Four Christie D4K40-RGB pure laser projectors, boosted by Christie Mystique, the camera-based multi-projector alignment and blending system, are being used as part of the new FlyRide ‘Take Flight’ aerial adventure ride at Wisconsin’s Wilderness Resort. Developed by SimEx-Iwerks, the ride utilises Mystique, Large Scale Experience (LSE) Edition to ensure that the projectors remain aligned and the image perfect.
“One of the decisions we’ve made as a company is to deploy systems that offer autocalibration, so if the whole system is moved it can be put back in place,” explained Doug Wildeboer, AV engineering manager at SimEx-Iwerks, which specialises in branded cinematic experiences.
“The operator can run the routine and lock the system back into the same condition as when we left it. We needed projectors that we could orient into abnormal positions to get the proper coverage in the three-dimensional dome. We needed to angle them down and on their sides. It was absolutely required, and the project would not have been possible with any projector that wasn’t omnidirectional.”
Wilderness Resort is located on over 600 acres of forest, where guests can stay at three properties, enjoy golf, indoor and outdoor waterparks, dining, and a range of activities for the whole family. ‘Take Flight’ opened in September 2020, expanding the list of exciting activities for guests to enjoy, providing a unique aerial view of US National Parks, national landmarks and the Wisconsin Dells,
The ride begins as guests enter an airport-themed lobby, with ‘windows’ looking out onto the National Parks. Guests are then queued at an ‘airport’ featuring airplane seats, before entering the ride. The ride seats 60, accommodating five people on each ride vehicle. As the ride begins, the doors in front open, revealing an immersive five-story partial dome. Guest’s feet dangle as they’re surrounded by the immense dome, creating the illusion of flying.
“At Wilderness Resort, we have a very complex screen. It’s a partial dome screen, and instead of relying on our eyes to try to align the system, Mystique is incredible at being able to do that by the numbers,” said Wildeboer. “We have LED markers around the edge of the screen, so if a camera is jarred, the markers will light up and let the system know exactly where the screen is. That removes operator error or intervention with recalibrating the system.”
Doug Boyer, senior account manager, Entertainment, Christie added: “We’re thrilled to have worked with SimEx-Iwerks on another successful FlyRide. SimEx-Iwerks is known for creating world-class immersive attractions, and ‘Take Flight’ is no exception.”
