ICT in Eurodisney

The ICT Department travelled overseas for the first time on the 11th January 2010 for a three day study experience at Disneyland Paris. The students were given the opportunity to understand how ICT is used in the real world with a learning experience, interwoven with fun and practical exploration.

The students enjoyed three sessions whilst on the trip:

Session One: The ICT behind Roller Coasters and Animatronics
This session gave a brief overview of the Walt Disney Company, which then followed a talk by Senior Ride Engineer Mike Kent who discussed how ICT is essential for the development, maintenance and operation of the Resort’s roller coasters. He then went on to discuss ride developments, including 2D and 3D design, computer control, the use of spreadsheets for stress analysis and advancements in technology. Students then heard about the development of early animatronics, from the use of cogs to Digital Animation Control Systems. Through historical video footage from Walt Disney himself, students learned about the design, construction and maintenance of animatronics.

Session Two – Information Technology and Hotel Operations
This session discussed the work of the Resort’s Information Technology Department, investigating the size and scale of IT operations, bar code systems, back ups, virus protection and some software programmes designed specifically for Disneyland Resort. Pierre Hestir, IT Security Officer, talked to the students about the importance of maintaining backups, protecting data from viruses and hacking and the pyramid of defence.

Session Three – Computer Graphics and Communication
The session discussed computer graphics used in the Resort. The students learned of the use of software packages and graphic design aids and saw how CAD is used in the design of the cars used in the thrilling stunt show. Senior Graphic Designer Julia Gregory, discussed how CAD is essential to architectural, parade and attraction design, including some recent projects undertaken by and designers from Walt Disney Imagineering in Florida.