Figure Toy Or Accessory Therefor Patents (Class 446/268)
  • Patent number: 11746607
    Abstract: Lost circulation material (LCM) and method including LCM objects each having a centrally-disposed solid core and tentacles extending from the solid core to entangle with tentacles of neighboring LCM objects to treat loss circulation in a wellbore in a subterranean formation. The LCM as solid cores and entangled tentacles at the loss circulation zone collects solids from wellbore fluid to form a barrier to treat the loss circulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventor: Md Amanullah
  • Patent number: 11712636
    Abstract: A transformable toy for use on a playing surface is provided. The transformable toy is formed to includes at least one movable housing element that will move from and expanded to a retracted position when a catch and a latch of the transformable toy are secured and released by an actuator of the transformable toy. The transformable toy is formed to roll about at least one rotation axis thereof, and in some embodiments, is also formed to be driven to spin about a spinning axis thereof. In some embodiments the transformable toy includes separably connectable top and bottom housing portions, and in some embodiments, different bottom housing portions can be exchanged on a particular top housing portion to provide different functionality to the transformable toy. The transformable toy can be driven to spin about the spinning axis by a shaft and flywheel mounted within the transformable toy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2022
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2023
    Assignee: SPIN MASTER LTD.
    Inventors: Michael Lee, Evan Miller, Jaedon Tseng, Fujio Nobata, Michitoshi Sugimoto
  • Patent number: 11684040
    Abstract: A therapeutic toy device for an animal user. The device comprises an internal spine simulator comprising a plurality of weighted vertebra simulators, all coupled together in a manner intended to somewhat resemble the spine of a prey animal. The toy device is configured so that when the animal user plays with the toy, the act mimics the sensation of tackling an actual prey animal. This satisfies the animal's predatory instincts, and thus gives the animal a more meaningful and satisfying sensory-motor experience, thus improving well-being. The device may optionally be surrounded by a covering, which may be a removable washable covering, and optionally configured with other elements such as one or more straps, limb simulators, internal stuffing or padding, and other features. The toy device may be configured in varying weights and configurations based on the size, weight, and play-drive of an animal user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Inventor: Mary Beth Evans
  • Patent number: 11439346
    Abstract: A robot is devoted to assisting users with mental illness with software and hardware to provide multiple user modules, including psychotherapy, sympathy, meditation training, expression gestures and words, and hugging responses. Biofeedback and medical data collection are also achieved. Cameras, microphones, speakers, sensors and artificial intelligence, including speech recognition, voice identification and other algorithms are employed. At least three levels of security, and preferably four are used: user, caregiver, manager and programmer personnel are provided different levels of access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Inventor: Jacob T. Boyle
  • Patent number: 11335451
    Abstract: Efforts have been made in the past to improve the wellbeing of a person. Various methods involve use of virtual pet character which can interact with the person. But these methods are mainly for entertainment purpose, people get bored quickly. Moreover, the present application doesn't take into the input of the present state of user. A method and system for improving wellbeing of person using a digital character such as virtual pet has been provided. The system maintains a wellbeing index for both the user and digital character. A set of activities are provided which is performed by the digital character and the user. Further, a response of the user is also captured depending on the current wellbeing index using a set of questionnaire. And a second set of activities are recommended based on the response to further improve the wellbeing index of the person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: TATA CONSULTANCY SERVICES LIMITED
    Inventors: Ashwanth Thotta, Sandeep Athavale
  • Patent number: 11123653
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a transformable toy. The present disclosure provides a transformable toy, in which, when an arbitrary transformation inducing unit comes into contact with a body of the toy, the transformation inducing unit and the body are transformed together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2021
    Assignee: Choirock Contents Company Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jong-Ill Choi
  • Patent number: 10834845
    Abstract: A guidance robot according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a display, a head case configured to be provided to be capable of rotating, an upper case configured to couple to the display and the head case, the upper case being configured to receive an electronic component and a cooling fan therein, and a lower case configured to be located on a lower side of the upper case, the lower case being configured to locate a wheel and a motor therein. In addition, when the cooling fan is driven, outside air is suctioned through a gap between a lower end portion of the head case and an upper-end portion of the upper case, and the suctioned air passes through the electronic component and then is discharged to the outside through the gap between the lower end portion of the upper case and the upper-end portion of the lower case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventor: Sunho Yang
  • Patent number: 10576632
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method of executing a standby mode for a robot, comprises the steps of measuring one or more parameters associated with one or more parts of the robot (e.g. the temperature of one or more motors); receiving one or more standby optimization rules associated with the parameters (e.g. maximizing the dissipation of the heat of the motor), and executing one or more received standby optimization rules (e.g. executing a body animation to cool down motors). The monitored parameters comprise motor temperature measures and/or energy consumption values and/or values quantifying signs of wear. Optimization rules comprise the minimization of the consumption of energy and/or the minimization of wear and/or the maximization of the dissipation of the heat. In developments, a predefined animation can be associated a valuable social engagement score. Further aspects are disclosed, including the optional use of accessories. System aspects and computer programs are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2020
    Assignee: SOFTBANK ROBOTICS EUROPE
    Inventors: Sébastien Dalibard, Alexandre Mazel, Cyrille Collette, Bruno Maisonnier, Jérôme Monceaux
  • Patent number: 10500512
    Abstract: A product having features that facilitate the use of items (e.g., child toys, food items, non-food items, etc.) by way of stuffed creatures (“comfort creatures”). The products can incorporate features such as a compartment to enclose consumable (edible) items such as food and/or drink, and/or non-consumable items so as to hold small gift items for presentation or gifting to another person. The product can be provided with cup-holders embedded into limbs as the stuffed animal is oriented in an upright position. Thus, drink containers can be set into the cup-holders and positioned in a stable manner for use by the child and/or adult. A tray system can also be provided in the main body and removed for standalone use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2019
    Inventor: Robert E. Culver, II
  • Patent number: 10459430
    Abstract: A method of producing a variable data design file for use in production of personalized copies of a reference 3D object may include receiving a plurality of fixed structural parameters for a reference object and receiving information for creation of a plurality of variable structural parameters corresponding to variable data regions on the reference 3D object. The method may include using the plurality of fixed structural parameters to develop an instruction set configured to cause a 3D printing device to form a 3D object that exhibits the plurality of fixed structural parameters; and including, in the instruction set, instructions for creating the plurality of variable structural parameters based on the received information that will cause the 3D printing device to render at least one of the plurality of variable data regions in the 3D object, wherein the variable data region differs from a corresponding region of the reference 3D object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2019
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan D. Levine, David R. Vandervort, Donald M. Pangrazio, III, Robert Eero Nuuja
  • Patent number: 10262292
    Abstract: In some examples, a first device of a first buyer may receive a selection of a first item offered by a selected merchant. The first device may determine whether any second devices are within a threshold distance of the first device. Based on a second device being within the threshold distance, the first device may send, to the second device, a communication for creating a combined order. Receipt of the communication may cause the second device to present, to a second buyer, an interface for creating a combined order. The second buyer may use the second device to select a second item to order from the merchant. At least one of the first device or the second device may send combined order information to a service computing device, which may send the combined order to the merchant and schedule a courier to deliver the ordered items to the buyers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: Square, Inc.
    Inventors: Abhay Raj Kumar, Jesse Lee Reiss, Ajit Kalidindi Varma, Matthew Rhodes, Richard David Din, Anthony Bishopric
  • Patent number: 10220323
    Abstract: A combination stuffed toy, sleeping bag, and storage enclosure including a foldable sleeping bag and a flexible stuffed covering. Each of a plurality of a pair of interconnectable strap buckles is attached to the flexible stuffed covering within each of a plurality of a pair of strap pockets disposed on the flexible stuffed covering. A handle is centrally attached to an upper side of the flexible stuffed covering. A first fastening element of each of a plurality of fasteners is disposed on a lower side of the flexible stuffed covering, and a second fastening element of each of the plurality of fasteners is disposed on each of the upper side of the flexible stuffed covering and the foldable sleeping bag. The first fastening element of each of the plurality of fasteners is detachably connected to the second fastening element of each of the plurality of fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Inventor: Billie Landon
  • Patent number: 10182761
    Abstract: A method and system of universal, secure attachment with attachment detection mechanism, of a wearable sensor-unit to any article of clothing worn around the body in order to measure vital signals of a person, such as motion, movements and activity levels. The method and system permits: reliable attachment to any article of clothing; an attachment in any position to clothing or fabric worn by a person; and detection for the wearable sensor attachment to an article of clothing to minimize false alarms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: MONDEVICES, INC
    Inventor: Arturas Henrikas Vaitaitis
  • Patent number: 10052264
    Abstract: A toy includes a multi-connector for removable attachment to a variety of different styles of soothing devices such as pacifiers. The multi-connector includes one or more transverse tabs configured for individually or collectively releasably attaching to each of the different coupling part styles of the smoothing devices. In this way, the toy can be used with any of the different styles of soothing devices and still be safe because the axial pulling motion and forces that babies often apply to the toy when holding the pacifier in its mouth do not cause the components to separate. Also disclosed is a toy with a tab (transverse or not) that is retained on the toy by a primary attachment such as stitching and a secondary retainer for redundancy as a safety feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher McClintock, Brittany Elson, Bradford Reese
  • Patent number: 9931577
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a servo of an entertainment robot that includes a servo main body and a servo plate. The servo main body includes a casing and an output shaft. The casing is a hexahedron. The servo plate is fixed to the output shaft of the servo main body. The servo plate includes a square drive plate. At least one surface of the servo main body includes a T slot having an opening at one end. The size of the T slot matches the size of the drive plate of the servo plate. Tools are not needed for assembling/disassembling during the assembling of entertainment robots, thereby reducing the complexity during assembling, lowering the assembly difficulty, simplifying the assembling process, increasing the joy of DIY, and providing more space for the users to bring into play their imaginations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Assignee: UBTECH ROBOTICS CORP.
    Inventors: Yumiao Wu, Youjun Xiong, Lefeng Liu
  • Patent number: 9558216
    Abstract: The present disclosure involves systems, software, and computer implemented methods for moving a table from a source node to a destination node. In one example, the method includes receiving metadata associated with an in-memory database table stored at a source node. A table container is created responsive to receiving the metadata. The destination node sequentially requests, from the source node, portions of the table, wherein the table is serialized at the source node to provide a serialized sequence of table portions. Sequentially requesting comprises sending a request for a next portion of the table after processing a received portion, which includes receiving a portion of the serialized table, deserializing the received portion, adding the deserialized portion to the created table container, and in response to an end of file indication associated with the received portion, ending the requests and finalizing the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: SAP SE
    Inventors: Colin Florendo, Ivan Schreter
  • Patent number: 9545563
    Abstract: An augmented reality (AR) game system is disclosed wherein real-world objects are transformed into AR terrain elements and AR events generate real-world impact. The game environment is set up using real-world objects that include everyday objects and game pieces on a field of play. When viewed on the screen of a computing device executing the modules of the game system, the everyday objects are transformed into elements of an AR terrain while the game pieces can be augmented with various controls. Multiple viewing modes, for example, a third person view, a first person view or “POV” view from a selected game piece or a split screen view are contemplated for viewing the field of play. A subset of the augmented controls can be activated by the user to execute AR events some of which can have real-world impact. The AR events are executed based on game rules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: TRIGGER GLOBAL INC.
    Inventors: Jason Yim, Mikayel Saryan
  • Patent number: 9538316
    Abstract: A smart monitor system includes a hand-held electronic device and a monitor. The hand-held electronic device includes a panel, a control unit, a touch-sensing cover and a wireless communication unit. The touch-sensing cover has a cover and a touch-sensing structure. The cover is disposed on the side of the hand-held electronic device opposite the panel. Partial or total area of the touch-sensing structure is disposed on the cover. The touch-sensing structure is electrically connected to the control unit. The wireless communication unit has a wireless communication chip and an antenna. The wireless communication chip is electrically connected to the control unit, and the antenna is disposed on the touch-sensing cover. The smart monitor system can communicate with and controls the monitor through the hand-held electronic device for various application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignees: HANNSTAR DISPLAY (NANJING) CORPORATION, HANNSTAR DISPLAY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yu-Chi Chiao, Hsu-Ho Wu, Tien-Rong Lu
  • Patent number: 9463392
    Abstract: The playing figure of the invention, consists in a body of small dimensions which is the likeness of a puppet, an object or any other geometrical form as well as support means for lying on the ground or on a surface, permitting the stable arrangement of the figure in predetermined positions, particularly in an upright position and in predetermined tumbled positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Assignee: MAGIC BOX INT. TOYS, S.L.U.
    Inventor: David Bella-Martorell
  • Patent number: 9352213
    Abstract: An augmented reality (AR) game system is disclosed wherein real-world objects are transformed into AR terrain elements and AR events generate real-world impact. The game environment is set up using real-world objects that include everyday objects and game pieces on a field of play. When viewed on the screen of a computing device executing the modules of the game system, the everyday objects are transformed into elements of an AR terrain while the game pieces can be augmented with various controls. Multiple viewing modes, for example, a third person view, a first person view or “POV” view from a selected game piece or a split screen view are contemplated for viewing the field of play. A subset of the augmented controls can be activated by the user to execute AR events some of which can have real-world impact. The AR events are executed based on game rules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: Trigger Global Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Yim, Mikayel Saryan
  • Patent number: 9355576
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to a three-dimensional dummy object, in particular for functionally testing driver assistance systems in motor vehicles, comprising a head, a skeleton, a trunk, movable pelvis and movable legs. The skeleton comprises a trunk skeleton having cavities, to which the arms and legs are articulated, wherein the legs each have a thigh and a lower leg articulated to the thigh, wherein a drive unit and a receiver/control unit are installed in the trunk skeleton, which receiver/control unit receives signals correlating to the relative velocity of the moving dummy object as an input quantity, such that the movement pattern of the thighs and lower legs can be varied according to the relative velocity of the dummy object by means of an installed movement mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: 4activeSystems GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Fritz
  • Patent number: 9320976
    Abstract: A playmate toy or similar children's toy is provided having associated wireless, batteryless ID tag that can be read from and/or written to using a radio-frequency communication protocol. The tag is mounted internally within a cavity of the toy and thereby provides wireless communication of stored information without requiring removal and reinsertion of the tag. In this manner, a stuffed animal or other toy can be quickly and easily identified non-invasively, without damaging the toy. Additional information (e.g., unique personality traits, special powers, skill levels, etc.) can also be stored on the ID tag, thus providing further personality enhancement, input/output programming, simulated intelligence and/or interactive gaming possibilities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: MQ Gaming, LLC
    Inventor: Denise Chapman Weston
  • Patent number: 9280854
    Abstract: A system and method of making an at least partially customized figure emulating a subject is disclosed which involves obtaining at least two two-dimensional images of the face of the subject from different perspectives; and processing the images of the face with a computer processor to create a three dimensional model of the subject's face; scaling the three dimensional model and applying the three dimensional model to a predetermined template adapted to interfit with the head of a figure preform that comprises at least a head. The template is printed and installed on the head portion of the figure preform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: RIGHT FOOT LLC
    Inventor: Daniel J. Lauer
  • Patent number: 9039483
    Abstract: A method, system, and apparatus are provided for interactively playing with a printed image. A printed image resembling a game board, book, or picture, is provided. The printed image includes a registration area and a plurality of feedback areas in which an indicator color is printed at a predetermined level, e.g. percentage of area. A figurine is provided that includes a light source and light sensor. The light source and light sensor are placed in proximity to the designated areas in the image to sense the level of the indicator color printed therein and an associated output is provided. The registration area is useable to identify a predefined template associated with the image to allow feedback of the figurine with a plurality of different printed images. The figurine can include an ultraviolet light source to activate graphics printed in the image with photochromic ink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: HALLMARK CARDS, INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Teddi Norman Hernandez, John Nathan Dawbarn, Douglas Lee Krivanek, Terrence Michael Turner
  • Publication number: 20150126644
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a polyester-based fiber for artificial hair obtained by melt spinning a polyester resin composition. The polyester resin composition includes 100 parts by weight of a polyester resin, 5 to 40 parts by weight of a brominated epoxy flame retardant, and 1.5 parts by weight or more and less than 7 parts by weight of an antimony oxide. The polyester resin is at least one kind of resin selected from the group consisting of polyalkylene terephthalate and a copolymerized polyester containing polyalkylene terephthalate as a main component. The polyester-based fiber for artificial hair has aggregates of the brominated epoxy flame retardant that are dispersed in the polyester resin in the form of islands, as viewed in the cross section of the fiber parallel to the fiber axis direction. The present invention also relates to hair ornament products including the polyester-based fiber for artificial hair and a method for producing the polyester-based fiber for artificial hair.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: Kaneka Corporation
    Inventors: Tomokazu Higami, Tomomichi Hashimoto, Kohei Kawamura, Mika Yorizane
  • Publication number: 20150118934
    Abstract: The playing figure of the invention, consists in a body of small dimensions which is the likeness of a puppet, an object or any other geometrical form as well as support means for lying on the ground or on a surface, permitting the stable arrangement of the figure in predetermined positions, particularly in an upright position and in predetermined tumbled positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: David Bella-Martorell
  • Patent number: 9011194
    Abstract: The system described in this disclosure may be configured to read information stored on toy objects that indicates whether the toy objects have been used and/or are being used with other toy objects, gaming systems, and/or other devices. The system described in this disclosure may be configured to facilitate an association of the information stored on the toy objects with virtual entities in a virtual space, update virtual content associated with the virtual entities, determine relationships between users, and/or other perform other functions based on the information stored on the toy objects. The information stored on the toy objects may be updated responsive to the toy objects being used by users with other toy objects, gaming systems, and/or other devices. The use of the toy objects by users may include two or more users playing together with toy objects and/or playing with gaming systems associated with the toy objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Tyler James Colbert
  • Patent number: 8998672
    Abstract: A facial expression control device is provided. The facial expression control device of the present invention provides multiple structures and links, wherein the links are connected to the linking assembly; therefore varies facial expressions are expressed according to the combination of the structures and links. In this way, the facial expression is changed by means of the least actuators under the condition of maintaining the number of facial expression and imitation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: National Taiwan University of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Chyi-Yeu Lin, Chun-Chia Huang
  • Patent number: 8992281
    Abstract: A toy figure display stand displays a toy figure behind a transparent fluid-retaining wall, thus simulating immersion of the toy figure within the transparent fluid. The simulated immersion provides an additional level of engagement between the toy figure and a child or collector. The wall may include an interior transparent shell portion and an exterior transparent shell portion. The interior transparent shell portion and the exterior transparent shell portion may together define a cavity. A fluid may be received within the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenny Yuk Wa Lui, Wai (Ricky Choi) Kei Choi, Qiwen (Chris Fong) Fang, Ted Kwok Leung Chiu
  • Patent number: 8986120
    Abstract: An entertainment system includes an object tracking camera, a logic subsystem operatively connected to the object tracking camera, and a data holding subsystem holding instructions executable by the logic subsystem. The instructions are executable to receive one or more images of a scene from the object tracking camera, the scene including a human and a companion object. The instructions are further executable to recognize a gesture of the human based on the received one or more images, and to wirelessly send a control command to the companion object responsive to the recognized gesture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventors: Sari Davidson, John Ikeda, David Nelson, Brian Allen Bilodeau
  • Patent number: 8944877
    Abstract: A toy having a humanoid body and a jet pack is provided. The toy includes a first fabric portion partially ejected from a first aperture in the jet pack in response to a lever being moved from a first position to a second position. The toy further includes a fan disposed in the body that blow airs across the first fabric portion. The toy further includes a first light emitting diode that illuminates the first fabric portion when the first fabric portion is partially ejected from the first aperture such that the first fabric portion simulates flames being emitted from the jet pack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Terence Higuchi
  • Patent number: 8939840
    Abstract: There is provided a system and method for playsets using tracked objects and corresponding virtual worlds. There is provided an object for use with a physical environment and connectable to a virtual world corresponding to the physical environment, the object including a processor and a plurality of sensors including a position sensor. The processor is configured to establish a first connection with the virtual world, wherein the virtual world contains a virtual object corresponding to the object, determine a position of the object using the position sensor, and send the position of the object using the first connection. There is also provided a physical environment having similar capabilities as the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher W. Heatherly, Christopher K. Shin, Natasha Berling, Robert Saygan, Leonard J. Mazzocco, Tara Cortner Hefter
  • Patent number: 8926395
    Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for interactive play is provided. In an exemplary embodiment, an interactive toy is provided. The interactive toy is configured to store a plurality of codes and display codes on a display on the toy. The codes can authenticate the toy and unlock functionality within a virtual world. In one embodiment, the interactive toy is configured to communicate with a user computer. Another embodiment provides methods for interactive play with an interactive toy and a virtual world. A further embodiment provides a computing device configured to participate in the interactive play system. This Abstract is provided for the purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement rules that allow a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Patent Category Corp.
    Inventor: Yu “Brian” Zheng
  • Patent number: 8894464
    Abstract: A toy with folding retractable wings includes a body and wings connected to the body via snap-in pivot articulations that allow the folding of the wings in a space minimizing nesting configuration. Various springs, latches, triggers and stopping mechanisms ensure that the folded wings deploy in a spring-loaded fashion, with minimal user effort. The pivot articulations can release the wings in a non-destructive manner when exposed to high mechanical stress loads, thus preventing destructive wing breakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Thinking Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Albert Wai Tai Chan, Ka Hung (William) Ko
  • Patent number: 8894463
    Abstract: A toy figure assembly is disclosed. The toy figure assembly includes a toy figure and a toy surfboard that can be used with the toy figure. In one embodiment, the toy figure can be coupled to the toy surfboard in an upright or surfing orientation that simulates the toy figure surfing on the toy surfboard. In one embodiment, the toy figure can be coupled to the toy surfboard in a lying orientation that simulates the toy figure paddling on the toy surfboard. In one embodiment, a handle is coupleable to the toy figure to allow a user to move the toy figure into different poses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Patricia Chan, Steven Ryniker, Andrew Wong
  • Publication number: 20140323011
    Abstract: Display article support systems and methods of using, interchangeable support clips, support elements and display boards for support of display articles such as dolls for display, transport and/or play are disclosed. A kit includes a variety of the interchangeable support clips and support elements included in a package.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: LENMARK HOLDINGS, LLC
    Inventors: Leonard M. Gilbert, Mark S. Presser
  • Publication number: 20140315469
    Abstract: A toy is provided, the toy having: an action figure with a pair of appendages movably secured thereto for movement between a first separated position and a second un-separated position; a pair of accessories removably secured to the pair of appendages; and wherein the pair of accessories are configured to be secured to each other and form an item when the pair of appendages are in the second un-separated position and the pair of accessories are secured to the pair of appendages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2011
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: Terence J Y. Higuchi, Kit Hong Lau, J. Austin Rucker
  • Publication number: 20140308874
    Abstract: An article of manufacture includes a figurine body and a first mounting pad at a bottom of the figurine body. The first mounting pad can include a first mounting mechanism. The article of manufacture can also include a raised portion at the bottom of the figurine body. The raised portion is at least in part be adjacent to the first mounting pad. The raised portion is raised in relation to the first mounting pad. The raised portion is configured to prevent a portion of a fastener from rotating 360 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: John R. Rinehart
  • Patent number: 8851955
    Abstract: A rocking inflatable figure has a hollow inflatable body, a rocking mechanism and an air pump. The inflatable body has an air inlet, a movable portion and two partition diaphragms securely mounted on an inner wall inside the movable portion. The rocking mechanism is mounted between the two partition diaphragms and has a housing and an oscillating lever pivotally mounted on the housing. An electric motor and a transmission mechanism are mounted inside the housing. When the electric motor and the transmission mechanism drive the oscillating lever to keep oscillating, the two partition diaphragms on the movable portion rock relative to each other. Accordingly, the rocking inflatable figure can exhibit a continuously rocking form to increase the viewing fun and animated effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Gemmy Industries Corporation
    Inventor: Cheng-Chun Zhang
  • Publication number: 20140295731
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide a children's toy, such as a doll, an action figure or a stuffed toy, having an associated wireless, batteryless RFID tag that can be read from and/or written to using a radio-frequency communication protocol. The RFID tag may be located within an internal cavity of the toy so as to provide wireless communication of stored information without requiring physical access to the tag. RFID-tagged toys can be quickly and easily identified using one or more RFID reader devices. Additional information (e.g., unique personality traits, special powers, skill levels, etc.) can also be stored on the RFID tag, thus providing further personality enhancement, input/output programming, simulated intelligence and/or interactive gaming possibilities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Applicant: MQ Gaming, LLC
    Inventor: Denise Chapman Weston
  • Patent number: 8845435
    Abstract: In some embodiments, a method of distributing toy objects is provided. The method includes: providing a toy object and a task identifier, the task identifier identifying a task; receiving, via a website, task-completion input from a user; associating the user with a profile, the profile being associated with the toy object; updating the profile to indicate that the task had been performed; identifying reward criteria; determining whether the reward criteria was met; and, upon determining that the reward criteria was met, initializing distribution of a physical reward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventors: Michael Bogan, Erin Bogan
  • Publication number: 20140273721
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing a user with the ability to interact with a virtual representation of a toy is disclosed. The apparatus comprises at least two toy figures, each toy figure having at least one detachable part and a unique identifier that identifies information about a user, a user's interaction with the toy figures, or location of the toy figure and each detachable part being interchangeable with other detachable parts and containing a unique identifier, configuration or marking that identifies information about the detachable part; a transmission device that is capable of detecting and receiving information from the unique identifier of the toy figures and the unique identifier, configuration or marking of the at least one detachable part of the toy; and an electronic platform that is capable of receiving information from the transmission device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Foo Katan, Cos Lazouras
  • Publication number: 20140273722
    Abstract: A toy doll with an illuminable movable portion is a toy doll with an illumination source, a first portion, and second portion. The second portion is movable with respect to the first portion and includes at least two panels which define housings configured to be illuminated. Each of the housings may include illumination areas, which, upon being aligned with the illumination source may become illuminated. Each of the panels may be selectively aligned with the illumination source. By illuminating different panels of the second portion, the toy doll can be configured in various illumination configurations. A user can influence which panels are illuminated by orienting the toy doll in certain orientations or moving the second portion to different locations with respect to the first portion, among other factors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Patricia CHAN, Steven D. RYNIKER, James P. ZIELINSKI
  • Publication number: 20140256213
    Abstract: A system and method for detecting pressure within a soft toy is presented. A soft toy has a soft toy body and an air bladder inside the soft toy body. A pressure sensing logic internal to the soft toy body measures a pressure of air inside the air bladder. When the pressure sensing logic measures air inside the air bladder is within a predetermined pressure range, control logic in the soft toy generates at least one output to at least one output device mounted in or on the soft toy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Inventors: Steve Copeland, Graham Mottram, Daniel Kowalewski
  • Patent number: 8827760
    Abstract: A method and device are provided that include a support structure encased within a stuffed toy, wherein at least one of the extremities of the structure allow a user to position a portable electronic device. The portable electronic device may render digitized audio files and/or digitized video files. Versions of the toy may include a shell or case disposed between the portable device and the support structure; audio speakers; an electric battery; one or more solar energy panels that charge the battery; an electric cord that enables charging the battery from a landline power socket; a device power cord that delivers electrical power from the battery to a device; ear buds that may couple with the portable electronic device; and one or more audio speakers that emit sound derived from the portable electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventors: Carrie Park Ushibo, James Kinji Ushiba
  • Patent number: 8795024
    Abstract: An article of manufacture can include a figurine body and a first mounting pad. The first mounting pad can include a notch located in the bottom of the first mounting pad. The first mounting pad can include a first mounting mechanism. The figurine body and the first mounting pad can be separated by a guide groove. Upon removal of the first mounting pad from the figurine body at at least the guide groove, an opening is exposed to form a second mounting mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventor: John R. Rinehart
  • Publication number: 20140199507
    Abstract: A stuffed article, for example a toy, flying disk, bed, or etc., and manufacturing methods of such are disclosed which has volume and which upon destruction by an animal will not release stuffing as with most common stuffed toys, flying disks, or beds. The article is made from at least one material such as fabric, canvas, denim, nylon, fleece, rubber, plastic, leather, rawhide, animal parts, fiber (or other pliable material) which, through the article's configuration and manufacturing process is filled with the same type of material used to form the outer layers, multiple layers may be used for increased strength, and specifically the inner cavity contains material which is one and the same type of material as the outer layer(s).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2013
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Holly Marie Moran
  • Publication number: 20140190974
    Abstract: A protective case for an electronic device includes a cover with a cavity and a back plate that fits within the cavity of the cover. The cover has an aperture that displays either the back plate or an electronic device, if an electronic device is housed in the protective case. The cover may contain at least one locking latch with three orientations, the locking latch includes a tab. In the first orientation, the tab protrudes into the cavity, engages the back plate, holding the back plate within the cavity of the cover. The locking latch may slide across a portion of the cover to the second orientation, where the tab continues to protrude into the cavity and engage the back plate. Once in the second position, the locking latch is free to rotate to the third position, where the tab no longer protrudes into the cavity, allowing the back plate to be removed from the cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald W. STUCKE, JR., Daniel J. DAMON, Travis William ECKLER, Anthony FAVORITO, Ross RUMFOLA, III, Rachel A. WIATROWSKI-PARDI
  • Publication number: 20140170931
    Abstract: Described is a toy figurine with a removable accessory that doubles as a smart device stylus. The invention includes a toy figurine having a holder adapted to hold a removable accessory stylus, while the removable accessory stylus formed as an accessory to the toy figurine. The removable accessory stylus includes a grip portion and stylus tip, with the stylus up being thrilled of a conductive material. Thus, upon removing the removable accessory stylus from the figurine, a user can use the stylus tip to operate a touch screen device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
    Inventor: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
  • Publication number: 20140099857
    Abstract: A toy figurine with projectiles is disclosed. The figurine includes a torso, at least one appendage, and at least one projectile launchable from the figurine. The projectile launches directly from the torso and away from the toy figurine. The projectile is resilient, such that movement in a first direction creates energy to launch the projectile in a second and opposite direction. In some embodiments, the toy figurine may also include a launcher on an appendage which may provide an additional method of launching projectiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2013
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Inventors: James Austin RUCKER, Josiah To Sang LI