Abstract: Some embodiments include a game of poker in which player actions are fixed by game rules.

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: 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: The present invention provides an electronic mail communication method via a stuffed toy. At a mail center, a mail address for an owner of a stuffed toy is acquired together with ID code assigned to the stuffed toy, and data related to the ID code is transmitted as an electronic mail to the owner. The electronic mail is based on a conversational text including characters, signs, graphics, voices, or sounds, and the owner can enjoy communications with the stuffed toy by overlapping the images provided through the communications with an image of the stuffed toy at the owner's hand.

Abstract: A novel aquatic system that includes a motorized housing which can be propelled across a body of water. The motorized housing is coupled to a tethering line that can be used to provide a command to stop and/or control the movement of the housing. The line may be coupled to a rod and reel used to pull the housing back to the operator. The housing may be shaped as a fish and contain an off-center weight that vibrates and provides the simulated experience of “catching the fish”.

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 preprinted food group triangle sheet having indicia representative of a plurality of food groups thereon is sized to be inserted between a first triangular member and a second triangle member. A plurality of apertures extend in complimentary alignment through both the first and second triangular members. The plurality of apertures are positioned in relation to each of the food groups preprinted on a food group triangle sheet. One or more additional apertures may be provided to record the taking of vitamins, minerals or medication. A punch is provided for manual insertion into an aperture selected from a plurality of apertures. A flexible strap may be used to secure the punch to the food group monitoring apparatus. The food triangle sheets may be releasably secured in a pad, or on a page of a book, to provide a lasting record of the quantity and selection of foods consumed according to food groups, over time.

Abstract: A wheeled toy adapted to respond interactively to movement comprises sensor means adapted to detect a change in movement selected from speed, direction and angle of orientation, computer processing means adapted to process signals from the sensor means, to calculate the orientation of the toy, and to generate an electronic response, selected from a series of pre-selected responses, appropriate to said orientation or change in movement, communication means adapted to receive said electronic response and to generate a visual or audible response which can be sensed by a user of the toy in order to prompt a change in said orientation or movement.

Abstract: An adhesive bond, especially for flocking a model landscape, and a process for the production of the adhesive bond, include triturating toy building blocks that are made of a solid foam that becomes adhesive by moistening, for example of foamed starch material, to form flocks, spraying the model landscape with starch in liquid form and scatterning the flocks onto the sprayed model landscape.

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 sound producing workbench toy includes a molded plastic base supporting a molded plastic work surface. A work station formed of a molded plastic material defines a plurality of receptacles within which various tools and accessories such as simulated nails, screws or bolts may be received. Switch mechanisms within the receptacles are coupled to conventional sound producing circuits and are operative in response to the manipulation of inserted tools, screws, bolts or the like to energize the sound circuits at the appropriate time.

Abstract: A therapeutical game apparatus is disclosed including a table-like flat member 1 supported by legs 2. The table-like flat member is provided with aperture 6, 7, 8, 9. These apertures receive cylindrical elements 21 that are moveable axially within the aperture responsive to striking blows delivered by a hammer or other appropriate striking tool. Clamp members are aligned with each aperture and include provisions to enable selective adjustment of clamping forces against the cylindrical elements to resist axial motion of the cylindrical elements through their respective apertures. An indication device may be used with the apparatus to visually indicate the adjusted clamping force applied against an associated one of the cylindrical elements.

Abstract: The present invention relates to educational and demonstration devices for the instruction of basic scientific principles. The present invention consists of a kit for science instruction which comprises a multifunctional support block, activity cards containing directions for setting up and conducting experiements and a selection of accessory items. The accessory items can include gears, mirrors, ramps, dowelling, magnets, metal rods, weights, balloons, paper clips, string, tape, tacks, rubber bands, washers, straws, pins, moulds and cloth patches.

Abstract: A novelty device is presented as a therapeutic and entertaining organization to permit positioning of an actual or simulation of insect upon an anvil and utilizing a hammer member mounted upon a forward surface of a support base underlying the anvil to effect impact of the insect. A modification of the instant invention includes an audible device actuated upon impacting the anvil by the hammer assembly.

Abstract: A toy which, when employed, simulates log splitting, comprises two log halves that cosmetically portray natural log halves, each half having a fastener for joining the halves together and a cavity that creates a slot when the halves are joined. A wedge is applied to the slot to split the log by separating the fasteners with the aid of a sledge.

Abstract: A toy simulated power drill workshop is disclosed for simulating the drilling action of a real power drill in the process of drilling a hole through a board or the like. The toy simulated power drill-workshop having a base member having a first opening extending therethrough, and a plate movably mounted on the base member for covering the first opening. The plate has a second opening alignable with the first opening upon movement of the plate for uncovering the first opening. A driven gear is mounted on the plate with the teeth thereof extending into the first opening. A toy power drill having a rotatably driven cylindrical post with a drive gear on the end thereof is adapted when inserted and pressed into the first opening into engagement with the teeth to rotate the plate until the first and second openings are moved into alignment. During the rotation of the plate, the non-movement of the drill simulates the imperceptible movement of a real drill as it is drilling a hole into a board or the like.