ROLE-PLAY TOY INCORPORATING WIRELESS INTERACTIVITY

Abstract

A system for incorporating wireless functionality into role-play toys, dress-up toys, costumes, etc. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, a first apparatus may determine if a response has been triggered. If it is determined that a response has been triggered, the first apparatus may further determine if a wireless signal from a second apparatus has been received. If the first apparatus determines that a wireless signal has been received from the second apparatus, the first apparatus may activate a first response output. Otherwise, if the first apparatus further determines that no signal has been received, the first apparatus may activate a second response output.

Description

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/556,583 filed Nov. 7, 2011, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in this application in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of Invention

Embodiments of the present invention pertain to role-play toys, and in particular, to the incorporation of wireless interactivity into role-play toys, dress-up toys, costumes, etc.

2. Background

Toys are fun because they allow children to use their imagination. For example, children may imagine that they are princesses, pirates, astronauts, firemen, policemen, sports stars, etc. without any playthings. However, the sense of realism may be enhanced when actual implements are introduced. A child may pretend to be a knight and gallop around the room. In this regard a broom may become a noble steed, a stick a shining sword, a pot a glistening helmet and a beloved stuffed animal a formidable dragon to be slain. The introduction of these objects may help children to better envision that the imagined events are actually occurring and that they are actually part of story. In this regard, at least one segment of toys has evolved to support the beneficial practice of fostering children's ability to play through the use of their imagination.

Role-play and dress-up toys are designed so that children to use their imagination to create various adventures. Usually enjoyed by two to eight year olds, the toys allow children to dress up as the characters they want to portray, and thus, to act out various adventures. Role-play and dress-up toys usually include various apparel and accessories that children may wear. For example, a princess toy may include components such as, but not limited to, a dress, a cape, a crown, a scepter, various accessories such as costume jewelry, etc. A knight's costume might comprise a warn garment representing a suit of armor, a helmet, a cape, various accessories such as a sword, a shield, gloves, a coat of arms, etc. These toys allow children to actually become the character they are imagining, and so these toys continue to be popular amongst children and their parents, who strive to have their children use their imaginations in lieu of purely electronic entertainment. In this manner, any advent that allows the child to feel even more in the role they are attempting to portray may be considered a significant improvement in the area of such toys.

SUMMARY

Example embodiments of the present invention may be directed to a method, apparatus, computer program product and system for incorporating wireless functionality into role-play toys, dress-up toys, costumes, etc. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, a first apparatus may determine if a response has been triggered. If it is determined that a response has been triggered, the first apparatus may further determine if a wireless signal from a second apparatus has been received. If the first apparatus determines that a wireless signal has been received from the second apparatus, the first apparatus may activate a first response output. Otherwise, if the first apparatus further determines that no signal has been received, the first apparatus may activate a second response output.

In at least one example implementation, at least one of the first apparatus and/or the second apparatus may be part of a role-play toy, a dress-up toy or a costume. For example, the first apparatus may be part of a role-play toy that is not worn by a user during role-play and the second apparatus may be part of the role-play toy that is worn by a user during role-play. In such a configuration the first apparatus may be a role-play toy resembling a stuffed animal, a vanity, a storage chest, etc., while the second apparatus may be a role-play toy resembling a broach, a necklace, an amulet, a crown, a wand, a key, a belt buckle, etc. In an alternative configuration, the first and second apparatuses may each be part of role-play toys that are worn by users during role-play. For example, the first apparatus and the second apparatus may be role-play toys resembling broaches, necklaces, amulets, crowns, wands, keys, belt buckles, etc.

In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, the wireless signal may be an infrared (IR) wireless signal. In some instances the first apparatus may be able to identify the second apparatus based on, for example, information contained in the received wireless signal. When the second apparatus is able to be identified by the first apparatus, the first response output may specifically correspond to the identification of the second apparatus. Regardless of whether the second apparatus is able to be identified, the first and second response outputs may comprise at least one of a visual, audio or motion output.

The above summarized configurations or operations of various embodiments of the present invention have been provided merely for the sake of explanation, and therefore, are not intended to be limiting. Moreover, inventive elements associated herein with a particular example embodiment of the present invention can be used interchangeably with other example embodiments depending, for example, on the manner in which an embodiment is implemented.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The disclosure will be further understood from the following description of various exemplary embodiments, taken in conjunction with appended drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 discloses example apparatuses, systems, configurations, etc. that may be utilized when implementing the various embodiments of the present invention

FIG. 2 discloses a first example wireless interaction with an object in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 discloses a second example wireless interaction between two role-players in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 discloses a third example wireless interaction between two role-players in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 discloses a fourth example wireless interaction comprising signal source differentiation in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 discloses a fifth example wireless interaction comprising signal reception and source differentiation in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 discloses a flowchart for an second example communication control process in accordance with at least one example embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

While the present invention has been described herein in terms of a multitude of example embodiments, various changes or alterations can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, as set forth in the appended claims.

I. Example System with which Embodiments of the Present Invention may be Implemented

An example of a system that is usable for implementing various embodiments of the present invention is disclosed in FIG. 1. The system comprises two example apparatuses that may be included in, or omitted from, various embodiments depending, for example, on the needs of particular applications, and therefore, is not intended to limit present invention in any manner.

FIG. 1 discloses apparatuses 100 and 102 interacting via wireless communication. Example apparatus 100 may, in practice, be any type of computing apparatus comprising at least elements 104-110. Elements 104-110 correspond to basic categories of components/subsystems that may support operation in computing device 100. For example, processor 104 may include one or more devices configured to execute code. In at least one scenario, the execution of code (e.g., groups of computer-executable instructions stored in memory 106) by processor 104 may cause apparatus 100 to perform processes including, for example, method steps that may result in data, events or other output activities. Processor 104 may be a single microprocessor integrated circuit, or may a composite device such as an ASIC, gate array, multi-chip module (MCM), etc.

Processor 104 may be electronically coupled to other functional components in apparatus 100 via a wired or wireless bus. For example, processor 104 may access memory 106 in order to obtain stored information (e.g., program code, data, etc.) for use during processing. Memory 104 may generally include removable or permanently imbedded memories (e.g., non-transitory computer readable storage media) that operate in a static or dynamic mode. Further, memory 104 may include read-only memories (ROM), random access memories (RAM), and rewritable memories such as Flash, EPROM, etc. Examples of removable storage media based on magnetic, electronic and/or optical technologies are shown at 108, and may function to input or output data from apparatus 100. The code stored in memory 106 may include any interpreted or compiled computer language including computer-executable instructions. Code and/or data may be used to create software modules such as operating systems, communication utilities, user interfaces, program modules having specialized functions, etc.

One or more interfaces may also be coupled to the aforementioned subsystems in apparatus 100. These interfaces may allow for intra-apparatus communication (e.g., a software or protocol interface), inter-apparatus communication (e.g., a wired or wireless communication interface) and even apparatus-to-user communication (e.g., a user interface). These interfaces allow subsystems within apparatus 100, other apparatuses and users to interact with apparatus 100. Some interfaces may communicate machine-readable data, such as electronic, magnetic or optical signals embodied on a computer readable medium, or may translate the actions of users into activity that may be understood by apparatus 100 (e.g., typing on a keyboard, speaking into a sound sensor, touching an icon on a touch screen device, etc.). Some interfaces may further allow processor 104 and/or memory 106 to interact with other subsystems. Other subsystems may comprise one or more components supporting specialized functionality in apparatus 100.

As previously set forth, the interfaces in apparatus 100 may include support the transmission and reception of machine-readable information. For example, wireless interfaces 110 may allow for the wireless transmission and reception of information over long distances (e.g., via cellular voice and data networks), over shorter distances (e.g., via Bluetooth, WLAN UWB networks) or between apparatuses that are in close-proximity (e.g., including electronic, magnetic, electromagnetic and optical information scanners interpret machine-readable data). Examples of close-proximity wireless communication may include IR, Radio Frequency (RF) implemented as Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) or Near Field Communication (NFC), etc. Apparatus 100 may also comprise wired interfaces 112 such as Ethernet. The interfaces disclosed above have been presented only for the sake of explanation, and thus, are not intended to limit the various embodiments of the present invention to utilization of a particular interface.

In addition to the communication of machine-readable information, apparatus 100 may also comprise resources for communicating information that is discernible by a person (e.g., apparatus user). User interfaces 114 may provide resources for outputting information to users or receiving information from users. For example, resources for outputting information to users may comprise one or more speakers, electromechanical noise making devices (e.g., horns, bells, etc.), display screens, lighted indicators (e.g., bulb or LED indicators), electromechanical motion or vibration devices, etc. Example resources that may allow for users to input information may comprise buttons, motion sensors, position sensors, keyboards, sound sensors (e.g., for detecting noises or receiving voice commands), touch sensors (e.g., heat or contact sensors), etc. While a variety of user interfaces are disclosed above, the disclosed user interfaces are offered only as examples, and are not meant to limit the various embodiments of the present invention.

Apparatus 102 is a second example of an apparatus that may be employed alone, or in conjunction with apparatus 100, in implementing at least one embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 102 may be similar to apparatus 100 in that it incorporates at least some of the previously described subsystems, but may be a simpler device having only limited abilities. For example, apparatus 102 may comprise at least wireless interface 116, user interfaces 120, and some interface circuitry or logic 118 for executing functionality. As will be described with respect to the example implementations set forth in FIG. 2-5, it may be possible for apparatus 102 to operate as a wireless transmitter or receiver apparatus with limited local functionality. For example, apparatus 102 may operate as a simple wireless remote control that may transmit signals for triggering activity in a remotely-situated apparatus, such as apparatus 100. In this manner a user may interact with a user interface on apparatus 102 (e.g., a button) to transmit a wireless signal. Upon receipt of the wireless signal transmitted by apparatus 102, the receiving apparatus may trigger a local response, such as by activating visual, audible or motion outputs.

While not expressly disclosed in FIG. 1, apparatuses 100 and 102 may comprise other elements that may be necessary or optional for the operation of each device. For example, both apparatuses may include a power source such as disposable or rechargeable batteries that may be imbedded or removable, a wall adapter that converts AC to DC power, solar power, etc. Moreover, apparatuses 100 and 102 may comprise any hardware and/or software that may be necessary for implementing any of the features or behaviors that have been identified above.

II. Example Implementation—Manually Initiated Interaction

In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, a system of wireless interaction may be implemented that may help to represent an situation for role-play or dress-up. An example implementation is disclosed in FIG. 2. In FIG. 2, the apparel worn user 200 may comprise apparatus 102A. Apparatus 102A may comprise at least the functionality of apparatus 102, but may be embodied in a specific format, such as a necklace (as shown), broach, bracelet, belt buckle, etc. Also disclosed in FIG. 2 is object 202, which may comprise apparatus 100A. Apparatus 100A may comprise at least the functionality of apparatus 100, but may be embodied in a specific format, such as embedded in object 202 (e.g., a stuffed animal, action figure, etc.). While apparatus 100A has been disclosed as embodied within object 202, it may also be part of a role play toy that may be worn by another user that is participating in the role play. Apparatus 102A may comprise at least the ability to transmit wireless information, and may further comprise a user interface element in button 204. Button 204 may be formed as a element corresponding to the cosmetic appeal of apparatus 102A (e.g., as a jewel in a necklace), but may also have the ability to initiate functionality in apparatus 102A when pressed by a user.

While the particular form or location of apparatuses 102A and 100A may vary depending on the role play, in FIG. 2 a backstory may provide that a dragon (e.g., object 202) may come to the user upon activating a “magic amulet” (e.g., apparatus 102A). In this pursuit, user 200 may touch button 206 on apparatus 102A. A wireless signal may then be transmitted (e.g., an IR or RF signal) from apparatus 102A. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, other output activity 208 may also be possible from “magic amulet” 102A. For example, button 204 may glow (e.g., via an LED or bulb output) and apparatus 102A may vibrate (e.g., via an electromechanical output device) in order to create the illusion of activity.

Upon receiving the signal emitted from apparatus 102A, apparatus 100A may activate output in object 202 as shown at 208. For example, apparatus 100 may cause object 202 to become illuminated (e.g., the eyes of the dragon may “flicker”), to make noise (e.g., a speaker in the dragon may simulate growing or human speech), to move (e.g., electromechanical devices in the dragon may make the dragon walk, flaps its wings, open its mouth, possibly accompanied by the growl or speech audible activity), etc. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, it may also be possible for apparatus 100A to transmit wireless signals that are receivable by apparatus 102A (e.g., in instances where apparatus 102A has the ability to receive wireless signals). In such instances apparatus 102A may respond with further simulation activity such as changing the illumination color, audible outputs such as music or speech, vibration, etc. It may also be possible for apparatus 100A to discern between different signal sources and to act differently depending on the source, which will be discussed further with respect to FIG. 5.

III. Example Implementation—Proximity-Based Interaction

In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, it may also be possible for role-play or dress-up toys to interact based on proximity sensing conducted via wireless signaling. An example implementation of such as system is disclosed in FIG. 3. In this example two similar apparatuses 100B (e.g., worn by each of users 300 and 302) may interact. Apparatuses 100B may incorporate at least the functionality described with respect to apparatus 100 in FIG. 1, but may be embodied in a particular format (e.g., as “crowns” in FIG. 3). Each apparatus 100B may be configured to periodically transmit wireless signals (e.g., IR signals). In instances when IR is employed, when apparatuses 100B come within range of each other (e.g., within IR transmission range), signals transmitted from the opposing apparatus 100B may be detected, and at least one output 304 may be activated in one or both of apparatuses 100B.

While the particular form or location of apparatuses 100B may vary depending on the particular role-play, a backstory may exist as a part of a king, queen, prince or princess role-play toy that when the crowns are united that a certain magical result occurs (e.g., singing is heard, the jewels in the crowns glow, etc.) Users 300 and 302 may each wear apparatus 100B as part of their role-play toy, and when they come within IR range of each other at least one output may be activated in one or both of the apparatuses. For example, a “jewel” in each crown may glow (e.g., via activation of an LED or lamp output), the crown may sing (e.g., via activation of an audio output that plays a sound file), the crown may have moving parts or vibrate (e.g., via activation of an electromechanical output device), etc. It may also be possible for apparatuses 100B to discern between different signal sources and to act differently depending on the source, which will be discussed further with respect to FIG. 5. In this manner an illusion may be created that elements of the role-play or dress-up toy magically came to life as set forth in the backstory.

IV. Example Implementation—Directional Interaction

Another example implementation, in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, is disclosed in FIG. 4. In the example apparatus 102C may use directional transmission in order to create the illusion of a directional action (e.g., casting a spell) when it is interacting with apparatus 100C. Apparatus 102C may comprise at least the functionality that was described with respect to apparatus 102, while apparatus 100 may comprise at least the functionality that was described with respect to apparatus 100. In this example apparatus 102C may utilize a more directional form of wireless communication (e.g., IR) in order to confine the signal transmission to a narrower emission pattern. When user 400 points the signal emitter of apparatus 102C towards apparatus 100C, apparatus 100C may then receive the signal and may proceed to activate at least one output.

While the particular form or location of apparatuses 102C and 100C may vary depending on the particular role-play, example backstories for role-play or dress-up toys that operate as disclosed in FIG. 4 may comprise a wizard 400 using a magic wand (e.g., apparatus 102C) to cast a spell at a second role-player 402 wearing an enchanted belt (e.g., comprising apparatus 100C), a superhero or army man 400 directing his/her gun towards a “bad guy” 402, etc. In response to receiving the wireless signal from apparatus 102C, apparatus 100C may activate at least one output such an audible output (e.g., the sound of the magic spell being cast, the sound of a gunshot or laser blast, an audible speech telling the role player that they are enchanted or injured, etc.), a visual output such as a blinking light (e.g., LED or lamp), a motion output such as vibration (e.g., via an electromechanical device), etc. Again, it may be possible for apparatus 100 to identify the source of the received signal and vary its operation accordingly, which will be discussed further with respect to FIG. 5.

V. Example Implementation—Discerning Signal Source

The example disclosed initially in FIG. 1 has been modified in FIG. 5 to disclose another example implementation in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention. In the example of FIG. 5 two users 500 and 502 may each be wearing role-play toys comprising different apparatuses 102D (e.g., apparatuses comprising at least the functionality of apparatus 102). An object 504 may comprise apparatus 100D (e.g., an apparatus comprising at least the functionality of apparatus 100). Each of the apparatuses 102 may comprises resources for transmitting wireless signals, the wireless signals comprising information that may be used to identify the source of the signal. For example, in instances where IR is employed the IR signal may be used to transmit an identifier corresponding to the source of the signal. Apparatus 100D may be configured to receive these signals, and may be further configured to identify the source of each signal and to activate difference outputs in object 504 in response to each signal. It is important to note that while apparatus 100D is disclosed within object 504, it may also be worn as part of a role play toy in accordance with any of the previous examples of worn items.

While the particular form or location of apparatuses 102D and 100D may vary depending on the particular role-play, an example backstory for the disclosed role play may describe that one amulet (e.g., apparatus 102D worn by user 500) may control the dragon 504 (e.g., that is controlled by apparatus 100D) while another amulet (e.g., apparatus 102D worn by user 502) may enrage the dragon. In accordance with the backstory, when apparatus 100D receives wireless signals where apparatus 102D worn by user 500 is identified as the source, apparatus 100D may activate a set of outputs 506 in object 504. These output may include visual, audible and/or motion outputs that make the dragon appear happy. On the other hand, when apparatus 100D receives wireless signal that are identified to be coming from apparatus 102D worn by user 502, a second set of outputs 508 may be activated in object 504. Now the dragon may appear enraged through the use of different visual audible and/or motion outputs.

VI. Example Implementation—Discerning Signal Reception and/or Source

In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, it may be possible to control output behavior based on signal reception and/or signal source. An example is disclosed FIG. 6 including two users 600 and 602 that may desire to interact with object 604. Users 600 and 602 may each be wearing an apparatus 102E (e.g., apparatuses comprising at least the functionality described with respect to apparatus 102) and object 604 (e.g., dragon plush toy) may comprise apparatus 100E (e.g., an apparatus having at least the functionality described with respect to apparatus 100).

Apparatus 100E may be configured to cause object 604 to react with at least two response outputs. For example, a response output may be triggered at 606. The triggering at 606 may comprise any form of interaction with object 604. For example, in the instance object 604 is a plush dragon toy, users 600 or 603 may move the toy, squeeze (e.g., hug) the toy, talk to the toy, come into proximity and/or hold an object close to the toy, or any other action that may be recognized by a sensor in object 604 (e.g., a sensor for detecting motion, sound, proximity, etc.). Moreover, apparatus 100E may be able to sense when apparatuses 102E are in close proximity through the reception of signals emitted by apparatuses 102E. In this way one output response may occur when trigger 606 is detected but no wireless signals have been received, as shown at 608, while a different output response may occur when trigger 606 is detected in conjunction with wireless signals being received from apparatuses 102E as shown at 610 and 612. It may also be possible for apparatus 100E to discern signals received from apparatus 102E being worn by user 600 as opposed to apparatus 102E being worn by user 602, which may result in output set #2 (as shown at 610) being different from output set #3 (as shown at 612).

While the particular form or location of apparatuses 102E and 100E may vary depending on the particular role-play, an example backstory for the disclosed role play may describe that certain dragons will only talk to people when wearing certain magic amulets, and further, that certain dragons may react differently depending on the person's particular magic amulet. In this regard, a user without either of the magic amulets (e.g., apparatuses 102E) may address the dragon (e.g., object 604) by approaching the dragon, picking up the dragon, talking to the dragon, etc. In response the dragon may simply growl or roar (e.g., output set #1 as set forth at 608), possibly in combination with motions or lights that are activated in the dragon to simulate wildness. On the contrary, when user 600 wearing a certain magic amulet addresses the dragon, the dragon may actually speak words to user 600 (e.g., output set #2 as set forth at 610), possibly in combination with different motions or lights being activated in the dragon to simulate happiness. In a third example mode of operation, user 602 wearing a different magic amulet may also address the dragon, but in this instance the dragon may speak differently to user 602 (e.g., output set #3 as set forth at 612), possibly in combination with motions or lights being activated in the dragon to simulate another emotion such as anger. As a result, the dragon plush toy 604 may simulate not recognizing users without magic amulets, recognizing user 600 as a friend, owner, etc., and recognizing user 602 as a possible stranger, enemy seeking a challenge, etc.

A flowchart of an example process in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention is disclosed in FIG. 7. The process may initiate in step 700 and may then proceed to step 702 wherein a determination may be made as to whether a response has been triggered in a first apparatus. For example, a response may be triggered in the first apparatus if a sensor in the apparatus detects an input such as motion, object or user proximity, sound, light, etc. If in step 702 it is determined that no response has been triggered, then in step 704 the process may be complete and may then reinitiate in step 700 in preparation for, for example, the next occurrence of a response being triggered in the first apparatus. On the other hand, if in step 702 it is determined that a response has been triggered in the first apparatus, then the process may proceed to step 706 wherein a further determination may be made as to whether a wireless signal has been received in the first apparatus (e.g., from a second apparatus). If in step 706 it is determined that no signal has been received in the first apparatus from the second apparatus, then the process may proceed to step 708 wherein a second response output may be activated. The second response output may, for example, comprise visual, audible or motions outputs. The process may then again terminate in step 704 and reinitiate in step 700 as previously described.

If in step 706 the apparatus determines that a wireless signal has been received, the process may then proceed to optional step 710. In accordance with at least one embodiment of the present invention, it may be possible for the first apparatus to determine the identity of the source of the received signal (e.g., the second apparatus), and to then customize an output based on the identification. This optional process may start in step 710 wherein a determination may be made as to whether the second apparatus can be identified (e.g., based on information in the received signal). If in step 710 it is determined that the second apparatus cannot be identified, then the process may return to step 708 wherein the second response output may be activated (e.g., in at least one example implementation, if the second apparatus cannot be identified then the first apparatus may act as if no signal was received). If the second apparatus is identified in step 710, the process may move to optional step 712 wherein the first output may be configured to specifically correspond to the identification of the second apparatus. For example, certain visual, audible or motion outputs may be selected in order to correspond to the second apparatus. The process may then proceed to step 714 wherein the first output may be activated. The process may then again be complete in step 714 and may reinitiate in step 700 as described above. In the instance where steps 710 and 712 are omitted from FIG. 7, the determination that a signal has been received in step 706 may simply activate a predetermined first output in the apparatus.

Further to the above, the various example embodiments of the present invention are not strictly limited to the above implementations, and thus, other configurations are possible.

For example, an embodiment of the present invention may include a method comprising determining if a response has been triggered at a first apparatus, if it is determined that a response has been triggered, further determining if a wireless signal from a second apparatus has been received at the first apparatus, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, causing the first apparatus to activate a first response output, and if it is further determined that a wireless signal has not been received, causing the first apparatus to activate a second response output.

The above example method may be further described wherein at least one of the first apparatus or the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy, a dress-up toy or a costume.

The above example method may be further described wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus being part of the role-play toy that is not worn by a user during role-play and the second apparatus being part of the role play toy that is worn by a user during role-play. In this configuration the above example method may be even further described wherein the first apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a stuffed animal, a vanity or a storage chest, and the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a broach, a necklace, an amulet, a crown, a wand, a key or a belt buckle.

The above example method may be further described wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus and the second apparatus being parts of the role-play toy that are worn by users during role-play. In this configuration the above example method may be even further described wherein the first apparatus and second apparatus are parts of role-play toys resembling broaches, necklaces, amulets, crowns, wands, keys or belt buckles.

The above example method may be further described wherein the wireless signal is an infrared wireless signal.

The above example method may be further described as further comprising, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, identifying the second apparatus and activating a first response output that specifically corresponds to the identification of the second apparatus.

The above example method may be further described wherein the first response output and the second response output comprise at least one of visual, audible or motion output.

Another example implementation in accordance with at least one embodiment the present invention may include a computer program product comprising computer executable program code recorded on a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, the computer executable program code comprising code configured to cause a first apparatus to determine if a response has been triggered, code configured to cause the first apparatus to, if it is determined that a response has been triggered, further determine if a wireless signal from a second apparatus has been received, code configured to cause the first apparatus to, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, activate a first response output, and code configured to cause the first apparatus to, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has not been received, activate a second response output.

The above example computer program product may be further described wherein at least one of the first apparatus or the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy, a dress-up toy or a costume.

The above example computer program product may be further described wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus being part of the role-play toy that is not worn by a user during role-play and the second apparatus being part of the role play toy that is worn by a user during role-play. In this configuration the above example computer program product may be even further described wherein the first apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a stuffed animal, a vanity or a storage chest, and the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a broach, a necklace, an amulet, a crown, a wand, a key or a belt buckle.

The above example computer program product may be further described wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus and the second apparatus being parts of the role-play toy that are worn by users during role-play. In this configuration the above example computer program product may be even further described wherein the first apparatus and second apparatus are parts of role-play toys resembling broaches, necklaces, amulets, crowns, wands, keys or belt buckles.

The above example computer program product may be further described wherein the wireless signal is an infrared wireless signal.

The above example computer program product may be further described as further comprising code configured to cause the first apparatus to, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, identify the second apparatus and activate a first response output that specifically corresponds to the identification of the second apparatus.

The above example computer program product may be further described wherein the first response output and the second response output comprise at least one of visual, audible or motion output.

Another example implementation in accordance with at least one embodiment the present invention may include a first apparatus comprising at least one processor and at least one memory including executable instructions, the at least one memory and the executable instructions being configured to, in cooperation with the at least one processor, cause the first apparatus to perform at least the following: determine if a response has been triggered, if it is determined that a response has been triggered, further determine if a wireless signal from a second apparatus has been received, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, activate a first response output, and if it is further determined that a wireless signal has not been received, activate a second response output.

The above example first apparatus may be further described wherein at least one of the first apparatus or the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy, a dress-up toy or a costume.

The above example first apparatus may be further described wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus being part of the role-play toy that is not worn by a user during role-play and the second apparatus being part of the role play toy that is worn by a user during role-play. In this configuration the above example first apparatus may be even further described wherein the first apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a stuffed animal, a vanity or a storage chest, and the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a broach, a necklace, an amulet, a crown, a wand, a key or a belt buckle.

The above example first apparatus may be further described wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus and the second apparatus being parts of the role-play toy that are worn by users during role-play. In this configuration the above first apparatus may be even further described wherein the first apparatus and second apparatus are parts of role-play toys resembling broaches, necklaces, amulets, crowns, wands, keys or belt buckles.

The above example first apparatus may be further described wherein the wireless signal is an infrared wireless signal.

The above example first apparatus may be further described as the at least one memory and the executable instructions being further configured to, in cooperation with the at least one processor, cause the first apparatus to, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, identify the second apparatus and activate a first response output that specifically corresponds to the identification of the second apparatus.

The above example first apparatus may be further described wherein the first response output and the second response output comprise at least one of visual, audible or motion output.

Another example implementation in accordance with at least one embodiment the present invention may include a system comprising a first apparatus and a second apparatus, the first apparatus being configured to determine if a response has been triggered, and if it is determined that a response has been triggered, further determine if a wireless signal from the second apparatus has been received, and the first apparatus being further configured to, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, activate a first response output, and if it is further determined that a wireless signal has not been received, activate a second response output.

Another example implementation in accordance with at least one embodiment the present invention may include a first apparatus comprising means for determining if a response has been triggered, means for, if it is determined that a response has been triggered, further determining if a wireless signal from a second apparatus has been received, means for, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, activating a first response output, and means for, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has not been received, activating a second response output.

Another example implementation in accordance with at least one embodiment the present invention may include electronic signals that cause a first apparatus to determine if a response has been triggered, if it is determined that a response has been triggered, further determine if a wireless signal from a second apparatus has been received, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, activate a first response output, and if it is further determined that a wireless signal has not been received, activate a second response output.

Accordingly, it will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art that various changes in forma and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method, comprising:

determining if a response has been triggered at a first apparatus;

if it is determined that a response has been triggered, further determining if a wireless signal from a second apparatus has been received at the first apparatus;

if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, causing the first apparatus to activate a first response output; and

if it is further determined that a wireless signal has not been received, causing the first apparatus to activate a second response output.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first apparatus or the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy, a dress-up toy or a costume.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus being part of the role-play toy that is not worn by a user during role-play and the second apparatus being part of the role play toy that is worn by a user during role-play.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the first apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a stuffed animal, a vanity or a storage chest, and the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a broach, a necklace, an amulet, a crown, a wand, a key or a belt buckle.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus and the second apparatus being parts of the role-play toy that are worn by users during role-play.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the first apparatus and second apparatus are parts of role-play toys resembling broaches, necklaces, amulets, crowns, wands, keys or belt buckles.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the wireless signal is an infrared wireless signal.

8. The method of claim 1, further comprising, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, identifying the second apparatus and activating a first response output that specifically corresponds to the identification of the second apparatus.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein the first response output and the second response output comprise at least one of visual, audible or motion output.

10. A computer program product comprising computer executable program code recorded on a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, the computer executable program code comprising:

code configured to cause a first apparatus to determine if a response has been triggered;

code configured to cause the first apparatus to, if it is determined that a response has been triggered, further determine if a wireless signal from a second apparatus has been received;

code configured to cause the first apparatus to, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, activate a first response output; and

code configured to cause the first apparatus to, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has not been received, activate a second response output.

11. The computer program product of claim 10, wherein at least one of the first apparatus or the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy, a dress-up toy or a costume.

12. The computer program product of claim 10, wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus being part of the role-play toy that is not worn by a user during role-play and the second apparatus being part of the role play toy that is worn by a user during role-play.

13. The computer program product of claim 12, wherein the first apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a stuffed animal, a vanity or a storage chest, and the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a broach, a necklace, an amulet, a crown, a wand, a key or a belt buckle.

14. The computer program product of claim 10, wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus and the second apparatus being parts of the role-play toy that are worn by users during role-play.

15. The computer program product of claim 14, wherein the first apparatus and second apparatus are parts of role-play toys resembling broaches, necklaces, amulets, crowns, wands, keys or belt buckles.

16. The computer program product of claim 10, wherein the wireless signal is an infrared wireless signal.

17. The computer program product of claim 10, further comprising code configured to cause the first apparatus to, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, identify the second apparatus and activate a first response output that specifically corresponds to the identification of the second apparatus.

18. The computer program product of claim 10, wherein the first response output and the second response output comprise at least one of visual, audible or motion output.

19. A first apparatus, comprising:

at least one processor; and

at least one memory including executable instructions, the at least one memory and the executable instructions being configured to, in cooperation with the at least one processor, cause the first apparatus to perform at least the following: determine if a response has been triggered; if it is determined that a response has been triggered, further determine if a wireless signal from a second apparatus has been received; if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, activate a first response output; and if it is further determined that a wireless signal has not been received, activate a second response output.

20. The first apparatus of claim 19, wherein at least one of the first apparatus or the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy, a dress-up toy or a costume.

21. The first apparatus of claim 19, wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus being part of the role-play toy that is not worn by a user during role-play and the second apparatus being part of the role play toy that is worn by a user during role-play.

22. The first apparatus of claim 21, wherein the first apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a stuffed animal, a vanity or a storage chest, and the second apparatus is part of a role-play toy resembling a broach, a necklace, an amulet, a crown, a wand, a key or a belt buckle.

23. The first apparatus of claim 19, wherein the first apparatus and the second apparatus are parts of a role-play toy, the first apparatus and the second apparatus being parts of the role-play toy that are worn by users during role-play.

24. The first apparatus of claim 23, wherein the first apparatus and second apparatus are parts of role-play toys resembling broaches, necklaces, amulets, crowns, wands, keys or belt buckles.

25. The first apparatus of claim 19, wherein the wireless signal is an infrared wireless signal.

26. The first apparatus of claim 19, further comprising, the at least one memory and the executable instructions being configured to, in cooperation with the at least one processor, cause the first apparatus to, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, identify the second apparatus and activate a first response output that specifically corresponds to the identification of the second apparatus.

27. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the first response output and the second response output comprise at least one of visual, audible or motion output.

28. A system, comprising:

a first apparatus; and

a second apparatus;

the first apparatus being configured to determine if a response has been triggered, and if it is determined that a response has been triggered, further determine if a wireless signal from the second apparatus has been received; and

the first apparatus being further configured to, if it is further determined that a wireless signal has been received, activate a first response output, and if it is further determined that a wireless signal has not been received, activate a second response output.