By Radio Signal Patents (Class 446/456)
  • Patent number: 11446568
    Abstract: Data processing apparatus includes data communication circuitry to communicate data, by wireless radio frequency communication, with a set of one or more external devices, the data communication circuitry being configured to detect a corresponding wireless signal strength of a data communication from each of the set of external devices; a data processor to detect a respective estimated separation of each of the set of external devices from the apparatus in dependence upon the respective detected wireless signal strengths; and an image processor to detect, in images captured by a camera, an image of an external device having image properties consistent with the estimated separation of a given one of the set of external devices from the apparatus and to associate the external device detected in the images captured by the camera with data communications between the apparatus and the given one of the set of external devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc.
    Inventor: Jesus Lucas Barcias
  • Patent number: 11402218
    Abstract: The present disclosure may be directed to a computer-assisted or autonomous driving (CA/AD) vehicle with a controller to control one or more light emitters to produce a light pattern that uniquely identify the vehicle. It may also be directed to a system to receive image data from one or more video cameras located in a location vicinity of the CA/AD vehicle emitting a pattern of light, and to analyze the received image data to determine a physical location of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2022
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventor: Glen J. Anderson
  • Patent number: 11176809
    Abstract: Methods and systems for utilizing a mobile computing device (e.g., such as a mobile phone) for use in controlling a model vehicle are described. Consistent with some embodiments, a mobile computing device provides various user controls for generating signals that are communicated to a radio transmitter device coupled with the mobile computing device, and ultimately broadcast to a receiver residing at a model vehicle. With some embodiments, the mobile computing device may be integrated with a controller housing which provides separate user controls, such that a combination of user controls present on the mobile computing device and the controller housing can be used to control a model vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Inventor: Ari Krupnik
  • Patent number: 11056005
    Abstract: Methods and system are provided for training and using a model to determine states of lanes of interest. For instance, image data including an image and an associated label identifying at least one traffic light, a state of the at least one traffic light, and a lane controlled by the at least one traffic light are received and used to train the model such that the model is configured to, in response to receiving an image and a lane of interest included in the image, output a lane state for the lane of interest. This model is then used by a vehicle in order to determine a state of a lane of interest. This state is then used to control the vehicle in an autonomous driving mode based on the state of the lane of interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: Waymo LLC
    Inventors: Maxim Krivokon, Abhijit S. Ogale, Edward Hsiao, Andreas Wendel
  • Patent number: 10874952
    Abstract: A robotic system is integrated with one or more mobile computing devices. Physical configurations of individual components of the system in physical space, or agents, under control of a user or users, are duplicated in a representation in virtual space. Some degree of real-time parity is maintained between the physical and virtual spaces, so as to implement a virtual environment that mirrors the physical one. Events occurring within one environment can directly influence and bear consequence on the course of events occurring within the other environment. Elements of virtual space thereby become truly interdependent and unified on a peer footing with elements in physical space. In at least one embodiment, the system is implemented as an application in entertainment, such as the manifestation of a video game in physical space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: Digital Dream Labs, LLC
    Inventors: Boris Sofman, Hanns Tappeiner, Mark Matthew Palatucci, Patrick Lee DeNeale
  • Patent number: 10803767
    Abstract: A system includes a mobile unit, road and procedure pieces, and a controller on the mobile unit that includes an optical sensor, a storage storing instructions and identification lookup tables, and a processor connected to the optical sensor and the storage. The optical sensor scans recognition patterns on the procedure pieces and identification patterns on the road pieces to correspondingly obtain recognition and identification codes. The processor controls the mobile unit to perform actions based on a collection of instructions generated according to the recognition codes and the instruction lookup table and based on entries of coordinate information obtained according to the identification codes and the identification lookup table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: Genius Toy Taiwan Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yi-Ming Yang
  • Patent number: 10675766
    Abstract: A system for providing a user of a virtual reality (VR) system with physical interactions with an object in the real world or in the surrounding physical space while they are concurrently interacting in the virtual world with a corresponding virtual object. The real world object is dynamic with the system including a physical interaction system that includes a robot with a manipulator for moving, positioning, and/or orienting the real world object to move it into contact with the user. For example, the physical object is moved into contact with a tracked body part of the user at a time that is synchronized with a time of an interaction event occurring in the virtual world being created by the VR system. Further, a system is described for providing a dynamic physical interaction to a human participant, e.g., a fast and compelling handover in an augmented reality (AR) system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2020
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Günter D. Niemeyer, Lanny S. Smoot, Vinay Chawda, Matthew Keith Xi-Jie Pan, Moritz Bächer, Lars Espen Knoop
  • Patent number: 10583357
    Abstract: An interactive gaming toy is provided for playing a game having both physical and virtual gameplay elements. The gaming toy comprises a physical toy, such as a toy wand, doll or action figure, having an RFID tag pre-programmed with a unique identifier that identifies the toy within an associated computer-animated game. The RFID tag stores information describing certain attributes or abilities of a corresponding virtual character or object in the computer-animated game. Additional information may be stored on the RFID tag as the corresponding virtual character evolves or changes over time based on player performance and/or gameplay progression. The interactive gaming toy thus allows developed character attributes and the like to be stored and easily transported to other games and compatible gaming platforms. One or more optional auxiliary components may be attached to the gaming toy to selectively create a modified gaming toy having additional desired functionality and/or aesthetics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2020
    Assignee: MQ GAMING, LLC
    Inventors: Jonathan A. Barney, Denise C. Weston
  • Patent number: 10564054
    Abstract: A device for indicating a replacement time of a composite leaf spring constantly monitors durability of the composite leaf spring, which is formed by mixing unidirectional glass fiber and epoxy resin, and informs a driver of an appropriate replacement time of the composite leaf spring based on the monitoring result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Seung Hyun Oh
  • Patent number: 10551834
    Abstract: An electronic device is disclosed and includes a display, a wireless communication circuit configured to transmit or receive data, a processor, and a memory electrically connected with the processor. The memory stores instructions, which when executed, enable the processor to display a first video portion corresponding to a reference heading direction of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) of a video captured by the UAV, display a second video portion corresponding to a virtual heading direction of the video in response to a first input, and in response to a second input, generate a first control signal to cause the UAV to move with respect to the virtual heading direction, and transmit the generated first control signal through the wireless communication circuit to the UAV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Wu-Seong Lee, Tae-Kyun Kim, Jung-Jae Lee, Seung-Nyun Kim, Yong-Sang Yun
  • Patent number: 10537817
    Abstract: A customizable adhesive toy playscape is constructed of a combination of printed adhesive playscape tape and other accessories, such as printed stickers, upstanding signs, toy vehicles, and the tape roll core that can be used by children (or adults) for creating imaginary playscape tape worlds for play, education, or other uses. The playscape tape can be part of a single layer track construction that includes machine-readable codes for controlling movement of a mobile agent traveling thereover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2020
    Assignee: INROAD TOYS, LLC
    Inventor: Andrew J. Musliner
  • Patent number: 10232277
    Abstract: A toy vehicle system includes a toy vehicle, a remote-control transmitter and a control unit. The toy vehicle includes a drive with at least two drive motors and at least two roller elements. The roller elements are mutually independently driven rotationally about respective axes of rotation via the drive motors. The toy vehicle further includes at least one steering mechanism for adjusting the directions of orientation of the axes of rotation relative to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. Input signals of the remote-control are fed into the control unit. The control unit generates output signals that act on the drive and the steering mechanism. In the operating method, the control unit carries out a computational driving simulation and generates therefrom control output signals such that the toy vehicle carries out a vehicle movement according to the computational driving simulation under the action of a virtual operating frictional force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2019
    Inventor: Martin Mueller
  • Patent number: 9669858
    Abstract: A motorized, self-propelled stroller that is controllable via a remote control unit. The motorized stroller has a motor, a power source, and a drive shaft that is operably connected to one of the stroller's axles to drive the rotation thereof. A wireless transceiver relays signals sent from the remote control unit to the motor to control the action of the motor. The motor is adapted to drive the rotation of the axle to which it is operably connected in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions, with varying speeds. Reflectors extend along the lateral sides of the stroller frame and lights are disposed on the front portion of the frame, making the stroller more visible during low-light conditions and thus safer to operate. The motorized stroller further includes a motorized assembly that is adapted to fold and unfold the stroller frame in response to input from the remote control unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Inventors: Cathy Washington, L. C. Brown
  • Patent number: 9586138
    Abstract: A sensing apparatus may be provided capable of detecting a hit by a projectile, such as a BB pellet. The sensing apparatus may include a surface and accelerometer to detect the acceleration of the surface. A processor may determine whether a projectile hit has occurred. The sensing apparatus may be mounted onto a vehicle. The vehicle may be a robot capable of participating in a game. The robot game may occur within a facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: SZ DJI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Ji Dong Wei, Sheng Yang Chen, Tao Wang, Ji Yuan Ao, Yi Jun Guan
  • Patent number: 9333437
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a modular transmit controller is provided. The modular transmit controller has a user interface module including a steering control, a throttle control, and an attachment portion for attachment of an external device module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: TRAXXAS LP
    Inventors: Gary M. DeWitt, Brad S. Shirley
  • Patent number: 9327204
    Abstract: A remote control helicopter includes a body, a tail wing, a rotor assembly, a landing skid assembly, and a charging port on the bottom of the helicopter. The remote control for the helicopter includes an outer housing, landing skid grooves, a power switch, a throttle control stick that controls the ascent and the descent, a direction control stick that controls the turning or rotation of the helicopter, and a charging plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Inventor: Bo Chen
  • Patent number: 9238177
    Abstract: A system includes a drivable surface that includes location encoding markings. A mobile agent is provided that includes a drive motor, an imaging system for taking images of the markings, a vehicle wireless transceiver, and a microcontroller operatively coupled to the motor, the imaging system, and the vehicle wireless transceiver. A basestation is provided that includes a controller operatively coupled to a basestation wireless transceiver. Via wireless communication between the wireless transceivers of the mobile agent and the basestation, an action to be implemented by the mobile agent can be determined by the basestation and communicated to the mobile agent, whereupon the microcontroller of the mobile agent controls detailed movement of the mobile agent on the drivable surface based on images taken of the markings of the drivable surface by the imaging system to cause the mobile agent to implement the action on the drivable surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: Anki, Inc.
    Inventors: Boris Sofman, Hanns W. Tappeiner, Mark Palatucci
  • Patent number: 9166506
    Abstract: Control of rotational speed of a motor is provided using an apparatus and method that provides a staging and a driving mode. A processor controls speed of the motor in three different modes to provide different control that is appropriate for different situations. Control-input indications are received by a processor indicating that a stepping mode is selected. In stepping mode, a sequence of commutation states are chosen in succession at a given stepping frequency for a given control selection. In an active-holding mode, the same phase in the commutation sequence is pulsed at low power to hold a motor location. In a closed-loop motor-control mode, the commutation state is sensed and state transition time is controlled relative to neutral timing. These modes may be used to advantage to simulate a drag race. An operator controls a remote-control vehicle in a stepping mode to drive toward a first beam at a drag start line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: CASTLE CREATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: Richard A. Hofer, Jonathan R. Feldcamp
  • Patent number: 9064335
    Abstract: An example system includes an information processing device, which includes: an arrangement item including a first marker; an arrangement region providing object which provides an arrangement region and includes a plurality of second markers; and an information processing device including: an imaging processing unit to generate a captured image with an imaging device; a positional relationship judgment unit to judge a positional relationship between the first marker of the arrangement item and at least one of the second markers, from a captured image which includes the first marker of the arrangement item and at least one of the plurality of second markers of the arrangement region providing object; an information superimposition unit to superimpose predetermined information based on the positional relationship, onto the captured image; and a display processing unit to cause a display device to display the captured image on which the predetermined information is superimposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takeshi Hayakawa
  • Publication number: 20150147936
    Abstract: A mechanized, movable toy with the ability to interact with and explore its environment, while performing actions and creating noises at specific intervals. The toy has at least two receivers and a control unit capable of detecting wireless signals from a source and capable of reacting to move towards the source of the wireless signals. Once the toy enters within an area of the source, the toy performs a new action. The source may be a stationary device, handheld device, movable device, or another mobile toy. The toy may contain switches thereupon to switch the toy on or off. The receivers may be arranged in and around the toy to detect the wireless signals from one side of the toy or another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: CEPIA LLC
    Inventors: James Russell Hornsby, Joseph L. McGowan, Michael C. Reynolds
  • Patent number: 9004977
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a transmit controller compatible with an auxiliary user interface device is provided. The transmit controller has a memory with operational parameters, a control user interface, an auxiliary user interface connector, and a transmit controller processor. The transmit controller processor is configured to transmit the operational parameters to the auxiliary user interface device and modify the operational parameters in accordance with a parameter instruction from the auxiliary user interface device. The transmit controller processor is further configured to receive a control instruction from the control user interface, determine an output signal based on the control instruction and the one or more operational parameters, and transmit the output signal to the model vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Traxxas LP
    Inventors: Gary M. DeWitt, Brad Shirley, Chris S. Russell, Larry DeFauw
  • Patent number: 8951093
    Abstract: A system includes a drivable surface that includes location encoding markings. A mobile agent is provided that includes a drive motor, an imaging system for taking images of the markings, a vehicle wireless transceiver, and a microcontroller operatively coupled to the motor, the imaging system, and the vehicle wireless transceiver. A basestation is provided that includes a controller operatively coupled to a basestation wireless transceiver. Via wireless communication between the wireless transceivers of the mobile agent and the basestation, an action to be implemented by the mobile agent can be determined by the basestation and communicated to the mobile agent, whereupon the microcontroller of the mobile agent controls detailed movement of the mobile agent on the drivable surface based on images taken of the markings of the drivable surface by the imaging system to cause the mobile agent to implement the action on the drivable surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Anki, Inc.
    Inventors: Boris Sofman, Hanns W. Tappeiner, Mark Palatucci
  • Patent number: 8951092
    Abstract: A system includes a drivable surface that includes location encoding markings. A mobile agent is provided that includes a drive motor, an imaging system for taking images of the markings, a vehicle wireless transceiver, and a microcontroller operatively coupled to the motor, the imaging system, and the vehicle wireless transceiver. A basestation is provided that includes a controller operatively coupled to a basestation wireless transceiver. Via wireless communication between the wireless transceivers of the mobile agent and the basestation, an action to be implemented by the mobile agent can be determined by the basestation and communicated to the mobile agent, whereupon the microcontroller of the mobile agent controls detailed movement of the mobile agent on the drivable surface based on images taken of the markings of the drivable surface by the imaging system to cause the mobile agent to implement the action on the drivable surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Anki, Inc.
    Inventors: Boris Sofman, Hanns W. Tappeiner, Mark Palatucci
  • Patent number: 8939812
    Abstract: A slim, two-sided remote controlled toy vehicle with high speed, high maneuverability and high shock and crash resistance. A remote control scheme based on digital signals embedded in infrared beams allows improved control and high-speed terrestrial and aerial stunt capabilities. The toy intelligently implements infrared communication, on board micro-control units, flip sensors, sounds, lights and other pre-programmed actions. Various stunt accessories are also provided, to increase the play value of the toy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Thinking Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert Wai Tai Chan, Ka Hung (William) Ko
  • Patent number: 8882560
    Abstract: A robotic system is integrated with one or more mobile computing devices. Physical configurations of individual components of the system in physical space, or agents, under control of a user or users, are duplicated in a representation in virtual space. Some degree of real-time parity is maintained between the physical and virtual spaces, so as to implement a virtual environment that mirrors the physical one. Events occurring within one environment can directly influence and bear consequence on the course of events occurring within the other environment. Elements of virtual space thereby become truly interdependent and unified on a peer footing with elements in physical space. In at least one embodiment, the system of the present invention is implemented as an application in entertainment, such as the manifestation of a video game in physical space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Anki, Inc.
    Inventors: Boris Sofman, Hanns Tappeiner, Mark Matthew Palatucci, Patrick Lee DeNaele
  • Patent number: 8876571
    Abstract: A system for performing an aerial display. The system includes a plurality of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and a ground control system with a processor executing a fleet manager module and with memory storing a different flight plan for each of the UAVs. The system further includes a marionette with a body and articulatable appendages attached to the body. The body and appendages are supported with tether lines extending between the marionette and the UAVs. Then, during a display time period, the UAVs concurrently execute the flight plans to position and articulate the marionette within a display air space. In some embodiments, the UAVs each is a multicopter, and each of the multicopters includes a local controller operating to move the multicopter through a series of way points defined by the flight plan associated with the multicopter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Scott Trowbridge, James Alexander Stark, Clifford Wong
  • Patent number: 8845385
    Abstract: A system includes a drivable surface that includes location encoding markings. A mobile agent is provided that is capable of assuming a plurality of different lateral positions while traveling along the surface. The mobile agent includes a drive motor, an imaging system, a vehicle wireless transceiver, and a microcontroller. The mobile agent is adapted to detect the markings as the mobile agent travels along the surface, to ascertain a current lateral position of the mobile agent with respect to the surface, and to maintain a substantially consistent lateral position of the mobile agent with respect to the surface (for example to follow a lane). A basestation may be provided that includes a controller operatively coupled to a basestation wireless transceiver. An action to be implemented by the mobile agent can be determined by the basestation and wirelessly communicated to the mobile agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Anki, Inc.
    Inventors: Boris Sofman, Hanns W. Tappeiner, Mark Palatucci
  • Patent number: 8818571
    Abstract: A steering control system for a RC vehicle is provided. The steering control system comprises an angular speed sensor and a processing unit. The processing unit is configured to receive a first steering signal from a receiver of the radio controlled vehicle which indicates a position of a control stick or a control wheel of a controller for the radio controlled vehicle and to receive a signal from the angular speed sensor. The first steering signal is adjusted based on the signal from the angular speed sensor and the position of a control stick or a control wheel of a controller to improve stability of the vehicle without deteriorating a maneuverability of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: HPI Racing & HB
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Iida, Masahide Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8810378
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to enhanced control of user configurable devices, such as robots. One system may include a user-configurable device and an on-vehicle programmable controller coupled to the user-configurable device. This system may further include a wireless receiver coupled to the on-vehicle programmable controller via one signal wire, where a substantial portion of the receiver-controlled communications occur using the one signal wire. Another system may include (alternatively or in combination as appropriate) a user-configurable device including an on-vehicle programmable controller and a first tether port. The system may also include a remote control transmitter with at least one wireless output and a second tether port, where the transmitter is communicably coupled to the user-configurable remote control device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Innovation First, Inc.
    Inventors: David Anthony Norman, Robert H. Mimlitch, Corey Lee Chitwood, Richard D. Torrance, Mark J. Lambert
  • Publication number: 20140227941
    Abstract: A toy model having a chassis, radio control circuitry, shock absorbers, and a swing servo mechanism configured to move left and right wheels of the model up and down. A leaning mechanism in communication with the radio control circuitry and the swing servo is employed, and the leaning mechanism is configured to provide a leaning movement and to shift a center of gravity of the model in a steering direction. Steering knuckles are twisted against steering holders to make a twisted angle with respect to a pivot pin, and the pivot pin enables the simultaneous leaning movement of the model and steering to an inclined side of the model.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicants: J-MARKETING CO., LTD., TOP NOTCH TOYS LIMITED
    Inventor: Masaki SUZUKI
  • Publication number: 20140170933
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for programming an electronic speed controller for a radio controlled model including a programmer for interfacing a personal computer to the RX port of the electronic speed controller. The electronic speed controller software may be updated, modified or replaced through the RX port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2014
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: CASTLE CREATIONS, INC.
    Inventor: PATRICK D. DEL CASTILLO
  • Patent number: 8747182
    Abstract: A system includes a drivable surface that includes location encoding markings. A mobile agent is provided that includes a drive motor, an imaging system for taking images of the markings, a vehicle wireless transceiver, and a microcontroller operatively coupled to the motor, the imaging system, and the vehicle wireless transceiver. A basestation is provided that includes a controller operatively coupled to a basestation wireless transceiver. Via wireless communication between the wireless transceivers of the mobile agent and the basestation, an action to be implemented by the mobile agent can be determined by the basestation and communicated to the mobile agent, whereupon the microcontroller of the mobile agent controls detailed movement of the mobile agent on the drivable surface based on images taken of the markings of the drivable surface by the imaging system to cause the mobile agent to implement the action on the drivable surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Anki, Inc.
    Inventors: Boris Sofman, Hanns Tappeiner, Mark Matthew Palatucci
  • Patent number: 8715034
    Abstract: A toy car and a remote control regulate the speed and movement of the car. A source of power energizes the drive motor thereby to change the vehicle speed and stopping. One or more sensors measure the speed and environment barriers relative to the vehicle. The drive motor speed can be increased decreased or stopped. The toy vehicle with a battery operates as a rechargeable system. A station on a track has an outlet on or in adjacency with a surface on which the remotely controllable toy is movable to and from electrical outlet contacts. The remote controlled toy has inlet contacts for electrically engaging the outlet contacts. The station is part of a track and the toy vehicle is normally directed to travel on the track and to a station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Silverlit Limited
    Inventor: Kwok Leung Wong
  • Patent number: 8713846
    Abstract: A remote control decoy for luring game animals includes a motorized frame with wheels, a wireless remote controller, and at least one life-like decoy shell. The motorized frame is a miniature wheeled vehicle having battery-powered drive and steering motors and a mounting plate for securing the decoy. The wireless controller transmits control signals to a receiver within the motorized frame, thereby allowing a user to remotely control the movement of the decoy. In use, the user moves the decoy in order to lure prey while occupying a concealed location. The user can also selectively interchange the type of decoy being used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Inventor: Christopher R. Thrash
  • Patent number: 8678876
    Abstract: Apparatuses for remote control by a remote object is disclosed that includes one or more sensors configured to communicate with the remote object to obtain ranging information of the apparatus relative to the remote object; and a processing system configured to provide local control of the apparatus based on the ranging information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: QUALCOMM Incorporated
    Inventors: Anthony G. Persaud, Adrian J. Prentice, George Joseph, Mark R. Storch
  • Patent number: 8672726
    Abstract: Methods of establishing a fully operable remotely controlled model vehicle system for a model vehicle. The method includes the steps of transferring a model vehicle, including a receiver for receiving a control signal from a remote control signal source to control operation of the model vehicle, the transfer being from a first party to a second party, and the transfer taking place without the remote control signal source, and the second party providing the remote control signal source following transfer of the model vehicle to the second party to complete the fully operable remotely controlled model vehicle system. The transfer from the first party to the second party may be a sale of the model vehicle with the receiver, but without the remote control signal source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Horizon Hobby, Inc.
    Inventor: David Ribbe
  • Patent number: 8632376
    Abstract: A vehicle chase game includes a first game object and a second game object. A second game object scans for a projected spot on an overhead surface. The second game object detects the projected spot on the overhead surface and gathers location information based on the detected projected spot. The second game object generates a position of a first game object based on the location information. The second game object transfers the position of the first game object to the chase game application program. The chase game application program selects a behavior based on the position of the first game object, where a goal of the behavior is to drive the second game object to intercept the first game object. The chase game application program sends instructions to the second game object's mechanical and electrical systems to execute the selected behaviors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: IRobot Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Dooley, Nikolai Romanov, Paolo Pirjanian, Lihu Chiu, Enrico Di Bernardo
  • Patent number: 8585457
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for operating a digital control system for several objects to be controlled, in particular for track-guided toy vehicles on a car racing track, with in each case at least one digital decoder in each object to be controlled and with several operating devices, which each have at least one activation element for controlling an object assigned to the operating device. The assignment of the operating device to an object is set up by a digital address being assigned to each operating device. The digital decoder, depending on the status information of the activation element of the assigned operating device, transmits control commands to the toy vehicle. By this process, the digital decoder selects the control commands derived from the status information for the toy vehicle, depending additionally on the physical state of the toy vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Stadlbauer Spiel—und Freizeitartikel GmbH
    Inventors: Roman Missler, Uwe Haass
  • Patent number: 8588972
    Abstract: A method for creating low-cost interactive entertainment robots is disclosed. The cost of the robots is reduced by using a commodity computing device: smart phone, and by having robotic bodies use a decoder of a set of movement commands that facilitates the interoperability between a variety of smart phones and a variety of robotic bodies. Smart phones are equipped with powerful CPU, touch screen, USB, camera, microphone, Bluetooth, WI-FI, etc. They are fit for being the robot control units with the relevant robot applications installed. The cost of robotic bodies can be reduced by minimizing the amount of processing and sensing there and having them focus on mechanical movements. Furthermore, by defining and using a set of movement commands that promotes interoperability between a variety of robot control units and a variety of robotic bodies, the cost of robotic bodies can be reduced through mass production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Hei Tao Fung
  • Patent number: 8574024
    Abstract: A hand held remote control unit includes a wireless signal transmitter configured to transmit a fixed frequency (tone) signal and a manually operated switch to selectively operate the transmitter to transmit the wireless tone signal. A toy has an appropriate wireless signal receiver and control circuit responsive to the tone signal that controls one or more electrically operated devices that can provide at least two different, electrically activated responses of the toy apparent to an observer. The control circuit provides a sequence of two or more different predetermined responses of the toy in response to sequential reception and loss of the tone signal, the sequence of responses being repeated after completion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Nicholas Amireh
  • Patent number: 8562387
    Abstract: A driving mechanism for a radio-controlled toy vehicle is disclosed comprising a radio controlled drive assembly with a frame, two (2) large central wheels, and two (2) small motor driven drive wheels. The large wheels are driven by two (2) independent motors with drive wheels attached which engage the outer perimeter of each large wheel. The drive train and power supply are positioned upon a platform of the frame. Front and rear midpoints of the frame are provided with a finger protrusion to support the vehicle when changing directions or when balance is lost. The wheels are driven independently enabling one (1) wheel to be driven forward while the other one (1) is driven backwards to allow the vehicle to spin in place about a center point. The motors can be driven in a simultaneous manner to propel the vehicle forward or backward. Proportional steering enables the vehicle to turn corners and produce movements that follow curves or arcs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Inventor: Gary R. Henthorne
  • Patent number: 8491351
    Abstract: The embodiments of the invention provide for a toy vehicle having a smoking tire function where during play of the toy vehicle the simulated smoke gives the toy vehicle an appearance of the toy vehicle performing a burnout, such as that which is seen as being performed by high horse powered drift cars, where the simulated smoke is generated by heating of a smoke fluid or through a water fogger. In either case the simulated smoke is released proximate the at least a wheel thereof to give the toy vehicle an appearance of having smoking tires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Trzecieski
  • Patent number: 8371900
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for operating a digital control system for track-guided toy vehicles (10), with at least two tracks (24, 26), wherein at least one set of points (34) is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Stadlbauer Spiel-und Freizeitartikel GmbH
    Inventors: Uwe Haass, Roman Missler
  • Patent number: 8366510
    Abstract: A shooting toy where players determine whether or not a shot has hit a target based on image recognition is provided. A determination section (43) of a controller (5) determines whether or not the shot has hit the target based on image recognition by comparing a target image to be recognized, acquired by a target image data acquiring section (41) with a reference image stored in a reference image data storing section (45). A game executing section (35) proceeds with the game based on a hit signal outputted from the determination section (43).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Atsushi Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 8353737
    Abstract: A toy system includes a drivable surface that includes location encoding markings. A toy vehicle or mobile agent is provided that includes a drive motor, an imaging system for taking images of the markings, a vehicle wireless transceiver, and a microcontroller operatively coupled to the motor, the imaging system, and the vehicle wireless transceiver. A basestation is provided that includes a controller operatively coupled to a basestation wireless transceiver. Via wireless communication between the wireless transceivers of the toy vehicle and the basestation, an action to be implemented by the toy vehicle can be determined by the basestation and communicated to the toy vehicle, whereupon the microcontroller of the toy vehicle controls detailed movement of the toy vehicle on the drivable surface based on images taken of the markings of the drivable surface by the imaging system to cause the toy vehicle to implement the action on the drivable surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Anki, Inc.
    Inventors: Boris Sofman, Hanns W. Tappeiner, Mark Palatucci
  • Publication number: 20130005215
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a remote control assembly including a control unit and a toy vehicle. The control unit includes a series of control unit directional indicia to indicate the direction the vehicle will travel when an associated actuator on the control unit is engaged. The toy vehicle, furthermore, includes vehicle directional indicia, each vehicle indicium corresponding to an indicium on the control unit. As a result, the assembly includes a pair of matching indicia—one on the control unit and one on the toy vehicle—that indicates to a child the direction in which a vehicle will travel when an associated actuator on the control unit is engaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Inventors: Robert Tell, David B. Fisher
  • Patent number: 8337274
    Abstract: A toy car and a remote control regulate the speed of the car. A source of supplemental power selectively energizes the drive motor thereby to selectively permit the vehicle to move faster than the normal speed. A sensor measures the voltage to the vehicle motor. After stepping up the voltage to the drive motor, and detecting a drive motor current increase in excess of the capability of vehicle, the source of supplemental power is disabled. When a normal low voltage state is detected, the source of supplemental power in the vehicle is enabled whereby the motor supply voltage is permitted to increase above a normal low voltage state permitting more power to be provided to motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Silverlit Limited
    Inventor: Kwok Leung Wong
  • Patent number: 8330583
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and system for controlling a RC device via a secure radio link. In one embodiment of the invention, spread spectrum modulation may be employed which may provide a digital radio frequency (RF) link between a controller and a RC device. A controller may be coupled with a transmitter module and a radio controlled device may be coupled with a receiver module in accordance with the present invention to provide an add-on upgrade capability. The method and system for controlling a RC device may also include error detection and correction, interpolation of lost packets, failsafe technology and force-feedback telemetric technology to further enhance the user experience with radio controlled devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Horizon Hobby, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Beard, John Adams, Mathew Lee, Eric Meyers
  • Publication number: 20120295512
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for programming an electronic speed controller for a radio controlled model including a programmer for interfacing a personal computer to the RX port of the electronic speed controller. The electronic speed controller software may be updated, modified or replaced through the RX port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: Castle Creations, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick D. del Castillo
  • Patent number: 8303367
    Abstract: A neutrally buoyant flying toy has a tail fin assembly and a movable weight element that are configured such that the toy moves forward and can be steered left and right by controlled motion of the tail fin, and such that the toy ascends or descends by controlled motion of the weight element. Most preferably, the toy is configured as a fish and is remote controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: William Mark Corporation
    Inventor: Blake English