CA2004314A1

CA2004314A1 - Exhibition system

Info

Publication number: CA2004314A1
Application number: CA 2004314
Authority: CA
Inventors: Yukihiro Asami; Shinya Saitoh; Retsu Asanuma
Original assignee: Takara Co Ltd
Current assignee: Takara Co Ltd
Priority date: 1988-11-30
Filing date: 1989-11-30
Publication date: 1990-05-31
Also published as: GB2226439A; GB2226439B; DE3939369A1; FR2639728A1; GB8927078D0

Abstract

ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
An exhibition system capable of highly enhancing an exhibition effect to a degree sufficient to attract consumers. The exhibition system includes a plurality of exhibits arranged on a stage and each including an actuation mechanism provided with a sensor and actuated when the sensor detects a predetermined physical stimulus such as sound. The system also includes electrical lamps for irradiating the exhibits, loudspeakers, a VTR tape for storing therein a control program for actuating the lamps, loudspeakers and exhibits, a VTR for reading out the control program, and a controller for controlling the actuation of the exhibits, lamps and loudspeakers in association with one another through the sensor.

Description

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TITLE OF THE INVENTION
EXHIBITION SYSTEM

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to an exhibition system -~
adapted to display exhibits in response to an external physical stimulus such as sound, light or the like to increase an exhibition effect, and more particularly to an exhibition or display system for actuating a plurality of exhibits such as toys in association with one another and/or audiences using a predetermined program.
In general, in a sales place such as a salesroom, a store or the like, goods are disorderly arranged or piled mountain-high. Alternatively, even when goods are orderly arranged or decorated, an explanation of the goods is given in a fixed form by a tape recorder or the like or directly ~-by a salesperson. - -However, such a conventional way lacks interest to fail to attract consumers, resulting in failing to exhibit ; `~
a satisfactory exhibition effect.
In view of the foregoing, it was attempted to ~`
actuate exhibits such as goods, decorations or the like according to a predetermined program to enhance the exhibition effect of the exhibits to a degree sufficient to `~
attract consumers. For this purpose, such actuation of goods is controlled often using a computer. i ;
Unfortunately, a computer program used for the computer is highly complicated, so that much time and labor are required to prepare it. Also, the operation of changing the computer program or confirming the details of the computer program is high troublesome.
Accordingly, it would be highly desirable to ~-develop a novel exhibition system which is capable of attracting lots of consumers, to thereby contribute to -35 sales promotion with highly simplified operation and ~ ;
structure. ~ ~

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.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Generally speaking, in accordance with the present ~-invention, an exhibition or display system is provided. -The exhibition system includes a memory means for storing 5 at least a sound data and a control program data therein, ~;~
readout means for reading out the sound data and control program data from the memory means, and a plurality of ~ `
exhibits each including an actuation mechanism provided with detection means for detecting a predetermined physical -~ -~
10 stimulus such as sound, light or the like. The actuation .
mechanism is actuated when the detection means detects the physical stimulus. The exhibition system also includes -~
sound generating means and control means for controlling the actuation of the sound generating means and detection -~
15 means depending upon the control program data read out : ~: ::: . ::::
through the readout means. -Such construction of the exhibition system permits `~
a plurality of the exhibits to be selectively controlled according to the control program and the detection means.
Z Accordingly, if the control program is so prepared that the ~ ' exhibits may be actuated when the detection means detects sound of audiences or the like, it is possible to establish any relationship such as communication between the exhibition system and the audiences, resulting in attracting the audiences.
Also, in accordance with the present invention, an actuation control method is provided for carrying out time-series selection with respect to a plurality of objects ~ ~ .
according to a predetermined combination and order of the ~
30 objects to supply an electrical energy to the selected ~ -objects, to thereby actuate the objects. The method :~
comprises the steps of storing, in time-series according to the predetermined combination and order, a supply signal ~ --for indicating the supply of the electrical energy to the ~ ~ `
objects on first track sections of a track of a video record carrier corresponding to a plurality of regions ~

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.': .'.,'~-200~314 obtained by dividing an image plane of an image receiver so as to correspond to a plurality of the objects;
successively reading out the supply signal in time-series;
and selecting the objects corresponding to the regions 5 corresponding to the first track sections on which the - - -supply signal is stored and changing the supply of the electrical energy to a circuit for supplying the electrical energy to the objects in order, resulting in controlling the actuation of the objects. -~
Thus, the method of the present invention is so constructed that the control of actuation of the objects may be carried out corresponding to the display of supply condition of the electric energy thereto on each of the regions obtained by dividing the image plane. Such ~-15 construction highly facilitates the preparation and ~ ~-correction of a control program tape and permits the details of the tape to be continuously confirmed even - ~`
during the progress of the program, as well as eliminates -~ `
the use of any specific equipment because of using any commercially available equipment such as a VTR, a video tape, a CRT or the like.
In accordance with the present invention, there is also provided an actuation control apparatus for carrying out time-series selection with respect to a plurality of objects according to a predetermined combination and order of the objects to supply an electrical energy to the selected objects, to thereby actuate the objects. The apparatus includes a control program data carrier constructed for storing, in time-series according to the -~
predetermined combination and order, a supply signal for indicating the supply of the electrical energy to the ~
objects on first track sections of a track of a video ;
record carrier corresponding to a plurality of regions obtained by dividing an image plane of an image receiver so `-as to correspond to a plurality of the objects; readout means for successively reading out the supply signal in ;

- . ~

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time-series; and supply circuit selecting means for selecting, depending upon the read-out supply signal, an electrical energy supply circuit for supplying the electrical energy to the objects corresponding to the first track sections on which the supply signal is stored to : - .: . . .
change the supply of the electrical energy to the objects, resulting in controlling the actuation of the objects.
Further, in accordance with the present invention, ~-there is provided a method of preparing an actuation 10 control program tape by storing in a magnetic tape an r,, actuation control program for carrying out time-series selection with respect to a plurality of objects according to a predetermined combination and order to supply an electrical energy selected objects, to thereby actuate the -objects. The method comprises the steps of dividing an image plane of an image receiver into a plurality of regions corresponding to a plurality of the objects and storing in time-series a supply signal for indicating the ;
supply of the electrical energy to the objects on track ~`
20 sections of a track of a video record carrier corresponding ~ ~-to the regions according to a predetermined combination and ~ -order of the objects so that the display of the regions indicates a plurality of supply conditions of the electrical energy. ~ ;~
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an exhibition system which is capable of highly enhancing an exhibition effect.
It is another object of the present invention to ~ ~-provide an exhibition system which is capable of establishing communication between the system and viewers or audiences which is sufficient to attract them.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide an exhibition system which is capable of reacting on an external physical stimulus to exhibit unexpected ;
interest and surprise.
It is still another object of the present invention - .

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to provide an actuation control method for an exhibition ;~
system which is capable of readily carrying out the ~-~
preparation, changing or confirmation of a control program -~
for controlling the actuation of the exhibition system. -It is yet another object of the present invention ~ ;
to provide an actuation control apparatus for an exhibition system which is capable of readily carrying out the ~ ~-preparation, changing or confirmation of a control program for controlling the actuation of the exhibition system.
It is still a further object of the present invention to provide a method for preparing an actuation -~
control program tape for an exhibition system which is ~ -capable of readily carrying out the preparation, changing ~ g or confirmation of a control program for actuating the 15 exhibition system. ~ ;
Still other objects and advantages of the invention will in part be obvious and will in part be apparent from the specification.
The invention accordingly comprises the features of construction, combination of elements, and arrangement of parts which will be exemplified in the construction "
hereinafter set forth, and the scope of the invention will be indicated in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS `
For a fuller understanding of the invention, reference is had to the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which like reference numeral designates like or corresponding parts ~ ;
throughout; wherein:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view generally showing an embodiment of an exhibition system according to the present invention wherein the exhibition system is constructed on a ' --large scale;
Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the exhibition system shown in Fig. l; ;-,: .: ' ~ :: .....

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20043~4 Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of an exhibit incorporated in the exhibition system shown in Fig. l;
Fig. 4 is a fragmentary vertical sectional view 5 showing an actuation mechanism provided in the exhibit -shown in Fig. 3;
Fig. 5 is a circuit diagram showing a drive circuit of the actuation mechanism shown in Fig. 4; - -Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the general structure of the exhibition system shown in Fig. l;
Fig. 7 is a circuit diagram showing a driving unit;
Fig. 8 is a circuit diagram showing an exhibition system of a larger scale including a plurality of driving units;
Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing an apparatus for ~ ~ `
preparing a VTR tape;
Fig. 10 is a schematic view showing a VTR tape;
Fig. 11 is a schematic view showing an image plane when a control program is in a setting mode;
Fig. 12 is a circuit diagram showing a circuit of a loudspeaker selector;
Fig. 13 is a circuit diagram showing a DC selector;
Fig. 14 is a circuit diagram showing an illumination selector and an AC selector;
Fig. 15 is a schematic view showing a terminal ~`
board of the driving unit shown in Fig. 7;
Fig. 16 is a circuit diagram showing the manner of control of the exhibition system shown in Fig. 1 by means of ultrasonic waves;
Fig. 17 is a circuit diagram showing an electrical circuit of another embodiment of an exhibition system ~ -according to the present invention; ~ ;
Fig. 18 is a perspective view showing the general construction of the embodiment of Fig. 17, wherein the exhibition system is constructed on a middle scale;
Fig. 19 is a perspective showing a modification of '~;' ' -:, '' -' ~ ', ;':' ,' the embodiment shown in Fig. 18;
Figs. 20 and 21 each are a circuit diagram showing a further embodiment of an exhibition system according to the present invention, wherein the exhibition system is constructed on a small scale Fig. 22 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in Figs. 20 and 21;
Fig. 23 is a fragmentary schematic view showing an audio tape employed in the embodiment shown in Fig. 22;
Figs. 24 and 25 each are a perspective view showing a modification of the embodiment shown in Fig. 22;
Fig. 26 is a circuit diagram showing a modification of the circuit shown in Fig. 20;
Fig. 27 is a perspective view showing still another embodiment of an exhibition system according to the present invention;
Fig. 28 is a schematic view showing the operation -of an exhibit incorporated in the exhibition shown in Fig.

Fig. 29 is a circuit diagram showing an electrical circuit employed in the exhibition system of Fig. 27;
Fig. 30 is a fragmentary schematic view showing an -~
audio tape employed in the embodiment shown in Fig. 27; and Fig. 31 is a perspective view showing loudspeaker each serving as an exhibit.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Now, an exhibition or display system according to the present invention will be described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Figs. 1 to 15 illustrate an embodiment of a display -system according to the present invention. An exhibition system of the illustrated embodiment is constructed on a relatively large scale and generally shown in Figs. 1 and 2. The exhibition system of the illustrated embodiment, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2, includes a stage 30, which - - , ~ ., ~,,.
-- , , . . . : -: ~

- - . : :. :. : ~ . . . : - . : - . -Z ~4 comprises a spring stag~ section 32, an autumn stage section 34, a central stage section 36, a summer stage section 38 and a winter stage section 40 successively arranged in order from a left side of the stage 30 to its i right side in Fig. 1. On the central stage section 30 are ~- ;
arranged an animal-like exhibit 42 and a flower-like exhibit 44. On each of the season stage sections 3Z, 34, 38 and 40 are arranged exhibits suitable for each season.
In the illustrated embodiment, the spring stage section 32 may include a flower-like exhibit 46, a bird-like exhibit 48 and an animal-like exhibit SO arranged thereon. The summer stage section 38 may include a flower-like exhibit 52, a glass-like exhibit 54, an animal-like exhibit 56, a fish-like exhibit 58 and a fountain-like exhibit 60. The autumn stage section 34 may include a flower-like exhibit 6Z, a doll-like exhibit 64, a bird-like exhibit 66 and an animal-like exhibit 68 and the winter stage section 40 may include a tree-like exhibit 70, a decoration 72, a stuffed I
doll 74 and a doll 76.
In the illustrated embodiment, each of the above-de~cribed exhibits is provided therein with an actuation mochanism for actuating the exhibit upon detection of a predetermined physical stimulus or sound of a predetermined level or more. The actuation mechanism may include an actu~tion device driven, for exampie, by a motor and a drive circuit for driving the actuation device through the notor which includes a sound sensor, so that the detection of sound of a predetermined lever or more by the sensor ~ I;
causes the drive circuit to actuate the actuation device in the form of movement, radiation, jetting or the like.
Thu8, in the illustrated embodiment, the supply of an el~ctrical energy to each of the exhibits is carried out through two stages of turning-on and turning off.
Now, the actuation mechanism will be illustratively described with reference to the flower-like exhibit 52. -For this purpose, such an actuation mechanism as disclosed ~-~ .

- :: : -: :
~. :: . : -_9_ in Japanese Patent Application No. 190822/1988 may be used, which is constructed as shown in Figs. 3 to 5. More -~
particularly, the actuation mechanism for the flower-like exhibit 52 includes an actuation device including a bendable or flexible core 78 arranged in a pot member 80 in a manner to upward extend therefrom through a cover 81 of the pot 80, a motor 82 for rotating the core 78, and a stem member 84 fitted on the core 78 and having a flower-like decoration mounted on the upper end thereof. The stem 84 is fixedly mounted at the lower end thereof on the cover 81 of the pot 80. The actuation mechanism also includes a sound sensor 86 arranged at the pot 80 and electrically connected to the motor 82, which constitute a part of a drive circuit 88 of the actuation mechanism as shown in Fig. 5. Such construction permits the drive circuit 88 to actuate the actuation device when the sound sensor 86 detects sound of a predetermined level or more. Also, the actuation mechanism is electrically connected to a driving unit described below and indicated at reference numeral 118 in Fig. 6, which is adapted to supply an electric power to the exhibit. The drive motor 82 is adapted to be driven ~ ;
when the sound sensor 86 detects sound of a predeterminèd ;
level or more, so that the exhibit 52 may be actuated.
More particularly, the supply of an electric power from the 25 driving unit 118 to the drive circuit 88 renders the sound -~
sensor 86 to be turned on, so that the sensor 86 detects sound of a predetermined level or more, leading to the turning-on of transistors 92, 94 and 96. This results in the drive motor 82 being actuated. The above-described ;~
construction of the actuation mechanism is also applicable to the flower-like exhibits 44, 46, 62 in substantially the same manner.
The basic construction of the above-described actuation mechanism of the flower-like exhibit 52 such as the provision of a sound sensor is applicable to the animal-like exhibits 42, 50, 56 and 68, bird-like exhibits :

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48 and 66, fish-like exhibit 58, glass-like exhibit 54 and doll-like exhibit 64. Thus, an actuation mechanism for each of these exhibits likewise includes an actuation device and a drive circuit. The drive circuit includes a sound sensor and may be constructed in substantially the same manner as that for the flower-like exhibit 52.
However, the actuation device is constructed in a somewhat different manner. For example, the actuation device for each of the animal-like exhibits may be constructed so as to move a head, feet and a tail and the actuation device for the fish-like exhibit 58 may be constructed so as to move its body. An actuation mechanism for the fountain- -~
like exhibit 60 may include a water jetting device in place of such an actuation device as described above and a drive circuit and an actuation mechanism for the decoration 72 may include a light-emitting or luminous device in place of the actuation device and a drive circuit for actuating the luminous device. The luminous device may comprise an ;
optical fiber element. An actuation mechanism for the doll 20 76 may include a luminous device and a drive circuit for ~
actuating the luminous device. The luminous device of the ~ -doll 76 may be constructed in such a manner that an optical -~
fiber element is arranged in a dress of the doll so as to be exposed at the tip end thereof from the dress and at least one electric lamp is arranged in the dress, so that the turning-on of the lamp causes light to be emitted from the exposed tip end of the optical fiber element through the fiber element. The drive circuit for each of the exhibits 60 and 72 may be constructed in substantially the same manner. The tree-like exhibit 70 may include a luminous device put on a tree body in imitation of a Christmas tree and a drive circuit for actuating the -luminous display. Alternatively, each of the above-described luminous devices may be replaced with a sound 35 generating device. -Also, the exhibition system of the illustrated ~

,............................... , ................... ~ ............ ~, . ::

`: ' , ' ~: ., : :: ' embodiment includes at least one sound generating means or loudspeaker 98 on the stage 30. The sound generating means 98 may be arranged under the main exhibits. In the illustrated embodiment, the sound generating means 98 are arranged under the flower-like exhibit 44 of the central stage section 36, the animal-like exhibit 50 of the spring stage section 32, the animal-like exhibit 56 of the summer stage section 38, the doll-like exhibit 64 of the autumn stage section 34 and the stuffed doll 74 of the winter lQ stage section 40, each of which comprises a loudspeaker.
Further, the exhibition system includes an illumination means 100 arranged on the lower side of the rear portion of the stage 30 and a background board 102 arranged at the lower portion of the stage 50 so as to upwardly extend therefrom. The background board 102 constitutes a background of the stage 30. On the upper end of the screen board 102 are arranged illumination means 104, sound generating means 106, projection means 108 and the like. Illumination means 104 may be also provided on ~ -~
an upper portion of a wall 109 which may be arranged opposite to the stage 30, as shown in Fig. 2. Also, at the lower portion of the wall 109 may be provided at least one projector 110 in a manner to be opposite to the screen board 102. The illumination means 100 and 104, sound -generating means or loudspeakers 106, projection means 108 and projectors 110 serve as sound and light effects means for forming scenes suitable for the respective seasons corresponding to the stage sections 32, 34, 38 and 40 on i`~
the background board 102.
For the sake of permitting the exhibition system of the illustrated embodiment to control the movement of the exhibits in association with sound, a story developed as described below is stored or recorded in an image ~ , information storing or recording section of a VTR tape.
The animal-like exhibit 42 and flower-like exhibit 44 on the central stage section 36 are set so as to act as 20043~

a main master of ceremonies for the overall stage 30.
Also, the animal-like exhibit 50 on the spring stage section 32, the animal-like exhibit 56 on the summer stage section 38, the doll-like exhibit 64 on the autumn stage 5 section 34 and the stuffed doll 74 on the winter stage -~
section 40 are set so as to act as local masters of ~`
ceremonies for the respective stage sections. The sensors of the main master, local masters and remaining exhibits are electrically connected to one another, and the sensors of the remaining exhibits also are electrically connected together in parallel. The switching of the respective exhibi-ts and the switching of the illumination means, sound generating means, projection means and projectors are ~
controlled according to a predetermined control program. -lS The turniny-on of the exhibits leads to the actuation of the respective sound sensors. At this time, when each of the sensors detects any external sound of a predetermined level or more, it actuates the corresponding actuation, water jetting or light emitting device, resulting in the 20 exhibit being actuated in a predetermined manner. On the ~ ~
contrary, the turning-off of the exhibits causes the non- --~-actuation of the sensors, so that the exhibits are kept ~
stationary. `
For example, a story employed in the control program for the exhibition or display system of the present invention may be constructed in the following manner.
First, a music is played while the hall of the exhibition system defined between the background board and the wall 109 is kept dark. Then, as soon as a spotlight is directed form, for example, the projectors 110 onto the animal-like exhibit 42 and flower-like exhibit 44 on the central stage section 36 serving as the main master of the ceremonies, music is played through the sound generating means 98 and narration "Hallow everybody. I am a ----. I
am a ___. n is generated therethrough. Concurrently, the animal-like exhibit 42 and flower-like exhibit 44 on the ,, ' ~ ':''. :' ', "'"

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central stage section 36 start to be actuated according to the narration. Then, the main master introduces the exhibits on the spring stage section 32. Simultaneously, the spring stage section 32 is illuminated and the sectional master 50 on the spring stage section 32 starts narration concerning the spring. At this time, when the sectional mater 50 talks to the remaining exhibits 46 and - 48 on the section 32, they answer all together through the ~ ;-sound generating means 98 and start to be actuated through the sound sensors. Subsequently, the main master on the central stage section 36 introduces the sectional master or animal-like exhibit 56 on the summer stage section 38, which starts narration concerning the summer. Likewise, the autumn and winter stage sections 34 and 40 are introduced. Also, stories for the respective stage sections are developed while an image and/or a shadow ~ `
picture corresponding to each of the seasons are projected on the screen board 102 and a tree 112 through the projection means 108 and projectors 110. During the development, when audiences clap their hands according to the master's narration "ladies and gentlemen, clap please", the sensors of the exhibits actuate to move the exhibits.
Alternatively, the exhibition system may be so constructed that the audiences call to the master other than clap their hands.
Thus, it will be noted that the exhibition system constructed as described above permits the exhibits each including the actuation mechanism provided with the sensor to be electrically connected together and actuated or played according to a predetermined program or story, as well as produces a situation that any communication is `
established between the exhibits and audiences due to the audiences' clapping or the like. Also, the exhibition system permits the story or the actuation of the exhibits to be controlled according to the progress of a tape.
Further, the actuation mechanisms of the exhibits are 20043~.~
-14- ;`
constructed independent from one another, so that the elimin~tion of the electrical connection between the exhibits and the arrangement of a power supply in each of the exhibits permit the exhibits to be dealt in as S individual goods.
As can be seen from the foregoing, the display or exhibition system of the illustrated embodiment permits a plurality of the exhibits to be actuated in association with one another and/or audiences by means of the control program, so that the exhibits may be moved depending on the action of the audiences on the exhibits and/or the ! :: I
interaction between the exhibits. This results in any ,~
heart-warming communication being formed between the audiences and the exhibits and between the exhibits, so that the exhibition system may exhibit a significant display effect.
Fig. 6 shows the general construction of the large- `
scale exhibition system described above. The exhibition ;
system generally includes a high-fidelity video tape 20 recorder (Hi-Fi VTR) 114 for reading out a sound date such `~
as music, narration and the like and a control program data stored in a VTR tape, a central processing unit (CPU) 116 ~;
for generating a control indicating signal serving to control a plurality of the exhibits and the like according to the control program data supplied from the VTR 114 thereto, and a driving unit 118 for carrying out the interface processing of the control program data supplied from the VTR 114 to supply the processed data to the CPU
116 and for driving a plurality of the illumination means 104 and sound generating means or loudspeaker 98 according to the control indicating signal supplied from the CPU 116 and using the sound data supplied from the VTR 114. The ~ ;-driving unit 118 is connected to the VTR 114, CPU 116, a ~ ,' plurality of the exhibits, and effects units 120 including 35 the above-described illumination means, sound generating ' `~
means, projection means, projectors and the like. In Fig.
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, . . - : , :

~ . : ~ . : : : : : : . . . : . - . : .. :

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6, the exhibits are collectively designated by reference character A.
Now, the driving unit 118 will be described more detailedly with reference to Fig. 7.
The driving unit 118 is connected to the VTR 114 -and CPU 116 and includes a first interface 122 and a second ; -interface 124 connected to each other for carrying out the ~ ~
interface processing of the control program data supplied ~ ~ -from the VTR 114 to supply the processed data to the CPU
116 and carrying out the interface processing of the control indicating signal supplied from the CPU 116. The interface-processed control indicating signal comprises an exhibit drive control signal for controlling the driving of the exhibits, an exhibit selecting signal for selectively driving the exhibits, an illumination driving signal for driving the illumination means 104, an illumination selecting signal for selectively driving the illumination means 104, and a loudspeaker selecting signal for selectively driving the sound generating means or loudspeakers. To the second interface 124 are connected an AC selector 126 for selectively supplying an electric power ~' from the second interface 124 to the drive circuit 88 (Fig.
5) of each of the exhibits A according to the exhibit selecting signal and a sensor signal from each of the sound sensors 86 and first to fourth DC selectors 128, 130, 132 and 134. Also, the second interface 124 is connected thereto a first illumination selector 136 and a second illumination selector 138 for selectively supplying the illumination driving signal from the second interface 124 therethrough to a plurality of the illumination means 104 according to the illumination selecting signal. Further, - `
the second interface 124 is connected thereto a loudspeaker selector 140 for selectively supplying the sound data from the VTR 114 to the loudspeaker 98 according to the loudspeaker selecting signal.
To the first and second DC selectors 128 and 130 ~ ~

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200~

are connected first auxiliary DC power supply 140 and a second auxiliary DC power supply 144. respectively, which are changed over by a plurality of switches 146 to supply an electric power as a part of the electric power for driving the exhibits to the drive circuits 88 of the exhibits A. --~
As described above, the exhibits A is provided with ~ -the drive circuit 88 constructed as shown in Fig. 5, so that the sound sensor 86 of each of the exhibits A to which 10 an electric power is supplied by means of the AC selector ;~ ;
126 and DC selectors 128, 130, 132 and 134 is turned on.
Thus, when any sound of a predetermined level or more such as music, narration or the like is generated from the loudspeaker 98, the transistors 92, 94 and 96 of the drive 15 circuit 88 are turned on to drive the motor 82, resulting ~ ;;;
in each exhibit A being actuated. ;
Thus, if the sound data and control program are stcred in a tape of the VTR 114 so that only the drive -~
circuit 88 of any specific exhibit generating sound of a predetermined level or more through the sound generating means or loudspeaker 98, for example, such as the animal~
li~e exhibit 42 is supplied thereto an electric power for driving when the sound is generated from the exhibit 42, a situation that only the animal-like exhibit 42 is talking 25 while moving may be produced. Also, when the sound data ~;
and control program are prepared so that some of the exhibits A are supplied with an electric power for a ~ . , predetermined period of time after narration which requests audiences to clap or call to the exhibits, the audiences' clapping carried out after the lapse of the time causes the exhibits to be actuated in response to the clapping.
In the illustrated embodiment described above, the drive motor 82 is provided in the exhibit A, however, it ,: -. ~ -may be arranged in the exhibit together with the ~ -illumination means 104 and sound generating means 98.
Also, the exhibits each may be provided with only the sound `~
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'' "':':~.', ,' 20043~4 generating means 98. Alternatively, the exhibits A may be provided with the above-described sound sensor and/or a sensor for detecting visible rays, light rays, infrared rays, radio waves or the like, so that the exhibits or sound generating and illumination means may be actuated according to a predetermined program when the sensor detects external light rays.
In addition, the projection of an image or the like on the screen board 102 may bc carried out by arranging a projector fGr projecting an image on the screen board 102, storing a sound data and an image data of the four seasons in the VTR tape, and controlling the generation of the sound and the projection of the image.
In the illustrated embodiment described above, only one driving unit 118 is used. However, a plurality of the driving units 118 may be used in a manner to be connected ¦ ~ `
together in parallel as shown in Fig. 7, so that the exhibition system of a larger scale may be constructed. In this instance, the control program, sound data and image data may be prepared in conformity to the number of connections.
Now, a method and an apparatus for preparing the VTR tape in which the control program and data are stored will be described hereinafter with reference to Figs. 9 and 10.
An apparatus for preparing such a specific VTR tape is constructed so as to supply only the sound data from a VTR 148 to a recording input terminal 150 of the VTR 114 ;;~
and supply the control program serving as the image data m~
from a personal computer 152 to the the recording input terminal 150. The control program is prepared by dubbing 1 ~
or the like while observing a display 154 of the personal ¦ I ' computer 152. , :~
Thus, the apparatus constructed as described above .
permits a VTR tape 156 including a video track section 158 ~-on which the control program prepared by the personal ','. ;'.''''''.'', ,. ~ ', . ,',.
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computer 152 is stored and an audio track section 160 on which the sound data is stored, as shown in Fig. 10.
The control program includes a setting mode program -for setting a process for selectively driving the motor 82, illumination means 104, sound generating means 98 and the like in view of the situation and/or time and an execution program for executing the process in the setting mode. In -;
the setting mode, for example, an image plane shown in Fig.
11 is indicated on the display 154 at every time (reference ~ -numeral 162). Objects to be actuated such as the exhibits, sound generating means and the like are set in columns or n regions 164 of the image plane, resulting in the preparation of the execution program at each time being possible.
On the image place, each region 164 is displayed by ~`
white and black when it is at ON and OFF states, respectively. More particularly, a video record carrier is used which includes a video track having track sections corresponding to a plurality of the regions 164 obtained by dividing the image plane on a cathode ray tube (CRT) 166 (Fig. 7) corresponding to a plurality of the objects ~
including exhibits 42, illumination means 104, loudspeaker ; l`
98, projection means 108 and the like. In the track sections is stored, in time-series, a supply ON-OFF signal ;~
for indicating the switching of supply of an electrical energy such as electric power for driving, sound data, image data, operation signal and the like to the objects according to a predetermined program such as a predetermined combination of the objects and a predetermined order of the objects. The video record carrier in which the supply ON-OFF signal is thus stored is used as a control program carrier.
Thus, a predetermined track section of the video track corresponds to a predetermined object, as well as a 35 predetermined region on the image plane. -On the control program carrier is preferably stored . :",. :. :.
: . .,: , , ' :'"",':' ":~'' "'''',''',,' ~ ' ' ,,''- ,' 200~3~

the sound data (through its audio track) in synchronism with the supply ON-OFF signal.
The sound sensor may be provided at every object or every object group predetermined so as to serve as a switch for the drive circuit of each object. Such construction permits the sensor to actuate the object or group upon detection of a start signal which is sound generated from the sound generating means of the object or group depending upon the sound data or detection of sound due to audiences' clapping or the like, when each object is selectively supplied with an electrical energy such as an electric power, an operation signal or the like.
For the start signal may be used visible rays, light rays, ultraviolet rays, infrared rays, ultrasonic waves, an electrical power or the like other than the above-described sound. In this instance, a photosensor, an ultraviolet sensor, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a receiver or the like may be suitably used as the sensor of the actuation mechanism correspondingly.
For a start signal generator may be selectively used a loudspeaker, a lighting equipment, a floodlight, a projector, an infrared lamp, an ultraviolet lamp, an ultrasonic generator or the like depending upon the above-described start signal.
The actuation of the object may be carried out in such a manner that at least a part of the object is deformed, moved and/or rotated. Alternatively, it may be ~
actuated in a manner to generate sound or light, carry out `- ;~;
the deformation or discolorination by generating heat, form an image by projection, bring out a fluorescent color due to the emission of ultraviolet rays, or emit microwaves for actuating any other object. Also, the actuation may be ;;~
carried out by any combination of above-described manners. -~
The control program is preferably prepared using a ~- ~
35 Hi-Fi VTR- ' ,,,'.' ' "'~ '.'~,.' '''';; ''',.'' "' ,:.. ,. ~

zoo~

A circuit for the driving unit 118 will be more detailedly described hereinafter with reference to Fig. 12.
The elements of the driving unit 90 may be constructed as shown in Figs. 12 to 15. ~-The loudspeaker selector 140 may be constructed in such a manner as shown in Fig. 12, the DC selector 128, 130, 132 and 134 each may be constructed as shown in Fig.
13, and the illumination selector 136 and 138 and the AC
- selector 126 each may be constructed as shown in Fig. 14.
In the illustrated embodiment, the driving unit 90 may include a terminal board as shown in Fig. 15. More particularly the terminal board may includes a power supply switch 168, a loudspeaker output terminal 170, a DC output ;~terminal 172, illumination/AC output terminals 174 and 176, a fuse terminal 178, a connector 180 for an expansion unit, a sound signal input terminal 182, an expansion connector ~
184, a CPU interface connector 186, a fuse terminal 188 and ~ `
a main power supply terminal 190.
The above-described record medium such as a VTR
tape, audio tape or the like may be dubbed in the form of a laser disc, a compact disc or the like for the purpose of `-selling it.
In the illustrated embodiment, the supply of an electrical energy to the objects such as the exhibits, sound generating means or loudspeakers, illumination means, projection means, projector and the like is carried out using the ON-OFF two-stage switching, which is displayed at the white-black indication on the image plane. However, ~` ~
the ON condition may be divided into a plurality of stages. `
30 For example, a variation in supply voltage may cause the ON ;
condition indicating the supply of an electrical energy to ~:
be subject to a multi-stage variation, to thereby carry out a multistage variation in the speed of movement of each -~
exhibit or the intensity of the illumination means. In 35 this instance, the indication on the region of the image ` ~-~
:, ~:,~ ',-"~:

"; ,'."i'",' .: '.,.

200`~

plane corresponding to the object may be carried out using a multicolor method. Alternatively, it may be carried out by means of a multistage indication using a simple figure.
In the illustrated embodiment, as the control program carrier may be used a video tape, a video disc, a laser disc or the like.
As described above, the illustrated embodiment is so constructed that the ON-OFF control of actuation of each of the objects is carried out corresponding to the ON-OFF
indication on the corresponding region of the image frame or plane. Such construction not only highly facilitates the manufacturing and correction of the program tape and permits the detail of the program to be readily grasped during the progress of the program as well as at sight, but 15 permits commonly used articles such as commercially-~
available video tape, VTR, CRT and the like to be used.
The actuation of each of the objects may be ~
controlled by means of ultrasonic waves using an apparatus ~;
generally designated by reference numeral 191 in Fig. 16.
In the apparatus 191 of Fig. 16, a record medium 192 such ~ ;
as a cassette tape, a video tape, a magnetic tape or the like is used which includes one track 194 having ultrasonic -~
actuation drive signal 196 using sound waves exceeding an audio-frequency range recorded thereon and the other track 198 having an audible sound signal 200 within the audio-frequency range recorded thereon. The apparatus shown in Fig. 16 includes a ultrasonic wave reproducing head 202 for picXing up the ultrasonic actuation drive signal 196 on the track 194, an ultrasonic wave amplification circuit 204 for amplifying the drive signal 196 and a loudspeaker 206, as well as an audible wave reproducing head 208 for picking up the audible sound signal 200 on the track 198, a sound ~ ;
amplification circuit 210 for amplifying the sound signal 200 and a loudspeaker 212. -The drive circuit 88 of the actuation mechanism of -'''" '"'"""'' '' ~ ""
, :.'.': '-200~3~

the exhibit includes an ultrasonic sensor 214 as well as the sound sensor 86, which are connected together in series, so that the drive motor 82 connected to the drive circuit 88 is driven depending on the ultrasonic actuation drive signal 196 detected by the ultrasonic sensor 214.
When the control apparatus 191 constructed as described above is actuated, the ultrasonic actuation drive -~
signal 196 recorded on the track 194 of the cassette tape - -192 is picked up through the ultrasonic wave reproducing head 102, amplified through the ultrasonic wave amplification circuit 204 and then output in the form of an ultrasonic wave from the loudspeaker 206. The ultrasonic sensor 214 provided in the exhibit receives the ultrasonic -actuation drive signal 196 from the loudspeaker 206, so that the sensor 214 causes the drive circuit 88 to be turned on. Simultaneously, the audible sound signal 200 recorded on the track 198 of the record medium or cassette tape 192 is picked up through the audible wave reproducing head 208, amplified through the sound amplification circuit 210 and then output in the form of the ultrasonic wave 216 from the loudspeaker 212. The ultrasonic wave i9 then detected by the sound sensor 86, resulting in the drive circuit 88 being turned on. The drive circuit 88 is thus ;
turned on by the ultrasonic sensor 214 and sound sensor 86, `~
so that the drive motor may be driven to actuate or move the exhibit. The exhibit may be actuated only when the ,~ ;
ultrasonic sensor 214 receives the ultrasonic actuation drive signal 196 from the loudspeaker 206. In this instance, the sound sensor 86 may be eliminated or `
connected in parallel to the ultrasonic sensor 214.
Likewise, the effects means such as the illumination means 104, sound generating means 106, projection means 108, ;`
projector 110 and the like may be controllably actuated by only the ultrasonic sensor. - ~
.... ........
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., ~ . ' .- ' ' ' ~ ~ ;' 200431~ `

Figs. 17 to 19 shows another or a second embodiment of an exhibition system according to the present invention.
The embodiment of Figs. 17 to 19 is constructed on a relatively middle scale and featured in that a stereo 5 deck is used in place of the VTR in the above-described -first embodiment and an audio tape used in the stereo deck has two channels, of which one has a sound data such as narration, music and the like recorded thereon and the ~ ~
other has a control program data recorded thereon, so that ~-10 the control program permits exhibits to be actuated with -stereo sound. More particularly, the exhibition system of the embodiment includes, in addition to exhibits constructed in substantially the same manner as in the first embodiment described above, a radio cassette 218 for 15 reading out the sound data and control program from the " -audio tape, a CPU 220 for supplying a control indicating signal for controlling objects such as the exhibits and the like according to the control program supplied from the radio cassette 218, a DC selector 222 for selectively driving each of the exhibits and its loudspeaker depending upon the control indicating signal supplied from the CPU
220, an AC selector 224 and an audio switch 226, as shown in Fig. 17. The control program may be prepared so that predetermined exhibits may move or speak corresponding to the recorded sound, as in the first embodiment.
Figs. 20 to 23 show an electric circuit of a ;~
further or third embodiment of an exhibition system according to the present invention. An exhibition system of the third embodiment uses a stereo deck such as a radio cassette or the like as in the second embodiment. However, a logic circuit is substituted for the CPU 220 in the ~ ;
second embodiment for the purpose of forming a power supply circuit for supplying an electric power for driving.
Exhibits A may be constructed in substantially the same manner as in the first embodiment described above. Also, as shown in Fig. 23, an audio tape 228 used in a stereo -~ :~" .. .

`, - ,, ~ .: . :. ':' ' ' ' . :- :, ' Z004;~14 deck 218 incorporated in the third embodiment includes an -L-channel 230 and an R-channel 232, which are provided with sound sections 234 having narration or the like recorded thereon and sound-free sections 236 each interposed between S the sound sections 234, so that an electric power for driving may be selectively supplied to the exhibits A
depending upon the sound data recorded on the sound sections 234. Also, it may be constructed in such a manner that under the conditions that the sound-free section 236 ;~ -~
is detected to supply an electric power to the exhibit and a sound sensor of the exhibit is placed in an actuatable state, the exhibit is actuated when the sensor detects ;~-sound of audiences, resulting in forming a situation that any communication is established between the exhibit and the audiences.
The exhibition system of the illustrated embodiment is preferably constructed on a relatively small scale. For example, the exhibition system is applicable to such a `
Christmas party as shown in Fig. 24 or such a St.
Valentine's party as shown in Fig. 25. Alternatively, the exhibition system may be placed on an information desk of a ~ `
bank. In this instance, the exhibits A may be in the form ~ `
of a parrot, so that the beak and wings of each of the ; ~;
parrots may be actuated corresponding to conversation which 25 recommends credit cards to customers. Also, the exhibition ` ~;
system may be used as a propaganda medium for business.
The circuit of the third embodiment is not limited to that shown in Fig. 20. For example, it may be ~
constructed as shown in Fig. 26, wherein a malfunction `
preventing circuit is incorporated.
Fig. 27 is a perspective view showing still another `
embodiment of an exhibition system according to the present ;~
invention. An exhibition system of the illustrated embodiment includes a stage 30 formed into a rectangular 35 parallelepiped, illumination means 238 arranged on both~-- i sides of the front portion of the stage 30, and a ;

. - : . .. ..
.. -- - - . . . . . .

200A3~4 background board 102 on the rear end of the stage 30. The stage 30 is formed on the central portion thereof with a small hole 240 for receiving a microphone therein. Also, ~- -on the stage 30 are arranged a pair of flower-like exhibits 44 in a manner to be spaced from each other. The flower-like exhibits 44 each are provided with an actuation - -mechanism including a sound sensor 86. The actuation -~
mechanism comprises an actuation device and a drive circuit including the above-described sound sensor 86. The actuation device, as shown in Fig. 28, includes a motor unit 242 comprising a drive motor 82 arranged in a pot-like ~`
member 80 and reduction gear means (not shown) integrally connected to the drive motor 82, a gear 246 operatively `- `~
connected to the motor unit 242 and having a shaft upwardly ;~
extending from the gear 246, a wire-like core 78 fixed on i~
the distal end of the gear shaft and arranged so as to upwardly extend from the pot 80, and a hollow stem member ~
84 of the exhibit loosely fitted on the core 78. Such ;
construction permits the core 78 to be rotated to move the ~
20 stem member 84, resulting in the exhibit 44 being :
meanderingly actuated when the drive motor 82 is driven.
The illumination means 238 each comprise an electric lamp and are arranged in a box disposed on each of `
both sides of the front portion of the stage 30. Each of ~
25 the illumination means 238 is electrically connected to the ~ ~ :
drive motor 82 of each of the flower-like exhibits 44. The drive circuit of the actuation mechanism including the sound sensor 87, drive motor 82 and illumination means 238 may be constructed as shown in Fig. 29.
On the stage 30 is arranged a loudspeaker, which ' comprises a loudspeaker 254 of a radio cassette 218. A ~ , control program for actuating the illumination means 238, loudspeaker 254 and exhibits 44 may be stored in memory ~`
means using a music tape and read out by means of the radio cassette 218. A controller 256 for the exhibits 44 and illumination means 238 is received in the stage 30.

,~: `:.' .
, .

, ~:

.

: . ,. . , ,"
. - . ...

20043~4 The control program may be constructed as shown in Fig. 30. More particularly, an audio or music tape 228 used in the radio cassette 218 includes an L-channel 230 and an R-channel 232, which are provided with sound sections 234 and sound-free sections 236, so that the --~
sound-free sections 236 of the R~track 232 render one of the exhibits 44 turned off and the sound-free section 236 of the L-track 230 render the other exhibit 44 turned off.
Also, when the sound-free section 21 of both tracks lO coincide with each other, the microphone in the small hole ~ :
240 is turned on. Such construction causes sound to be generated from the radio cassette 218 when the music tape is charged therein. Also, both exhibits 44 are actuated and the illumination means are turned on to lead to ~ -irradiation when the sound sections 234 of both tracks 230 and 232 coincide with each other, so that audiences may be -~ ;
impressed as if the exhibits are dancing in time to the --~
music generated from the radio cassette. Then, when the sound-free section 21 of only the R-track 232 is picked up through a reproducing head 258 and amplified through a reproducing amplifier 260, the sound sensor 86 of the corresponding exhibit 44 is turned off to stop the actuation of the exhibit 44. In this instance, when sound is recorded on the sound sections 234, audiences may be impressed as if the corresponding exhibit 44 is talking to the other exhibit 44. When the sound-free sections 236 of both tracks are picked up, the sound sensors 86 of both exhibits 44 are turned off to stop the actuation of the exhibits; whereas the microphone in the small hole 240 is turned on to catch sound of audiences due to clapping or the like, so that the audiences may be impressed as if the exhibits move in response to clapping of the audiences.
In the illustrated embodiment, two such exhibits are arranged. However, a number of such exhibits may be ~ --arranged. In this instance. the exhibits may be put in two groups, so that they may be respectively controlled by both .. .
. ' ''~'~' 200'i3~4 tracks of the music tape. Also, the control program is not --limited to the control by the music tape. It may be so ~ ;-constructed that when the sound-free sections 236 or sound sections 234 of both tracks are picked up, the sound sensors may be turned on. In this instance, the microphone arranged in the small hole 240 may be eliminated.
As described above, the exhibition system of the illustrated embodiment is so constructed that the objects such as the exhibits 44, illumination means 238, loudspeaker 254 and the like are actuated upon detection of sound of a predetermined level or more. Such construction -permits audiences to be impressed as if there are any communication between the exhibits 44 and 44 or between the ~ -exhibits 44 and the audiences, resulting in significantly - -15 enhancing the exhibition effect to a degree sufficient to ~ ;~
attract consumers to the system. ~ ;
The exhibition system of the embodiment, as shown in Fig. 31, may be modified so as to include a pair of ~ ;
movable loudspeakers 262 serving as exhibits which are formed in imitation of a flower and arranged opposite to each other. The loudspeakers 262 each include an actuation -~
mechanism for pivotally moving a stem section 264 of the ~ ~-loudspeaker back and forth and openably actuating a flower section 266. The modification of Fig. 31 may also include 25 a stage on which the loudspeaker is arranged, illumination ;;~
means for irradiating the loudspeaker 262, a memory means for storing therein a control program for driving the actuation mechanism, readout means for reading out the control program from the memory means, and a controller, which may be constructed in substantially the same manner as in the embodiment shown in Figs. 27 to 30. The actuation mechanism may be constructed as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application No. 247837/1988. At least one loudspeaker free of a sound sensor may be arranged.
The above-described construction of the ~ ;~
modification permits audiences to be impressed as if there ,. .
, . . '.

r 200~3~ ~

is any communication between the loudspeakers 262 and 262 and/or between the loudspeakers 262 and the audiences.
Alternatively, the embodiment of Fig. 27 may be --, ~:-.
modified in such a manner that the illumination means is 5 provided with an independently moving mechanism so that the ~ `
illumination means may carry out illumination upon actuation of a photo-sensor. The modification also may ~`
include such a stage and loudspeakers as shown in Fig. 27. ~ -The illumination means may comprise an electric lamp fitted in such a loudspeaker as shown in Fig. 31. Further, the modification may include an actuation mechanism constructed in substantially the same manner as in Fig. 31. In ;~
addition, a music tape may be employed which includes two tracks of which one has an ON-OFF signal for a power supply stored thereon and the other has an ON-OFF signal for the photo-sensor of the lamp stored thereon. Such construction -~ `
permits each of the two illumination means to emit light ~ -and move upon detection of light emitted from the opposite illumination means as well as sound of a predetermined ~
20 level or more generated from the loudspeakers. ~ ;
Thus, it will be noted that the modification -exhibits substantially the same exhibition effects as the embodiment of Fig. 27.
It will thus be seen that the objects set forth 25 above, among those made apparent from the preceding -~
description, are efficiently attained and, since certain changes may be made in the above construction without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. ;~
It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all the generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the invention which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.

r: - -

Claims

1. An exhibition system comprising:
memory means for storing at least a sound data and a control program data therein;
readout means for reading out said sound data and control program data from said memory means;
a plurality of exhibits each including an actuation mechanism provided with detection means for detecting a predetermined physical stimulus, said actuation mechanism being actuated when said detection means detects said physical stimulus;
sound generating means; and control means for controlling the actuation of said sound generating means and detection means depending upon said control program data read out through said readout means.

2. An exhibition system as defined in Claim 1, wherein said detection means comprises a sound sensor.

3. An exhibition system as defined in Claim 1, wherein said memory means comprises a VTR tape and said readout means comprises a VTR.

4. An exhibition system as defined in Claim 3, wherein said VTR tape includes a video track section having said control program data stored thereon and an audio track section having said sound data stored thereon.

5. An exhibition system as defined in Claim 1, wherein said control means comprises a CPU for generating a control indicating signal depending upon said control program data read out through said readout means and at least one selector for selectively actuating said exhibits depending upon said control indicating signal supplied from said CPU.

6. An exhibition system as defined in Claim 1, wherein said memory means comprises an audio tape and said readout means comprises a stereo deck.

7. An exhibition system as defined in Claim 6, wherein said audio tape includes two channels of which one has said sound data stored thereon and the other has said control program data stored thereon.

8. An exhibition system comprising:
memory means for storing at least a sound data and a control program data therein;
readout means for reading out said sound data and control program data from said memory means sound generating means for generating sound depending upon said sound data read out through said readout means;
a plurality of exhibits each including an actuation mechanism driven by an electric power and detecting and switching means for detecting a predetermined physical stimulus to change over the supply of said electric power to said actuation mechanism;
control means for causing said electric power to be selectively supplied to said exhibits depending upon said control program read out through said readout means.

9. An exhibition system as defined in Claim 8, wherein said detection means comprises a sound sensor.

10. An exhibition system comprising:
memory means for storing a sound data which includes at least sound-free sections intermittently arranged;
readout means for reading out said sound data from said memory means;
means for generating sound depending upon said sound data read out through said readout means;
a plurality of exhibits each including at least actuation means actuated by means of an external electric power and detecting and switching means detecting a predetermined physical stimulus to switching the supply of the electric power to said actuation means; and electric power supply circuit for selectively supplying the electric power to said exhibits.

11. An exhibition system comprising:
a plurality of exhibits each including an actuation mechanism provided with a sensor, said actuation mechanism being actuated when said sensor detects a predetermined physical stimulus;
a stage on which said exhibits are arranged;
illumination means for irradiating said exhibits with light beams;
sound generating means;
memory means for storing therein a control program for actuating said illumination means, sound generating means and exhibits;
readout means for reading out said control program from said memory means; and a controller.

12. An exhibition system comprising:
sound generating means actuated when a sensor detects a predetermined physical stimulus a stage;
illumination means for irradiating said sound generating means with light beams;
memory means for storing therein a control program for actuating said sound generating means and illumination means;
readout means for reading out said control program from said memory means; and a controller.

13. An exhibition system comprising:
illumination means actuated when a sensor detects a predetermined physical stimulus;
a stage;
sound generating means;
memory means for storing therein a control program for actuating said sound generating means and illumination means;

readout means for reading out said control program from said memory means; and a controller.

14. An exhibition system comprising:
a stage;
a plurality of movable exhibits each arranged on said stage and including an actuation mechanism for actuating said exhibit which is provided with a sensor for detecting a predetermined physical stimulus, said actuation mechanism being driven when said sensor detects said physical stimulus;
a background arranged on the rear portion of said stage so as to upwardly extend therefrom;
effects means including sound generating means and light emitting means provided for forming at least two scenes on said background section;
memory and readout means for storing and reading out a predetermined control program data; and control means for controlling the actuation of said sound generating means and said sensor of each of said exhibits depending upon said control program readout from said memory.

15. An exhibition system as defined in Claim 14, wherein said sensor comprises a sound sensor for detecting sound waves including ultrasonic waves.

16. An actuation control method for carrying out time-series selection with respect to a plurality of objects according to a predetermined combination and order of the objects to supply an electrical energy to the selected objects, to thereby actuate the objects, comprising the steps of:
storing, in time-series according to the predetermined combination and order, a supply signal for indicating the supply of the electrical energy to the objects on first track sections of a track of a video record carrier corresponding to a plurality of regions obtained by dividing an image plane of an image receiver so as to correspond to a plurality of the objects;
successively reading out said supply signal in time-series;
selecting the objects corresponding to the regions corresponding to the first track sections on which the supply signal is stored and changing the supply of the electrical energy to a circuit for supplying the electrical energy to the objects in order, resulting in controlling the actuation of the objects.

17. A method as defined in Claim 16, wherein said video record carrier comprises a video tape.

18. A method as defined in Claim 16 or 17, wherein a sensor is provided for detecting a start signal for starting the actuation of the objects which is generated from start signal generating means;
said objects starts the actuation when the electrical energy is supplied to the objects and the sensor detects the start signal;
the video track of the video record carrier includes second track sections corresponding to regions obtained by dividing the image plane of the image receiver so as to correspond to the start signal generating means, said second track sections having an ON-OFF signal for indicating the switching of supply of the electrical energy to the corresponding start signal generating means stored thereon in time-series according to a predetermined combination and order of the start signal generating means;
said video record carrier includes an audio track on which a data of the start signal is stored;
said ON-OFF signal and start signal data in addition to the supply signal are successively read out in time-series;
the start signal generating means corresponding to the regions corresponding to the track sections on which the ON-OFF signal is stored is selected and the turning-on and turning-off of a circuit for supplying the start signal data to the selected start signal generating means are carried out in order, resulting in controlling the actuation of the objects.

19. A method as defined in Claim 18, wherein said start signal comprises sound and said sensor comprises a sound sensor.

20. An actuation control apparatus for carrying out time-series selection with respect to a plurality of objects according to a predetermined combination and order of the objects to supply an electrical energy to the selected objects, to thereby actuate the objects, comprising:
a control program data carrier constructed for storing, in time-series according to the predetermined combination and order, a supply signal for indicating the supply of the electrical energy to the objects on first track sections of a track of a video record carrier corresponding to a plurality of regions obtained by dividing an image plane of an image receiver so as to correspond to a plurality of the objects;
readout means for successively reading out said supply signal in time-series;
supply circuit selecting means for selecting, depending upon the read-out supply signal, an electrical energy supply circuit for supplying the electrical energy to the objects corresponding to the first track sections on which the supply signal is stored to change the supply of the electrical energy to the objects, resulting in controlling the actuation of the objects.

21. An apparatus as defined in Claim 20 further comprising image display means for simultaneously carrying out, depending upon the read-out supply signal, the image display of supply of the electrical energy on regions thereof corresponding to said track sections on which the supply signal is stored.

22. An apparatus as defined in Claim 20 or 21, wherein said objects each are so constructed that at least a part thereof is actuated.

23. An apparatus as defined in Claim 20 or 21, wherein said objects each includes sound generating means.

24. An apparatus as defined in Claim 20 or 21, wherein said objects each includes light emitting means.

25. An apparatus as defined in Claim 20 or 21, wherein said record carrier comprises a video tape.

26. An apparatus as defined in Claim 20 or 21, wherein a sensor is provided for detecting a start signal for starting the actuation of the objects which is generated from start signal generating means;
said objects starts the actuation when the electrical energy is supplied to the objects and said sensor detects the start signal;
said video track of said control program data carrier includes second track sections corresponding to regions obtained by dividing the image plane of the image receiver so as to correspond to said start signal generating means, said second track sections having an ON-OFF signal for indicating the switching of supply of the electrical energy to the corresponding start signal generating means stored thereon in time-series according to a predetermined combination and order of said start signal generating means;
said control program data carrier includes an audio track on which a data of the start signal is stored;
said readout means successively reads out said ON-OFF signal and start signal data in time-series;
a start signal data transmitting circuit is provided for transmitting the read-out start signal data to each of said sound generating means; and selection means is provided for carrying out, depending upon the read-out ON-OFF signal, the selection of said start signal data transmitting circuits with respect to said start signal generating means corresponding to said track sections on which the ON-OFF signal is stored.

27. An apparatus as defined in Claim 26, wherein said video track of said control program data carrier is provided with a section in which the supply signal with respect to at least one object is kept ON and all the ON-OFF signals are kept OFF; and said sensor detects start signals generated from audiences to actuate the objects while the data in the section is read out.

28. An apparatus as defined in Claim 26 or 27, wherein said start signal comprises sound and said sensor comprises a sound sensor.

29. An apparatus as defined in Claim 28, wherein said objects each includes an actuation device provided with a motor and a drive circuit for actuating the motor.

30. An apparatus as defined in Claim 28, wherein said sound sensor is incorporated in said drive circuit.

31. An apparatus as defined in Claim 28, wherein said sensor is arranged at the exterior of said drive circuit and connected to said drive circuit so that the output of said sensor is input to said supply circuit selecting means.

32. An apparatus as defined in Claim 27, wherein said start signal generating means comprises a loudspeaker.

33. A method of preparing an actuation control program tape by storing in a magnetic tape an actuation control program for carrying out time-series selection with respect to a plurality of objects according to a predetermined combination and order to supply an electrical energy selected objects, to thereby actuate the objects, comprising the steps of:
dividing an image plane of an image receiver into a plurality of regions corresponding to a plurality of the objects; and storing in time-series a supply signal for indicating the supply of the electrical energy to the objects on track sections of a track of a video record carrier corresponding to said regions according to a predetermined combination and order of the objects so that the display of said regions indicates a plurality of supply conditions of the electrical energy.

34. A method as defined in Claim 33, wherein said video tape includes an audio track section on which a sound data is stored so that sound may be generated in association with the actuation of the objects.

35. A method as defined in Claim 34, wherein a record medium is prepared on which a data of said sound is recorded;
an image data which is adapted to display the supply condition of the electrical energy on a region selected on the image receiver which corresponds to each of the objects to which the electrical energy is to be supplied in a predetermined amount for a predetermined period of time according to a predetermined combination and order of the objects and a sound data in said record medium corresponding to the predetermined period of time are recorded in said video tape by dabbing.