Rotating Or Having Visible Rotating Portion (e.g., Spinning Or Whirling, Not Rolling) Patents (Class 446/236)
  • Patent number: 11766624
    Abstract: A toy for simulating the dispensing of a beverage. The toy includes a bench decorated to represent a beverage dispenser, such as an espresso machine. The toy also includes a simulated filter basket. The filter basket has a handle, a disc receiver and a support ring. The handle and disc receiver are rotatably connected with the ring so that, when the handle is rotated, the handle and disc receiver rotate about the horizontal axis with respect to the ring. One or more discs shaped to rest in the disc receiver are provided. Each disc has a decoration on one face showing a material used to create a beverage, for example, ground coffee, and a second face decorated to represent the top surface of a dispensed beverage, for example, a latte. The toy is operated by placing one of the discs in the disc receiver with the face showing the material facing upward. The filter basket is into a slot on the frame and the cup is positioned beneath the disc receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2023
    Assignee: Melissa & Doug, LLC
    Inventors: George LeMoine, Matt Burtonwood
  • Patent number: 11241605
    Abstract: A body held sparring device configured for either striking or being hit with the addition of a secondary target. The secondary target is offset from the sparring tool and designed to yield when struck, rather than transmit dangerous torque to the body part holding the sparring tool. Additionally, the sparring tool can further incorporate additional sparring tools, additional secondary targets and or additional control body points. A body held sparring device comprising: a U-shaped structure, at least a first sparring tool, and at least a first target wherein the first sparring tool is configured to be controlled independently of the U-shaped structure and to simulate punches being thrown by an opponent such as jabs and crosses. Wherein the first target is configured to yield when struck to reduce the amount of torque received by the body part through the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2022
    Inventor: Clarence V. Hall
  • Patent number: 11192044
    Abstract: A mobile kit that revolves from the airflow of a ceiling fan. The mobile kit comprises a display structure that is attached to a balancing platform by one or more bridles, which permits balancing and rebalancing of the mobile when ornaments are added, removed or relocated. The balancing platform is attached to the lower end of a fan attachment device, which is a swivel chain with attachment means, or a similar device with one or more swivel attachment means that permits continuous rotation of the display structure in the airflow. A wide variety of designs for ornaments, display structures, and balancing platforms permit limitless design themes for home, office, or any place where ceiling fans are used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2021
    Inventor: Margaret Marilyn Smith
  • Patent number: 11173336
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a smart weighted hula hoop including a first connecting frame, second connecting frames, and a connecting plate connected with a connecting head. The first connecting frame and the second connecting frames include protruding columns and fastening plates. Each protruding column is snapped on a corresponding fastening plate to make the first connecting frame connected to the second connecting frames. A housing is connected to the first connecting frame. A magnetic sensor is connected to the housing. The first connecting frame and the second connecting frame are connected to sleeves. The bottom end of each sleeve is connected to a respective spring. A fixing sleeve is arranged on each spring. Fixing sleeves are connected to top blocks. A connecting rope is arranged on the connecting head. The connecting rope passes through a lock ring. The lock ring passes through a tapered weight ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2021
    Inventor: Siyun Xu
  • Patent number: 11134701
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for coating the head of a lollipop with a coating material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Assignee: GEA FOOD SOLUTIONS WEERT B.V.
    Inventor: Bruno Gerfried Baumeister
  • Patent number: 11035068
    Abstract: Disclosed is a washing machine from which a diaphragm is removed. The washing machine includes a cabinet, a front panel configured to form an appearance of a front surface of the cabinet, a tub disposed in the cabinet to contain wash water, a tub seal installed to prevent leakage of the wash water contained in the tub, and a decorative panel fixed to the front panel to prevent exposure of the tub seal through the front surface of the cabinet. The washing machine may have an attractive appearance appealing to a user by mounting the decorative panel to prevent exposure of a sealing structure through the front surface thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hoon Wee, In Cheol Jang, Jeoung Kyo Jeoung
  • Patent number: 11037456
    Abstract: The present application relates to an apparatus for controllably rotating an object, such as a baseball or any sporting ball, and methods of using the apparatus for measurement of visual acuity and/or training. Specifically, in certain embodiments, an object is rotated at a selected revolutions per minute (RPM) and a subject's exposure to the rotating object is controlled by illumination and/or controlled exposure, and assessing a subject's ability to recognize the direction of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: AMERICAN UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Jonathan Newport, Arthur Shapiro
  • Patent number: 10984766
    Abstract: A sound generation angular velocity-adjustable twirling device detachably attaches to a fabric-article at a peripheral attachment point or a central attachment point and enables rotation of fabric-article. The fabric-article unfurls and twirls at a rate dependent on the center of gravity at different attachment points on fabric-article. A rod forms the central axis. A textured outer sleeve encapsulates the rod for secure grasping. A first axis positions in the outer sleeve, fixedly attaching to a first-rod end. A fastening mechanism rotates freely about the first axis while retaining the fabric-article. The rotating fastening mechanism and the stationary first axis form a rotational relationship with low friction coefficient. A second axis pins a strap to the second-rod end. The device generates sound while twirling through a gear assembly and/or percussion instruments. The sound generated is proportional to the angular velocity of the gear, and to the applied torque to the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: Krystian Sands
    Inventor: Krystian K. R. Sands
  • Patent number: 10863721
    Abstract: An animal dental care device and method. The device is a ring with inner and outer surfaces on each of which are disposed pluralities of teeth oriented to create channels. When used to care for an animal's dentition, the device is introduced to the animal, causing the animal to bite the device and engage its dentition onto the device's pluralities of teeth. The device is pulled and rotated, causing the animal to release and re-bite the device, playfully reengaging its dentition onto the teeth of the device, the device's teeth efficiently removing plaque and tartar buildup from the animal's dentition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Adam Urbanczyk
  • Patent number: 10569151
    Abstract: A body held sparring device configured for either striking or being hit with the addition of a secondary target. The secondary target is offset from the sparring tool and designed to yield when struck, rather than transmit dangerous torque to the body part holding the sparring tool. Additionally, the sparring tool can further incorporate additional sparring tools, additional secondary targets and or additional control body points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Inventor: Clarence V. Hall
  • Patent number: 10449466
    Abstract: The present invention is a spinner device adapted for use as a toy or amusement device and in relieving stress. The spinner device preferably includes a plurality of radially extending arms, each arm having a magnetic mass therein and being magnetically mass adjustable. The spinner device preferably includes a magnetically attachable and detachable base device that allows the spinner device to function as a top. The spinner device further preferably includes a magnetically attachable and detachable display stand device that allows the spinner device to be rotated or spun while being displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Inventor: Richard C. Kinmont, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10421029
    Abstract: A ring for performing magic tricks is provided that has a miniaturized vibration motor, an on/off switch, a power supply element, a metallic contact blade, on which the power supply element is positioned, and a printed circuit board which receives wiring to interconnect the battery and the motor on the other, thereby closing the circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Inventors: Leonnardo Ferreira Milanesi, Ronaldo Zanfirov Mezadri
  • Patent number: 10380906
    Abstract: The present application relates to an apparatus for controllably rotating an object, such as a baseball or any sporting ball, and methods of using the apparatus for measurement of visual acuity and/or training. Specifically, in certain embodiments, an object is rotated at a selected revolutions per minute (RPM) and a subject's exposure to the rotating object is controlled by illumination and/or controlled exposure, and assessing a subject's ability to recognize the direction of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: AMERICAN UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Jonathan Newport, Arthur Shapiro
  • Patent number: 10252178
    Abstract: A toy assembly includes: a platform configured to receive an object in a space extending from the platform; a dock configured to receive and hold a portable imaging device associated with a field of view, the dock being positioned relative to the platform such that the space extending from the platform overlaps with the field of view of the imaging device when the imaging device is received and held in the dock; a physical input configured to move in response to an applied manual force; and a movable connection between the physical input and the platform, the movable connection configured to move the platform relative to the imaging device in response to receiving a manual force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2019
    Assignee: Hasbro, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas Reid, William Gajda, Benjamin Parry Taylor
  • Patent number: 10239092
    Abstract: A method for printing on a low surface energy substrate. The low surface energy substrates may be flexible low surface energy substrates. A primer is applied to the surface of the low surface energy substrate using a spray coating system. A pressure pot spray system that oscillates as the substrate passes underneath it on a conveyor system may be used. The primer is then allowed to air dry. Once dry, a printer can be used to print a graphic, design or other ornamental feature on the primed surface of the substrate. Once printing is complete, a clear coating is applied to the substrate and then cured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: Hyperform, Inc.
    Inventor: Kurt Wilson
  • Patent number: 9555963
    Abstract: A diaper pail having a top chamber with top transparent doors, and a transparent outer casing, allowing a user to see the rotating inner barrel as it spins within the transparent outer casing. The inner barrel holds a disposable bag and as it rotates the inner barrel untwists the neck of the bag, thus opening the bag for a soiled diaper to fall into the bag from the top chamber, and then the bag returns to its original twisted closed configuration. The soiled diaper falls into the bag while the doors of the top chamber remain shut, keeping malodorous gas from escaping. The visual spectacles provided by this diaper pail also act to change infant and toddler behavior by associating diaper change with a fun and fascinating event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Inventor: Thomas E. McConnell
  • Patent number: 9468790
    Abstract: An oval exercise hoop for resistance training including an oval two-sectioned tubular sleeve, with the sections attachable to each other by a pair of diametrically opposed male end connectors engage the female ends of each section. The male end connectors are disposed proximal to, but not directly on, diametrically opposed apices of the sleeve. A hollow core, which is disposed within each sleeve section, is either unweighted or weighted with a weighted fill having a wide range of densities and materials that provide a selected weight from a wide range of aggregate weights so as to require a selected amount of energy to rotate the sleeve around a user's waist and torso.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Inventor: Robert T. Snead
  • Patent number: 9434537
    Abstract: A diaper pail having a top chamber with top transparent doors, and a transparent outer casing, allowing a user to see the rotating inner barrel as it spins within the transparent outer casing. The inner barrel holds a disposable bag and as it rotates the inner barrel untwists a neck of bag, thus opens the bag for a dirty diaper to fall into the bag from the top chamber. The dirty diaper falls into the bag while the doors of the top chamber remain shut, keeping malodorous gas from escaping. The visual spectacles provided by this diaper pail also act to change infant and toddler behavior by associating diaper change to a fun and fascinating event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas E McConnell
  • Patent number: 9327205
    Abstract: A kinetic entertainment device comprises one or more elongated flexible strips anchored to a surface either directly or via a base. As a result, the strip can be modified into a desired static shape and, upon excitation, a corresponding kinetic (i.e., motion) shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2016
    Inventor: Christopher Gongolas
  • Patent number: 9220992
    Abstract: To provide a game device capable of sending air into a bag-shaped elastic sheet, even if distance is required between a blower or other air sending means and the elastic sheet. The present invention is a game device comprising a game device main body, an air flowpath that receives air sent by an air sending means, and an elastic sheet. The game device is characterized by the elastic sheet being formed in a bag shape that is expanded by air that is sent in from the air flowpath, and the elastic sheet being supported by the air flowpath formed using part of the frame of the game device main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: BLD Oriental, Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
  • Publication number: 20150079871
    Abstract: All-shape building blocks may be shaped as platonic solids. All-Shape building blocks include a flange on each tetrahedron edge, where each flange and each tetrahedron vertex may include magnetic materials (e.g., magnets, ferromagnetic metals). All-Shape building block flanges may be used to capture kinetic energy from a fluid. Multiple All-Shape building blocks may be combined to form larger structures, and the included magnetic materials may be used to retain the formed geometric structure shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: T. Dashon Howard
  • Patent number: 8920209
    Abstract: A toy apparatus having a lower base, an upper base and a doll cover for the upper base where the lower base and the upper base attach and detach with an easy twisting motion. The lower base encloses a flywheel on a shaft, and a passageway for a rack and includes a cover with an outside screw thread. The upper base is either empty or encloses three switches, a sound generator, a light source, a controller printed circuit board, and a battery chamber and includes a cover with an inside screw thread that mates with the screw thread of the lower base. The toy apparatus has two primary play modes, a first mode where the lower base, the upper base and the cover are connected and a user uses the rack to spin the flywheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Hasbro, Inc.
    Inventors: Meredith Brooks, Dean Carley, Sean Carmine Isabella
  • Patent number: 8870621
    Abstract: An inertial dynamic toy is disclosed comprising: an annular housing having a circumferential groove: a flywheel mounted to a flywheel support axle, the flywheel support axle configured to be retained inside the annular housing; and an outrigger support frame releasably attached to the annular housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: OAK Novations, Ltd.
    Inventor: Viktor Kaye
  • Publication number: 20140227940
    Abstract: A device providing a spinning ornamental design is provided. The device includes a fixed post, a spinning unit, and an electric motor. The spinning unit includes the ornamental design and a solar panel. The electrical motor receives power from the solar panel and includes a stator housing attached to the spinning unit and a rotor shaft fixed to the fixed post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: Timothy Ray Jones
  • Patent number: 8721387
    Abstract: A novelty and confection rotating device includes a main housing having an electric motor and a power supply. The electric motor drives a first drive shaft at a first rpm. A rotatable object is connected to this first drive shaft. A gear apparatus is then connected to the first drive shaft and to a second drive shaft. The gear apparatus reduces the rotational speed from the first rpm of the first shaft to a slower, second rpm of the second drive shaft. The difference between the first rpm and second rpm is substantial.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventors: Princess Ann Coleman, Thomas J. Coleman
  • Publication number: 20140106641
    Abstract: A backspin toy includes a running body including a flywheel, a starting base including a starting unit, and a torque giving unit. The torque giving unit gives torque to travel backward to the flywheel in a state in which the running body is kept on the starting base. The starting unit hits the running body so as to give force to travel forward to the running body in a state in which the torque is given to the flywheel, thereby catapulting the running body forward with backspin. The running body including the flywheel, to which the torque is given, and being catapulted forward, travels backward by the torque given to the flywheel in response to reaching a limit point of the force to travel forward.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: Tomy Company, Ltd
    Inventor: Takashi ICHIKAWA
  • Patent number: 8678874
    Abstract: A combination for use as a collectible item or a game piece includes a collectible miniature figurine and a first game assembly. The collectible miniature figurine includes a figure body and a figure base that retains and supports the figure body. The first game assembly includes a first game base that is selectively attachable to and detachable from the figure base without deforming either of the bases. Further, the figure base is selectively rotatable relative to the first game base when the figure base is attached to the first game base. Still further, the figure base can be selectively rotatable relative to the first game base in a step-like fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: The Upper Deck Company
    Inventors: Justin Gary, Bill Atkinson
  • Publication number: 20140030953
    Abstract: A stick ornament comprising a stick; a first ornament body arranged above the stick; a second ornament body arranged below the first ornament body; and a rotational device which holds and rotates the stick is provided. By rotating the stick by the rotational device, the first ornament body and the second ornament body rotate and a first band-shaped member and a second band-shaped member rotate and transform to display various shapes. When the rotating direction of the stick is inverted by the rotational device, the images change.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: Hologram Supply Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Iwao Tanigawa
  • Publication number: 20140017972
    Abstract: A hoop for play and/or exercise is formed of plural layers of plastic of different colors, with openings in the upper layer permitting the colored underlayer to show through the openings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Applicant: MAUI TOYS, INC
    Inventor: Brian KESSLER
  • Publication number: 20140011427
    Abstract: A yo-yo construction includes balls, wheels or the like as exterior elements, which balls, wheels or the like have a high bounce ability, and are preferably inflated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: Brian KESSLER
  • Publication number: 20140011426
    Abstract: A mobile or stabile has rotatable elements comprising a solar cell, a beam, and an electric motor. The solar cell is electrically connected to the electric motor in the same rotatable element. The rotatable elements are linked by attaching the rotating shaft of the electric motor of one rotatable element to the beam of the rotatable element above. Each rotatable element produces its own movement. When a solar cell receives light it powers the connected electric motor to rotate its rotatable element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Publication date: January 9, 2014
    Inventor: Lloyd Kent Konneker
  • Patent number: 8607541
    Abstract: A chain includes a plurality of links, each link has a first end having a knob and an opposite second end having a cavity, wherein the cavity is shaped and dimensioned to receive the knob of a mating link. The links are joined together knob-to-cavity to form a chain wherein the links can both axially and transversely rotate. In an embodiment, each link has a neck which receives a collar. In another embodiment, a wire is passed through a tunnel in all the links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Victor Vito Cavuoti
  • Patent number: 8597070
    Abstract: A plant imitating device includes a body having a compartment and an opening in communication with the compartment. A driving unit is mounted in the compartment and includes a transmission member. A plant imitating unit is mounted in the compartment and includes an end facing the opening of the body. The plant imitating unit is engaged with the transmission member by a mounting portion. The plant imitating unit is movable relative to the transmission member. A control unit is electrically connected to the driving unit. The control unit controls the driving unit to cause the end of the plant imitating unit to move beyond the body via the opening. Thus, the end of the plant imitating unit gradually extends beyond the opening to imitate the growth of a plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: National Pingtung University of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Chung-Liang Chang, Ming-Fong Sie
  • Patent number: 8568191
    Abstract: A toy vehicle which may have the capability to raise and lower a spin mechanism within the vehicle to lift the vehicle up off of a surface and spin the vehicle in a top-like manner when the spin mechanism is charged. The vehicle may further include a chassis with a cavity to house the spin mechanism and a release mechanism to direct the spin mechanism to lower a spin shaft below wheels on the vehicle. Energy may be generated in a power drive system and transferred to the vehicle via a transfer gear in the spin mechanism. Another embodiment of the vehicle may also transforms between multiple configurations, including a spinning top, and utilizes a launch mechanism to spin the vehicle in a top-like manner. This embodiment may further include a sliding front segment, a sliding rear segment, two sliding side segments and a receiving cavity. When the sliding front segment and rear segment move toward one another, the two side segments are pushed outward and direct a spin shaft downward to extend below the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Rehco, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey Rehkemper, Ryan Kratz, Phillip H Fensel
  • Patent number: 8517790
    Abstract: A transforming vehicle and launch system where the vehicle transforms between multiple configurations including a spinning top. The vehicle includes sliding front and rear segments, two sliding side segments and a receiving cavity. The launch mechanism includes a rotating launch shaft in communication with a power system and a release button. The power system includes the capability to generate and store energy. When the front and rear segments move toward one another, the two side segments are pushed outward directing a central shaft downward below the vehicle. The receiving cavity receives the launch shaft and transfers energy from the power system to the vehicle when it rotates. Energy generated and stored in the power system is transferred to the second configuration via the rotation of the launch shaft when a release button is triggered such that the vehicle separates and spins on the central shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Rehco, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey Rehkemper, Ryan Kratz
  • Patent number: 8500509
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Inventor: Juan Carlos Orozco
  • Publication number: 20130178131
    Abstract: An apparatus that includes a core body, a rotational spring motor and several flexible limbs. One of the flexible limbs is the, “the drive arm” and connects to the motor inside the body. The drive arm has a connection point at the other end (hand) that allows it to connect to other like toys.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Inventor: Karl Wudtke
  • Patent number: 8480450
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved hoop-type amusement device adapted with a counter for counting the number of revolutions achieved by the user. The counter is preferably adapted for attachment to any of a variety of hoop type devices, including the HULA HOOP, as well as specially configured hoop type devices, such as the type that may be formed from a plurality of variously sized and shaped connectable components that are selectively interconnected by the user to form a simple or complex hoop configuration of a particular desired size and shape. The counter functions to count the number of revolutions achieved by the user thereby allowing the user to monitor and gage performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Nancy Mendel
  • Patent number: 8430711
    Abstract: An infant play gym including a mat, a first arched structure extending over the mat, a second arched structure extending over the mat, and a motion module. The motion module includes a housing couplable to both the first arched structure and the second arched structure, a power source, and a motor positioned within the housing and powered by the power source, the motor operable to cause the first and second arched structures to move with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Learning Curve Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen Paul Chininis, Melvin Ray Kennedy, Jose Longoria
  • Publication number: 20130078885
    Abstract: A toy launcher that can launch multiple consecutive devices into a spin is described. The toy launcher includes a housing adapted to receive an item to be launched. The housing includes a bunching mechanism to force the item from the launcher. Additionally, a protrusion is positioned in front of the launching mechanism such that art item launched from the launching mechanism engages with the protrusion, forcing the item into a spin as it exits the launcher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon Hudson, Dominic Laurienzo, Dennis Lee Chi Wai, Timmy Tsui Ka Tim
  • Publication number: 20130045658
    Abstract: The customizable yo-yo system of the present invention makes available a plurality of yo-yos, e.g. two yo-yos or three or more yo-yos, which can easily be disassembled and reassembled to make a set of custom yo-yos. Each of the custom yo-yo has a unique set of performance characteristics selected by the user's preference and skill level. In addition, each of the yo-yos parts are color coded to indicate its associated skill level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2012
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventors: Joyce Amaral, Todd Rywolt, John Marcantonio
  • Patent number: 8342901
    Abstract: A lighted translucent hoop instrument is disclosed. This ruggedly constructed rechargeable hoop comes in a wide range of sizes, designed for a greater scope of movement and function than the “hula-hoop”. It collapses for travel and can be assembled in seconds. Mechanical switches and/or electronic sensors, accelerometers, circuits and programs make the hoop motion-sensitive, and control onboard lights to generate varying and repeatable colors, shapes, patterns and trails, based on the performance of the user. The signals generated by the onboard sensors can also be sent by radio to a computer. These signals modulate existing music, and also synthesize distinct sounds, combinations of sounds and visual displays. The hoop thus becomes an interactive instrument/controller played by the whole body, creating coherent signals synchronized with motion. It is a tool for exercise, entertainment, communication, expression, juggling, dance, performance and play—by both children and adults.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Patrick Deluz
  • Publication number: 20120264348
    Abstract: The present invention provides an improved hoop-type amusement device adapted with a counter for counting the number of revolutions achieved by the user. The counter is preferably adapted for attachment to any of a variety of hoop type devices, including the HULA HOOP, as well as specially configured hoop type devices, such as the type that may be formed from a plurality of variously sized and shaped connectable components that are selectively interconnected by the user to form a simple or complex hoop configuration of a particular desired size and shape. The counter functions to count the number of revolutions achieved by the user thereby allowing the user to monitor and gage performance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Nancy Mendel
  • Patent number: 8282437
    Abstract: A set includes a launchable doll having a body portion and wings fixed to the body portion between a torso portion and a waist portion of the body portion to impart aerodynamic lift to the doll when the doll is rotated and the legs are fixed into a substantially vertical orientation when the wings are fixed to the body portion; and a launcher including a base, a tube that contains the legs and a mechanism that rotates the tube and the doll with respect to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Genie Toys plc
    Inventors: Casey W. Norman, David Gamlin, Tony Thatcher
  • Publication number: 20120196501
    Abstract: A play and/or exercise hoop is formed by a hollow tube containing hard particles, wherein the hollow tube has a non-circular internal cross-section, preferably adjacent flat surfaces, whereby the hard beads fall from one surface to another as the hoop is rotated about the body, so as to produce the sound of falling rain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Applicant: MAUI TOYS, INC.
    Inventor: Brian D. KESSLER
  • Publication number: 20120171924
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to a children's toy configured for moving one or more loose objects in a manner that is entertaining to a child. In various embodiments, the children's toy includes a housing having an inlet that permits a child to place one or more loose objects (e.g., toy balls) in the housing. The toy further includes a drive system configured to drive such loose objects through the housing along a helical path and out of the housing through an outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Inventors: Robert Karnick, Jeffrey MacDonald
  • Patent number: 8205368
    Abstract: A novel spinner trophy that includes a supporting base and a decorative member connected to the supporting base for rotation with respect thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Plastic Dress-Up Co.
    Inventor: John Banman
  • Patent number: 8128454
    Abstract: A toy with a launcher to rotate and launch an object is described. Attached within housing, the launcher comprises a driving element to form a drive connection with a receiving element on the object. The launcher is connected with a launcher rotating system, which imparts a rotary movement to the launcher. An energy storing system is mounted inside the housing and drivingly connected with the launcher rotating system. The energy storing system is configured to store potential energy, where upon release, the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy to actuate the launcher rotating system. Thus, user may use the toy to rotate and launch an object from the toy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Rosenblum
  • Patent number: 8123586
    Abstract: An exercise gaming device in which the user stands in front of a housing having a plurality of rows of lights extending from the front of the housing to the rear of the housing. The rows of lights are sequentially illuminated to give the illusion that the lights are an illuminated light rope over which the user must jump. There is a sensor in the jump area that is electrically connected to the illuminated lights to determine if the user jumps at the correct time when the lights at the bottom of the housing are illuminated. The device continues to rotate the light rope as long as the user continues jumping at the appropriate time, or until the game ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Assignee: Dell Electronics Laboratories, Ltd.
    Inventor: George Dell
  • Publication number: 20120028537
    Abstract: This invention will be used as a novelty item for sporting, school, team events or just to show overall spirit. It is a handheld device that can be operated by pressing an on/off switch which will in turn cause the Styrofoam ball on top of the base to rotate. The speed of the “Spirit Ball” will vary depending on how long the on/off switch is depressed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Inventor: Reginald Carson