US20130095725A1 - Figurine toy in combination with a portable, removable wireless computer device having a visual display screen - Google Patents
Figurine toy in combination with a portable, removable wireless computer device having a visual display screen Download PDFInfo
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- US20130095725A1 US20130095725A1 US13/647,801 US201213647801A US2013095725A1 US 20130095725 A1 US20130095725 A1 US 20130095725A1 US 201213647801 A US201213647801 A US 201213647801A US 2013095725 A1 US2013095725 A1 US 2013095725A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- smartphone
- type device
- receptacle
- facial features
- display screen
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63H—TOYS, e.g. TOPS, DOLLS, HOOPS OR BUILDING BLOCKS
- A63H3/00—Dolls
- A63H3/36—Details; Accessories
- A63H3/48—Mounting of parts within dolls, e.g. automatic eyes or parts for animation
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
- H04M1/72—Mobile telephones; Cordless telephones, i.e. devices for establishing wireless links to base stations without route selection
- H04M1/724—User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones
- H04M1/72403—User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality
- H04M1/72409—User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality by interfacing with external accessories
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
- H04M1/72—Mobile telephones; Cordless telephones, i.e. devices for establishing wireless links to base stations without route selection
- H04M1/724—User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones
- H04M1/72403—User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality
- H04M1/72427—User interfaces specially adapted for cordless or mobile telephones with means for local support of applications that increase the functionality for supporting games or graphical animations
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63H—TOYS, e.g. TOPS, DOLLS, HOOPS OR BUILDING BLOCKS
- A63H2200/00—Computerized interactive toys, e.g. dolls
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63H—TOYS, e.g. TOPS, DOLLS, HOOPS OR BUILDING BLOCKS
- A63H3/00—Dolls
- A63H3/28—Arrangements of sound-producing means in dolls; Means in dolls for producing sounds
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M1/00—Substation equipment, e.g. for use by subscribers
- H04M1/02—Constructional features of telephone sets
- H04M1/04—Supports for telephone transmitters or receivers
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to the field of figurine toys representing an animal, person or animated creature having a face.
- the invention also relates generally to figurine toys or other objects adapted to receive and retain a portable wireless computer device having a visual display screen, wherein software applications control the visual display.
- Portable, hand-held, wireless computer devices that are smaller than laptop computers are well known, such as for example tablets, smartphones, gaming devices, music players or like devices having display screens. Tablets are represented for example by devices such as the Ipad or Itouch. Smartphones are represented for example by devices such as the Iphone or Droid. Gaming devices are represented for example by devices such as Nintendo DS or PSP gaming systems. Music players are represented for example by devices such as Ipods or MP3 players.
- Tablets and smartphones share certain features, such as a generally rectangular shape with a prominent display screen and no hinged cover, wireless communication ability via a global communication network (i.e., the Internet) or cell networks, and the ability to download or run a multitude of software programs or applications (commonly referred to as apps) that accomplish various tasks.
- apps software programs or applications
- the term “smartphone-type device” shall be used herein to reference, define and include any suitable tablet, smartphone, gaming device or music player having a visual display screen.
- the term “figurine toy” shall be used herein to reference, define and include any type of toy that includes, normally includes or presents a face possessing facial features (e.g., eyes, nose and mouth) such as for example dolls, stuffed animals, plush animals, robots, imagined creatures or the like, wherein in a particular embodiment or status the face or facial features may be hidden upon combination with the smartphone-type device, i.e., upon insertion of the smartphone-type device into a receptacle, pocket or the like provided in the figurine toy.
- the figurine toy may present other anatomical features, e.g., a belly, the skull, legs arms, etc., wherein in a particular embodiment or status the anatomical features may be hidden upon combination with the smartphone-type device.
- the object retaining the smartphone-type device may comprise a medium to present a two-dimensional drawings of a person, animal, object or entity that includes, normally includes or presents a face having facial features, wherein in a particular embodiment or status the face or facial features, or anatomical features, are not visibly present, such as may be presented in book-form or in a single sheet.
- figurine toys Various temporary holders for smartphone-type devices are known, and some of these holders are provided as figurine toys.
- figurine toys lack the improved features present in the current invention as disclosed and described herein—most particularly the presence of static facial features.
- the presence of static facial figures on the figurine toy allows the toy to be utilized as a complete and independent toy when the smartphone-type device is not combined with the figurine toy to present animated facial features.
- the invention comprises the combination of a figurine toy and a smartphone-type device, along with display-controlling software.
- the figurine toy comprises a receptacle, receiving pocket or mating area (provided for example with releasable fasteners, elastic straps, snaps, plastic frame or the like) adapted and structured to temporarily receive and retain the smartphone-type device such that the display screen of the smartphone-type device remains visible.
- the receptacle is located in the head or face of the figurine toy and comprises an opening through which the display screen of the smartphone-type device is exposed for viewing when the smartphone-type device is positioned in the receptacle.
- a retention member such as for example a releasable flap or strap, is provided to better retain the smartphone-type device within the figurine toy during use.
- the display-controlling software application or app provides a visible animated display on the display screen of the smartphone-type device, the animated display comprising all or some facial features such as the eyes, nose and mouth when the receptacle is located at the face location.
- the animated display With the smartphone-type device properly positioned within the receptacle of the figurine toy, the animated display becomes the face or facial features of the figurine toy when viewed by the user.
- the animated display may be interactive or non-interactive with the user. In the non-interactive mode, predetermined facial actions and movements (e.g., smiling, winking, talking, singing, other images, etc.) will be presented to the user by the app.
- the facial actions and movements presented to the user by the app will be responsive to physical or verbal input from the user, such as by touching certain areas, tilting or other movement, or communication from other electronic devices.
- Activation of the visible animated display may require user action or may be automatically triggered upon insertion into the receptacle of the figurine toy.
- the apps will present two operational modes—one visual display being the animated facial expressions and the other being a traditional story telling, game playing mode featuring an animated character or characters, preferably matching the character presented by the figurine toy.
- the invention is the combination of a figurine toy and a removable smartphone-type device; said smartphone-type device comprising a visual display screen and controlled by one or more software applications whereby animated facial features are presented on said visual display screen, wherein said smartphone-type device is chosen from the group of smartphone-type devices consisting of portable computer tablets, smartphones, gaming devices and music players, and wherein said one or more software applications provide a first mode presenting animated facial features on said visual display screen and a second mode presenting story telling or game playing displays on said visual display screen; said figurine toy comprising static facial features and a receptacle adapted to receive and retain said smartphone-type device, said receptacle comprising a front opening positioned such that said static facial features are visible through said front opening when said smartphone-type device is removed from said receptacle, and further wherein said receptacle is structured such that said static facial features are obscured by said smartphone-type device and said visual display screen of said smartphone-type device is visible through said front opening when said smartphone-type device
- the invention may further embody a sensor mechanism positioned within said receptacle, said sensor mechanism adapted to communicate with said smartphone-type device upon insertion or removal of said smartphone-type device from said receptacle; wherein upon insertion of said smartphone-type device into said receptacle, said one or more software applications automatically provides said first mode presenting animated facial features on said visual display screen, and further wherein upon removal of said smartphone-type device from said receptacle, said one or more software applications provides said second mode presenting story telling or game playing displays on said visual display screen.
- FIG. 1 shows a representative embodiment of a figurine toy prior to combination with a smartphone-type device, the figurine toy comprising an animal body, wherein the facial features of the figurine toy are static embroidered elements present on the rear wall of the smartphone-type device receptacle.
- FIG. 2 shows the figurine toy embodiment of FIG. 1 during insertion of the smartphone-type device into the receptacle, whereby the static facial features of the figurine toy will be obscured by the smartphone-type device.
- FIG. 3 shows the figurine toy embodiment of FIG. 1 in combination with a smartphone-type device, the smartphone-type device being fully received in the receptacle such that the display screen of the smartphone-type device is exposed through the forward opening of the receptacle and the static embroidered elements are covered by the smartphone-type device and the facial features visible through the receptacle opening are animated images on the smartphone-type device display screen.
- FIG. 4 is a top view showing the figurine toy embodiment of FIG. 3 with the retention member opened to expose the smartphone-type device as received within the receptacle of the figurine toy.
- FIG. 5 shows multi-page book in combination with a smartphone-type device, the smartphone-type device positioned in a receptacle formed on the inside back cover of the book, the pages of the book each having a viewing window such that the display screen of the smartphone-type device is exposed, such that the facial features visible through the receptacle opening are images on the smartphone-type display screen.
- FIGS. 1-4 A preferred embodiment of the invention is depicted in FIGS. 1-4 , wherein the figurine toy 10 comprises a stuffed or plush animal having a body 11 , head 12 , ears 42 and appendages (legs or arms) 41 .
- the face of the figurine toy 10 as shown in FIG. 1 prior to combination with a smartphone-type device 20 comprises static facial features 18 (eyes, nose and mouth) positioned on the rear wall 14 of a receptacle 13 , the static facial features 18 being visible through the front opening 15 of the receptacle 13 .
- the figurine toy 10 visually presents itself as a complete and independent figurine toy, capable of play interaction using imagination.
- figurine toy 10 is but an example of a myriad of possible shapes and depictions, and the scope of the invention is not to be limited by the representative depiction shown in FIGS. 1 through 4 .
- figurine toy 10 could be presented in the shape of any animal, human figure, doll, robot, etc. having static facial features in the form of eyes, nose, mouth or the like.
- the receptacle 13 is a generally rectangular void, pocket, mating configuration or other construct adapted to receive and retain a smartphone-type device 20 such that the smartphone-type device 20 is temporarily yet securely retained within the receptacle 13 with the display screen 21 of the smartphone-type device 20 visible through the front opening 15 of the receptacle 13 , as shown in FIG. 3 .
- the head 12 of the figurine toy 10 is provided with compressible padding behind the rear wall 14 of the receptacle 13 such that retention pressure is applied to the smartphone-type device 20 when it is inserted into the receptacle 13 .
- the front opening 15 of the receptacle 13 may be provided with an elastic perimeter for retention of the smartphone-type device 20 .
- a releasable retention member 17 shown as a flap with releasable fasteners 19 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 , may be provided, the retention member 17 being positioned at the top of the receptacle 13 as shown in the drawings or to the side such that an insertion opening or slot 16 is formed, the smartphone-type device 20 being inserted or removed from the receptacle 13 by opening the retention member 17 , as shown in FIG. 2 . It is preferred that the retention member 17 be not readily discernable once the smartphone-type device 20 has been inserted so as not to detract from the visual presentation of the figurine toy 10 .
- the receptacle 13 may comprise mechanical connections or relatively rigid frame members to temporarily retain the smartphone-type device 20 within the figurine toy 10 .
- the receptacle 13 may comprise a pair of releasable or elastic strap members into which the smartphone-type device is inserted, such that the rear wall 14 of the receptacle 13 is actually the external surface of the figurine toy 10 located behind and between the strap members.
- animated facial features 22 e.g., eyes, nose, mouth
- dedicated software apps will be visible on the display screen 21 through the front opening 15 of the receptacle 13 , such that the face of the figurine toy 10 comprises the animated facial features 22 displayed by the smartphone-type device 20 .
- the apps produce motion for the features 22 and sound effects, such as voice, animal sounds, snoring, laughing, etc., such that for example the figurine toy 10 can be made to talk, laugh, sleep, look in different directions, wink, change facial expressions, etc.
- the software apps may be non-interactive with pre-determined motion and sound, or may be interactive such that motion and sound is responsive to physical or verbal cues provided by the user (e.g., saying certain words, pressing an arm or a leg, petting the head, tilting, rocking, spinning, shaking or moving the figurine toy 10 , etc.).
- sensing or recognition mechanisms 23 to communicate or control the smartphone-type device 20 such that the smartphone-type device 20 is aware of its status upon being inserted into the receptacle 13 of the figurine toy 10 or upon being separated from the figurine toy 10 , such that the differing visual displays and programs are automatically activated.
- the smartphone-type device 20 app may automatically shift into the animated facial feature mode.
- the smartphone-type device 20 app shifts to a traditional story telling or game playing mode, preferably related in content to the figurine toy 10 .
- Any suitable sensor or mechanism 23 may be utilized to present the proper command to the smartphone-type device 20 app upon insertion or removal, such as for example physical contacts detectable by the display screen through pressure, magnetism, electronic signal or the like.
- FIG. 5 Another smartphone-type device receiving object is shown in FIG. 5 , wherein a multi-page book 30 is shown that comprises multiple two-dimensional drawings, paintings or other representations of animals, entities, dolls, robots, etc. 100 having or expected to have facial features.
- the pages 31 of the book 30 are provided with a viewing window 32 to collectively define or expose a receptacle 33 formed in the inside back cover of the book 30 .
- the back of the receptacle is provided with static facial features.
- the smartphone-type device 20 is positioned in the receptacle 33 with the display screen 21 exposed through the front viewing window 32 . In this manner the animated facial features 22 appear to form the face of the two dimensional drawing 100 .
- the dedicated software applications produce motion for the features 22 and sound effects, such as voice, animal sounds, snoring, laughing, etc., such that for example the drawing 100 can be made to talk, laugh, sleep, look in different directions, wink, change facial expressions, etc.
- the software applications may be non-interactive with pre-determined motion and sound, or may be interactive such that motion and sound is responsive to physical or verbal cues provided by the user (e.g., saying certain words, turning a page, etc.).
- the software applications may allow the book 30 to be read aloud by the animated facial features 22 as the pages are turned, for example.
- the dedicated software applications in effect create a virtual facial pet, i.e., a figurine toy 10 with animated facial features, or enhance the overall story with audio content or commands, when the smartphone-type device 20 is combined with the figurine toy 10 , with an infinite number of possible story lines, character presentations and interactive communications and actions.
- the dedicated software applications will also allow the smartphone-type device 20 to present animated video presentations of a virtual pet when separated from the figurine toy 10 , such as the type normally seen on a DVD player, computer screen, television or the like, such that episodic stories, detailed character information, etc. can be presented the user.
- a software application for a virtual facial pet with the smartphone-type device combined with the figurine toy 10 may operate in the following manner:
- Software applications that provide for a virtual pet when the smartphone-type device 20 is not combined with the figurine toy 10 may operate in the following manner:
Abstract
The combination of a figurine toy and a smartphone-type device, along with display-controlling software apps, the figurine toy having a receptacle, receiving pocket or mating area adapted and structured to temporarily receive and retain the smartphone-type device such that the visual display of the smartphone-type device presents animated facial features for the figurine toy, the smartphone-type device covering the static facial features of the figurine toy when received by the figurine toy.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/543,963, filed Oct. 6, 2011, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- This invention relates generally to the field of figurine toys representing an animal, person or animated creature having a face. The invention also relates generally to figurine toys or other objects adapted to receive and retain a portable wireless computer device having a visual display screen, wherein software applications control the visual display.
- Portable, hand-held, wireless computer devices that are smaller than laptop computers are well known, such as for example tablets, smartphones, gaming devices, music players or like devices having display screens. Tablets are represented for example by devices such as the Ipad or Itouch. Smartphones are represented for example by devices such as the Iphone or Droid. Gaming devices are represented for example by devices such as Nintendo DS or PSP gaming systems. Music players are represented for example by devices such as Ipods or MP3 players. Tablets and smartphones, as well as some gaming devices and music devices, share certain features, such as a generally rectangular shape with a prominent display screen and no hinged cover, wireless communication ability via a global communication network (i.e., the Internet) or cell networks, and the ability to download or run a multitude of software programs or applications (commonly referred to as apps) that accomplish various tasks. For simplicity, the term “smartphone-type device” shall be used herein to reference, define and include any suitable tablet, smartphone, gaming device or music player having a visual display screen.
- In similar manner, the term “figurine toy” shall be used herein to reference, define and include any type of toy that includes, normally includes or presents a face possessing facial features (e.g., eyes, nose and mouth) such as for example dolls, stuffed animals, plush animals, robots, imagined creatures or the like, wherein in a particular embodiment or status the face or facial features may be hidden upon combination with the smartphone-type device, i.e., upon insertion of the smartphone-type device into a receptacle, pocket or the like provided in the figurine toy. In addition, the figurine toy may present other anatomical features, e.g., a belly, the skull, legs arms, etc., wherein in a particular embodiment or status the anatomical features may be hidden upon combination with the smartphone-type device.
- Alternatively, the object retaining the smartphone-type device may comprise a medium to present a two-dimensional drawings of a person, animal, object or entity that includes, normally includes or presents a face having facial features, wherein in a particular embodiment or status the face or facial features, or anatomical features, are not visibly present, such as may be presented in book-form or in a single sheet.
- Various temporary holders for smartphone-type devices are known, and some of these holders are provided as figurine toys. However, such figurine toys lack the improved features present in the current invention as disclosed and described herein—most particularly the presence of static facial features. The presence of static facial figures on the figurine toy allows the toy to be utilized as a complete and independent toy when the smartphone-type device is not combined with the figurine toy to present animated facial features.
- In a broad sense, the invention comprises the combination of a figurine toy and a smartphone-type device, along with display-controlling software. The figurine toy comprises a receptacle, receiving pocket or mating area (provided for example with releasable fasteners, elastic straps, snaps, plastic frame or the like) adapted and structured to temporarily receive and retain the smartphone-type device such that the display screen of the smartphone-type device remains visible. In one embodiment, the receptacle is located in the head or face of the figurine toy and comprises an opening through which the display screen of the smartphone-type device is exposed for viewing when the smartphone-type device is positioned in the receptacle.
- Preferably, a retention member, such as for example a releasable flap or strap, is provided to better retain the smartphone-type device within the figurine toy during use.
- The display-controlling software application or app provides a visible animated display on the display screen of the smartphone-type device, the animated display comprising all or some facial features such as the eyes, nose and mouth when the receptacle is located at the face location. With the smartphone-type device properly positioned within the receptacle of the figurine toy, the animated display becomes the face or facial features of the figurine toy when viewed by the user. The animated display may be interactive or non-interactive with the user. In the non-interactive mode, predetermined facial actions and movements (e.g., smiling, winking, talking, singing, other images, etc.) will be presented to the user by the app. In the interactive mode, the facial actions and movements presented to the user by the app will be responsive to physical or verbal input from the user, such as by touching certain areas, tilting or other movement, or communication from other electronic devices. Activation of the visible animated display may require user action or may be automatically triggered upon insertion into the receptacle of the figurine toy. Most preferably, the apps will present two operational modes—one visual display being the animated facial expressions and the other being a traditional story telling, game playing mode featuring an animated character or characters, preferably matching the character presented by the figurine toy.
- In a preferred embodiment, the invention is the combination of a figurine toy and a removable smartphone-type device; said smartphone-type device comprising a visual display screen and controlled by one or more software applications whereby animated facial features are presented on said visual display screen, wherein said smartphone-type device is chosen from the group of smartphone-type devices consisting of portable computer tablets, smartphones, gaming devices and music players, and wherein said one or more software applications provide a first mode presenting animated facial features on said visual display screen and a second mode presenting story telling or game playing displays on said visual display screen; said figurine toy comprising static facial features and a receptacle adapted to receive and retain said smartphone-type device, said receptacle comprising a front opening positioned such that said static facial features are visible through said front opening when said smartphone-type device is removed from said receptacle, and further wherein said receptacle is structured such that said static facial features are obscured by said smartphone-type device and said visual display screen of said smartphone-type device is visible through said front opening when said smartphone-type device is retained within said receptacle; whereby with said smartphone-type device positioned within said receptacle of said figurine toy, said animated facial features are presented in place of said static facial features. The invention may further embody a sensor mechanism positioned within said receptacle, said sensor mechanism adapted to communicate with said smartphone-type device upon insertion or removal of said smartphone-type device from said receptacle; wherein upon insertion of said smartphone-type device into said receptacle, said one or more software applications automatically provides said first mode presenting animated facial features on said visual display screen, and further wherein upon removal of said smartphone-type device from said receptacle, said one or more software applications provides said second mode presenting story telling or game playing displays on said visual display screen.
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FIG. 1 shows a representative embodiment of a figurine toy prior to combination with a smartphone-type device, the figurine toy comprising an animal body, wherein the facial features of the figurine toy are static embroidered elements present on the rear wall of the smartphone-type device receptacle. -
FIG. 2 shows the figurine toy embodiment ofFIG. 1 during insertion of the smartphone-type device into the receptacle, whereby the static facial features of the figurine toy will be obscured by the smartphone-type device. -
FIG. 3 shows the figurine toy embodiment ofFIG. 1 in combination with a smartphone-type device, the smartphone-type device being fully received in the receptacle such that the display screen of the smartphone-type device is exposed through the forward opening of the receptacle and the static embroidered elements are covered by the smartphone-type device and the facial features visible through the receptacle opening are animated images on the smartphone-type device display screen. -
FIG. 4 is a top view showing the figurine toy embodiment ofFIG. 3 with the retention member opened to expose the smartphone-type device as received within the receptacle of the figurine toy. -
FIG. 5 shows multi-page book in combination with a smartphone-type device, the smartphone-type device positioned in a receptacle formed on the inside back cover of the book, the pages of the book each having a viewing window such that the display screen of the smartphone-type device is exposed, such that the facial features visible through the receptacle opening are images on the smartphone-type display screen. - With reference to the drawings, the invention in various embodiments will now be described in detail, the illustrations being presented as non-limiting representations such that the shape and dimensions of the figurine toys and the smartphone-type devices, for example, may vary.
- A preferred embodiment of the invention is depicted in
FIGS. 1-4 , wherein thefigurine toy 10 comprises a stuffed or plush animal having abody 11,head 12,ears 42 and appendages (legs or arms) 41. The face of thefigurine toy 10 as shown inFIG. 1 prior to combination with a smartphone-type device 20 comprises static facial features 18 (eyes, nose and mouth) positioned on therear wall 14 of areceptacle 13, the staticfacial features 18 being visible through thefront opening 15 of thereceptacle 13. In this status, thefigurine toy 10 visually presents itself as a complete and independent figurine toy, capable of play interaction using imagination. It is to be understood that the embodiment shown for thefigurine toy 10 is but an example of a myriad of possible shapes and depictions, and the scope of the invention is not to be limited by the representative depiction shown inFIGS. 1 through 4 . For example,figurine toy 10 could be presented in the shape of any animal, human figure, doll, robot, etc. having static facial features in the form of eyes, nose, mouth or the like. - The
receptacle 13 is a generally rectangular void, pocket, mating configuration or other construct adapted to receive and retain a smartphone-type device 20 such that the smartphone-type device 20 is temporarily yet securely retained within thereceptacle 13 with thedisplay screen 21 of the smartphone-type device 20 visible through thefront opening 15 of thereceptacle 13, as shown inFIG. 3 . In one embodiment, thehead 12 of thefigurine toy 10 is provided with compressible padding behind therear wall 14 of thereceptacle 13 such that retention pressure is applied to the smartphone-type device 20 when it is inserted into thereceptacle 13. The front opening 15 of thereceptacle 13 may be provided with an elastic perimeter for retention of the smartphone-type device 20. In another alternative embodiment, areleasable retention member 17, shown as a flap withreleasable fasteners 19 as shown inFIGS. 2 and 4 , may be provided, theretention member 17 being positioned at the top of thereceptacle 13 as shown in the drawings or to the side such that an insertion opening orslot 16 is formed, the smartphone-type device 20 being inserted or removed from thereceptacle 13 by opening theretention member 17, as shown inFIG. 2 . It is preferred that theretention member 17 be not readily discernable once the smartphone-type device 20 has been inserted so as not to detract from the visual presentation of thefigurine toy 10. Alternatively, thereceptacle 13 may comprise mechanical connections or relatively rigid frame members to temporarily retain the smartphone-type device 20 within thefigurine toy 10. For example, thereceptacle 13 may comprise a pair of releasable or elastic strap members into which the smartphone-type device is inserted, such that therear wall 14 of thereceptacle 13 is actually the external surface of thefigurine toy 10 located behind and between the strap members. - With the smartphone-
type device 20 positioned in thereceptacle 13 as shown inFIG. 3 , animated facial features 22 (e.g., eyes, nose, mouth) produced by dedicated software apps will be visible on thedisplay screen 21 through thefront opening 15 of thereceptacle 13, such that the face of thefigurine toy 10 comprises the animatedfacial features 22 displayed by the smartphone-type device 20. The apps produce motion for thefeatures 22 and sound effects, such as voice, animal sounds, snoring, laughing, etc., such that for example thefigurine toy 10 can be made to talk, laugh, sleep, look in different directions, wink, change facial expressions, etc. The software apps may be non-interactive with pre-determined motion and sound, or may be interactive such that motion and sound is responsive to physical or verbal cues provided by the user (e.g., saying certain words, pressing an arm or a leg, petting the head, tilting, rocking, spinning, shaking or moving thefigurine toy 10, etc.). - In an alternative embodiment, it is also contemplated to provide sensing or
recognition mechanisms 23 to communicate or control the smartphone-type device 20 such that the smartphone-type device 20 is aware of its status upon being inserted into thereceptacle 13 of thefigurine toy 10 or upon being separated from thefigurine toy 10, such that the differing visual displays and programs are automatically activated. For example, upon insertion into thefigurine toy 10, the smartphone-type device 20 app may automatically shift into the animated facial feature mode. Upon removal of the smartphone-type device 20 from thefigurine toy 10, the smartphone-type device 20 app shifts to a traditional story telling or game playing mode, preferably related in content to thefigurine toy 10. Any suitable sensor ormechanism 23 may be utilized to present the proper command to the smartphone-type device 20 app upon insertion or removal, such as for example physical contacts detectable by the display screen through pressure, magnetism, electronic signal or the like. - Another smartphone-type device receiving object is shown in
FIG. 5 , wherein amulti-page book 30 is shown that comprises multiple two-dimensional drawings, paintings or other representations of animals, entities, dolls, robots, etc. 100 having or expected to have facial features. Thepages 31 of thebook 30 are provided with aviewing window 32 to collectively define or expose areceptacle 33 formed in the inside back cover of thebook 30. The back of the receptacle is provided with static facial features. As shown inFIG. 5 , the smartphone-type device 20 is positioned in thereceptacle 33 with thedisplay screen 21 exposed through thefront viewing window 32. In this manner the animatedfacial features 22 appear to form the face of the twodimensional drawing 100. As before, the dedicated software applications produce motion for thefeatures 22 and sound effects, such as voice, animal sounds, snoring, laughing, etc., such that for example the drawing 100 can be made to talk, laugh, sleep, look in different directions, wink, change facial expressions, etc. The software applications may be non-interactive with pre-determined motion and sound, or may be interactive such that motion and sound is responsive to physical or verbal cues provided by the user (e.g., saying certain words, turning a page, etc.). In this embodiment, the software applications may allow thebook 30 to be read aloud by the animatedfacial features 22 as the pages are turned, for example. - The dedicated software applications in effect create a virtual facial pet, i.e., a
figurine toy 10 with animated facial features, or enhance the overall story with audio content or commands, when the smartphone-type device 20 is combined with thefigurine toy 10, with an infinite number of possible story lines, character presentations and interactive communications and actions. In addition, the dedicated software applications will also allow the smartphone-type device 20 to present animated video presentations of a virtual pet when separated from thefigurine toy 10, such as the type normally seen on a DVD player, computer screen, television or the like, such that episodic stories, detailed character information, etc. can be presented the user. - Whether interactive or non-interactive, the software applications provide for a multitude of story lines, characters, actions and the like. For example, a software application for a virtual facial pet with the smartphone-type device combined with the
figurine toy 10 may operate in the following manner: -
- The user places the smartphone-
type device 20 into thereceptacle 13 of thefigurine toy 10, then presses a facial icon to initiate the animatedfacial features 22, such as big eyes, jowl and mouth. The user “greets” the figurine character, such as a puppy character for example, and the puppy responds with happy barks. The user spins thefigurine toy 10 around and the puppy's eyes spin around and graphics of birds flying around in circles are shown. The user asks thefigurine toy 10 if he/she can “color” the puppy. The puppy responds and a color palette appears on one side of screen. Touch the pink color and the facial fur background changes from creme to pink. Touch the blue icon and the eyes change from brown to blue. The user says you need a bath, puppy. Scrub brush icon appears and the user gives the puppy a scrub. Bubbles appear on screen and water droplets. Once scrubbing is done, puppy blows several bubbles which the user can pop. User can “shake” thefigurine toy 10 back and forth and the animatedfacial features 22 shake from side to side quickly to shake off the bubbles and water. The user can “blow” puppy a kiss via the smartphone-type device 20 microphone and a large heart appears on the puppy's jowl. The user can press a silly facial icon and the puppy can go through a series of funny facial looks and sounds. The user can select a song from a music playlist. The song will play and the puppy will sing to it with appropriate graphics on thedisplay screen 21. The user can select a movie file and click into the “bubble” (what is puppy thinking of) mode and the movie file will appear on screen. The user lays the puppy on its back and says it is time to go to sleep. Puppy's eyes begin to get sleepy, yawns, and begins to sleep. Snoring sounds are heard, “zzzzz's” dance across the screen, and the “dream” bubble appears showing what the puppy is dreaming about.
- The user places the smartphone-
- Software applications that provide for a virtual pet when the smartphone-
type device 20 is not combined with thefigurine toy 10 may operate in the following manner: -
- The user touches the
display screen 21 and the software application opens. The user “names” thefigurine toy 10, e.g., a puppy, and inputs the user's name. The software responds to both inputs. The user selects one of several icons on the screen. Examples of the icons: - a. Biscuit Bone—When the puppy behaves or does a trick, the user can give the puppy a treat.
- b. Ball—the user can select ball and throw it by putting a finger on the ball icon and “flicking it”. Puppy chases after it and retrieves it.
- c. Doghouse—User can press the doghouse icon and it is time for puppy to go to sleep in doghouse.
- d. Heart—the puppy can receive kisses/love by user touching the heart icon and hearts appear on screen as puppy chases after and “eats” the hearts on the
display screen 21. Happy barks. Puppy can also receive a “kiss” by user “blowing” (i.e., making sound) into the microphone and then seeing a heart appear on screen and fly into the puppy's jowl. - e. Pet Face—user can touch the icon and another puppy can appear on screen and interact with the user's puppy. The user can “pick up” rope from bottom of
display screen 21 and both puppies can play tug of war. Tilt screen to watch the puppies slide from one side to the other.
- The user touches the
- It is understood that equivalents and substitutions for certain elements and structures set forth above may be obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art, and therefore the true scope and definition of the invention is to be as set forth in the following claims.
Claims (14)
1. A figurine toy comprising static facial features and a receptacle adapted to receive and retain a smartphone-type device having a visual display screen, said receptacle comprising a front opening positioned such that said static facial features are visible through said front opening, and further wherein said receptacle is structured such that said static facial features are obscured by said smartphone-type device and said visual display screen of said smartphone-type device is visible through said front opening when said smartphone-type device is retained within said receptacle.
2. The figurine toy of claim 1 , further comprising a retention member adapted to secure said smartphone-type device within said receptacle.
3. The figurine toy of claim 2 , wherein said retention member comprises a flap member secured by a releasable fastener.
4. The figurine toy of claim 1 , further comprising a sensor mechanism positioned within said receptacle, said sensor mechanism adapted to communicate with said smartphone-type device upon insertion or removal of said smartphone-type device from said receptacle.
5. The combination of a figurine toy and a removable smartphone-type device;
said smartphone-type device comprising a visual display screen and controlled by one or more software applications whereby animated facial features are presented on said visual display screen;
said figurine toy comprising static facial features and a receptacle adapted to receive and retain said smartphone-type device, said receptacle comprising a front opening positioned such that said static facial features are visible through said front opening when said smartphone-type device is removed from said receptacle, and further wherein said receptacle is structured such that said static facial features are obscured by said smartphone-type device and said visual display screen of said smartphone-type device is visible through said front opening when said smartphone-type device is retained within said receptacle;
whereby with said smartphone-type device positioned within said receptacle of said figurine toy, said animated facial features are presented in place of said static facial features.
6. The combination of claim 5 , wherein said one or more software applications provide a first mode presenting animated facial features on said visual display screen and a second mode presenting story telling or game playing displays on said visual display screen.
7. The combination of claim 6 , wherein said figurine toy further comprises a sensor mechanism positioned within said receptacle, said sensor mechanism adapted to communicate with said smartphone-type device upon insertion or removal of said smartphone-type device from said receptacle.
8. The combination of claim 7 , wherein upon insertion of said smartphone-type device into said receptacle, said one or more software applications automatically provides said first mode presenting animated facial features on said visual display screen, and further wherein upon removal of said smartphone-type device from said receptacle, said one or more software applications provides said second mode presenting story telling or game playing displays on said visual display screen.
9. The figurine toy of claim 5 , further comprising a retention member adapted to secure said smartphone-type device within said receptacle.
10. The figurine toy of claim 9 , wherein said retention member comprises a flap member secured by a releasable fastener.
11. The combination of a figurine toy and a removable smartphone-type device;
said smartphone-type device comprising a visual display screen and controlled by one or more software applications whereby animated facial features are presented on said visual display screen, wherein said smartphone-type device is chosen from the group of smartphone-type devices consisting of portable computer tablets, smartphones, gaming devices and music players, and wherein said one or more software applications provide a first mode presenting animated facial features on said visual display screen and a second mode presenting story telling or game playing displays on said visual display screen.;
said figurine toy comprising static facial features and a receptacle adapted to receive and retain said smartphone-type device, said receptacle comprising a front opening positioned such that said static facial features are visible through said front opening when said smartphone-type device is removed from said receptacle, and further wherein said receptacle is structured such that said static facial features are obscured by said smartphone-type device and said visual display screen of said smartphone-type device is visible through said front opening when said smartphone-type device is retained within said receptacle;
whereby with said smartphone-type device positioned within said receptacle of said figurine toy, said animated facial features are presented in place of said static facial features.
12. The combination of claim 11 , wherein said figurine toy further comprises a sensor mechanism positioned within said receptacle, said sensor mechanism adapted to communicate with said smartphone-type device upon insertion or removal of said smartphone-type device from said receptacle;
wherein upon insertion of said smartphone-type device into said receptacle, said one or more software applications automatically provides said first mode presenting animated facial features on said visual display screen, and further wherein upon removal of said smartphone-type device from said receptacle, said one or more software applications provides said second mode presenting story telling or game playing displays on said visual display screen.
13. The figurine toy of claim 12 , further comprising a retention member adapted to secure said smartphone-type device within said receptacle.
14. The figurine toy of claim 13 , wherein said retention member comprises a flap member secured by a releasable fastener.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/647,801 US20130095725A1 (en) | 2011-10-06 | 2012-10-09 | Figurine toy in combination with a portable, removable wireless computer device having a visual display screen |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201161543963P | 2011-10-06 | 2011-10-06 | |
US13/647,801 US20130095725A1 (en) | 2011-10-06 | 2012-10-09 | Figurine toy in combination with a portable, removable wireless computer device having a visual display screen |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20130095725A1 true US20130095725A1 (en) | 2013-04-18 |
Family
ID=48086302
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/647,801 Abandoned US20130095725A1 (en) | 2011-10-06 | 2012-10-09 | Figurine toy in combination with a portable, removable wireless computer device having a visual display screen |
Country Status (1)
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US (1) | US20130095725A1 (en) |
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US20130344770A1 (en) * | 2011-12-07 | 2013-12-26 | Ubooly Inc. | Interactive toy |
US20140256213A1 (en) * | 2013-03-07 | 2014-09-11 | Steve Copeland | Soft body toy with pressure sensing |
US20140273716A1 (en) * | 2013-03-14 | 2014-09-18 | Robert Annis | Perceived Opacity Smart Toy |
US20150133022A1 (en) * | 2011-11-28 | 2015-05-14 | Carrie Ushiba | Peripheral apparatus for storing and positioning a portable electronic device |
GB2520986A (en) * | 2013-12-04 | 2015-06-10 | Stephen John Carpenter | Toy with image display capability |
US20150174499A1 (en) * | 2013-12-23 | 2015-06-25 | Olive & Mint LLC | Interactive learning system |
US20150195397A1 (en) * | 2014-01-07 | 2015-07-09 | Boogli Inc. | System and method for augmenting a second item with a presentation of features at a first item |
US20160059609A1 (en) * | 2014-08-29 | 2016-03-03 | Google, Inc. | Presenting Media Content to Visually Enhance a Pop-up Book |
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US20180154513A1 (en) * | 2016-05-19 | 2018-06-07 | Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd. | Robot |
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US20190118104A1 (en) * | 2017-10-20 | 2019-04-25 | Thinker-Tinker, Inc. | Interactive plush character system |
US10376800B1 (en) | 2017-05-12 | 2019-08-13 | Hasbro, Inc. | Apparatus with support mechanism disposing alternate facing gaming display and virtual reality viewing |
US20190327353A1 (en) * | 2017-03-22 | 2019-10-24 | Danilo D'Amato | A smartphone with wallet and keychain functions |
US20190344149A1 (en) * | 2016-08-26 | 2019-11-14 | Alfio Bucceri | Training apparatus and method for teaching and practicing skills for sports |
USD898610S1 (en) * | 2018-12-22 | 2020-10-13 | Leah Benedicte Laahne | Figurine |
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US20150133022A1 (en) * | 2011-11-28 | 2015-05-14 | Carrie Ushiba | Peripheral apparatus for storing and positioning a portable electronic device |
US20130344770A1 (en) * | 2011-12-07 | 2013-12-26 | Ubooly Inc. | Interactive toy |
US20140256213A1 (en) * | 2013-03-07 | 2014-09-11 | Steve Copeland | Soft body toy with pressure sensing |
US20140273716A1 (en) * | 2013-03-14 | 2014-09-18 | Robert Annis | Perceived Opacity Smart Toy |
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US20180056518A1 (en) * | 2016-04-27 | 2018-03-01 | Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd. | Spherical robot having a driving mechanism for indicating amount of stored electric power |
US20180154513A1 (en) * | 2016-05-19 | 2018-06-07 | Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd. | Robot |
US20190344149A1 (en) * | 2016-08-26 | 2019-11-14 | Alfio Bucceri | Training apparatus and method for teaching and practicing skills for sports |
US10758810B2 (en) * | 2016-08-26 | 2020-09-01 | Alfio Bucceri | Training apparatus and method for teaching and practicing skills for sports |
US20190327353A1 (en) * | 2017-03-22 | 2019-10-24 | Danilo D'Amato | A smartphone with wallet and keychain functions |
US10715646B2 (en) * | 2017-03-22 | 2020-07-14 | Danilo D'Amato | Smartphone with wallet and keychain functions |
US10376800B1 (en) | 2017-05-12 | 2019-08-13 | Hasbro, Inc. | Apparatus with support mechanism disposing alternate facing gaming display and virtual reality viewing |
US20190118104A1 (en) * | 2017-10-20 | 2019-04-25 | Thinker-Tinker, Inc. | Interactive plush character system |
US10792578B2 (en) * | 2017-10-20 | 2020-10-06 | Thinker-Tinker, Inc. | Interactive plush character system |
USD846663S1 (en) * | 2018-01-03 | 2019-04-23 | Woobo Inc. | Robot |
USD898610S1 (en) * | 2018-12-22 | 2020-10-13 | Leah Benedicte Laahne | Figurine |
WO2020235153A1 (en) * | 2019-05-17 | 2020-11-26 | 株式会社東海理化電機製作所 | Control device and presentation system |
JP2020188824A (en) * | 2019-05-17 | 2020-11-26 | 株式会社東海理化電機製作所 | Control apparatus and presentation system |
US11213762B1 (en) * | 2019-06-25 | 2022-01-04 | Sylvia Towns | Customizable toy figure including a book |
US11123646B1 (en) | 2020-06-19 | 2021-09-21 | Max Innovations, Inc. | Electronic screen holder device and method |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |