EP0716866A1

EP0716866A1 - Ornament with movable figure body and figure body

Info

Publication number: EP0716866A1
Application number: EP95907844A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Hiroaki Inoue
Original assignee: YAMASAN CO Ltd
Current assignee: YAMASAN CO Ltd
Priority date: 1994-02-16
Filing date: 1995-02-06
Publication date: 1996-06-19
Also published as: EP0716866A4; WO1995022386A1; JPH07222873A

Abstract

An ornament of the invention comprises a pedestal section (2) having a power unit (3), and a figure body (4) which is provided on the pedestal section (2) and is in the shape of a doll or the like. The figure body (4) comprises a stationary portion (98) detachably mounted on the pedestal section (2), and various movable portions (99) provided to enable various movements relative to the stationary portion (98). When the figure body (4) is mounted on the pedestal section (2), the power unit (3) can transmit power to the movable portions (99). Thus when the power unit (3) is actuated, the figure body (4) performs motions which are full of expression and will keep a viewer interested. Also, the figure body (4) is detachable relative to the pedestal section (2), so that the figure body (4) can be arbitrarily changed in combination. Accordingly, it is possible to accommodate diversification and attain cost reduction.

Description

Technical Field

This invention relates to an ornament with a movable figure so constituted that the figure in the shape of a human being or the like is operated above a pedestal generally in the form of a box and to the figure thereof.

Background Art

In recent years, there have been developed various ornaments in which a music box contained in a box-type casing is used as a power source to operate a doll or the like disposed on the box-type casing only during the interval during which the music box is playing a melody (see Japanese Unexamined Utility Model Publications SHO 59-100489 and SHO 59-183293).
In such a conventional ornament, a single or a plurality of dolls are designed to move primarily in two dimensions (e.g., to move along a horizontal circular track). Consequently, a viewer may be attracted by the movement of the dolls as a whole, but not by the individual movements of the dolls, which are, per se, formed integrally from immovable parts made of a plastic or like material.
As a result, the conventional ornament has always given the impression that the movement of its dolls is monotonous and its mechanism is crude, since the dolls are expressionless even though their movement as a whole is attractive. Briefly, the conventional ornament is suitable to be viewed from a distance in a haphazard fashion. However, if the viewer watches the dolls moving in a closer position, he will get tired of watching them in a comparatively short period of time.
Moreover, since the dolls have been formed in pairs with respective pedestals on which they are mounted, a larger number of different pairs become necessary if a variety of ornaments are to be manufactured, resulting in a costly manufacturing system for small amounts of various articles.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an ornament with a movable figure comprising such a figure as a doll, which performs movements with full of expressions constantly worth watching, and to provide the figure thereof.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an ornament with a figure which can be manufactured at lower cost and to provide the figure thereof.

Disclosure of Invention

An ornament with a movable figure according to the present invention comprises: a pedestal; a power unit provided in the pedestal; and a figure provided on the pedestal. The above figure comprises a stationary part which is removably attached to the pedestal and a movable part which is movable with respect to the stationary part. The above power unit is provided with an output end and the above stationary part is provided with an input end which is removably connected to the output end by engagement. The above movable part is adapted to be driven by power from the input end.
With the arrangement, since the figure is removably mounted on the pedestal, a user can replace the figure with another in accordance with his taste.
The above output end may be so constituted as to output rotary power. In this case, the input end provided in the above stationary part is rotatably supported by the stationary part; the input end is formed at an end of a driven shaft; and the above movable part is interlockingly connected with the driven shaft such that the above movable part cooperates with the rotation of the driven shaft.
With the arrangement, when the figure is mounted on the pedestal, the input end of the figure is connected to the output end of the power unit in the pedestal, so that power from the output end of the power unit is transmitted to the figure via the input end. Consequently, the movable part of the figure is driven by actuating the power unit and hence moves with respect to the stationary part.
The above pedestal may comprise a box-type casing and the above power unit may comprise a music box disposed in the above pedestal. Further, the above pedestal may be internally provided with a coin storage unit. In this case, an outer circumferential surface of the pedestal is formed with a slot communicating with the above coin storage unit; and an operating lever is also provided in the pedestal so as to be press-operated by a coin inserted from the slot, thereby driving the above power unit.
With the arrangement, when a coin is inserted from the slot, the inserted coin presses the operating lever so as to actuate the music box, and then the power of the music box causes the movable part of the figure to move.
It is also possible to constitute an arrangement such that the above pedestal comprises a box-type casing and the above power unit comprises an electric motor disposed in the above pedestal.
With the arrangement, the trouble of winding up the spiral spring after every unwinding becomes unnecessary, unlike the case where the music box is used as the power unit. Moreover, since the driving of the electric motor requires the use of an electric power source, there can be implemented a sound generating function using the power source, whereby various sounds can be generated.
The above power unit can be provided with a drive control element having a time broadcasting function. The drive control element may be so constituted as to automatically activate the above power unit, for example, at given time intervals.
The above pedestal may be provided with a clock.
With the arrangement, the ornament of the present invention can be used not only as a mere ornament, but also as a desk clock, which increases the practicality thereof.
The above drive control element may be connected to the clock by means of a circuit.
With the arrangement, since the power unit can be automatically activated at a given set time, the ornament can be imparted with an alarm clock function. Consequently, the practicality of the ornament of the present invention is further increased.
On the other hand, the figure according to the present invention comprises the stationary part which is removably attached to the above pedestal and the movable part which is movable with respect to the stationary part. The above stationary part is provided with the input end such that an input from the above input end causes the above movable part to move. The above movable part comprises a first movable part which is movable with respect to the above stationary part and a second movable part which is movable with respect to the first movable part.
With the arrangement, the stationary part is removably attached to the pedestal. When the stationary part is attached to the pedestal, the output end is necessarily connected to the input end. As a result, power is transmitted from the output end of the power unit to the movable part via the input end thereby driving the movable part. In this case, since the movable part has the first movable part which is movable with respect to the above stationary part and the second movable part which is movable with respect to the first movable part, the movement of the overall figure becomes complicated.
The above stationary part supports the driven shaft for rotation. An end of the driven shaft is provided with the input end which is removably connected to the above output end by engagement. The driven shaft may be provided with spiral wings and with eccentric rotors, while the above movable part may be provided with interlocking pins which are engaged with the corresponding spiral wings and may be provided with engagement members which are engaged with the corresponding eccentric rotors.
With the arrangement, the movable part is moved by means of the engagement of the spiral wings provided on the driven shaft with the interlocking pins provided in the movable part. The movable part is also moved by means of the engagement of the eccentric rotors provided on the driven shaft with the engagement members of the movable part.
It is also possible to constitute such an arrangement that the above driven shaft comprises a first driven shaft and a second driven shaft separately. In this case, the second driven shaft is connected to the first driven shaft in such a manner that the second driven shaft is movable with respect to the first driven shaft and is capable of transmitting power thereto. The second driven shaft is supported by the above movable part. The second driven shaft is also provided with a cam surface. The above stationary part is also formed with a cam surface which is engaged with the cam surface of the second driven shaft.
With the arrangement, the cam surface provided on the second driven shaft is engaged with the cam surface provided in the stationary part, thereby transmitting power to the second driven shaft. The second driven shaft is thus moved together with the movable part supported thereby.

Brief Description of the Drawings

FIG. 1 is a partially cutaway front view showing a first embodiment of an ornament according to the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along the line A-A of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a sectional view taken along the line B-B of FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is a partially cutaway rear view of the first embodiment from which a second casing of a pedestal has been removed;
FIG. 5 is a partially cutaway plan view of the pedestal of the first embodiment;
FIG. 6 is a front sectional view of a first figure;
FIG. 7 is a side sectional view of the first figure;
FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the first figure;
FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of a driven shaft;
FIG. 10 is a front sectional view of a second figure;
FIG. 11 is a side sectional view showing the connection between a middle element of the second figure and a lower element thereof;
FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken along the line C-C of FIG. 10;
FIG. 13 is a sectional view taken along the line D-D of FIG. 10;
FIG. 14 is a plan sectional view of an upper element corresponding to the line E-E of FIG. 10;
FIG. 15 is a side sectional view of the upper element of the second figure;
FIG. 16 is a side sectional view of an upper element of a third figure;
FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing an upper end portion of a driven shaft used in the third figure;
FIG. 18 is a front sectional view of a fourth figure;
FIG. 19 is a side sectional view of the fourth figure;
FIG. 20 is a side sectional view of the fourth figure under operation;
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a fifth figure that has been exploded and viewed from behind;
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a sixth figure that has been exploded and viewed from behind;
FIG. 23 is a front sectional view showing a second embodiment of the ornament according to the present invention;
FIG. 24 is a front sectional view showing a third embodiment of the ornament according to the present invention;
FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing a fourth embodiment of the ornament according to the present invention;
FIG. 26 is a front sectional view showing the principal portion of a pedestal of the fourth embodiment; and
FIG. 27 is a plan sectional view of the pedestal of the fourth embodiment.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

Below, the embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIGS. 1 to 9 show a first embodiment of an ornament 1 according to the present invention. A description will be given first to the principal portion of the ornament 1.
The ornament 1 comprises: a pedestal 2; a power unit 3 provided inside the pedestal 2; and a figure 4 removably provided in a position above the pedestal 2.
The figure 4 consists of a stationary part 98 detachably secured to the pedestal 2 and a movable part 99 which is provided movably with respect to the stationary part 98.
The power unit 3 is provided with an output end 18a projecting upward above the pedestal 2 so as to output rotary power. The stationary part 98 of the figure 4 is provided with an input end 20a which is interlocked with the movable part 99. The input end 20a is removably connected to the output end 18a of the above power unit 3 by engagement such that the movable part 99 is driven by the power from the input end 20a.
The pedestal 2, which is a combination of a first casing 81 and a second casing 82 each in the form of a halved box, is formed in a hollow box. The upper portion and front left portion of the internal space of the pedestal 2 serve as a container of the power unit 3, while the internal space of the pedestal 2, except for the portion used as the container of the power unit 3, is utilized as a coin storage unit 7.
The container of the power unit 3 and the coin storage unit 7 are positioned by the side of the power unit 3. The container of the power unit 3 and the coin storage unit 7 are separated from each other with a side partition 8a formed integrally with a front side wall 2a of the pedestal 2, with a bottom partition 8b, and with a back partition 8c attached removably to the side partition 8a and to the bottom partition 8b from behind. The above bottom partition 8b is positioned below the power unit 3.
The inner surface of a right side wall 83 and the inner surface of the side partition 8a, which are opposed to each other, are provided with guide grooves 84 which extend along substantially the entire length of the pedestal 2. The guide grooves 84 hold a power unit support 85 in the form of a plate that has been removably fitted therein. The first casing 81 and the second casing 82 have their top portions opened. The openings are closed by a top board 86 which is integrally connected to the support 85.
The front side wall 2a of the pedestal 2 (a front side wall of the first casing 81) is formed with a vertical slot 9 for insertion of a coin W, which communicates with the coin storage unit 7 through a coin passage 10. The coin passage 10 has its rear end slightly inclined downward so as to form a slope. Each of the slot 9 and coin passage 10 is designed to have dimensions which permit the passage of a currently circulated coin with a maximum diameter therethrough.
The rear bottom of the second casing 82 is formed with an opening 87 through which stored coins are discharged. The opening 87 is intended to fall within a range corresponding to the coin storage unit 7. The opening 87 for discharging coins is closed by a detachable lid 88, which is slidably attached from behind the pedestal 2 along the opening 87. One end of the lid 88 is provided with an engagement piece 89 and the inner bottom surface of the second casing 82 is formed with a concave portion 90 for engagement that can be engaged with the engagement piece 89. Accordingly, by engaging the engagement piece 89 of the lid 88 with the concave portion 90 of the second casing 82, the lid 88 can be reliably held by the second casing 82 without coming off. If the lid 88 in engagement is pushed backward, the engagement piece 89 is elastically deformed and disengaged from the concave portion 90. In this manner, the lid 88 can be disengaged from the second casing 82.
The present embodiment uses a music box of rotary driving type as the power unit 3 which is secured to the support 85. The power unit 3 comprises: a rotary drum 14 having a large number of keying projections at the outer circumferential surface thereof; a driving element 15 (driving box) containing therein a spiral spring (not shown) for rotating the rotary drum 14; a swing lever 91 for actuating the driving element 15; a winder 16 for winding up the spiral spring of the driving element 15; a diaphragm 92 (reed) held in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the rotary drum 14; and a sequence of gears 93 for transmitting the rotation of the rotary drum 14 to the output end 18a. The rotary drum 14, the driving element 15, and the diaphragm 92 are secured to the underside of the support 85. The sequence of gears 93 is disposed between the support 85 and the top board 86. In short, the power unit 3 is designed to have a unitary structure, so that the whole unit is removably attached to the pedestal 2.
The swing lever 91 has its base portion pivotally supported by the driving element 15 and has its tip portion laterally protruding from the container of the power unit 3 to the outside. In other words, the swing lever 91 is so constituted that its tip portion laterally protruding from the container of the power unit 3 to the outside can swing in the vertical direction. Onto the tip portion of the swing lever 91 is pressed an operating lever 17 from below.
The operating lever 17 is rotatably supported, at about the midpoint in the longitudinal direction thereof, by the side partition 8a with respect thereto. As described above, the tip portion of the operating lever 17 is pressed onto the underside of the swing lever 91. The rear end of the operating lever 17 is protruding toward the coin passage 10, so that, while the coin W is falling down through the coin passage 10 toward the coin storage unit 7, it presses down the rear end of the operating lever 17 and swings up the front end thereof. The center of gravity of the operating lever 17 is positioned anterior to the point pivotally supported by the side partition 8a. Accordingly, the operating lever 17 has its front end lowered if the coin W is not pressed thereon.
In the power unit 3, the driving element 15 is internally provided with a halt system for halting the rotation of the rotary drum 14, which is initiated by the spiral spring. The halt system is so constituted as to halt the rotary drum 14 constantly at a position at which a melody begins. The halt system is released if the swing lever 91 is swung upward and downward in one operation, thereby permitting the rotation of the rotary drum 14. Specifically, the rotary drum 14 is rotated 360° by the spiral spring of the driving element 15, each time the swing lever 91 is swung (i.e., each time the playing of the melody is completed), and is halted upon the activation of the halt system.
In short, the coin W inserted in the slot 9 falls down through the coin passage 10 toward the coin storage unit 7, while pressing down the rear end of the operating lever 17 on its way. As a result, the front end of the operating lever 17 swings up, which in turn swings up the tip portion of the swing lever 91, thereby driving the power unit 3. After the coin W passes through, the operating lever 17 and the swing lever 91 automatically return to their respective original positions. On the other hand, the power unit 3 is automatically halted upon the activation of the halt system, as described previously, when the playing of the melody is completed.
As shown in Fig. 5, the above sequence of gears are so constituted as to accelerate the rotary power of the rotary drum 14 and then transmit it to the output end 18a.
In the present embodiment, a drive shaft 18 is formed into an angular shaft having a square cross section at its output end 18a. On the other hand, the input end 20a of the figure 4 is formed into a boss having a concave portion in angular shape corresponding to the configuration of the above output end 18a. Therefore, the connection and disconnection of the output end 18a and input end 20a can be performed easily and reliably. Moreover, the output end 18a and input end 20a can be integrally rotated while they are connected. It will be appreciated that the input end 20a can alternatively be formed into an angular shaft, while forming the output end 18a into a boss.
The top surface 2c of the pedestal 2 described above is provided with a plurality of alignment holes 95 around a portion through which the output end 18a protrudes. By fitting the corresponding parts of the figure 4 into the alignment holes 95, the figure 4 can be secured to the pedestal 2 in a specified position (with the input end 20a coaxial with the output end 18a).
The present embodiment is also provided with a continuous playing system 55 for inhibiting the halt system in the driving element 15 from halting the rotation of the rotary drum 14 (i.e., inactivating the halt system). The continuous playing system 55 comprises an operating shaft 56 rotatably supported by the front side wall 2a of the pedestal 2. The front end of the operating shaft 56 protrudes forward from the pedestal 2 to the outside. The protruding portion is fitted into a knob 57 and secured thereto. The rear end of the operating shaft 56 is provided with a substantially oval cam 58, which is pressed onto the underside of the tip portion of the swing lever 91. Consequently, as shown in FIG. 4, the swing lever 91 can be raised by the cam 58 by rotating the knob 57 about 90° . With the swing lever 91 thus raised, the halt system in the driving element 15 is not activated, so that the rotary drum 14 continues to rotate until the spiral spring is completely unwound, thereby enabling continuous playing.
As shown in Figs. 6 and 7, the figure 4 is incorporated with a driven shaft 20 which extends along substantially the entire height of the figure 4. The driven shaft 20 is rotatably held and the upper end thereof is formed with the input end 20a described above.
Below, a detailed description will be given to the driven shaft in relation to the structure of the figure 4.
In the present embodiment, the figure 4 is in the form of a male doll in a sitting position. As shown in the exploded view of FIG. 8, the figure 4 has an upper element 22 representing the head of the doll, a middle element 23 representing the torso of the doll, and a lower element 24 representing the hip and legs of the doll. To the middle element 23 are attached a pair of swinging elements 25 and 26 representing left and right arms. To the lower element 24 are attached a pair of vertically moving elements 27 and 28 representing left and right legs.
Each of the upper element 22, middle element 23, and lower element 24 is composed of front and rear parts, which are joined by tightening a small screw 29 from the rear part into the front part, as shown in FIG. 7.
The lower part of the lower element 24 is provided with a plurality of hooks 96 protruding downward. Each of the hooks 96 corresponds to one of the alignment holes 95 provided in the top surface of the pedestal 2 previously described such that it is fitted into and engaged with the corresponding alignment hole 95. Hence, the lower element 24 of the figure 4 can be secured to the pedestal 2 by engaging the hooks 96 with the alignment holes 95. As is apparent from the description, in the figure 4 of the present embodiment, the lower element 24 constitutes the stationary part 98 removably attached to the pedestal 2.
In the figure 4, the driven shaft 20 consists of a second driven shaft 31 and a first driven shaft 33 which are separately provided, as shown in Fig. 9. The second driven shaft 31 is provided with a spiral wing 30 contained in the upper portion of the middle element 23 (see FIG. 6). The first driven shaft 33 is provided with a spiral wing 32 contained in the lower portion of the lower element 24.
The lower end of the second driven shaft 31 is provided with a boss 34 into which the first driven shaft 33 is to be fitted coaxially. The boss 34 is formed with long vertical slits 35 which extend opposite to each other with respect to the axis of the boss 34 in the outer circumferential surface thereof. The upper end of the first driven shaft 33 is provided with overhanging pieces 36 jutting radially and outwardly from two points at its outer circumferential surface, which are opposite to each other with respect to the axis of the first driven shaft 33. As a result, the second and first driven shafts 31 and 33 can be connected to each other by fitting the overhanging pieces 36 into the slits 35. In this state, although the first and second driven shafts 31 and 33 restrain each other's rotation, they are held in such positions as to allow their respective relative movements in the vertical direction.
That portion of the above second driven shaft 31 slightly upper than the boss 34 is formed with a circumferential rib 37 which is larger in diameter than the second driven shaft 31, while that portion of the first driven shaft 33 slightly upper than the input end 20a is formed with a circumferential rib 38 which is larger in diameter than the first driven shaft 33. Correspondingly, horizontal partitions 39 and 40 are disposed inside the middle element 23 and inside the lower element 24, respectively, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7. These partitions 39 and 40 also function to reinforce the middle element 23 and the lower element 24. Into the space between the boss 34 and the circumferential rib 37 of the second driven shaft 31 is fitted the partition 39 of the middle element 23. Into the space between the input end 20a and the circumferential rib 38 of the first driven shaft 33 is fitted the partition 40 of the lower element 24. Consequently, the pair of the second driven shaft 31 and the middle element 23 and that of the first driven shaft 33 and the lower element 24 are free from relative displacements in the vertical direction. Specifically, when the second driven shaft 31 moves vertically with respect to the first driven shaft 33, the middle element 23 also moves vertically with respect to the lower element 24 in an interlocking manner.
The top surface of the lower element 24 is provided with an engagement base 42 having an overhanging piece 41 jutting in the longitudinal direction, as shown in FIG. 7. The lower inner surface of the middle element 23 is provided with upper and lower holders 43 and 44 to be engaged with the overhanging piece 41 of the above engagement base 42. Consequently, the spacing between the holders 43 and 44 limits the range within which the middle element 23 move vertically.
The engagement base 42 of the lower element 24 is combined with the boss 34 of the second driven shaft 31 in such a manner that the boss 34 has its underside pressed onto the engagement base 42. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, the underside of the boss 34 is formed into a cam surface 34A inclined with respect to a horizontal surface. The top surface of the engagement base 42 is formed with a cam 45 having a cam surface 45A corresponding to the cam surface 34A of the boss 34. Accordingly, when the second driven shaft 31 rotates, it moves vertically along the inclination of the top face of the cam 45. As a result, there can be performed a humorous as well as rhythmical movement such that the doll (figure 4) repeatedly sways a body part from its shoulders to abdomen, i.e., its torso (middle element 23) upward and downward above its hip (lower element 24).
The middle element 23 is provided with a neck 23a protruding upward. The head 23a is provided with pivotal pins 46 which are coaxial with each other and protrude toward the front and toward the back in the horizontal direction. On the other hand, a boss 47 into which the pivotal pins 46 are fitted is formed inside the upper element 22, as shown in FIG. 7. Consequently, the upper element 22 is held above the middle element 23 so that it can rock transversely on the pivotal pins. In the upper element 22 is disposed a horizontal partition 48 in a position upper than the boss 47. The horizontal partition 48 is formed with an engagement member 49 in the form of a longitudinally elongated hole.
With respect to the upper element 22, the upper end of the second driven shaft 31 is formed with an eccentric rotor 50 in the form of a protruding pin to be fitted in the engagement member 49.
As a result, when the second driven shaft 31 rotates, the eccentric rotor 50 performs a circular movement, which presses the engagement member 49 only in the transverse direction. Consequently, there can be performed a humorous as well as rhythmical movement such that the doll (figure 4) repeatedly tilts its head (upper element 22) from side to side.
The swinging elements 25 and 26 attached to the middle element 23 are formed with rod- like constrictions 25a and 26a (see FIGS. 6 and 8) situated closer to their joints. The constrictions 25a and 26a are held between a pair of front and back holders 51 provided inside the middle element 23. Accordingly, the swinging elements 25 and 26 are rotatably held on right and left sides of the middle element 23 around the constrictions 25a and 26a. The joints of the swinging elements 25 and 26 are provided with respective interlocking pins 52 which protrude in the space between the swinging elements 25 and 26 toward their respective counterparts. The interlocking pins 52 are provided eccentrically with the rotation axes of the constrictions 25a and 26a of the swinging elements 25 and 26.
Between the swinging elements 25 and 26, the spiral wing 30 of the second driven shaft 31 is positioned so as to be pressed onto each of the interlocking pins 52 from below. In the spiral wing 30, inclined planes each having a lead (spiral) corresponding to only half the circumference are combined to present stairs in the circumferential direction (see FIG. 9).
Consequently, when the second driven shaft 31 rotates, each of the interlocking pin 52 is moved vertically along the inclined top surface thereof. As a result, there can be performed a humorous as well as rhythmical movement such that the doll (figure 4) alternately and repeatedly swings both arms (swinging elements 25 and 26), which have been thrust forward, upward and downward.
As shown in FIG. 7, the vertically moving elements 27 and 28 to be attached to the lower element 24 are provided with respective supporting points 27a and 28a. The supporting points 27a and 28a are held rotatably by the pivotal pins 53 disposed with their axes extending horizontally in the lower front portion of the lower element 24. The vertically moving elements 27 and 28 are provided with interlocking pins 54 jutting obliquely upward from the supporting points 27a and 28a toward the back.
The spiral wing 32 of the first driven shaft 33 is so positioned as to be pressed onto the interlocking pins 54 of the vertically moving elements 27 and 28 from above. The spiral wing 32 is substantially similar in shape to the spiral wing 30 of the second driven shaft 31 (see FIG. 9). However, the direction in which the spiral wing 32 is inclined is opposite to the direction in which the spiral wing 30 of the second driven shaft 31 is inclined.
Consequently, if the first driven shaft 33 rotates, the interlocking pins 54 are moved vertically along the inclined underside thereof. As a result, there can be performed a humorous as well as rhythmic movement such that the doll (figure 4) alternately and repeatedly stamp their toes (vertically moving elements 27 and 28) on the pedestal 2.
As is apparent from the above description, the figure 4 of the first embodiment is so constituted as to repeatedly and simultaneously perform a total of four actions of: vertically moving the middle element 23 (swaying its torso upward and downward); transversely rocking the upper element 22 (tilting its head from side to side); vertically swinging the swinging element 25 and 26 (swinging its arms upward and downward); and vertically moving the moving elements 27 and 28 (tramping its toes), each of which is humorous as well as rhythmical.
In the present embodiment, the middle element 23, upper element 22, swinging elements 25 and 26, and vertically moving elements 27 and 28 constitute the individual movable parts 99 to be driven by the power unit 3. On the other hand, the lower element 24 constitutes the stationary part 98. Of these components, the middle element 23 and the vertically moving element 27 and 28 constitute a first movable part 99a which is movable with respect to the stationary part 98 (lower element 24), while the upper element 22 and the swinging elements 25 and 26 constitute a second movable part 99b which is movable with respect to the first movable part 99a (middle element 23).
The sequence of actions is initiated when the coin W is inserted in the slot 9 of the pedestal 2, i.e., when the coin is saved, and is continuously performed until the playing of a melody is completed. During the performance of the actions, the user can enjoy not only the performance but also the melody played by the power unit 3 (music box), so that the performance is far from boring.
Stated otherwise, since the user can enjoy the performance of the sequence of actions and the playing of the melody only after he has inserted a coin for saving, such a device eventually encourages user's savings advantageously.
FIGS. 10 to 15 illustrate another embodiment of the figure 4. In contrast to the male figure 4 in the sitting position shown in FIGS. 1 to 9 (hereinafter referred to as a "first figure 4"), the figure 4 shown in FIGS. 10 to 15 (hereinafter referred to as a "second figure 4") is a female doll in a standing position.
The components of the second figure 4 which perform the same functions as those of the first figure 4 are designated by the same reference numerals.
A description will be given first to the movements of the second figure 4. The second figure 4 is so constituted as to repeatedly and simultaneously perform a total of four actions of: transversely rocking the upper element 22 (representing the head); transversely swinging the swinging elements 25 and 26 (representing arms); transversely rocking the lower element 24 (representing a skirt); and vertically moving a vertically moving element 60 (representing a lower lip as shown in FIG. 15) in the upper element 22.
The second figure 4 is different from the above first figure 4 in that the middle element 23 thereof does not perform a vertical movement. Consequently, the second figure 4 uses a one-piece driven shaft 20 which extends from the eccentric rotor 50 at the upper end thereof to the input end 20a at the lower end thereof.
The driven shaft 20 is provided with a circumferential rib 37 at a given height. The circumferential rib 37 is designed to support a partition 39 horizontally disposed in the middle element 23, thereby holding the whole figure 4 in the standing position.
The second figure 4 does not have the vertically moving elements 27 and 28 representing the legs in the first figure 4 (see FIG. 4), either. Accordingly, the driven shaft 20 is provided only with the upper spiral wing (designated by the reference number 30) for operating the swinging elements 25 and 26.
As for the transverse rocking movement of the upper element 22 of the second figure 4, it is performed by using the same principle and structure as used in the first figure 4, so that the detailed description thereof is omitted here.
The swinging movement of the swinging elements 25 and 26 of the second figure 4 is also performed by using substantially the same principle as used in the first figure 4 (by pressing the interlocking pins 52 onto the spiral wing 30), except that the swinging elements 25 and 26 of the second figure 4 are rotatably held by pivotal pins 61, which are provided in the middle element 23 and protruding coaxially in the forward and rearward direction. Accordingly, the swinging elements 25 and 26 perform a transverse swinging movement around the pivotal pins 61, which is different from the vertical swinging movement performed by the swinging elements 25 and 26 of the first figure 4.
The principle and structure used to rock the above lower element 24 of the second figure 4 in the transverse direction is as follows.
As shown in FIG. 11, the upper end of the lower element 24 is formed to have sufficiently small dimensions in both transverse and longitudinal directions to be fitted into the middle element 23. The upper end of the lower element 24 is provided with pivotal pins 62 which horizontally and coaxially protrude toward the front as well as the back. A boss 63 into which the pivotal pin 62 is to be fitted is provided in the middle element 23. As a result, the lower element 24 is suspended from the middle element 23 by means of the pivotal pin 62. Moreover, the lower element 24 is held by the middle element 23 in such a manner that it can swing in the transverse direction around the pivotal pin 62.
As shown in FIG. 10, in the lower element 24 of the second figure 4 is contained an upright stump 64 in the form of a hollow rectangular prism, whereby the second figure 4 can be mounted on the pedestal 2 (see FIG. 1). Hence, the upright stump 64 functions as the stationary part 98 which is removably attached to the pedestal 2.
As shown in FIG. 12, the upright stump 64 has its front side and back side abutting the front and back inner surfaces, respectively, of the lower element 24. Consequently, even when the driven shaft 20 rotates, the lower element 24 (the whole second figure 4) is prevented from rotating together with the driven shaft 20. With the front side and back side of the upright stump 64, moreover, the lower element 24 is guided for more smooth transverse swinging movements.
A partition 40 horizontally disposed inside the lower element 24 is formed with an oval engagement member 65 elongated in the longitudinal direction, as shown in FIG. 13. On the other hand, the driven shaft 20 is provided with an eccentric rotor 66 in the form of a plate which protrudes radially from a position corresponding to the engagement member 65.
Consequently, when the driven shaft 20 rotates, the protrusion of the eccentric rotor 66 performs a circular movement, so that the protrusion of the eccentric rotor 66 presses the engagement member 65 only in the transverse direction. As a result, there can be performed a humorous as well as rhythmical movement such that the doll (second figure 4) repeatedly sways its hip (lower element 24) from side to side.
Next, a description will be given to the principle and structure whereby the vertically moving element 60 provided in the upper element 22 of the second figure 4 moves vertically with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15.
The vertically moving element 60 consists of pivotal pins 67 laterally protruding toward the left and right and a tongue 68 protruding toward the front, so as to present a Y-shaped cross section. The front end of the tongue 68 is provided with an exposure piece 69 representing a lower lip. A boss 70 into which the pivotal pin 67 of the vertically moving element 60 is to be fitted is formed inside the upper element 22. The front side of the upper element 22 is formed with an opening 71 through which the exposure piece 69 of the vertically moving element 60 can be thrust forward. On the upper edge of the opening 71 is formed a swelled portion 72 representing an upper lip.
Consequently, the vertically moving element 60 is held around the pivotal pin 67 such that it swings vertically. The vertical movement allows the exposure piece 69 to come closer to and go further away from the swelled portion 72.
The eccentric rotor 50 provided on the upper end of the driven shaft 20 is positioned such that a part of its circular track is in contact and interference with the engagement member 60a (corresponding to the edge forming the warped groin of the Y shape) connecting the two pivotal pins 67 of the vertically moving element 60.
Consequently, when the rotation of the driven shaft 20 causes the eccentric rotor 50 to interfere with (or press pressed against) the engagement member 60a of the vertically moving element 60, the eccentric rotor 50 tends to press the vertically moving element 60 forward, thereby causing the vertically moving element 60 to swing upward. On the other hand, when the eccentric rotor 50 does not interfere with the engagement member 60a any more, the vertically moving element 60 swings downward by its own weight. As a result, there can be performed a humorous as well as rhythmical movement such that the doll (second figure 4) periodically opens and closes its mouth (swelled portion 72 representing the upper lip and exposure piece 69 representing the lower lip) as if it were singing or speaking.
In brief, in the second figure 4, the upper element 22, swinging elements 25 and 26, lower element 24 and vertically moving element 60 constitute the individual movable parts 99 to be driven by the driving unit 3. Moreover, the upright stump 64 constitutes the stationary part 98 which is removably attached to the pedestal 2. Furthermore, since the middle portion 23 does not perform any relative movement with respect to the upright stump 64, it is included in the stationary part 98. As a result, the upper element 22, lower element 24, and swinging elements 25 and 26 constitute the first movable part 99a which is movable with respect to the stationary part 98 (upright stump 64 and middle element 23). On the other hand, the vertically moving element 60 constitutes the second movable part 99b which is movable with respect to the first movable part 99a (upper element 22).
FIGS. 16 and 17 show figure 4 (hereinafter referred to as a "third figure 4") in which the vertical swinging movement of the vertically moving element 60 can be performed by another system in the upper element 22.
The vertically moving element 60 used in the third figure 4 is substantially similar in configuration to that used in the second figure 4, except that a disk 73 is provided on the upper end of the driven shaft 20 of the third figure 4. As a result, when the moving element 60 is in the lower position while swinging, the underside of the moving element 60 is pressed onto the periphery of the above disk 73. The top surface of the disk 73 is partially provided with an eccentric rotor 74 in the form of a beveled cam which extends along the circumferential edge of the disk 73 and gradually increases in height in the rotary direction.
When the driven shaft 20 rotates, the eccentric rotor 74 is accordingly pressed onto the underside of the vertically moving element 60 and presses the vertically moving element 60 upward. After the eccentric rotor 74 has passed across the underside of the vertically moving element 60, the vertically moving element 60 swings downward by its own weight. The above sequence of operations are repeatedly performed, with the result that the third figure 4 exhibits a similar movement to that exhibited by the second figure 4. Consequently, in the third figure 4, that portion of the underside of the vertically moving element 60 pressed onto the eccentric rotor 74 functions as the engagement member.
In the third figure 4, the upper end of the driven shaft 20 is not provided with the pin-shaped rotor 50 (see FIG. 15), unlike the first and second figures 4. This is because, if the pin-shaped eccentric rotor 50 had been provided in the third figure 4, it would have interfered with the vertically moving element 60. Since the third figure 4 does not have the pin-shaped eccentric rotor 50, the upper element 22 does not perform horizontal swinging movement.
Next, a description will be given to the figure 4 shown in FIGS. 18 to 20 (hereinafter referred to as a "fourth figure 4").
In the fourth figure 4, the detailed description of the components similar to those of the above first figure 4 will be omitted by providing the same reference numerals. A description will be given only to structures and functions different from those of the first figure 4.
The fourth figure 4 is in the form of a male doll in a standing position. If a description will be given first to the operation of the fourth figure 4, the fourth figure 4 is so constituted as to repeatedly and simultaneously perform a total of four actions of: transversely rocking the upper element 22 (representing a head); forwardly and rearwardly swaying the middle element 23 (representing a torso); transversely swinging the swinging element 26 (representing a right hand); and vertically swinging the vertically moving elements 27 and 28 (representing legs).
In the fourth figure 4, the middle element 23 is supported by the lower element 24 such that it can swing in the longitudinal direction with respect to the lower element 24. Specifically, the upper portion of the lower element 24 is provided with a pair of left and right braces 100 protruding upward. The braces 100 are provided with respective support pins 101 protruding outwardly toward the left and toward the right, respectively. Engagement holes 102 in which the corresponding support pins 101 can be inserted are formed in the interior of the middle element 23. Each of the engagement holes 102 is in the shape of an oblong hole extending vertically.
An overhanging piece 36 provided on the upper end of the first driven shaft 33 has its upper end formed into a circular arc in cross section, as shown in FIG. 19. The overhanging piece 36 is provided with a pivotal pin 103 which radially protrudes outward and orthogonally crosses the axis of the first driven shaft 33. The boss 34 of the second driven shaft 31 is formed with a notched bearing 34a into which the pivotal pin 103 is to be fitted. Consequently, the second driven shaft 31 can be supported by the first driven shaft 33 via the pivotal pin 103.
As a result, as the second driven shaft 31 rotates, the second driven shaft 31 moves vertically and diagonally to the first driven shaft 33. Such a movement is caused by the action of the cam face 34A provided on the lower end of the boss 34 being pressed onto the cam surface 45A of the cam 45 in the lower element 24. Consequently, there can be performed a humorous as well as rhythmical movement such that the doll (figure 4) repeatedly sways its torso (middle element 23) forward and rearward above its hip.
The swinging element 25 representing a left hand is fixed to the middle element 23 in the fourth figure 4.
On the other hand, the swinging element 26 representing the right hand is provided with pivotal pins 26b coaxially protruding upward and downward at the joint of the swinging element 26. These upper and lower pivotal pins 26b are held rotatably with respect to the middle element 23. As a result, the swinging element 26 can swing from side to side with respect to the middle element 23.
The swinging element 26 is integrally formed with a swinging piece 79 in the form of a transversely elongated ring, which extends from the pivotal pins 26b toward the interior of the middle element 23. A transversely elongated hole formed inside the ring-shaped swinging piece 79 is used as an engagement member 78. On the other hand, that portion of the second driven shaft 31 corresponding to the swinging piece 79 is formed into a crank by bending. The vertical portion of the crank eccentric and in parallel with the rotation axis of the second driven shaft 31 serves as an eccentric rotor 80, which passes through the engagement member 78 of the swinging piece 79. Consequently, when the second driven shaft 31 rotates, the swinging piece 79 is caused to swing forward and rearward, which then causes the swinging element 26 to swing transversely around the pivotal pins 26b. As a result, there can be performed a humorous as well as rhythmical movement such that the doll (figure 4) swings its right arm (swinging element 26) from side to side.
As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the vertically moving elements 27 and 28 provided in the lower element 24 of the fourth figure 4 are designed such that the pivotal pins 53 are forcibly fitted into the vertically moving elements 27 and 28 from below. In this respect, the fourth figure 4 is different from the first figure 4 in which the vertically moving elements 27 and 28 are attached to the pivotal pins 53 from above such that the pivotal pins 53 are fitted into the vertically moving elements 27 and 28.
It is also possible to alternatively design the fourth figure 4 such that it is mounted on the pedestal 2 via a support 97 in the form of a disk or the like, as shown in FIG. 19.
In the fourth figure 4, the upper element 22, middle element 23, swinging element 26 and vertically moving elements 27 and 28 constitute the individual movable parts 99 to be driven by the driving unit 3. On the other hand, the lower element 24 constitutes the stationary part 98 which can be removably attached to the pedestal 2. Of these components, the middle element 23 and vertically moving elements 27 and 28 constitute the first movable part 99a which is movable with respect to the stationary part, while the upper element 22 and swinging element 26 constitute the second movable part 99b which is movable with respect to the first movable part 99a (middle element 23).
FIG. 21 shows a fifth figure 4 in the form of a female doll in a standing position. The fifth figure 4 is substantially the same as the second figure 4 described above (see FIGS. 10 to 15), with three differences which will be described below. In FIG. 21, the components of the fifth figure 4 performing the same functions as those of the second figure 4 are designated by the same reference numerals.
The first difference is that the swinging elements 25 and 26 representing the left and right arms of the fifth figure 4 are designed to swing vertically in front of the middle element 23, while each of the swinging elements 25 and 26 of the second figure 4 is designed to swing transversely.
Consequently, the left and right swinging elements 25 and 26 are connected integrally by means of a connecting rod 110 penetrating the middle element 23. The middle portion in the transverse direction of the connecting rod 110 is warped, so that the concave surface of the warped portion serves as an engagement member 111. The left and right swinging elements 25 and 26 are also connected in front of the middle element 23, as if the doll is folding its arms.
That portion of the driven shaft 20 intersecting the connecting rod 110 is formed into a crank by bending. The vertical portion of the crank which is eccentric and in parallel with the rotation axis of the driven shaft 20 serves as an eccentric rotor 112. The eccentric rotor 112 is so positioned that, while performing a circular movement with the rotation of the driven shaft 20, the circular track thereof is partially brought into contact and interference with the engagement member 111 of the connecting rod 110.
Therefore, when the driven shaft 20 rotates, the eccentric rotor 112 interferes with (or is pressed onto) the engagement member 111 and tends to press the connecting rod 110 forward, so that the rotary power is transmitted by the action. On the other hand, when the eccentric rotor 112 does not interfere with the engagement member 111 any more, the connecting rod 110 rotates in the opposite direction by the weights of the swinging elements 25 and 26. As a result, there can be performed a humorous as well as rhythmical movement such that the doll (fifth figure 4) periodically vertically moves their arms (swinging elements 25 and 26) being folded.
The second difference is that the fifth figure 4 is so constituted as to sway its upper element 22 forward and rearward with respect to the middle element 23, while the second figure 4 is so constituted as to swing the upper element 22 in the transverse direction.
Specifically, the head 23a provided in the middle element 23 of the fifth figure 4 is provided with the pivotal pins 46 protruding coaxially and horizontally toward the left and toward the right. Consequently, the upper element 22 is held around the pivotal pins 46 such that it can swing in the longitudinal direction. The horizontal partition 48 provided in the upper element 22 is formed with the engagement member 49 in the form of a transversely elongated hole.
Accordingly, when the driven shaft 20 rotates, the engagement member 49 is pressed only forward and rearward by the circular movement performed by the pin-shaped eccentric rotor 50 provided on the upper end of the driven shaft 20. As a result, there can be performed a humorous as well as rhythmical movement such that the doll (figure 4) repeatedly tilts its head (upper element 22) toward the front and toward the back.
The third difference is that an overlying piece 115 in the shape of a bow is attached to the rear half of the upper element 22 so as to hide the small spring 29 fastened to join the front half and rear half of the upper element 22. The overlying piece 115 is secured to the rear half by forcible insertion or by adhesion.
FIG. 22 shows a six figure 4 in the form of a male doll in a standing position. The six figure 4 is substantially the same as the fourth figure 4 (see FIGS. 18 to 20) described above, with two differences which will be described below. In FIG. 22, the components performing the same functions as those of the fourth figure 4 are designated by the same reference numerals.
The first difference is that the sixth figure 4 is so constituted as to swing the upper element 22 forward and rearward with respect to the middle element 23, while the fourth figure 4 is so constituted as to swing the upper element 22 in the transverse direction.
Since the structure is the same as used in the above fifth figure 4, the detailed description thereof is omitted here.
The second difference is that a portion 120 representing the toes of the sixth figure 4 is secured to the lower element 24, while the portion 120 of the fourth figure 4 is capable of swinging vertically as the vertically moving elements 26 and 27. Therefore, it will be appreciated that the driven shaft 20 of the sixth figure 4 does not comprise the spiral wing 32.
FIG. 23 shows a second embodiment of the ornament 1 according to the present invention.
In the second embodiment, the description of the same components as used in the above first embodiment will be omitted by providing the same reference numerals.
In the ornament 1 of the second embodiment, the pedestal 2 is in the form of a box obtained by joining or bending plates made of wood, resin, metal, or like material. The underside of the pedestal 2 is provided with rubber legs 6. Consequently, there can be achieved the effects of absorbing vibration and holding the pedestal 2 at a given height (forming a given space below the pedestal 2). The effect of absorbing vibration is particularly effective in preventing the deterioration of sounds when the power unit 3 is a music box.
The internal space of the pedestal 2 is utilized as a container of a power unit 3 and as a coin storage unit 7, which are separated by a partition 8. A side wall 2a of the pedestal 2 is formed with a slot 9 for the insertion of a coin W. The slot 9 is connecting with the coin storage unit 7 by an inclined coin passage 10.
The bottom 2b of the pedestal 2b is provided with a back lid 11 for opening and closing the coin storage unit 7. The back lid 11 is rotatably attached to the pedestal 2 by means of a hinge 12. The closing state of the back lid 11 is maintained by a hook 13, which preferably has a locking structure.
As the power unit 3, a music box of rotary driven type is used, similarly to the first embodiment described above. Specifically, a reference numeral 14 designates a rotary drum, 15 designates a driving element (driving box) containing a spiral spring (the drawing thereof is omitted) for rotating the rotary drum 14, and 16 designates a winder for winding up the spiral spring. In addition to these, there is also held a diaphragm (reed) which is in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the rotary drum 14, though the description thereof is omitted. The side wall 2a or bottom 2b of the pedestal 2 may be formed with a hole through which a melody played by the music box is given to the outside.
The power unit 3 has an operating lever 17 with one end protruding toward the coin passage 10. The operating lever 17 is interlockingly connected with a halt system (not shown) for halting the rotation of the rotary drum 14. Therefore, if a coin W is inserted in the slot 9, the coin W falls down the coin passage 10 and presses the operating lever 17 downward on its way to the coin storage unit 7. Consequently, the halt system is activated via the operating lever 17, which initiates the rotation of the rotary drum 14 (with the power unit 3 being activated).
Unlike the first embodiment, the power unit 3 of the second embodiment does not comprise a sequence of gears. To a drum axis 4a projecting upward above the rotary drum 14 is connected an extended short shaft 19, thereby constituting a drive shaft 18. The drive shaft 18 is in turn connected to a driven shaft 20 disposed inside the figure 4, thereby constituting a rotary shaft 5 as a whole.
Unlike the first embodiment, the top surface 2c of the pedestal 2 of the second embodiment is provided with an alignment projection 21. By fitting the projection 21 into the figure 4, the figure 4 can be placed in a specified position (with the drive shaft 18 being coaxial with the driven shaft 20).
It will be appreciated that the first to sixth figures previously described can be adapted to the ornament 1 of the present embodiment.
FIG. 24 shows a third embodiment of the ornament 1 according to the present invention.
In the third embodiment, the description of the same components as used in the above first embodiment will be omitted by providing the same reference numerals.
In the third embodiment, extended short shaft 19 is provided with a sequence of gears 75, thereby adding two driven shafts 76 and 77 to the power unit 3 such that they can be interlocked with the extended short shaft 19. Above the pedestal 2, the second figure 4 (or third figure) is attached to the driven shaft 76 at the center. On both sides of the driven shaft 76, the fist figures 4 are attached to the extended short shaft 19 and to the driven shaft 77. Accordingly, on the activation of the power unit 3, the three figures 4 begin to move simultaneously with the same timing or with different timings. If the three figures 4 are of different types, in particular, different movements are performed in combination, which renders the overall movement attractive.
As described above, the third embodiment is so constituted that the sequence of gears 75 are connected to the music box via the extended short shaft 19 in the power unit 3. Consequently, the attachment and detachment of the music box can be performed easily. In other words, the music box can be easily detached with advantage for repair or for replacement by another music box which plays another melody.
For example, if an object shaped like a piano or the like is disposed in front of one of the first figures 4, an object shaped like a drum or the like is disposed in front of the other first figure 4, and an object shaped like a microphone is further disposed in front of the second figure 4, though the drawing thereof is omitted, the disposition presents an appearance of an orchestra as if lead by a singer, which renders the ornament more appealing to the user.
FIGS. 25 to 27 show a fourth embodiment of the ornament 1 according to the present invention.
In the fourth embodiment, a total of four figures 4 are disposed above the pedestal 2. As shown in FIG. 25, a fourth figure (contrabassist), a fifth figure (singer), a sixth figure (violinist), and a first figure (pianist) are disposed in this order from left to right. In each of the figures 4 is used a movable eyeball 125, in which a black ball is allowed to move spontaneously in a transparent capsule, to be provided in the upper element 22. Consequently, every time each of the figures 4 moves its upper element 22 or the like, the eyeball 125 (the black ball in the transparent capsule) moves around simultaneously.
As is apparent from the above description, the pedestal 2 of the fourth embodiment is provided with output ends 18a (not shown) corresponding to the four individual figures 4. The power unit 3 for activating the output ends 18a comprises the sequence of gears 75 and can be interlocked with the individual output ends 18a. In this respect, the fourth embodiment is the same as the above third embodiment (see FIG. 24).
However, the power unit 3 of the fourth embodiment uses an electric motor 130 in place of the music box, unlike the third embodiment. Hence, the pedestal 2 contains the electric motor 130, a power unit 131, and a drive control element 132 therein, as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27.
In the fourth embodiment, the rotation axis of the electric motor 130 is connected to the sequence of gears 75 by a belt transmitting means 134, thereby preventing slight vibration and noise caused by the electric motor 130. If an overload occurs in the sequence of gears 75 or the like, the belt transmitting means 134 exerts a sliding effect, which advantageously prevents the burning of the electric motor 130.
A dry battery is used as the power unit 131. The power unit 131 can be composed of a combination of a rectifier, a transformer, and the like, thereby enabling the supply of power from an external power source. Alternatively, there can also be adopted a structure in which the dry battery system and the external power-source system can be selectively used by switching.
The drive control element 132 has a sound generating function and a time broadcasting function.
With the sound generating function of the drive control element 132, a sound is generated in synchronization with the activation of the power unit 3. The sound to be generated is not limited to any particular kind. For example, it may be music, an electronic sound, a beeping sound, a recorded sound (a verbal sound, a melody, the sound made by an animal, etc.), a broadcast, the sound of a bell, or the like. As a structure for implementing the sound generating function, an IC chip, a recording device (using a cassette tape or the like), a beeper, a broadcast receiving device, a bell activator, or the like can be used, depending on the type of the sound to be generated.
With the time broadcasting function of the drive control element 132, the power unit 3 is activated every one hour for a specified period of time (e.g., 30 seconds) and then automatically halted. To the drive control unit 132 is connected an operational switch 140 for turning ON and OFF the time broadcasting function. The operational switch 140 is mounted such that its operational portion is situated in a position exposed to the outside of the pedestal 2 (although a back surface or a bottom surface is preferred, it is not limited thereto).
The operational switch 140 has three switching positions. At the intermediate position of the three switching positions, the foregoing time broadcasting function is inactivated (i.e., turned OFF). In one adjacent position to the intermediate position, the time broadcasting function is activated (i.e., turned ON). In the other adjacent position to the intermediate position, the power unit 3 is continuously operated. In other words, when the operational switch 140 is switched to the position for continuous operation, the user can enjoy the performance of the figures 4 at a desired time for a desired period of time.
In the fourth embodiment, a background unit 143 is provided in the pedestal 2 such that it is positioned behind the figures 4. The background unit 143 is provided with a clock 144, which receives the supply of electricity from the above power unit 131. Although the clock 144 shown in the drawing has hands, the clock 144 may be of digital display type. It will be appreciated that the clock 144 may be of analog type (screw driven type).
It is also possible to connect the clock 144 to the drive control element 132 by means of a circuit so as to impart an alarming function to the drive control element 132. Specifically, the power unit 3 may be activated at a desired time for a specified period of time (e.g., 30 seconds) and then automatically halted (alternatively, these sequence of operations may be repeated at given time intervals, e.g., 5 minutes).
In the fourth embodiment, there are also provided containers 147 and 148 which can swing horizontally. Between the containers 147 and 148 is disposed a drawer-type container 149. These containers 147, 148, and 149 are provided by utilizing that portion of the internal space of the pedestal 2 which is not used for the electric motor 130, power unit 131, and drive control element 132.
The present invention is not limited to the foregoing individual embodiments. If required, it can be modified appropriately.
For example, the material and structure of the pedestal 2 is not limited to the foregoing provided that it has a hollow portion in which the power unit 3 and the like can be contained. For example, the pedestal 2 can be formed by carving a natural stone. Alternatively, it can be formed into one piece from resin or clay. Alternatively, it can be formed from a metal plate by a deep drawing process.
The pedestal 2 can also be formed into any outer configuration. For example, it can be formed into a cube, various types of columns and prisms, various types of cones and pyramids, or a sphere. The pedestal 2 itself can be formed into a doll in the shape of a human being or an animal. The pedestal 2 itself can be formed into an object.
In the case where the pedestal 2 is used as a saving box, the coin storage unit 7 itself can be formed into a drawer. It will be appreciated that there can be the case where the ornament does not have the function as a saving box, as described above in the fourth embodiment.
Although the above embodiments have adopted the music box of spiral spring type as the power unit 3, an electric music box can be adopted instead.
In the drive shaft 18, the output end 18a thereof is not necessarily held so as to protrude from the top surface of the pedestal 2. Instead, the output end 18a may be disposed inside the pedestal 2.
The presence or absence of the extended short shaft 18 and the presence or absence of the drive shaft 18 can be selected arbitrarily.
For example, the drive shaft 18 can be provided integrally with and directly on the music box axis 14a. If the power unit 3 is composed of the music box, the output end 18a can be formed directly on the upper end of the rotary drum 14.
The drive shaft 18, the driven shaft 20, and the like can be integrated into a one-piece rotary shaft 5 (see FIGS. 23 and 24).
The figure 4 can be formed in the shape of various objects other than a human being, such as an animal, a vehicle, and a building. The figure 4 can also be formed into other imaginary creature.
It is also possible to provide only one movable part 99 in the figure 4.
The individual components (e.g., the head 23a and the swinging elements 25 and 26 in the middle element 23) of the figure 4 can be formed from a flexible material. With the arrangement, the configuration of the figure 4 can be modified subtly in accordance with a request, thereby imparting distinctive individuality to the figure. The constitution is particularly advantageous in the case where various objects are used in combination, as in the fourth embodiment (see FIG. 25). In the swinging elements 25 and 26 or the like, it is also possible to adopt, between the arm and the wrist, a structure allowing the adjustment of the mounting angle therebetween.

Industrial Applicability

Thus, with the ornament with a movable figure according to the present invention, a single pedestal can be used in common by a plurality of figures, since the figures are detachable from the pedestal, resulting in lower cost. Moreover, since various figures can be fabricated, a user can select more freely among them and vary the combination of figures depending on his taste. Furthermore, inventory control in the sales and distribution of the products is facilitated.
If a music box is used as the power unit, it not only serves as the power unit for a figure, but also plays music, resulting in the increased attractiveness and simplified structure of the ornament.
If the internal space of the pedestal except for the portion used as the container of the power unit is adapted to a saving box, the effective use of the dead space can be achieved, while enhancing the practicality of the ornament. In particular, since the drive switch of the power unit can be operated by the motion of a coin to be saved, the user will be more motivated to save money.
If an electric motor is used as the power unit, it saves the trouble of winding up the spiral spring each time it is unwound, unlike the case where the music box is used as the power unit. In this case, since a power source is used to activate the electric motor, it is also possible to impart a sound generating function using the power source. With the sound generating function, various sounds can be generated.
It is also possible to provide the drive control element disposed in the power unit with a time broadcasting function. Consequently, the power unit can be so constituted as to be automatically activated at given time intervals, e.g., every one hour.
If a clock is provided in the pedestal, the ornament of the present invention can be used not only as a mere ornament but also as a desk clock, which increases the practicality thereof.
If the drive control element is connected to the clock by means of a circuit, the power unit can be automatically activated at a given set time, so that the ornament of the present invention can also function as an alarm clock. As a result, the practicality of the ornament of the present invention is further increased.
Since the figure according to the present invention is simple in structure and can perform complicated movements, it can be designed to exhibit a variety of expressions.
Since the figure of the present invention can produce a novel and fantastic scene through its mechanism, the viewer's impression of the monotonous movement and crude mechanism of the figure can be eliminated. In short, since the ornament of the present invention is higher in grade than a conventional product, it is suitable for use not only as a toy but also as a quality gift.
2...pedestal, 3...power unit, 4...figure, 7...coin storage unit, 9...slot for insertion of coin, 17...operating lever, 18a...output end, 20a...input end, 20...driven shaft, 30...spiral wing, 31...second driven shaft, 32...spiral wing, 33...first driven shaft, 34A...cam surface, 45A...cam surface, 49...engagement member, 50...eccentric rotor, 52...interlocking pin, 54...interlocking pin, 65...engagement member, 60a...engagement member, 66...eccentric rotor, 74...eccentric rotor, 78...engagement member, 80...eccentric rotor, 98...stationary part, 99...movable part, 99a...first movable part, 99b...second movable part, 111...engagement member, 112...eccentric rotor, 132...drive control element, 144..clock, W...coin

Claims

An ornament with a movable figure comprising:
a pedestal (2);
a power unit (3) provided in said pedestal (2); and
a figure (4) provided on said pedestal (2), wherein
said figure (4) comprises a stationary part (98) which is removably attached to said pedestal (2) and a movable part (99) which is movable with respect to said stationary part (98),
said power unit (3) is provided with an output end (18a),
said stationary part (98) is provided with an input end (20a) which is removably connected to said output end (18a) by engagement, and
said movable part (99) is adapted to be driven by power from said input end (20a).
An ornament with a movable figure according to claim 1, wherein
said output end (18a) outputs rotary power,
said input end (20a) is formed at an end of a driven shaft (20) which is rotatably supported by said stationary part (98), and
said driven shaft (20) and said movable part (99) are interlockingly connected with each other.
An ornament with a movable figure according to claim 1, wherein
said pedestal (2) comprises a box-type casing,
said power unit (3) comprises a music box disposed in said pedestal (2),
said pedestal (2) is internally provided with a coin storage unit (7), while an outer circumferential surface of said pedestal (2) is formed with a slot (9) communicating with said coin storage unit (7), and
an operating lever (17) is provided in said pedestal (2), said operating lever (17) being adapted to be operated by a coin (W) inserted from said slot (9) so as to drive said power unit (3).
An ornament with a movable figure according to claim 1, wherein
said pedestal (2) comprises a box-type casing, and
said power unit (3) comprises an electric motor disposed in said pedestal (2).
An ornament with a movable figure according to claim 4, wherein
said power unit (3) is provided with a drive control element (132) having a time broadcasting function such that said power unit (3) is automatically activated by said drive control element (132).
An ornament with a movable figure according to claim 1, wherein said pedestal (2) is provided with a clock (144).
An ornament with a movable figure, wherein
said drive control element (132) as recited in claim 5 is connected to said clock (144) as recited in claim 6 by means of a circuit so as to automatically activate said power unit (3) at a given set time.
A figure according to claim 1, wherein
said movable part (99) comprises a first movable part (99a) which is movable with respect to said stationary part (98) and a second movable part (99b) which is movable with respect to said first movable part (99a).
A figure according to claim 2, wherein
said driven shaft (20) is provided with spiral wings (30) and (32) and with eccentric rotors (50), (66), (74), (80) and (112), and
said movable part (99) is provided with interlocking pins (52) and (54) which are engaged with said spiral wings (30) and (32), respectively, and with engagement members (49), (65), (60a), (78) and (111) which are engaged with said eccentric rotors (50), (66), (74), (80) and (112), respectively.
A figure according to claim 2, wherein
said driven shaft (20) comprises a first driven shaft (33) having said input end (20a) and a second driven shaft (31) connected to said first driven shaft (33) in such a manner that said second driven shaft (31) is movable with respect to said first driven shaft (33) and is capable of transmitting power thereto,
said second driven shaft (31) is supported by said movable part (99) and provided with a cam surface (34A), and
said stationary part (98) is formed with a cam surface (45A) which is engaged with said cam surface (34A).