Disney might have a big thing with mice, but they’re big on the duck scene too.

Sure, you’ve got Donald Duck, but you’ve also got alllllll the ducks who reside in the Disney parks. We love those little guys! Now, Disney has invented some new tech that’s seriously amazing — but all we can focus on is the duck in the pictures. What does this waterfowl MEAN?

Today, we spotted a new patent filing for “Networked Smart Fixtures Supporting Visual Merchandise Designers with Remote Monitoring, Control, and Programming.” You’ve seen smart TVs but you HAVEN’T seen smart merchandise displays (quite like this) in stores!

This tech would get rid of the humdrum shelves we’re used to seeing and replace them with something that has more PIZZAZZ. Think, you’re shopping for a new Mickey plush of your choice on a display that features LCD screens, moving posters, and magically appearing signs — plus sound and lighting elements!

Typically, merchandise displays are spruced up with some lighting elements and physical elements that are mailed to stores to be assembled. This new tech would give a designer in one location access to redesign and reprogram merch displays across the country to coordinate with what is being sold. Not only does it make that designer’s job a whole lot easier, but it can also make for some pretty cool displays.

The backdrops of the display could change with the touch of a button to coordinate with the products.

The end cap could be converted to feature a magic, moving movie poster of the latest Disney film…

…hidden screens could be used to announce sales…

…and MORE!

But wait (record scratch, freeze frame), is that a DUCK?

Okay, yes the tech is very cool, but we just have one question for you, Disney. In what world is there a duck on the shelves? Does this patent imply that we’re going to be able to walk into our local Disney store and pick up a real live duck!? Is it a stuffed duck!? What Disney movie features ducks so heavily?

And FURTHERMORE, WHY did Disney use these scary masks and an AX as mock-up merchandise for this patent? We’re so confused. Typically Disney illustrates their new tech selling teddy bears or something. Ducks and ax murderers? The inventors must have been having a DAY.

In seriousness, it’s unlikely that the mock-up products illustrated in the patent have anything to do with what these displays will be selling in real life. But, it sure is funny that the tech illustrators just tossed a duck and an ax on the shelves.

Our shopping experience could look pretty different if we start to see this invention roll out in stores, and we’re excited to see it if it happens! As always, stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney tech updates!

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What Disney invention intrigues you the most? Let us know in the comments below. 

The post Does Disney Plan on Selling…Live Ducks?! first appeared on the disney food blog.