Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to an electromagnetic animated figure control system. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to techniques for actuating a figure, such as a plush toy, using addressable control nodes (e.g., electromagnetic coils) of an electromagnetic array. For example, an amusement park may include a control surface implemented to include the electromagnetic array. Further, an animated figure may include magnets in one or more components. Accordingly, while the animated figure may lack a power source, the animated figure may be controlled (e.g., actuated) via a controlled magnetic interaction between the control surface and the magnets.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention is directed to a baby bottle apparatus, comprising: a nipple (11); a liquid container (12); a flexible tube (17) connecting the nipple to the container; a normally-closed valve, for controlling the flow of fluid from the container (12) to the nipple (11); at least one lever (13), for opening the valve for fluid passage from the container to the nipple; thereby allowing a user to control fluid flow from the baby bottle apparatus. Preferably, the mechanism for limiting the distance between the parallel bars comprising a rotatable ring (15) having a different outer diameter therealong, such that a movement of each of the levers (13) is limited by the ring (15).

Abstract: A relay for a toy track set, the relay having, a first actuator in a first plane; a second actuator in a second plane vertically elevated from the first plane; a conduit fluidly coupling the first actuator to the second actuator; and a release mechanism moveably secured to the first actuator for movement between a first position and a second position wherein movement of the release mechanism from the first position towards the second position causes the first actuator to force a fluid through the conduit, wherein the fluid forced through the conduit by the first actuator causes the second actuator to actuate a second release mechanism, wherein the first actuator is coupled to a first vehicle track segment and the second actuator is coupled to a second vehicle track segment.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a relay for a toy track set, the relay having: a first actuator; a second actuator; an object coupling the first actuator to the second actuator, the object being releasably received on the first actuator and the object has a mechanism configured to retract a cord into the object, the cord being secured to the second actuator at one end and the mechanism at the other end; a trigger moveably secured to the first actuator for movement between a first position and a second position wherein movement of the trigger from the first position towards the second position actuates the mechanism of the object and the object moves towards the second actuator as the mechanism of the object retracts the cord into the object; and a trigger moveably secured to the second actuator for movement between a first position and a second position wherein movement of the trigger from the first position towards the second position launches an object from the second actuator, wherein the trigger secured to the second

Abstract: A toy doll system is provided including a self-pressurized fluid receptacle disposed within the doll having a first outlet valve and a second outlet valve operably connected to the receptacle. The receptacle includes a rigid housing member having an interior and a rigid housing cover including a plurality of apertures, wherein a resilient sheet-like member is disposed between the housing member and the housing cover for providing an airtight chamber for storing fluid under pressure between the resilient member and the housing cover. The doll includes first and second activators for manually opening first and second outlet valves, respectively, for providing tearing and wetting effects. A bottle is provided having a tip configured to be insertable into the doll's mouth opening for injecting fluid therein. As fluid is input between the resilient member and the housing cover, the resilient member stretches and expands into the housing member interior accordingly.

Abstract: A relay for a toy track set, the relay having a first actuator, a second actuator and a conduit fluidly coupling the first actuator to the second actuator. The first actuator having a release mechanism moveably secured thereto for movement between a first position and a second position wherein movement of the release mechanism from the first position towards the second position causes the first actuator to force a fluid through the conduit, wherein the fluid forced through the conduit by the first actuator causes the second actuator to actuate a second release mechanism.

Abstract: A pneumatic action figure doll is disclosed with articulated limbs controlled by a hand operated pneumatic pump. The articulated limbs may comprise connected limb members and links configured to move in a plane. Operation of the handheld pump may cause the articulated limbs to extend and retract. When the limbs are arms, operation simulates arm swinging motions similar to fighting or boxing. The doll may include actuators to extend articulated arms in response to operation of the pump. The doll may be articulated at the waist to provide movement of the torso when articulated arms extend and retract. The doll may be used alone or with other similarly configured dolls. The dolls may be placed opposite each other. Simultaneous extension and retraction of the doll arms in response to simultaneous operation of the handheld pumps may resemble fighting or boxing between the dolls.

Abstract: A toy doll system is provided including a self-pressurized fluid receptacle disposed within the doll having a first outlet valve and a second outlet valve operably connected to the receptacle. The receptacle includes a rigid housing member having an interior and a rigid housing cover including a plurality of apertures, wherein a resilient sheet-like member is disposed between the housing member and the housing cover for providing an airtight chamber for storing fluid under pressure between the resilient member and the housing cover. The doll includes first and second activators for manually opening first and second outlet valves, respectively, for providing tearing and wetting effects. A bottle is provided having a tip configured to be insertable into the doll's mouth opening for injecting fluid therein. As fluid is input between the resilient member and the housing cover, the resilient member stretches and expands into the housing member interior accordingly.

Abstract: A submersible device according to an embodiment of the invention includes a container configured to be selectively buoyant in a liquid. The container can have at least one of a variety of different buoyancy systems. For example, the container can include a reservoir where the volume can be adjusted. In another example, the container can include a reservoir in communication with a pump configured to control the intaking and expelling of a liquid. In another embodiment, the container also defines a first partitioned section and a second partitioned section. The first partitioned section is substantially liquid resistant and the second partitioned section defines a hole in communication with an exterior of the container. An actuator is configured to receive an input from a user and is configured to modify an interior volume of the second partitioned section based on the input.

Abstract: A water gun may comprise a body having a front surface, a nozzle mounted on and extending from the body, an actuator, at least one fluid reservoir, and a pump. The nozzle may have at least a nozzle portion adapted to move between an extended position spaced away from the front surface and a retracted position closer to the front surface than the extended position. The actuator may be adapted to be moved relative to the body, and mechanically coupled to the nozzle for moving the nozzle between the retracted and extended positions when the actuator is moved between first and second positions. The fluid reservoir may comprise first and second end portions and a generally uniform elongate intermediate portion extending between the first and second end portions, which may have volumes that are larger than the volume of the intermediate portion.

Abstract: An animal call includes a mouthpiece, a barrel, and a reed. The mouthpiece defines an air channel therein and has a reed bed proximate the air channel. The barrel is coupled to the mouthpiece and has an internal chamber that is fluidically coupled to the air channel of the mouthpiece. A surface comprising the air channel varies in order to maintain a substantially constant cross-sectional area magnitude along a length of the channel. The reed is disposed adjacent the air channel and proximate the reed bed.

Abstract: A bathtub whirlpool toy and educational device has a bottom and gasket designed to allow the device to fit over the drain of a household fixture such as a bathtub or sink. The device has a generally cylindrical interior space having inlet slots set at an angle, so that water entering the interior from the bath will begin to rotate immediately. A central outlet leads to a recuperation chamber having an offset recuperation chamber outlet allowing the recuperation chamber outlet to sit directly over a bathtub drain. The recuperation chamber may have a plurality of vanes/fins designed to reduce water circulation and increase water flow. An adapter may allow the user to alter the size and shape of the interior space outlet aperture, and may be fixable in place or movable during use so as to allow the user to alter the vortex/whirlpool dynamically.

Abstract: A system comprising a plurality of three dimensional artificially animated portraits for performing preprogrammed animations of voice and facial expressions in the form of a scripted dialogue orchestrated by a central source. The system is operable to prepare animations of recorded voice and selected depictions of facial expressions to be transferred to the animated portraits and performed by the animated portraits. The system is operable to combine prepared animations in a scripted dialogue to be performed so as to mimic an interactive conversation.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention there is provided a pneumatic pump in combination with a pneumatic toy vehicle powered by a refillable compressed chamber. The improvement of the pump is defined by having a pipe that has an aperture to exhaust air being pumped therefrom. The pump further includes a means for launching the vehicle from the pump. The toy vehicle includes a pneumatic motor that when activated utilizes air in the chamber to propel the vehicle and activation of the motor is achieved by moving the vehicle. The vehicle includes an air inlet valve sized to securely engage the pipe of the pump such that movement of the vehicle during filling of the chamber is prevented. When securely engaged by the pipe, the vehicle is positioned against the launching means. A user operating the launching means pushes the vehicle, which activates the motor, such that the vehicle launches away from the pump.

Abstract: A bubble blower and a bubble blower equipped vehicle includes: a case; a discharge hole adapted to discharge bubbles, the discharge hole being arranged in a front portion of the case; a detachable cartridge filled with a bubble producing liquid and affixed to a lower portion of the case; a supply path arranged between the detachable cartridge and the discharge hole and adapted to transfer the bubble producing liquid from the detachable cartridge; a blower fan arranged within an inner portion of the case and adapted to produce a stream of air, the bubble producing liquid being sprayed into the stream of air from the supply path to produce bubbles; a handle arranged on a lower portion of the case; a switch arranged on one side of an outer face of the case and adapted to operate the fan; a reflector plate arranged to encircle the discharge hole; and a plurality of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) arranged on the reflector plate.

Abstract: The pet toy consists of an inner elastomer ball having an inner ball wall, a squeaker mounted in the inner ball wall, an outer elastomer ball having an outer ball wall, an air hole mounted in the outer ball wall, the inner ball being within the outer ball. The outer ball protects the squeaker from dislodgement from the wall of the inner ball and protects the inner ball wall when the pet attacks the toy. The inner ball can be pushed through air hole so that the inner ball can be placed into the outer ball.

Abstract: A device for recreational and educational use includes a substantially cylindrical section having a first end, and a second end. A cavity is disposed within the substantially cylindrical section to receive fluid when the device is immersed in a body of fluid. The substantially cylindrical section decreases in radius toward the first end and present a low drag profile to impinging fluid flow. Control surfaces are included on the substantially cylindrical section. A stabilizer is coupled with the substantially cylindrical section, to stabilize motion of the device in the body of fluid when the device is launched by a user. The device can be hand-launched by a user. Energy storage assisted launch mechanisms are also described that assist the user during submarine launch of the device.

Abstract: A water toy is provided. The water toy includes a housing (15) and an inlet (54) for directing liquid into the housing. The water toy also includes a distribution assembly (30) disposed in the housing and coupled in fluid communication with the inlet. The water toy further includes a plurality of outlets (61), each adapted to direct a stream of liquid (12) out of the housing, the outlets coupled in fluid communication with the distribution assembly, wherein the distribution assembly intermittently directs a stream of liquid (12) out of each of the outlets.

Abstract: A frictional-type game calling apparatus, wherein a striking plate is adapted to be frictionally contacted by a striker for reproducing the mating, gathering, and feeding calls of wild turkeys. The present apparatus and method allows for easy, one-handed operation, wherein the striker is held in constant contact with the striking plate, thereby allowing unrestricted use of the game call in any physical orientation.

Abstract: A diaphragm actuated toy water gun is provided which includes a housing having a handle with a trigger as well as a barrel with a water ejection nozzle located thereon. A water supply tank is connected to the main housing which can be filled with water. A pump is located on the housing for pumping water from the supply tank to at least one diaphragm chamber located on the housing. The diaphragm chamber is formed between a fixed wall and a flexible diaphragm, which can be deflected and expanded from its neutral position into a diaphragm housing. A release valve C the diaphragm assembly. Actuation of the release valve allows a stream of water to be ejected from the diaphragm water gun.

Abstract: An integral pump assembly may be used to power a toy vehicle. The pump pressurizes fluid stored within the pressure vessel. The pressurized fluid within the pressure vessel drives the engine that powers the toy vehicle until the stored pressurized fluid has been depleted. The pump may then repressurize the pressure vessel to again drive the pneumatic engine. The pump is substantially disposed within the body of the toy vehicle.

Abstract: A table lamp having an ornamental liquid container movably connected to a main body thereof, so that the ornamental liquid container tends to swing, rotate and/or turn upside-down under an external force applied on the ornamental liquid container. At least one type of liquid, such as a dual-liquid or a magma-like liquid, and floating ornaments are contained in the ornamental liquid container. The liquid and floating ornaments tend to create unique, changeful and dynamic scenes when the ornamental liquid container is moved by the external force applied on it. The ornamental liquid container therefore gives the table lamp novel appearances and additional decorative effect.

Abstract: A water discharge device, particularly a toy water gun, includes a portable housing containing a reservoir for a quantity of water; a discharge control device for controlling the discharge of water from the housing; and a hand-operated pump for manually pumping water from the reservoir through the discharge control. The discharge control device includes an expansible chamber having an inlet connected to the pump, an outlet through which the water is discharged, and a pressure-responsive valve controlling the outlet. The valve is normally closed to permit expansion of the reservoir and a build-up of water pressure during the pumping of water by the pump into the reservoir, but automatically opens when a predetermined pressure is reached in the chamber to discharge water through the outlet.

Abstract: A toy nursing bottle for use with a doll is provided with a reciprocating nipple that actuates a bellows to create air bubbles in a liquid within the bottle. The toy nursing bottle includes a transparent bottle having a body portion and a neck portion, and a volume of liquid, preferably a colored liquid, in the body portion of the bottle. A resiliently compressible bellows is supported within the neck portion of the bottle. The bellows includes an outlet valve in the bottom wall for injecting air bubbles into the liquid in the bottle when the bottle is inverted and the bellows is compressed, and an inlet valve in the bottom wall for drawing air back into the bellows when the bellows is released. An elongated air inlet tube is connected to the inlet valve and extends upwardly into an air space above the volume of liquid in the bottle so that the air is drawn into the bellows from the air space.

Abstract: A generally cylindrical base defines a bottom supporting surface securable by suction cup attachment to a table top or the like. The base defines an interior reservoir and is hingedly joined to a pivotable cover. The cover supports a rotating element and an upwardly directed spray nozzle. A generally U-shaped handle is pivotally secured to the base and is operatively coupled to an internal pump mechanism which forces water upwardly through the spray nozzle and a drive mechanism which rotates the rotatable element.

Abstract: A fluid engine for use in pneumatically operated toys such as wheeled vehicles or airplanes includes an engine having a fluid input cavity which is in continuous fluid communication with a source of compressed air, a fluid delivery cavity which is in continuous communication with a piston cavity bounded by a moveable piston mounted in a cylinder member and which is separated from the fluid input cavity by a wall having a valve opening, and exhaust apertures which are separated from the fluid delivery cavity. A valve rod is movably housed to open the valve opening and close the exhaust apertures during the piston's power stroke, and to close the valve opening and open the exhaust opening during the piston's exhaust stroke. The valve rod is operatively connected to a piston to act in synchronism with it by the use of a cam integrally secured to a propeller power shaft.

Abstract: A toy water gun comprising a housing, water tank, nozzle, pump assembly, piston drive assembly, and crank handle. The pump assembly comprises (a) first and second cylinders, each cylinder having a first cylinder end with an opening for receiving a piston end and a second cylinder end with an intake port and a discharge port; (b) a piston having a two piston ends, a piston shaft between the two piston ends, and a drive pin on the piston shaft, each piston end inserted into the first open ends of the first and second cylinders, respectively, and being slidable along the longitudinal axes of the cylinders in sealing relation to the cylinder walls; and (c) a device means for filling the two cylinders with water from the water tank and for discharging water from the two cylinders through the nozzle, wherein the filling and discharging device act in cooperation with the slidable movement of the piston ends. The piston drive assembly comprises a cam arm and a coupling wheel.

Abstract: A stuffed toy includes a toy body, a tubular air control seat and an air extractor. The toy body is made from an air impermeable and stretchable cloth material and confines a hollow space that is stuffed with a solid filling material. The toy body is formed with a tubular connecting portion which defines an opening for accessing the hollow space. The air control seat is made from a pliable and resilient material and is secured in the tubular connecting portion of the toy body. The air control seat has a first tubular part and a second tubular part with a first end connected to the first tubular part and a second end that is formed with a control valve. The air extractor is secured in the first tubular part of the air control seat and is operable so as to draw air from the hollow space of the toy body into the air control seat in order to stiffen the toy body and enable the toy body to sustain a desired posture.

Abstract: A stretchable toy figure which preferably has the ability to be altered from a first, unposable state to a second, posable state by reducing the pressure on the interior of the toy figure. The reduced pressure can also preferably alter the appearance of the toy figure. A manifold assembly for reducing the pressure on the interior of a toy figure includes two one-way valves. A valve through which air may be removed from the interior of the manifold includes a knob adapted to be associated with a device for reducing pressure. A second valve, when opened by a switch, allows air to enter the interior of the manifold when the pressure therein is below ambient pressure. The toy figure can alternatively utilize a single, two-way valve.

Abstract: A system (10) simultaneously directs compressed fluid to a turbine while compressing fluid to disengage a locking mechanism that restrains movement of the toy vehicle (11). A primary tube (20), attached to the toy vehicle body (12), forms a primary chamber (22) which receives a plug in the form of a secondary tube (30) that seals the primary chamber (22). A fluid may be compressed into the primary chamber (22) through the inserted plug (30). The interior of the inserted tube (30) forms a secondary chamber (32) which encases a hollow piston (40). Fluid is compressed into the primary chamber (22) and secondary chamber (32) through the hollow piston (40). The hollow piston (40) also forms a part of a locking mechanism which maintains a latch (60), the primary tube (20) and the secondary tube (30) in contact with one another until pressurized fluid in the primary chamber (22) forces the piston (40) away from the latch (60).

Abstract: A housing is arranged to include a fluid chamber, with the fluid chamber arranged with a surrounding pneumatic chamber. A piston member is arranged for sliding displacement along the reservoir chamber upon removal of a release pin, such that upon the piston exposing pneumatic entry ports into the fluid chamber effects pressurization of fluid within the fluid chamber and expels such fluid in an array from the housing.

Abstract: The present invention is a toy pen having liquid projecting pump action capabilities. It includes a main housing and an upper section which, together, simulate a pen. The main housing and upper section include a liquid storage reservoir and a cylinder and piston. The piston and upper section are connected to one another so that reciprocation of the upper section causes the piston to reciprocate and pump liquid from the storage reservoir to the cylinder and from the cylinder to a nozzle for projection therefrom. Preferably, two one way valves are included, one to permit flow from the reservoir to the cylinder, but not vice versa, and the other to permit flow from the cylinder to the nozzle, but not vice versa. In preferred embodiments, there is an air vent which is closed when the piston is up, i.e. the cylinder is open, and which is open when the piston is not fully up.

Abstract: A game apparatus including a pump carried in a housing and having a chamber with air inlet and air outlet and a piston sliding in the chamber, a release valve, an inflation nozzle for a balloon, and a pipeline in the housing connecting the chamber air outlet, the release valve, and the inflation nozzle. A release valve for the game apparatus including a valve seat, a deflate arm pivotally mounted on the housing, a valve carried on the deflate arm, and a spring engaging the deflate arm and housing for urging the valve onto the valve seat in sealing condition.

Abstract: A suctioning and pumping toy for malleable play materials includes a hollow cylinder having a closed end supporting a nozzle. A piston rod is received within the hollow cylinder and supports a resilient piston. A transversely extending cylindrical barrel housing is supported upon the cylindrical member and defines an interior cavity for receiving a plurality of play articles. A plurality of interrelated toy figures and play articles are variously configured to be utilized in combination with the suctioning and pumping toy together with a malleable play material having viscosity properties which permit the play material to be suctioned into and pumped from the cylindrical bore of the pumping and suctioning toy as the piston rod is moved by the user.

Abstract: An elastic material inflation toy includes an elongated base and a generally spherical housing. The elongated base supports a collapsible air bellows and a pair of one-way check valves which cooperate with the air bellows to produce a stream of pressurized air as the air bellows are operated. An inflation tube is coupled between the air bellows pressure output and the spherical housing. The spherical housing defines an annular collar which receives a pancake-like shape quantity of elastic material. A pivotally secured annular lock ring includes a lock clasp for securing the lock ring upon the elastic material in a sealing attachment whereby the elastic material forms a generally air-tight seal against the spherical housing collar. As the air bellows are operated, the pressure within the spherical housing inflates the portion of the elastic material spanning the collar into a spherical expansion similar to a bubble.

Abstract: An air-pulse powered arrow shooting toy set provided with at least one soft arrow whose shaft is formed of resilient, flexible foam material, the rear section of the shaft having an axial bore so that the arrow is slidable onto a launching tube which then extends into the bore. Coupled to the tube is an air gun which, when cocked and then fired, produces a compressed air pulse which is delivered to the launching tube to shoot off the arrow. The air gun includes a barrel having a piston slidable therein which is attached to a piston rod that extends out of one end of the barrel to join a handle. Surrounding the piston rod between the one end of the barrel and the piston is a compressible helical spring. A hand grip attached to the barrel is provided with a spring-biased trigger having a latching finger which when the trigger is inactive extends into a slot in the barrel.

Abstract: An aquatic toy includes a tank containing liquid. The tank includes a bottom part having an upper perforated plate member, a lower guide plate member connected to the upper perforated plate member, and a space formed between the upper perforated plate member and the lower guide plate member. A floatable toy floats on the liquid in the tank. A base is attached to the bottom part of the tank. A liquid propelling unit is provided in the bottom part of the tank which forces the liquid upwards from the space through the upper perforated plate member when it is actuated. A motor is mounted in the base and connected to the liquid propelling unit, actuating the liquid propelling unit.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for animating figures employs at least one collapsible, fluid chamber, and associated means for controlling the fluid pressure the chamber. In one embodiment, a single, inflatable chamber is employed, the chamber having a section of one wall which is less elastic than the remaining portion of the wall. In another embodiment, two collapsible, fluid chambers, and associated means for controlling the fluid pressure in each of said chambers are provided. The chambers are each helically wound in opposite directions and placed substantially parallel to one another.

Abstract: A writing instrument with a projector mechanism includes a pen holder with an upper section for holding either a pen fixing blocking with a refill for writing purposes or a toy missile or other article for fun. The pen holder also includes a lower section for installation of a projector mechanism composed of a plunger, a push rod, a compression spring, a rtainer ring and a puller. By pulling the puller outwardly the plunger and the push rod are displaced, and the compression spring is compressed. Then release of the puller can result in a thrust force in the pen holder to project the toy missile or other article in the upper section of the pen holder for fun. Alternatively placing the pen fixing block with a refill in the upper section of the pen holder, the writing instrument can be used for writing.

Abstract: A crushable car body (20) having a pressurized deformable bladder (50) associated with the upper car body portion (30) such that when downward pressure was exerted on the roof (31) of the car body (20) the car body (20) would be deformed to simulate a crushed car; and, wherein the reintroduction of positive pressure into the deformable bladder will return the car body (20) to its original configuration.

Abstract: There now has been discovered a simple, straight-forward apparatus for animating figures through the use of the apparatus and method of the present invention. The apparatus and method employ a plurality of collapsible, fluid chambers, and associated values controlling the fluid pressure in each of the chambers. At least two of the chambers are physically arranged so that the inflation of one such chamber and deflation of the other complimentary chamber causes all or a part of the figure to assume a different spatial position, dependent upon the level of inflation of each of the chambers. Typically, at least two of the chambers are arranged so that the inflation of one such chamber exerts a physical force on the other.

Abstract: A boxing training partner comprised of a base, a figure body having two arms, a spring, a height adjusting device located in the base, a controller, and two arm extension devices. The controller controls the filling of gas bags, which are part of the arm extension devices, for causing the two arms to extend aperiodically, according to a predetermined sequence stored in a memory, so as to respectively give a blow. A pair of arch spring plates are placed in each of the two arms, for returning the two arms to their retracted position, each time after having been extended.

Abstract: A squirting straw device for playing a practical joke on a drinker or another nearby is described. The straw is constructed so as to direct pressurized liquid to strike the supposed drinker or another nearby in response to suction being applied at an opening of the straw.

Abstract: A vehicle comprising a chassis and slidable vacuum apparatus mounted on the chassis and arranged for slidable vacuum seal engagement with a support surface.

Abstract: A device for scaring birds thereby aiding in the prevention of crop destruction due to the birds feeding thereon comprises in combination an actuator, such as an air gun which ejects at increased velocity a gaseous stream in a predetermined path, a frame including a target disposed in an impinging relationship to the gaseous stream path so as to be moved between rest and operative positions responsive to the gaseous stream, and visual scaring member operatively connected to the target for scaring birds, the visual member being reciprocally operable between inactive and active positions in response to the target being moved between the rest and operable position, respectively. According to another embodiment of the present invention, automatic controls are provided for disabling the device during night hours and/or during periods of increased wind velocities which could potentially damage the device.

Abstract: A device for scaring birds thereby aiding in the prevention of crop destruction due to the birds feeding thereon comprises in combination an actuator, such as an air gun which ejects at increased velocity a gaseous stream in a predetermined path, a frame including a target disposed in an impinging relationship to the gaseous stream path so as to be moved between rest and operative positions responsive to the gaseous stream, and a visual scaring member operatively connected to the target for scaring birds, the visual member being reciprocally operable between inactive and active positions in response to the target being moved between the rest and operable position, respectively. According to another embodiment of the present invention, controls are provided for disabling the device during night hours and/or during periods of increased wind velocities which could potentially damage the device.