Abstract: A system for molding a jointed linkage support system with joints that allow movement and bending in many directions and degrees of freedom. A chain-like linkage system made up of a series of joints is molded in a single step from materials having different melting temperatures in a series of alternating communicating mold cavities. The jointed linkage support system emerges from the mold fully assembled. An electrical switch may be provided within one of the joints between sleeves and rods whereby movement of the rod relative to the sleeve actuates the switch.

Abstract: A toy figure having multiple articulating limbs connected to the torso by pivot joints that are molded in a vertical injection molding step that forms and pivotally interconnects, in situ, one member of the pivot joint to a second, pre-formed member of the pivot joint.

Abstract: A toy figure having multiple articulating limbs connected to the torso by pivot joints that are molded in a vertical injection molding step that forms and pivotally interconnects, in situ, one member of the pivot joint to a second, pre-formed member of the pivot joint.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of injection molding a part having an undercut region and a method of assembling a jointed structure from several parts. A two-part mold has a common cavity with part of the cavity in each mold part. A combined pin-in-a-sleeve extends into the cavity in one of the mold parts in order to form a bore in a part to be molded in that cavity. The pin provides a portion shaped to form a first undercut region in the bore. A second pin extends into the cavity in the other of the two mold parts. The two pins are aligned to form a single bore in the molded part while in the cavity. The second pin also has a portion shaped to form a second undercut region in the bore. After an injection molded part is made, the mold opens a limited and discrete distance to allow the molded part to be released from the hold of the mold cavity. Then, the mold opens fully for the continuation of a multi-step operation to pull the pins out of the undercut regions.

Abstract: A toy figure having multiple articulating limbs connected to the torso by pivot joints that are molded in a vertical injection molding step that forms and pivotally interconnects, in situ, one member of the pivot joint to a second, pre-formed member of the pivot joint.

Abstract: A toy figure having multiple articulating limbs connected to the torso by pivot joints that are molded in a vertical injection molding step that forms and pivotally interconnects, in situ, one member of the pivot joint to a second, pre-formed member of the pivot joint.

Abstract: A method of assembling a jointed structure from several parts is provided. At least two discrete parts having ends that cooperate to form a movable joint between the parts are placed in a groove formed in a plate. The parts are prevented from being displaced out of the groove when pressure is applied to at least one end of the groove to force the cooperating ends of the parts together to form joints which link the parts. The jointed linkage can then be removed from the plate as an assembled structure.

Abstract: A system for molding a jointed linkage support system with joints that allow movement and bending in many directions and degrees of freedom. A chain-like linkage system made up of a series of joints is molded in a single step from materials having different melting temperatures in a series of alternating communicating mold cavities. The jointed linkage support system emerges from the mold fully assembled. An electrical switch may be provided within one of the joints between sleeves and rods whereby movement of the rod relative to the sleeve actuates the switch.

Abstract: A molded product is made comprising a low-density product having a porous volume including cells and an essentially non-porous layer adjacent an external surface of the product. Essentially none of the cells are exposed at the external surface. The external surface is sufficiently tough, smooth, strong and durable to be suitable as a substrate for silk-screen printing.

Abstract: A toy figure having multiple articulating limbs connected to the torso by pivot joints that are molded in a vertical injection molding step that forms and pivotally interconnects, in situ, one member of the pivot joint to a second, pre-formed member of the pivot joint.

Abstract: A method of injection molding a part having two undercut regions using a two-part mold. A combined pin-in-a-sleeve extends into the cavity in each of the mold parts in order to form a bore in a part to be molded in that cavity. Each pin provides a portion shaped to form an undercut region in the bore. The pins abut each other. After an injection molded part is made, the mold opens a limited and discrete distance to allow the molded part to be released from the hold of the mold cavity. Then, the mold opens fully for the continuation of a multi-step operation to pull the pins out of the undercut regions.

Abstract: A jointed linkage support system is provided with joints that allow movement and bending in many directions and degrees of freedom. A chain-like linkage system made up of a series of joints is molded in a single step from materials having different melting temperatures in a series of alternating communicating mold cavities. The jointed linkage support system emerges from the mold fully assembled. An electrical switch may be provided within.one of the joints between sleeves and rods whereby movement of the rod relative to the sleeve actuates the switch.

Abstract: A molded product is made comprising a low-density product having an impermeable surface. The impermeable surface integral with the low density interior is suitable for receiving various types of brightly colored finishes. It is also contemplated that a non-porous plastic film may be molded in place on the surface of the molded product.

Abstract: A support system is made up of a plurality of alternating rods and sleeves. Each sleeve forms a pair of sockets configured to movably receive and retain one of the first or second ends of adjacent rods, forming a bendable linkage. A cover is provided to surround the linkage, and a coupler is provided to cover the linkage. An electrical switch may be provided within one of the joints between sleeves and rods whereby movement of the rod relative to the sleeve actuates the switch.

Abstract: A toy figure having multiple articulating limbs connected to the torso by pivot joints that are molded in a vertical injection molding step that forms and pivotally interconnects, in situ, one member of the pivot joint to a second, pre-formed member of the pivot joint.

Abstract: A toy robot capable of simulating walking motion with robotic legs and/or feet that rise and fall with respect to the ground. Some preferred embodiments of the toy robot are capable of changing directions effectively by using independent motors in each of two robotic feet. In another aspect of the present invention, a toy robot can include several different interchangeable arm mechanisms capable of complex motions and/or functions. The toy robot is preferably controlled by a remote control unit capable of communicating with the toy robot in order to control the walking motion of the toy robot and the motions and functions of the arm mechanisms.

Abstract: A toy figure having multiple articulating limbs connected to the torso by pivot joints that are molded in a vertical injection molding step that forms and pivotally interconnects, in situ one member of the pivot joint to a second, pre-formed member of the pivot joint.

Abstract: A toy figure having multiple articulating limbs connected to the torso by pivot joints that are molded in a vertical injection molding step that forms and pivotally interconnects, in situ, one member of the pivot joint to a second, preformed member of the pivot joint.

Abstract: A toy figure having multiple articulating limbs connected to the torso by pivot joints that are molded in a vertical injection molding step that forms and pivotally interconnects, in situ, one member of the pivot joint to a second, pre-formed member of the pivot joint.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of injection molding a part having an undercut region and a method of assembling a jointed structure from several parts. A two-part mold has a common cavity with part of the cavity in each mold part. A combined pin-in-a-sleeve extends into the cavity in one of the mold parts in order to form a bore in a part to be molded in that cavity. The pin provides a portion shaped to form a first undercut region in the bore. A second pin extends into the cavity in the other of the two mold parts. The two pins are aligned to form a single bore in the molded part while in the cavity. The second pin also has a portion shaped to form a second undercut region in the bore. After an injection molded part is made, the mold opens a limited and discrete distance to allow the molded part to be released from the hold of the mold cavity. Then, the mold opens fully for the continuation of a multi-step operation to pull the pins out of the undercut regions.