Hand Gesture Technology Coming to LEGOLAND Parks

With just a wave of their hands, guests visiting select LEGOLAND theme parks around the world will be able to throw lightning bolts, move shockwaves, send ice soaring, and emit fire balls with cutting-edge technology demonstrated by Triotech (world leader in media-based interactive attractions) at the 2015 IAAPA Expo in Orlando. The technology will be introduced in the new NINJAGO: The Ride opening in 2016 at LEGOLAND parks in California, Billund, and Malaysia.

NINJAGO: The Ride will feature the new "Maestro" hand gesture technology that enables guests to control the outcome of their adventure through the power of their hand gestures without the use of a hand-held device.

“Triotech’s Maestro hand gesture technology features the ultimate ergonomics: each guest uses his or her own hands…or hand.  They can use left or right, one, or two hands. This is why we call it Maestro,” said President and CEO of Triotech Ernest Yale. “Just like an orchestra conductor, guests will create an amazing experience by using their hands. It is very intuitive and adaptive to the guest’s playing style.”

Through 3D imagery, high-tech sensors and the use of hand movements in a striking motion, up to four riders per car can act like ninja warriors blasting animated fireballs, lightning, shockwaves and ice as they travel through dojos to master their skills before heading into battle. Riders collect points for their training and battle efforts throughout the ride and scores are displayed when their quest is completed. 4D effects such as heat, smoke and wind are also incorporated throughout the adventure, giving guests the ultimate interactive experience.

“Merlin’s Magic Making team is at the core of every new attraction going into Merlin parks worldwide and we are excited to be working with Triotech to bring this global project to three of our Parks across three countries next year,” said Managing Director of LEGOLAND Parks Hans Aksel Pedersen. “NINJAGO: The Ride represents a new class of LEGOLAND attraction in terms of technology, immersion and interactivity. The entire Merlin’s Magic Making team is excited to see how guests react to what will be a world first and completely unique theme park experience.”

At the press conference, Yale explained that the technology works by first detecting each guest’s hand motion, then sophisticated software determines where the guest is aiming. That is then translated to an image showing the projectile’s progress on screen. Guests will have their own color so they will know exactly where they are aiming and receive instant feedback by seeing their projectiles and impacts.

The ride will be the epicenter of a new NINJAGO land where interactive experiences will test guests’ physical skills, balance and agility before they can prep for their ultimate training session on NINJAGO: The Ride. Could something similar be added to LEGOLAND Florida's offerings? We can only hope so!

PHOTOS: © 2015 LEGOLAND Parks/Triotech. All rights reserved.