Design Formed Of Identical Or Complementary Elements Patents (Class 434/96)
  • Patent number: 11958658
    Abstract: Flat packaging and packaging methods for sheet products. The sheet includes interconnected panels including a first cover panel comprising a first surface printed with information and/or images related to a product and one or more product panels, each product panel comprising one or more product components comprising the entire panels or configured to be removed from the product panels for use as the product. The cover panel and product panels are connected by fold lines between the panels the panels are configured to form a stacked formation when folded at the fold lines with the first surface of the first panel facing outward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Inventor: Joel Orrie Morris
  • Patent number: 11891813
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cuttable cladding panel with a matching pattern, the use, and the design method thereof. The cladding panel comprises an irregular pattern (10) of elongated lines, veins, and/or strips; transverse cutting lines (20) all of them cutting through the pattern at identical transverse intersecting points symmetrical with respect to a longitudinal axis of symmetry (SL); pairs of longitudinal cutting lines (30) symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis of symmetry (SL), each pair of longitudinal cutting lines cutting through the pattern at identical longitudinal intersecting points; with said cutting lines crossing one another at corner points (P); wherein each transverse intersecting point (21) is at the same distance from a corner point (P) as a corresponding longitudinal intersecting point (31); with two parts obtained by cutting the cladding panel (1) along any cutting line having a matching and continuous irregular pattern (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Inventors: Francisco Sanchis Brines, Arturo del Saz Salazar
  • Patent number: 10272352
    Abstract: A toy construction craft utilizing construction elements including modular building blocks comprises a base plate, template, one or more graphic segments, and an optional frame. The base plate is a substantially planar building surface arranged with coupling studs for being interconnected with toy building elements having complementary coupling means. The template is configured with at least one area of guidance indicia including at least numeral designation; each guidance indicia is viewed to inform the user as to the modular block(s) that should be attached to that particular stud. These designated blocks form the 3-D portion of the composition, while the graphic segment(s) augments the overall composition. The template may be a separate sheet disposed below the base plate or may be incorporated into the base plate. Additional accessories and specialized blocks are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Inventor: Margo Sheryl Chazen
  • Publication number: 20150140519
    Abstract: Method and system for combined computerized and human experts aided outfit selection are provided herein. The method may include the following steps: presenting questions and receiving answers from users over the at least one user terminal, wherein the answers are indicative of fashion preference of the users; storing user profile data and their respective fashion preferences based on the answers; enabling expert users to generate, over expert terminals, for a giver user profile, an outfit, wherein the generated outfit is selected from a plurality of outfit items stored on a database; monitoring the generating of the outfits by the expert users, to yield monitoring data; storing match data indicating of match between user profiles and generated outfits, based on the monitoring data; and dispatching an outfit to the at least one user, based on fashion preference of the user, a respective user profile, and the match data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Applicant: STYLIT TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventors: Michael GUTKIN, Yaniv NISSIM, Shilo Ayalon
  • Patent number: 8827711
    Abstract: An arrangement device is disclosed. The arrangement device includes a tray portion having a body that forms a plurality of passages. The arrangement device also includes a plurality of pattern adjustment plungers movably-secured to the tray portion within the plurality of passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Provo Craft and Novelty, Inc.
    Inventors: James T. Davis, II, Jared Burton, Rebecca Sego, Jeffrey V. Gubler, Randall J. Benson
  • Patent number: 8608476
    Abstract: A kit by which a fabric mosaic may be assembled comprising a template, fabric pieces, and stylus. The fabric pieces are secured to the template by inserting portions of the fabric pieces into opening where they are secured by an interference fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Steven Kay
  • Patent number: 8431059
    Abstract: A mosaic-style art kit is provided. The art kit includes a frame, modeling material, and a guide sheet. The frame includes a peripheral surface operably configured to overlie the guide sheet, and a mosaic-style internal structure having partitions forming cavities for receiving and retaining the modeling material. A front side of the frame is placed on the guide sheet such that the mosaic-style internal structure is aligned with a design on the guide sheet. The design thereby instructs a color of modeling material to be inserted into each cavity of the internal structure. The modeling material is inserted accordingly, and the frame and guide sheet are separated to produce a mosaic-style art product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Crayola LLC
    Inventors: Steve Menow, Anthony Wyzen
  • Patent number: 7793936
    Abstract: The present invention, referred to as DRAW FOR BATTLE, is a strategic dueling card game, combining an art instructional component as part of interactive card game play. Players must first draw the characters chosen from the PRIMARY DECK during game play before placing them onto the battlefield for combat through assigned numerical STRENGTH levels and SMARTS levels. The game includes a PRIMARY DECK, which itself includes ADD cards, DRAW cards, MORPH cards, and WILD cards, and the THINK DECK, which describes an intellectual way of defeating the brute through various THINK cards, and if it was successful or not. The BATTLE CARD TABLET is a set of preprinted oversized cards, with a grid pattern for guidance during drawing, in tablet form to create battle cards. The MASTER DECK is a series of oversized cards that provide the basic instructions for illustrating the characters and their back-story.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Anthony Carmine Caputo
  • Publication number: 20100119999
    Abstract: A teaching system for the perception enhancement of a user provides pairs of objects for visual and tactile comparison wherein the selection of paired objects provide a significant starting point for the construction of extended teaching aides, tactile forms and systems. The present invention may be combined with a range of text associated with paired forms, and includes a range of contrasting terms and synonyms generally associated with the contrasting and complementary nature of the paired forms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: Elizabeth A. Hollywood-Tuck
  • Publication number: 20100032898
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a picture puzzle kit for enabling a user to color a picture puzzle using symbols representing different colors. The picture puzzle kit comprises puzzle pieces and a color chart. The puzzle pieces, made of plastic, cardboard, or a wooden material, comprise portions of a picture and symbols corresponding to different colors. The picture may be of different designs. The color chart displays different colors with corresponding symbols for the colors. The picture puzzle kit may further comprise a base for supporting the puzzle pieces. The puzzle pieces may be linked to assemble the picture. The puzzle pieces may be linked by interlocking the puzzle pieces or by placing the puzzle pieces adjacent to one another. The picture puzzle kit may further comprise coloring tools to enable the user to color the puzzle pieces using symbols representing the different colors displayed on the color chart.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2008
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: Anita Jane Gearty
  • Publication number: 20100032899
    Abstract: A picture puzzle kit is provided for coloring a picture puzzle marked with indicia corresponding to multiple colors. The picture puzzle kit comprises puzzle pieces, color charts, and coloring tools. The puzzle pieces comprise parts of a picture and are marked with indicia corresponding to different colors. The color charts display colors corresponding to the indicia marked on the puzzle pieces. In an embodiment, multiple removable layers are stacked one above the other on each of the puzzle pieces. In another embodiment, an embedded audio assembly is provided in each of the puzzle pieces and the color charts for audibly indicating characteristics of the puzzle pieces and the color charts respectively. The puzzle pieces are linked to assemble the picture puzzle. The coloring tools enable the user to color the puzzle pieces using the colors displayed on the color charts corresponding to the indicia marked on the puzzle pieces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: Anita Jane Gearty
  • Publication number: 20080227059
    Abstract: Disclosed are educational straws having an end portion of a defined shape and the name of said shape displayed on the exterior body of the straw thereby instilling a cognitive recognition of a sequence of letters associated with the shape which will enhance vocabulary, spelling and object spatial recognition for a plurality of defined shapes
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventor: Jong Hak Choi
  • Patent number: 7390237
    Abstract: A learning toy includes a board assembly having a plurality of perforations, and at least one toy element provided with a stud member for insertion into one of the perforations so as to attach the toy element onto the board assembly. The board assembly includes a base and a face panel removably superposed on the base, the base being formed with a plurality of perforations extending through the thickness of the base, and the face panel being formed with a plurality of perforations respectively aligned with the perforations of the base. A plurality of toy elements may be provided, the heads of the toy elements being embodied in various forms and configurations so that a variety of games may be played on the board assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Wen-Pin Lin
  • Publication number: 20080131865
    Abstract: Provided are cubes from which composite structures may be produced. Composite structures constructed from a plurality of cubes according to the invention are useful as an instructional aid to students for enabling them to readily visualize front perspective, end perspective, and overhead perspective views of complex geometrical shapes. Visualization of such perspective views enables students to more readily produce drawings of such perspective views in paper renditions of such views, and exercises the three-dimensional thinking centers of the brain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2007
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Inventor: James Ernest
  • Patent number: 6898883
    Abstract: A preferred artistic medium comprises a first translucent sheet having at least one first image presented thereon, a second translucent sheet having a least one second image presented thereon, the second image being substantially identical to the first image, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first and second sheets is textured in a substantially uncolored area of the image, and wherein the first and second sheets are positioned in proximity to one another and in a relative orientation such that the first and second images are in substantial registration with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Zod's Art LLC
    Inventor: Paul Bramer
  • Patent number: 6800012
    Abstract: An image generating apparatus includes a pigment sheet having an array of translucent pigment clusters, each pigment cluster being formed of a number of pigment regions, each pigment region containing an individual pigment differing in radiated color from that of a pigment in another pigment region within the pigment cluster; an image display board perforated by an array of light transmission member wells and positioned above the pigment sheet so that the member wells are located over and substantially register with a corresponding pigment cluster; a number of translucent light transmission members, each light transmission member being mounted within one of the member wells so that each light transmission member is movable within its corresponding member well relative to the pigment sheet to any one of various light transmission member positions to selectively receive a selected radiated color from one of the pigment regions; and at least one artificial light source mounted below the pigment sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventor: John G. Maxim
  • Publication number: 20040072137
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method teaches a user to evaluate a gemstone, such as a cut diamond. The method includes providing a computer system connected to an apparatus capable of capturing an image of a gemstone. The computer system is arranged to process a received image of a gemstone to determine one or more optical properties of the gemstone. In one aspect, the method presents on a display of the computer system a series of pre-stored screens comprising a graphical representation how the cut of a gemstone affects its light handling ability, and a user interface screen. The user interface screen allows the user to control the operation of the apparatus to measure the one or more optical properties of a particular gemstone provided to the apparatus, to view an image of the gemstone measured, and to view representations of the measured one or more optical properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Davy Lapa, Christian Lenaerts
  • Patent number: 6705867
    Abstract: The present invention relates to closed three-dimensional needlepoint canvases. Each of the canvases of the present invention is made from two interconnectable perforated shells. In various embodiments, interchangeable shells of different shapes are provided which can be connected together to form three-dimensional canvases in a variety shapes and sizes. In certain embodiments the shells have mechanically interlocking bases for easy detachment without external clips. The invention also provides craft kits containing the three-dimensional needlepoint canvases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Uniek, Inc.
    Inventors: Jamieson A. Foght, Christopher R. Carlson, Carole L. Rodgers
  • Publication number: 20040002038
    Abstract: An educational kit for use in teaching children shapes, colors and to exercise creativity. The kit comprises a backboard of a magnetically attractable material, at least one sheet of stencils, at least one sheet of a flexible magnetic material, at least one sheet of a laminating material, coloring implements and a set of graphical instructions. The child can use the stencil sheet to draw a figure or design on to the sheet of magnetic material and then use the coloring implements to color in that design or figure, thus learning shapes as well as colors and coloring techniques. After the design or figure is completed, it can be cut out of the magnetic sheet and laminated by use of the laminating sheets to protect that design or figure. Thus, the completed design or figure can then be affixed magnetically to the backboard so that the child can show off the completed product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Publication date: January 1, 2004
    Inventors: Ann B. Leather, Andrea P. Robinson
  • Patent number: 6464501
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a new and useful learning system. A computer-based system permits a user to create and manipulate basic elements within an environment. The system then represents relationships within the environment. The system and user cooperate to provide a learning opportunity for the user. As the user makes or reviews changes of basic elements, he or she can learn how different aspects of an element affect the overall interactions. Two specific embodiments are disclosed. In a first embodiment, the system is used for exploring geometric patterns. The basic elements are tiles which are formed and manipulated through operations of geometric symmetry. The tiles can be combined into different repeating patterns. Multiple tiles can be used within a pattern. Also, new tiles can be created from portions of the pattern. Thus through simple interactions using basic operations and simple parts, complex effects emerge. In other embodiments, the system is used for exploring sociodynamics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Carol Strohecker, Edith Ackermann, Aseem Agarwala
  • Publication number: 20020061497
    Abstract: The invention consists of a cutting system comprising a hot wire cutter which is removably wired to table upon which a spindle is mounted for containing a script template in compartments, one for each letter. The template is color coded, with one color being for letters of each of at least two separate forms (one being capitalized and one being small). Other coded letters include those letters for joining on the right and those for joining on the left, it being a part of this invention that the letters of the template would interlock, locking on the left, the right or both and having color coding of each letter in order to simplify selection. The color coding and organization system also is for a template or set of characters equipped with connecting means in order that the set can be used to make forms to cut to order script names or words.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Inventors: Linda G. Boudreaux, Rodney G. Boudreaux
  • Patent number: 6309716
    Abstract: Sets of tessellatable elements are disclosed, in which a relatively low number of different elements may be combined together to provide very attractive tessellating patterns. The elements may be in the form of tiles, for paving or for covering flooring or walls, for example, game pieces, including television and computer games, pieces for use in maze construction and for many other applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Inventors: Adrian Fisher, Edward Taylor Pegg, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6273979
    Abstract: A method for making a combination mosaic and collage. A sketched composite picture or decorative design on museum board, sealed wood surface, or a flat primer painted surface is made. A combination of overlapped pasted fragmented, photographic pieces is fixed on paper. The combination is then copied on a color copier machine. The resulting material is then fragmented, pasted and set into the sketched composite picture or decorative design. A collage is then assembled or fixed onto the mosaic's composite picture or decorative design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Ester E. Lastoria
  • Patent number: 6176704
    Abstract: A learning toy based upon the concept of design or pattern formation is disclosed. The toy is comprised of a tray having a transparent bottom and a plurality of blocks which are arrangeable in the tray to form a design or pattern. Each block is painted with a primary color on four of its surfaces while the fifth surface of the block is painted with two of the primary colors with the boundary therebetween being on a diagonal across the surface of the block and the sixth surface of the block is painted with the other two primary colors with the boundary therebetween being on a diagonal across the surface of the block. When the blocks are arranged in the tray to form a design or pattern, a juxtaposition of dark and light colors is created on the top surface of the blocks and an “opposite” design or pattern is formed on the bottom surfaces of the blocks which can be viewed through the transparent bottom surface of the tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2001
    Inventor: Thomas W. Gilbert
  • Patent number: 6106299
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a new and useful learning system. A compr-based system permits a user to create and manipulate basic elements within an environment. The system then represents relationships within the environment. The system and user cooperate to provide a learning opportunity for the user. As the user makes or reviews changes of basic elements, he or she can learn how different aspects of an element affect the overall interactions. Two specific embodiments are disclosed. In a first embodiment, the system is used for exploring geometric patterns. The basic elements are tiles which are formed and manipulated through operations of geometric symmetry. The tiles can be combined into different repeating patterns. Multiple tiles can be used within a pattern. Also, new tiles can be created from portions of the pattern. Thus through simple interactions using basic operations and simple parts, complex effects emerge. In a second embodiment, the system is used for exploring a sociodynamic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Information Technology Center America, Inc. (ITA)
    Inventors: Edith Ackermann, Carol Strohecker, Aseem Agarwala
  • Patent number: 6032393
    Abstract: An image generating board apparatus is provided, including an image display board having an array of peg ports, pegs formed of translucent and colorless material rotatably fitted into each of at least two of the peg ports, each peg having a peg distal end which is substantially planar and is fitted with a polarized film section, and each peg having a peg proximal end, a light source adjacent to the display board and to the peg distal ends, a polarized film sheet mounted to extend between the light source and the peg distal ends and with its polarization axis angled relative to the polarization axis of the film sheet, and a tape sheet mounted to pass between the film sheet and the peg distal ends, so that light from the light source shines through the film sheet, through the tape sheet, and through the film sections at the peg distal ends and isolates and selectively passes into each peg an isolated wavelength of visible light from the light source, the isolated wavelength illuminating each peg with a color co
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: John G. Maxim
  • Patent number: 5971762
    Abstract: The present invention is a book having (a) a front cover, a back cover and a spline, forming an outer portion of a book; (b) a plurality of pages affixed within the outer portion of the book and containing a plurality of words constituting a text; (c) at least one page being a three-dimensional hollow frame structure with its front being at least partially made of see-through material. The frame structure is divided into an upper section and a lower section, separated by a wall having at least one connecting orifice, and containing a trap mechanism at each of said at the connecting orifice, and including a lever functionally connected to the trap mechanism. There is also a plurality of bead-like structures contained within the upper section of said frame structure, having a sufficient shape and size to flow via gravity through the connecting orifice of the upper section to the lower section when a user actuates the lever with the book in a substantially upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventors: Paul A. McKenna, Catherine L. Lipton
  • Patent number: 5924870
    Abstract: The creation of computer generated lenticular images involves the computer manipulation of at least a first and second image. The images can be sequential in time of the same object or sequential in spatial perspective, or completely unrelated. The images are scanned into a computer memory and then digitally interlaced. The input can be any source of image. Likewise, the output can be manipulated to any resolution. The output interlaced image is then printed onto a substrate, such as the back surface of a lenticular lens. The resolution of the interlaced image can be matched to the geometry of the lenticules. Thus, the viewer will see the first image from a first viewing perspective and the second image from a second viewing perspective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: Digillax Systems
    Inventors: Scott Brosh, Phil Gottfried
  • Patent number: 5704789
    Abstract: A bead drawing kit includes a plurality of beads and a drawing board. A bead setting tool having a container for holding a supply of beads and having a push rod for ejecting the beads may be used to set beads on the drawing board. The drawing board includes a base member, a holding plate, a positioning plate and a base cover. The base member has a looped upright surrounding wall and a horizontal base plate disposed in the surrounding wall. The base plate has a periphery connected to the surrounding wall and is formed with a plurality of lower holes that are arranged in rows and columns for passage of the beads therethrough. The holding plate is made of a resilient material and is provided on the base plate. The holding plate is formed with a plurality of slits, each of which is aligned with a respective one of the lower holes in the base plate and forms at least two resilient fins on the holding plate for holding releasably one of the beads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Chie-Te Yang
  • Patent number: 5695346
    Abstract: An efficient economical process is provided to produce an impressive display with outstanding marketing and advertising appeal. In the process, multiple images are formed, such as on a central processing unit, the images are striped or manipulated, eliminating rows of pixels and replacing them with pixels from other images, and portions thereof are superimposed. The superimposed images can be printed on a viewable surface of the display. A lenticular lens, fresnel lenticular lens plate, lens with a textured surface, plate lens, ultraviolet cured resinous lens, lens with an undercut, cluster of anamorphic lenses, transparent rods, or grid, can be placed in front of the images to provide a special display which has the illusion of animation, morphing or movement as the angle of sight changes. The images can also be printed directly on the back surface of the lens to provide self-contained lenticular graphics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Assignee: Yoshi Sekiguchi
    Inventors: Yoshi Sekiguchi, Risa Sekiguchi Vuillemot, Chika Sekiguchi, Juri Sekiguchi
  • Patent number: 5634996
    Abstract: The method of adhering studs to the cloth includes the step of providing a plurality of flat, aluminum studs having predetermined shapes. The backside surface of each stud is covered with a low temperature, heat sensitive adhesive. Also, a predetermined stud pattern is provided. The method includes laying the stud pattern atop the cloth. The stud pattern is then replicated on the cloth by marking the cloth. A corresponding stud is placed on each respective cloth mark. Thereafter, compressive force and heat, in the range of 130.degree.-150.degree. F., is applied to the studs and the cloth for a predetermined period of time. The heat activates the adhesive and adheres the studs to the cloth. The kit includes a plurality of studs with the heat sensitive adhesive on the backs thereof. Also, a plurality of stud patterns are included in the kit. A studed article of clothing made in accordance with the method of manufacture, is also part of this invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Inventor: Kathryn A. Lewis
  • Patent number: 5494445
    Abstract: An efficient economical process is provided to produce an intricate impressive display with outstanding marketing and advertising appeal. In the process, multiple images are formed, such as on a central processing unit, the images are masked and striped, and portions thereof are superimposed. The superimposed masked images can be printed on an underlying back rearward web. Transparent rods, a plate lens, lenticular lens, a cluster of anamorphic lenses, or a grid, can be placed front of the back web to provide a special display which has the illusion of animation as the angle of sight changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Assignee: Yoshi Sekiguchi
    Inventors: Yoshi Sekiguchi, Risa S. Vuillemot, Chika Sekiguchi, Juri Sekiguchi
  • Patent number: 5352120
    Abstract: Decorative beads are applied to a selected substrate, such as an article of clothing, in a pre-determined arrangement, utilizing a rod-like skewer and a folding chart or guide having a mirror image of the predetermined pattern printed thereon. The process for applying the decorative beads involves the steps of first placing the clothing article over a flat rigid surface such as a painting board and flattening the clothing fabric without unduly stretching it. The chart is placed over the clothing article so that the mirror image pattern is placed directly over the location where the beads are to be applied. The chart is folded back to expose a row of the pattern indicia, and beads corresponding to the pattern indicia are placed onto the skewer. Glue is applied to the clothing article adjacent to the row of pattern indicia, and then the row of beads on the skewer are brought into contact with the glue and aligned with the chart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Inventor: Perry Hambright
  • Patent number: 5348478
    Abstract: A modular terrain board is provided having a plurality of sections or terrain cell plugs which are held in place by a baseboard assembly having a corresponding plurality of cell receiving sections or cells formed therein. The terrain cell plugs can be easily removed to allow for quick and accurate reconfiguration of the terrain model. The terrain board has means for representing buildings, rivers, lakes, roads, and other topographical features.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Inventor: Micheal Bradshaw
  • Patent number: 5324224
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a hollow globe including a plurality of apertures which are formed substantially throughout the entire surface of the globe. Formed within the globe and disposed in laminar juxtaposition to the interior surface of the globe's sphere, a bladder means is formed of an opaque flexible material. A plurality of cross slits are formed on the bladder in substantial alignment with the globe's surface. An internal light source is disposed within said bladder at approximately the midpoint of the globe's sphere, and a plurality of luminescent pegs are provided for insertion into the apertures formed in the globe's surface. The present invention provides the user with the plurality of luminescent, differently colored pegs to design a picture or art form. The present invention may additionally serve as a night light and the luminescent pegs may be specially adapted to project light from the interior of the globe's surface to the exterior of the globe and onto surrounding walls and ceilings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Inventors: Richard H. Anderson, Robert R. Anderson, Richard R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5292255
    Abstract: A kit and method for making beaded pictures whereby a base card is impressed and printed with the outline of a picture. An adhesive is applied to the base card along the imprinted outline and strings of beads are applied thereto to outline sections of the picture. Adhesive is thereafter spread over the bead outlined areas and beads are placed thereon until the entire picture surface is beaded. The completed picture is coated with a film of transparent glue to preserve the beading. The size of bead and type of bead can be varied such that kits suitable for use by all ages and levels of skill are possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Inventor: Solomon P. Goldwasser
  • Patent number: 5269691
    Abstract: A sticker book having at least three sheets. Each sheet is double-sided and can be folded at its center to form twelve pages. One sheet is printed on both sides with colored scenes forming four scene pages on which stickers may be placed. The remaining two sheets each contain, on one side thereof, two pages of die-cut stickers, each page corresponding to a scene page. On the other sides of such remaining sheets are printed instructional pages in black and white, showing how the stickers can be placed on the scene pages. The instructional pages have a surface adapted to be colored. On assembly, the scene sheet is sandwiched between the sticker/instructional sheets and the three sheets are folded to form at least a twelve-page combined sticker activity and coloring book which can be used both to entertain and to teach a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Assignee: Marnlen Management Ltd.
    Inventor: Sandra Waldman
  • Patent number: 5267863
    Abstract: Interlocking blocks are configured to serve as basic picture elements and beams ("pixels and sticks") for creating a variety of two- and three-dimensional graphic artifacts. The pixel blocks have a substantially square cross-section and may be made in cubes or in beams of various length. The four sides of the square cross-section are made identical, each side defining a tongue alongside a groove in a symmetrical complementary configuration such that adjacent blocks can be slidingly interlocked together to form one- and two-dimensional arrays; thus cubes, or blocks of uniform length, can form two-dimensional artifacts and blocks of various lengths can form three-dimensional artifacts. By utilizing the blocks in a variety of visual properties such as color and light transmission, quantities of the blocks and/or beams may be interlocked together to form pictures, graphics patterns, and other artifacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1993
    Inventor: Felix J. Simmons, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5234340
    Abstract: A handicraft guide is provided for locating in a specific array a plurality of members such as sequins, on a surface such as a layer of fabric. A thin sheet material has inscribed thereon a pattern which is to be reproduced as a design on the mounting surface. The pattern is made up of rows of symbols which indicate proper placement of the members onto the mounting surface. Separating lines run between adjacent rows, permitting each row of symbols to be peeled away from the mounting base to expose the edge of a next adjacent row of symbols. Each symbol corresponds to a specific member that is to be fixedly mounted onto the mounting base directly adjacent the symbol. In utilizing the handicraft guide, a member is fixed to the mounting base adjacent to each symbol provided on the first row of the guide. That first row is peeled away and the process is repeated for the second row and so forth until the desired design has been reproduced. The guide is then removed from the mounting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1993
    Inventor: Perry N. Hambright
  • Patent number: 5219289
    Abstract: A mathematical teaching aid or game comprising a background grid having components and subcomponents each positioned within individual cells of the grid so that many mathematical arrangements and concepts can be displayed. Each component has a face color from a set of colors and contains on its face the outline of a geometric shape from a set of geometric shapes. Each component represents a unique pairing of color and shape outline. Each subcomponent has a shape congruent to the shape outline from the set of shapes and matches exactly one component with respect to color and shape outline. The components are mounted upon the grid cells and the subcomponents can be mounted upon either a grid cell or upon a corresponding shape outline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Inventor: Patricia K. Derr
  • Patent number: 5213505
    Abstract: A device for creating a colored design including transparent light-transmitting receiving wells for receiving and holding colorants, the wells being disposed in a grid-like plate adapted to hold the wells. The device also including a colorant material transfer device for transferring colorant material to the receiving wells. The colorant materials may be liquid or solid materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Inventor: Thomas C. Laipply
  • Patent number: 5184957
    Abstract: A needlepoint graph has adjoining rows of ellipses to be marked as a pattern for the designation of traditional continental needlepoint stitches required in a needlepoint canvas to reproduce the pattern on the graph.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1993
    Inventor: Nancy A. Claytor
  • Patent number: 5174757
    Abstract: An interactive sculptural composition comprising a support member and at least one design member matingly attached thereto. The support member defines a plurality of parallel channels and possesses a multiplicity of projections arranged into rows parallel to the channels with at least one row of projections being present between each adjacent channel. The design member is matingly attached to the support member by either: (1) inserting at least one of the projections of the support member through a hole in the design member or (2) inserting a first edge of the design member into a first channel of the support member and inserting a second edge of the design member into a second, adjacent channel of the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1992
    Assignee: Delaware Art Museum
    Inventor: Lial A. Jones
  • Patent number: 5106305
    Abstract: The kit comprises a base sheet (2) carrying a predetermined outline or "graphic grid", a plurality of filling elements such as pieces of adhesively backed colored diffraction foil for fitting in different areas (R, B, E) of the outline, and an overlay sheet of transparent material which carries correspondingly outlined clear areas separated by opaque (preferably black) areas. The superimposition of the overlay sheet over the color filled base sheet produces a finished picture in which the colors are highlighted by the surrounding black areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Inventor: Michael Grant
  • Patent number: 5096422
    Abstract: A handicraft guide for locating a plurality of members on a surface, such as a layer of fabric, which utilizes a sheet material upon which has been inscribed a pattern to be reproduced as a design on the mounting surface. This mirror image pattern is made up of rows of symbols and is to be placed directly against the mounting surface. This guide is to be folded over upon itself sequentially exposing rows of symbols with each symbol to correspond to a specific member that is to be fixedly mounted on the mounting base directly adjacent the symbol. When there is placed on the mounting base a member for each symbol, there will be reproduced the desired design. The guide is then to be removed from the mounting base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Inventor: Perry N. Hambright
  • Patent number: 5011411
    Abstract: This invention is a method making a non-repetitive modular design. The design is created by assembling a plurality of substantially identical modules to cover a surface. Each module has the shape of a polygon, especially a regular polygon, such as a square. The design of each module is created in the following manner. First, one selects a set of points, disposed symmetrically around the midpoint of a side of the polygon, and duplicates the same pattern of points for the remaining sides. Then, one connects every pair of points with a line, such that the lines so drawn form a pattern which is not symmetrical around any imaginary straight line joining any pair of vertices of the polygon. The spaces between lines, or between one or more lines and one or more sides of the polygon, can be filled in with a color, or with any other design element. To make the final design, one provides a plurality of such modules, and arranges them, with random orientations, to cover a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1991
    Inventor: Andreas F. Loewy
  • Patent number: 4995813
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 26, 1991
    Inventor: Corrado Francioni
  • Patent number: 4993984
    Abstract: A discretionary mosaic art kit which comprises a support board arranged so as to selectively accommodate individual pieces of design creating elements at a selected location on said board, and a plurality of design creating elements in the form of an equilateral triangle, each adapted to be fixed to said board at a selected location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Inventor: Anthony G. R. Matarese
  • Patent number: 4986756
    Abstract: An artistic toy for producing a desired design, figure or picture includes a support with cells and a plurality of blocks to be mounted in the cells. Once mounted in the cells, the blocks are firmly held therein. The toy further includes a block remover which enables the blocks to be readily removed, one by one, from the cells no matter how the blocks are located relative to one another. Another artistic toy includes (i) a holding plate which can be connected to a support to hold blocks from above, (ii) means for standing an assembled toy of the support, blocks and the holding plate on a flat surface, and (iii) means for hanging the assembled toy on a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 22, 1991
    Assignee: Nichigan Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Naoki Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 4978301
    Abstract: A construction set suitable and safe for children of various ages comprising construction pieces and connector strips. The construction pieces have a semirigid planar construction with opposing major sides which have hook fastener material disposed on one side and loop pile fastener material disposed on the other. The fastener materials are of the type which adhere when pressed together. An outer border or margin area of the construction pieces is kept free of the fastener materials, to provide a tab or hem for separating attached pieces. The construction pieces have various shapes and sizes with which many designs and structures may be constructed. The connector strips have a similar construction to the construction pieces and are used to join adjacent construction pieces. The sides may include complementary colors and patterns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Inventor: Tyler H. Dodge