Bandalore Patents (Class 446/250)
  • Patent number: 11904251
    Abstract: A top toy includes a first shaft side component and a trunk part. The trunk part includes a trunk body, a moving body being rotatably configured with respect to the trunk body, and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is configured to lock releasably the moving member at a first position. The first shaft side component is rotatably configured with respect to the trunk part between first and second rotation positions. The trunk part is rotatably configured with respect to the first shaft side component when an external force is applied to the trunk part. The first shaft side component includes is a first projecting part. When the first projecting part is in contact with the locking mechanism, the locking mechanism is configured to release the moving member from the first position. The first and second shaft side components are interchangeable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: TOMY COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventors: Makoto Muraki, Yohei Bando, Takeaki Maeda
  • Patent number: 11865856
    Abstract: Aspects of the present invention relate to an anti-fidgeting device. In an aspect, the anti-fidgeting device includes a head, or a first member, that is coupled to a writing instrument. The writing instrument extends at least partially through the first member. The anti-fidgeting device includes a body, or a second member, that is coupled to the writing instrument. The writing instrument extends at least partially through the second member. The anti-fidgeting device includes a spinning mechanism that is positioned at least partially between the first member and the second member. The writing instrument extends through the spinning mechanism. The spinning mechanism is rotatable around the writing instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2024
    Inventors: Isabella Sofia Correas, Dasha Smallwood
  • Patent number: 10022637
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a hand-held yo-yo ball capable of manually storing energy, comprising two rotating bodies and a connecting shaft, where each rotating body comprises a disk body and a shell; one disk body is internally provided with a clutch mechanism, the other disk body is internally provided with an energy storage mechanism; two ends of the connecting shaft are respectively connected with the clutch mechanism and the energy storage mechanism; the rotating body at the end where the clutch mechanism is located is manually rotated, energy is stored in the energy storage mechanism, then the meshing state of the clutch mechanism is manually removed, so that the energy storage mechanism releases the energy to drive the two rotating bodies to rotate synchronously. In this way, the yo-yo ball can be rotated without throwing a ball body of the yo-yo ball by a rope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2018
    Assignees: Guangdong Alpha Animation and Culture Co., Ltd., Guangdong Auldey Animation & Toy Co., Ltd., Guangzhou Alpha Culture Communications Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Dongqing Cai
  • Patent number: 9737820
    Abstract: A toy gyro has a gyro ring that can be assembled at both sides and includes an axis body, gyro ring, tip and cover that are disposed on the axis body. A direction of mounting the gyro ring on the axis body may be turned over vertically, so that by turning over vertical orientations of the gyro ring on the axis body, gyros having different shapes or different heights of center of gravity may be formed. In other words, the gyro ring may be mounted on the axis body with a front side facing upwards, or the gyro ring may be mounted on the axis body with a reverse side facing upwards, so that during playing of the present invention, gyros having different shapes or having different heights of center of gravity may be formed by assembling of the gyro ring on the axis body in different directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignees: Guangdong Alpha Animation & Culture Co., Ltd., Guangdong Auldey Animation & Toy Co., Ltd., Guangzhou Alpha Culture Communications Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Dongqing Cai
  • Patent number: 9566529
    Abstract: A toy top includes: a body and a shaft part respectively having first and second portions facing each other in an up-down direction in a combined state; and a sliding contact surface which is on the first portion and abuts a projection on the second portion by biasing force of a biasing member. The projection continuously slides from a first position corresponding to a most deeply combined state to a second position corresponding to an uncombined state. The sliding contact surface is an inclined plane which, in the combined state: as a whole, inclines with respect to a plane at right angles to a shaft line of the shaft part; has a level in the up-down direction being continuously lower from the first position toward the second position; and can keep abutting the projection at an arbitrary point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2017
    Assignee: TOMY COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventor: Yukihiro Shindo
  • Patent number: 9468858
    Abstract: A transformable yo-yo includes two rotators and a connecting shaft. A through hole, into which the connecting shaft is inserted from two directions, is provided in the middle of each of the rotators. A connecting device, configured to connect and secure the connecting shaft, is provided in the through hole. By moving the connecting device, the connecting shaft can be released so that the rotators are separated from the connecting shaft. Back sides of the two rotators are oppositely connected to the connecting shaft, and connected and secured through the connecting device to assemble a yo-yo of a first form. After release, the front sides of the two rotators are oppositely connected to the connecting shaft, and secured through the connecting device as well to assemble a yo-yo of a second form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignees: Guangdong Alpha Animation & Culture Co., Ltd., Guangdong Auldey Animation & Toy Co., Ltd., Guangzhou Alpha Culture Communications Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Dongqing Cai
  • Patent number: 9079112
    Abstract: A rotatable performance device, such as a yo-yo, is modifiable such that the device can act as a relatively responsive device for beginners and a relatively stable device for advanced users. Spacers that facilitate these modifications and a method for configuring the spacers to change the device's responsiveness and stability are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Assignee: Flambeau, Inc.
    Inventors: Takahiko Hasegawa, Stuart Brown
  • Patent number: 8968049
    Abstract: A rotatable performance device, such as a yo-yo, is modifiable such that the device can act as both a relatively narrow looping yo-yo and a relatively wide string trick yo-yo. Inner lobe spacers that facilitate these modifications and a method for attaching the spacers to the rotatable performance device to change its play characteristics are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Flambeau, Inc.
    Inventor: Takahiko Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 8851954
    Abstract: This invention is a yo-yo with a non-spinning and externally accessible, independently rotating axle that functions as an accessory attachment system to which stunt attachments can be attached. Also described are a variety of possible trick and stunt accessories. Further disclosed is a bead, which surrounds the yo-yo string, such that recoil of the yo-yo is controlled through engagement with the internal wall of the rotating disks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Jim McCafferty, Steve Delacy, Greg Leong
  • Patent number: 8814626
    Abstract: The expanding and contracting yo-yo is a spool formed by a pair of disks connected by a narrow diameter pin having a string wound around the pin. At least one, and preferably both, of the disks has a plurality of overlapping wings (also referred to as air foils or leaves) pivotally attached to the periphery of the outer face of the disk. A biasing member causes the wings to remain in a closed dome configuration until the disks begin to spin. When the yo-yo is dropped and pulled back in, centrifugal force, centripetal force, alternate lift and drag of air flow, and resilient bias cause the wings to alternately pivot and unfold outward, followed by pivoting inward to a dome shape. In an alternative embodiment, the wings may be formed with a resilient living hinge that permits the wings to expand and contract against the body of the yo-yo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventor: Michael O. Smith
  • Patent number: 8764509
    Abstract: A yoyo comprises: a first yoyo side, which includes a first yoyo half, and a first sidecap, coupled to the first yoyo half; a second yoyo side, which includes a second you half and a weighting element, coupled to the second yoyo half, for balancing the first and second yoyo sides with respect to the center of the yoyo; and an axle, for connecting the first yoyo half the second yoyo half, and configured for being attached to a string. The first and second yoyo halves rotate together, and the first sidecap rotates about the yoyo's main axis independently of the first yoyo half. The weighting element may be a magnet that enables a user to perform tricks with the yoyo. Other variants are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Zachary Ross Lytle
  • Publication number: 20140045404
    Abstract: This invention is a yo-yo with a non-spinning and externally accessible, independently rotating axle that functions as an accessory attachment system to which stunt attachments can be attached. Also described are a variety of possible trick and stunt accessories. Further disclosed is a bead, which surrounds the yo-yo string, such that recoil of the yo-yo is controlled through engagement with the internal wall of the rotating disks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2012
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Inventors: Jim McCafferty, Steve Delacy, Greg Leong
  • Publication number: 20140017973
    Abstract: A combination toy includes a bottom plate, an inner board unit removably mounted on the bottom plate, an outer board unit removably mounted on the bottom plate, and two side board units each removably mounted on the bottom plate. The outer board unit is combined with the inner board unit. Each of the side board units is combined with the outer board unit. The side board units are located at the two opposite ends of the outer board unit. Thus, the inner board unit, the outer board unit and the side board units are assembled and disassembled with each other so that the combination toy can be assembled and disassembled by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventor: Hung-Pin Lin
  • Publication number: 20140011427
    Abstract: A yo-yo construction includes balls, wheels or the like as exterior elements, which balls, wheels or the like have a high bounce ability, and are preferably inflated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: Brian KESSLER
  • Publication number: 20130165015
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a yo-yo with a high rotary precision, capable of easily and reliably centering even in assembling or disassembling the yo-yo, using a bearing unit having a ball bearing with a simple configuration and high centering precision. A bearing unit (10) for a rotary toy includes: a shaft (15) including: a center portion (16) having a uniform shaft diameter corresponding to a width of an inner ring (12) of a ball bearing (11); and tapered portions (17) each extending from the center portion, each of the tapered portions being tapered toward an end portion thereof. The central portion (16) of the shaft (15) is fixed to the inner ring (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: NSK LTD.
    Inventors: Haruo Sekido, Hiroshi Nishizawa
  • Publication number: 20130109269
    Abstract: A rotatable performance device, such as a yo-yo, is modifiable such that the device can act as a relatively responsive device for beginners and a relatively stable device for advanced users. Spacers that facilitate these modifications and a method for configuring the spacers to change the device's responsiveness and stability are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventors: Takahiko Hasegawa, Stuart Brown
  • Publication number: 20130065481
    Abstract: The invention is an improved yo-yo that features two side assemblies that sandwich a center axle onto which the yo-yo's tether may be secured. According to a first embodiment, each of the side assemblies preferably includes a releasable, disk-shaped rim piece. By replacing one set of replaceable rim pieces with another, a user can quickly and easily change the yo-yo's shape, look and/or functionality. To remove a rim piece, one first removes a lock ring that is secured to the rim piece and blocks a number of openings that lead to grooves in a center-located hub. Next, one employs a twisting movement of the rim piece to cause a number of tabs attached to the rim piece to slide in the hub's grooves until the tabs are aligned with the openings. The rim piece can then be disengaged from the yo-yo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Applicant: BANDAI CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Bandai Co., Ltd.
  • Patent number: 8360814
    Abstract: The invention is a yo-yo that includes unique features that enable a user to adjust the yo-yo's string gap. In the preferred embodiment, at least one of the yo-yo's side assemblies includes a screw engaged to a nut that has two thru-bores located in a side-by-side relation. The screw is located to one side of the yo-yo's axis of rotation and can be rotated by a user to adjust the position of the associated side assembly on the yo-yo's axle structure. By appropriate positioning of the side assembly, a user can adjust the yo-yo's performance characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Inventor: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Patent number: 8328595
    Abstract: The invention is an improved yo-yo that features two side assemblies that sandwich a center axle onto which the yo-yo's tether may be secured. According to a first embodiment, each of the side assemblies preferably includes a releasable, disk-shaped rim piece. By replacing one set of replaceable rim pieces with another, a user can quickly and easily change the yo-yo's shape, look and/or functionality. To remove a rim piece, one first removes a lock ring that is secured to the rim piece and blocks a number of openings that lead to grooves in a center-located hub. Next, one employs a twisting movement of the rim piece to cause a number of tabs attached to the rim piece to slide in the hub's grooves until the tabs are aligned with the openings. The rim piece can then be disengaged from the yo-yo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Bandai Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Publication number: 20120276806
    Abstract: A transparent yo-yo includes two rotatable yo-yo halves (10) two half-spherical, rotatable yo-yo halves (10) each having a valve (12); two caps (13) each fastened in the valve (12); two sealing plates (40) sealingly engaged with the yo-yo halves (10) respectively; two spaced anchoring members (50); and an axle (20) comprising a threaded shank (21) and a nut (22); wherein the threaded shank (21) is adapted to dispose in both the anchoring members (50) and threadedly secure to the nut (22) in the other anchoring member (50) to fasten the axle (20) and the anchoring members (50) together; and wherein the anchoring members (50) are complimentarily secured to the sealing plates (40) respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2011
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventor: Chui Li Wu
  • Publication number: 20120252312
    Abstract: A rotatable performance device, such as a yo-yo, is modifiable such that the device can act as both a relatively narrow looping yo-yo and a relatively wide string trick yo-yo. Inner lobe spacers that facilitate these modifications and a method for attaching the spacers to the rotatable performance device to change its play characteristics are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Takahiko Hasegawa
  • Publication number: 20120244780
    Abstract: The invention is a yo-yo that has structure that enables a user to configure the yo-yo in either a looper configuration or a butterfly configuration without needing to disassemble the yo-yo. The mechanism that enables the change in shape of the yo-yo's sides can be set to an automatic mode in which the yo-yo can automatically change from a looper configuration to a butterfly configuration when the yo-yo's rotational rate reaches a predetermined level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventors: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen, Thomas J. Van Dan Elzen
  • Publication number: 20120244781
    Abstract: The expanding and contracting yo-yo is a spool formed by a pair of disks connected by a narrow diameter pin having a string wound around the pin. At least one, and preferably both, of the disks has a plurality of overlapping wings (also referred to as air foils or leaves) pivotally attached to the periphery of the outer face of the disk. A biasing member causes the wings to remain in a closed dome configuration until the disks begin to spin. When the yo-yo is dropped and pulled back in, centrifugal force, centripetal force, alternate lift and drag of air flow, and resilient bias cause the wings to alternately pivot and unfold outward, followed by pivoting inward to a dome shape. In an alternative embodiment, the wings may be formed with a resilient living hinge that permits the wings to expand and contract against the body of the yo-yo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: MICHAEL O. SMITH
  • Publication number: 20120220186
    Abstract: The present invention provides an electric yo-yo toy which is easily handled even by a young child and a beginner by allocating electric parts and gear mechanism to both of rotors in a balanced manner so that weights of both of the rotors are almost the same. An electric yo-yo toy has a pair of rotors, a main shaft provided between the centers of the pair of rotors, and a rotary shaft rotatably provided for the main shaft and around which a string member is wound. The rotor is provided with a drive motor, a gear mechanism for transmitting rotation of the drive motor to the rotary shaft, and a detecting device for detecting rotation of the rotor. The other rotor is provided with power supplies. The main shaft is provided with a conducting unit for electrically connecting the drive motor and the detecting device of the rotor and the power supplies of the other rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Inventors: Jinsei Choh, Jintei Choh
  • Patent number: 8187052
    Abstract: The invention is a yo-yo that that has at least one side that incorporates components that create a powered rotation system. The system is connected to either a circuit board or a weighted board that is similarly rotatable and is located in the yo-yo's other side and/or employs a circuit board that is non-symmetric about its rotational axis and/or uses the powered rotation system to only push on a side portion's body member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Inventors: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen, Thomas J. Van Dan Elzen
  • Patent number: 8082687
    Abstract: An article, such as a towel, having an opening to secure a twirling mechanism thereto. The twirling mechanism having a handle extending from a bottom portion thereof and having a mechanism to permit rotating of the handle with respect to the fabric-article, such that the fabric article is capable of twirling around the twirling mechanism. The twirling mechanism may in other embodiments include noise maker when the handle is rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Inventor: Michael Cohen
  • Patent number: 8075365
    Abstract: The invention is an improved yo-yo that has two side units and a string-formed response system incorporated into each side unit. In its most basic form, the response system employs a string that is threaded through spaced-apart apertures in a side unit to form at least one tether engagement pad. The pad may be contacted by the yo-yo's tether in order to cause a return of the yo-yo to a user's hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Inventors: Matthew C. Schonert, Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Publication number: 20110294392
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a Return Top, comprising a disc (10), wings (20) installed on a front surface of the disc (10) which are rotatable about their tail ends (21) respectively so that their front ends (22) can be throw out of the disc (10) when the disc (10) is spinning, coupling members (30) connected to the tail ends (21) of the wings (20) respectively and rotated with the tail ends (21) of the wings (20), and springs (40) each having one end being fixed on the disc (10) and the other end being connected to the coupling member (30), wherein the springs (40) are stretched and strain the wings (20) on the disc (10) through the coupling members (30). The wings can be thrown out of the disc under the action of centrifugal force and spin with the disc when the disc is spinning; when the disc does not spin, the wings are drawn back to the initial position on the disc under the action of elastic force of the springs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Man Pun Lee
  • Publication number: 20110256793
    Abstract: The invention is a yo-yo that includes unique features that enable a user to adjust the yo-yo's string gap. In the preferred embodiment, at least one of the yo-yo's side assemblies includes a screw engaged to a nut that has two thru-bores located in a side-by-side relation. The screw is located to one side of the yo-yo's axis of rotation and can be rotated by a user to adjust the position of the associated side assembly on the yo-yo's axle structure. By appropriate positioning of the side assembly, a user can adjust the yo-yo's performance characteristics.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Publication number: 20110212665
    Abstract: The invention is a yo-yo that that has at least one side that incorporates components that create a powered rotation system. The system is connected to either a circuit board or a weighted board that is similarly rotatable and is located in the yo-yo's other side and/or employs a circuit board that is non-symmetric about its rotational axis and/or uses the powered rotation system to only push on a side portion's body member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventors: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen, Thomas J. Van Dan Elzen
  • Patent number: 7874890
    Abstract: The invention is an improved yo-yo that has a rotatable, outwardly-facing roller on each of its two sides. Each roller has an outwardly-facing opening that is sized and shaped to facilitate a non-slip engagement between a finger and the roller. The opening also provides access to an O-ring that functions to secure the roller to the yo-yo.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Patent number: 7874891
    Abstract: The invention is a yo-yo in which at least one of the yo-yo's sides includes a powered rotation system capable of maintaining the yo-yo's rotation when the yo-yo is sleeping at the end of its tether. The system functions by converting one of the yo-yo's sides into a motor, and in one embodiment includes a number of permanent magnets, an electromagnet, a sensor capable of detecting a magnet field, and a power source. Also disclosed is the use of a programmable controller to control the system. In another embodiment of the rotation system, a reflector, an energy emitter and a complementary sensor are employed to lead to an actuation of the electromagnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventors: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen, Thomas J. Van Dan Elzen
  • Publication number: 20110009029
    Abstract: The invention is a yo-yo that includes movable shuttles that a user can quickly reposition between predetermined set points in order to adjust the yo-yo's responsiveness. Repositioning of the shuttles is accomplished via a cam surface connected to a rotatable dial. Preferably, the yo-yo also includes readily visible indicia associated with the shuttle's positioning apparatus so that a user can easily set and/or ascertain the yo-yo's responsiveness setting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Inventors: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen, Thomas J. Van Dan Elzen
  • Publication number: 20100317255
    Abstract: The invention is an improved yo-yo that features two side assemblies that sandwich a center axle onto which the yo-yo's tether may be secured. According to a first embodiment, each of the side assemblies preferably includes a releasable, disk-shaped rim piece. By replacing one set of replaceable rim pieces with another, a user can quickly and easily change the yo-yo's shape, look and/or functionality. To remove a rim piece, one first removes a lock ring that is secured to the rim piece and blocks a number of openings that lead to grooves in a center-located hub. Next, one employs a twisting movement of the rim piece to cause a number of tabs attached to the rim piece to slide in the hub's grooves until the tabs are aligned with the openings. The rim piece can then be disengaged from the yo-yo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Applicant: BANDAI CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hans W. VAN DAN ELZEN
  • Publication number: 20100317254
    Abstract: The invention is a yo-yo that includes a user-actuable locking mechanism. The locking mechanism makes use of a laterally translatable assembly having a push button at each end and a center rotatable spool to which the yo-yo's tether is attached. Using the locking mechanism, a user can set the yo-yo so that the spool is either free to rotate, or must rotate with the yo-yo's sides. The yo-yo is also adapted for use with a spring-powered winder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventors: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen, Benjamin J. McPhee
  • Patent number: 7740517
    Abstract: A multi-function yo-yo switchable between operation as a traditional yo-yo, a free-spin yo-yo, and a centrifugal-clutch yo-yo. Within one or both of the fly disks is one or more rotational-speed governors, and about the axle is a cylindrical axle sleeve which is rotatable about the axle. Each governor is spring-biased to an inwards position the governor contacts the axle sleeve, forcing the axle sleeve to rotate with the fly disks and axle. However, when the yo-yo spins sufficiently rapidly, the governors are thrown by centrifugal force to a radially-outwards position so as not to be in contact with the axle sleeve so that the axle sleeve may rotate independently of the fly disks. A function control switch locks the governors in the inwards position or the outwards position or allows the position to be controlled by centrifugal force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Alex Hochstrasser
  • Publication number: 20100112894
    Abstract: The expanding and contracting yo-yo is a spool formed by a pair of disks connected by a narrow diameter pin having a string wound around the pin. At least one, and preferably both, of the disks has a plurality of overlapping wings (also referred to as air foils or leaves) pivotally attached to the periphery of the outer face of the disk. The wings are capable of expanding outward to unfold like the petals of a flower and contracting to form a dome on the outer face, similar to a closed flower bud. The yo-yo has a flexible, resilient loop attached to the inner face of the wings to bias the wings to the closed dome configuration. When the yo-yo is dropped and pulled back in, centrifugal force, centripetal force, alternate lift and drag of air flow, and resilient bias cause the wings to alternately pivot and unfold outward, followed by pivoting inward to reform the dome shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventor: Michael O. Smith
  • Publication number: 20100022159
    Abstract: The invention is an improved yo-yo that has two side units and a string-formed response system incorporated into each side unit. In its most basic form, the response system employs a string that is threaded through spaced-apart apertures in a side unit to form at least one tether engagement pad. The pad may be contacted by the yo-yo's tether in order to cause a return of the yo-yo to a user's hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Inventors: Matthew C. Schonert, Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Patent number: 7621796
    Abstract: The invention is an improved yo-yo that has two side units and a string-formed response system incorporated into each side unit. In its most basic form, the response system employs a string that is threaded through spaced-apart apertures in a side unit to form at least one tether engagement pad. The pad may be contacted by the yo-yo's tether in order to cause a return of the yo-yo to a user's hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Matthew C. Schonert, Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Publication number: 20090258568
    Abstract: A multi-function yo-yo switchable between operation as a traditional yo-yo, a free-spin yo-yo, and a centrifugal-clutch yo-yo. Within one or both of the fly disks is one or more rotational-speed governors, and about the axle is a cylindrical axle sleeve which is rotatable about the axle. Each governor is spring-biased to an inwards position the governor contacts the axle sleeve, forcing the axle sleeve to rotate with the fly disks and axle. However, when the yo-yo spins sufficiently rapidly, the governors are thrown by centrifugal force to a radially-outwards position so as not to be in contact with the axle sleeve so that the axle sleeve may rotate independently of the fly disks. A function control switch locks the governors in the inwards position or the outwards position or allows the position to be controlled by centrifugal force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Alex Hochstrasser
  • Patent number: 7448934
    Abstract: The invention is a yo-yo in which at least one of the yo-yo's sides includes a powered rotation system capable of maintaining the yo-yo's rotation when the yo-yo is sleeping at the end of its tether. The system functions by converting one of the yo-yo's sides into a motor, and includes a number of permanent magnets, an electromagnet, a sensor capable of detecting a magnet field, and a power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Inventors: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen, Thomas J. Van Dan Elzen
  • Patent number: 7419417
    Abstract: A yo-yo with an axle having two side-by-side bearings constituting a double bearing that enhances yo-yo performance characteristics by improving balance and reducing unwanted effects such as wobble, tilting, twisting, vibration, and string friction. Each bearing having an outer ring, an inner ring, and an array of balls trapped in tracks between the two rings. The outer rings of the bearings may be beveled to form a groove to enhance stability and centering of a string. Alternatively, the bearings may be covered with a bridge that has a straight outer surface or has an outer surface with a groove that could take several shapes. The bridge may have an internal ridge that acts as a centering mechanism for the bearing and bridge assembly. The inner and outer rings of the bearings may be independent or shared, and the rings of one bearing may overlap the rings of the other bearing. The inner rings of the bearings may be extended outward to provide spacing between bearing parts and yo-yo side walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Inventor: Jack C. VanKuiken
  • Publication number: 20080171488
    Abstract: The invention is an improved yo-yo that has a rotatable, outwardly-facing roller on each of its two sides. Each roller has an outwardly-facing opening that is sized and shaped to facilitate a non-slip engagement between a finger and the roller. The opening also provides access to an O-ring that functions to secure the roller to the yo-yo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventor: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Patent number: 7281965
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a combination yo-yo and top device comprising first and second yo-yo body halves, a hollow dowel element detachably connecting one of the yo-yo body halves to the other, a ball bearing element mounted on the hollow dowel element between the yo-yo body halves, a first flywheel assembly having an elongated flywheel axle, wherein the first flywheel assembly is adapted for attachment to the yo-yo body, a second flywheel assembly adapted for attachment to the yo-yo body, a string element having a first end coupled to the hollow dowel element, a power element adapted for attachment to either the first flywheel assembly or the second flywheel assembly to activate both flywheel assemblies, and, at least one removable top component adapted to be secured to the yo-yo body to convert the device from a yo-yo to a top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Assignee: SW14 Group LLC
    Inventor: Ulises Torres
  • Publication number: 20070224910
    Abstract: The invention is an improved yo-yo that has two side units and a string-formed response system incorporated into each side unit. In its most basic form, the response system employs a string that is threaded through spaced-apart apertures in a side unit to form at least one tether engagement pad. The pad may be contacted by the yo-yo's tether in order to cause a return of the yo-yo to a user's hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventors: Matthew C. Schonert, Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Patent number: 7192330
    Abstract: The invention is a yo-yo that includes features that enable a user to adjust the yo-yo's responsiveness. Each of the yo-yo's sides has a movable shuttle having a tether engagement surface. By changing the position of one or both shuttles, a user can affect the yo-yo's ability to return on command. Preferably, the yo-yo also includes readily visible indicia associated with the shuttle's positioning apparatus so that a user can easily set and/or ascertain the yo-yo's responsiveness setting. A user can also change the yo-yo's responsiveness by replacing one set of shuttles with another set that has different tether engagement adaptations. The yo-yo may also include a conventional adjustable string gap and removable rim members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Inventor: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Patent number: 7175500
    Abstract: A yo-yo is disclosed with a substantially frictionless freely rotatable ball bearing, positioned upon a spindle between two separate halves of rotatable yo-yo members, such ball bearing having a smooth, continuous, outer concave surface. The smooth concave surface constitutes a segment of a circle having a radius of about 0.225 inches, contacting the yo-yo string, and is shallow, continuous and uninterrupted by the presence of a prior art groove formed in the outer surface. This surface configuration tends to urge the string towards the center of the bearing to reduce string friction against inside walls of the yo-yo halves while the string is winding around the bearing, yet allows some lateral movement of the string, enabling efficient performance of string layering maneuvers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventor: Frank P. Difeo
  • Patent number: 7125310
    Abstract: The invention is an improved yo-yo that features unique multi-piece sides. Each side has a removable disk that functions to affect the yo-yo's responsiveness via one or more tether engagement structures that can be contacted by the yo-yo's tether. When the removable disk is made of a resilient material, the disk can be compressed to change the yo-yo's responsiveness. Each removable disk may also form the associated side's rim and thereby functions to substantially define the side's shape. By replacing one set of removable disks with another, a user can quickly and easily change the yo-yo's shape and/or rim material and/or responsiveness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Hans W. Van Dan Elzen
  • Patent number: 7083493
    Abstract: A toy-type device which is adapted for both yo-yo play and ball-catching play utilizing a ball tethered to a disc-shaped body, wherein the ball can be used as a grasping element when the device is used as a yo-yo or alternatively the ball can be used as a free-body adapted to be caught by the disc-shaped body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventor: Seok-Jin Heo
  • Patent number: 7059932
    Abstract: A spinning toy comprises a pair of spaced disc bodies connected by a transverse shaft forming a gap therebetween. A sting is attached to the shaft in the gap and the toy can be spun on the string. A release mechanism releases the attachment of the string on the shaft while the toy is spinning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Moose Enterprise Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Jacqui Tobias, Paul Charlwood