U.S. patent application number 10/963388 was filed with the patent office on 2005-07-07 for toy for producing fog filled bubbles.
Invention is credited to LaFata, John E., LaFata, Richard J..
Application Number | 20050148276 10/963388 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46303064 |
Filed Date | 2005-07-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050148276 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LaFata, John E. ; et
al. |
July 7, 2005 |
Toy for producing fog filled bubbles
Abstract
A toy for producing bubbles including a nozzle connected to the
housing. The nozzle is adapted to receive and at least temporarily
hold a bubble solution. The toy also includes a vapor generator
mounted in the housing, where the vapor generator is positioned
adjacent to the nozzle and an air mover mounted in the housing,
where the air mover is positioned adjacent to the vapor generator.
The toy further includes at least one activator movably connected
to the housing. The activator being in communication with the vapor
generator and the air mover. Upon the activation of the activator
by a user, the activator causes the vapor generator to generate
vapor and causes the air mover to move an amount of air through the
vapor generator and the bubble solution on the nozzle to produce at
least one vapor-filled bubble.
Inventors: |
LaFata, John E.; (Ventura,
CA) ; LaFata, Richard J.; (Ventura, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Bell, Boyd & Lloyd LLC
P.O. Box 1135
Chicago
IL
60690-1135
US
|
Family ID: |
46303064 |
Appl. No.: |
10/963388 |
Filed: |
October 12, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10963388 |
Oct 12, 2004 |
|
|
|
10810329 |
Mar 25, 2004 |
|
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|
60457111 |
Mar 25, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
446/18 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63H 31/08 20130101;
A63H 33/26 20130101; A63H 33/28 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
446/018 |
International
Class: |
A63H 033/28; F25B
015/00 |
Claims
The invention is claimed as follows:
1. A toy for producing bubbles comprising: a housing; a nozzle
connected to said housing, said nozzle adapted to receive and at
least temporarily hold a bubble solution; a vapor generator mounted
in said housing, said vapor generator positioned adjacent to said
nozzle; an air mover mounted in said housing, said air mover
positioned adjacent to said vapor generator; and at least one
activator movably connected to said housing, said activator in
communication with the vapor generator and the air mover, wherein
upon the activation of the activator, the activator causes said
vapor generator to generate vapor and causes the air mover to move
an amount of air through the vapor generator and the bubble
solution on the nozzle to produce at least one vapor-filled
bubble.
2. The toy of claim 1, wherein the air mover includes: a housing;
an impeller rotatably mounted in said housing; and a gear assembly
mounted in said housing, said gear assembly coupled to said
impeller and said activator, wherein upon the activation of the
activator, the gear assembly causes the impeller to rotate and move
air through the vapor generator and the bubble solution on the
nozzle.
3. The toy of claim 2, wherein the gear assembly includes at least
one gear coupled to said impeller and said activator.
4. The toy of claim 1, wherein the vapor generator includes a
heater.
5. The toy of claim 4, which includes a container in communication
with said vapor generator, said container adapted to receive a
solution and transfer at least a portion of said solution to said
vapor generator upon the activation of the activator, wherein the
portion of the solution contacts the heater to generate the
vapor.
6. The toy of claim 1, wherein the air mover includes a
mechanically operated fan.
7. The toy of claim 1, wherein the air mover includes a battery
operated fan.
8. The toy of claim 1, wherein the air mover includes an
electrically operated fan.
9. The toy of claim 1, wherein the activator includes a
trigger.
10. The toy of claim 1, wherein the bubble solution includes at
least one color to produce at least one bubble including said at
least one color.
11. The toy of claim 1, wherein the vapor includes at least one
color.
12. A device for producing bubbles, comprising: means for producing
smoke; means for producing a first bubble, said first bubble
adapted to substantially surround at least a portion of said smoke;
means for producing a second bubble, said second bubble adapted to
surround said first bubble.
13. The device of claim 12, which includes a third bubble adapted
to substantially surround at least a portion of said smoke.
14. The device of claim 13, wherein said second bubble is adapted
to surround said third bubble.
15. The device of claim 12, wherein said means for producing said
first bubble includes a fan.
16. The device of claim 12, wherein said means for producing said
smoke includes a liquid smoke solution adapted to turn into a gas
when heated.
17. The device of claim 16, which includes a tank to hold said
liquid smoke solution.
18. The device of claim 12, wherein said means for producing said
second bubble includes an electric powered fan.
19. A toy for producing bubbles comprising: a housing; a first
nozzle connected to said housing, said first nozzle adapted to
receive and at least temporarily hold a bubble solution; a second
nozzle positioned adjacent to said first nozzle, said second nozzle
adapted to receive and at least temporarily hold said bubble
solution; a vapor generator mounted in said housing; an air mover
mounted in said housing; a first communication line, wherein one
end of said first communication line is connected to said air
mover, and a second opposite end of said first communication line
is connected to said vapor generator, said second end directing air
through said vapor generator and the bubble solution on the first
nozzle; a second communication line, wherein one end of said second
communication line is connected to said air mover, said second end
is positioned adjacent to said second nozzle; an activator movably
connected to said housing, said activator in communication with the
vapor generator and the air mover, wherein upon the activation of
the activator, the activator causes the air mover to direct air
through second communication line and into the bubble solution on
the second nozzle to produce a first bubble and causes said air
mover to direct air through the first communication line and the
vapor generator to direct vapor generated by the vapor generator
into the bubble solution on said second nozzle to produce a
vapor-filled second bubble, wherein said first bubble substantially
encloses at least a portion of said second bubble.
20. The toy of claim 19, wherein said vapor generator includes a
fog generator.
21. The toy of claim 19, wherein said vapor generator includes a
smoke generator.
22. The toy of claim 19, wherein the air mover includes: a housing;
an impeller rotatably mounted in said housing; and a gear assembly
mounted in said housing, said gear assembly coupled to said
impeller and said activator, wherein upon the activation of the
activator, the gear assembly causes the impeller to rotate and move
air through the vapor generator and the bubble solution on the
nozzle.
23. The toy of claim 22, wherein the gear assembly includes at
least one gear coupled to said impeller and said activator.
24. The toy of claim 19, wherein the vapor generator includes a
heater.
25. The toy of claim 24, which includes a container in
communication with said vapor generator, said container adapted to
receive a solution and transfer at least a portion of said solution
to said vapor generator upon the activation of the activator,
wherein the portion of the solution contacts the heater to generate
the vapor.
26. The toy of claim 19, wherein the air mover includes a battery
operated fan.
27. The toy of claim 19, wherein the air mover includes an
electrically operated fan.
28. The toy of claim 19, wherein the activator includes a
trigger.
29. The toy of claim 19, wherein the bubble solution includes at
least one color to produce at least one bubble including said at
least one color.
30. The toy of claim 19, wherein the vapor includes at least one
color.
31. A method of producing bubbles comprising: producing a visible
gas; forming a first bubble such that at least a portion of said
visible gas is contained within said first bubble; and forming a
second bubble such that said first bubble is contained within said
second bubble.
32. The method of claim 31, wherein said visible gas includes at
least one color.
33. The method of claim 31, which includes forming a third bubble
such that at least a portion of said visible gas is contained
within said third bubble.
34. The method of claim 33, wherein said third bubble is contained
within said second bubble.
35. The method of claim 31, wherein said first and second bubbles
are substantially transparent.
36. The method of claim 31, forming at least one of said first
bubble and said second bubble includes forming at least one of said
first bubble and said second bubble including at least one color.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims
priority to and the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/810,329, filed Mar. 25, 2004, the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein, and which is a continuation of and claims
priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application
Ser. No. 60/457,111, filed Mar. 25, 2003.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Toys provide excitement and enjoyment for children. Toys
come in several different sizes, shapes, configurations and perform
many different functions.
[0003] A variety of devices including a variety of toys have been
designed for producing one or more bubbles, either simultaneously
or in succession. Examples range from simple mechanical rings which
are dipped into a soapy liquid, then passed through the air to
generate a succession of bubbles, to complicated automatic
bubble-making devices for automatically producing hundreds of
bubbles.
[0004] Additionally, various devices have been developed which
include a smoke-generating device. Examples include toy trains and
toy boats wherein a small amount of smoke is generated within a
smoke stack of the toy for producing the illusion of
self-propulsion. The following paragraphs provide other examples of
such devices.
[0005] U.S. Pat. No. 5,205,771 is directed to a device that pumps
gas through a conduit to inflate film into a bubble. A
smoke-generator is also connected to the conduit and fills the
conduit with smoke while the film is being inflated, so that the
smoke fills the resulting bubble or balloon.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 2,912,790 is directed to a bubble producing
toy that blows bubbles in such a manner so that when a bubble
bursts, smoke is given off. This is accomplished using a heating
element to heat up a conventional smoke solution, thereby
vaporizing the smoke solution. Air is then blown through the toy
and picks up the smoke, which is then blown across a soap film on a
ring, forming the bubbles with the smoke entrained therein.
[0007] Moreover, attempts have been made to create bubbles within a
bubble as evidenced by U.S. Pat. No. 2,527,935 which is directed to
a bubble blowing device including a wand having a pair of spaced
loops of different diameter located in spaced parallel planes. The
device must be generally vertically immersed into a reservoir of
bubble blowing solution so that a meniscus of solution is formed
across each of the rings. When the device is properly waved through
the air, the bubble created from the smaller of the two loops will
be positioned interiorly of the bubble produced from the larger
loop.
[0008] Additionally, U.S. Pat. No. 4,180,938 is directed to a
bubble blowing wand having spaced loops disposed in a common plane.
The loops are provided with serrations such that a greater quantity
of bubble blowing fluid will be retained on the loops therefore
rendering the device more capable of creating the desired bubbles
within a bubble. A spill proof container having an elastomeric top
is provided with the wand and includes a slit therein for reception
of the wand. The slitted spill roof container is provided to
minimize spillage of bubble blowing solution and its construction
necessitates the use of a wand which is relatively thin in
cross-section. The construction of the wand therefore precludes use
of a wand where the loops or rings are disposed in spaced planes as
described above.
[0009] None of the conventional devices produce variable sized
bubbles that can be dispensed at a various rates. Additionally,
none of the conventional devices have chambers or reservoirs for
the smoke solution that can be inverted without spilling the
solution. Also, toys have a limited number of functions or uses and
therefore tend to quickly lose childrens' interest.
[0010] Accordingly, there is need for toys with multiple functions
and different uses to enhance childrens' excitement, enjoyment and
interest with the toys.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention is directed to a bubble generator or
bubble device and more specifically to a toy for producing vapor
filled bubbles.
[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the bubble
generator or bubble toy includes a housing and a nozzle connected
to the housing, where the nozzle is adapted to receive and at least
temporarily hold a bubble solution. The bubble solution may be any
suitable solution such as a soap and water mixture or any other
suitable bubble producing solution or mixture. The toy also
includes a vapor generator mounted in the housing, where the vapor
generator is positioned adjacent to the nozzle and an air mover
mounted in the housing, where the air mover is positioned adjacent
to the vapor generator. The toy also includes at least one
activator movably connected to the housing, where the activator is
in communication with the vapor generator and the air mover. In
operation, upon the activation of the activator, the activator
causes the vapor generator to generate vapor and causes the air
mover to move an amount of air through the vapor generator and the
bubble solution on the nozzle to produce at least one vapor-filled
bubble.
[0013] In an embodiment, the air mover includes a housing, an
impeller rotatably mounted in the housing, and a gear assembly
mounted in the housing. The gear assembly being coupled to the
impeller and the activator, where upon the activation of the
activator, the gear assembly causes the impeller to rotate and move
air through the vapor generator and the bubble solution on the
nozzle.
[0014] In an embodiment, the gear assembly includes at least one
gear coupled to the impeller and the activator.
[0015] In an embodiment, the vapor generator includes a heater.
[0016] In another embodiment, the toy includes a container in
communication with the vapor generator. The container being adapted
to receive a solution such as a vapor solution, fog solution or
smoke solution, and transfer at least a portion of the solution to
the vapor generator upon the activation of the activator, where the
portion of the solution contacts the heater to generate the
vapor.
[0017] In an embodiment, the air mover includes a mechanically
operated fan. In another embodiment, the air mover includes a
battery operated fan. In another embodiment, the air mover includes
an electrically operated fan.
[0018] In an embodiment, the activator includes a trigger.
[0019] In an embodiment, the bubble solution includes at least one
color to produce at least one bubble including the at least one
color.
[0020] In an embodiment, the vapor includes at least one color.
[0021] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a
device for producing bubbles including means for producing smoke,
means for producing a first bubble, where the first bubble is
adapted to substantially surround at least a portion of the smoke,
and means for producing a second bubble, where the second bubble
adapted to surround the first bubble.
[0022] In an embodiment, the device includes a third bubble adapted
to substantially surround at least a portion of the smoke.
[0023] In another embodiment, the second bubble is adapted to
surround the third bubble.
[0024] In an embodiment, the means for producing the first bubble
includes a fan.
[0025] In another embodiment, the means for producing the smoke
includes a liquid smoke solution adapted to turn into a gas when
heated.
[0026] In another embodiment, the device includes a tank to hold
the liquid smoke solution.
[0027] In an embodiment, the means for producing the second bubble
includes an electric powered fan.
[0028] In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a
toy for producing bubbles including a housing, a first nozzle
connected to the housing, and a second nozzle connected to the
housing. The first nozzle is adapted to receive and at least
temporarily hold a bubble solution. The second nozzle is positioned
adjacent to the first nozzle, and is adapted to receive and at
least temporarily hold the bubble solution. The toy also includes a
vapor generator mounted in the housing, an air mover mounted in the
housing and a first communication line, where one end of the first
communication line is connected to the air mover, and a second
opposite end of the first communication line is connected to the
vapor generator. The second end of the first communication line
directs air through the vapor generator and the bubble solution on
the first nozzle. The toy includes a second communication line,
where one end of the second communication line is connected to the
air mover and the second end is positioned adjacent to the second
nozzle. The toy further includes an activator movably connected to
the housing, where the activator is, in communication with the
vapor generator and the air mover. In operation, upon the
activation of the activator, the activator causes the air mover to
direct air through second communication line and into the bubble
solution on the second nozzle to produce a first bubble and causes
the air mover to direct air through the first communication line
and the vapor generator to direct vapor generated by the vapor
generator into the bubble solution on the second nozzle to produce
a vapor-filled second bubble, wherein the first bubble
substantially encloses at least a portion of the second bubble.
[0029] In an embodiment, the vapor generator includes a fog
generator.
[0030] In an embodiment, the vapor generator includes a smoke
generator.
[0031] In an embodiment, the air mover includes a housing, an
impeller rotatably mounted in the housing; and a gear assembly
mounted in the housing. In this embodiment, the gear assembly is
coupled to the impeller and the activator, where upon the
activation of the activator, the gear assembly causes the impeller
to rotate and move air through the vapor generator and the bubble
solution on the nozzle.
[0032] In an embodiment, the gear assembly includes at least one
gear coupled to the impeller and the activator.
[0033] In an embodiment, the vapor generator includes a heater.
[0034] In another embodiment, the toy includes a container in
communication with the vapor generator, where the container is
adapted to receive a solution and transfer at least a portion of
the solution to the vapor generator upon the activation of the
activator, where the portion of the solution contacts the heater to
generate the vapor.
[0035] In an embodiment, the air mover includes a battery operated
fan.
[0036] In an embodiment, the air mover includes an electrically
operated fan.
[0037] In an embodiment, the activator includes a trigger.
[0038] In an embodiment, the bubble solution includes at least one
color to produce at least one bubble including the at least one
color.
[0039] In an embodiment, the vapor includes at least one color.
[0040] In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a
method of producing bubbles including producing a visible gas,
forming a first bubble such that at least a portion of the visible
gas is contained within the first bubble, and forming a second
bubble such that the first bubble is contained within the second
bubble.
[0041] In an embodiment, the visible gas includes at least one
color.
[0042] In an embodiment, the method includes forming a third bubble
such that at least a portion of the visible gas is contained within
the third bubble.
[0043] In another embodiment, the third bubble is contained within
the second bubble.
[0044] In an embodiment, the first and second bubbles are
substantially transparent.
[0045] In another embodiment, the method includes forming at least
one of the first bubble and the second bubble includes forming at
least one of the first bubble and the second bubble including at
least one color.
[0046] It is an object of the present invention to provide a toy
for producing various sized bubbles.
[0047] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
toy for producing a stream of relatively small vapor filled bubbles
or a few relatively large vapor filled bubbles.
[0048] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
toy for producing smoke that can be encased within a bubble or
emitted from the toy in any other manner desired.
[0049] It is yet a further object of the present invention to
provide a toy for producing vapor or smoke filled bubbles having a
system that does not allow significant spillage of a smoke
solution, even when the toy is completely inverted.
[0050] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
device for producing at least one vapor-filled bubble.
[0051] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
device for producing at least one vapor-filled bubble including a
mechanically operated fan assembly.
[0052] The objects of the present invention are obtained by a smoke
producing toy, including a compressible chamber adapted to receive
a liquid and having an opening therein, a heating element at least
partially received in the opening, a member adjacent to the
compressible chamber, and an activating device coupled to the
member. Whereby when the toy is activated using the activating
device, the member moves and compresses the chamber, thereby
forcing the liquid through the opening and past the heating
element, which in turn heats the liquid and turns the liquid to
vapor.
[0053] The objects of the present invention are further obtained by
a toy for producing bubbles, including a reservoir adapted to hold
a fluid and having an opening therein. A heating element is
adjacent the opening and is adapted to heat the fluid and thereby
turn the fluid into a vapor. A bubble forming mechanism is adapted
to be substantially covered by a film, and a fan is adapted to move
the vapor though the bubble forming mechanism at a first velocity
or a second velocity.
[0054] Additional features and advantages of the present invention
are described in, and will be apparent from, the following Detailed
Description of the Invention and the figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0055] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a toy bubble gun in
accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present
invention;
[0056] FIG. 2 is an elevational side view of the toy bubble gun of
FIG. 1;
[0057] FIG. 3 is an elevational side view of the toy bubble gun of
FIG. 2, with a portion of the housing cover removed;
[0058] FIG. 4 is an elevational side view of the heating element
used in the toy bubble gun of FIG. 3;
[0059] FIG. 5 is an elevational front view of the toy bubble gun of
FIG. 1 with the bubble ring positioned down and in contact with the
bubble film;
[0060] FIG. 6 is an elevational front view of the toy bubble gun of
FIG. 5 with the bubble ring positioned for producing bubbles;
[0061] FIG. 7 is bottom rear perspective view of the toy bubble gun
of FIG. 1;
[0062] FIG. 8 is a bottom side perspective view of the toy bubble
gun of FIG. 1; and
[0063] FIG. 9 is a schematic of a second embodiment showing the
operation of the vapor generating system.
[0064] FIG. 10 is a side perspective view of another embodiment of
the present invention.
[0065] FIG. 11 is a side perspective view illustrating one side of
the housing of the bubble device of FIG. 10.
[0066] FIG. 12 is an enlarged perspective view of a top portion of
the bubble device illustrated in FIG. 11.
[0067] FIG. 13 is an enlarged perspective view of another portion
of the bubble device illustrated in FIG. 11.
[0068] FIG. 14 is an enlarged perspective view of a lower portion
of the bubble device illustrated in FIG. 11.
[0069] FIG. 15 is a top perspective view of the bubble device of
the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 10.
[0070] FIG. 16 is a rear-perspective view of the bubble device of
the embodiment of FIG. 10.
[0071] FIGS. 17A to 17F are different schematic views illustrating
the housing assembly of the bubble device of FIG. 10.
[0072] FIG. 18 is a side perspective view of the storage container,
the heater assembly, the pump, the second activator, the switch and
the light of the bubble device of the bubble device illustrated in
FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0073] FIG. 19A is an enlarged perspective view of one embodiment
of the storage container of the bubble device illustrated in FIGS.
10 and 11.
[0074] FIGS. 19B to 19E are different schematic views of different
parts of the storage container illustrated in FIG. 19A.
[0075] FIG. 20A is an enlarged perspective view of one embodiment
of the pump of the bubble device illustrated in FIG. 10.
[0076] FIG. 20B is a schematic view of one embodiment of the bulb
included in the pump illustrated in FIG. 20A.
[0077] FIGS. 21A and 21B are schematic views of one embodiment of
the heater housing included in the heater assembly illustrated in
FIG. 11.
[0078] FIGS. 21C to 21F are different perspective views of the
heater assembly of the bubble device illustrated in FIGS. 10 and
11.
[0079] FIGS. 21G and 21H are different schematic views of the
connectors of the heater assembly illustrated in FIGS. 21A to
21F.
[0080] FIGS. 22A to 22E are perspective views of different
components of the fan assembly of the bubble device illustrated in
FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0081] FIG. 22F are different schematic views of the top fan
support of the fan assembly illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0082] FIG. 22G are different schematic views of the bottom fan
support of the fan assembly illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0083] FIG. 22H are different schematic views of the impeller of
the fan assembly illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0084] FIG. 22I are different schematic views of the fan cover of
the fan assembly illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0085] FIG. 22J are different schematic views of one of the gears
of the fan assembly illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0086] FIG. 22K are different schematic views of the sun gear of
the fan assembly illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0087] FIG. 23 are different schematic views of one section of the
first activator of the embodiment of the bubble device illustrated
in FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11.
[0088] FIG. 24 are different schematic views of one embodiment of a
solution tray of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0089] FIGS. 1-3 illustrate a toy bubble gun 10 according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention. The gun 10
preferably has a plastic housing 12 that is formed of a first half
or portion 14 and a second half or portion 16. The two halves 14
and 16 preferably encase at least a portion of the bubble and smoke
or vapor making mechanisms and are coupled together using screws.
The gun 10 includes a base 18, a handle 20 and a barrel section 22.
The barrel section 22 has a main portion 24 and a pivotal portion
26. However, it is noted that the gun can have any shape or
configuration desirable and can be formed from any suitable
material.
[0090] As shown in FIGS. 3, 7 and 8, the base portion has a
substantially flat surface 28, with a door 30 that allows access to
battery compartment 32. Substantially flat surface 28 is relatively
wide, with respect to the handle 20 and long enough to provide a
stable base for the gun 10. In other words, the base allows the gun
10 to be placed on a surface (not shown), such as a table or the
ground, in an upright position without falling over. Extending
through the housing 12 at the rear portion 38 of the base portion
is a switch 35. Switch 35 can be any type of switch desired. For
example, as shown in the preferred embodiment, switch 35 is a slide
switch; however the switch 35 can be any suitable switch, such as a
button or toggle or any other suitable switch. Additionally, switch
35 can be located on any portion of the base or on any other area
of toy gun 10 and do not necessarily need to be positioned on the
base.
[0091] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, handle 20 is sized and configured
to be held in the palm of one hand and grip portion 34 can be
textured for improved feel, if desired. Beginning at end 36, handle
20 extends from the rear portion 38 of the base 18 at preferably an
angle slightly less than perpendicular. End 40 of handle 20 is
coupled to the barrel section 22. However, handle 20 can be any
configuration desired and does not necessarily need to extend from
the base at an acute angle.
[0092] Main portion 24 is preferably generally elliptical in shape
and has a trigger or activating device 42 extending therefrom. The
trigger or lever arm 42 is generally slidable from a first position
44 (FIG. 1) to a second position 46 (FIG. 2). As shown in FIG. 1,
main portion 24 is coupled to pivoting portion 26. Pivoting portion
26 is generally circular or spherical in shape and has bubble
mechanism 48 coupled thereto. However, pivoting portion 26 and main
portion 24 can be any configuration or shape desired.
[0093] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, pivoting portion 26 has a slot or
opening 50 that extends along the portion 52 of pivoting portion
that faces away from the main portion 24 to a portion 54 that faces
down in the direction toward the base. Bubble mechanism 48 is
positioned within slot 50 and is adapted to pivot from a first
position 56 adjacent portion 52 to a second position 58 adjacent
portion 54.
[0094] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, bubble mechanism 48 preferably
has three struts 60a, 60b and 60c extending through slot 50 to
bubble forming mechanism 62. Struts 60a-c and bubble forming
mechanism are preferably formed from plastic, but can be any
suitable material. Bubble forming mechanism 62 is preferably
substantially ring-shaped having opening 64 therein (FIG. 6).
Opening 64 is defined by an inner surface 66 having a first or
inner diameter 68. Mechanism 62 also has an outer surface 70 with a
second or outer diameter 72. Second diameter 72 is preferably
greater than first diameter 68. It is noted that the bubble forming
mechanism can be any shape or configuration suitable.
[0095] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, main portion 24 has a basin or
receptacle 74 hingedly connected thereto by support arm 76. Support
device 76 is preferably a plastic arm that extends from the main
portion to the receptacle 74. Receptacle 74 is preferably a plastic
substantially cylindrical or circular cup having an inner wall 78
and an outer wall 80 and a bottom 82. If desired receptacle 74 can
have a lid (not shown) that can be removably attached to at least
one of walls 78 and 80. The lid would significantly reduce
inadvertent spilling of any fluid therein, while allowing the
bubble producing mechanism 62 access to the fluid held within
receptacle 74. Support device 76 and receptacle 74 are preferably
sized and configured to position the receptacle underneath of
pivoting portion 22. Support device 76 is adapted to move from a
first position 84 (FIG. 5), wherein the bubble producing mechanism
62 is positioned within the receptacle 74 to a second position 86
(FIG. 6), where the bubble producing mechanism 62 is positioned
away from the receptacle 74. Support device 76 can be protected by
a plastic cover 85, as shown in FIG. 2; however cover 85 is not
necessary.
[0096] As shown in FIG. 3, battery pack or compartment 32 is
generally rectangular and is positioned within the base portion 18.
Electrical wires 88 extend from battery pack 32 to electrical
switch 35.
[0097] Handle 20 houses reservoir tank or chamber 90, lever arm 92
and heating element 94. Reservoir tank or receptacle 90 is
preferably formed of a flexible or compressible plastic or rubber
material and is generally elliptical in shape. However, reservoir
90 can be formed of any suitable material and have any
configuration desired. Reservoir 90 is preferably positioned within
handle 20 such that end 94 of lever arm 92 is adjacent the area of
the reservoir having the largest diameter. This allows nozzle 96 to
extend through the housing, allowing access into reservoir 90.
Nozzle 96 preferably defines a channel or opening 97 into reservoir
90 for filling reservoir 90 with a suitable fluid. Nozzle 96
preferably has a cap or stopper 98 plugging the opening 97, thereby
effectively closing or sealing the reservoir from the external
atmosphere. It is noted that the reservoir 90 does not necessarily
need to be positioned in the handle 20 as specifically described
and can be positioned in any suitable manner. For example, the
reservoir 90 does not necessarily need to be positioned with the
lever arm 92 at the portion with the largest diameter, and can be
positioned relative to the lever arm in any suitable manner.
[0098] At end 100 of reservoir 90, heating member or element 94
extends into reservoir 90 through an opening 102. As shown in FIGS.
3 and 4, heating element 94 is formed from a metal outer tube 104
substantially radially enclosing a glass element 106. Metal tube
104 is preferably a substantially cylindrical hollow tube with a
length and an inner diameter and an outer diameter. Glass element
106 preferably is substantially cylindrical and encases a coiled
metal resistance wire 108. The resistance wire is coiled around a
middle portion 110 that is encased by a top portion 112 and a
bottom portion 114. The heating element has a first mounting member
116 and a second mounting member 118 that are adapted to position
the heating element in the reservoir 90.
[0099] The glass element has an outer diameter that is less than
the inner diameter of tube 104. More specifically, an outer
diameter of the glass element is configured such that a space
exists between at least a portion of the glass element outer
surface and the metal tube inner surface. Additionally the glass
element has a length that is greater that the metal tube.
[0100] Heating element 94 has a first electrical wire 120 and a
second electrical wire 122 coupled thereto. The first electrical
wire 120 is coupled to the end distal to the opening 102, and the
second wire 122 is coupled to the end proximal or adjacent the
opening 102. Wire 120 and 122 are electrically coupled to a power
source, preferably the battery compartment 32; however, the wires
120 and 122 can be electrically coupled to any power source
desired.
[0101] Positioned behind disk 138 is a variable fan (not shown).
The fan is electrically coupled to the battery compartment 32, or
any other electrical source, and can vary its rotational velocity.
The fan is adapted to blow air, smoke, fog, vapor or any
combination thereof or any other fluid though tube 139, into tube
141 and past bubble forming mechanism 62. By varying the speed or
velocity of the fan, the velocity of any fluid that passes through
the fan can be varied, and thus the size of the bubbles and rate at
which bubbles can be produced can be varied. The fan can be coupled
to any type of device, such as a trigger or switch that would allow
the user to vary the speed of the fan motor.
[0102] As shown in FIGS. 1-3, there are a series of levers,
linkages and rotatable discs that function together to operate gun
10. Preferably, trigger or lever arm 42 extends from an internal
portion of the gun 10 through opening or slot 124 in the housing
12. If desired a particle trapping device, such as a series of
bristles (not shown) can be positioned within opening 124. Such
bristles would prevent smoke or vapor from escaping from the gun
10, and also trap dirt and dust, while allowing air to enter the
internal portion of the housing and simultaneously allowing lever
arm 42 to move from first position 44 to second position 46.
[0103] Lever arm 42 rotates around pivot point 126. End 128 of
lever arm 42 abuts end 130 of linkage 132. Linkage 132 is adapted
to pivot around pivot point 136. Linkage 134 is then connected to
disk 138 and end 140. Disk 138 is adapted to rotate about center
point 142. Approximately 180 degrees from end 140, linkage 144 is
coupled to disk 138 at end 146. Linkage 144 is coupled to disk 148
at end 150, and disk 148 is adapted to rotate about center point
152. Bubble mechanism 48 is then connected to disk 148.
[0104] Additionally, disk 138 has a protrusion or an abutment 154
extending therefrom. Abutment 154 is adapted to contact lever arm
156, which in turn causes cam 158 to rotate about pivot point 160.
Pivoting cam 158 rotates arm 162, which contacts arm 164, which is
connected to linkage system 165. Linkage system is coupled to
receptacle 74 and is adapted to move the receptacle toward and away
from bubble mechanism 48.
[0105] Furthermore, cam 158 has lever arm 166 extending therefrom,
which is adapted to contact lever arm 168. Lever arm 168 is adapted
to pivot about pivot point 170, thereby moving lever arm 92 and end
94. As described above, end 94 is preferably adjacent or abutting
reservoir 90.
[0106] LED 174 is visible though the main portion of housing 12 and
is electrically connected to battery compartment 32. LED 174 is
preferably lit when the switch 35 is in the on position.
[0107] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-8, toy bubble gun ten operates in
the following manner. Stopper 98 for reservoir 90 is removed
allowing access to reservoir 90. A fluid 91 capable of producing
smoke or vapor when heated is preferably inserted or poured into
reservoir 90. For example, FOG JUICE or any other suitable product
could be used, which can vary in color and/or scent (e.g., the
smoke can appear as any color in the visible spectrum). The stopper
98 is then replaced to form a closed system.
[0108] The battery door 30 is removed to expose the inside portion
of battery compartment 32. Preferably batteries are positioned
therein; however, the power source for the gun 10 can be any
suitable power supply. Switch 35 is then moved into the on
position, at which time the heating element heats up. The powering
up of the toy also includes starting of the fan.
[0109] It is noted that to preserve energy and/or battery life, the
gun can have an energy on demand system. This system can be
electrical (i.e., controlled by a microprocessor or other
electrical system) or mechanical (i.e., perform certain functions
in response to lever arm actions). In any configuration, the system
would have stages of operation. For example, upon turning the gun
on, the heating element would begin to heat up. At this time, the
fan would not be in operation. Once the heating element was
sufficiently hot to turn the liquid into vapor, the fan could be
activated.
[0110] Generally, to begin the process, the lever 42 is in the
first position 44, which through the linkage system and lever arms
positions the bubble mechanism 62 within the receptacle 74. Since
receptacle 74 is preferably bowl shaped, a liquid can be held
therein. Preferably any bubble producing liquid can be used. For
example, general liquid soap can be used. The liquid preferably
forms a film across the opening 64 of the bubble mechanism 62, as
is generally known in the bubble producing art.
[0111] As lever arm 42 is moved toward the second position, two
things happen, substantially simultaneously. First lever arm causes
the series of linkages and lever arms to bias or move the lever arm
92 in the direction of reservoir 90. Since reservoir 90 is
flexible, lever arm 92 compresses the reservoir 90, thereby
decreasing the interior volume thereof. This decrease in volume
forces fluid 91 up through the heating element 94 (i.e., between
the metal tube and the glass element). Since the glass element has
been heated, this causes the fluid to turn to smoke or vapor.
[0112] The second action that occurs is that the series of lever
arms and linkages causes disk 148 to rotate in a clockwise
direction (as shown in FIG. 3). This rotation brings the bubble
mechanism up parallel to the base 18. Also, the series of linkages
and lever arms move the receptacle 74 in a downward direction, away
from the pivoting portion 26.
[0113] The fan begins to suck or draw the smoke from the handle
into the blades of the fan, and tube 141 and tube 139 align to form
a single passageway. The fan then pushes the smoke through tubes
139 and 141. It is noted that air from the gun preferably enters
the interior of the housing through the opening 124 or simply
through the open portions of the housing. This air helps cool
portions of the gun, such as the heating element and the fan and
also mixes with the smoke to produce an air/smoke combination.
[0114] The smoke or air/smoke combination travels through the
bubble mechanism 48 forming bubbles having smoke and/or air trapped
or encased therein. As discussed above, the fan can have a variable
speed motor, which would allow varying sized bubbles and various
rates at which bubbles are produced. For example, the fan could
operate between speeds that would allow only one large bubble to be
produced or a stream of bubbles to be produced.
[0115] Any direction (such as up, down, left, right, clockwise,
counterclockwise, etc.) described herein is used solely for
exemplary purposes and is not meant to limit the invention.
[0116] FIG. 9 illustrates a second embodiment 200 of the reservoir
for the smoke fluid and the heating element. Specifically, the
embodiment of FIG. 9 has a fog solution reservoir tank or
receptacle 210 that is in fluid communication with bellows 212. The
smoke or fog solution 91 is initially introduced into the
receptacle 210 through as nozzle (not shown), similar to nozzle 96.
Reservoir 210 has a first opening or air inlet 214, a second
opening 216 and a third opening 217. The second opening has a first
conduit or pipe 218 inserted therein that extends into reservoir
210, such that fluid can enter the conduit 218.
[0117] Conduit 218 preferably has a one way check valve 220 that
only allows fluid to travel in the direction of arrow 222. End 224
of conduit 218 enters first opening 226 of bellows 212. Bellows 212
has a second opening 228 with a second conduit or pipe 230
extending therefrom. End 232 of conduit 230 extends into bellows
212 in such a manner as to allow fluid to enter conduit 230.
Conduit 230 has a one way check valve 231 that only allows fluid to
travel in the direction of arrow 232.
[0118] Conduit 230 extends to and is in fluid communication with a
chamber 234 that houses heating element 236. Heating element 236 is
preferably a MICA tube having a resistance wire 238 coiled
therearound. The resistance wire is prefereably electrically
connected to a power source such as the battery compartment 32.
[0119] Chamber 234 also has an opening 239 that is in fluid
communication with fan 240 and an opening 242 that is in fluid
communication with reservoir 210 through conduit 244 that extends
through opening 217. Conduit 244 has a one way check valve 246 that
only allows fluid to travel in the direction of arrow 248.
[0120] Additionally, fan housing 250 can have a drain valve 252
therein to allow any condensation to drain from the housing.
[0121] In operation, when lever arm 42 is moved to first position
44, lever arm 254 moves in the direction of arrow 256. This
movement expands baffles 214, which draws or sucks fluid from
reservoir 212 into the baffles. Then as the lever arm 42 is moved
from the first position to the second position, the lever arm 254
contracts or compresses baffles 214. This compression forces the
fluid through conduit 230 and into the chamber 234. The fluid
contacts the heating element 236, which in turn heats the fluid
causing the fluid to turn to smoke, The smoke in then drawn into
the fan 240. Any excess fluid returns to reservoir 212 via conduit
244.
[0122] This embodiment is simply used in place of reservoir 90 and
heating element 94, and any other description of the gun or
operation thereof is applicable to this embodiment.
[0123] Referring now to FIGS. 10 through 24, another embodiment of
the bubble device or toy bubble gun of the present invention is
illustrated where the bubble device or bubble gun 300 produces
varying sizes and/or shapes of vapor-filled, fog-filled, or
smoke-filled bubbles.
[0124] Referring to FIGS. 10 through 17F, the bubble device or toy
bubble gun 300 includes a housing 302 having a first side, first
half or portion 303a and a second side, second half or portion
303b. In one embodiment, the housing 302 is made with a suitable,
durable plastic. It should be appreciated that the housing may be
made of any suitable material or materials. In one embodiment, the
left side 303b of the housing 302 includes all of the components or
parts of the bubble device. The other side 303a of the bubble
device is configured to mate with the left side 303b to enclose all
of the components. It should be appreciated that the left side, the
right side or both sides 303a and 303b of the housing 302 may
include one or more of the components of the bubble device.
Specifically, the housing 302 includes a barrel section 304, a
handle or grip section 306 and a base or bottom section 308 which
integrally form the housing. A nozzle mouth or nozzle connector 310
illustrated in FIG. 17E is connected to the front portion the
housing 302. A ring connector 360 including concentric inner and
outer rings 362 and 364 is connected to the nozzle connector 310
and is adapted to receive and connect with a nozzle or wand 312.
The ring connector 360 includes arms 366 which connect the inner
ring 364 to the outer ring 362. The nozzle or wand 312 is
configured to produce a particular size or shape bubble from the
bubble device. It should be appreciated that the nozzle 312 may be
any suitable size or shape or having any suitable configuration.
The housing 302 further includes at least one vent 314 connected to
one or both sides of the housing to release any heat generated by
the internal components of the bubble device as well as enable air
to circulate within the inside of the housing.
[0125] In one embodiment, the bubble device 300 includes a battery
or battery pack 320 which provides power to one or more of the
components inside of the housing 302 of the bubble device. As
illustrated in FIGS. 17C and D, the battery pack includes a housing
320 having a plurality of sections or compartments for receiving
one or more batteries 321. In one embodiment, the bubble device 300
includes a battery pack having a housing 320 including six
compartments for receiving six batteries 321 as illustrated in FIG.
17C. It should be appreciated that any suitable number of batteries
or types of batteries may be employed by the bubble device to
supply power to the bubble device.
[0126] Referring to FIGS. 10 through 16, in one embodiment, the
bubble device 300 includes a storage container or reservoir 326
which stores a lubricant, lubricating solution, oil solution or oil
which is transferred to heater assembly 322 which heats the oil to
produce a vapor, fog or smoke. The bubble device 300 also includes
a fan assembly 324 which generates air that is directed through the
heater assembly 322 and through the nozzle or wand 312 (which has a
thin portion of bubble solution extending across one surface of the
nozzle) to produce a vapor-filled, fog-filled or smoked-filled
bubble from the bubble device when a user activates the first
and/or second activators 316 and 328 of the bubble device.
[0127] Referring to FIGS. 10, 11, 13, 14, 18 and 19A through 19E,
one embodiment of the storage container or storage reservoir 326 is
illustrated. The storage container or storage reservoir 326
includes a container housing 368 which defines a first opening 369a
and a second opening 369b. The housing 368 may be made of any
suitable material such as a durable plastic and includes a base or
bottom and upwardly extending walls which form a receptacle or
container for receiving the lubricant or oil solution described
above. The housing 368 may be any suitable size or shape which fits
within the bubble device. A container top or top member 370 is
connected to the top or top portion of the housing 368 to seal the
housing and prevent the oil or oil solution from spilling or
leaking outside of the storage container and into the inside of the
bubble device. The top member lid or container top 370 may be
integrally formed with the housing 368 or manufactured as a
separate component which is connected to the top of the
housing.
[0128] In one embodiment, an access cover or sealer 372 is
configured to seal the openings 369a and 369b of the housing 368.
The access cover 372 is made of a resilient material such as a
durable rubber and includes a lock plug 374 and a seal plug 376
which are integrally formed with the access cover. The lock plug
374 is configured to frictionally fit within the opening 369b to
seal the opening 369b and attach the access cover 372 to the
housing 368. The seal plug 376 is configured and sized to
frictionally fit within the opening 369a to seal the opening 369a.
As illustrated in FIG. 16, at least a portion of the housing 368
and the access cover 372 are accessible from the exterior of the
bubble device to enable a user to access the storage container 326
to fill or remove the lubricant or oil solution from inside of the
storage container 326. In operation, a user grabs or holds the top
portion of the access cover 372 and pulls the top portion of the
access cover 372 away from the housing 368 to remove the seal plug
376 from the opening 369a. This exposes the opening 369a and
enables a user to fill the lubricant or oil solution into the
housing 368 of the storage container. Similarly, the oil solution
or lubricant can be removed from the storage container by tilting
or angling the bubble device such that gravity causes the oil
solution or lubricant to drip from or otherwise pour out of the
storage container.
[0129] In one embodiment, the top member or housing cover 370
includes a seal receptacle 378 adapted to receive a seal member or
seal 380 as shown in FIGS. 19D and 19E, and three openings 381, 382
and 383. Specifically, the seal receptacle 378 includes at least
one wall which is integrally formed with the container top 370 and
extends a designated distance from the bottom surface. A transfer
opening or first opening 381 is defined by the container top and is
positioned inside of the seal receptacle. The transfer opening is
sized and adapted to receive a communication line or tube for
transferring or delivering the oil solution or lubricant from the
inside of the housing 368 to the heater assembly 322 via the pump
330. A second opening or vent opening 382 is defined by the
container top and is adapted to receive a different communication
line or tube to vent the inside of the housing 368. The vent
opening 382 enables the pressure to be equalized or controlled
within the housing 368. A third opening or drain opening 383 is
defined by the container top and is adapted to receive a
communication line or tube connected to the heater assembly. In
particular, the drain line from the heater assembly, which is
described in more detail below, is connected to the opening 383 to
drain excess lubricant or oil solution not heated by the heater
assembly from the housing of the heater assembly.
[0130] Referring now to FIGS. 10 through 16, 20A and 20B, one
embodiment of a pump 330 of the bubble device of the present
invention is illustrated where the pump facilitates the delivery or
transfer of the lubricant or oil solution from the storage
container 326 to the heater assembly 322. In one embodiment, the
pump 330 includes a first valve 384, a second valve 385 and a bulb
386. As illustrated in FIG. 20A, the first valve 384 and second
valve 385 are connected to a lid or cover which is secured and/or
connected to the bulb 386. The first valve and second valve 384 and
385 are manufactured of a durable material such as a durable
plastic. It should be appreciated that any suitable material may be
used to form the first and second valves 384 and 385. The first and
second valves 384 and 385 each include resilient members or springs
as illustrated in FIG. 28. The spring in the second valve 385
compresses when the bulb 386 is at least partially compressed to
enable at least a portion of the lubricant or oil solution to flow
into and through the communication line 355. When the bulb 386
expands back to its initial state, the spring also expands to an
initial state to seal the end of the communication line 355 and
prevent the lubricant or oil solution in this line from moving back
into the bulb 386. Similarly, first valve 384 compresses when the
bulb is compressed to allow the lubricant or oil solution to enter
the bulb from the storage container. When the bulb expands back to
an initial position, the spring expands to its initial position to
close off the valve. It should be appreciated that the first and
second valves 384 and 385 may be any suitable valves such as check
valves or other suitable valves.
[0131] In one embodiment, the bulb 386 is formed of a durable
plastic or durable rubber which is resilient and able to expand and
contract due to pressure applied to the bulb. As described above,
the bulb 386 receives at least a portion of the lubricant, oil or
oil solution stored in the storage container. When the bulb 386 is
compressed or squeezed, at least a portion of the lubricant or oil
solution inside of the bulb 386 is directed out of the second valve
355 through the communication line 355 and to the heater assembly
322. In another embodiment, the pump 330 includes an
electrically-powered or battery-powered pump which receives and
delivers the lubricant or oil solution to the heater assembly. It
should be appreciated that any suitable pump or pumping device may
be employed by the bubble device of the present invention to
receive and deliver the lubricant oil solution to the heater
assembly.
[0132] Referring to FIGS. 10 through 16, 18, and 21A through 21G,
one embodiment of the heater assembly 322 is illustrated where the
heater assembly 322 heats at least a portion or a designated amount
of the lubricant or oil solution contained in the storage container
to create or produce a vapor such as a fog or smoke that is emitted
from the bubble device 300. In this embodiment, the heater assembly
322 includes a upper housing 388 and a lower housing 390 which are
configured to matingly connect with each other to enclose the
internal component such as the heating components of the heater
assembly. The upper housing 388 includes protruding members or
supports which secure and hold the heating element or heater 394.
Specifically, at least two contacts or electrically connectors 392
are connected to the supports and are spaced apart at designated
length or distance. The heating element or heater 394 is secured to
each of the contacts. Each contact 392 is in electrical
communication with or are electrically connected to the batteries
321 and the battery housing 320 via suitable connectors or wiring
342. The electrical current or electricity generated by the battery
is supplied to at least one of the contacts 392 to generate a
current such as an electrical current across the heating element or
heater 394. The heating element heater 394 is made of a suitable
material such a suitable electrically conductive material which
heats up as the electricity or electric current passes through or
across the heating element or heater 394. The heat generated by the
heating element 394 heats at least a portion of the lubricant or
oil solution transferred or delivered to the heater assembly. The
heated oil or lubricant transforms into a vapor, fog or smoke when
the oil solution or lubricant contacts the heater or heater element
394.
[0133] In one embodiment, the temperature of the heating element or
heater 394 is determined based on the suitable temperature
necessary to produce a desired vapor, fog or smoke. In this
embodiment, the upper housing 388 defines at least two openings.
One of the openings is adapted to receive and secure the
communication line or tube connected to the pump 330. This
communication line or tube delivers the oil solution or lubricant
to the heater assembly. The heater assembly is positioned in the
bubble device such that the oil solution or lubricant delivered
from the pump drips onto or contacts the heater 394 in small
droplets or drips due to gravity. It should be appreciated that a
suitable sprayer or spraying device may be employed to deliver the
oil solution or lubricant into contact with the heater 394.
[0134] The second or other opening defined by the upper housing 388
of the heater assembly is configured and adapted to receive another
communication line or tube 351 which is connected to the storage
container. The communication line or tube is a drain line or tube
which transfers or delivers any unused or excess lubricant or oil
solution, which was not heated by the heating elements, back to the
storage container to conserve the lubricants or oil solution.
[0135] In one embodiment, the heater assembly 322 includes a first
tube connector 396 and a second tube connector 398 which are
connected to opposing ends of the connected upper and lower
housings 388 and 390. The first connector illustrated in FIG. 21G
includes semicircular flanges or flange members which are
configured to secure the connector to the connected upper and lower
housing 388 and 390. The first tube connector 396 is connected to
the fan assembly 324. The second tube connector 398 includes at
least one outwardly extending flange and is secured to the upper
and lower housing 388 and 390, opposite to the first connector. The
second connector 398 is in a position adjacent to the bubble
emitting opening of the bubble device and is sized to connect with
the adaptor 399 as illustrated in FIG. 18. It should be appreciated
that the first and second connectors 396 and 398 may be any
suitable size or shape or any suitable type of connector.
[0136] Referring to FIGS. 10 through 16, and 22A through 22K, one
embodiment of the fan assembly 324 is illustrated where the fan
assembly generates air which is directed into the heater assembly
322 and into the bubble solution on the nozzle or wand 312 on the
bubble device to produce one or a plurality of bubbles from the
bubble device. The fan assembly 324 includes a top fan support 344a
and a bottom fan support 344b. The bottom fan support 344b is
positioned adjacent to the inside surface of the left side 303b of
the housing 302 of the bubble device. The bottom fan support 344b
is sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the gears
402. Specifically, one of the gears 402 (i.e., the lower gear)
illustrated in FIG. 22J, is moveably or rotatably connected to the
rear surface of the top fan support 344a by inserting a shaft
connected to the gear into an opening defined by the surface. The
other gear 402 (i.e., the upper gear) which includes a shaft
connected to the gear and a smaller sun gear integrally formed with
the gear is inserted into the fan support and positioned adjacent
to the lower gear 402. The gears 402 are positioned such that the
inner teeth of the upper gear 402 mesh with the outer teeth of the
lower gear 402 to cause the upper gear to move or rotate when the
lower gear moves or rotates. Furthermore, the outer teeth of the
upper gear mesh with the teeth of the sun gear 406 which is
moveably connected to the fan support 344a. Specifically, one end
of a shaft 404 is connected to the sun gear 406 and the other end
of the shaft extends through the fan support and is connected to
the fan or impeller 340. Therefore, when the sun gear 406 moves or
rotates, the fan or impeller 340 moves or rotates in the same or
similar direction.
[0137] In this embodiment, a gear member 346 or elongated planar
gear 346 including a plurality of teeth is connected to the first
activator or trigger 316. In one embodiment, the gear member 346 is
integrally formed with the first activator or trigger 316. In
another embodiment, the gear member 346 is manufactured as a
separate component which is connected to suitable attached to the
trigger 316. The teeth on the gear member 346 are sized and
positioned to mesh with the outer teeth of the lower gear 402.
Accordingly, as the trigger 316 is pulled inward or activated, the
gear member 346 also moves inward which causes the meshing teeth of
the gear member 346 and the lower gear 402 to move the lower gear
402 in the same direction or counterclockwise direction. The
movement of the lower gear in the counterclockwise direction causes
the upper gear to rotate in a clockwise direction. In turn, the
clockwise movement of the upper gear 402 causes the sun gear 406 to
move in a counterclockwise direction and similarly causes the
impeller to move in the counterclockwise direction. It should be
appreciated that the gears may move in any suitable direction or
directions. The movement of the fan or impeller 340 moves the air
within the fan assembly as the fan blades on the impeller 340 force
or push the air in the fan assembly as the fan blades rotate. The
lower gear 402 is a slip gear or ratchet gear which only moves in
one direction. Therefore, when the first activator or trigger 316
is released and the gear member 346 moves in the opposite
direction, the lower gear 402 slips or does not move with the gear
member. Therefore, the impeller or fan 340 only moves in one
direction and continued to spin for a period of time until the
friction of the air against the fan blades slows the fan or
impeller 340 to a stop.
[0138] In one embodiment, a fan cover 400 is manufactured and
configured to matingly engage the top fan support 344a. In
particularly, the top fan support 344a includes a wall integrally
formed with the fan support to frictionally engage a corresponding
wall or walls of the fan cover 400. Suitable connectors such as one
or more of the screws 318 illustrated in FIG. 10 are used to secure
the fan cover to the top and bottom fan supports and to the housing
302. It should be appreciated that any suitable connectors may be
used to secure any of the components or parts of the bubble
device.
[0139] In the illustrated embodiment, the fan assembly 324
described above includes a centrifugal fan which is mechanically
powered by the activation of the activator or trigger 316 by a
user. The mechanically-powered or activated fan, therefore,
conserves power such as battery power or electricity to enable the
batteries to last longer and provide longer lasting enjoyment for
users during the life of the batteries.
[0140] Referring now to FIGS. 10 through 16 and 23, one embodiment
of the first activator or trigger 316 is illustrated where the
trigger includes a first part and a second part 408a and 408b which
are manually engaged to form a trigger 316. The first part or half
408a includes receptacles which mate with the protruding member of
the second part 408b as illustrated in FIG. 23. The first and
second parts 408a and 408b of the trigger 316 are connected
together and also connect about an extending member of the gear
member 346 which connects the trigger 316 to the gear member 346.
This enables the gear member 346 to move when the trigger is
activated or pushed inward. The trigger 316 is moveably connected
to the housing 302 such that the trigger moves a predetermined
distance within the housing 302. Specifically, the trigger is
moveably connected to the housing 302 such that the inner portion
of a trigger contacts the pump 330 when the trigger is fully
compressed, activated or pushed inward into the housing 302. The
contact of the trigger 316 with the pump 330 causes the pump to
dispense or deliver at least a portion of the oil solution or
lubricant to the heater assembly as described above. Therefore,
each time the trigger 316 is activated, the pump delivers at least
a portion of the oil solution or lubricant to the heater assembly.
It should be appreciated that the trigger 316 may be connected to
the housing 302 to move within the housing any designed or
predetermined distance to dispense or deliver any suitable amount
of oil solution or lubricant to the heater assembly.
[0141] Referring to FIGS. 10, 11, 13, 14 and 16, one embodiment of
a second activator or trigger 328 is illustrated where the second
activator or trigger is electrically connected to the heater
assembly and the battery to supply electricity or electrical
current to the heater assembly from the battery when the second
trigger 328 is activated or pushed inward by a user. Specifically,
a user grasps the handle portion of the housing 302 to push the
second activator 328 inward or activate the second activator. As
illustrated in FIG. 14, the inward movement of the second activator
328 causes a first contact positioned adjacent to the inside
surface of the second activator to contact or engage a second
contact. The engagement of the first and second contacts connects
the circuit between the battery and the heater assembly to deliver
the electrically current from the battery to the heater assembly to
heat the heater or heater element in the heater assembly. When the
second activator or trigger 328 is released or is moved outward,
the first and second contacts separate or disconnect to interrupt
the flow of the electricity from the battery to the heater
assembly, thereby turning off the heater in the heater assembly. It
should be appreciated that the bubble device of the present
invention may produce or generate bubbles without vapor, fog or
smoke inside of the bubbles. In this embodiment, the user simply
does not activate the second activator while activating the first
activator. This causes the fan assembly to mover air through the
nozzle or wand to produce bubbles but does not activate the heater
assembly to produce the vapor, fog or smoke that fills the bubbles.
It should be appreciated that any suitable activator or trigger
such as a suitable input, switch or button may be used as the
second activator or trigger 328 in the present invention.
[0142] Referring to FIGS. 11, 12, 15 and 18, one embodiment of a
switch mechanism or switch 332 is illustrated where the switch 332
is a slide switch or switch which is moveably connected to the
housing 302. As illustrated in FIG. 15, the switch 332 may be moved
from one position to a second position such as an "on" position and
an "of" position. The switch may be any suitable switch such as a
slide switch, toggle switch or any other suitable switch. In this
embodiment the switch 332 is initially in the off position which
prevents electrical current or electricity delivered from the
battery from being supplied to the heater assembly 322. When the
switch is moved to the on position as illustrated in FIG. 15, the
switch connects the electrically current from the battery to the
heater assembly to enable the electrical current to pass from the
battery to the heater assembly to heat the heater in the heater
assembly. It should be appreciated that the switch may be a
moveable switch, a input or button or any other suitable switch or
button.
[0143] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 18, a light, such as a light
emitting diode (L.E.D.) 334 is connected to the housing 302 and is
visible by a user from the outside of the house. The LED 334 is
electrically connected to the switch 332 using suitable wiring or
connectors. The LED illuminates when the switch 332 is in the on
position to indicate or show the user that the bubble device is
turned on. The light illuminating from or emitted by the LED is off
or not illuminated when the switch is in the off position or in the
position which disconnects the electrical current from the battery
to the heater assembly. The light or LED 334, therefore, indicates
to a user when the bubble device is powered on or powered off. It
should be appreciated that any suitable light, such as an LED or
other suitable light source may be employed by the bubble device of
the present invention.
[0144] Referring now to FIG. 24, a separate and portable reservoir
or bubble solution tray 500 is illustrated which is configured to
hold a designated amount of bubble solution such as soap, a soap
water mixture or other suitable bubble solution. The container,
reservoir or tray 500 is sized to receive at least a portion of the
nozzle or wand 312. A user pours a designated amount of the bubble
solution into the tray 500. The user then inserts at least a
portion of the nozzle or wand 312 into the bubble solution in the
tray 500 to temporarily secure or hold a fine layer of the bubble
solution (i.e., a meniscus of the bubble solution) across the outer
surface nozzle or wand 312. It should be appreciated that the
bubble solution tray or container 500 may be any suitable size or
shape to correspond to any suitable size or shape of the nozzle or
wand 312.
[0145] In operation, a user grasps or holds the bubble device 300
at the handle section of the housing 302 and inserts the nozzle or
wand 312 in the bubble solution tray 500 and specifically, into the
bubble solution held by the tray 500 to hold a thin film of the
bubble solution on the outer surface of the nozzle or wand 312. The
user then simultaneously or successively activates the first and
second triggers 316 and 328, respectively. The activation of the
second trigger 328 causes electricity to flow from the batteries
321 in the battery housing 320 through the wiring to the heater
assembly 322. The electrical current flows through the contacts 392
and the heating element or heater 394 to cause the heating element
394 to heat up or produce heat. The activation of the first trigger
316 compresses the pump 330 to cause the pump to transfer the oil
solution or lubricant from the storage container 326 through the
pump 330 to the heater assembly 322. The oil solution or lubricant
drips onto or contacts the heated heater or heating element 394 to
produce a vapor, fog or smoke. The activation of the first trigger
316 also causes the gear member 346 to mesh with the lower gear 402
of the fan assembly 324 which in turn causes the gears 402 and 406
to rotate. Likewise, the fan 340 rotates to move air through the
vapor, fog or smoke in the heater assembly 322 and out through the
opening of the nozzle connector 310. The air, smoke mixture is
directed into the bubble solution on the outside surface of the
nozzle or wand 312 which forms a smoke-filled bubble or bubbles.
The user can then activate the first and/or second triggers 316 and
328 continuously or intermittingly to produce one or more
vapor-filled, fog-filled or smoke-filled bubbles from the bubble
device.
[0146] In an alternative embodiment, the bubble device, bubble
generator or bubble toy of the present invention produces at least
one vapor-filled bubble that is substantially enclosed in another
bubble produced by the bubble toy. In this embodiment, the bubble
may be any suitable size or shape. Additionally, the vapor may be
one color or a plurality of colors. Similarly, at least one or a
plurality of the bubbles may include one color or a plurality of
colors.
[0147] In one alternative embodiment, the present invention is
directed to a bubble device or bubble toy including a housing, a
first nozzle or wand connected to the housing, and a second nozzle
or wand connected to the housing. In one embodiment, the first
nozzle and second nozzle are integrally formed such that the first
nozzle and second nozzle are concentrically arranged. In another
embodiment, the first nozzle and the second nozzle are separate
nozzles positioned adjacent to each other. It should be appreciated
that any suitable number of nozzles or wands including any suitable
size and shape may be employed by the present invention. In this
embodiment, the first nozzle is adapted to receive and at least
temporarily hold a bubble solution. The second nozzle is positioned
adjacent to the first nozzle, and is adapted to receive and at
least temporarily hold the bubble solution. The toy also includes a
vapor generator mounted in the housing and an air mover mounted in
the housing.
[0148] The toy further includes a first communication line, where
one end of the first communication line is connected to the air
mover, and a second opposite end of the first communication line is
connected to the vapor generator. The second end directs air
through the vapor generator and the bubble solution on the first
nozzle. The toy includes a second communication line, where one end
of the second communication line is connected to the air mover and
is positioned adjacent to the second nozzle. An activator is
movably connected to the housing. The activator is in communication
with the vapor generator and the air mover. In operation, upon the
activation of the activator, the activator causes the air mover to
direct air through second communication line and into the bubble
solution on the second nozzle to produce a first bubble and causes
the air mover to direct air through the first communication line
and the vapor generator to direct vapor generated by the vapor
generator into the bubble solution on the second nozzle to produce
a vapor-filled second bubble, where the first bubble substantially
encloses at least a portion of the second bubble.
[0149] It should be understood that various changes and
modifications to the presently preferred embodiments described
herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes
and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and
scope of the present invention and without diminishing its intended
advantages. It is therefore intended that such changes and
modifications be covered by the appended claims.
* * * * *