INTERACTIVE THERAPY FIGURE INTEGRATED WITH AN INTERACTION MODULE

Abstract

An interactive figure comprises an interaction module to interact with users and remotely interact with other communications devices and persons remote from the interactive figure. A module is provided having a housing for circuitry, processors, transducers, and communications devices. The module communicates with an exterior surface of the body. An outer perimeter adjacent one axial end of the housing is maintained in a mounting ring projecting through a surface of the toy. A locking ring secures the mounting ring in engagement with the surface. The module has a housing disposed inside of a body. The module can be updated or repurposed without having to take apart the interactive figure.

Description

FIELD

The present subject matter relates to integration of interaction modules with interactive figures, the module and the figure enabling and providing therapy and other functions wherein updating and repurposing of the interactive figure is facilitated.

BACKGROUND

“Comfort toys” are used to provide psychological comfort in a wide variety of contexts. In the present description, “comfort toys” will be used synonymously with “interactive objects.” Since the earliest forms of comfort objects appeared, such as the classic “security blanket,” significant advances have been made in operational capabilities of toys and other objects. These capabilities include advances in simulated intelligence and in both voice and data communications. In order to provide such capabilities, components must be placed inside the toy including such items as transmitters, receivers, motors, microphones, speakers, and transducers. In a rigid apparatus, modules may be supported to a selected wall of a housing. In plush toys, construction generally comprises sewing walls of soft, flexible fabric together, closing seams to a preselected degree, filling an interior with stuffing, and completing closure of the toy. In many cases, apparatus and interconnecting wiring are placed inside the toy and then enclosed. There is no way to modify or replace the apparatus without taking the toy apart. The ability to install updated apparatus is therefore limited.

Since electronic circuitry is included in the body of the toy, limits on moisture level and temperature that can be applied to the toy must be imposed. Such limits impede capabilities of cleaning and sterilizing the toys.

Where a comfort toy is used for therapy, it is important to maintain continuity of the object with which a child or other patient interacts. A toy containing obsolete circuitry may be replaced with a new toy of the same type. However, a child or a patient will recognize that a different toy has been provided and may reject the new toy. A comfort toy may also be employed for education for users not requiring therapy.

The need to maintain updated interactive figures is all the more important since the gradual entry into treatment protocols of computerized therapy. Computerized therapy began in the mid-1960s. Joseph Weizenbaum, a computer scientist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, developed a computer program to simulate a Rogerian psychotherapist. The program, ELIZA, asked open-ended questions to encourage the user to discuss his or her emotions. Live therapy is traditionally conducted through face-to-face sessions between a patient and a therapist. Now, psychotherapy may take place over the Internet via emails or videoconferencing. This is commonly known as online therapy or e-Therapy. Prior art self-help treatments were initially available through books, CDs, DVDs, and the like with limited interaction capability.

The use of interactive figures is also important to provide expanded treatment and computerized therapy for conditions that are either increasing in frequency or which have increasing number of patients since a long-unrecognized condition is now more easily diagnosed. Conditions include autism, dementia, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Alzheimer' s disease, and other neurological conditions.

There is an acute need for autism therapy in particular. One in 110 children are diagnosed with autism, and qualified therapists are in short supply. In one form of therapy, a child may be in therapy for 40 hours in a week, seeing a number of specialists. Forms of therapy include music therapy to teach a child how to take turns; encouragement of artistic expression; use of role-playing and drama therapy to teach social skills; and practice looking and pointing at a single object, and then discussing it, to work on communication and shared attention. Each method of therapy requires specialized training. Computerized therapy is efficient and serves to close the gap created by the undersupply of qualified therapists.

New programs may be introduced that require new transducers to interact with a user or new routines to be stored in a program memory. As therapy programs become more sophisticated and as functions become more sophisticated, the need to replace processors will arise. The current state of the art does not facilitate renewal of an existing interactive therapy figure.

The requirement to provide flexibility in structure and interconnectability arises in many contexts. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 8,442,945 discloses techniques incorporating short-range radio frequency identification (RFID) in the context of an interactive figure, including low speed near field communication (NFC) technologies. A data socket is provided in a limb of the interactive figure. However, the terminal connected to the data socket remains at a fixed position within the interactive figure. Updates or modifications cannot be made without disassembling the interactive figure.

U.S. Pat. No. 9,112,219 discloses an interactive figure which contains a microcontroller, a video display, and communications circuitry. There is a definite need for a reliable manner in which to access the circuitry in order to implement an update, improvement, or addition to the capabilities of the interactive figure. However, this patent does not disclose a mechanism for updating the circuitry.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,022,073 discloses an interactive figure which contains a computer-based device including stored intelligence for recognizing speech, controlling animation, and acquiring data representative of human facial images. However, there is no mechanical provision for updating or modifying the circuitry.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,008,288 discloses an interactive figure which contains a wireless communications device for communicating with a computer. The computer provides instructions based on gathered data and in response to a stored user's personal profile. There is no provision for mechanical manipulation to facilitate updates or replacements of hardware.

United States Patent Application Publication No. 20150133025 discloses an interactive toy having a wireless communication which communicates information corresponding to interaction with the toy. Processors, software, and hardware are housed within the toy. They may not be serviced, updated, or replaced without disassembly of the toy.

SUMMARY

Briefly stated, in accordance with the present subject matter, an interactive figure comprises an interaction module to interact with users and remotely interact with other communications devices and persons remote from the interactive figure. The interaction module is deployable within an outer body such as a soft toy. A module is provided having a housing for circuitry, processors, transducers, and communications devices. The module communicates with an exterior surface of the body. An outer perimeter adjacent one axial end of the housing is maintained in a mounting ring projecting through a surface of the toy. A locking ring secures the mounting ring in engagement with the surface. In one embodiment, the locking ring is constructed to minimize stress on the surface of the toy in order to avoid tearing.

The module has a housing disposed inside of a body, but in a manner in which the module remains easily accessible for replacement. In one form, a body may comprise a cavity receiving the housing and the housing has an exterior cover. Components in the housing may be visible or operable through the cover.

This arrangement permits the use of a soft or hard housing retained within a surface comprised of a soft material. Original modules may be replaced with updated modules without the need for disassembling the body in order to provide an updated assembly. Updating of an apparatus is permitted, obviating the need to replace the entire assembly.

The present structure facilitates efficient interaction with local and wide area communication networks. Software is readily available for update or replacement and can interact with applications on portable interactive devices such as smart phones.

The present structure allows for state-of-the-art therapy techniques to be applied to interactive objects. A toy body and communications package and interactive ports may be combined at a point of sale. The need to maintain an inventory of dedicated combinations is reduced or eliminated.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a user and an interactive figure;

FIG. 2 illustrates modes of communication between the interactive figure and external apparatus;

FIG. 3 illustrates capabilities of the interaction module cooperating with additional apparatus in the interactive figure;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a generalized embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of the interaction module;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the interaction module;

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of the interactive figure, partially broken away, receiving the interaction module;

FIG. 8 a partial cross-sectional view of the interactive figure of FIG. 7 and an elevation of the mounting ring and the locking ring which mount the interaction module in the interactive figure;

FIG. 9 is a partial, detailed perspective view of a portion of a surface of an interactive figure prepared for receiving the interaction module;

FIG. 10 is a partial detailed perspective view, partially broken away, of a mounting ring adjacent the surface of the interactive figure;

FIG. 11 is a partial, detailed perspective view illustrating the interaction module mounted in the interactive figure;

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of one embodiment suitable for the interactive scenario of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 13 is an exploded isometric view of a further embodiment of the interaction module.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a user 1 who is the subject of therapy or who is otherwise intended to benefit by various modalities of interaction with an interactive FIG. 10. Different modalities are employed by therapists for treating various conditions. Conditions may predominate in various age groups. In the present illustration, the user 1 is a child. Children may be treated for such conditions as autism. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is found in any age group but particularly in adults. Geriatric patients may be treated for dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

The interactive FIG. 10 is provided as a vehicle through which to provide a preselected experience to the user 1. In many embodiments, the interactive FIG. 10 is a therapy figure. A feature common to various embodiments is the ability to provide a preselected experience. Preselected experiences may range from sophisticated therapy to simply providing a comfort object. An interaction module 12 is provided in the interactive FIG. 10. The interaction module 12 communicates with the user 1. The complexity of communication that may be enabled is provided by the interaction module 12. The structure of each embodiment is selected to provide at least a set of capabilities. Capabilities that may be provided by the interaction module 12 include provision of visual stimuli, aural stimuli, verbal communication, measuring actions of the user 1, and implementing commands from remote sources and providing feedback to the remote sources.

FIG. 2 illustrates modes of communication between the interactive FIG. 10 and external apparatus 38. The interaction module 12 includes a transceiver 14 which is coupled by a Wi-Fi link 22 to a router 24. The router 24 connects to a network 30, which usually will comprise the Internet. A main server 40 is a preferred vehicle through which a care provider work station 42 interacts with the user 1 via the network 30 and the interactive FIG. 10. The care provider may comprise a live therapist 44, a software program 46, or other entity capable of comprising commands or combination thereof. The software program 46 is resident in a computer 48. A portable interactive device 50, such as a smart phone, may also communicate with network 30 and utilize a smart phone app 52 programmed for implementing a therapy protocol. Actions and data flow are directed by a processor 80 in the main server 40.

Dedicated apparatus may be used for computer therapy. A number of therapy programs currently exist. Comfort toys may be used to provide interaction with the user 1. However, comfort toys or the like which provide some sort of communication with the user 1 (FIG. 1). Prior art apparatus generally cannot be updated or repurposed without significant reconstruction of an interactive figure in which they are included. The present subject matter allows simplified, cost-effective, and flexible updating or modification of hardware and software for executing steps commanded by therapy programs. Techniques are utilized in accordance with the present subject matter for enhancing capabilities, and providing alternate or additional performance.

The computer 48 is included in the care provider work station 42. “Computerized therapy” places the emphasis on the computer 48's playing an active role in delivering the clinical content. The computer 48 functions as more than just a means of delivery. The present subject matter enhances the flexibility of and accessibility to computerized therapy.

FIG. 3 illustrates an interactive FIG. 10 having additional components and capability residing outside of the interaction module 12. The interaction module 12 may comprise a control circuit 16. The control circuit 16 translates signals received by the interaction module 12, which are usually in digital form. A complete therapy protocol may be delivered through use of the interaction module 12. Additional apparatus may optionally be included in the interactive FIG. 10 in locations outside of the interaction module 12. The control circuit 16 translates incoming intelligence into digital or direct current signals for operating digital or analog apparatus located in the interactive FIG. 10. Operating apparatus may include such items as linkages 60 driven by motors 62 to operate limbs of the interactive FIG. 10. Visual effects may include and be provided by light sources 64 positioned in eyes of the interactive FIG. 10. An indicator light 66 may also be provided and positioned in the interaction module 12.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of one form of the interaction module 12. In this embodiment, the processor comprises a microcontroller (MCU) 100. One suitable MCU 100 is the Texas Instruments CC 3200 Wi-Fi MCU (CC 3200). The CC 3200 provides such features as a fast parallel camera interface and an ARM Cortex-M4 core running at 80 MHz. The CC 3200 is a single-chip programmable microcontroller with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. The MCU 100 is connected to interact with components that give the interactive FIG. 10 its “personality” and capabilities.

In the MCU 100, a program memory 105 stores data indicative of programs, such as individual applications. Program data may include purchased applications, downloaded software, media, and other programs from external sources. A data memory 106 is provided for user data. User data includes profiles and other data entered by or on behalf of a user. A program interface 107 allows downloading of selected applications to the interaction module 12. The program interface 107 communicates via the Wi-Fi section of the MCU 100. Wi-Fi communication is provided via an antenna 115 coupled to the MCU 100 by a data bus 111. An analog to digital and digital to analog codec circuit 113 translates digital intelligence between the user 1 and the interaction module 12. The codec 113 is coupled by an amplifier 114, such as a Class D amplifier, to a speaker 125. The codec 113 also translates intelligence between the MCU 100 and a microphone 116. Operation can be initialized by use of a reset switch 138.

Different groups of components may be selected in different embodiments. Components in FIG. 4 are illustrated as discrete components for purposes of description. Memories, filters, and other components could be integrated in chips rather than distributed over separate modules.

The interaction module 12 comprises a plurality of component sections each providing selected functions and capabilities. The resolution of the interaction module 12 into sections is only for purposes of the present description. Functions may be distributed over a plurality of portions of the interaction module 12. Components providing diverse functions may be grouped together. In the present illustration, sections include a power supply 140, a processing and control unit 150, a sensor package 160, audiovisual unit 170, interface circuit 180, and operating circuitry 190, and a communications section 200.

The power supply 140 comprises a voltage source 202, power conditioning circuitry 204, and a wireless charging circuit 206. It is desirable for the power supply 140 to require minimal maintenance. In one form, the voltage source 202 comprises a lithium-polymer battery 210. Selection of an appropriate capacity for a battery 210 represents an optimization of needed power versus size and weight of the battery in an application. In one nominal embodiment, a battery 210 having capacity of 750 mAh at 3.7 V is provided. Alternatively, the battery 210 may be a rechargeable battery. Alternatively, a wireless charger 214 may charge the battery 210 via the power conditioning circuit 204. In one preferred form, the battery 210 comprises a hybrid battery including a supercapacitor. Such hybrid batteries provide longer service life and improved operating characteristics. The battery 210 may be charged from a hardwired connection from the power conditioning circuit 204 to a source via a micro USB connector 212. The power conditioning circuit 204 also couples voltage from the battery 210 to drive the interaction module 12. A battery monitor 220 monitors potential at the local power source. A charge indicator LED 224 is connected to the battery monitor 220 to indicate that charging is in progress.

One preferred form of wireless charger 214 comprises an interface compliant with the Qi Standard developed by the Wireless Power Consortium, Piscataway, N.J. In the present embodiment, the wireless charger 214 comprises a charging pad 216 which is included in the interaction module 12. The charging pad 216 comprises an inductor 215 which receives energy from a charging cradle 218. The charging cradle 218 is not a portion of the interaction module 12. The charging cradle 218 is shaped to interact with the charging pad 216. The interactive FIG. 10 and the interaction module 12 may be shaped to allow charging without having to remove the interaction module 12 from the toy 1. The charging pad 216 is coupled by a ribbon cable 217 for charging the battery 210.

Processing and control circuitry 150 includes the MCU 100, which is the processor capable of executing commands to provide programmed entertainment, therapy steps, or movement of parts of the interactive FIG. 10. A control circuit 250 is used to provide a number of functions, depending on the components of a particular embodiment. For example, the control circuit 250 may translate commands provided from the MCU 100 to drive additional circuitry and mechanical components as illustrated in FIG. 3. A data bus 260 interfaces the MCU 100 to other sections and to other circuits within the process and control circuitry 150.

The sensor package 160 includes an array 270 of transducers and monitors to implement programmed actions and to respond to actions of the user 1 via the interactive FIG. 10. Transducers may monitor temperature, time, sounds, composition of gases in the ambient atmosphere, or other parameters. Sensors include a temperature sensor 300, an accelerometer 304, a microphone 308, a clock 312, and a gas detector 316.

The audiovisual unit 170 comprises elements to provide intelligence to the user 1 and to external personnel. Elements include a television camera 330, a video detector 340, a radio transceiver 346, a microphone 348, and a speaker 350. Interface circuit 180 includes an RF interface 360. The RF interface 360 comprises, for example, Wi-Fi coupling, Bluetooth coupling, any IEEE 802.11 form of communication, Internet coupling, wired sockets for wired coupling, or modems. The operating circuitry 190 includes the necessary elements for enabling performance such as switches, light sources, biasing means, substrates, and coupling wiring.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a further embodiment, which includes an interaction module 12, and FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the interaction module 12. FIGS. 5 and 6 are taken together. This embodiment is intended for mobile use at locations where an Internet connection is available. The most common locations would be in the home, care centers, automobile, or other functions. This embodiment serves as a “Nanny Cam” (camera 482 below). The interaction module 12 in the present embodiment takes the form of an enclosure 400. The enclosure 400 comprises a housing 402 and a cover 404. In one preferred form, the housing 402 comprises a right circular cylinder having an axis 406. The housing 402 has a proximal end 408 and a distal end 410. A distal wall 412 closes the housing 402 at the distal end 410 of the housing 402. The proximal end 408 is positioned at a surface 510 (FIG. 7) of the interactive FIG. 10 and extends in an axial direction into an interior of the interactive FIG. 10 (FIG. 7). The housing 402 defines a chamber 414. A flange 416 projects radially from the housing 402. The housing 402 may be made of non-metallic material in order to avoid shielding of RF signals.

The housing 402 is mounted in a retaining ring 418. A locking ring 420 is positioned to capture a surface 511 (FIG. 6) of the interactive FIG. 10 between the retaining ring 418 and the locking ring 420. First and second latching keys 434 and 435 are provided projecting radially from the axially extending surface of the housing 402. The latching key 434 is visible at the outer diameter of the housing 402. The latching key 435 is shown in phantom lines displaced 180° from the latching key 434. The latching keys 434 and 435 are used for aligning the housing 402 during insertion and fixing of the housing 402 in the retaining ring 418.

The retaining ring 418 has an axial body 500 and a radial flange 502. The axial body 500 has a thickness to accommodate the projections and recesses formed therein. The axial body 500 comprises an axially extending first slot 510 and a second axially extending slot 512 displaced 180° from the axially extending slot 510. The axially extending slots 510 and 512 extend for a portion of the length of the axial body 500 and beyond that, there is a cutout area of the axial body 500. At a fixed distance from the flange 502, bayonet slots 514 and 515 extend circumferentially from the axially extending slots 510 and 512 respectively. Bayonet clips 522 and 523 are provided at diametrically opposed angular positions and cantilevered from an axial position adjacent the flange 502. The bayonet clip 522 comprises a detent ridge 524, and the bayonet clip 523 comprises a detent ridge 525. A first circumferential ridge 528 is provided on an outer diameter of the axial body 500 on one side of the bayonet clips 522 and 523. A second circumferential ridge 529 is formed on an outer diameter of the axial body 500 on an opposite side of the bayonet clips 522 and 523. The circumferential ridges 528 and 529 are dimensioned so that an inner diameter of the locking ring 420 will be greater than the radial extent of the circumferential ridges 528 and 529. The circumferential ridges 528 and 529 reinforce the axial body 500. This construction is especially helpful when the axial body 500 is made from plastic.

The enclosure 400 will house components of the interaction module 12. In the present illustration, components are mounted on a circuit board 430, which is supported to the radial flange 416, or may be disposed within the chamber 414. Screws 417 secure the circuit board 430 to the radial flange 416. In the present illustration, a power supply 440 is mounted in the housing 402. A processing and control unit 450, a sensor package 460, an audiovisual unit 470, an interface circuit 480, and operating circuitry 490 are mounted to the circuit board 430. The audiovisual unit 470 comprises a speaker 472 and microphone 474. Vent holes 476 are formed in the cover 404 for transmission of sound to and from the speaker 472 and microphone 474. An on-off switch 484 is operated by a switch actuator 485. In the present illustration, the on-off switch 484 is a slide switch.

The power supply 440 comprises a battery 442. In this embodiment, a lithium-polymer battery is included having capacity of 750 mAh at 3.7 V. This value represents an optimization of needed power versus size and weight of the battery in a nominal application. Other values may be provided. The power supply 440 may include a wireless power coupler 444 for charging the battery 442. The power supply 440 may be similar in structure to the power supply 140 of FIG. 4. The processing and control unit 450 includes a processor capable of executing commands to provide programs to entertainment, therapy steps, or movement of parts of the interactive FIG. 10. The processing and control unit 450 comprises the MCU 100 in the form of a Texas Instruments CC 3200 Wi-Fi MCU. A temperature sensor 446 is positioned to sense temperature of the battery 440 in order to inactivate the interaction module 12 in the event of battery overheating.

The sensor package 460 includes transducers and monitors to implement programmed actions. Transducers may monitor temperature, time, sounds, composition of gases in the ambient atmosphere, or other parameters. The audiovisual unit 470 comprises elements to provide intelligence to the user and to external personnel. Elements include a television camera 482, a transceiver 487, the microphone 474, and the speaker 472. Interface circuit 480 includes Wi-Fi coupling, Bluetooth coupling, any IEEE 802.11 form of communication, Internet coupling, wired sockets for wired coupling, or modems. The operating circuitry 490 includes the necessary elements for enabling performance such as switches, light sources, biasing means, substrates, and coupling wiring.

In addition to therapy functions, the microphone may be used by the user 1 to speak to a person using a smartphone 50 connected via the network 30 (FIG. 2). The interaction module 12 is replaceable using the mechanical arrangement of FIG. 7. Consequently, updated processors or other significant components may be replaced without the need to open the interactive FIG. 10 or to purchase a replacement figure. When dealing with an emotional problem of a child or a PTSD patient, this can be a most important aspect of maintaining functionality of the interactive FIG. 10. In addition to therapy, this embodiment permits the user 1 to speak with an external person via telephone. In the case of a child, for example, they may communicate with the therapist and can communicate with parents also.

Many different forms of enclosure 400 may be provided. In the illustrated form, a compact enclosure 400 has been designed having a shape resembling a hockey puck. Other shapes could include a canister or an irregular solid. The circuit board is designed to limit power consumption to a level that is accommodated by a lithium-polymer 750 mAh battery. The size of this battery is small enough to enable the enclosure 400 to have a shape wherein the axial length of the enclosure 400 is less than its diameter.

A depressible button 486 having a preselected shape, in the present embodiment a heart, is pivotally mounted to the circuit board 430. The button 486 projects through a mating aperture 488 in the cover 404. First and second biasing springs 491 and 492 are located between a lower side of the button 486 and the circuit board 430. A flexible arm 494 projects radially from the button 486 and is supported to the circuit board 430. The flexible arm 494 may comprise plastic or other material. The user 1 may press the button 486 in order to achieve a result dictated by construction of the interaction module 12. For example, the button 486 may actuate a light 496 which may comprise a light emitting diode (LED). The light may indicate, for example, an “awake” status of the interactive FIG. 10.

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a further embodiment of the interactive FIG. 10, partially broken away, receiving the interaction module 12. FIG. 8 a partial cross-sectional view of the interactive FIG. 10 and an elevation of the housing 402 and the locking ring 420 mounting the interaction module 12 in the interactive FIG. 10. FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 are taken together. The interactive FIG. 10 comprises a surface 532. An aperture 519 in the surface 532 receives the housing 402 in an interior 536 of the interactive FIG. 10. In many preferred forms, the interior 536 does not have a fixed shape. It comprises a volume within the surface 532 which varies as the surface 532 is manipulated. In order to provide a shape of the interactive FIG. 10 substantially corresponding to a shape defined by the sewing pattern used to make the interactive FIG. 10, the interior 536 is filled to a preselected level of density with stuffing 538 (not shown in FIG. 8). The stuffing 538 may comprise, for example, batting, granular material such as seeds, or foam. Hardness of the interactive FIG. 10 is determined by the density of the stuffing 538. Density of the stuffing 538 is selected to allow sufficient volume to allow insertion of the housing 402. A cage 534 (FIG. 7) may be provided projecting into the interior 536 to define a volume which will receive the housing 402.

FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of the interactive FIG. 10 and an elevation of the retaining ring 418 and the locking ring 420. The retaining ring 418 receives the housing 402 for mounting the interaction module 12 in the interactive FIG. 10. The locking ring 420 and the retaining ring 418 mount the interaction module 12 in the interactive FIG. 10. One convenient shape for the housing 402 (FIG. 6) is a right rectangular cylinder. However other shapes may be provided. In one preferred embodiment, the housing 402 fits inside of the retaining ring 418.

In assembly, the axial portion 510 of the retaining ring 418 is inserted through the aperture 519 so that the flange 516 bears against an outer side of the surface 532. The bayonet clips 522 and 523 formed on the retaining ring 418 are positioned to be disposed in the interior 536 and to provide axial clearance for the locking ring 418 to slide over the bayonet clips 522 and 523 to bear against an interior side of the surface 532. The surface 532 is captured between the locking ring 420 and the radial flange 516 of the retaining ring 418.

In order to secure the interaction module 12 in the retaining ring 418, the housing 402 is positioned coaxially with the retaining ring 418. The housing 402 is moved axially so that the latching keys 434 and 435 slide in the axial slots 510 and 512 respectively. Once the latching keys 434 and 435 reach the bayonet slots 514 and 515, the housing 402 is rotated to be secured in the bayonet slots 514 and 515.

In the present illustration, the locking ring 420 is threaded onto the fastening section 548 and captures a reinforcement ring 556 between the locking ring 554 and the retaining ring 418. The length of the feedthrough section 549 projecting beyond the retaining ring 418 is preferably minimized.

FIG. 9 is a partial, detailed perspective view of a portion of the surface 532 prepared for receiving the interaction module 12 (FIG. 11). The interaction module 12 is placed through the aperture 519. The aperture 519 has a perimeter 563 and has a diameter 564 having a width d. As an alternative to carefully cutting out the aperture 519, formation of the aperture 519 may begin by creating a starter hole 565. The starter hole 565 may be imprecisely formed. Slots 566 are extending between the starter hole 565 and the perimeter 563. A stress relief hole 567 is formed at the intersection of each slot 566 and the perimeter 563. Cutting of the slots 566 creates a tab 568 between each pair of slots 566. A number of tabs 568 are provided sufficient to allow folding back of the tabs 568 in order to form a perimeter 563 which reasonably approximates a circle or other shape of the interaction module 12 without ripping the surface 532 in the area of the perimeter 563. Resilient material will require the use of fewer tabs 568 than stiff material. When the interactive figure is made in production quantities, the aperture 519 may be formed by stamping.

FIG. 10 is a partial detailed perspective view, partially broken away, of the retaining ring 418 received in the area illustrated in FIG. 7. The retaining ring 418 is supported to the surface 532. The retaining ring 418 is shown surrounding the aperture 519. In this embodiment, the tabs 568 are folded back from the perimeter 563 and retained against the retaining ring 418 by a tie wrap 571. The tie wrap 571 provides an inexpensive and reliable means of securing the tabs 568 so as not to interfere with components. The tabs 568 could be removed or secured by adhesive. However, this extra processing is not required. This embodiment may be desirable when the interactive FIG. 10 is made in low quantities.

FIG. 11 is a partial, detailed perspective view partially broken away illustrating the housing 402 mounted in the retaining ring 418. The latching key 435 is shown secured in the bayonet slot 515. The bayonet clip 523 is seen projecting beyond the locking ring 418.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram of one embodiment suitable for the interactive scenario of FIG. 1. In this embodiment, the interaction module 12 comprises an integrated circuit 602, which may comprise the CC 3200 integrated circuit. The integrated circuit 602 includes an applications microcontroller, Wi-Fi network processor, and power management system. The Wi-Fi network processor communicates via an antenna 604. A radio flash memory 610 stores communications values. A user flash memory 612 stores data. A user interface 614 includes a switch 576 for controlling an LED 577 as seen in FIG. 6. An accelerometer 620 coupled to the integrated circuit 602 senses movement of the interactive FIG. 10 imparted by the user 1. The integrated circuit 602 is coupled to an audio codec 626. The audio codec 626 receives inputs from a microphone 630 and provides outputs to an amplifier 636 which drives a speaker 638. A power supply 644 powers the circuit elements and is coupled to a recharging circuit 646.

In this embodiment, the user 1 can speak to the interactive FIG. 10. Voice inputs from the microphone 630 can be analyzed by artificial intelligence in the integrated circuit 602. The user 1 is enabled to interact computer therapy embodied in or communicating with it circuit 602. The interactive FIG. 10 “speaks” to the user 1 via the speaker 638. Alternatively, or additionally, a caregiver communicating via the network 30 from a remote location may interact with the user 1.

FIG. 13 illustrates a further embodiment in the form of an interaction module 700. This figure is an isometric view, partially broken away illustrating the interaction module 700 as assembled. The interaction module 700 comprises a housing 702 and a cover 704. The housing 704 is open at a distal end 706 at a surface 16 of the interactive FIG. 10 (FIG. 1). The housing 702 extends into the interactive FIG. 10. A printed circuit board 720 is populated by components 723 which will allow at least a predetermined range of interactions with the user 1.

The housing 702 closed by a printed circuit board 720 defines a chamber 724. A battery 726 is supported to standoffs 728. The standoffs 728 support the battery 726 at a preselected distance from a proximal end 734 of the housing 702. If the battery 726 is to be replaced, the printed circuit board 720 is removed and the battery 726 is readily accessible. A battery charger 750 is located intermediate ends of the standoff 728 and the proximal end 734. A battery charging pad 760 is secured to the proximal end 734.

The present subject matter provides a novel way of fastening an interaction module to an interactive figure. The module is locked to a surface of the interactive figure. The module can be updated in a number of ways, each of which can be accomplished without taking the interactive figure apart. Consequently, an interactive figure may be updated or repurposed readily.

It is to be understood that although the present invention, has been described with regard to preferred embodiments thereof, various other embodiments and variants may occur to those skilled in the art, which are within the scope and spirit of the invention, and such other embodiments and variants are intended to be covered by the following claims.

Claims

1. An interactive figure including a body and an interaction module, the interaction module defining and enabling interactivity of the interactive figure and a user, comprising:

a body comprising flexible surfaces;

an aperture in one said flexible surface;

an interaction module releasably secured to said body, the module comprising a housing and a closure member, the housing having a section positioned projecting through said aperture;

a mounting ring for retaining said interaction module with respect to said body;

a locking member surrounding the section and bearing against said mounting ring and capturing a surface of said body;

said closure member being releasably secured to said housing for providing access to an interior of said housing;

said interaction module comprising a receiver and a processor and interface circuitry enabling interaction of said interactive figure with an external server;

interaction circuitry mounted in said interior of said housing being releasably secured in said interior;

said interface circuitry comprising a transducer receiving an input from a user, the processor translating user inputs for transmission to the external server; and

wherein said interface circuitry further comprises circuity to provide received inputs to said processor, said processor translating intelligence received from the external server into outputs perceptible to the user.

2. An interactive figure according to claim 1 wherein said support comprises a printed circuit board closing said housing and defining a chamber.

3. An interactive figure according to claim 2 wherein said interface circuitry is distributed among said printed circuit board and said chamber.

4. An interactive figure according to claim 3 wherein said closure member comprises a closure aperture for receiving a button member and further comprising a button member pivotally mounted to said printed circuit board and biased to project through said closure aperture.

5. An interactive figure according to claim 4 wherein said housing comprises a radially extending flange positioned at an exterior of said flexible surface and wherein said housing further comprises an interactive component having an element positioned to be at the preselected position when said housing is secured to said closure member; and wherein a reinforcement in said one flexible surface is at a perimeter of the aperture.

6. An interactive figure according to claim 5 wherein said button member transmits light and wherein said elements comprise a light source.

7. An interactive figure according to claim 6 further comprising a link for receiving intelligence from a user location, said interactive figure comprising a control circuit and operating components.

8. The interactive figure of claim 7 further comprising a cage communicating with said aperture and said external surface and defining a dedicated volume for receiving said interaction module.

9. The interactive figure of claim 8 wherein said interaction module comprises terminals for coupling signals to controllable elements mounted in said interactive figure remote from said interaction module.

10. A therapy figure including a body and an interaction module, the interaction module defining and enabling interactivity of the interactive figure and a user, comprising:

a body comprising flexible surfaces;

an aperture in one said flexible surface;

an interaction module releasably secured to said body, the module comprising a housing and a closure member, the housing having a section positioned projecting through said aperture;

a mounting ring for positioning said interaction module with respect to said body;

locking members surrounding the section and bearing against said mounting ring;

a cover releasably secured to said body on an opposite side of said flexible surface;

said interaction module comprising interface circuitry enabling interaction of said interactive figure with external sources;

interaction circuitry mounted in said interior of said housing being releasably secured in said interior;

said interaction circuitry comprising a processor configurable for receiving therapy programs;

a processor programmed to execute computer therapy programs; and

a communications link for interacting with a remote server executing a corresponding therapy program.

11. A therapy figure according to claim 10 wherein said communications link comprises a Wi-Fi link.

12. A therapy figure according to claim 11 wherein said interface circuitry is distributed among said printed circuit board and said chamber and wherein said interface circuitry comprises a rechargeable battery.

13. A therapy figure according to claim 12 further comprising a wireless charging pad mounted in said housing and coupled to power conditioning circuitry for charging said rechargeable battery.

14. A therapy figure according to claim 13 further comprising a removably secured printed circuit board closing said housing and defining a chamber in said housing.

15. A therapy figure according to claim 14 wherein said housing is constructed to allow passage of radio frequency signals.

16. A comfort figure comprising:

a body comprising flexible surfaces;

an aperture in one said flexible surface;

a reinforcement in said one flexible surface at a perimeter of the aperture;

an interaction module releasably secured to said body, the module comprising a housing projecting into an interior of said body and a closure member on an exterior of said body, the housing projecting through said aperture;

locking members surrounding the section and bearing against opposite sides of said reinforcement;

said housing member having a radial projection for securing between said locking members, said locking members capturing said radial projection and said surface of said body;

said interaction module comprising interface circuitry enabling interaction of said interactive figure with external sources and receivers;

said interface circuitry comprising a processor configurable for receiving instructions for comfort functions; and

a communications link for interacting with a remote server transmitting commanded comfort functions comprising auditory instructions and voice messaging.

17. A comfort figure according to claim 16 wherein said interaction module comprises a transducer receiving an input from a user and a processor translating user inputs for transmission to the external server.

18. A comfort figure according to claim 16 further comprising a cage communicating with said aperture and said external surface and defining a dedicated volume for receiving said interaction module.

19. A comfort figure according to claim 16 further comprising a button supported to said housing and having a preselected shape in a radial dimension, said cover having an aperture shaped to surround said button, said button being biased.

20. The comfort figure of claim 19 further comprising a light source positioned in said button.