Abstract: A toy playset comprising a multi-compartment housing and a toy contained within the multi-compartment housing. The multi-compartment housing has a main compartment, a first locked compartment, and a second locked compartment. The main compartment contains the toy and a first key that is assigned to unlock the first locked compartment. The first locked compartment contains a second key that is assigned to unlock the second locked compartment.

Abstract: A three-dimensional puzzle comprising a plurality of cuboid puzzle blocks together forming a predetermined three-dimensional puzzle shape, wherein each puzzle block comprises either a male or a female connecting element on each of at least three sides of the puzzle block; wherein the connecting elements for the respective puzzle block are configured such that each puzzle block is unique.

Abstract: Systems that are used to support a plurality of frames arranged in a specific configuration are contemplated. The system comprises outer frame panels that removably couple to the plurality of frames. It is contemplated that the outer frame panels collectively couple to the plurality of frames to thereby provide additional stability to maintain the plurality of frames in the specific configuration, such that the risk of the plurality of frames losing their specific configuration during transport is reduced.

Abstract: A rehabilitation assistance system includes a peg board, a peg to be placed on the peg board by a subject, and a position information acquisition unit that acquires position information indicating a position of the peg relative to a predetermined position on the peg board. The position information acquisition unit includes a sensor provided on at least one of the peg and the peg board, and the position information acquisition unit acquires the position information based on an output from the sensor.

Abstract: A versatile exercise apparatus and system is provided. A cylindrical apparatus having first and second surfaces of either planar or arcuate configuration is configured with plural polygonal openings useable for manipulation of the apparatus or as openings into which various modules may be set to increase the activity versatility of the apparatus. The provided exercise apparatus provides flexibility while economizing on occupied space.

Abstract: A timed assessment and graded activity, allows professional staff, occupational therapist, school psychologist, physician (neurologist and pediatrician), and the like, to assess their patients in various areas. The assessment and graded activity can be used for motor skills, including fine-gross motor coordination and hand speed. The assessment and graded activity can also be used for assessing vision, including color, eye-hand coordination, crossing midline, left or right side neglect, and eye movements, crossing midline and left-right side neglect. Furthermore, the assessment and graded activity can be used for determining cognitive skills, including processing, concentration, attention deficit, problem solving, and ability to follow instructions. The 21-piece challenge as an assessment and graded activity designed to use a set of wooden dowels with its respective board. The 21 pieces of wood dowels contains five pieces of a first color, four pieces of three other colors, and two pieces of two other colors.

Abstract: A learning system for testing aspects of how a child learns includes a toy-like electro-mechanical chassis having upstanding pegs. The child is encouraged to place donut shaped hand pieces onto the pegs. The hand pieces test the ability of the child to discriminate between different colors, and separately between different textures and different shapes and also tests the child's abilities in perception and creativity. The electro-mechanical chassis also is able to test the child's ability to discern and copy tones and rhythms. Information of the child's performance is automatically collected and compared with normalized results of a large tested group of subjects. Remediation focuses on activities related to the learning channels where the child is least astute and periodic retesting measures the ability of the child to improve in those channels to enable improvement of remediation approaches.

Abstract: The Texture Game 1 is provided for determining the texture of a pair of game pieces 5 that are enclosed in a cylindrical enclosure 2 with open ends, a fabric 3 covers the enclosure 2 and overlaps the open ends, and elastic means 4 sewn into the ends of the fabric substantially closing the open ends but allows a players hand to be inserted into the enclosure 2 for determining the texture of the pairs of game pieces 5 and for withdrawing the matching game pieces from within the enclosure 2.

Abstract: A multi-purpose tool may be used for assisting patients, students and/or users to improve memory and eye/hand coordination. The tool may be used for a number of functions, including solitaire games, rehabilitation or education. The tool may be in the form of a board having a slot in an upper frame member. Below the upper frame member may be seven spaces, and below the seven spaces may be vertical dividers.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing aspects of how a child learns includes a toy-like base having upstanding pegs. The child is encouraged to place donut shaped hand pieces onto the pegs. The hand pieces test the ability of the child to discriminate between different colors, and separately between different textures and different shapes and also tests the child's abilities in perception and creativity. The base also is able to test the child's ability to discern and copy tones and rhythms. Information of the child's performance is automatically collected within the apparatus and then compared with a normative baseline. Remediation focuses on activities related to the learning channels where the child is least astute and periodic retesting measures the ability of the child to improve in those channels to enable improvement of remediation approaches.

Abstract: A multipurpose connector member for connecting PET bottles, which has an upper part forming a liquid outlet mouth to be sealed with stopper; the cylindrical side wall; and a lower part having a concave area or a recessive on the beneath surface is provided, in which another liquid outlet mouth to be sealed with stopper is provided downwards at the center portion of the said concave area or the recessive beneath the bottle, or a symmetrical shape of liquid outlet mouth portion corresponding to the said liquid outlet mouth 11 is extended in the integrated manner from the cylindrical side wall, whereby approaching the desired shape of construction by connecting the said PET bottles and separately the various shapes of connector members and/or subsidiary connector members into an appropriate feature for the purpose.

Abstract: A system of facilitating childhood learning uses a select group of familiar domestic articles which are rendered or portrayed or developed as characters in a story. The devices are fastening devices for use on clothes or different apparel articles, selectively including a zipper, a snap, a button, a buckle and a string or a lace. Features of the human being, for instance at least one of eyes, ears, a nose, a mouth, arms or legs are added to the devices. The story is related in a selected media, which can be a book, television or radio rendition, movie, video or cards.

Abstract: A new method is described of providing mental stimulus to a subject suffering significant cognitive and/or sensory impairment or deterioration, for example a subject having a medically diagnosed dementia such as Alzheimer's disease, and thereby enhancing the subject's psychological condition. The method of the invention comprises causing the subject to handle an article comprising a plurality of pieces that (a) individually have a surface layer formed of a soft fabric, and (b) collectively exhibit differing tactility when handled by the subject.

Abstract: A book cover for retaining objects is presented including a front panel and back panel hingedly connected to form a book cover. A window extends outward from the front panel in the book cover, forming an enclosure for retaining objects between the cover and a surface proximate to the cover. The window can be clear, displaying the objects held in place thereby, and the book cover may include a closure mechanism to prevent the window from opening and letting the pieces out. The book cover may also be incorporated into an educational activity book comprising a front panel and a back panel connected to form a book cover. Puzzle pieces may be provided in one embodiment for inclusion in the cover of the book in order to assist in teaching children object association and enhancing their coordination.

Abstract: A multipurpose connector member for connecting PET bottles, which has an upper part forming a liquid outlet mouth to be sealed with stopper; the cylindrical side wall; and a lower part having a concave area or a recessive on the beneath surface is provided, in which another liquid outlet mouth to be sealed with stopper is provided downwards at the center portion of the said concave area or the recessive beneath the bottle, or a symmetrical shape of liquid outlet mouth portion corresponding to the said liquid outlet mouth 11 is extended in the integrated manner from the cylindrical side wall, whereby approaching the desired shape of construction by connecting the said PET bottles and separately the various shapes of connector members and/or subsidiary connector members into an appropriate feature for the purpose.

Abstract: This invention is a family table game, which has the function to become portable. It develops ones ability to identify detailed play pieces 24 by the sense of touch, exciting a players mental ability toward learning about these objects, challenging players sensory perceptions and mental imaging skills while improving finger dexterity. The game uses miniature or larger than life renditions of well known objects, man or nature created, as game pieces 24 played with three dimensional embossed knowledge cards 26. Game pieces sit in a circular, dome shaped container FIG. 1 out of view of player. Player spins card housing 30 (holding the interchangeable game cards 26) which stops randomly under view window 32. Player views or feels raised relief images on card 26 or reads corresponding descriptive text, starts timer 14 and begins searching through container (FIG. 4), using the sense of touch to find matching play pieces 24, earning points for each piece found in time.

Abstract: A kit containing a complete exercise to evaluate the cooperative skills of individuals in a group environment. The kit includes a package for storage, multiple pieces in predetermined geometric configuration such that a predetermined number of the multiple pieces may be fitted together to form multiple predetermined polygons, multiple containers configured and dimensioned to contain the multiple pieces and instructions. Also, a process for facilitating the kit's use, which includes instructing participants to gather around a work surface, placing containers in the center of the participants having multiple pieces, distributing documents containing participants' rules, a task and a mission for the participants, distributing documents having observer instructions defining the observer's role and instructing the participants to commence the exercise. During assembly, the observer and facilitator shall make observations and enforce the rules.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for identifying a module installed in a base from a plurality of different modules and selecting a set of functions corresponding to the installed module. A preferred embodiment is the Intelli-Table™ toy that includes three modules, each of which can be installed into an annular channel in the base. When a module is installed, a unique pattern of recesses or flat surfaces on the bottom of the module is detected by a first set of switches in the channel. Based on the unique state of these switches, the base selects a set of functions corresponding to the installed module. Each module includes a plurality of different movable elements that activate a second set of switches in the base. Moving an element activates a switch, causing the base to perform a function unique to that element and to the module installed.

Abstract: A three-dimensional built-up toy with freely connectable bases mainly includes at least one base in the form of a flat piece having a plurality of insertion slots formed thereon, and at least one figure and a plurality of matching decorations formed on and removable from the at least one base. The at least one figure and the plurality of matching decorations are integrally provided at lower ends with connecting sections adapted to insert into any of the insertion slots on the at least one base to hold the figure and the decorations to the at least one base in an upright position. The at least one base is provided along peripheral edges with coupling means. Two or more of the bases could be connected together to provide a large flat plane by engaging the coupling means on different bases with one another.

Abstract: A book cover for retaining objects is presented including a front panel and back panel hingedly connected to form a book cover. A window extends outward from the front panel in the book cover, forming an enclosure for retaining objects between the cover and a surface proximate to the cover. The window can be clear, displaying the objects held in place thereby, and the book cover may include a closure mechanism to prevent the window from opening and letting the pieces out. The book cover may also be incorporated into an educational activity book comprising a front panel and a back panel connected to form a book cover. Puzzle pieces may be provided in one embodiment for inclusion in the cover of the book in order to assist in teaching children object association and enhancing their coordination.

Abstract: Provided is a learning kit for three-dimensional play, for cultivating hand-to-eye coordination in children by constructing the contents of fairly tales by three-dimensional articles. A learning kit body having a cubic effect is constructed by representing people, objects, animals, plants or insects appearing on fairly tales or novels, toward which the children have a friendly feeling, in a realistic way, by means of nonwoven fabric boards which are adhesive to each other. Learning is done by standing on the substrate provided in the learning kit body the three-dimensional articles independently formed in harmony with divergent forms displayed on the learning kit body in an upright state. Also, since learning articles are attached to or suspended on the learning kit body, the children use their eyes, brain and hands at the same time, the learning effect can be further enhanced through utilization of hand-to-eye coordination.

Abstract: This invention is a family table game, which has the function to become portable. It develops ones ability to identify detailed play pieces 24 by the sense of touch, exciting a players mental ability toward learning about these objects, challenging players sensory perceptions and mental imaging skills while improving finger dexterity. The game uses miniature or larger than life renditions of well known objects, man or nature created, as game pieces 24 played with three dimensional embossed knowledge cards 26. Game pieces sit in a circular, dome shaped container FIG. 1 out of view of player. Player spins card housing 30 (holding the interchangeable game cards 26) which stops randomly under view window 32. Player views or feels raised relief images on card 26 or reads corresponding descriptive text, starts timer 14 and begins searching through container (FIG. 4), using the sense of touch to find matching play pieces 24, earning points for each piece found in time.

Abstract: A shape fitting toy comprising: a plurality of blocks having different types of shapes from each other, and a block selection part having a plurality of block passing holes each of which has a shape corresponding to one of the blocks having a plurality of different shapes and can pass only a corresponding one of the blocks. Each of the different types of shapes of the blocks is selected from a group consisting of a sphere and various types of regular polyhedrons.

Abstract: A system for teaching mathematics to beginning students includes a series of gloves and/or finger puppets, with the digits representing non-sequential number series (e.g., two, four, six, etc.). Students are taught to count various non-sequential number series using visual and tactile senses by using the gloves and/or finger puppets and associated hand patterns, with further audible reinforcement being provided by stories corresponding to each of the non-sequential series. Various caricatures corresponding to the plots of the stories may be used as further mnemonic aids for students in remembering the procedures and operations taught, with additional caricatures being provided for two and three place (i.e., tens and hundreds) digits for removable installation on the glove or finger puppet digits. Once the non-sequential series are learned, students are taught to multiply, divide, solve fraction problems, and factor numbers using the corresponding factor (e.g., two, for the two, four, six, etc. sequence).

Abstract: A toy apparatus includes a back housing portion which includes straps for connecting the apparatus to a crib. A plurality of item pressing members are connected to an interior portion of the back housing portion. A front housing portion includes a housing connector for connecting the front housing portion to the back housing portion. The front housing portion includes a plurality of item retainers and a plurality of windows placed in registration with the item retainers. A plurality of infant stimulus items are retained in the item retainers. The item retainers are placed in registration with the item pressing members when the front housing portion and the back housing portion are placed in a closed orientation. A housing lock assembly is connected between the back housing portion and the front housing portion, for keeping the back housing portion and the front housing portion closed with respect to each other.

Abstract: Disclosed is a shape sorting bucket for use in combination with a set of construction toy blocks having coupling elements that make them detachably stackable onto each other. The bucket is made of three parts including a container defining an enclosure in which the construction toy blocks can be stored, a shape sorting rim extending above the container, this rim having walls provided with holes of different shape, and a lid detachably connectable onto the rim, this lid having an upper surface from which project coupling elements similar to or compatible with those of the construction toy blocks, whereby the lid can be used as a base plate for use to play with the construction toy blocks. Some of the construction blocks are sized and shaped to snugly fit into and thus be sortable through the holes in the walls of the rim, whereby the bucket can also be used as a shape sorting toy. This bucket can be personalized into a character.

Abstract: An education system for teaching young children basic shapes, colors, numbers, letters and words is disclosed. The system is comprised of three board-game components. The first component teaches basic shapes and colors, the second component teaches numbers and colors and the third component teaches numbers, letters, and words.

Abstract: A teaching device assists a child in learning to put on shoes correctly by rewarding the child when the shoes are put on correctly. A telescoping enclosure has a movable upper section with footprints on the upper section. The footprints are shaped to conform to right and left shoes, and additional symbols may be applied to the footprints. The child's shoe will have a shorting bar to cooperate with an electric grid on one of the footprints. As a result, when the shoes are on correctly, the shorting bar will engage the electric grid so a circuit will be completed, and entertainment will be provided in the form of light and/or sound play.

Abstract: A game has a first plurality of different interlockable play pieces and a second plurality of cards depicting plans for assembling some of the interlockable pieces into a rectangular pattern. The play pieces are placed in a flexible bag having a plurality of access ports, and each player extends a hand through a port into the bag. Players select play pieces from the bag using their sense of touch and assemble the pieces in accordance with the plan shown on their respective cards.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for the testing and evaluating of a person's dexterity, range of motion, and dynamic lifting ability. The dexterity testing includes methods which can evaluate the wrist and hand range of motion by requiring the person to move his wrist through the normal range of motions, including flexion, extension, pronation, and supination. The person undergoes the same test and evaluation at each of three working heights: (1) elbow height, (2) overhead height, and (3) knee height, providing a functional assessment of dexterity and range of motion of the person's entire musculoskeletal system. The lifting ability testing includes both an upper body lifting evaluation (to shoulder height) and a lower body lifting evaluation (to carry height). Each of the two evaluations is tested independently.

Abstract: A toy figure having disassembleable appendages attached thereto. The figure includes a body member that has a plurality of receptacles therein adapted to removably receive therein extended connection members that are attached to the appendages. Each extended member preferably has a cross-sectional shape, number, and color that differs from the cross-sectional shapes, numbers, and colors of the other extended members. Each receptacle is configured to receive at least one of the extended members therein and is also preferably provided with a number and color that corresponds to the number and color of the extended member that is adapted to be received therein. Each appendage is also preferably provided with shape, number, and color indicators that serve to identify the cross-sectional shape, number, and color of the extended member that is attached thereto.

Abstract: A teaching toy (8) includes at least one receptacle (12). Receptacle (12) has a conductive signal-out pad and a plurality of conductive code-in pads (46) at an inner surface. At least one remote unit (14) is included which is removable from receptacle (12). Remote unit (14) has multiple sides and a conductive signal-in pad for capacitive coupling to the signal-out pad. Remote unit (14) also has at least one conductive code-out pad (50) electrically connected to the signal-in pad for capacitive coupling to one of the code-in pads (46). The signal-in pad and the code-out pad (50) are disposed on a first side of unit (14). Remote unit (14) also has a datum disposed on a second side. A processor (20) is included for generating a control signal to the signal-out pad and detecting data signals from the code-in pads (46). Processor (20) associates the data signals with and generates data representing the datum. A memory (22) is included which stores instructions for operating processor (20).

Abstract: A simple puzzle toy designed for the amusement of primates and enrichment of their environment. The device of the preferred embodiment is a sphere having a plurality of holes. Pellets of food or other substances attractive to the primate are placed inside the device. The dimensions the holes are such that the pellets will pass through the holes in certain orientations and will not pass through the holes in other orientations, or such that it will have corners or edges of food and treats too large to be retrieved whole to be chewed until the food is small enough to be aligned with the opening and be removed in its entirety. Arrangement of the pellets, or reduction in size of the pellets by chewing, provides the device's amusement and environmental enrichment value.

Abstract: A shape-matching snap-action toy includes a generally cylindrical domed housing formed of a transparent material and having an exit opening defined therein. A plurality of geometrically shaped apertures are formed in the upper portion of the housing and receive correspondingly spaced geometric objects for deposit within the housing interior. A center column supports a rotatable floor within the housing and a spring-biased push button drive mechanism. The drive mechanism includes a helical rod which engages the rotatable center column each time the push button is depressed rotating the center column and floor causing geometric objects within the housing interior to be erratically bounced about the housing interior until randomly thrown outwardly from the housing through an opening formed in the housing wall.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for the testing and evaluating of a person's dexterity, range of motion, and dynamic lifting ability. The dexterity testing includes methods which can evaluate the wrist and hand range of motion by requiring the person to move his wrist through the normal range of motions, including flexion, extension, pronation, and supination. The person undergoes the same test and evaluation at each of three working heights: (1) elbow height, (2) overhead height, and (3) knee height, providing a functional assessment of dexterity and range of motion of the person's entire musculoskeletal system. The lifting ability testing includes both an upper body lifting evaluation (to shoulder height) and a lower body lifting evaluation (to carry height). Each of the two evaluations is tested independently.

Abstract: A panel piece combination toy includes a panel piece having a predetermined shape and a base plate having a fitting hole into which the piece panel is fitted. The panel piece has a sound generating device built in the panel piece.

Abstract: An athletic exercise device and method for improving an athlete's reflexes may include cushioned arms that are moved laterally toward the athlete so that the athlete must move to avoid the arms. In certain body contact sports, such as boxing and karate, athletes with improved reflexes to avoid blows have an advantage. By selectively moving the arms of the present invention toward the athlete and thereby training the athlete to avoid being struck by the arms, the reflexes for such sports may be improved. The arms may extend through slots in a vertical backboard and be moved by a trainer positioned behind the backboard. Elastic cord may be provided to retract the arms away from the athlete and the backboard may be mobile to enhance training effectiveness.

Abstract: Children's building blocks that can be attached to each other in numerous combinations by integrally molded connectors located on the faces of the blocks. Some of the faces have apertures and these faces may be joined together to create tunnels between the interiors of two adjacent blocks. Doors are also provided to selectively cover the apertures. Faces having apertures may be connected to faces without apertures for the child to distinguish between an open connection and a closed connection.

Abstract: A sorting device including an open top container with an invertible sorting member mounted thereover. The sorting member includes multiple funnel-shaped passages therethrough each having, at one end, an enlarged opening and at the second truncated end a specifically configured opening of a size to closely receive and pass therethrough only a correspondingly configured block introduced in either direction through the configured opening.

Abstract: A test kit for performing a diagnostic procedure. The kit comprises a plastic base which has an upper surface. The base is formed from a plastic material and a plurality of upwardly opening nests are provided in the upper surface of the base. A test component is provided in each of the nests in a manner such that the components may be displayed and made available for use. The test components are preferably displayed in essentially the plane of the upper surface of the base and an instruction booklet is provided so as to overlie the test components at the beginning of the procedure. The arrangement of the components and the size and shape of the pages of the booklet are such that as the user follows the instructions and turns pages in the booklet, components remain hidden from view until needed in conducting the procedure. The pages of the booklet are progressively shorter from front to back in the booklet so that as the pages are turned components of the kit come into view as needed.

Abstract: A device for testing the manipulative skills of a person suspected of having neurological damage including manipulative devices (6, 16, 18) for measuring small motor skills and a device (10) to record the movement generated.

Abstract: The system consists of a board with sockets and an assortment of tetrahedral pegs having a regular obverse face and a reverse side in the form of a triangular shank that inserts to a matching fit in one of the sockets. When the pegs are inserted into the board or first element the adjacent faces of the pegs make contact so that no gaps exist between adjoining edges. Each of the faces, or a part of each face, if divided into more than one field, is uniformly tinted in one of a set of repeatable colors or polychrome or monochrome shadings.

Abstract: A toy vehicle constructed as a shape identification toy, wherein the toy vehicle comprises a plurality of components which interconnect due to a shaped member being provided on one of the plurality of components co-operating with a corresponding shaped member provided on another of the plurality of components.

Abstract: A toy including a three-dimensional base having a magnetic sheet on its rearward side for temporary attachment to a metallic surface. The frontal surface of the base defines plural recesses each for the reception of a correspondingly shaped magnetic piece. The pieces each have a magnetic component for retention on a metallic surface when removed from base recess. When in place in a base recess, the magnetic components of the base and piece retain the latter in place. The pieces and their recess walls may be color coded to teach color recognition. A recess wall surface is provided with an image which differs from the image on other recess wall surfaces.

Abstract: An improved interconnecting toy which, through its various uses, provides various educational experiences to the user and which comprises a game piece (1) with joined tubular members comprised of connective ends; and which comprises a game piece (2) with joined tubular member comprised of connective ends. The connective ends may be of the male or female type (7 and 6 respectively). The tubular members may be circumferentially configured in any geometric shape, and may consist of any variety of colors; and the tubular members may be imprinted or decalled with numeric, alphabetic, or logo-type designations, all of which enhance the educational experience that results from use of the invention.

Abstract: A fabricated toy is equipped with a plurality of toy component members having predetermined shapes, a detecting device for detecting the assembly state of these toy component members, and a sound generating device for emitting sounds in accordance with the assembly state of the toy component members detected by the detecting device so that when the toy component members are correctly assembled, a specific shape is completed. In this fabricated toy, the sound generating device generates the sounds of mutually different kinds in the cases where the toy component members are correctly assembled and incorrectly. Infants, therefore, can play at the assembly of the toy for a long period of time, without losing their interest in the toy, and the toy, which is "a horse" or "a frog", can also serve as educational stuff for assembling correctly the toy into the shape of the animal.

Abstract: A child's association game is set forth to test and develop a child's coordination and association of geometric shapes and colorations wherein a first series of locked boxes, as positioned on a toy truck, contain a like series of secondary boxes which in turn are locked at each of six sides to contain six spheres within separate boxes therein. A respective first, second, and third series of keys of varying colorations are utilized to respectively unlock the first series of locked boxes, secondary boxes, and spheres. The keys and respective boxes and spheres are coordinated by like coloration and key configuration.

Abstract: A toy adapted to instruct young children by association. The toy teaches proper numeric, alphabetic, or color sequences and the standard left to right reading convention, by utilizing blocks that are inserted into shafts in a stand. Blocks inserted out of proper sequence will fall through the stand but passage of blocks inserted in the proper sequence will be obstructed and those blocks will not fall through but will remain supported within the stand.

Abstract: A game or training device for developing manual dexterity of the sense of touch of individuals, particularly sightless individuals which comprises a hollow container having two open opposed ends with a partition interposed, said partition having apertures matching the shape of blocks which the user touches and manipulates through the apertures without the use of eyesight.

Abstract: A reusable pinata for dispensing tokens or object that have a predetermined configuration to fit cavities in boards. The objects are dispensed when strings are pulled that open the closure members that are pivotally mounted to the bottom of a hollow container. The container is suspended from a stand assembly that includes a base, an upwardly extending pole member and an arm member that is substantially perpendicular to the pole member. A timer is mounted to the pole member.