MODULAR FIGURINE AND ACCESSORY SYSTEM

Abstract

The present disclosure provides various systems and methods for a customized modular figurine and accessory system having any number of components. A user may select from various possible components and accessories to assemble a unique and customized modular figurine using the artistic expression of the user. The customized modular figurine and accessory system may include a plurality of modular components, for example, a torso component, a head component, a wing component, and a skirt component, each of these individual components may then be selected by an individual to create and assemble a customized modular figurine. A support riser may extend into or through various components of an assembled customized modular figurine. A customizable display component may also be provided.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Ser. No. 61/484,020, filed May 9, 2011 titled “MODULAR DECORATIVE FIGURE SYSTEM,” which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for providing a modular figurine and accessory system. More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to a customizable modular figurine system that includes a torso component customizable with various head, wing, floss, and accessory components. The present disclosure also provides various display and arrangement configurations.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Systems and methods are disclosed herein for providing a customized modular figurine. In various embodiments, a customizable modular figurine and accessory system may include a torso component configured to be customized by the addition of various other components and/or embellishing accessories. The torso component may include a core material at least partially coated with an elastomeric coating. In some embodiments, the torso component may include arms and legs. In alternative embodiments, arm and leg components may be configured to be coupled to the torso component. The torso and/or other components may be wrapped with a floss component. The floss component may comprise one or more elongated strands of floss configured to wrap around the torso and/or other components constituting the figurine. For example, the feet, hands, arms, legs, and/or torso may be wrapped with one or more strands of floss.

The torso component may be customized by the addition of a head component. In some embodiments, any one of a plurality of unique head components may be positioned on a top portion of the torso component. In some embodiments, a wig component may be coupled to a top portion of a head component. Alternatively, each unique head component may include an integral wig component. A head mount extending from the top portion of the torso component may be configured to interchangeably connect one of the plurality of head components to the top portion of the torso component, so as to form a modular figurine comprising a torso and a head.

The modular figurine may be further customized by the addition of a wing component, a clothing component, and/or an accessory component. Accordingly, the modular figurine and accessory system may include a plurality of unique wings or components interchangeably connected to the torso component. A plurality of unique clothing components may be interchangeably positioned on the torso component. Additionally, a plurality of embellishing accessory components may be interchangeably connected to the modular figurine in order to embellish the modular figurine.

In some embodiments, a magnetic connection member may be positioned in a rear portion of the torso component. The magnetic connection member may be configured to selectively couple the modular figurine to an end of a wand. Alternative connection members may be utilized in some embodiments. For example, a wand may include a connection member configured to secure the torso of the modular figurine. In some embodiments, one or more customized modular figurines may be displayed on a stand connected to a support riser. A support riser may extend from a lower portion of the torso component, through the torso component and the head mount, and into one of the plurality of head components. One or more customized modular figurines may be displayed in an enclosure, such as a plastic jar, or in a frame.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the disclosure are described herein, including various embodiments of the disclosure illustrated in the figures listed below.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a torso component of a customizable modular figurine and accessory system, the torso component including integrated arms and legs.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a customizable modular figurine and accessory system, including a torso component and various accessory components.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a customized modular figurine, including various accessory components, connected to a base via a support riser.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a plurality of accessory components for use with a customizable modular figurine and accessory system.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a customized modular figurine displayed within a jar-type enclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of multiple customized modular figurines displayed in a display frame.

FIG. 7 illustrates various perspective views of several potential embodiments of components of a customizable modular figurine and accessory system.

FIG. 8 provides a flow chart depicting a method of assembling various components of a customizable modular figurine and accessory system to create a customized modular figurine.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a customized modular figurine including a cavity in the torso configured to receive one embodiment of a magnetic connection member.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a customized modular figurine magnetically coupled to the end of a wand via a magnetic connection member.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment in which a wand includes a connection member configured to secure the torso of a customized modular figurine.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a customized modular figurine magnetically coupled to the end of a positionable wand.

In the following description, numerous specific details are provided for a thorough understanding of the various embodiments disclosed herein. The systems and methods disclosed herein can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In addition, in some cases, well-known structures, materials, or operations may not be shown or described in detail in order to avoid obscuring aspects of the disclosure. Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more alternative embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure provides various embodiments and variations of customizable modular figurine and accessory systems and methods for assembling the same. According to various embodiments, a customizable modular figurine and accessory system may include various components and accessories that may be positioned on or coupled to a torso component to form a customized modular figurine. A user may select from a variety of components and accessories in order to create a unique and personal customizable modular figurine. In various embodiments, the number of components and/or accessories may be sufficient to provide any number of possible permutations.

A customizable modular figurine and accessory system may include a torso component. The torso component may include a core material at least partially coated with an elastomeric coating. In some embodiments, the torso component may include arms and legs. In alternative embodiments, arm and leg components may be selectively coupled to the torso component. The torso and/or other components may be wrapped with a floss component. The floss component may comprise one or more elongated strands of floss configured to wrap around the torso and/or other components constituting the figurine. For example, the feet, hands, arms, legs, and/or torso may be wrapped with one or more strands of floss.

The torso component may be customized by the addition of a head component. In some embodiments, a user may select any one of a plurality of unique head components to be positioned on a top portion of the torso component. In some embodiments, a wig component may be coupled to a top portion of a head component. Alternatively, each unique head component may include an integrated wig component. A head mount extending from the top portion of the torso component may be configured to interchangeably connect one of the plurality of head components to the top portion of the torso component, so as to form a modular figurine comprising a torso and a head.

The modular figurine may be further customized by the addition of a wing component, a clothing component, and/or an accessory component. Accordingly, the modular figurine and accessory system may include a plurality of unique wing components interchangeably connectable to the torso component. A plurality of unique clothing components may be interchangeably positioned on the torso component. Additionally, a plurality of embellishing accessory components may be interchangeably connected to the modular figurine in order to embellish the modular figurine. Examples of clothing components include, but are not limited to, shirts, pants, skirts, and dresses. Examples of embellishing accessories include, but are not limited to, bows, ribbons, clips, flowers, jewels, necklaces, bracelets, hats, headpieces, hair, wigs, shoes, gloves, belts, beads, wings, wands, canes, bells, etc.

In some embodiments, a magnetic connection member may be positioned in a rear portion of the torso component. The magnetic connection member may be configured to selectively couple a customized modular figurine to an end of a wand. Alternative connection members may be utilized in some embodiments. For example, a wand may include a connection member configured to secure the torso of a customized modular figurine. In some embodiments, one or more customized modular figurines may be displayed on a base connected to a support riser. A support riser may extend from a lower portion of the torso component, through the torso component and the head mount, and into one of the plurality of head components. One or more customized modular figurines may be displayed in an enclosure, such as a plastic jar, or in a frame.

It will be readily understood that the components of the embodiments, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following more detailed description of various embodiments, as represented in the figures, is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, but is merely representative of various possible embodiments. While the various aspects of the embodiments are presented in drawings, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically indicated.

The usage of “figurine,” the diminutive form of the word figure, is not intended to limit the size of the customizable modular figurine and accessory system. It will be appreciated that the size of a customizable modular figurine and associated accessories may be scaled to any of a wide variety of sizes for a particular application.

The phrases “connected to,” “coupled to,” “secured to” and “in communication with” refer to any form of interaction between two or more entities, including mechanical, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, fluid, and thermal interaction. Two components may be coupled to each other even though they are not in direct contact with each other. For example, two components may be coupled to each other through an intermediate component, pivotally coupled, rotatably coupled, selectively coupled, and/or otherwise temporarily or permanently positioned with respect to one another.

Throughout the following description and the illustrated figures, the exemplary figurines resemble fairies. It will be appreciated that the current disclosure is equally applicable to any of a wide variety of humanoid, animal, mythical, and/or fantasy characters or dolls.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a torso component 110 of a customizable modular figurine and accessory system. The illustrated torso component 110 includes integrated arms 112 and legs 113. In alternative embodiments, arms 112 and/or legs 113 may be separate components selectively securable to torso component 110. In certain embodiments, a torso member, such as torso component 110 may serve as a “foundation” from which to assemble a customized modular figurine. A user may select from various torso shapes and/or colors. For example, a user may select a torso component 110 corresponding to a particular body type (e.g., thin or heavy) and/or a race (e.g., torso component color). Various other modular components, such as a head component, clothing, wing components, and embellishing accessory components may be coupled to torso component 110 in order to form a customized modular figurine.

Torso component 110 may include arms 112, legs 113, a torso 114, and feet 115. Torso component 110 may further include a head mount 111, configured to couple a head component to torso component 110. While portions of torso component 110 may not be numbered or designated as such, it will be appreciated that torso component 110 may resemble a human torso in some respects. In alternative embodiments, torso component 110 may resemble that of any of a wide variety of humanoid, animal, mythical, and/or fantasy characters or dolls. Anatomical terms which apply to the human torso (such as hands 116, for example) may also be applied to portions of torso component 110 which are clearly or substantially analogous to portions of the human torso, even if those portions of torso component 110 are not so designated in the figures or accompanying description. This pattern of disclosure applies equally to other components of the system disclosed and described herein.

Torso component 110 may include an inner core 117 covered with a coating 118. In FIG. 1, portions of coating 118 on arms 112 and legs 113 of torso component 110 are shown “cut away” such that inner core 117 is exposed. As illustrated in FIG. 1, these “cut away” sections are for illustration only; thus, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, inner core 117 may be completely covered by coating 118. In other embodiments, however, coating 118 may cover only a portion of inner core 117. For example, torso component 110 may be designed such that legs 113 and arms 112 are not coated, while other portions of torso component 110 are coated. In some embodiments, inner core 118 may be omitted or coating 117 may be omitted. In such embodiments, torso component 110 may be formed from material(s), such as a rubber, elastomer, polymer, cork, wood, plastic, and/or other suitable material(s).

Inner core 117 may include a material configured to allow torso component 110 to be deformable or shapeable. Inner core 117 may be a material which allows the user to arrange the shape and position of arms 112, legs 113, feet 115, torso 114, or other parts of the torso component 110. In various embodiments, a user may bend these components into a desired position. For example, inner core 117 may comprise a metal adapted to at least partially retain its shape when deformed. The type of material, the size or thickness of the core, and other parameters may be configured such that torso component 110 is readily deformable while having sufficient strength and resiliency such that it does not readily kink, crack, or fatigue. In some embodiments, inner core 117 may be composed such that a user may deform and shape the torso component 110 without the use of tools or other equipment. In alternative embodiments, the torso component 110 may be substantially rigid.

A wide variety of materials may be suitable for forming inner core 117. In some embodiments inner core 117 may generally be deformable, allowing the user to manipulate the shape and position of torso component 110. In other embodiments, inner core 117 may be more rigid, retaining its initial shape and not subject to further deformation by the user. Additionally, inner core 117 may also have magnetic properties. In such embodiments, the magnetic nature of inner core 117 may be utilized to attach other components to torso component 110 as well as to attach torso component 110 to other objects, such as a display component or a wand. Materials may be selected which contain more than one of these features, for example, inner core 117 may be formed of a material which is both deformable and magnetic. Inner core 117 may include a cavity configured to receive a connection member, such as a magnetic connection member. The connection member may allow other components or objects to be selectively coupled to torso component 110.

In embodiments in which torso component 110 is distinct from arms 112 and legs 113, arms 112 and legs 113 may include a separate inner core 117 and coating 118. In such an embodiment, arms 112 and legs 113 may be coupled to the torso portion 114 of torso component 110. In some embodiments, arms 112 and legs 113 may include inner core 117 and coating 118, while torso 114 of torso component 110 may be manufactured without a coating 118 or an inner core 117.

Coating 118 may be deposited on inner core 117 of torso component 110. This may be accomplished through any process known in the art, including, for example, dipping, spraying, painting, gluing, molding, and so on. In certain embodiments, coating 118 may be comprised of an elastomeric material configured to stretch or compress when inner core 117 is deformed, such that the coating 118 does not readily tear or break when inner core 117 is deformed. In some instances, coating 118 may be used to provide a desired color, surface, shape, texture or look to torso component 110. Additionally, coating 118 may have a safety function, protecting a user from sharp edges resulting from a cracked or broken inner core 117.

Coating 118 of torso component 110 may be wrapped with a floss component 119. In some embodiments, floss component 119 may be wrapped around the entire torso component 110. In other embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, floss component 119 may be wrapped around portions of torso component 110, leaving coating 118 exposed on certain portions of torso component 110, such as arms 112 and/or legs 113. In some embodiments, portions of arms 112 and/legs 113 may be wrapped with floss component 119. For example hands 116 and/or feet 115 may be wrapped with floss component 119. Floss component 119 may include multiple colors, multiple strands of floss, multiple thicknesses of floss, varying thicknesses of floss, tapered floss, various textures of floss, and/or multiple types of floss 119. For example, torso component 110 may be wrapped such that arms 112 and torso 114 are wrapped in one color of floss while legs 113 are wrapped in another color. Furthermore, differing varieties of floss (color, diameter, consistency, feel) may be utilized in wrapping portions of torso components 110. Floss component 119 may also give the torso component 110 a finished look and/or feel. Floss component 110 may comprise any elongated material suitable for wrapping, including, but not limited to, string, gauze, rope, rubber, bands, twine, etc.

Torso component 110 may also include hands 116. Hands 116 may be integrally formed with torso component 110, integrally formed with arms 112, or they may be formed separately and subsequently coupled to torso component 110 or arms 112. In some embodiments, hands 112 may be in the form and shape of human hands or resembling human hands, as illustrated in FIG. 1.

It will be appreciated that torso component 110 is one component of a customizable modular system. In some embodiments, the user of the system may determine which components to include in the assembly and which to omit. In certain embodiments, the user may not directly design or manipulate torso component 110, that is, the user may choose between one or more different torso components but not directly engage in the design and synthesis of torso component 110 itself (for example, wrapping floss or coating the inner core). In such embodiments, torso component 110 may be termed an “off the shelf” portion of the system. In other embodiments, the user may directly participate in the design of torso component 110. Likewise, any of the components disclosed below may be substantially “off the shelf,” as described, or the user may directly design the individual components. For example, a user may wrap a floss component 119 about portions of torso component 110.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a customizable modular figurine and accessory system 200, including a torso component 210 and various accessory components. Torso component 210 may be similar to any of the embodiments of torso components 110 described in conjunction with FIG. 1. It will be appreciated that many of the illustrated embodiments have analogous features. Accordingly, like features are designated with like reference numerals, with the leading digits incremented to correspond to the currently described figure number. (For instance, the torso component is designated “110” in FIG. 1 and a torso component is designated as “210” in FIG. 2.) Moreover, specific features of the customizable modular figurine and accessory system and related components shown in FIG. 2 and subsequent figures may not be shown or identified by a reference numeral in the drawings or specifically discussed in the written description that follows. However, such features may clearly be the same, or substantially the same, as features depicted in other embodiments and/or described with respect to such embodiments.

Accordingly, the relevant descriptions and alternatives of such features apply equally to the features of the customizable modular figurine and accessory system illustrated in other figures. Any suitable combination of the features, and variations of the same, described with respect to the customizable modular figurine and accessory system and components illustrated in FIG. 1, can be employed with the customizable modular figurine and accessory system and components of the other figures, and vice versa.

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a customizable modular figurine and accessory system 200 and shows how a customized modular figurine may be assembled from multiple modular components. The embodiment of FIG. 2 includes a torso component 210, a head component 220, a wing component 230, a skirt component 240, various accessory components 250, and a stand 260. Stand 260 may comprise a support riser 261 and a base 262, which in combination may support a customized modular figurine in any desired position. Other embodiments of customizable modular figurine and accessory systems may include only some of the components illustrated and/or may contain additional components. For example, multiple variations for each component shown in FIG. 2 may be available to a user. Accordingly, numerous possible permutations of the various components may be available.

Head component 220 of FIG. 2 includes a substantially spherical head 221, which is coupled to a plurality of strands of material forming hair 222 (i.e. a wig component). In other embodiments, head 221 may be formed in other shapes (for example, egg shaped or ellipsoidal). Likewise, hair 222 of head component 220 may have numerous alternative embodiments, including, for example, long hair, short hair, curly hair, wavy hair, styled hair, fine hair, thick hair, thin hair, and so on. Similarly, differing embodiments may include different colors of hair 222.

Head component 220 may also include a mounting location 223. Mounting location 223 of head component 220 may be configured to mate with head mount 211 of torso component 210. Any type of connection known in the art may be utilized to couple head component 220 to torso component 210. For example, interference fits, glue, ties, clamps, snaps, and similar connections may be used. Likewise, any component in this disclosure configured to be coupled to another component may be coupled through any of these exemplary methods or through any other method known in the art.

The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 also includes a wing component 230. Wing component 230 of FIG. 2 includes wings 231 and a mounting location 232. Wings 231 of FIG. 2 may have some visual similarity to plant leaves or wings of a bird, fairy, bat, or other animal. It will be appreciated that wings of any shape, form, color, or design are within the scope of this disclosure, including wings that resemble plants, insect wings, bird wings, fairy wings, and so on. Mounting location 232 may be configured to couple wing component 230 to torso component 210. In other embodiments, wing component 230 may be configured to be coupled to another component, such as head component 220, for example. Because torso component 210 may serve as the foundation component of a customizable modular figurine and accessory system, throughout this disclosure, reference to coupling a component to the torso component includes coupling the component to an intermediary component, which, in turn, may be coupled to the torso component.

A skirt component 240 is also shown in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2. Skirt component 240 may include a skirt 241 and a mounting location 242. Any design of skirt is within the scope of this disclosure, including variations in color, texture, shape, design, and so on. In some instances, for example, skirt 241 may resemble a skirt formed of fabric; other examples may include skirts that resemble flower petals or plant leaves. Skirt component 240 may include a mounting location 242 configured to couple skirt 241 to torso component 210. In some instances, mounting location 242 may consist of an elastic band configured to slide over torso component 210 and position skirt 241 on torso 214 of torso component 210. Skirt 241 may be made from any number of materials, and may include various ornamental and functional designs, including colors, holes, pockets, etc.

Though not illustrated, it will be appreciated by one of skill in the art that any of a wide variety of clothing items may be configured for use with the presently described customizable modular figurine and accessory system 200. Including, for example, shirts, pants, socks, shoes, hats, blouses, vests, ties, bows, gloves, scarves, eyeglasses, sunglasses, goggles, monocles, manacles, chains, piercings, sandals, wrappings, robes, mittens, etc.

Three exemplary accessory components 250 are shown in FIG. 2. The three examples include a headpiece 251, jewels 252, and a ribbon or belt 253. Accessory components, such as these examples or any other adornment or accessory component, may be coupled to any component of the customizable modular figurine and accessory system 200. Other examples of accessories may include: beads, necklaces, ribbons, flowers, bows, stones, clips, and so on.

The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 also includes a stand 260, including a base 262 and a support riser 261. Like any of the components disclosed herein, it will be appreciated that stand 260 is optional; different embodiments may or may not include a stand 260. Likewise, any particular embodiment may omit any of the components shown in FIG. 2 and may include additional components not shown. In some embodiments, the user may determine which components to include in the system and which to omit.

Stand 260 may comprise a support riser 261 and a base 262. Support riser 261 may be configured to couple to a portion of the customizable modular figurine and accessory system 200, for example, support riser 261 may couple to torso component 210. Support riser 261 may be designed with sufficient height to display a customized modular figurine in a desired fashion. Support riser 261 may also be configured to be coupled to base 262, allowing the entire system to be free standing, for example, on a table surface. In some embodiments, base 262 may be further decorated; for example, base 262 may be covered with simulated grass or moss. In various embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 2, support riser 261 may be positioned so as to extend from a lower portion of torso component 210, pass through torso component 210, pass through head mount (111 in FIG. 1), and into head component 220.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a customized modular figurine 300, including various accessory components 320, 322, 340, 351, 352, and 353, connected to a stand 360, including a base 362 and a support riser 361. As illustrated, the customized modular figurine 300 may include a torso component 310, a head component 320, a wing component 330, a skirt component 340, and any number of embellishing accessory components, such as a head piece 351, jewels 352, and a ribbon 353. In certain embodiments, a user may further design and customize modular figurine 300 after it is assembled by, for example, arranging or styling hair 322 or shaping portions of torso component 310. For instance, the arms and/or legs of customized modular figurine 300 may be selectively bent and positioned.

In some embodiments, a customizable modular figurine and accessory system may include one or more torso components 310, one or more head components 320, one or more wig (hair) components 322, one or more embellishing accessory components, such as accessories 351, 352, 353, and/or skirt 340. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system may include various unique variations of each component. Accordingly, a user may select and assemble any combination of available components. The various possible permutations of numerous components allow a user to choose between various possible unique customized modular figurines. Support riser 361 may be instrumental in maintaining the various components coupled in a desired combination and provide stability, support, rigidity, and/or provide a means to display a customized modular figurine.

FIG. 4 illustrates a number of possible embellishing accessory components 450 for use with customizable modular figurine and accessory system. Examples of possible embellishing accessory components include jewels 452, beads 454, ribbons 453, flowers 456, and so on. Other potential embellishing accessory components may include necklaces, rings, bracelets, bows, clips, pearls, pendants, handbags, hats, hairpieces, wigs, head bands, socks, shoes, gloves, mittens, and so on. In some embodiments, a number of embellishing accessory components may be packaged together in a single pouch 459. In some embodiments, other decorative elements for use with a customized modular figurine and accessory system (such as moss or grass 458 which may be coupled to a stand) may be included within the pouch 459.

A pouch 459, including any number of accessories, any number of variations, and any number of unique versions of each embellishing accessory component, may be packaged together with a customizable modular figurine. Accordingly, a user may utilize the contents of pouch 459 to customize and assemble a customized modular figurine. In some embodiments, pouch 459 may include a plurality of unique head components, a plurality of unique arm components, a plurality of unique leg components, a plurality of unique wig components, one or more pluralities of unique embellishing accessory components, and/or other components.

As previously described, in some embodiments, a display component may be provided in connection with a customizable modular figurine and accessory system. This display component may be in place of, or in addition to, a stand component such as that shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Examples of display components may include a frame, a swing, a rope, a plastic jar, an enclosure, a windowed-enclosure, and/or other possible display systems. Pouch 459 may include straw or grass 458 for use in decorating such a display system.

FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a customized modular figurine 500 displayed within jar-type display component 570. A jar display component 570 may include a transparent jar 571 configured to hold and display customized modular figurine 500. Decorative elements, such as rocks 577 and/or grass 578, may also be disposed within or on jar 571. In some embodiments, such elements may be arranged to represent an environment or “habitat” for customized modular figurine 500. A lid 572 may be provided in connection with jar 571. In some embodiments, a tether 573 may be provided to suspend customized modular figurine 500 from a lid 572, such that customized modular figurine 500 hangs in a desired location within jar 571.

In other embodiments, customized modular figurine 500 may rest or stand on the bottom of jar 571, on grass 578, and/or on another decorative element within jar 571. Jar-type display component 570 may include embellishments, such as ribbons 575 or a carrying handle 574. Even in embodiments in which a stand (260 of FIG. 2) is not used, a support riser (261 of FIG. 2) may extend from a lower portion of the torso component, through the torso component and the head mount, and into the head component.

In other embodiments, alternative display apparatus may be provided in connection with a customizable modular figurine and accessory system. FIG. 6 is a perspective view of two customized modular figurines 600 and 600′ suspended within a display frame 680. Two identical customized modular figurines 600 and 600′ are shown on display within display frame 680. In alternative embodiments, various permutations of unique components may be used to assemble each customized modular figurine 600 and 600′, resulting in unique customized modular figurines. A display frame 680 may include grass 688 or other environmental embellishments within a frame 681. Further, the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6 includes a swing 682 suspended by tethers 683 for displaying customized modular figurines 600 and 600′.

In some embodiments, a customized modular figurine may be coupled to a display component by magnetic forces between the customized modular figurine and the display component. As explained above, the inner core or other portion of a customized modular figurine may have magnetic properties and/or include a magnetic connection member. Similarly, portions of a display component may be magnetically attracted to the magnetic portions of the customized modular figurine. For example, a customized modular figurine may be formed with a magnetic inner core within the torso component. Similarly, an element of a display component (for example, a stand, log, rock, or swing) may also be magnetic. In such embodiments, the customized modular figurine system may be selectively coupled to (and decoupled from) the display component.

FIG. 7 illustrates various perspective views of several potential embodiments of components of a customizable modular figurine and accessory system. FIG. 7 is arranged to show the modularity of the system. It will be appreciated that the embodiments illustrated are exemplary only; there are numerous variations of each of these components within the scope of this disclosure. Thus, the components shown in FIG. 7 should be understood as providing examples of possible variations of these components and should not be understood as limiting the disclosure to specific features of the embodiments shown. For instance, the illustrated embodiments do not include various possible colors, shapes, and sizes.

As shown in FIG. 7, a number of possible head components 720, 720′, 720″ may be used in connection with a customizable modular figurine and accessory system. For example, a head component may be provided with short hair (as in 720), wavy hair (as in 720′), or long straight hair (as in 720″). Likewise, many variations on wing components are within the scope of this disclosure including, for example, wing components with multiple wings (as in 730), rounded wings (as in 730′), or “butterfly-type” wings (as in 730″). Furthermore, a number of differing torso components, including torsos only partially wrapped in floss 710 and 710′ and a torso component completely wrapped in floss 710″ are within the scope of this disclosure. It is likewise within the scope of this disclosure to provide torso components that include multiple colors of floss wound onto different parts of one torso component. Finally, a number of skirt components, or other clothing, may be provided, including petal skirts 740, long skirts 740′, and layered skirts 740″.

The exemplary components of FIG. 7 are arranged in rows and columns to demonstrate the modularity of the system. A user may be presented with a plurality of choices for each component, assembling a customized modular figurine by picking one (or sometimes more) variation(s) of each component, then assembling the components into a single figurine. Referring again to the arrangement of FIG. 7, a user may choose one component from each row shown to obtain components of an entire figure. As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, a user may select one or more components selected from a plurality of unique head components, a plurality of unique arm components, a plurality of unique leg components, a plurality of unique wig components, a plurality of unique embellishing accessory components, a plurality of unique wing components, a plurality of unique skirt components, a plurality of unique clothing components, a plurality of unique display systems or display components, and/or a plurality of other components or accessories.

FIG. 8 provides a flow chart depicting a method of assembling various components of a customizable modular figurine and accessory system to create a customized modular figurine. A user may select a supporting riser, a torso component, a head component, a wing component, and a skirt component, then assemble these components into a customized modular figurine. Again, any one of these steps may be omitted if a user so desires. Furthermore, additional steps, such as adding and coupling accessories or positioning or placing the customized modular figurine within a display component, may be added to the method described. In some embodiments, the user will be provided with a large number of modular components, arranged to allow the user to visualize possible combinations (for example, with components arranged in rows as illustrated FIG. 7) of individual components. In some embodiments, a user may be presented with step-by-step instructions, each of which may be optional, to systematically select from various possible permutations of components, embellishing accessory components, and/or display options.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a customized modular figurine 900 including a cavity 980 in a rear portion of a torso component 910. In the illustrated embodiment, cavity 980 may be configured to receive a connection member, such as magnetic ball 981. Magnetic ball 981 may be configured to snap into cavity 980. The diameter of magnetic ball 981 may be slightly larger than the diameter of cavity 980. Accordingly, once magnetic ball 981 is snapped into cavity 980, magnetic ball 981 may be selectively retained within. In some embodiments, magnetic ball 981 may be configured to freely rotate within cavity 980. In other embodiments, magnetic ball 981 may be fixed within cavity 980. The size and/or shape of magnetic cavity 980 and/or magnetic ball 981 may be adapted for a particular application or purpose. In some embodiments, magnetic ball 981 may be replaced with a magnetic connection member of any shape or size.

FIG. 9 also illustrates a reverse side of a customized modular figurine 900. As illustrated, customized modular figurine may include a skirt component 940, a wing component 930, and a head component 920. In the illustrated embodiment, head component 920 includes an integrated wig component. In alternative embodiments, a wig component may be separate from head component 920.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a customized modular figurine 1000 magnetically coupled to the end of a wand 1085 via a magnetic connection member 1090. According to various embodiments, wand 1085 may comprise an elongate member configured to be coupled to a customized modular figurine. As illustrated, customized modular figurine 1000 may be coupled to a portion of wand 1085 via a magnetic connection member, such as magnetic ball 981 described in conjunction with FIG. 9. Customized modular figurine 1000 may be coupled to wand 1085 via magnetic attraction or any other method of coupling disclosed herein or known in the art.

In some embodiments, wand 1085 may be configured such that a user 1087 may grasp a first end (a proximal end) of wand 1085 while the second end (distal end) of wand 1085 selectively or permanently secures customized modular figurine 1000. Such embodiments may allow user 1087 to play with customized modular figurine 1000 in a “flying” type configuration or to suspend or display customized modular figurine 1000 in a flying type configuration. Customized modular figurine 1000 may be coupled directly to a portion of wand 1085, or coupled by an intermediate member, such as a string or line. Wand 1085 may be configured to selectively secure any variation of a customized modular figurine, including customized modular figurine 1000. As illustrated, customized modular figurine 1000 includes a torso component 1010, a skirt component 1040, a wing component 1030, and a head component 1020.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment in which a wand 1185 includes a connection member 1195 configured to secure a torso component 1110 of a customized modular figurine 1100. Again, customized modular figurine 1100 may include torso component 1110 customized with a user-selected skirt component 1140, a wing component 1130, and a head component 1120. A user 1187 may grasp a proximal end of wand 1185 in order to play with or secure customized modular figurine 1100 in a flying position or an upright position.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of a customized modular figurine 1200 magnetically coupled to the end of a positionable wand 1288. As illustrated, customized modular figurine 1200 may include a torso component 1210, a skirt component 1240, a wing component 1230, and a head component 1220. A magnetic connection member 1290 positioned on a distal end of wand 1288 may be configured to selectively secure torso component 1210 of customized modular figurine 1200. In some embodiments, an inner core, a coating, and/or a floss wrapping of customized modular figurine 1200 may be magnetic or include a ferromagnetic material. In other embodiments, customized modular figurine 1200 may include a cavity and an inserted magnetic ball (or other inserted magnetic member) in a rear portion of torso component 1210, such as the magnetic connection member described in conjunction with FIG. 9.

As illustrated, wand 1288 may include one or more bends. In some embodiments, wand 1288 may be selectively bent and positioned and configured to retain its shape. A proximal end of wand 1288 may be held by a user, or as illustrated in FIG. 12, a connection member such as suction cup 1289 may be used to suction customized modular figurine 1200 to a surface. Suction cup 1289 may be replaced with any of a wide variety of connection members. In some embodiments, wand 1288 may be bent and deformed in order to wrap around, hook, or grab onto objects in order to secure customized modular figurine 1200 in a desired position.

Several variations to the methods and processes described above are within the scope of this disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, a user may initially be provided with a kit containing preselected components that a user assembles. Similarly, the user may be provided with a core set of preselected components while additionally having the ability to personally select and add additional components.

The above description provides numerous specific details for a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, those of skill in the art will recognize that one or more of the specific details may be omitted, modified, and/or replaced by a similar process or system.

Claims

1. A customizable modular figurine and accessory system, comprising:

a torso component comprising a core material at least partially coated with an elastomeric coating, the torso component comprising a first arm, a second arm, a first leg having a first foot portion, and a second leg having a second foot portion;

a floss component wrapped around at least a portion of the torso component;

a plurality of unique head components configured to be interchangeably positioned on a top portion of the torso component, each unique head component including a wig component;

a head mount extending from the top portion of the torso component configured to interchangeably connect one of the plurality of head components to the top portion of the torso component, so as to form a modular figurine comprising a torso and a head;

a plurality of unique wing components configured to be interchangeably secured to the torso component;

a plurality of unique clothing components configured to be interchangeably positioned on the torso component;

a magnetic connection member configured to selectively couple the modular figurine to an end of a wand via a magnetic force; and

a plurality of embellishing accessory components configured to be interchangeably connected to the modular figurine to embellish the modular figurine.

2. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 1, further comprising a support riser configured to extend from a lower portion of the torso component, through the torso component and the head mount, and into one of the plurality of head components.

3. A customizable modular figurine and accessory system, comprising:

a torso component comprising a core material at least partially coated with an elastomeric coating;

a head component configured to be positioned on a top portion of the torso component;

a head mount extending from the top portion of the torso component configured to connect the head component to the top portion of the torso component, so as to form a modular figurine comprising a torso and a head;

a support riser configured to extend from a lower portion of the torso, through the torso component and the head mount, and into the head component; and

at least one embellishing accessory component configured to embellish the modular figurine.

4. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, wherein the at least one embellishing accessory comprises a floss wrap configured to be wrapped around at least a portion of the torso component.

5. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, wherein the torso component comprises a first arm, a second arm, a first leg, and a second leg.

6. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, further comprising:

a first arm configured to be connected to the torso component;

a second arm configured to be connected to the torso component;

a first leg configured to be connected to the torso component; and

a second leg configured to be connected to the torso component.

7. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 6, wherein each leg comprises a foot portion.

8. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 7, wherein the at least one embellishing accessory comprises a floss wrap configured to be wrapped around at least a portion of the torso component and at least a portion of each foot portion.

9. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, further comprising a plurality of unique head components, wherein each of the plurality of unique head components is configured to be interchangeably positioned on the top portion of the torso component via the head mount.

10. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 9, wherein each of the plurality of unique head components comprises a wig component.

11. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, wherein the at least one embellishing accessory comprises a plurality of unique wing components configured to be interchangeably coupled to the torso component.

12. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, wherein the embellishing accessory comprises a plurality of unique skirt components configured to be interchangeably coupled to the torso component.

13. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, further comprising a plurality of unique wig components configured to be coupled to a top portion of the head component.

14. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, wherein the head component comprises a wig component.

15. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, wherein the at least one embellishing accessory comprises a plurality of embellishing accessories configured to interchangeably embellish the figurine, the plurality of embellishing accessories selected from the group consisting of a plurality of unique bows, a plurality of unique ribbons, a plurality of unique clips, a plurality of unique jewels, a plurality of unique beads, a plurality of unique necklaces, a plurality of unique flowers, a plurality of unique hats, and a plurality of unique headpieces.

16. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, wherein the support riser is configured to extend from the lower portion of the torso component to a support base, the support base and riser adapted to support the modular figurine in an upright position.

17. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, further comprising an enclosure configured to at least partially enclose the modular figurine, the enclosure configured with at least one substantially transparent viewing window configured to display the modular figurine.

18. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, further comprising a display frame configured to frame the modular figurine for display.

19. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 3, further comprising a connection member configured to selectively couple the modular figurine to an end of a wand.

20. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 19, wherein the connection member comprises a magnetic connection member configured to magnetically couple the modular figurine to the end of the wand.

21. A customizable modular figurine and accessory system, comprising:

a torso component comprising a core material at least partially coated with an elastomeric coating, the torso component comprising a first arm, a second arm, a first leg, and a second leg;

a plurality of unique head components configured to be interchangeably positioned on a top portion of the torso component;

a head mount extending from the top portion of the torso component configured to interchangeably connect one of the plurality of head components to the top portion of the torso component, so as to form a modular figurine comprising a torso and a head; and

a plurality of embellishing accessory components configured to be interchangeably connected to the modular figurine to embellish the modular figurine.

22. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 21, further comprising a support riser configured to extend from a lower portion of the torso, through the torso component and the head mount, and into one of the plurality of head components.

23. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 21, further comprising a floss component wrapped around at least a portion of the torso component.

24. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 21, further comprising a connection member configured to selectively couple the modular figurine to an end of a wand.

25. The customizable modular figurine and accessory system of claim 24, wherein the connection member comprises a magnetic connection member configured to magnetically couple the modular figurine to the end of the wand.