Including Dispenser Patents (Class 446/475)
  • Patent number: 9375652
    Abstract: A confetti cannon includes a one-piece housing. The one-piece housing has a confetti hopper, a launch tube, and a valve housing. The valve housing has an inlet connected to an internal valve. Whereby, the confetti hopper, the launch tube, and the valve housing are integrally formed to create the one-piece housing. The internal valve can be an electric solenoid valve for controlling the confetti cannon remotely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Willett
  • Patent number: 9027269
    Abstract: An interactive electronic greeting card with pop up feature includes a three-sided pocket or cavity which houses various electronic and mechanical components and a pop up element. In a first position, the pop up element is substantially contained within the greeting card pocket or cavity. When the push button is depressed, the pop up element is ejected or “pops up” out of the greeting card pocket or cavity, revealing a greeting or other printed indicia. The push button also initiates playback of a pre-loaded digital audio file, which may be a spoken message, a sound, a song, music or other such audio recording.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: American Greetings Corporation
    Inventors: Lauren Budzar, John Talbot, Lynne Shlonsky, Melissa Flesher
  • Publication number: 20150111464
    Abstract: A confetti cannon includes a one-piece housing. The one-piece housing has a confetti hopper, a launch tube, and a valve housing. The valve housing has an inlet connected to an internal valve. Whereby, the confetti hopper, the launch tube, and the valve housing are integrally formed to create the one-piece housing. The internal valve can be an electric solenoid valve for controlling the confetti cannon remotely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Willett
  • Patent number: 8951094
    Abstract: In one arrangement, a confetti projector may be operated using SCUBA quality gas. In another arrangement, a confetti projector may include a support frame having a storage surface that is used to support, and thus transport, one or more gas canisters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Inventor: Joseph D. Ropelewski
  • Publication number: 20150017875
    Abstract: A popper for propelling powder. In one example embodiment, a powder popper includes a hollow housing that includes an internal powder chamber, a bottom plug positioned at the bottom of the powder chamber, powder positioned in the powder chamber above the bottom plug, a seal for preventing the powder from leaking out of the powder chamber past the bottom plug, and means for propelling the powder from the powder chamber upon activation of the powder popper, which causes the powder to expand in the air into a small cloud of the powder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventor: Christopher Dale McBride
  • Patent number: 8876574
    Abstract: A device for scattering confetti. The device may include a body, a container, coupled to the body, and having confetti disposed therein, and at least one retaining structure for maintaining the device in a hand of a person. A portion of the body may be disposed in the palm of the hand, while one or both of the body and the container may further include at least one component for releasing confetti from the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: FiestaFive, LLC
    Inventors: Chase Bourdelaise, Paul Wagner
  • Patent number: 8733334
    Abstract: A toy hand grenade has a plurality of bores which receive soft darts. A launcher is received in each bore and is spring loaded. An actuator retains the launchers in a spring-loaded, unactuated position. The actuator is displaceable relative to the body to release the launchers and substantially concurrently eject the darts from the hand grenade. A pin or a clip may be employed to lock the actuator in a locked position. A timer is employed to delay actuation of the actuator to release the launchers and eject the darts from the hand grenade. A sandbag ring is imposed to ensure proper orientation and stability of the hand grenade for the timer actuated feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventors: David E. Mroczka, Kevin Mroczka
  • Patent number: 8708766
    Abstract: A child's activity toy having a support board to which a variety of differently colored discs can be magnetically attached. The colored discs are dispensed with disc dispenser pens adapted to house and dispense the discs, and thus create a colored image. The image created can be viewed using 3D imaging technology, and an enhanced visual effect can be observed when the images are observed under Ultraviolet light. A disc collection and sorting system is also included in the activity toy of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Tech 4 Kids, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley D. Pedersen, Kyle Jeffs
  • Patent number: 8701935
    Abstract: A water gun discharges water continuously by pushing in and pulling out an operating portion and has a casing imitating a barrel, a rear grip portion and a front grip portion. The casing incorporates a pump mechanism and includes pumping tubing forming a pumping path through which water is pumped up from a water storage tank by the pumping mechanism and a muzzle portion disposed at a front end of the casing. The pump mechanism includes a first cylinder and a second cylinder which are oriented in opposite directions, a first piston slidable forwards and backwards within the first cylinder and a second piston slidable forwards and backwards within the second cylinder, an interlocking member coupled to the first piston and the second piston and brought into engagement with a rear half portion of the casing, pumping check valves, a jet water flowing chamber and a water supply path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: Agatsuma Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shinji Todokoro
  • Patent number: 8690630
    Abstract: A bubble generating toy includes a bubble forming assembly mounted inside a housing behind a front opening thereof. The bubble forming assembly includes a cylindrical body having diametric inlet and outlet, a cylindrical air gate having diametric inlet and outlet. The air gate is rotatable in the cylindrical body between a closed position and open position when the inlets and outlets are aligned. A sleeve extends perpendicularly from the outlet of the cylindrical body and has a bubble ring. Bubble forming liquid is pumped from a container, through a tube and into the sleeve by a pump to form a bubble film across the bubble ring. An air blower blows are through the sleeve and the bubble ring to generate bubbles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Chun Yuen Lau
  • Publication number: 20140051325
    Abstract: A toy system having two toy vehicles and a figurine for enhanced play value. One toy vehicle is large, has three actuators and front and rear ramps. The first actuator causes the large vehicle to open its sides to form a playset. The second actuator is located on a risible ladder with a platform having a trap door floor and enables the figurine to drop from the platform to the small toy vehicle. The third actuator launches the small toy vehicle down the front ramp from a storage compartment in the large toy vehicle after the small toy vehicle had been loaded into the storage compartment by opening the rear ramp. The small vehicle is transformable between a vehicle configuration and a robot configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Publication date: February 20, 2014
    Inventors: William M. Paukert, Dan Judkins, Eric Listenberger, Hiroyuki Nagasu
  • Patent number: 8562385
    Abstract: A figure includes a body with a first portion including an inlet and a second portion including an outlet. The first portion is submersible in a liquid. A conduit extends between the inlet and the outlet. A pump mechanism is coupled to the conduit. The pump mechanism is operable by a user to draw liquid into the inlet, move the liquid through the conduit, and discharge the liquid from the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Kelly Rae Matheny, Christopher Goff, Jeffrey A. Saunders
  • Patent number: 8550299
    Abstract: The present invention is methods and devices for encouraging, educating, entertaining, and or motivating children to brush their teeth. In preferred embodiments of the invention, one or more characters are used, each with its own look and personality. The characters are used in a variety of forms and media as the shape of functional devices, advertising, education and entertainment. The characters may also be animated. The characters and their images, associated slogans and brand name may be used on a line of merchandise. The invention in a preferred embodiment includes a toothpaste dispenser or a toy in the shape of one of the characters. The toothpaste dispenser or toy, in a preferred embodiment, is able to talk to, play a song or otherwise communicate with the child to give entertaining, educational or motivating messages to the child regarding brushing their teeth. The invention in another embodiment includes one or more of the characters in the form of finger and or hand puppets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Inventor: Alicia H. Lohmann
  • Patent number: 8540548
    Abstract: A child's activity toy comprises a plurality of dispensers which will dispense circular discs onto a flat magnetic surface. The circular discs are of different colors, each color having its own respective diameter, with the color being applied to each side of the discs. Each dispenser is specific to its own color, and is biased to its closed, non-dispensing condition. Pressing the dispensing end of a dispenser against the flat magnetic surface will dispense a circular disc; and moving the dispenser while it is pressed against the flat magnetic surface will dispense a series of circular discs. A frame is provided for the flat magnetic surface, and includes a graduated sorter so as to separate the discs of one color from the discs of any other color. The respective dispenser for each color can be filled with the discs from the respective sorter chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Tech 4 Kids, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley D. Pedersen, Kyle Jeffs
  • Patent number: 8474505
    Abstract: A tattoo applicator for applying temporary tattoos to a subject, the tattoo applicator including a handheld housing and a sponge moveably supported by the housing to moisten the temporary tattoo and to apply pressure to the temporary tattoo. In some examples, the housing defines a retaining slot for receiving a tattoo-forming sheet. In some examples, the tattoo applicator includes a timer. In some examples, the tattoo applicator includes a push rod and a tattoo mount supported by the housing, the tattoo mount defining a port through which the push rod extends. In some examples, the tattoo applicator includes a fluid reservoir mounted to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Melissa Ozuna, Erika Kane, Craig Stock
  • Patent number: 8469011
    Abstract: A toy hand grenade has a plurality of bores which receive soft darts. A launcher is received in each bore and is spring loaded. An actuator retains the launchers in a spring-loaded, unactuated position. The actuator is displaceable relative to the body to release the launchers and substantially concurrently eject the darts from the hand grenade. A pin or a clip may be employed to lock the actuator in a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventors: Jack Mroczka, David E. Mroczka
  • Patent number: 8469768
    Abstract: A horn having a substantially hollow body with a first end, a medial portion, and a second end. The medial portion has an exhaust assembly having an opening. The body first end is structured to be engaged by the mouth of a user and defines an initial flowpath with a direction extending into the body. A confetti chamber is disposed in the hollow body. The confetti chamber is in fluid communication with the body first end and the exhaust opening. There is confetti disposed in the confetti chamber. An exhaust flowpath extends from the confetti chamber through said exhaust opening. The exhaust flowpath is not substantially aligned with said initial flowpath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: The Beistle Company
    Inventor: Scott Smith
  • Publication number: 20130109274
    Abstract: In one arrangement, a confetti projector may be operated using SCUBA quality gas. In another arrangement, a confetti projector may include a support frame having a storage surface that is used to support, and thus transport, one or more gas canisters.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph D. Ropelewski
  • Patent number: 8390850
    Abstract: A toy mailbox for children includes a storage unit and a media processing mechanism. The storage unit includes a door member for closeably opening the storage unit and an ejection slot configured on a portion of the storage unit. The media processing mechanism is coupled to the storage unit, such that the media processing mechanism is capable of dispensing a media sheet having data content printed thereon, into the storage unit through the ejection slot. Opening the storage unit enables children to access the media sheet from within the storage unit. The media processing mechanism is also capable of printing the data content on the media sheet prior to dispensing the media sheet into the storage unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Lexmark International, Inc.
    Inventor: John Thomas Writt
  • Publication number: 20120264352
    Abstract: This disclosure describes systems and methods for purposefully introducing error into a measurement of distance. In some embodiments, a system and method for purposefully introducing error into a measurement of distance may include a novelty measuring device. A novelty measuring device may include an elongated member. The elongated member may include a first set of indicia. The first set of indicia may be positioned on at least a portion of a first side of the elongated member. The first set of indicia may accurately measure a distance. The elongated member may include a second set of indicia positioned on at least a portion of a second side of the elongated member. The second set of indicia may inaccurately measure a distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventors: Nathan D. Docter, David A. Docter
  • Patent number: 8225747
    Abstract: A dispenser device is provided for use by an animal to selectively dispense treats from the device. The device includes a body having an interior opening to receive treats, and an opening is formed in the body to allow dispensing of the treats. A base of the device includes a weighted material therein causing the device to reside in a normally upright position. Contact by the animal causes the device to tip, thereby allowing treats to fall through the opening in the body. Changing the amount and type of material used for the weighted material changes the characteristics of how the device moves when contacted by the animal that in turn, changes the rate and amount of treats that are dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: The KONG Company, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph P. Markham, Chuck Costello, Laura Bender
  • Publication number: 20120144556
    Abstract: A face mask assembly includes a face mask having inner and outer surfaces, with a first receiving portion defined between the inner and outer surfaces and a scent carrier removably installed in the first receiving portion. The scent carrier has a housing that defines a chamber to hold a scent or vapor releasing material. Scent releasing apertures are defined in the housing in fluidic communications with the chamber. The effective size of the apertures is adjustable by a selective closing mechanism. The face mask can also have a second receiving portion, and a thermal ballast can be removably inserted into the second receiving portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Inventors: William Fiebel, Lara C. K. Peterson
  • Patent number: 8182308
    Abstract: A toy vehicle playset is disclosed herein the playset having: a vessel configured to define a receiving area; an object being located proximate to the vessel, the object having a pair of body portions configured for movement between a first position wherein the pair of body portions are next to each other and a second position wherein the pair of body portions are moved away from each other; first and second track segments disposed proximate to the vessel such that a gap is formed between the first and second track segments and across the vessel; a trigger disposed on the second track segment; a toy vehicle having a thermochromic paint thereon that is configured to travel along the first and second track segments, wherein the thermochromic paint on the toy vehicle changes from a first color to a second color in response to a temperature change of the thermochromic paint; wherein the pair of body portions are moved from the first position to the second position when the toy vehicle travels along the second tra
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Julian R. Payne
  • Publication number: 20120080847
    Abstract: A game figure is provided having a liquid projectile launching device. The liquid projectile launching device includes a body, a fluid reservoir supported by the body, and a liquid projectile launching mechanism supported by the body and in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Applicant: HOME FOCUS DEVELOPMENT LTD.
    Inventor: Jacob Ranis Stokholm ANDERSEN
  • Publication number: 20110306271
    Abstract: A toy for receiving and shooting a constant stream of water is comprised of a tubular connection port or mounting means, and a hollow foam tube. The hollow foam tube is connected to a return line of a swimming pool circulation system via the tubular connection port, wherein a first end of the connection port is sized to connect to the return line and a second end of the connection port is sized to connect to the proximal end of the hollow foam tube, and wherein water flows from the return line, through the connection port and the channel of the hollow foam tube, and then out of the distal end of the tube when connected, to provide a constant flow of water shooting out of the toy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventor: Andrew John McKenna
  • Patent number: 7922039
    Abstract: A toy gun is disclosed that may have a pressurized elastomeric supply bladder in fluid communication with an elastomeric pulse bladder via a trigger valve. The pulse bladder may also be in fluid communication with a pulse nozzle via a pulse valve that is operatively connected to the pulse bladder so that the pulse valve moves from a closed position to an open position when the pulse bladder expands. When the supply bladder is filled with pressurized liquid and the trigger valve is opened, pressurized liquid from the supply bladder is forced into the pulse bladder. As the pulse bladder expands, the expansion eventually causes the pulse valve to open and cause a burst of liquid to be discharged from the pulse bladder through the pulse nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Hasbro, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Jablonski, Joseph Dobkin, Raymond A. Mead
  • Patent number: 7885724
    Abstract: An automatic vending machine (1) is provided with a vending machine main unit (10), with a play device (20) including a stuffed toy (21) on which a user can ride and a drive mechanism (24) for driving the stuffed toy (21), and with a control device that controls the vending machine main unit (10) and the drive mechanism (24) in the play device (20). The vending machine main unit (10) and the play device (20) are interconnected via the control device. The vending machine main unit (10) includes a product dispensing mechanism ((14a (14)), and payment accepting mechanisms ((13a), (13b) (13)) for accepting payment for the item, wherein the control device activates the product dispensing mechanism ((14a (14)) so as to deliver the item to the outside, as well as activates the drive mechanism (24) in the play device (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: BLD Oriental, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasushi Ochi
  • Patent number: 7878878
    Abstract: A Halloween novelty item used for entertainment consisting of a removable reservoir of fluid and a timed electromagnetic valve inside a head that is activated by a motion sensor whereby allowing fluid to expel intermittently out of orifices attached to a tongue when the Halloween novelty item is approached. The expelled fluid is caught by a bucket attached to a slide bracket which is attached to a body panel whereby allowing the bucket to be removable. An assembly attached to a bucket handle consisting of a pair of hooks attached to a pair of hands connected to a pair of flexible arms allows the assembly to detach from the bucket's handle. A stabilization board keeps the novelty item stable. Motion sensors facing different directions are attached to a voice recorder and a speaker allowing messages to play. A hinge and latches attached to the body allows the invention to condense.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Inventor: Darren S. Massaro
  • Publication number: 20100330868
    Abstract: A toy vehicle playset is disclosed herein the playset having: a vessel configured to define a receiving area; an object being located proximate to the vessel, the object having a pair of body portions configured for movement between a first position wherein the pair of body portions are next to each other and a second position wherein the pair of body portions are moved away from each other; first and second track segments disposed proximate to the vessel such that a gap is formed between the first and second track segments and across the vessel; a trigger disposed on the second track segment; a toy vehicle having a thermochromic paint thereon that is configured to travel along the first and second track segments, wherein the thermochromic paint on the toy vehicle changes from a first color to a second color in response to a temperature change of the thermochromic paint; wherein the pair of body portions are moved from the first position to the second position when the toy vehicle travels along the second tra
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: Julian R. Payne
  • Patent number: 7798364
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a toy water gun and, more particularly, to a pressurized toy water gun having a mixing nozzle or nozzles for simultaneously discharging and mixing two or more liquids after they pass through the mixing nozzle. In one embodiment, the toy gun may include separate tanks or reservoirs for storing the liquids, and separate nozzles for receiving and discharging the liquids in discharged streams of liquid. The toy gun may further include a pressurization mechanism in fluid communication with the tanks and the nozzles to provide pressure to cause the liquids to be discharged from the nozzles in the discharged streams of liquid. The nozzles may be oriented relative to each other such that the discharged streams engage each other after being discharged from the outlets of the nozzles to mix the liquids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Hasbro, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred D. Eddins, Linwood E. Doane, Jr., Amanda M. Bligh
  • Patent number: 7690532
    Abstract: An accessory is provided for a product dispenser having a container for holding a product. The container defines a center axis and has a normal dispensing position, and a dispensing mechanism is coupled to the container and has a discharge opening adapted to direct product toward a desired target area when the container is in the normal dispensing position. The accessory is a first stabilizing element coupled to at least one of the container and dispensing mechanism and adapted to maintain the container in the normal dispensing position, thereby to more reliably direct product toward the target area during use. The first stabilizing element incorporates at least one physical feature attractive to a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Assignee: The Procter and Gamble Company
    Inventors: John Dwayne Walther, Jeffrey James Stechschulte
  • Patent number: 7666056
    Abstract: An apparatus for launching streamers is disclosed in which the streamers remain connected to the user's hand during and after launch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Parti-Line International, Inc.
    Inventors: Raul Vicente Munoz, James O. Watkins, Shirley Watkins, legal representative
  • Publication number: 20100003888
    Abstract: A life-size Halloween novelty item used for entertainment standing at 5?5?, designed to contain a reservoir of fluid inside the head, so it can be expelled through the mouth into a metal bucket via gravity when someone comes close to trigger the front sensor. Hands connect to the metel bucket's handle using hooks, further the arms connect to the hooks using chain link surrounded by pipe insulation, this combination coupled with the detachable metal bucket that slides on and off allows for the easiest disconnection of the arms from the metal bucket and the bucket from the body. There are four sensors, the sensor located in the right front of the invention controls the valve, the other three sensors facing forward, left, and right control messages. A switch on the invention controls what three messages will play. The invention contains three latches and one-hinge for folding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Darren Scott Massaro
  • Patent number: 7606637
    Abstract: A sprinkler play system has a central distribution station and a plurality of sprinkler stations. The sprinkler stations may be spaced apart on a lawn. The sprinkler stations are connected to the distribution station with flexible water conduits. Each of the sprinkler stations includes a low voltage solenoid valve. Electrical conductors may be included with the flexible water conduits in order to operate the solenoid valves. A control unit permits selective activation of the individual sprinkler stations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Dream Visions, LLC
    Inventor: Theodore G. Habing
  • Publication number: 20090184083
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a bottle cap. The bottle cap includes an inner lower cap which is coupled to a bottle and has on a lower end thereof a protruding breaking part, an inner upper cap which is coupled to an upper portion of the inner lower cap and moves a push cap downwards through a screw-type fastening method when the inner upper cap is rotated, and the push cap which serves as an additive holding member and has on a bottom thereof a thin-plate-type stopper. The bottle cap includes an outer protective cap which has a support tube therein so that the inner upper cap is fitted into the support tube in such a way as to rotate along with the outer protective cap, and covers an upper end of the inner upper cap and a surface of the bottle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventor: Young Kook Cho
  • Publication number: 20090045217
    Abstract: An apparatus for dispensing soap and encouraging washing hands long enough to kill germs and bacteria. The apparatus comprises a container having a predetermined size and a predetermined shape for holding a predetermined volume of a liquid soap mixture. A dispensing means is engageable with the container for delivering a predetermined quantity of the liquid soap mixture, the dispensing means includes a pump member. There is a chip member disposed in such dispensing means and connected for activation by the pump member for providing a musical reminder on the importance of cleanliness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Nancy L. Bobrowski
  • Patent number: 7475794
    Abstract: An accessory is provided for a product dispenser having a container for holding a product. The container defines a center axis and has a normal dispensing position, and a dispensing mechanism is coupled to the container and has a discharge opening adapted to direct product toward a desired target area when the container is in the normal dispensing position. The accessory is a first stabilizing element coupled to at least one of the container and dispensing mechanism and adapted to maintain the container in the normal dispensing position, thereby to more reliably direct product toward the target area during use. The first stabilizing element incorporates at least one physical feature attractive to a child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: John Dwayne Walther, Jeffrey James Stechschulte
  • Publication number: 20080311822
    Abstract: The party tape popper of the present invention, which is designed to discharge the multi-colored tapes and paper powders using the pressurized gas inside it, consists of a gas-generating part onto which a closing plug with a screw-type firing pin is attached, and inside of which a pressurized gas injection hole is installed, and into whose interior diameter a pressurized gas cartridge is inserted. The popper also includes a tape branch pipe closing part with an insertion groove at the end of a pressurized gas discharging hole and a hanging pin whose elasticity is controlled by a spring at the other end of the gas discharging hole. On the closing part of the said tape branch pipe is a small, paper-based cylinder whose both ends are closed by sponge or paper boards. Inside the cylinder is a tape roll containing a multiple number of multi-colored tapes and paper powder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventor: Hak Ryang Kim
  • Publication number: 20080277413
    Abstract: A toy gun is disclosed that may have a pressurized elastomeric supply bladder in fluid communication with an elastomeric pulse bladder via a trigger valve. The pulse bladder may also be in fluid communication with a pulse nozzle via a pulse valve that is operatively connected to the pulse bladder so that the pulse valve moves from a closed position to an open position when the pulse bladder expands. When the supply bladder is filled with pressurized liquid and the trigger valve is opened, pressurized liquid from the supply bladder is forced into the pulse bladder. As the pulse bladder expands, the expansion eventually causes the pulse valve to open and cause a burst of liquid to be discharged from the pulse bladder through the pulse nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Applicant: HASBRO, INC.
    Inventors: Brian Jablonski, Joseph Dobkin, Raymond A. Mead
  • Patent number: 7442106
    Abstract: A reusable piñata system having a hollow body with an open bottom end. Slots are disposed in the hollow body. An end cap is provided to obstruct the open bottom end of hollow body. A support element is coupled to the end cap. The support element extends into the hollow body through the open bottom end. The support element is selectively positionable between a closed position, where the support element holds the end cap element in obstruction of the open bottom end, and an open position where the support element holds the end cap element away from the open bottom end. Removable pull pins are inserted through the slots in the hollow body. The pull pins extend into the hollow body where some of the pull pins engage the support element. The pull pins that do engage the support element hold the support element in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventors: Patricia Menow, Steven Menow
  • Publication number: 20080185783
    Abstract: A feeding game apparatus includes a feeding toy including a handle portion and a movable portion pivotally connected to the handle portion. The movable portion includes a mouth moving between an open position and a closed position. One of the feeding balls received in the movable portion falls out the feeding toy when the mouth is in the open position. A receiver toy is movably received in a seat and includes a body having an opening and a cover pivotally connected to the body. The receiver toy is moving between a lower position in which the opening of the body is closed and an elevated position in which the opening is revealed for receiving the feeding ball from the feeding toy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Lincoln Chen
  • Publication number: 20080121190
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a portion controlling treat dispenser according to this invention comprises housing. At least one treat holding chamber is disposed within the housing. At least one dispensing opening is configured in the housing and in communication with the treat holding chamber. At least one adjustment device is coupled to the treat holding chamber, wherein the quantity of treat exposed through the dispensing opening is controlled by operating the adjustment device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Inventor: Reynolds Ellsworth Moulton
  • Publication number: 20080108278
    Abstract: Flower Flyer is a compact, handheld device for gently blowing flowers or confetti into the air. To use Flower Flyer, an individual loads confetti, flowers or another suitable material into the device and installs batteries into the device. He then pushes the trigger located on the housing to cause power from the batteries to operate the motor and spin the fan blades beneath a screen on the device. The screen allows air to pass through it to disperse the flowers, confetti or other material while preventing the materials from being drawn back into the fan.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventors: Barbara L. Carpenter, Jeremy Carpenter
  • Patent number: 7310841
    Abstract: A stationery assembly includes a body and a partition formed on a bottom of the body for closing the body. A sound device is received in the chamber. A stapler is upwardly secured on a bottom of the body. A lighting device is mounted in a front end of the body. A first trough is defined in a top of the body. A second trough and a third trough are respectively defined in two opposite sides of the body. A first insertion, a second insertion and a third insertion are respectively and partially inserted into the first trough, the second trough and the third trough. A fourth trough is defined in a rear end of the body and a fourth insertion is partially inserted into the fourth trough. The body, the first insertion, the second insertion, the third insertion and the fourth insertion are assembled to form a dolphin model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Big Elephant Mold, Industry Co, Ltd.
    Inventor: Elephant Chen
  • Patent number: 7219817
    Abstract: Apparatus for projecting a slug of liquid through the air. The invention provides means to accelerate liquid molecules to substantially equal velocity, and then to release them with minimal turbulence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: James Samuel Panzarella
  • Patent number: 7207860
    Abstract: The present invention provides an interactive robotic device having a body, a transport mechanism, a drive mechanism, a plurality of inputs and outputs for receiving, delivering and/or displaying information, including aural and/or visual information or signals, a container for carrying or holding items to be delivered or dispensed to a user, and a dispensing structure for dispensing items to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: JAKKS, Pacific, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Hornsby, Marcellus R. Benson, Joseph L. McGowan, Timothy S. Brakensiek, David Niehaus
  • Patent number: 7086612
    Abstract: The present invention provides an assembly, sock, and method for generating foam. The assembly includes a housing having a chamber, and a first and second orifice. A fan arranged within the housing draws a flow of air into the chamber through the first orifice and exhausts the flow of air through the second orifice to form an exhausted flow of air. A nozzle is arranged within the chamber and is situated in proximity to the second orifice to allow introduction of a fluid into the exhausted flow of air through the second orifice. A permeable sock includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The sock is arranged to occlude the second orifice in a manner to receive the exhausted flow of air with the fluid at the inner surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventor: Gary Crawford
  • Patent number: 7066820
    Abstract: An illusion toy has a housing in which a blade is rotated in one direction too rapidly to be seen through 270 degrees between rest positions on respective opposite sides of an article receiving through hole, providing the illusion that the blade has rotated in an opposite direction across the through hole, through the article. An actuating lever for a blade rotating overcenter mechanism has a loop aligned with the through hole so that a trigger end of the lever can be visibly moved between opposite sides of the through hole in the same direction as the apparent movement of the blade. A hollow housing handle forms a candy dispensing store and connects to a delivery chute extending across the housing obscuring a radially outer portion of the blade path providing an impression that rotation of the blade in the one direction is blocked by candy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventors: William L King, Mark Setteducati, Robert Carignan, Terry Chan
  • Patent number: 7033242
    Abstract: A toy sword having at least one visual or auditory indicator for signaling a user when the sword contacts a target is provided. In one preferred embodiment the visual indicator is a filament disposed within the body of the sword and positioned to extend outward through an opening in the body when the tip of the sword is depressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Inventor: Andre Arturo Gulmesoff
  • Patent number: 7004813
    Abstract: A toy gun that shoots glowing projectiles and the method of providing glowing projectiles to a toy gun. The toy gun having a body, at least one black light responsive projectile, a cartridge for supplying the projectiles to the body, at least one black light source within the body for exposing the projectile to black light, a triggering mechanism for engaging the exposed projectile and a launching mechanism for expelling the exposed projectile from the toy gun, such that the projectiles expelled from the toy gun has a glowing effect as if internally lit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: CYI, Inc.
    Inventor: Steve Zuloff