Abstract: A soft and squeezable bath toy set for young children for use in bathtubs and/or pools is disclosed. The bath toy set includes containers, each container having a body, an inlet and an outlet. Each container includes a mounting member for connecting the container to a wall. The bath toy set includes a T-shaped pipe, angled connecting pipes and a tube assembly. The tube assembly includes a tube holder holding tubes. The tube holder includes a tube mounting member for connecting the tube holder to the wall. The containers position in different configurations and the tube assembly positions underneath the containers. The T-shaped pipe or the angled connecting pipes interchangeably connect the outlet of the containers above, and the inlet of the containers or the tubes below. The containers at the top receive water through the inlet and water flows down via the outlet into the container or the tubes positioned underneath via the T-shaped pipe and/or the angled connecting pipes.

Abstract: A medical simulator having a heat exchanger configured to transfer heat from electronics and other components of the medical simulator to simulated blood of a simulated vascular system of the medical simulator. The heated simulated blood can be circulated throughout the simulated vascular system to provide more realistic training for medical practitioners by increasing the temperature of the skin of the medical simulator to a more realistic temperature. Circulating the heated simulated blood can also serve to cool the electronics and other components, while simultaneously transferring the heat out from the vascular system into an environment outside of the medical simulator.

Abstract: A movable robotic structure including a frame or substrate, an outer skin connected to at least a portion of the frame and a vacuum source in fluid communication with the outer skin. The vacuum source, such as a vacuum pump, is activated to pull the outer skin into engagement with an outer surface of the frame. When pulled by the vacuum source, the skin may conform to the topography or texture of the frame, as well as become taut over at least a portion of the frame.

Abstract: The present document describes an entertainment device including one or more mini-crafts provided in a fluid medium within the sides of an electromagnetic frame. Each mini-craft includes a magnet and has a different cutoff frequency. Motion of the mini-crafts may be controlled by a user using a controller such as joystick, remote control etc. A processor computes, based on the multidirectional navigation signals received from the controller, electromagnetic signals for each coil in the electromagnetic frame. The electromagnetic signals are amplified and sent to the coils to generate superimposed rotating magnetic fields which cause the mini-crafts to rotate separately within the electromagnetic frame, each mini-craft following a distinct magnetic field with a frequency that is lower than its cutoff frequency.

Abstract: An artificial muscle (10) comprises a chamber (12) having a flexible wall of plastics material, a device for heating and/or cooling a low-boiling-point fluid contained in, or in communication with, the chamber so that at least some of the fluid changes state between liquid and gaseous so that the force in the chamber on the flexible wall changes and/or the flexible wall moves to change the volume of the chamber, and a tendon (14) which at least partly encircles the chamber over an extent that varies with variations in the chamber volume for transmitting force between the flexible wall and a load. The use of a low-boiling-point fluid operating at around its boiling point enables plastics materials to be used without thermal damage, and the use of plastics materials enables low production costs. The use of a flexible wall to convey an effort to a load avoids the need for sliding parts and can provide advantages such as reduced friction and ease of sealing.

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 playset includes a launching device and one or more accessory toys. The launching device includes a launch tube and a bellows system operable to generate a flow of air through the launch tube. The accessory toys may include vehicles such as air-launched vehicles and surface-launched vehicles. Each accessory toy may include a port that receives the launch tube. In use, an accessory toy is mounted onto the launch tube and the bellows is compressed, causing the air to propel the vehicle into the air or along a surface. In another embodiment, the launch tube may include and interference assembly that selectively prohibits the mounting of an accessory toy onto the launch tube, or prevents the launching of accessory toys already mounted onto the tube. The launching device may further be incorporated into a carrying case or a transport vehicle toy.

Abstract: In order to provide a never boring toy which moves to the singing voice or accompaniment music and which people can enjoy karaoke, the present invention provides a sounding toy having a driving mechanism which has a sound synthesizing device and loudspeakers which are integrated with the toy in the interior thereof and a sound mixing circuit provided in the sound synthesizing device, the loudspeaker and a handy microphone are connectable to the sound synthesizing device, wherein in the sound mixing circuit, an analog signal inputted from a microphone terminal and an analog signal inputted from the audio terminal are superimposed in a mixer circuit and are amplified from the loudspeaker put into foot parts of the toy through a main amplifier, and then a driver applies a voltage to a power source of the driving mechanism and the toy is operated by the driving mechanism.

Abstract: An artificial muscle (10) comprises a chamber (12) having a flexible wall of plastics material, a device for heating and/or cooling a low-boiling-point fluid contained in, or in communication with, the chamber so that at least some of the fluid changes state between liquid and gaseous so that the force in the chamber on the flexible wall changes and/or the flexible wall moves to change the volume of the chamber, and a tendon (14) which at least partly encircles the chamber over an extent that varies with variations in the chamber volume for transmitting force between the flexible wall and a load. The use of a low-boiling-point fluid operating at around its boiling point enables plastics materials to be used without thermal damage, and the use of plastics materials enables low production costs. The use of a flexible wall to convey an effort to a load avoids the need for sliding parts and can provide advantages such as reduced friction and ease of sealing.

Abstract: A toy character assembly having a coiled tail spring connected to one of said legs. There is mechanism provided for movably mounting the legs relative to said body portion. A gear train is operated by a motor to move the legs relative to the body portion in a downwardly direction to compress the coiled tail spring and then release the legs and body portion to set up a harmonic motion of the body and spring tail.

Abstract: An inflatable toy may include a housing, a balloon-like structure, a blower mechanism, a drive mechanism, and a motor. The balloon-like structure may include a base, an inflatable portion, and an inlet. The base and the inflatable portion may define an air storage area. The blower mechanism may be fluidly connected to the inlet of the balloon-like structure, and the drive mechanism may be operatively connected to the base. The motor may be operatively connected to the blower mechanism and the drive mechanism, wherein upon activation of the motor the blower mechanism may inflate the balloon-like structure and the drive mechanism may cause the balloon-like structure to move.

Abstract: A display assembly for removably mounting to a vehicle. The display assembly includes a base member having opposite end portions and an accessory item having a predetermined configuration such that when the vehicle reaches a sufficient speed the accessory item rises a distance above an adjacent surface of the vehicle. The display assembly includes a releaseable connection between the accessory item and an end portion of the base member.

Abstract: A predator replica is provided that has a moveable head. The head rotates and also has a spring actuated multidimensional movement for deterring pests, particularly unwanted birds. The predator head is provided with a wind activated fin. The fin increases the probability of head movement. The spring provides a “bobble” movement of owl head. The head suspends over the body with a gap between the head and body providing clearance to allow for the spring actuated head movement.

Abstract: A novelty which has a head and appendages coupled to a body via coupling elements, and includes one or more rotating members so as to add dynamic and aesthetic beauty to any garden, kitchen or other setting.

Abstract: A novelty which has as a head and appendages coupled to a body via coupling elements, and includes one or more rotating members so as to add dynamic and aesthetic beauty to any garden, kitchen or other setting.

Abstract: A novelty which has a head and appendages coupled to a body via coupling elements, and includes one or more rotating members so as to add dynamic and aesthetic beauty to any garden, kitchen or other setting.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wind operated device in the shape of a fish or the like. The device comprises at least two generally planar or segmented constructions of a lightweight material, each of the segments being flexibly connected to the other and a support rod connected to one of the segments by means of a bearing for supporting of the said device. When the device is subjected to an air-stream the segments move in a generally sinuous pattern in imitation of motion of a fish or the like while at the same time indicating wind direction.

Abstract: An interactive doll is disclosed having one or more sensors contained therein. The one or more sensors are operable to trigger output of a signal from the doll in response to the one or more sensors being activated by physical stimuli of a user. A processor located with the user and the doll at a first node of a global communication network processes the signal. The processor is operable to link the signal with one or more remote nodes also located on the global communication network. The one or more remote nodes return information to the processor for presentation to the user via the user's computer, in response to the one or more sensors being activated.

Abstract: A device for collecting treats has a handle having a first end and a second end. A basket is connected to the first end of the handle, the basket including an opening shaped to receive treats. The handle is shaped to allow a user to grasp the second end of the handle and extend the basket to a giver, who drops treats in the basket. The device includes an inflatable sack positioned at the first end of the handle. A feature shaped to resemble a scary creature such as a snake or rat is positioned around the inflatable sack. The device includes a pump. Inflating the inflatable sack with the pump causes the feature to move from a retracted position in which the feature is unobtrusive, to a protruding position in which the feature protrudes from the end of the handle thereby generating a startling effect to the giver. A coil spring attached to the feature then functions to return the feature to the retracted position.

Abstract: Wind-powered apparatus includes an animated figure depicting an animal. The body, wing and tail portions of the animal figure can be readily replaced to provide different apparatus configurations and appearances.

Abstract: A manually squeezable and resilient exercise ball having an outwardly protruding, rounded nipple that simulates the nipple of a woman's breast, and a ring on the surface of the ball encircling the nipple and having an irregular surface simulating the areola of a woman's breast.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for providing a dynamic gas-inflated object such as a figure with legs, a torso and head, and a pair of arms. The figure performs generally repetitive movements such as dance-like undulations in a manner that appears to keep time with music. The figure is hollow and connected to a continuous generally constant input flow of air or other gas under pressure. The figure is provided with at least two spaced-apart outlets or vents to allow a continuous discharge of generally all of the air being introduced into the figure. In operation, the figure tends to cycle between extending generally upright, then, as more air is discharged, destabilizing and moving to a contorted or bent position, then, as more air flows in, to extending, etc. The figure may be designed for extensive movement e.g., dancing, or for a narrower range of movements. In a preferred form, the outlets are generally at the top of the head and at the ends of the arms.

Abstract: A squeezable ball-like toy having an outer spheroidal casing molded of resilient synthetic plastic material whose exposed surface is contoured to render the casing suggestive of an organic object, such as a humanoid head or human organ. Distributed about the casing are ports creating orifices of varying size and shape. Enclosed within the casing is a core of elastomer material having a distinctive color, the core normally blocking the ports. When the ball-like toy is squeezed and deformed by a player, streams of elastomer integral with the core are then extruded from the orifices to simulate discharges from the organic object. When the toy is released to resume its normal shape, the streams are retracted into the core whereby the toy is then throwable.

Abstract: A sports training device, which is a simulated human figure having at least one movable limb; a fluid-containing actuating system connected to the movable limb; and a trigger device connected to the fluid-containing actuating system, for activating the fluid-containing actuating system. The training device provides a distractive movement to acclimate the sports player to distractions.

Abstract: A beverage stirrer having a pop out item such as figurine, logo or product replica is provided. The stirrer includes a hollow, tubular casing with a sliding mechanism formed therein. The sliding mechanism can comprise a buoyant member actuated by fluid pressure from a beverage being stirred. Alternately, the sliding mechanism can comprise a temperature sensitive spring actuated by a temperature differential created by the beverage. The pop out item can be mounted to an end of the sliding mechanism and can be configured to extend out of an open end of the casing as the beverage is stirred. The stirrer can also include a handle/display member wherein indicia such as advertising or a logo can be printed.

Abstract: A figure toy having an expandable torso and a flexible elastic skin covering the torso, the skin interiorly defining a substantially airtight internal cavity. When the torso is moved to its expanded condition, a partial vacuum is produced within the cavity, causing the elastic skin to conform closely to sculptured features resembling muscles disposed on the outer surface of the underlying torso plates, thereby creating an appearance of great strength. When the torso is returned to its unexpanded condition, the figure toy achieves a more normal aspect. Actuator mechanisms are disclosed for selectively expanding the torso by swinging the figure toy's arms downwardly.

Abstract: A hollow, flexible cover, molded in the shape of a full or partial sculpture, and designed to fit over the open end of a can, glass, cup, bottle, or carton type beverage container, and having an opening for a straw, to extend into the container to siphon liquid therefrom, such that the change in atmospheric pressure within the container, created by an intermittent siphoning of liquid, causes the cover to collapse and expand in a controlled manner and thereby exhibit animation or lifelike movement.

Abstract: There now has been discovered a simple, straight-forward apparatus and method for animating figures. The apparatus and method in one embodiment employs a plurality of collapsible, fluid chambers, and associated structures for 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. In another 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. Due to the differential in elasticity, upon inflation the chamber assumes a shape or configuration which is different from the noninflated chamber.

Abstract: This doll, or mannequin, features a relatively rigid core with an expandable flexible covering and inflation mechanism in order to expand the flexible covering to simulate weight gain or muscular development. The inflation mechanism may include a valve to slowly release accumulated pressure to simulate weight loss. The flexible covering, simulating a person's skin, may be formed integrally upon the core or may be placed upon the core as a close-fitting enclosure. The muscle gain doll features nonexpanding bands attached to the flexible covering to simulate muscular definition. Such a doll may be used with essentially non-stretchable clothing to simulate a person growing larger relative to their clothing and the unseemly appearance resulting therefrom.

Abstract: A toy bird capable of drinking water and producing sound is composed of a base and a hollow tubular body. The base is provided with two limbs having a support hole located at the top thereof. The hollow tubular body comprises a head located at the top thereof, a spherical container located at the bottom thereof, and a middle tube located between the head and the spherical container. The middle tube is provided centrally and horizontally with an electrically conductive support rod having two ends received in the support holes of the two limbs. The base contains a sound device comprising a sound circuit, a speaker and batteries. The two limbs are provided respectively with a conducting element.

Abstract: A water toy for use in association with an external water supply and a water pipe, such as a garden hose. A shaft has a bottom end operatively attached to a base member and a top end opposite to the bottom end. A water flow directing element is operatively attached adjacent the top end of the shaft and has a first end attached to the water pipe and one or more second ends which are attached to a corresponding number of flexible members. Each of the flexible members have a second end region which allow for the discharge of water. The forces applied by the water from the external water supply to the internal wall of the flexible members imparts random movement to the flexible members. A target is operatively attached to the spacing member or a portion of the flexible members so as to prompt physical interaction between a user of the water toy and the toy itself.

Abstract: A device for providing rotational movement. The device includes two body sections, each rotatably associated with respect to the other and two collapsible chambers having the configuration of a segment of a circle, the chambers being mounted such that the inflation of one causes the other chamber to collapse and the inflation of either chamber causing the body segments to rotate with respect to each other.

Abstract: An improved bird figure having a multi-vaned wing structure which is mounted to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the wing structure to provide a somewhat blurred motion simulating the rapid beating of hummingbird wings.

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: An inflatable vent toy for an exhaust vent air outlet comprising: an inflatable balloon made of a flexible material patterned and shaped to suit the preference of a user having a base defining an air inlet with surrounding attachment structure to secure the base over the exhaust vent air outlet such that the air inlet is in communication with the vent air outlet to enable in-coming air from the vent to enter the base air inlet and fill the balloon in a first mode, and to escape and collapse in a second mode when the in-coming air from the vent stops.

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 device which simulates a running bird, similar to a Road Runner. The device is an assembly of body, tail, neck and head. The tail and neck are pivotally coupled to the body and linked together so as to move together in a complementary fashion. The head is pivotally coupled to the end of the neck and is constrained to rotate about the end of the neck as the neck rotates about its pivotal coupling point with the body. Because neck and tail are linked together to move in complementary fashion, the assembly first simulates a bird with tail, neck and head in an erect, alert position. However, when subjected to a motive force, such as the wind, the tail and neck depress, the head extends forward and the assembly appears to be that of a bird rapidly advancing over the ground. Bird leg simulations add to the effect. Wind driven representations of legs further heighten the effect.

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 toy figurine and a fluid actuated animated module for ready detachment and attachment to the toy figurine. The toy figurine includes a means for generating and transmitting pressurized fluid which is utilized to activate an animated feature contained within the module. The figurine also includes a socket assembly to facilitate the detachment and attachment of the module and provide a fluid seal between the figurine and the module. The socket assembly includes a movable member having a front end surface which is substantially flush with the outer covering of the figurine when the module is detached. The movable member is capable of assuming a depressed position so as to permit the attachment of the module to the socket assembly and facilitate the flow of pressurized fluid from the figurine to the module.

Abstract: A pneumatic structure a part or the whole of which can desirably be put in motion when the pneumatic structure is shaped into, for example, outlines of living things or the like. A spare portion having at least a pair of bending fulcra is formed on the structure main body on the opposite side to a bending direction of the structure, and a length of arc between the respective fulcra of the spare portion is made shorter than 1/2 outer circumferential length of the pneumatic structure containing a set of the respective fulcra, whereby the structure can positively be maintained in a desired state under normal conditions and bending operation thereof can be promptly effected at a large angle by means of small external force.

Abstract: Pneumatic action toy creatures each have a body with a hollow resilient compressible portion. An opening in the compressible portion receives an elongated piston with a cross section substantially conforming to the opening to provide for pneumatic reciprocation of the piston. At least one set of opposed members is mounted for pivotal movement with respect to each other in a direction, and about an axis, generally transverse to the elongated dimension of the piston. Either by an enlargement on one end of the piston, or through interaction with the opposed members, the throw of the piston is limited to retain the one end within the compressible portion. Reciprocation of the piston upon compression and release of the resilient body portion actuates pivotal movement of the opposed members through mechanical engagement.

Abstract: A pair of rotatable wings are slidably and rotatably received and secured on the axle of a bracket carried by a water fowl decoy to extend laterally outward from the decoy body. The wings have a series of circumferentially spaced blades which are shaped to cause rotation of the wings when subjected to a slight breeze and produce an alternating visual signal upon rotation. The bracket may be releasably attached to the decoy or molded into the decoy body during manufacture.

Abstract: Vestibular and tactile responses of a living subject, human or animal, are evoked by positioning in its vicinity a simulated breathing animal, or the like as a pacifying sleeping aid. The simulated animal includes a trunk portion having a variable volume "pleural cavity". A bladder affixed to the back portion cyclically expands and contracts to simulate breathing. A pneumatic pumping system alternately increases and decreases pressure in the bladder to actuate the front or stomach of the simulated animal. Head or other apendages (arms, legs, wings and the like) may be moved by such expansion and contractions. The animal thereby produces actual movement to create a vestibular response and the covering of sheepskin or the like creates a tactile response in the living subject.

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 toy figure with a head having a substantially rigid outer surface of a first appearance is covered by a relatively flexible outer mask having a second appearance which is self-supporting in normal atmospheric pressure. The mask is secured in substantially airtight relationship covering, but spaced from, the outer surface of the head. Reduction of the pressure in the space between the outer surface of the head and the mask by a pump collapses the mask and conforms its appearance to the first appearance of the outer surface of the underlying head. Both the interior of the mask and the outer surface of the head are provided with approximately the same surface area. Upper and lower portions of the torso of the figure are slidingly separable to operate a piston pump to reduce the pressure in the space between the head and the mask.

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.

Abstract: This invention resides in improvements in a toy and particularly in a toy which may, in use, cyclically rise and sink in water due to the change of buoyancy caused by bubbles formed in a lower internal chamber in which moistened baking powder or the like may be placed. An upper section of the toy is fitted with one or more hollow tubular sections that serve to suspend the toy in a generally erect position when initially fully immersed in water and which tubular sections serve as a pivot about which the toy oscillates as it rises and sinks. The tubular sections are generally formed with a hollow interior section that communicates to an open mouth section of a size to retain air within the interior when the object is immersed in water. The toy may be employed out of the water to slide down an inclined ramp as formed bubbles momentarily lift the toy off an inclined surface of the ramp.

Abstract: A wall climbing toy has a drive mechanism comprising a driven endless belt and a plurality of suction disks mounted on the belt. A plurality of wires interconnect the belt with the disks to (1) pull the latter from the surface, and (2) bend the disks toward a surface-confronting condition as the disks approach the surface.