阅读说明：本技术 用于游乐园骑乘设施的松散物品管理系统和方法 (Loose item management system and method for amusement park rides ) 是由 A.K.齐尔科夫斯基 M.菲利普斯 J.尤林 A.卡塔尼亚 S.C.布卢姆 M.P.琼斯 于 2018-05-21 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种系统包括：包括可以容纳和存储物品的容器的便携式锁存装置、以及耦合到该容器并且可以将该容器锁定以阻止对经存储的物品的访问的第一锁。第一锁包括可以接收无线信号的检测器,并且接收无线信号导致第一锁锁定或解锁。该系统还包括耦合到容器的约束装置,并且包括第二锁。第二锁可以将便携式锁存装置固定到游乐园骑乘设施的骑乘者。(A system comprising: a portable latching device including a container that can receive and store items, and a first lock coupled to the container and that can lock the container to prevent access to the stored items. The first lock includes a detector that can receive a wireless signal, and receiving the wireless signal causes the first lock to lock or unlock. The system also includes a restraint device coupled to the container and includes a second lock. The second lock may secure the portable latching device to a rider of the amusement park ride.)

1. A system, comprising:

a portable latching device comprising a container configured to receive and store an item;

a first lock coupled to the container and configured to lock the container to prevent access to the stored items, wherein the first lock comprises a detector configured to receive a wireless signal, and wherein receiving the wireless signal causes the first lock to lock or unlock; and

a restraint device coupled to the container and comprising a second lock, wherein the second lock is configured to secure the portable latching device to a rider of an amusement park ride.

2. The system of claim 1, comprising:

a locking control point comprising a first transmitter for transmitting a wireless signal to cause the first lock of the portable latching device to lock, wherein the locking control point is located in front of a loading area for a ride vehicle; and

an unlock actuation station comprising a second transmitter configured to transmit a second wireless signal to unlock the portable latching device.

3. The system of claim 1, comprising a transmitter disposed on a key comprising a wristband, and wherein the transmitter is a Radio Frequency (RF) chip configured to transmit a wireless signal, and wherein the detector is a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the restraining device comprises a cord having a first end coupled to a first side of the container and a second end removably coupled to a second side of the container opposite the first side, forming a loop, and wherein the second lock is coupled to the second end.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the restraint device comprises: a first strap coupled to the container and terminating in a first end, and a second strap coupled to the container and terminating in a second end, wherein the first end comprises a first portion of the second lock and the second end comprises a second portion of the second lock, and wherein the second portion is configured to be removably coupled to the first portion to secure the portable latching device to a rider.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the first lock is communicatively coupled to the second lock, and wherein the second lock comprises a transmitter.

7. The system of claim 1 wherein the portable latching device comprises a second container coupled to the container via a retractable lanyard having a spool coupled to the container.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the spool comprises a sensor and a third lock configured to lock the spool.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the sensor is configured to receive a wireless signal and actuate a retraction mode of the third lock prior to a rider riding vehicle.

10. A system, comprising:

a portable latching device comprising:

a container configured to hold and store an item, wherein the container comprises a first lock configured to lock the container to restrict access to the stored item, wherein the first lock comprises a detector configured to receive a wireless signal configured to lock or unlock the first lock; and

a ride vehicle comprising a retaining rod configured to be reversibly coupled to the portable latching device, the retaining rod comprising a locking mechanism configured to switch between a fixed and a non-fixed configuration based on a locking signal received from a controller.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to detect coupling of the portable latching device to the holding bar to activate switching of the locking mechanism to the secured configuration.

12. The system of claim 10, wherein the ride vehicle comprises one or more sensors configured to detect the portable latching device.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the ride vehicle is configured to generate a signal that there is no unsecured portable latching device on the ride vehicle.

14. The system of claim 10, wherein the portable latching device comprises a material configured to change a degree of transparency based on a signal from the controller.

15. A system, comprising:

a portable latching device comprising a first pouch and a second pouch, the second pouch configured to move relative to the first pouch, wherein each pouch is configured to contain and store an item;

a first lock coupled to the first pocket and configured to lock the pocket to prevent access to stored items, wherein the first lock comprises a detector configured to receive a wireless signal configured to lock or unlock the first lock;

a spool disposed on the first bag and comprising a retractable lanyard coupled to the second bag, wherein the retractable lanyard is configured to release and retract the second bag to allow the second bag to move relative to the first bag; and

a restraint device coupled to the first pocket and comprising a second lock, wherein the second lock is configured to secure the portable latching device to a rider of an amusement park ride.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the spool comprises a third lock and a sensor, wherein the sensor is configured to receive a second wireless signal and activate a retraction mode of the third lock, and prevent movement of the second bag away from the first bag based on the received second wireless signal.

17. The system of claim 15, wherein the second lock comprises a transmitter.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the transmitter is a Radio Frequency (RF) chip configured to transmit the wireless signal, and wherein the detector is a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag.

19. The system of claim 15, wherein the restraint device comprises a waist belt coupled to the first pocket and including a first end having a first portion of the second lock and a second end having a second portion of the second lock, wherein the first portion is configured to be coupled to the second portion to secure the portable latching device to a rider.

20. The system of claim 15, comprising:

a lock control point for actuating a first lock of the portable latching device prior to a loading area of a ride vehicle of an amusement park ride; and

an unlock actuation station configured to unlock the portable latching device at a location between an unloading zone of a ride and an exit of an amusement park ride.

Background

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of amusement parks. More particularly, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods for managing guest loose items (losse items) during an amusement park experience.

Various amusement park rides (riders) have been created to provide unique motion and visual experiences for riders. For example, the subject ride may be implemented with a single rider or multi-rider vehicle traveling along a path or utilizing a motion base. Changes in speed or direction of the vehicle often cause excitement as the vehicle moves along a ride path or follows a motion routine. However, the associated motion may also cause loose items (e.g., mobile phones, cameras, keys, purses, etc.) occupied by the rider to come out of control of the ride. Once the rider loses control of the loose item during riding, the loose item may be lost, it may be damaged, or it may cause damage to equipment, etc.

Traditionally, loose items are stored in a latch (locker) to avoid problems associated with bringing them onto rides at amusement parks. However, the cost of building a latch device is often high and the latch device permanently occupies valuable space within the amusement park. Additionally, riders are often reluctant to place their loose items (e.g., mobile phones, wallets, keys, and cameras) in a latching device. In addition, riders may use their mobile phones to display ride passes (e.g., passes with priority) scanned at the ride entrance. Thus, the rider's mobile phone may need to be readily available before loading the ride. Riders often prefer to hold their loose items on their person so that they can use them while waiting in a queue, among other reasons. Thus, it is now recognized that there is a need for an improved loose-items storage system that allows guests to have control over their loose items during operation of an amusement park ride.

Disclosure of Invention

The following outlines certain embodiments that are commensurate in scope with the present disclosure. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but rather these embodiments are intended only to provide a brief summary of certain disclosed embodiments. Indeed, the present disclosure may encompass a variety of forms similar to or different from the embodiments set forth below.

According to one embodiment, a system comprises: a portable latching device including a container that can receive and store items, and a first lock coupled to the container and that can lock the container to prevent access to the stored items. The first lock includes a detector that can receive a wireless signal, and receiving the wireless signal causes the first lock to lock or unlock. The system also includes a restraint device coupled to the container and includes a second lock. The second lock may secure the portable latching device to a rider of the amusement park ride.

According to a second embodiment, a system includes a portable latching device that includes a container that can hold and store an item. The container includes a first lock that can lock the container to restrict access to stored items, and the first lock includes a detector that can receive a wireless signal that can lock or unlock the first lock. The system also includes a ride vehicle having a retaining bar that can be reversibly coupled to the portable latching device. The retention bar includes a locking mechanism that can be switched between a fixed and a non-fixed configuration based on a locking signal received from the controller.

According to a third embodiment, a system includes a portable latching device including a first pocket and a second pocket configured to move relative to the first pocket. Each bag may contain and store an item. The system also includes a first lock coupled to the first pocket and operable to lock the pocket from access to the stored items. The first lock includes a detector that can receive a wireless signal that can lock or unlock the first lock. The system also includes a spool (reel) disposed on the first bag and having a retractable lanyard (langard) coupled to the second bag. The retractable lanyard can release and retract the second bag to allow the second bag to move relative to the first bag. The system also includes a restraint device coupled to the first bag and including a second lock. The second lock may secure the portable latching device to a rider of the amusement park ride.

Drawings

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

fig. 1 is a schematic representation of an amusement park ride in which riders of the amusement park ride are provided with portable latching devices for managing loose items at the entrances of the amusement park ride, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a schematic representation of the amusement park ride of FIG. 1, wherein an exit of the amusement park ride includes an unlocking system for unlocking a portable latching device used by a rider to allow the rider to retrieve loose items, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 3 is a flow chart for managing loose items for the amusement park ride of fig. 1 and 2, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of a portable latching device having a locking mechanism that prevents access to loose items stored by a rider during operation of the amusement park ride of FIG. 1, wherein the locking mechanism includes a zipper and an actuatable lock in an unlocked configuration, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a schematic view of the portable latching device of FIG. 4 with the zipper and actuatable lock of the locking mechanism in a locked configuration, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism of FIG. 5, wherein the zipper includes a protrusion coupled to a locking pin of the actuatable lock, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a portable latching device kit and storage system, wherein the latching device pouch kit includes a pouch lock activated by a locking/unlocking apparatus worn by a rider, and the storage system includes a storage rack having a compartment for storing and securing the portable latching device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of the portable latching device of FIG. 7, wherein the pocket lock includes a finger pad for locking and unlocking the portable latching device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a storage system for storing and securing portable latching devices, wherein the storage system includes a storage rack having peg boards (peg boards) and rotates about an axis, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10A is an illustration of a storage system for holding and securing a portable latching device, wherein the storage system includes a receptacle (receptacle) that receives a complementary rotation feature of the portable latching device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10B is an illustration of the storage system of FIG. 10A and a portable latching device having complementary rotational features on a rear surface, wherein the complementary rotational features are aligned with a receptacle of the storage system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 10C is an illustration of the storage system of fig. 10A and the portable latching device of fig. 10B with complementary rotation features inserted into the receptacle and rotated about an axis such that the complementary rotation features are not aligned with the receptacle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a schematic view of the amusement park ride of FIG. 1 wherein the storage system is mobile and includes a transport system having movable storage racks for transporting the portable latching devices from the loading station to the unloading station, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a schematic view of the amusement park ride of FIG. 1 wherein the storage system is mobile and includes a transport system with a conveyor belt for transporting the portable latching device from the loading station to the unloading station, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a schematic view of a portion of a ride vehicle of the amusement park ride of FIG. 1, wherein the seat of the ride vehicle includes an integrated storage rack having a locking system for securing a portable latching device to the ride vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 14 is a schematic view of the ride-on vehicle of fig. 13, where the locking system includes a pair of brackets coupled to complementary coupling features on the portable latching device and a sensor that activates a lock of the locking system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a schematic view of a rider wearing a wearable latch device bag including a bag for storing loose items and a restraining device for coupling the wearable latch device bag to the rider, the restraining device and bag each having an actuatable restraining lock, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 is a schematic view of the wearable latching device pouch of FIG. 15 with the actuatable restraining latch including a buckle having a first connector on a first end of the restraining device and a second connector on a second end of the restraining device, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is an embodiment of the wearable latching device pouch of FIG. 15 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 is an embodiment of the wearable latching device pouch of FIG. 15 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 is an embodiment of the wearable latching device pouch of FIG. 15 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 is a schematic view of the wearable latching device pouch of FIG. 15 with a phone box and a retractable lanyard according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 is a schematic view of the wearable latching device pouch of FIG. 15 with a phone box and a retractable lanyard according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

figure 22 is a schematic view of an entertainment system having a plurality of latch device pockets nested within one another, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to systems and methods for managing loose items in a manner that facilitates riders to control their items during queuing times of an amusement park ride while also preventing access to the items while the riders are on the ride. For example, the disclosed systems and methods include a portable latching device (e.g., container, bag, pouch, etc.) that riders can use to store their loose items. Portable latching devices allow riders to hold and access their loose items during the queuing time of the ride. Further, the present embodiments facilitate controlled access to items stored in the portable latching device to avoid inadvertent or intentional circumvention of controls for blocking loose items on the ride by limiting access to the locking mechanism for securing the rider's items. For example, the portable latching device may include a locking mechanism that, once activated, may prevent a rider from accessing loose items stored in the portable latching device during operation of the amusement park ride. The locking mechanism may be activated at any time prior to the start of the amusement park ride to secure and prevent access to the rider's loose items while the rider is enjoying the amusement park ride. Once the amusement park ride is finished, the locking mechanism may be deactivated to allow riders to access and/or retrieve their loose items from the portable latching device. In this way, riders may have control over their loose items during queuing times and access to them during operation of the amusement park ride without access.

Fig. 1 illustrates an embodiment of an amusement ride 10 that uses a portable latching device to store loose items of riders during operation of the amusement ride 10. In the illustrated embodiment, amusement ride 10 includes dispense points 12 along a line of amusement ride 10 for providing riders 14 with portable latching devices 16, the portable latching devices 16 securing loose items 20 belonging to riders 14. The dispense point 12 may be located at the entrance 18, at a loading station, or at any other location between the entrance 18 and the loading station of the amusement park ride 10. In addition to the dispensing point 12, the amusement park ride 10 includes a control point 24, the control point 24 being used to monitor the storage of loose items 20 within the portable latching device 16. In the illustrated embodiment, one or more personnel 28 may be positioned at the dispensing point 12 to monitor the loose-goods 20 and/or provide the rider 14 with a portable latching device 16 for storing the loose-goods 20. The dispense point 12 may be positioned before a control point 24 (e.g., a metal detector) of the amusement park ride 10. However, in other embodiments, the distribution point 12 and the control point 24 may be located within the same location or may overlap. As used herein, control point 24 is intended to represent the following location: in this position, verification occurs that the loose item is properly stored and secured within the portable latching device 16.

In some embodiments, one or more staff members 28 may dispense the portable latching device 16 to the rider 14 immediately prior to conducting the ride/play entertainment experience. For example, the dispense point 12 may immediately precede or substantially overlap a loading station of the amusement park ride 10. As used herein, "loading station" is intended to mean an area of a ride vehicle in which rider 14 rides on an amusement park ride. In one embodiment, one or more personnel 28 may dispense the portable latching device 16 about 20 or 30 feet (about 6-9 meters) before the control point 24 or lock point. However, the portable latching device 16 may be distributed to the rider 14 at any other location within the amusement park (e.g., at the entrance 18 or to an entrance to the amusement park). As used herein, "lock point" is intended to mean the point: at this point, the portable latching device is locked and cannot be opened to access the stored loose items. A "lock point" may refer to a location (e.g., all items are locked outside of a certain physical location), a point in time (e.g., all items are locked after a certain time), or a point in time (e.g., all items are locked before a certain event, such as the start of a vehicle movement). In other embodiments, the rider 14 may purchase a portable latching device 16 that is themed and therefore already occupied by the rider 14 for use in accordance with the present embodiment.

As previously discussed, the rider 14 may be provided with a portable latching device 16 at the dispensing point 12 prior to passing through the control point 24. In certain embodiments, the dispensing point 12 may include a scanner 30 (e.g., a metal detector or other suitable scanner) that detects the presence of the loose-goods 20. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the scanner 30 is a handheld scanner that may be used by one or more of the staff members 28 to scan and detect loose items 20 on the rider 14. In other embodiments, the scanner 30 may be a stationary or stationary scanner through which the rider 14 may walk. The scanner 30 alerts one or more staff members 28 to: the rider 14 has loose items 20 on their individual. Thus, one or more staff members 28 provide the rider 14 with the portable latching device 16 and instruct the rider 14 to place their loose item 20 into the portable latching device 16. The rider 14 may undergo additional scans under the scanner 30 to detect additional loose items 20. Once the rider's loose item 20 is disposed within the portable latching device 16 and no other items are determined to be present on the rider 14, the portable latching device 16 can be locked by activating the locking mechanism. As discussed in detail below, after the amusement park ride 10 is completed and when the rider 14 has occupied the portable latch device 16 storing their loose items 20, the locking mechanism may not be unlocked without receiving the transmitted lock deactivation signal.

After placing and locking loose-article 20 in portable latching device 16, rider 14 may proceed to control point 24 where one or more personnel 28 may verify that loose-article 20 is locked and secured within portable latching device 16. In some embodiments, as the rider 14 enjoys the amusement park ride 10, the rider 14 may continue to place their portable latching device 16 within the storage system 34, the storage system 34 holding the portable latching device 16. The storage system 34 may be positioned at any point along the queue of the amusement park ride 10. In particular, it may be desirable to locate the storage system 34 at or near the loading/section of the amusement park ride 10 in order to facilitate access to the storage system 34 for storage and retrieval of the portable latching devices 16. In other embodiments, the portable latching device 16 may be wearable or configured to be attached to a ride seat of the amusement park ride 10 such that the rider 14 may have the portable latching device 16 in their possession during operation of the amusement park ride 10. As such, storage system 34 may be located within the ride vehicle itself or omitted, thereby saving costs associated with manufacturing storage system 34.

In embodiments in which the storage system 34 is used, upon completion of the amusement park ride 10, the rider 14 may exit the amusement park ride 10 and collect the portable latching device 16 from the storage system 34. The locking mechanism of the portable latching device 16 may be deactivated, thereby unlocking the portable latching device 16 and allowing the rider 14 to retrieve the loose items 20 stored in the portable latching device 16. As previously discussed, when the ride 10 is complete and the rider 14 is in possession of the portable latch device 16 storing their loose items 20, the locking mechanism may be unlocked upon receipt of the signal. For example, fig. 2 illustrates an embodiment of an amusement park ride 10 having an RFID door 40, the RFID door 40 communicatively coupled to the portable latching device 16 and transmitting a signal to unlock the portable latching device 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the RFID door 40 is located at an exit 42 of the amusement park ride 10. However, the RFID door 40 may be located at any other location between the unloading section and the exit 42. RFID door 40 transmits a deactivation signal 44, which deactivation signal 44 unlocks a locking mechanism on portable latching device 16, thereby allowing rider 14 to access loose item 20 stored in portable latching device 16. In some embodiments, amusement park ride 10 may not include RFID doors 40. Rather, one or more personnel 28 may use a key fob or other electronic key to deactivate the locking mechanism of the portable latching device 16. By deactivating the locking mechanism of the portable latching device 16 only after the rider 14 enjoys the amusement park ride 10, the rider 14 is prevented from accessing the loose item 20, which otherwise could be inadvertently separated from the rider 14 during operation of the amusement park ride 10. Furthermore, by implementing bulk item storage as a portable latching device 16, loading and unloading is more efficient. The rider 14 simply holds the portable latching device 16, which portable latching device 16 can be opened and accessed when the rider 14 is idle or when walking toward an exit without having to stop at a fixed location within the amusement park ride 10.

Fig. 3 is a flow chart 46 of an embodiment of the amusement park ride 10, the amusement park ride 10 using the portable latching device 16 to store loose items 20 of riders. As previously discussed, the rider 14 may be provided with a portable latch 16 at the dispensing point 12 and instructed to store their loose items 20 within the portable latch 16. The rider 14 is scanned for additional loose items 20 using the scanner 30 before the portable latching device 16 is locked via, for example, the locking actuator 45. Once the portable latching device 16 is locked, the rider 14 continues to store the locked portable latching device 16 in the storage system 34, as illustrated by arrow 47. After storing the locked portable latching device 16, the rider proceeds to the loading station 49 of the amusement park ride 10. After the amusement park ride 10 is completed, rider 14 may retrieve the locked portable latch device 16 from storage system 34, as indicated by arrow 51, and proceed to a second locking actuator 53 (e.g., RFID door 40) to unlock the portable latch device 16 prior to exiting amusement park ride 10 at exit 42.

As previously discussed, the rider 14 may use the portable latching device 16 to store and secure the loose items 20 prior to enjoying the amusement park ride 10. The portable latching device 16 may include features that prevent the rider 14 from retrieving the loose item 20 from the portable latching device 16 after the portable latching device 16 is locked. In this manner, loose items 20 may be contained within portable latching device 16 during operation of amusement park ride 10. As discussed in further detail below with reference to fig. 15-21, portable latching device 16 may be a wearable latching device that rider 14 may bring to amusement park ride 10. Thus, the rider 14 can always have their loose items 20. Fig. 4 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a portable latching device 16 that a rider 14 may use to store and secure loose items 20. According to the present embodiment, the portable latch device 16 represents various types of portable latch devices. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in fig. 4, the portable latching device 16 may comprise or be implemented as a lockable container, illustrated as a pocket 48 (e.g., bag, container, case, bag, etc.) for storing loose items 20 (e.g., a mobile phone, camera, key, hat, purse, or any other suitable loose item). It should be understood that loose item 20 is an item that can be separated from rider 14 and, as provided herein, may still be referred to as loose item 20 when contained and enclosed in bag 48. In some embodiments, bag 48, when sealed or locked, stores loose-goods 20 in a completely enclosed manner such that rider 14 cannot directly contact or access loose-goods 20. The pouch 48 includes a sealed end 50 and a closable end 52, the closable end 52 having a locking mechanism 56, the locking mechanism 56 configured to open (fig. 4) and close (fig. 5) the closable end 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism 56 includes a lock 58 (e.g., an actuatable lock), a zipper 60, and zipper teeth 62 around a perimeter 64 of the closable end 52.

Bag 48 may include or be implemented as a bag, container, or any other suitable enclosure that may be used to hold and secure loose-goods 20. The bag 48 may be made of a material such as fabric, plastic, or both. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the pocket 48 may be transparent so that the rider 14 may view and/or use the loose-goods 20 stored in the portable latching device 16. For example, the pocket 48 may enable the rider 14 to interact with a touch screen or buttons of an electronic device (e.g., mobile phone, camera, etc.) stored in the portable latching device 16 through the intermediate material of the pocket 48. During queuing and/or operation of the amusement park ride 10, the rider 14 may access a camera (e.g., on a mobile phone) through the portable latch device 16 to take a photograph or video while the portable latch device 16 is locked. In some embodiments, the portable latching device 16 may be capable of switching between modes to prevent or allow access to loose items 20 (e.g., cameras, mobile phones, etc.) secured within the pocket 48. For example, in areas where no pictures are allowed, transmission of electronics to the bag 48 may cause the bag 48 to change an area from transparent to opaque (e.g., with liquid crystal). Thus, the rider 14 does not have access to the loose item 20, particularly the electronic devices that may be used to take pictures or videos.

As previously discussed, the portable latching device 16 includes a locking mechanism 56 for securing and locking the loose item 20 within the pocket 48 to prevent the loose item 20 from being removed from the portable latching device 16 while the rider 14 is enjoying the amusement park ride 10. For example, as shown in fig. 5, after the rider 14 places the loose-goods 20 in the pocket 48, the locking mechanism 56 may be used to close the closable end 52. Locking mechanism 56 may be configured such that it cannot be unlocked by rider 14 until portable latching device 16 is brought to a particular location (e.g., RFID door 40) away from amusement park ride 10 or the ride vehicle of amusement park ride 10 reaches an unloading zone. As shown in the embodiment of fig. 4-6, zipper 60 includes at least one tab 70 that engages a complementary groove 72 of lock 58 to close closable end 52 and secure loose-goods 20 within bag 48. For example, after rider 14 stores loose-goods 20 in pocket 48, rider 14 may apply a pulling force to zipper 60, thereby moving zipper 60 in a direction 78 toward lock 58. The zipper 60 may include one or more features to facilitate moving the zipper 60 in the direction 78. In the illustrated embodiment, the zipper 60 includes a zipper pull 80 (pull), which the rider 14 or other personnel (e.g., one or more of the staff members 28) can grasp and apply tension to move the zipper 60 in the direction 78. As shown in fig. 5, pulling the zipper 60 in the direction 78 enables the coupling of the zipper teeth 62 to seal (i.e., close) the closable end 52.

Once the zipper 60 reaches the lock 58, at least one of the projections 70 is inserted into the groove 72. At least one of the projections 70 includes a notch 82 that engages a locking pin 84 (e.g., a spring-loaded locking pin) of the lock 58. For example, fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment of the locking mechanism 56 in a locked configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the projections 70 is engaged with the lock 58 via a notch 82 and a locking pin 84. A portion 86 of the locking pin 84 is disposed within the recess 82, thereby securing the zipper 60 to the lock 58. As previously discussed, the locking pin 84 may be a spring loaded locking pin. Thus, as the at least one projection 70 is inserted into the groove 72, the end surface 92 of the one or more projections 70 may push the locking pin 84 in the direction 94 to allow the at least one projection 70 to continue to move in the direction 78 until the notch 82 is aligned with the locking pin 84. In some embodiments, at least one or more of the protrusions 70 may be tapered to facilitate pushing the locking pin 84 in the direction 94. Movement of the locking pin 84 in the direction 94 compresses the spring 95 of the locking pin 84. Once the notch 82 and locking pin 84 are aligned, the spring 95 biases the portion 86 of the locking pin 84 to snap or otherwise be inserted into the notch 82 to removably couple the zipper 60 and lock 58. In the locked configuration, the at least one projection 70 nests within the groove 72, and the side surface 96 of the zipper 60 abuts the abutment surface 98 of the lock 58. As should be noted, in some embodiments, the lock 58 may include at least one protrusion 70, and the zipper 60 may include a groove 72 and a locking pin 84. While the illustrated embodiment shows a zipper 60, it should be understood that other locks and implementations, such as mechanical locks, magnetic locks, etc., are contemplated in any of the disclosed embodiments.

The locking mechanism 56 also includes a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) feature 100, which RFID feature 100 may act as an electronic key to lock and unlock the locking mechanism 56. For example, the RFID feature 100 may be a receiver that receives the activation signal before the rider 14 enjoys the amusement park ride 10. For example, control point 24 may have a Radio Frequency (RF) chip that detects RFID feature 100 and transmits an activation signal to locking mechanism 56. Upon receiving the activation signal, the locking mechanism 56 may actuate the locking pin 84 and prevent movement of the locking pin 84 in the direction 94. By blocking the movement of the locking pin 84, the zipper 60 cannot be separated from the lock 58. In this manner, the rider 14 may not be able to remove the loose item 20 from the portable latching device 16 after passing the control point 24. While in the illustrated embodiment, the RFID feature 100 is shown as part of the lock 58, in other embodiments, the RFID feature 100 is part of the zipper 60. Further, the control point 24 RF chip can transmit a global (blanket) lock signal to all the portable latching devices 16 in range at the lock point. In other embodiments, the control point 24 RF chip may transmit a lock signal after handshaking communication (e.g., detection) of each portable latching device 16.

After the amusement park ride 10 is completed, the portable latch device 16 may be unlocked at any point. For example, once ride 10 is complete and rider 14 retrieves portable latching device 16 from storage system 34, RFID feature 100 may receive a deactivation signal transmitted by RFID gate 40 of amusement park ride 10. For example, the RFID door 40 may include an RFID chip that detects the RFID feature 100 and transmits a deactivation signal to the RFID feature 100. In response to the detected deactivation signal 44, the locking mechanism 56 may unlock the locking pin 84. Thus, by offsetting the locking pin 84 in the direction 94, the portion 86 of the locking pin 84 may be released from the notch 82, thereby releasing the zipper 60 from the lock 58. Once the locking pin 84 is moved from the closed position (e.g., a position in which the portion 94 is within the recess 85) to the open position (e.g., a position in which the portion 94 is not within the recess 84), the rider 14 or other person may pull the zipper 60 in a direction 104 substantially opposite the direction 78, thereby separating the zipper 60 from the lock 58 and decoupling the zipper teeth 62. Thus, the closable end 52 is opened and the rider 14 can retrieve their loose items 20 from the pocket 48.

In certain embodiments, the locking mechanism 56 may be powered by one or more batteries 108. Thus, the lock 58 may include a cavity 106 sized to fit one or more batteries 108. By way of non-limiting example, the one or more batteries 108 may include lead-acid batteries, lithium ion batteries, nickel cadmium batteries, nickel zinc batteries, or any other suitable batteries that may be used to power the locking mechanism 56.

Fig. 7 provides another example of a portable latching device 16 that a rider 14 may use to store loose items 20 during operation of the amusement park ride 10. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the portable latching device 16 includes a locking ring 120, a ring lock 122, and a bag lock 124 coupled to the bag 48. The locking ring 120 extends from a first side 126 to a second side 128 of the portable latching device 16. After the rider 14 secures the loose item 20 within the portable latching device 16, the locking ring 120 may be used to secure the portable latching device 16 to the storage system 34.

It should be noted that the locking ring 120 is an example of one of the various locking features according to the present embodiment. Thus, while the particular embodiment illustrates and describes a locking ring, the locking ring 120 may be replaced with other locking features according to the present embodiment. Similarly, in certain embodiments, the portable latching device 16 may be replaced by a different container (e.g., a box) that employs a corresponding locking feature (e.g., a box lock). The pocket 48 may be sized to accommodate a particular device (e.g., a particular smartphone type) or various items (e.g., keys and purses). Different types of portable latching devices 16, such as different sizes, colors, shapes, and materials, may be available.

As previously discussed, the portable latching device 16 may be imparted to the rider 14 at any point prior to the start of the ride vehicle motion or amusement park ride 10. The portable latching devices 16 may be distributed in a queue, or in some embodiments, the portable latching devices 16 may be distributed once the rider 14 is loaded into the vehicle. Once rider 14 stores their loose-goods 20 into portable latching device 16, rider 14 may lock portable latching device 16 by activating bag lock 124 and secure loose-goods 20 within portable latching device 16. In certain embodiments, the portable latching device 16 may be part of a kit that includes a locking/unlocking apparatus 130 that activates and deactivates the bag lock 124. The locking/unlocking device 130 may be under the control of the rider 14 such that access to the portable latching device 16 is limited only to the rider 14 or a person designated by the rider 14. As non-limiting examples, the locking/unlocking device 130 may be a wrist band, collar, clip, ring, glove, or the like, dedicated to the portable latching device 16 given to the rider 14. In some embodiments, the locking/unlocking device 130 may be coupled to a rider's park ticket and/or ride check-in pass. Thus, the locking/unlocking device 130 may be always in possession of the rider 14 during operation of the amusement park ride 10. The rider 14 may place the locking/unlocking device 130 in close proximity (e.g., abutting, inset, adjacent) to the bag lock 124 to lock or unlock the bag lock 124. In certain embodiments, the locking/unlocking device 130 may include a low electromagnetic frequency transmitter. For example, in certain embodiments, the locking/unlocking device 130 may include a Radio Frequency (RF) chip 132, the Radio Frequency (RF) chip 132 communicatively coupled to a corresponding RFID tag 134 associated with the bag lock 124. RF chip 132 may send one or more signals to RFID tag 134 to enable locking and unlocking of bag lock 124.

The locking ring 120 allows the rider 14 to secure the portable latching device 16 to the storage system 34 (e.g., rack, storage compartment) via the locking ring 120. For example, a string 140 corresponding to the locking ring 120 is coupled to the ring lock 122 to secure the portable locking pouch 16 to the storage system 34. As discussed in further detail below with reference to fig. 9, the storage system 34 may include a pouch attachment feature that facilitates securing the portable latching device 16 to the storage system 34. Although illustrated in fig. 7 as separate locking mechanisms (e.g., the ring lock 122 and the bag lock 124), in some embodiments, a single locking mechanism is shared for both the bag access point (e.g., the bag lock 124) and the locking ring 120. For example, the string 140 of the locking ring 120 may be passed through the receptacle and then engaged with the bag lock 124, and then the bag lock 124 may be locked to not only secure the locking ring 120 in place but also lock the bag 48 closed.

In some embodiments, the portable latching device 16 may include a finger pad for locking and unlocking the ring lock 122, the bag lock 124, or both. The finger pads register the fingerprints of the rider 14 assigned to the portable latching device 16. In this manner, no one other than the rider 14 assigned to the portable latching device 16 can retrieve the loose items 20 stored in the pockets 48 and/or the portable latching device 16 from the storage system 34. Fig. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the portable latch device 16 having a finger pad 146 on the pocket 48, the finger pad 146 may be used to lock and unlock the portable latch device 16. For example, the rider 14 may activate and deactivate the bag latch 124 by pressing their finger against the finger pad 146. The finger pad 146 may include a memory 148 that stores the fingerprint of the rider 14. When the finger pad 146 recognizes the rider's fingerprint, the pocket lock 124 is activated to lock the pocket lock 124 and secure the loose item 20 in the portable latch 16, or is deactivated to unlock the pocket lock 124 and allow the rider 14 to retrieve the item from the portable latch 16.

Returning to fig. 7, once rider 14 secures loose item 20 in portable latching device 16, rider 14 may store portable latching device 16 in storage system 34 corresponding to amusement park ride 10. In certain embodiments, the storage system 34 may include a rack having a locking mechanism that secures the portable latching device 16 to the storage system 34. The locking mechanism may be controlled by the rider 14 such that the portable latching device 16 assigned to the rider 14 may not be removed from the storage system 34 by another rider or park guest. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the storage system 34 can include a storage rack 150 having a plurality of compartments 152, the plurality of compartments 152 can be used to store and secure the portable latching devices 16 while the rider 14 is enjoying the amusement park ride 10. As non-limiting examples, the plurality of compartments 152 may include a sorting rack (cubby), a hook, a shelf (shelf), and the like. The plurality of compartments 152 may be arranged in a series of rows and columns, where each row and/or column may be assigned to a ride vehicle of amusement park ride 10. In some embodiments, the portable latching device 16 may be assigned to a particular compartment of the plurality of compartments 152. The plurality of compartments 152 may each be marked (e.g., serialized) such that each portable latching device 16 and locking/unlocking apparatus 130 is assigned to a respective compartment of the plurality of compartments 152. Each of the plurality of compartments 152 may include a storage lock 156, and the storage lock 156 may be activated and deactivated by the locking/unlocking device 130 in a manner similar to the bag lock 124 to release the portable latching device 16 from the compartment. In this manner, the portable latching device 16 may not be removed from the respective compartment 152 by another rider or park guest.

After attaching the portable latching device 16 to a respective compartment of the plurality of compartments 152, the rider 14 may activate the pouch and storage locks 124, 156, respectively, to secure the portable latching device 16 to the storage rack 150. Other storage shelves may include different engagement features (see fig. 9 and 10A). Once rider 14 has locked portable latching device 16 and stored portable latching device 16, rider 14 may board a corresponding ride vehicle of amusement park ride 10. The rider 14 holds the locking/unlocking device 130 during operation of the amusement park ride 10, which may provide comfort to the rider, as the rider may feel less concerned that their loose items 20 may be removed from the amusement park ride 10 without being aware of them. After completing the ride experience, the rider 14 may continue to unlock the bag and storage locks 124, 156, respectively, to retrieve the loose items 20 from the portable latching device 16. Once the rider retrieves their item from the portable latching device 16, the rider 14 may place the portable latching device 16 in a collection bin that may collect the portable latching device 16 and allow for reuse by other riders of the amusement park ride 10.

The storage system 34 may be stationary or mobile. That is, storage system 34 may be permanently fixed to a location within amusement park ride 10, or may be moved from one location to another within amusement park ride 10 (e.g., from a loading station to an unloading station). For example, the storage system 34 may be located at a central location near the loading and unloading stations of the amusement park ride 10. The rider 14 may access the storage system 34 to store and secure the portable latching device 16 prior to riding on the ride-on vehicle. Similarly, rider 14 may access storage station 34 to retrieve stored items after unloading from the ride vehicle. In one embodiment, the plurality of compartments 152 associated with the storage station 34 may include a storage side facing the loading station and a pickup side facing the unloading station. For example, each of the plurality of compartments 152 may include a first door on the storage side and a second door on the pickup side, each door having a lock. In this manner, the rider 14 may access the storage side via a first door prior to riding on the ride vehicle (e.g., from a loading queue upstream of a loading point) and may access the pickup side via a second door from an unloading station (e.g., from an exit queue) to alleviate congestion at the storage system 34. The double-sided latch may be mechanically actuated so that the door opens for guests to place items in the loading side during ride loading, and then closes during operation of the ride 10. Similarly, when the rider exits, the door may be actuated to open from the unloading side during unloading.

In certain embodiments, the plurality of compartments 152 include pouch attachment features (e.g., pegs, hooks, etc.) that may be used to hang and secure the portable latching device 16 to the storage system 34. For example, the rider 14 may attach the locking ring 120 (or some other locking mechanism) to a bag attachment feature associated with a respective compartment of the plurality of compartments 152. Fig. 9 is an exemplary embodiment of the storage system 34 wherein the storage shelves 150 are peg boards 157 or other similar boards that may facilitate mounting and securing the portable latching device 16 to the storage system 34. The peg plate 157 may include a plurality of pegs 158 (e.g., protrusions) or any other suitable support (e.g., hooks, latches, etc.) that may engage the locking ring 120 of the pocket to retain and secure the portable latching device 16 to the storage rack 150. Each peg 158 extending from a surface 159 of the storage rack 150 may be assigned a number or other identifier corresponding to a particular portable latching device 16. The rider 14 may secure the portable latching device 16 to the respective peg 158, as previously discussed with reference to fig. 7.

In some embodiments, the multiple compartments 152 or some other storage system 34 may rotate such that there is only a single door or access point for a particular rider. For example, the storage rack 150 may include pilings 157 (or other storage features) on both sides and rotate about a motor-driven spindle so that the same items placed on the storage rack 150 at the entry point of the ride 10 are accessible at the exit point of the ride 10. For example, as shown in fig. 9, the storage system 34 includes a spindle 162, the spindle 162 configured to rotate about an axis 164 to facilitate storage and retrieval of the portable latching device 16 by the rider 14. The storage system 34 may be positioned between the loading and unloading stations of the amusement park ride 10 with the first side 166 of the storage rack 150 facing the loading station and the second side 168 of the storage rack 150 facing the unloading station. In this manner, a first group of riders at the loading station may lock and secure their respective portable latching devices 16 to the retaining member 158 on the first side 164, and a second group of riders at the unloading station may unlock and retrieve their respective portable latching devices 16 from the second side 168. Once the second group of riders has unlocked and retrieved their respective portable latching devices 16, the spindle 162 of the storage rack 150 may be rotated about axis 164 as indicated by arrow 170 to allow the group of riders at the loading station to lock and secure their respective portable latching devices 16 to the retaining member 158 located on the second side 168 of the storage rack 150 and to allow the first group of riders to unlock and retrieve their respective portable latching devices 16 after enjoying the amusement park ride 10. Rotation of spindle 162 may be accomplished manually or mechanically. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the spindle 162 is coupled to a motor 172, and the motor 172 rotates the spindle 162 about the shaft 164. However, in certain embodiments, one or more workers 128 may manually rotate the storage rack 150. In some embodiments, each individual storage region or subset of storage regions (e.g., latch or stub section) may be rotated about a respective axis to achieve similar results.

FIG. 10A illustrates an alternative embodiment of the storage system 34, the storage system 34 having a coupling feature configured to couple to a complementary feature on the portable latching device 16. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in fig. 10A, the storage system 34 includes a wall 176, the wall 176 having a specially shaped (e.g., elongated) receptacle 178, the receptacle 178 configured to receive a complementary rotational locking feature associated with the portable latching device 16. In another example, fig. 10B is a schematic view of an embodiment of a storage system 34 that may be used to secure a portable latching device 16 via a rotational locking feature 180. In the illustrated embodiment, the rotational locking feature 180 includes a first bar 182 extending radially away from a surface 184 of the pocket 48 of the portable latching device 16, and a second bar 186 positioned perpendicular to the first bar 182. Second rod 186 is configured to rotate about an axis 190 of first rod 182 to move rotational locking feature 180 (fig. 10C) between the unlocked configuration and the locked configuration. As illustrated in fig. 10B, the sockets 178 on the front surface 192 of the wall 176 may be arranged to receive the rotational locking feature 180 in an aligned configuration (e.g., when unlocked, the rods 182, 186 of the rotational locking feature 180 are aligned in parallel). Once levers 182, 186 are disposed through socket 178, rotational locking feature 180 may be actuated (e.g., manually or electronically) such that second lever 186 is rotated relative to first lever 182 to move rotational locking feature 180 to the locked configuration and prevent extraction of portable latching device 16 from wall 176 until unlocked. For example, fig. 10C illustrates a back side 194 of the storage system 34, wherein the second rod 186 has been rotated about the axis 190, as indicated by arrow 196. As shown in fig. 10C, the second rod 186 is perpendicular to the widest dimension 200 of the socket 178. In this manner, the portable latching device 16 may be retained on the storage system 34. In other embodiments, different shapes (e.g., star, triangle, square, or character outline) may be used.

In certain embodiments, the storage system 34 may include a latch device that secures a plurality of portable latch devices 16. For example, once the rider actuates the locking mechanisms (e.g., locking mechanism 52, bag lock 124) for their respective portable latching devices 16, the rider 14 may place the locked portable latching devices 16 into the latching devices of the storage system 34. Each latch of storage system 34 may be associated with a ride vehicle of amusement park ride 10. Thus, once the locked portable latching devices 16 of each rider 14 assigned to the same ride vehicle are placed in the latching devices, one or more crews 28 or operators of the amusement park ride can lock the latching devices to secure the rider's portable latching devices 16 during operation of the amusement park ride 10. In some embodiments, the latching device may be automatically locked. For example, once all riders 14 are secured in the ride vehicle associated with the latch device, the control system may transmit a signal to the latch device to actuate the lock. In some embodiments, this may include detecting the presence of the portable latch 16 in a larger latch of the storage system 34 (e.g., via weight measurement or wireless communication). The control system may also unlock the latch device after the amusement park ride 10 experience is complete. Such as when the ride-on vehicle enters an unloading station, through an unlocked door, etc.

In some embodiments, the latching device may be located in a floor area or overhead area proximate to the ride vehicle, or in the ride vehicle itself (e.g., ride vehicle 226, see fig. 11). The latch can pop up from the floor or pop down from the roof and allow the rider 14 to put their belongings into the latch. After the rider 14 is properly seated and properly restrained, the latch can be retracted into the floor or roof, and then reopened when the ride returns and the rider 14 exits, which allows the rider to retrieve their belongings.

In some embodiments, the storage system may be mobile. That is, the storage system may include features to move the portable latching device 16 from one location to another within the amusement park ride 10. For example, after the portable latching device 16 is locked and secured to the storage system, the storage system may transport the portable latching device 16 from a loading station to an unloading station. The mobile storage system may allow riders to secure their assigned portable latching devices 16 to the storage system 34 at a loading station of the amusement park ride 10, which may be at a different location than the unloading station. For example, fig. 11 illustrates an embodiment of an amusement park ride 10 having a mobile storage system 210, the mobile storage system 210 transporting a portable latching device 16 from a loading station 212 to an unloading station 214. Mobile storage system 210 includes a transport system 218 that extends from a loading station 212 to an unloading station 214 of amusement park ride 10. The transport system 218 may house a storage rack 220 holding one or more portable latching devices 16 or may house a separate portable latching device 16. As rider 14 enjoys amusement park ride 10, transport system 218 moves rack 220 and/or separate portable latching device 16 from loading station 212 to unloading station 214.

For example, prior to rider 14 riding on ride vehicle 226, rider 14 may activate a locking mechanism (e.g., locking mechanism 56 or bag lock 124) to lock loose item 20 within portable latching device 16, as previously discussed. Once locked, the rider 14 or one or more of the crews 28 can secure the locked portable latching device 16 to the rack 220 at the loading station 212. After attachment of the portable latching device 16, the rider 14 may continue to board the ride vehicle 226 and enjoy the amusement park ride 10. The transport system 218 can transport the portable latching device 16 by moving the rack 220 in a direction 230 toward the unloading station 214. The conveyance system 218 may include a conveyor belt, a rail conveyance (railing) system, or any other suitable conveyance system that moves the portable latching device 16 from the loading station 212 to the unloading station 214. The transport system 218 may include retention features such as hooks, fasteners, connectors, etc. that support and secure the storage shelves 220 and/or portable latching devices 16 to the transport system 218.

In some embodiments, a portion of transport system 218 may be positioned below ride vehicle 226. This may be useful in the following embodiments: where loading station 212 of amusement park ride 10 is located on one side of ride vehicle 226 and unloading station 214 is positioned on the opposite side of ride vehicle 226. That is, the pocket storage section of transport system 218 (e.g., the section in which rider 14 secures portable latching device 16 to storage system 34) may be located on a loading side of ride vehicle 226 that is substantially opposite the unloading side of ride vehicle 226 and the pocket pick section (e.g., the section in which rider 14 retrieves portable latching device 16 after unloading from ride vehicle 226). As shown in fig. 11, transport system 218 may extend from loading station 212 to unloading station 214 below ride track 232 of amusement park ride 10 such that transport system 218 does not interfere with the operation of amusement park ride 10. Thus, the portable latching device 16 follows a path under the ride-on track 232 when being transported from the loading station 212 to the unloading station 214. In this manner, transport system 218 does not interfere with the trajectory of ride vehicle 226 during operation of amusement park ride 10.

In other embodiments, at least a portion of transport system 218 may be positioned above track 232 and ride vehicle 226. However, transport system 218 may be positioned at any other location that transports portable latching device 16 from loading station 212 to unloading station 214 and that does not interfere with movement of ride vehicle 226 along track 232 during operation of amusement park ride 10. Thus, once rider 14 unloads ride vehicle 226, rider 14 may retrieve the portable latching device 16 assigned to them at unloading station 214 and collect their loose items 20 from the portable latching device 16 at or near unloading station 214 before exiting ride 10. For example, a ride manager/worker (an employee of the amusement park) may remove the rack 220 and/or portable latching device 16 from the transport system 218 and position it in a designated location for pickup at the exit of the ride 10. In certain embodiments, the shelves 220 and/or portable latching devices 16 may be moved from the transport system 218 to a designated location for pickup by a mechanical system (e.g., robotic arm, etc.).

In other embodiments, loading station 212 and unloading station 214 of amusement park ride 10 may be located on the same side of ride vehicle 226. In this particular configuration, the rider enters and exits the ride vehicle 226 from the same side, as opposed to the different sides as illustrated in fig. 11. For example, fig. 12 illustrates an embodiment of amusement park ride 10 having loading station 212 and unloading station 214 positioned on the same side of ride vehicle 226 and ride track 232. In this particular embodiment, transport system 218 transports portable latching device 16 along a path that is parallel to at least a portion of track 232. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the transport system 220 includes a conveyor belt 236 that transports the portable latching device 16 in a direction 238 from a bag drop location 240 at the loading station 212 to a bag pick location 246 at the unloading station 214. Rider 14 may place their locked portable latching device 16 on the surface of conveyor belt 236 before riding on ride vehicle 226 at loading station 214. The conveyor belt 236 may move at the following speeds: which delivers the locked portable latching device 16 to the bag pick-up location 246 substantially simultaneously with arrival of the ride-on vehicle 226 used by the respective rider 14 at the unloading station 214. In other embodiments, the conveyor belt 236 may feed the locked portable latching device 16 to a container located at the bag pick-up location 246.

Riders can retrieve their respective portable latching devices 16 from the container at the bag pick up location 246. For example, each ride vehicle 226 may be assigned a container. Thus, riders 14 may access the container assigned to the ride vehicle 226 from which they exited to retrieve their respective portable latching devices 16. As previously discussed, after retrieving the portable latching device 16, the rider 14 may electromagnetically (e.g., via the RFID door 40, the locking/unlocking apparatus 130, etc.) or mechanically (e.g., a key or similar apparatus) unlock the locking mechanism 56 or the bag lock 124.

In one embodiment, portable latching device 16 may be implemented as or incorporated with a wheeled (on wheel) autonomous vehicle that follows a path from loading station 212 to unloading station 214, or other location where rider 14 may retrieve stored loose items 20. The autonomous vehicle may include features (e.g., sensors) that prevent the autonomous vehicle from colliding with park guests and/or objects (e.g., walls, park structures, etc.). In some embodiments, the portable latching device 16 may not be autonomous. Rather, portable latching device 16 may include wheels that follow a predetermined path (e.g., a specifically space-based track or programmed path) from loading station 212 to a loose item pickup location associated with amusement park ride 10. Portable latching devices 16 may each have an actuator to lift portable latching device 16 up to the height of the ride vehicle seat, or to position portable latching device 16 in front of the ride vehicle seat, etc., to allow a rider to place loose item 20 within portable latching device 16 after the rider has embarked on ride vehicle 226.

As previously discussed, portable latching device 16 may be used to store and secure loose item 20 to prevent loose item 20 from separating from rider 14 during operation of amusement park ride 10. It is now recognized that park guests (e.g., riders 14) may not wish to separate from their loose items while on the amusement park ride 10. Additionally, it may be desirable for the rider 14 to capture the ride experience by taking their own video or pictures while enjoying the amusement park ride 10 by the rider 14. Thus, the portable latching device 16 may be configured to allow the rider 14 to secure the portable latching device 16 to themselves or to the ride vehicle 226 such that the loose items 20 are occupied by the rider 14.

As previously discussed, riders of amusement park ride facilities may wish to always carry their stored items with them. That is, some riders may be uncomfortable to store their items in a remote area separate from the ride vehicle 226. Thus, it may be desirable for rider 14 to secure portable latching device 16 to a ride vehicle 226 (e.g., a ride seat) of amusement park ride 10 by rider 14. Further, by allowing the rider 14 to board the ride 10 with the portable latching device 16 and securing the portable latching device 16 to the ride vehicle 226, the rider 14 may continue to have access to the loose items 20 stored in the portable latching device 16, and the items 20 may be within the line of sight of the rider 14. Further, by allowing the rider 14 to store the portable latching device 16 on the ride vehicle 226, the rider's waiting time and congestion at the bag storage/drop and pick-up stations 240, 246, respectively, may be mitigated.

Fig. 13 is an embodiment of a ride vehicle 226 having an integrated storage system 250, integrated storage system 250 may be used to secure portable latching device 16 to ride vehicle 226. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the integrated storage system 250 may be coupled to a ride seat 254 (e.g., a back support of the ride seat). The integrated storage system 250 may include a retaining bar 258 having one or more retaining features that engage with complementary features on the portable latching device 16 to secure the portable latching device 16 to the ride-on vehicle 226 in a manner similar to the storage rack 150 previously discussed. For example, retaining bar 258 may include hooks, clips, pegs, bins, pockets, connectors, etc. that receive and retain portable latching device 16 within ride vehicle 226 during operation of amusement park ride 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the retention bar 258 is positioned on a back portion 260 of the rider seat 254 such that the portable latching device 16 is in front of the rider 14 occupying a ride seat that is behind the ride seat 254 with the retention bar 258. However, the retaining bar 258 may be positioned on any portion of the ride vehicle 226 (e.g., a side wall, under a ride seat, seat or row divider, etc.).

In one embodiment, the portable latch device 16 may be transparent so that the rider 14 may access a touch screen or buttons of the electronic device stored within the portable latch device 16. For example, while the portable latching device 16 is secured to the ride vehicle 226, the rider 14 may access a camera (e.g., on a mobile phone) through the portable latching device 16 to take a photograph or video. In such embodiments, the attachment point to ride vehicle 226 (e.g., integrated storage system 250) may be arranged such that the camera is pointed at a point of interest (e.g., a rider or an upcoming ride path) during ride 10. The portable latching device 16 and the integrated storage system 250 may include indicators to facilitate proper alignment for capturing video data (e.g., photos or video) during the ride 10.

In certain embodiments, the storage lock of the integrated storage system 250 may be activated by a control system of the amusement park ride 10. For example, fig. 14 illustrates an embodiment of amusement park ride 10 in which ride seat 254 of ride vehicle 226 includes one or more sensors 270 communicatively coupled to a holding bar 258 and a control system 272 of amusement park ride 10. One or more sensors 270 may transmit a signal 274 to the holding bar 258 and/or the control system 272, the signal 274 indicating that the ride seat 254 is occupied and that the portable latching device 16 may need to be secured to the integrated storage system 250. For example, near field communication may be used to determine that the rider 14 has a portable latching device 16 or smart phone and is in a seating area. In response to such a determination, the rider 14 may be prompted to mount the portable latching device 16 to the integrated storage system 250. Once the portable latching device 16 is mounted to the integrated storage system 250, the retaining bar 258 transmits another signal 276 to the control system 272, the other signal 276 indicating that the portable latching device 16 is attached. After attaching the portable latching device 16 to the restraint bar 258, the control system 272 activates the locking mechanism of the integrated storage system 250 to retain and secure the portable latching device 16 to the restraint bar 258 of the ride vehicle 226. Once control system 272 detects that all portable latching devices 16 within ride vehicle 226 are secured to integrated storage system 250, control system 272 releases ride vehicle 226 from loading station 214. In certain embodiments, for example, in situations where the rider 14 does not have any loose items 20 that need to be stored in the portable latching device 16, the control system 272 may allow the operator of the ride 10 to bypass (bypass) the attachment of the portable latching device 16 to the retaining bar 258.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in fig. 14, the retention bar 258 of the integrated storage system 250 may include a pair of brackets 280, the pair of brackets 280 being sized and shaped to receive complementary features disposed on the portable latching device 16. Complementary features may engage bracket 280 to hold portable latching device 16 to ride-on vehicle 226. For example, the complementary feature may include an i-beam 284 or other similar feature disposed on at least a portion of the outer surface 286 and extending along the longitudinal axis 288 of the portable latching device 16. I-beam 286 may slide into channel 290 defined by the pair of brackets 280 to retain portable latching device 16 to ride vehicle 226.

One or more sensors 270 (e.g., electromagnetic sensors) may receive signals 292 from a transmitter 294 located on the portable latching device 16 via a wireless communication link. The signal 292 transmitted by the transmitter 294 on the portable latching device 16 may indicate that the portable latching device 16 is within the ride vehicle 226. Once the one or more sensors 270 detect that the portable latching device 16 is retained within the integrated storage system 250, the one or more sensors 270 may output a lock signal 274 to a locking mechanism 298 (e.g., a mechanical lock such as a latch), the lock signal 274 activating the locking mechanism 298 and securing the portable latching device 16 to the integrated storage system 250. In this manner, the retention bar 258 and/or its associated locking component may switch from the unsecured configuration to the secured configuration based on receiving the secured signal 274 or the unsecured signal. Once the portable latching device 16 is secured to the integrated storage system 250, the integrated storage system 250 may transmit a signal 276 to the control system 272 of the amusement park ride 10, the signal 276 indicating that the portable latching device 16 is secured in the ride vehicle 226. Control system 272 may activate light 300 on ride vehicle 226 to indicate that portable latching device 16 is secured and release ride vehicle 226 from loading station 212. If one or more sensors 270 detect that the portable latching device 16 is within the ride vehicle 226, but do not detect that the portable latching device 16 is held within the integrated storage system 250, the one or more sensors 270 do not output a signal 274 to the control system 272 and do not release the ride vehicle 226 from the loading station 212. In this particular embodiment, the light 300 may not be activated, or the light 300 may display a color indicating that the ride vehicle 226 may not be released. For example, in some embodiments, light 300 may be red to alert an operator of amusement park ride 10 that portable latching device 16 is not secured within ride vehicle 226 (e.g., ride vehicle 226 has one or more unsecured portable latching devices 16 on the vehicle). The ride vehicle 226 may also send a signal to the central controller that either permits movement when all detected portable latches 16 are fixed or prevents movement based on detecting one or more unsecured portable latches 16.

In certain embodiments, the integrated storage system 250 may be below the seat pan 302 of the ride seat 254. The seat pan 302 may include a storage space between the seat base and the seat pan cover. The storage space may be accessible (e.g., open) when the seat cover is in the first position and closed (e.g., locked) when the seat pan cover is in the second position. For example, when the seat pan cover is in the first position, the seat pan cover may be positioned parallel to the back 304 of the ride seat 254 when the ride seat 254 is unoccupied. Thus, the storage space is readily accessible to the rider 14 for storing items. Once the rider 14 has stored the item in the storage space, the rider 14 can lower the seat pan cover to the second position. For example, in the second position, the seat pan cover may be perpendicular to the backrest 304 such that the seat pan cover covers the storage space and allows the rider 14 to occupy (e.g., sit) the ride seat 254. Thus, during operation of the amusement park ride 10, the article 20 may be secured within the storage space of the seat deck 302. When the rider 14 stands up after completing the amusement park ride 10 experience, the rider 14 may retrieve the stored items 20. In this manner, riders 14 may possess their items during operation of amusement park ride 10. Furthermore, because rider 14 is seated and restrained in ride seat 254, during operation of amusement park ride 10, rider 14 may not be able to remove stored items 20 from the storage space within ride seat 254. In some embodiments, the seat pan 302 can include a locking mechanism (e.g., mechanical lock, latch, hook, etc.) to secure the seat pan cover to the base after the rider 14 stores the item 20 in the storage space. Regardless of the configuration of the integrated storage system 250, the portable latching device 16 may be released from the integrated storage system 250 at the end of the ride 10, e.g., the controller may send a release signal to the integrated storage system 250 when the vehicle 226 enters the unloading area. The release signal may trigger the switching of the retention lever 258 to the unsecured configuration and, in some embodiments, is a visual indicator that the rider 14 may remove the portable latching device 16. Further, control of the release of the portable latching device 16 from the integrated storage system 250 may be in parallel or in series with permitting the rider 14 to unlock the pouch 48. In some embodiments, the rider 14 may be encouraged to exit faster by decoupling the signal triggering the release of the portable latching device 16 from the integrated storage system 250 from the unlocking of the pouch 48. That is, unlocking (e.g., via a transmitted unlock signal) may only be possible at a location separate from the ride vehicle 226 to prevent chafing during the unloading process. Thus, the rider 14 can bring their portable latching device 16 from the ride vehicle 226 to the unlocked position.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable for the rider 14 to have access to his/her loose items 20, particularly mobile phones, while the rider 14 waits to load and unload the amusement park ride 10. Thus, in some embodiments, the portable latch device 16 may be wearable (e.g., a wearable latch device) so that the rider 14 may always possess their loose items 20 during riding. The portable latching device 16 may include features that allow the rider 14 or one or more staff members 28 (e.g., amusement park employees responsible for managing queues or access points) to secure the portable latching device 16 to the rider 14. In this manner, the present embodiment allows the rider 14 to carry their loose items 20 with them onto the ride 10, which may be comfortable for the rider 14 as compared to leaving their personal items at the loading station of the ride 10 or at any other location remote from the rider 14. Fig. 15 illustrates an embodiment of wearable bag 310, which wearable bag 310 may be worn by rider 14 of amusement park ride 10 before, during, and after operation of amusement park ride 10. That is, the rider 14 may be occupied with items stored in the wearable bag 310 at all times during the riding experience. The wearable bag 310 can be of various sizes and shapes to accommodate various items and rider preferences. To mitigate access to stored items 20 during operation of amusement park ride 10, wearable pouch 310 may include a feature that prevents unlocking of wearable pouch 310.

In addition, the wearable pouch 310 may include features that may prevent or allow the rider 14 to use the mobile phone or other electronic device after the items 20 are stored in the wearable pouch 310. For example, in some embodiments, the wearable bag 310 may be made of an opaque material that prevents the rider 14 from viewing and/or accessing a touch screen on an electronic device stored within the wearable bag 310. In other embodiments, the pouch material may have a thickness that is not suitable for use in accessing buttons or a touch screen of an electronic device stored within the wearable pouch 310. Furthermore, wearable bag 310 may act as a faraday cage such that electronics stored within wearable bag 310 cannot transmit signals. In embodiments that allow the rider 14 to use an electronic device (e.g., a mobile phone, digital camera, etc.) after the item 20 is stored and locked within the wearable bag 310, the wearable bag 310 may be made of a transparent material. In some embodiments, wearable pouch 310 may be capable of switching between modes to prevent or allow a photograph to be taken or the device to function within. For example, in areas where no pictures are allowed, the transmission to the electronics of the package may change in transparency, such as causing it to change an area from transparent to opaque (e.g., with liquid crystal).

In the illustrated embodiment, wearable pouch 310 includes a restraint 316 having a locking mechanism 320, locking mechanism 320 allowing rider 14 to secure wearable pouch 310 to their individual. For example, as shown in fig. 15, wearable pouch 310 is restrained at waist 324 of rider 14. Similar to the portable latching device 16 previously discussed, the wearable pouch 310 includes a pouch 330 and a pouch lock 332, the pouch 330 may be used to store rider items during operation of the amusement park ride 10, and the pouch lock 332 may secure the items in the pouch 330. For example, as illustrated in fig. 16, the restraint 316 may include a strap or belt 340, the strap or belt 340 having a first portion 342 of the locking mechanism 320 on a first terminal 346 and a second portion 348 of the locking mechanism 320 on a second terminal 350, the second terminal 350 being spaced apart from the first terminal 346 and substantially opposite the first terminal 346. The first portion 342 of the locking mechanism can engage the second portion 348 of the locking mechanism 320 to couple the terminals 346, 350 of the waist belt 340 and thereby secure the wearable pouch 310 to the rider 14. By way of non-limiting example, locking mechanism 320 includes a clip, buckle, snap-fit connector, or any other suitable locking mechanism that can secure wearable bag 310 to rider 14. In some embodiments, the restraint 316 may be adjustable to accommodate riders of different shapes and sizes.

In certain embodiments, the locking mechanism 320 may be communicatively coupled to the bag lock 332 (e.g., a wireless or wired connection). For example, fig. 17 illustrates an embodiment of wearable bag 310 in which locking mechanism 320 includes a binding lock 354, which binding lock 354, once activated, may prevent bag lock 332 from becoming unlocked. That is, once the locking mechanism 320 locks to activate the restraining lock 354 and secure the wearable bag 310 to the rider 14, the locking mechanism 320 can prevent the rider 14 from unlocking the bag lock 332 and opening the bag 330 to access the items 20 stored within the bag 330 during operation of the ride 10. For example, the locking mechanism 320 can include a transmitter 356 that transmits a locking signal 358 to the bag lock 332 when the rider 14 passes a control point (e.g., control point 24) of the amusement park ride 10. Similarly, after ride 10 is completed and ride vehicle 226 is at unloading station 214, locking mechanism 320 may transmit an unlock signal 359 to bag lock 332. In some embodiments, the restraint lock 354 and the bag lock 332 are the same mechanism.

In certain embodiments, an operator (e.g., one or more workers 28) may lock both the restraint lock 354 and the bag lock 332 of the bag 330 at the loading station 212 before the rider 14 boards the ride-on vehicle 226. For example, the restraint lock 354 and the bag lock 332 may include mechanical locks (e.g., fasteners, connectors, locks, etc.) that are locked and unlocked using keys accessible only to an operator of the ride 10. The operator may lock the bag lock 332 and the restraint lock 354, respectively, with the key while the rider 14 is riding on the ride vehicle 226. In other embodiments, the bag lock 332 and the restraint lock 354 comprise electromagnetic locks. Thus, prior to riding on the ride vehicle 226, the rider 14 may walk through a first electromagnetic station positioned at the loading station 212 (e.g., at the control point 24). The electromagnetic station transmits a wireless signal to the bag lock 332 and the restraint lock 354, thereby locking the bag lock 332 and the restraint lock 354. Once the amusement park ride 10 is terminated, the rider 14 may walk through a second electromagnetic station (e.g., RFID door 40) at the unloading station 214. Similar to the first electromagnetic station, the second electromagnetic station transmits a second signal to the bag lock 332 and the restraint lock 354, thereby unlocking the bag 330 and the restraint device 316, respectively, and allowing the rider 14 to retrieve the stored items. The rider 14 may store the wearable bags 310 in a storage bin prior to exiting the amusement park ride 10.

In some embodiments, the restraint device 316 can be positioned on the rider 14 in a manner that does not allow the rider 14 to access the restraint lock 354 during operation of the amusement park ride 10. In this manner, the rider 14 may not be able to remove the wearable bag 310 while on the amusement park ride 10. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in fig. 14-17, similar to a belt, the restraint 316 of wearable bag 310 is wrapped around the waist 324 of the rider such that bag 330 is positioned on the front of the rider 14 and restraint latch 354 is positioned on the side or back of the rider 14. By positioning the restraint lock 354 on the side or back of the rider 14, the rider 14 may have limited or no access to the restraint lock 354 during operation of the ride 10. Thus, the rider 14 may not be able to unlock the restraint lock 354 while enjoying the ride 10.

Fig. 18-21 illustrate various other embodiments of a restraining device 316 associated with wearable bag 310. For example, fig. 18 illustrates an embodiment of wearable bag 310 having a backpack-like configuration. For example, as shown in fig. 18, restraint 316 of wearable bag 310 includes a set of straps 360, each strap 360 coupled to bag 330 and to each other via locking mechanism 320. The strap 360 may be adjustable to accommodate riders of different shapes and sizes. In use, the rider 14 can slide each arm through the respective loop 364 defined by each strap of the set of straps 360 such that the pocket 330 is positioned on the front of the rider 14. The operator of amusement park ride 10 or rider 14 may secure the restraint lock 354 to the back of the rider 14 (e.g., between the rider's waist and shoulders), to couple each of the set of straps 360, and to secure the wearable bag 310 to the rider 14. In this manner, the rider 14 may not have access to the binding lock 354 during operation of the amusement park ride 10. As such, rider 14 may not be able to remove wearable bag 310 during operation of amusement park ride 10, which may prevent loss of wearable bag 310 and items stored within bag 330 (e.g., loose items 20).

Fig. 19 also illustrates an embodiment of the wearable bag 310, the wearable bag 310 having a set of straps 360 arranged in a shoulder-strap like configuration (e.g., with one strap of the set of straps 360 extending diagonally across the rider 14 from the right side of the rider's waist to the left side of the rider's shoulder, or vice versa). For example, in the illustrated embodiment, a first strap 368 of the set of straps 360 may be positioned around the waist 324 of the rider 14 (e.g., similar to a waist belt), and a second strap 370 of the set of straps 360 may be positioned to straddle the torso of the rider 14 (e.g., from the right side to the left side of the rider 14, or vice versa) such that the second strap 370 wraps around the shoulders of the rider 14 and connects to the first strap 368 of the back of the rider 14 at: this position is where the second strap 370 wraps around the opposite side of the shoulder of the rider 14. The locking mechanism 320 of this configuration may be positioned such that it is difficult for the rider 14 to reach. Thus, a ride operator or other park guest may assist in engaging and disengaging the locking mechanism 320. Further, the locking mechanism 320 of each of these wearable bag embodiments may be configured such that the locking mechanism can only be actuated by the ride operator using an electronic key or the like.

In some embodiments, the wearable pouch 310 can include features that can allow the rider 14 to activate features on an electronic device (e.g., mobile phone, camera, etc.) stored within the wearable pouch 310. For example, wearable bag 310 may include a trigger that may allow video and/or photo capture. The wearable bag 310 may have a remote control (remote) that the rider 14 uses to actuate the trigger and allow video and/or photo capture. In one embodiment, wearable bag 310 may include a transmitter that prevents rider 14 from taking video and/or photos with a mobile phone during operation of amusement park ride 10 or at certain locations throughout the amusement park. This may be done by disabling the trigger. In one embodiment, the transmitter may send a signal to the electronic device stored in wearable bag 310 to alert the electronic device to: the area is limited and does not allow video and photo capture. For example, the electronic device may receive an instruction to block the camera. This may be accomplished via a transmitter on wearable bag 310 or directly from an area transmitter. In another embodiment, wearable bag 310 itself may be capable of actuation to block access, for example, through a block transparent access window, when signals are received from the transmitter in certain areas. Once the rider/guest exits the restricted area, the transmitter may provide an output indicating that the rider/guest is not in the restricted area and allow video and/or photo capture.

Embodiments of the present disclosure also include wearable bags having a phone box that can be separated from the bag 330 to allow the rider 14 to access their mobile phone after the bag 330 and/or restraint 316 are locked (e.g., prior to boarding the amusement park ride 10). For example, fig. 20 and 21 illustrate an embodiment of wearable bag 310 having a phone box 374 (e.g., a bag), the phone box 374 coupled to a retractable lanyard 380. The retractable lanyard 380 may be coupled to a spool 382, the spool 382 forming part of the bag 330. Before boarding the amusement park ride 10, the rider 14 may pull the phone box 374 away from the pocket 330 to access their mobile phone 386 and engage with their mobile phone 386. For example, when rider 14 exerts a pulling force 390 on phone box 374, spool 382 rotates about axis 392 in direction 394 (e.g., counterclockwise) and unwinds retractable lanyard 380 (see fig. 21). Spool 382 may continue to rotate to release retractable lanyard 380 thereby increasing the distance 396 between bag 330 and phone box 374. Spool 382 can be automatically or manually locked to maintain retractable lanyard 380 at a desired distance 396 away from phone box 374 without rider 14 having to continuously apply a pulling force 390 on retractable lanyard 380.

Once the rider 14 is no longer engaged with the cellular telephone 386 in the phone case 374, the spool 382 can be unlocked to allow the retractable lanyard 380 to retract, thereby reducing the distance 396 between the pouch 330 and the phone case 374. For example, spool may be rotated about axis 392 in a direction substantially opposite to direction 394 (e.g., clockwise) to wind retractable lanyard 380 and reduce distance 396 between phone box 374 and pocket 330. In this manner, pod 374 may be secured to restraint 316 of wearable bag 310. The phone box 374 may have clips or fasteners 400 (e.g., snap-fit connectors, magnets, or any other suitable fasteners) that enable the rider 14 to secure the phone box 374 to the strap 360 of the restraint device 316 when the mobile phone 386 is not in use and during operation of the amusement park ride 10. In one embodiment, spool 386 may have an internal lock (e.g., a pin and lock mechanism) that inhibits spool 386 from unwinding. In one embodiment, spool 386 is not disabled, but the device (e.g., a phone) is clipped/locked in a position such that the device is substantially immobile even if spool 386 is wound/unwound.

Spool 386 can include a sensor 406, which sensor 406 can activate a locking mechanism within the spool when a rider boards an amusement park ride. For example, a sensor may receive a signal from the ride vehicle that activates a retraction mode of the locking mechanism. When in the winding mode, the locking mechanism can automatically retract (e.g., wind) the retractable lanyard to reduce the distance between the pouch and the phone case, allowing the rider to secure the phone case to the wearable pouch restraint. The locking mechanism may prevent the retractable lanyard from being released (e.g., unwound) when the rider exerts a pulling force on the phone case. In this manner, rider 14 may not have access to mobile phone 386 during operation of amusement park ride 10. Once the amusement park ride 10 is terminated, the sensor 406 may receive a deactivation signal from a release station (e.g., RFID door 40) within the ride vehicle 226 or unloading station 214 that may deactivate the locking mechanism and allow the rider 14 to unwind the retractable lanyard 380 to access and engage the mobile phone 386 in the phone box 374.

In addition to facilitating loose item management for a casino ride, the portable latching device 16 may also be part of an entertainment system that includes a plurality of portable latching devices 16 nested within the portable latching devices of the portable latching devices 16. The locking mechanism 56 of each of the plurality of portable latching devices 16 may be activated and/or deactivated at different times using different keys (e.g., mechanical or electromagnetic). For example, fig. 22 illustrates an embodiment of an entertainment system 410, the entertainment system 410 having a pouch 416 comprising a plurality of sub-pouches 420, wherein each pouch of the plurality of sub-pouches 420 is nested within another pouch of the plurality of sub-pouches 420. The innermost pouch 424 may include a prize 426 (e.g., a reward, a gadget, etc.), and the user may retrieve the prize 426 after each pouch 416, 420, 424 is unlocked from the outermost pouch 416 to the innermost pouch 424.

For example, as shown in fig. 22, the entertainment system 410 may be a treasure hunt game (scoop hunt) pocket set having a set of pockets 416, 420, 424 nested within one another. In the illustrated embodiment, the treasure hunt game bag kit includes three bags. However, any other suitable number of bags may be used. The innermost pouch 424 is shaped and dimensioned to be nested within a second pouch 430, the second pouch 430 being shaped and dimensioned to be nested within the outermost pouch 416. Each pocket 416, 424, 430 includes a pocket lock 434, and the user may unlock the pocket lock 434 by following a set of cues that guide the user to an unlocking station, where a desired pocket 416, 424, 430 may be unlocked to expose a pocket nested within the previous pocket, and provide subsequent cues that guide the user to a second unlocking station. The user may continue to access the cues and unlock the plurality of pockets 420 until the innermost pocket 424 is accessible and the prize 426 stored within the innermost pocket 424 (e.g., via a series of RFID locks 434) may be retrieved by the user.

In some embodiments, the treasure hunt game pocket set may not include a plurality of pockets. Rather, the scavenger hunt play bag kit may include a single bag having a plurality of bag locks that may be unlocked at different unlocking stations throughout the amusement park. The user may retrieve the prize within the bag after all bag locks have been unlocked.

Conventional systems and methods for controlling loose items on an amusement park ride prevent guests from boarding the items by preventing the guests from ever entering a queue building associated with the "loose items". However, it is now recognized that guests prefer to maintain more control and access to their loose items during waiting times. This embodiment allows guests to carry their items with them in the queue building while also preventing them from carrying items privately to the ride itself by placing them in their pockets.

While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.