Disney creates robotic stunt double capable of performing superhuman feats
POSTED 05 Jul 2018 . BY Megan Whitby
Disney's newest robotics breakthrough is named Stuntronics Credit: DIsney
Disney’s Imagineers have unveiled their latest innovation in new generation robotics – an autonomous robotic stunt double.
Called Stuntronics, the animatronic robot can control and alter its pose in mid air, as well as guaranteeing the completion of sophisticated aerial stunts with precision every time.
The robot represents a significant improvement to traditional animatronics, as it can be flung from a wire 60ft (18.3m) into the air and execute acrobatics while in flight.
Robots have been used throughout Disney's theme parks for decades to help create an immersive experience for visitors, as the company wants to make the Disney universe and its characters as vivid and as true to their films as possible.
Typically, animatronic figures only run through a specific pre-built cycle of movements and remain in a fixed spot. However, the Stuntronics figure is different to other models, as it is significantly larger, weighing 90 pounds and assuming a human form.
The Stuntronics programme originally began as Disney’s "Stickman" project – based on a Z-shaped robot fitted with a laser-range finder, that produces a variety of somersaulting stunts. The project was sparked by a universal concern at Disney that its parks' robots did not match the increasingly authentic nature of its on-screen characters. As a result, Disney chose to task its Imagineers with improving the dynamicity of its animatronics.
Stickman uses an IMU and laser range-finder to estimate its state mid-flight and actuates in the air to change its motion.
This year, Disney has also produced other autonomous robots that are interactive.
These new robotic aliens, called ‘The Vyloo’, are a part of Disney's Guardians of the Galaxy ride, Mission:BREAKOUT, and are capable of moods and interacting with Disney’s visitors prompted by social and physical cues from guests.
Abu Dhabi-based investment firm Mubadala Capital has made a binding, fully financed
€1 billion
offer to acquire Pierre and Vacances SA, the European holiday resort operator behind the
continental European Center Parcs business.
Expo 2030 Riyadh is being planned as a permanent visitor destination, with organisers
confirming the six-million-square-metre site will become a Global Village after the event closes.
The owner of one of Australia's best-known waterparks has acquired a major competitor,
creating a new attractions business spanning two of the country's largest visitor destinations.
Disney creates robotic stunt double capable of performing superhuman feats
POSTED 05 Jul 2018 . BY Megan Whitby
Disney's newest robotics breakthrough is named Stuntronics Credit: DIsney
Disney’s Imagineers have unveiled their latest innovation in new generation robotics – an autonomous robotic stunt double.
Called Stuntronics, the animatronic robot can control and alter its pose in mid air, as well as guaranteeing the completion of sophisticated aerial stunts with precision every time.
The robot represents a significant improvement to traditional animatronics, as it can be flung from a wire 60ft (18.3m) into the air and execute acrobatics while in flight.
Robots have been used throughout Disney's theme parks for decades to help create an immersive experience for visitors, as the company wants to make the Disney universe and its characters as vivid and as true to their films as possible.
Typically, animatronic figures only run through a specific pre-built cycle of movements and remain in a fixed spot. However, the Stuntronics figure is different to other models, as it is significantly larger, weighing 90 pounds and assuming a human form.
The Stuntronics programme originally began as Disney’s "Stickman" project – based on a Z-shaped robot fitted with a laser-range finder, that produces a variety of somersaulting stunts. The project was sparked by a universal concern at Disney that its parks' robots did not match the increasingly authentic nature of its on-screen characters. As a result, Disney chose to task its Imagineers with improving the dynamicity of its animatronics.
Stickman uses an IMU and laser range-finder to estimate its state mid-flight and actuates in the air to change its motion.
This year, Disney has also produced other autonomous robots that are interactive.
These new robotic aliens, called ‘The Vyloo’, are a part of Disney's Guardians of the Galaxy ride, Mission:BREAKOUT, and are capable of moods and interacting with Disney’s visitors prompted by social and physical cues from guests.
Abu Dhabi-based investment firm Mubadala Capital has made a binding, fully financed
€1 billion
offer to acquire Pierre and Vacances SA, the European holiday resort operator behind the
continental European Center Parcs business.
Expo 2030 Riyadh is being planned as a permanent visitor destination, with organisers
confirming the six-million-square-metre site will become a Global Village after the event closes.
The owner of one of Australia's best-known waterparks has acquired a major competitor,
creating a new attractions business spanning two of the country's largest visitor destinations.
The Toverland theme park in the Netherlands has announced a €98m expansion programme
that will add a resort, new attractions and staff facilities as it pursues plans to become a multi-
day destination.
Hotel de France, located on the British Isle of Jersey, has created a wellness retreat package
that includes a hot yoga session that will take place in Jersey Zoo’s butterfly sanctuary.
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