Patents Examined by Dolores Collins
  • Toy figurine with removable features
    Patent number: 9345976
    Abstract: A toy figurine is disclosed. The toy figurine includes a body to which one or more plates are coupled. The toy figurine includes a launching mechanism that is used to launch a projectile from the toy figurine. The plates cover the launching mechanism when the plates are mounted to the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2016
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Josiah To Sang Li, William J. Kerner, James Austin Rucker
  • Wearable partial task surgical simulator
    Patent number: 9336693
    Abstract: A wearable device for simulating wounds and injuries received during a trauma event includes a raiment and vest for covering the torso of a person. The raiment has an outer surface with a color and a texture comparable to human skin. Mounted on the outer surface is at least one wound simulator formed with an orifice that is in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir. Thus, the person can selectively expel a blood-like fluid from the reservoir, and through the wound simulator orifice, to simulate a trauma event. The vest includes an artificial rib cage and prosthetic internal organs juxtaposed with at least one wound simulator to simulate internal effects of a trauma event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Inventor: Stuart Charles Segall
  • Soothing device with removably attached toy
    Patent number: 9320975
    Abstract: A combination soother-toy device includes a soothing device such as a pacifier, a toy such as a plush animal character, and a coupling that removably attaches them together. In some embodiments, the coupling includes a transverse tab and a transverse opening that couple and decouple by a transverse motion. In this way, 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. In some embodiments, the tab (transverse or not) is retained on the toy by a primary attachment such as stitching and a secondary retainer for redundancy as a safety feature. For example, the secondary retainer can be a tether attaching the tab extension arm to the toy, or wings extending from the tab extension arm laterally beyond the toy opening through which the extension arm extends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: KIDS II, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher McClintock, Brittany Elson, Bradford Reese
  • Playing card conduction structure
    Patent number: 9266013
    Abstract: A playing card conduction structure includes a base, a card case, a video camera, and an interruption sense device. The card case is disposed on the base and has positioning recesses to engage with positioning protrusions of the base. The base includes a conduction mechanism therein. The outer side of the base is provided with a power mechanism for supplying a power source to the conduction mechanism. The card case is provided with an inclined bottom board having a first opening and a second opening. A guide mechanism is in contact with playing cards through the first opening and the second opening. The power mechanism includes two separate powers with different rotation speeds. Thereby, the playing cards can be conducted stably to lower the mistake of conduction, such that the game process is smooth and quick to save time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Inventor: Tzu-Hsiang Tseng
  • Magnetic dominos game
    Patent number: 9266015
    Abstract: A magnetic dominos game set with pieces that magnetically connect end to end, side to side and side to end, and methods for manufacturing and playing magnetic dominos.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Inventors: Isaac Estrada, Zakkery D. Estrada
  • Ambulatory toy
    Patent number: 9233313
    Abstract: An ambulatory toy includes a body; a drive mechanism coupled to the body; a plurality of leg members coupled to the drive mechanism, each of the leg members having a distal end disposed downwardly in a first position and adapted to contact a support surface; and a self-righting member coupled to at least one of the legs. The self-righting member adapted to move the distal ends of the legs of the toy from a second position to the first downwardly disposed position. The method of self-righting using the self-righting member coupled to the leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: Innovation First, Inc.
    Inventors: Raul Olivera, David Anthony Norman, Robert H. Mimlitch, III, Jeffrey R. Waegelin
  • Point-of-sale integrated storage devices, systems for programming integrated storage devices, and methods for providing custom sounds to toys
    Patent number: 9235949
    Abstract: Systems and methods which allow for the self-service selection and recording of local storage devices which can be provided as part of a larger object such as a toy. Specifically, the systems and methods discussed herein generally comprise self-service kiosks or other related systems whereby a final consumer, who is engaged in the manufacture or creation of a personalized or semi-personalized toy, can provide for transfer of sound or other data to a local storage device which will be incorporated into the toy in an on-demand fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: BUILD-A-BEAR Retail Management, Inc.
    Inventor: Brandon Elliott
  • Sorting device for sorting playing cards
    Patent number: 9227132
    Abstract: A sorting device for sorting a stack of playing cards laid in an input bin in four stacks and removing them at the four cardinal points of the sorting device includes two receiving bins disposed on top of each other, of which the upper receiving bins are adjustable in height in order to selectively deposit playing cards in the lower receiving bins or upper receiving bins. The upper receiving bins are disposed on a rotatable subframe that, after sorting, is rotatable for a quarter of a turn in order to bring the upper receiving bins into a removal position in which the playing cards can be removed at the four cardinal points. At the four removal positions, doors are present that open automatically and through which ejector pins then move the playing cards outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: BRIDGEDRIVE PRODUCTS B.V.
    Inventors: Rogier van Rossen, Sander Martijn Havik, Maarten Paul Wilming, Wouter Erik Sebastiaan Couzijn
  • Variable point generation craps game
    Patent number: 9227133
    Abstract: A variable point generation craps game includes a random indicator generator providing only members of a predetermined set of indicators, at least two point value selectors and a bet. Each of the indicators designates a point value selector, each of which has an initial state providing all possible point values obtainable, and with the same probability, from a single roll of a standard pair of dice. The point value selectors yield at least one point for the craps game upon designation by the random indicator generator. The bet depends upon at least one point value selected by at least one of the point value selectors. In a variation, a single point value selector is used and the random indicator generator designates an integer that determines a predetermined operation to be performed upon the point value selector to yield at least one point for the craps game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventors: Alireza Pirouzkhah, Susan Louise Melendez
  • Automatic system and methods for accurate card handling
    Patent number: 9220971
    Abstract: A playing card handling device comprises a card storing area that supports a stack of playing cards, the card storing area having a playing card support surface. A card removing system removes playing cards individually from the bottom of the stack. A pivoting arm is automatically moved by a motor between at least two positions, wherein in a first position the end of the arm opposite a pivot is disengaged from a playing card at the top of the stack and in a second position the end of the arm is engaged with a playing card at the top of the stack. A processor in the playing card handling device directs movement of the pivoting arm between at least the first and second positions when a predetermined number of cards is present in the card storing area. Methods of card handling include employing the use of such a pivotal arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: Bally Gaming, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Rynda, Feraidoon Bourbour, Ronald R. Swanson, Attila Grauzer
  • Collapsible enclosure for playing games on computers and gaming consoles
    Patent number: 9186577
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a portable, collapsible enclosure for use with a portable game console or computer for playing video games on a large screen television where the game involves tracking the position and movement of a moving object. The enclosure has a fabric cover and a frame which is movable between a collapsed position whereby the enclosure may be easily stored and an expanded position for playing a game. The fabric cover of the enclosure in the expanded position has an open front, side and top walls and a rear wall. The rear wall is provided as a netting material which is selected to arrest the movement of a moving object projected into the enclosure through the open front, while permitting a user to observe an image displayed on a large screen television placed to the rear or side of the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Visual Sports Systems
    Inventors: Daniel Weitzner, Peter Muellerchen, Chris Scott
  • Roulette wheel with smart cover
    Patent number: 9174117
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for delaying an outcome of a roulette game is disclosed. Accordingly, the system includes a roulette wheel and a glass cover attached to the roulette wheel, the glass cover configured to switch between a transparent state and an opaque state in response to electrical signals. Game circuitry is configured to operate a ball release mechanism to launch a ball around an inner circumference of the roulette wheel, and to send electrical signals to the glass cover while the ball is in to change the glass cover from the transparent state to the opaque state so that the ball cannot be viewed from outside the glass cover. After the ball has stopped, signals are sent to change the glass cover from the opaque state to the transparent state, so that the ball and the outcome of the game can be viewed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: Las Vegas Sands Corp.
    Inventor: Andrew MacDonald
  • Bubble wand and associated systems and methods
    Patent number: 9162156
    Abstract: A bubble wand includes a primary member and an auxiliary member. The primary member is substantially entirely formed in a first, single plane and defines an elongated slot and a first plurality of bubble-forming rings. The first plurality of bubble-forming rings includes a different bubble-forming ring positioned on each of at least two opposing sides of the elongated slot. Each of the first plurality of bubble-forming rings defines an opening therethrough. The auxiliary member is substantially entirely formed in a second, single plane and is coupled to the primary member such that the auxiliary member extends through the elongated slot of the primary member such that a first side portion of the auxiliary member is maintained on a first side of the primary member and a second side portion of the auxiliary member is maintained on a second side of the primary member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: TARGET BRANDS, INC.
    Inventor: Dustin M. Cripe
  • Die for use in game play
    Patent number: 9155958
    Abstract: A die having at least two variable qualities that convey information for use in game play, wherein the variable qualities randomly change independently of one another upon rolling the die. Therefore, multiple independent random outcomes are produced each roll of the die. Preferably, at least one of the variable qualities is the color of the die such that the die changes color in response to sensor-detected movement of the die.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2015
    Inventor: Jack Zylkin
  • Coded playing cards
    Patent number: 9144732
    Abstract: A playing card provided with identification code which is arranged along opposed long sides of the card and mutually symmetrically. Each code comprises at least six code fields of essentially equal size that occupy a significant area of the rim area of the respective edges of the card. According to a preferred embodiment, the codes are provided in that the surface of the entire playing card is reflective of ultraviolet light, where the surface has been de-masked to define the code fields.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: BRIDGE COMPANY A/S
    Inventor: Peter Just
  • Tennis racket having an optimized striking area
    Patent number: 9119993
    Abstract: A tennis racket having an optimized striking area and a ball collection portion. The tennis racket includes a handle, an oval frame attached to the handle, the oval frame including a U-shaped indentation, a plurality of vertical and horizontal strings attached to the oval frame, and a replaceable clip, wherein the plurality of vertical and horizontal strings form a sweet spot area, the sweet spot area having a size, and wherein a depth of the U-shaped indentation affects the size of the sweet spot area. The tennis racket may include one or more bars attached to the oval frame to further manage the sweet spot area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: OJOEE Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Fellini, Anthony Rosso, Marisa Hodges
  • Tablet-type device configured for underwater or severe environment
    Patent number: 9104370
    Abstract: A tablet-type device that is suitable for use underwater or in a severe environment is provided. A length of waterproof vellum is stretched between two rollers to form a surface for recording information. The tablet is designed to be very easy to manipulate underwater, such as not to sink or ascend rapidly if let go. On the other hand, the device also includes provisions to allow the device to be secured to the user, another device, a surface, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Inventor: Mark Lloyd Hagan
  • Toy connector system
    Patent number: 9101851
    Abstract: A toy connector system comprising a plurality of connectors 102, elongated connectable members 104, and planar connectable members 105. The connectable members 104, 105 may come in a variety of shapes and configurations. The connectable members 104, 105 comprise an orifice 404, 1510 into which the connector 102 is fitted so that the connectable members 104, 105 may be reversibly connected to each other in a variety of different configurations via the connectors 102 to build a variety of structures. The toy connector system may further comprise end caps 106, wheels 110, bars 114, and other accessory parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2015
    Inventor: Maryam Habibi
  • Portable game devices having prize compartments and lock mechanisms
    Patent number: 9072962
    Abstract: A portable game device having a game ball passage, which may include a labyrinth and/or maze. A mechanical actuator may have a ball cavity to retain a ball when in a rest position and to release the ball into the game ball passage when in a first position. The device may include a prize compartment, a movable cover to enclose a first opening to the prize compartment, and a lock mechanism to releasably retain the cover in a closed position. The actuator may be controllable to unlock the cover with the ball. The device may include one or more ramped, angled, concave, and/or channeled surfaces to guide the ball as the actuator moves the ball. A second, uncovered opening to the prize compartment may be provided to insert a prize without unlocking the cover. The second opening may include feature(s) to inhibit removal of the prize through the uncovered opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: T.E. Brangs, Inc.
    Inventors: Elizabeth A. Grist, Ryan Singh
  • Apparatus for handling playing cards and method of use
    Patent number: 9061201
    Abstract: An apparatus (100) for a card game using physical playing cards (7), the apparatus comprising first and second card storage arrangements each comprising a respective generally cylindrical drum (1a), (1b) for storing a plurality of (cards 7), each arrangement having a plurality of card receiving spaces 6a, (6b), each card receiving space (6a), (6b) being arranged to store a respective single card (7). A card feeding arrangement is included which comprises a channel 4 extending between the drums (1a), (1b), for consecutively transferring cards (7) by gravity from a selected card receiving space (6a), (6b) in one of the first and second arrangements to a selected card receiving space (6a), (6b) in the other of the first and second arrangements via a card playing area wherein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Inventor: Olexandr Ivanovich Kyrychenko