Originally posted by Timekeeper
I am assuming that the pods will begin and end at the same preshow room. In other words, if riders board Pod 3 from Room 3, the ride will come to an end with Pod 3 lined up with Room 3. I don't know the specific layout of the 4 "circles" and the unloading process, but my assumptions mean that passengers could leave their "luggage" in the adjacent exit room (if it's a seperate room) without fear of anyone touching it until their ride is complete - because their Pod would line back up with the room in which they boarded it from. This would seem like the most logical way to prevent damage to personal items and the need for a system of lockers.
Also,
Are they going to have sample "ride seats" at the exterior of the attraction? Universal's Islands of adventure has a pair of ride seats in front of each roller coaster attraction. This ensures that potential riders will be able to fit into the restraint and don't feel clostraphobic while "pinned down" like that. I have, too often, seen a "large" guest attempt to board a roller coaster only to realize, after waiting in line and in front of a large crowd, that he/she is too large for the restraint. Steps should be taken to prevent this and I think a sample seat/restraint out front is the best solution.
Also,
It's been mentioned that you can easily eye the obvious "mirror" / "monitor" effect prior to being seated at the idea ride-sight-level. In order to "preserve the magic" and "build anticipation," why not use a movable soft-screen in front of the array of 4 viewers similar to the ones used in Star Tours and Body Wars? That way the rider sees nothing (pertaining to the mirror/monitor) until they are already strapped into their seat, and the screen would shut before their restraints are unlocked. This may help prevent fingerprints and other "dirt" on the mirror/glass from [people like me]. The screen would be a great place to place more artwork, such as a nice large Horizons Logo!:sohappy:
Just some thoughts,
Tk
P.S.
If someone does "have an accident" in a Pod, and for all other custodial work and cleaning within the M:S facility, employees should use a cleaning solution "with orange" in it. There's something strangely futuristic about an orange scent in a modern building.