By Radio Signal Patents (Class 446/456)
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Patent number: 7491111Abstract: An interactive play device, method and apparatus, is disclosed which includes means to generate a plurality of interactions, entry control means, means to store responses to interactions and control means to select the next interaction based on memorized responses. One object of this invention is to provide a new class of interactive play devices, which is founded on personalizing a play device so that its current functionality is based on past interactions with a player rather than providing an identical operation or a randomly activated function each time the device is turned “on.” The invention also provides a plurality of toy devices, which operate in a plurality of states that mimic human behavior. A preferred embodiment discloses an interactive doll device, which generates interactions that require responses from the player. The responses are memorized by the doll device and are used to select the next interaction.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2005Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Inventor: Nabil N. Ghaly
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Publication number: 20080318491Abstract: Disclosed is an automobile toy, including: a first chassis to support an axle of a front wheel; and a second chassis to support an axle of a rear wheel, wherein the first and second chassis are rotatably connected with each other by a rotating shaft that lies along a width direction of the automobile toy, and a spring for biasing the first and second chassis is arranged between the first and second chassis, so as to bias the front wheel and the rear wheel to an approaching direction to the ground.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2008Publication date: December 25, 2008Applicant: TOMY COMPANY, LTD.Inventors: Noriyuki Ishibashi, Yoshio Suimon
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Publication number: 20080311821Abstract: A remote control chasing toy composed at least of an escaping article capable of moving actively, and at least a chasing article manipulated with a remote control device by a user. Wherein the escaping articles each has an ability to detect whether a chasing article gets close, when it detects that a chasing article gets close, it can automatically change its moving speed or direction, so that a user must manipulates more accurately in order that the chasing article can get the escaping article and to increase an effect of amusement of a game.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2007Publication date: December 18, 2008Inventor: Yu-Min Hu
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Publication number: 20080280527Abstract: A traveling toy and a radio-controlled traveling toy having a transmission which brings about an operational feeling like a real car is provided. Under a shift lever 4, there is provided a gear box 10 that covers the motor unit and is secured to a chassis rear portion 6, and a rear wheel shaft 8 extends through the gear box 10 covering a motor unit, with a crank box 12 being disposed on the gear box 10. A second slider 14 is disposed on the crank box 12, a first slider 16 is disposed on the second slider 14, and a shift shaft 18, which is a shaft portion of a shift lever 4, stands vertically from the first slider 16. On top of the shift shaft 18, a grasping section 20 is disposed to control the shift lever 4.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2008Publication date: November 13, 2008Applicant: NIKKO CO., LTD.Inventors: Shigeharu SATO, Nobuo Imai
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Patent number: 7410404Abstract: A driving device (2) which is remotely controlled by a transmitter (1) holds a first parameter (D) and a second parameter (L), transmits an offense signal based on the first parameter (D), and changes the second parameter (L) according to information included in a received specified signal. A remote control system can realize a battle game where the transmitter (1) and the driving device (2) play against another pair of a driving device (2) and a transmitter (1), the driving device (2) receives the offense signal transmitted from the other driving device (2) as the specified signal, and the second parameter (L) is changed according to the information included in the specified signal can be realized in a remote control toy system. In the system, the transmitter (1) allows a control signal to include specified information according to a user's specified operation, and the driving device (2) changes the its own first parameter (D) based on the specified information in the control signal.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2004Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Assignee: Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kazuyuki Saeki
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Patent number: 7407424Abstract: A flying toy can determine its orientation and position in a space by calculating the distance to three reference points on the ground. The flying toy uses three ultrasonic transmitters as the three reference points. The distance to each ultrasonic transmitter is calculated by a microprocessor integrated in the flying toy which records the time it takes for the ultrasonic signal to travel from each of the ultrasonic transmitters to the flying toy. Once the distances to each of the ultrasonic transmitters are known, the microcontroller in the flying toy determines the position in space of the flying toy using trilateration methods. The flying toy can fly on autopilot according to predetermined regions, and prevent crashes by using is positioning data.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2005Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: Silverlit Toys Manufactory, Ltd.Inventor: Kei Fung Choi
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Patent number: 7393260Abstract: A controller (2) which transmits code signals in accordance with operation contents of a user, a drive unit (1) driven and controlled based on the code signals, and an extension unit (10) detachably mounted on the controller (2) are provided. A code signal obtaining device (31, 51, and 52) for obtaining the code signals output from the controller (2) and a process performing device (30 and 61) for deciding a state of the drive unit (1) based on the obtained code signals to perform a predetermined process based on the decision result are provided in the extension unit (10).Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2004Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Assignee: Konami CorporationInventor: Takashi Yamaguchi
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Publication number: 20080141776Abstract: There are included a movable body on which an ultrasonic wave signal output part for producing and outputting an ultrasonic wave signal of a particular frequency is mounted; an ultrasonic wave signal reception part for receiving the outputted ultrasonic wave signal; a determination part for determining the difference between the frequency of the ultrasonic wave signal received by the ultrasonic wave signal reception part and the particular frequency; a calculation part for calculating the speed of the movable body from a signal of the determination difference; and a display part for displaying a result of the calculation.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2004Publication date: June 19, 2008Applicant: Nikko Co., Ltd.Inventor: Toyozo Kato
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Patent number: 7379794Abstract: A remote control system to remote control a plurality of moving machines and to cause interaction based on communication among the moving machines without complexity and an increase in electric power consumption. A transmitting device of data containing operation control information and communication control information, and a device which specifies a transmission timing from the data from another transmitter and a transmission schedule, are provided. A controlling device controls operation on the basis of operation control information and transmission to another moving machine on the basis of communication control information at the time of receipt from the transmitter and executes a predetermined process at the time of receipt from another moving machine. The controlling device specifies a self transmission timing from the data from the transmitter and the transmission schedule, and transmits it. A transmission schedule stipulates respective transmission timings such that they do not overlap.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2002Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Assignee: Konami CorporationInventors: Ryoji Hayashi, Takashi Yamaguchi
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Publication number: 20080113800Abstract: A game has one or more remotely controlled game vehicles that are each controlled by an operator interface. The game includes a visually controlled computer that senses the remotely controlled game vehicle or vehicles visually and controls each remotely controlled game vehicle using visually sensed input and input from its operator interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 18, 2006Publication date: May 15, 2008Applicant: ROBOTIC AMUSEMENTS, INC.Inventors: Michael A. Ciavaglia, Joseph M. Johnson, Maurice Tedder, Thomas J. Timpf Jr.
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Patent number: 7344430Abstract: An operation control system for an electrically powered and remotely controlled vehicle to be occupied by a child with a steering mechanism to be engaged and disengaged for either local or remote control. A remote control device for selectively controlling the direction and speed of the vehicle. A remote control receiver in the vehicle for receiving control signals from the remote control device and generating steering mechanism and speed control signals. A drive motor for driving the wheels of the vehicle and responsive to the speed control signals; and a steering motor for controlling the direction of movement of the vehicle and responsive to the steering mechanism control signals.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2005Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Inventors: Christopher M. Hasty, Alan G. Sanders
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Publication number: 20080064296Abstract: A pivoting mechanism for a vehicle such as a radio control toy vehicle includes a rotating element loosely mounted on a wheel axle and extending slightly beyond the wheel radius. When the vehicle moves forward, the rotating element rotates up out of the way and does not create substantial friction with the ground. When the vehicle moves in reverse, the rotating element catches the ground, which causes the rotating element to kick up underneath the vehicle into a generally downward position, thus raising the vehicle up onto the rotating element rather its associated wheel, which causes the vehicle to turn sharply about the rotating element. A stop prevents the rotating element from rotating past its vertically downward position. When the vehicle moves forward again, the rotating element automatically rotates up again out of the way so that the vehicle drives forward in a substantially straight line.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2007Publication date: March 13, 2008Applicant: MGA Entertainment, Inc.Inventor: Brady Lang
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Publication number: 20080026671Abstract: Remotely controlled devices (110) are controlled by one or more wireless remote controllers (114). The remotely controlled devices (110) and wireless remote controllers (114) communicate to each other over a two-way wireless link. The system and method provide pre-defined profiles that limit the performance of the remotely controlled devices (110) in order to provide different operating characteristics with the same remotely controlled devices (110). The system and method further provide one or more forms of feedback to a user of the wireless remote controller (114), such as sounds, vibration, and the like. The feedback can be provided in response to detected events associated with the remotely control device (110), such as sharp turns and the like. The performance limits of the remotely controlled devices (110) is also able to be modified with operating time in order to simulate, for example, improved driver skills, fuel depletion and/or pit stops.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2005Publication date: January 31, 2008Applicant: MOTOROLA, INC.Inventors: Sybren D. Smith, Stephen O. Bozzone, Joseph L. Dvorak, David J. Hayes, Von A. Mock
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Patent number: 7309273Abstract: A controller for a radio-controlled toy, comprising a housing, a first interface disposed on a first side of the housing, a second interface disposed on a second side of the housing, and a steering wheel having a steering shaft, the steering shaft being adapted to be inserted into either of the first and second interfaces.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Radioshack CorporationInventor: Nobuaki Ogihara
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Patent number: 7303459Abstract: The toy system includes: a pair of motors; an operating device having a throttle lever for velocity direction and a steering device for course direction; a driving control device for controlling driving velocities of the respective motors so that the driving velocity of the pair of motors is varied in association with an operation amount of the throttle lever, and when the steering is operated from a neutral position, a difference occurs between the driving velocities of the pair of motors at a velocity ratio in association with the operation amount of the steering; a setting device for accepting a setting operation of a predetermined parameter by a user. The driving control device changes a correspondence relationship between the operation amount of the steering and the velocity ratio in an interlocking manner with the change of the setting value of the parameter.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2001Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Konami CorporationInventor: Takashi Yamaguchi
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Patent number: 7291053Abstract: A radio-controlled toy two-wheeled vehicle where a front wheel support body is installed on a vehicle body without steering angle limitation and a doll portion is installed swingably on the upper part of the vehicle. The doll portion is moved by radio control vertically to an advance direction of the vehicle and parallel in a horizontal direction with respect to the vehicle body, so that steering is made by tilting the front wheel support body through the movement of doll's gravity center caused by the parallel movement of the doll. A doll movement control portion and travel control of the two-wheeled vehicle are conducted by radio. The doll movement control portion is mounted on the middle of the two-wheeled vehicle. A drive portion for driving the doll is fitted loosely in a hole portion cut in a doll's torso portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2003Date of Patent: November 6, 2007Assignee: Nikko Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kenji Mukaida
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Patent number: 7288917Abstract: A mobile toy is described. The mobile toy includes a wheel assembly having a hubcap for removably engaging a wheel of the wheel assembly. The mobile toy may also include a transmitter having a charging pad for charging of a radio-controlled embodiment of the toy. The transmitter comprises an indicator showing certain states of the toy as well as a storage compartment for housing items associated with the toy. Additional embodiments include an assembly for retaining the toy on the charging pad during charging of the toy. A kit for storing the components of the radio-controlled embodiment of the toy is also described.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2002Date of Patent: October 30, 2007Assignee: Radio Shack CorporationInventors: Harrelson Art, Wai Hui
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Patent number: 7261615Abstract: A remotely controlled toy vehicle appears to drift when turning, appearing to slide into the turn, by having a rear driving platform that swivels under a main body of a chassis. In addition to making the chassis appear to slide, the rear driving platform induces a tilt of the chassis into the turn, simulating a car suspension shifting toward the slide. Dummy rear wheels attached to pivoting trailing arms assist in obscuring the rear driving platform and make the toy vehicle appear more realistic. Castoring front wheels further enhance the drifting effect.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2004Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Assignee: Bang Zoom Design Ltd., LLCInventors: Michael Hoeting, Neil Hamilton
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Publication number: 20070167105Abstract: Various degradation features are disclosed for a remotely controlled vehicle. Translatable body components are disclosed for simulating damage to a vehicle. Impact sensors may be provided for detecting an impact to the vehicle and modifying operation of the vehicle in response to an impact. A timer may be provided for hampering operations of the vehicle as a function of time for simulating real life conditions. Controls, and methods associated with these features are disclosed as well as games for utilizing the degradation features.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2006Publication date: July 19, 2007Inventors: Marc Lorelli, Michael D. Turner
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Patent number: 7243053Abstract: A virtual scale model operating environment for controlling operational scale models. The virtual scale model operating environment includes a virtual controller that provides simulated environmental parameters normally associated with real operation. The virtual controller can display a simulated measure of the simulated environmental parameters to a user. Control of the operational scale model by a user is altered by the virtual controller in response to the simulated environmental parameters. The simulated environmental parameters vary due to various factors including the operation of the scale model by a user in order to provide more realistic play. The virtual controller further provides sound effects and phrases from a virtual voice through its own speakers or through headphones. The virtual controller has a microcontroller executing software algorithms to provide the simulated environmental parameters and alter actual control of the operational scale model.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 1999Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: Shoot the Moon Products II, LLCInventor: David Small
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Patent number: 7235013Abstract: In a game machine, platen dots are provided on a traveling field. A plurality of self-propelled members are provided on the traveling field. Each self-propelled member includes a first linear motor and a second linear motor for respectively propelling the self-propelled member in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to each other. A miniature member is coupled with a motor so as to be rotatably supported on each self-propelled member. A controller controls the motor such that a rotated angle of the miniature member is determined in accordance with a propelling direction of the self-propelled member.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2001Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignee: Konami CorporationInventor: Yusuke Kobayashi
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Patent number: 7234990Abstract: A remote-controlled toy vehicle includes a plurality of road wheels supporting the toy vehicle for movement. A driving motor is selectively reversible between first and second directions of rotation and is drivingly connected to at least one of the road wheels through a drive mechanism. The drive mechanism operates in at least two modes, such that operation of the driving motor in either of its opposing directions of rotation causes rotation of the at least one road wheel to propel the toy vehicle in only a forward vehicle direction. A second motor can provide braking action or a third mode of forward vehicle propulsion.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2005Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignee: Mattle, Inc.Inventors: Vladimir Leonov, Nathan Bloch, Donald L. Balkie
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Patent number: 7234992Abstract: A toy vehicle including at least an on-board power supply, a plurality of wheels supporting the vehicle for itinerant movement, at least one motor operably coupled to at least one of the wheels to provide at least part of an itinerant movement, at least one light and a controller circuit configured to selectively supply power from the power supply to the motor(s) in response to commands from a transmitter remote from the toy vehicle and to selectively supply power to the at least one light in response to a signal indicating the vehicle is performing a particular maneuver, for example, either a special stunt or a transformation or both.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2003Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Stephen N. Weiss, Eric D. Listenberger, Joseph T. Moll
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Patent number: 7220160Abstract: A gun grip controller includes a rod-shaped controller body having a trigger-shaped lever and a steering dial or the like, for controlling a model car or the like, and a grip provided to protrude from the controller body. The grip is arranged so as to be rotatably attached to the controller body and also adapted so as to allow an occupation of both a protrusive position where the grip protrudes from the controller body in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction of the controller body, and a folded position where the grip is folded along the longitudinal direction of the controller body and adjacent to the outside of the controller body. Therefore, it is possible for the controller to occupy a compact configuration for packing and carrying purposes, in spite of its “gun-grip” configuration.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2002Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: CCP Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tohru Kiuchi
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Patent number: 7214119Abstract: An inflatable remote control vehicle having a wheel-less inflatable vehicle body attached to a remotely controlled base unit and fully functional chassis having a plurality of visually functional wheels. The inflatable vehicle body includes a plurality of wheel well areas for accommodating the functional wheels of the base unit and allowing the functionality of wheels to be seen by a viewer. The remote control vehicle preferably includes a rigid support structure connected to a bottom surface of the inflatable vehicle body, where the rigid support structure is then attached to the remotely controlled base unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2004Date of Patent: May 8, 2007Assignee: Isotech, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey T. Lucas, Eric McClure
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Patent number: 7202806Abstract: A transmitter for radio control with rotary control means on its both sides is provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2001Date of Patent: April 10, 2007Assignee: Nikko Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kenji Mukaida
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Patent number: 7172488Abstract: A toy vehicle comprises a lift mechanism which allows the toy vehicle to be lifted from a support surface in a lifting motion and roll end over end over end. The lift mechanism includes a lift arm pivotally mounted to a housing of the toy vehicle. A lift arm actuating motor is coupled to a lift arm drive screw that is in threaded engagement with a lift arm drive nut. A strut is coupled between the drive nut and the lift arm. In operation, the lift arm actuating motor drives the lift arm drive screw and causes the lift arm drive nut to drive the strut and move the lift arm into an extended position, causing the lift arm to engage a support surface to lift the toy vehicle. In the extended position, the toy vehicle is sufficiently rounded to permit the vehicle to roll end over end over end.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2004Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Joseph T. Moll, Justin Discoe, Vladimir Leonov, Nathan Bloch, John M. Clements, Gregory Garneau
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Patent number: 7128634Abstract: A radio-controlled car convertible from a two-wheel drive configuration to a four-wheel drive configuration is described. The radio-controlled car includes a chassis, a first drive assembly positioned in a first portion of the chassis, and a modular second drive assembly adapted to be inserted into a second portion of the chassis to modify the radio-controlled car to a four-wheel drive configuration.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2003Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Assignee: RadioShack CorporationInventor: Nobuaki Ogihara
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Patent number: 7121917Abstract: A remotely controlled concealed attack toy vehicle has a relatively normal appearance when the hood is closed; and arrangements are provided for raising the hood, and an armed attack figure is also raised, to present a threatening posture. The vehicle may have two rear drive wheels, which are independently operable by separate motors in the forward or reverse directions to permit rapid swiveling. A third idler wheel may be provided toward the front of the vehicle. A third motor may be provided to raise and lower the hood and the action figure, with an optional lost motion mechanism for delayed raising of the attack figure.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2004Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Assignee: MGA Entertainment, Inc.Inventors: Christopher Hardouin, Ami N. Shapiro, Kevin M. Bloomfield, Yuval Caspi
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Patent number: 7101250Abstract: Provided is a transmitter that includes a channel selector for modifying an operating frequency of a radio-controlled toy. The transmitter has a channel selection switch that enables a user to pick a channel from a set of predefined channels. The selected channel is then transferred to the toy. For example, a microcontroller unit within the transmitter may be used to detect the selected channel. The toy is placed in contact with the transmitter and the transmitter's microcontroller unit communicates the channel to a microcontroller unit inside the toy. The toy's microcontroller stores the channel in a memory in the toy. The toy then tunes to the stored frequency to receive control signals from the transmitter.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2003Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Radioshack CorporationInventors: Man Tai Vincent Lam, Man Lung Lam, Sze Ming Patrick Kwong
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Patent number: 7062367Abstract: The control system includes a microprocessor based radio frequency receiver module and a radio frequency handset transmitter module. The microprocessor receives a specific input from the remote transmitter. The handset transmitter module contains two joysticks. Two different sets of eight peripheral initiating positions are located in a circular formation with one of the joysticks at the center of each circular formation. Each initiating position activates a switch. Each switch activates a different radio frequency (RF) signal that activates a particular vehicle actuator.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2001Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Inventor: Boo Y Kim
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Patent number: 7056185Abstract: A wireless remote controlled rover (100) having a circular outer boundary when viewed in profile, comprising an elongated round-profile frame (20) outfitted with a pair of omnidirectional wheels (101L,R), rotatable in opposite directions by a drive system (50), for steering. Each of omnidirectional wheels (101L,R) comprises a set of secondary wheels (150L,R) akin to large diameter hollow flexible shafts arcuately bent and distributed in a polar array about corresponding hubs (82L,R). The secondary wheels (150L,R) are rotatable by the drive system (50) for longitudinal thrust of rover (100). A user controls the steering and thrust actions via remote control (166) for navigation and to compensate for incidental inertial rolling/careening effects of the two-wheel round-profile rover (100) while in motion. An onboard intelligent electronic processing unit (33) uses sensory feedback for autopilot, or assistive navigation, during certain scenarios such as performing user-requested optimum stopping maneuvers.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2004Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Inventor: Thomas Anagnostou
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Patent number: 7033241Abstract: A toy vehicle has a chassis, at least a first drive wheel rotatably attached to the chassis and at least a first link having a first end pivotally coupled with the chassis. At least a first non-powered wheel is operably coupled with the second opposing end of the first link. The first link has two operative positions: a first, fully-retracted operating configuration in which the first link is wrapped at least partially around the chassis crossing the drive wheel axis of rotation and a second, extended operating configuration in which the first link is pivoted away and extended from the chassis. A second link can be pivotally coupled between and with the chassis and first link. Forces acting on the toy vehicle resulting from driving the first drive wheel can cause each link to pivot with respect to the chassis.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2003Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Jason C. Lee, Justin Discoe, Nathan Bloch
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Patent number: 7018265Abstract: An interactive play device, method and apparatus, is disclosed which includes means to generate a plurality of interactions, entry control means, means to store responses to interactions and control means to select the next interaction based on memorized responses. One object of this invention is to provide a new class of interactive play devices, which is founded on personalizing a play device so that its current functionality is based on past interactions with a player rather than providing an identical operation or a randomly activated function each time the device is turned “on.” The invention also provides a plurality of toy devices, which operate in a plurality of states that mimic human behavior. A preferred embodiment discloses an interactive doll device, which generates interactions that require responses from the player. The responses are memorized by the doll device and are used to select the next interaction.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Inventor: Nabil N. Ghaly
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Patent number: 7018266Abstract: A tricycle-type wind-propelled toy land vehicle includes a sail with reliable tangle-free boom control. Both the disposition of the boom and the front wheel steering is actuated by a radio frequency remote control system. The vehicle further includes a skid plate surrounding the front wheel to prevent tip-over. The front wheel is steered by a worm gear drive which is self-locking. Boom control is provided by a guided cable system or, in an alternate embodiment, a direct gear drive to rotate the mast. In yet another embodiment, boom control is provided by a sliding leaf spring which passes underneath the boom and attaches to a track on the underside of the boom.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2004Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Inventor: John J. Sinisi
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Patent number: 7018264Abstract: A remote controlled toy. The toy includes a powered projectile that can be launched from a remote controlled vehicle. The powered projectile and remote controlled vehicle may each have a motor controlled by a radio frequency (“RF”) transmitter. The projectile can be shaped as an airplane that is loaded into a launch platform of the remote controlled vehicle. The user can control movement of the vehicle with the RF transmitter. The transmitter may have a launch button that is depressed by the user to launch the airplane. While in flight the user can control the airplane through the RF transmitter. The motor of the vehicle may turn off when the airplane is launched.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Inventors: George T. Foster, Joseph Cernansky, Ian B. Osborne, Steve Conrad
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Patent number: 7010628Abstract: A device for converting joystick controller generated analog and digital signals into Universal Serial Bus (USB) format, or for converting imported pulse position modulated (PPM) encoded signals from an external radio control (RC) transmitter into USB format data. The device is used, in an embodiment, for controlling simulated RC model aircraft as displayed, for example on a personal computer screen through the use of computer software. In an embodiment, the device includes a pair of two-axis gimbals, an auxiliary channel control potentiometer, and various control key switches to generate analog and digital joystick type signals as a result of direct manipulation by a user. The device also includes microcontroller circuitry for importing PPM signals, such as PPM signals generated by a commercially available model aircraft RC transmitter, to a USB port signal for interface with a computer.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2004Date of Patent: March 7, 2006Assignee: Hobbico, Inc.Inventors: Neal E. Cloud, Mark D. Williams, Scott Kemp
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Patent number: 6959231Abstract: A robot system includes a plurality of segments 3, joints 4 for linking the segments together, drive units 5 for actuating the joints, and a controller 8 for controlling the drive units. Further, the robot system has bladders 2 filled with a fluid being of lower specific gravity than the outside environment. A center of buoyancy differs from a center of gravity, and the robot system has a specific gravity of greater than 1 relative the outside environment.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2003Date of Patent: October 25, 2005Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Katsuhiro Maeda
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Patent number: 6951498Abstract: A wireless toy playset. The playset includes a small size vehicle that moves about a track. Movement of the vehicle is controlled by a wireless transmitter. At the discretion of a parent or end user the transmitter can either be structurally coupled to the track or physically separated from the track. By way of example, the transmitter may be docked into a docking station of the track. Structurally coupling the wireless transmitter to the track reduces the likelihood of separation, and possibly misplacement, of the transmitter from the playset. For example, when the playset is operated by a small child it may be desirable to structurally couple the wireless transmitter to the track to prevent the child from removing and losing the transmitter.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2003Date of Patent: October 4, 2005Inventor: Elliot Rudell
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Patent number: 6945843Abstract: A toy lowrider model vehicle which simulates the lifting and lowering movement of a full-size lowrider vehicle. The toy vehicle, preferably wireless or remote controlled having an onboard control signal receiver and battery power, has a chassis which supports spaced front and rear suspension assemblies each including a transverse axle supporting a wheel thereon for rotation and chassis support. Each suspension assembly is preferably independently movable, carrying an axle and wheel thereon for controlled up and down movement to selectively raise and lower each corner of the chassis separately or in any desired combination together. Lifting motors supported on the chassis each include an output shaft connected to one corresponding suspension assembly whereby the corresponding axle and wheel thereon are carried to move up or down to effect the corresponding corner of the chassis to raise or lower in lowrider fashion.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2004Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Inventor: Stephen J. Motosko
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Patent number: 6902464Abstract: A rolling toy includes a chassis, an electric power source attached to the chassis, a remote signal receiver, an electric motor attached to the chassis and receiving power from the power source in response to a signal received by the remote signal receiver, a pair of riding surface-engaging wheels mounted co-axially to the chassis and capable of rotating independently of one another, and wherein at least one of the wheels is driven to rotate by the electric motor, and a dome-shaped profile formed on each wheel and adapted to bear upon the riding surface to assist in righting the toy, should it topple in use.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2004Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Assignee: Silver Manufactory Holdings Company LimitedInventor: Michael Pui Kuen Lee
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Patent number: 6893320Abstract: An ergonomically comfortable remote control apparatus includes a transmission controller unit and a transmitter unit electrically connected together. The transmission controller unit includes a transmission-controller-unit handle. An accelerator control finger lever and a brake control finger lever project outward from a first side of the transmission-controller-unit handle. A clutch thumb lever projects outward from a second side of the transmission-controller-unit handle. A steering wheel is connected to a portion of the transmission-controller-unit handle at a location above the accelerator control finger lever, the brake control finger lever, and the clutch thumb lever. A finger-operated steering control handle is connected to the steering wheel. A hand operated gear shift slide actuator is supported on the steering wheel and operates an upshift actuator button and a downshift actuator button located on the steering wheel.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2002Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Inventor: Joseph C. Caiozza
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Patent number: 6884143Abstract: A wind propelled vehicle. The wind propelled vehicle has a frame. A plurality of wheels is connected to the frame. A mast is connected to the frame and a boom is connected to the mast. A sail is connected to the mast. A motor is operably connected to the boom via a string. The string has a boom end and a motor end. The string is connected to the boom at the boom end and the string is connected to the motor at the motor end. The motor is remotely controlled via a remote control unit. To propel the wind propelled vehicle the motor manipulates the boom in response to control signals generated by the remote control unit to adjust the sail relative to wind. In a preferred embodiment the sail is a rigid wing sail.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2003Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: RoboDesign International, Inc.Inventor: Brian L. Ganz
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Patent number: 6857930Abstract: A toy vehicle having a receiver, a drive motor, a steering motor, and a plurality of spring assemblies. The spring assemblies each have a spring, a solenoid, and a pin. The toy vehicle includes a rear cargo unit having a plurality of receptacles for housing the springs therein. A beverage can is stored on top of each spring, and when the solenoid is energized, the pin is released and the can is pushed upwardly into the air. The receiver is in communication with a remote transmitter, having directional controls for controlling the drive motor and the steering motor, and can release buttons. The remote transmitter signals the receiver for controlling the drive motor, the steering motor, and the spring assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2004Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Inventor: Neil Lawley, Jr.
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Patent number: 6854547Abstract: A toy vehicle comprising a frame, a first wheel, a second wheel, and a turning mechanism including a rotatable arm mounted to the frame and a rotatable third wheel mounted to the arm. The arm is rotatable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein, in the extended position, the third wheel contacts the surface and lifts one of the first and second wheels off of the surface. The third wheel then rotates to rotate the vehicle about a remaining one of the first and second wheels in contact with the surface. The vehicle further comprises a motor mounted on the frame. The motor is operatively associated with one of wheels to propel the vehicle and with the turning mechanism to lift and turn the vehicle. The toy vehicle is controlled with a remote control unit which is shaped like a remote-vehicle-entry key chain.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2002Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Joseph T. Moll, Aritty J. Newton, Michael B. DiBartolo
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Patent number: 6855028Abstract: An amusement device of a projectile nature that can be thrown or flung or propelled through the air by a launcher includes the characteristic that it can be induced through an electo-mechanical device that deploys articulatable aerodynamic members that cause it to spin in such a way as, to change it's trajectory in mid-flight in response to a signal generated from a remote control device.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2003Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Inventor: Robert Paul Siegel
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Patent number: 6842804Abstract: A device for converting joystick controller generated analog and digital signals into Universal Serial Bus (USB) format, or for converting imported pulse position modulated (PPM) encoded signals from an external radio control (RC) transmitter into USB format data. The device is used, in an embodiment, for controlling simulated RC model aircraft as displayed, for example on a personal computer screen through the use of computer software. In an embodiment, the device includes a pair of two-axis gimbals, an auxiliary channel control potentiometer, and various control key switches to generate analog and digital joystick type signals as a result of direct manipulation by a user. The device also includes microcontroller circuitry for importing PPM signals, such as PPM signals generated by a commercially available model aircraft RC transmitter, to a USB port signal for interface with a computer.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2003Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Assignee: Hobbico, Inc.Inventors: Neal E. Cloud, Mark D. Williams, Scott Kemp
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Patent number: 6821184Abstract: A steering alignment system for a toy car is disclosed. The system has a variable resistor for providing a resistance in response to a received signal, which variable resistor has a neutral position. There is a steering alignment element capable of changing the neutral position of the variable resistor. The steering alignment element may be a steering trimmer coupled to the variable resistor and/or a trim wheel in communication with the variable resistor. The system has a turning wheel and a steering motor for directing the turning wheel. The system also has a processor coupled to the variable resistor for controlling the steering motor according to the resistance provided by the variable resistor.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2003Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Inventor: Chan Yeung
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Publication number: 20040198170Abstract: A toy vehicle having dynamic transformation capability includes a transformation system connected to the front and rear wheels. The front and rear wheels are pivotally mounted on front and rear swing arms, and the swing arms are in communication with the transformation system. The transformation system is radio controlled and enables the selective control of the wheel positions during operation of the vehicle. The remotely controlled selective and infinite transformation capabilities allows for changing the vehicle's wheelbase, center of gravity (cog), front/rear weight distribution, ground clearance, attitude (i.e., angle to ground plane); and the suspension travel with respect to the chassis/body in response to the terrain and driving conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 17, 2003Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventors: Neil Tilbor, Michael G. Hetman, Masaki Suzuki
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Patent number: 6793555Abstract: A toy vehicle having dynamic transformation capability includes a transformation system connected to the front and rear wheels. The front and rear wheels are pivotally mounted on front and rear swing arms, and the swing arms are in communication with the transformation system. The transformation system is radio controlled and enables the selective control of the wheel positions during operation of the vehicle. The remotely controlled selective and infinite transformation capabilities allows for changing the vehicle's wheelbase, center of gravity (cog), front/rear weight distribution, ground clearance, attitude (i.e., angle to ground plane); and the suspension travel with respect to the chassis/body in response to the terrain and driving conditions.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2003Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Inventors: Neil Tilbor, Michael G. Hetman, Masaki Suzuki