U.S. patent application number 11/759760 was filed with the patent office on 2008-12-11 for figurine with selectable audio and visual perception.
Invention is credited to Furn Roberts.
Application Number | 20080305710 11/759760 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40096310 |
Filed Date | 2008-12-11 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080305710 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Roberts; Furn |
December 11, 2008 |
Figurine with Selectable Audio and Visual Perception
Abstract
A figurine and method of use is having selectable
personalization includes a doll having a head and torso, also a
base disposed adjacent to the head, the base including a
surrounding sidewall extending from a bottom portion to an opening
defining a first interior that receives a first selected indicia.
Further, a transparent cover including an outer periphery that is
removably engaged from the sidewall opening. The cover having a
first side and second side forming a concave profile to define a
second interior portion, with the second side adjacent to the base
when the cover and base are engaged, wherein the first and second
interior portions form a chamber for the first indicia to be
protectively and securely displayed. The base and cover engagement
prevents unauthorized removal of the first indicia from the chamber
by requiring a tool to separate the base and the cover.
Inventors: |
Roberts; Furn; (Denver,
CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JACKSON ESQUIRE;ROGER A. JACKSON
1115 GRANT STREET, SUITE G-7
DENVER
CO
80203-2399
US
|
Family ID: |
40096310 |
Appl. No.: |
11/759760 |
Filed: |
June 7, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
446/297 ;
446/321 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63H 3/28 20130101; A63H
3/365 20130101; A63H 3/50 20130101; A63H 3/48 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
446/297 ;
446/321 |
International
Class: |
A63H 3/28 20060101
A63H003/28; A63H 3/12 20060101 A63H003/12 |
Claims
1. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization,
comprising: (a) a doll including a head portion and a torso
portion; (b) a substantially rigid base that is disposed adjacent
to said head portion, said base including a surrounding sidewall
extending from a bottom portion to an opening, said bottom portion
and sidewall defining a first interior portion of said base that is
sized and configured to receive a first substantially planar
selected indicia; and (c) a substantially rigid transparent cover
including an outer peripheral portion that is adapted to be
removably engaged from said sidewall opening, said cover having a
first side and a second side, said second side forming a
substantially concave profile to define a second interior portion,
with said second side adjacent to said base when said outer
peripheral portion and said opening are manually engaged forming an
assembled and locked state for said base and cover, wherein said
first interior portion and said second interior portion form a
substantially rigid chamber for the first planar selected indicia
to be substantially protectively and securely displayed within said
substantially rigid chamber, said substantially rigid chamber is
sized and configured such that the first selected indicia does not
have to be attached to said base or said cover to help prevent
damage to the selected indicia, as said removable engagement
between said base opening and said cover peripheral portion is
operational to prevent unauthorized removal of the selected first
indicia from said substantially rigid chamber by requiring an
independent tool to separate said base and said cover into a
disassembled unlocked state to remove or replace the first selected
indicia to further enhance security of said assembled state.
2. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 1 wherein said removable engagement is an
interference fit wherein said base opening has a periphery size
that is less than a cover outer periphery size when both said base
opening and said cover outer periphery are in said disassembled
unlocked state.
3. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 1 wherein said cover outer peripheral portion
further includes a key slot that is sized and configured to receive
said tool, said key slot is operational to facilitate said tool
disengaging said removable engagement to place said base and said
cover into said disassembled unlocked state.
4. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 1 wherein said base being disposed adjacent to
said head portion is accomplished by a plurality of apertures in
said base that are stitched therethrough to said head portion.
5. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 1 wherein said substantially rigid chamber is
also sized and configured such that selected first indicia is a
selected photograph that is positioned to be displayed through said
cover.
6. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 1 further comprising a means for a selectable
audio recording and playback to further enhance the personalization
effect of said figurine.
7. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 6 wherein said means for a selectable audio
recording and playback is constructed of an electronic audio module
that is disposed within said torso portion.
8. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 7 wherein said electronic audio module is sized
and configured such that an actuation/de-actuation control is
operable exterior to said torso portion by merely squeezing said
torso portion for the purpose of audio playback operation.
9. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 8 wherein said electronic audio module is sized
and configured such that an erase control and a record control are
only operable by removing said torso portion from said audio module
to further prevent inadvertent erase and re-record of prior said
selected audio recording.
10. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 9 wherein said electronic audio module is
constructed of circuitry that includes a programmable integrated
circuit chip, said actuation/de-actuation, erase, and record
controls, a microphone, a speaker, and a power supply all contained
within a common housing.
11. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 10 wherein said programmable integrated circuit
chip is capable of at least two hundred and forty (240) seconds
selected audio record time.
12. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 1 further comprising a selected second indicia
that is disposed adjacent to said torso portion to further enhance
the personalization effect of said figurine.
13. A figurine that is capable of selectable personalization
according to claim 12 wherein said selected second indicia is in
the form of specific astrological indications.
14. A kit for a figurine that is capable of selectable
personalization, comprising: (a) a doll including a head portion
and a torso portion; (b) a substantially rigid base that is
disposed adjacent to said head portion, said base including a
surrounding sidewall extending from a bottom portion to an opening,
said bottom portion and sidewall of said base defining a first
interior portion that is sized and configured to receive a first
substantially planar selected indicia; (c) a substantially rigid
transparent cover including an outer peripheral portion that is
adapted to be removably engaged from said sidewall opening, said
cover outer peripheral portion includes a key slot, said cover
having a first side and a second side, said second side forming a
substantially concave profile to define a second interior portion,
with said second side adjacent to said base when said outer
peripheral portion and said opening are manually engaged forming an
assembled and locked state for said base and cover, wherein said
first interior portion and said second interior portion form a
substantially rigid chamber for the first planar selected indicia
to be substantially protectively and securely displayed within said
substantially rigid chamber, said substantially rigid chamber is
sized and configured such that the first selected indicia does not
have to be attached to said base or said cover to help prevent
damage to the selected indicia, as said removable engagement
between said base opening and said cover peripheral portion is
operational to prevent unauthorized removal of the selected first
indicia from said substantially rigid chamber by requiring an
independent tool to separate said base and said cover into a
disassembled unlocked state to remove or replace the first selected
indicia to further enhance security of said assembled state; (d) an
electronic audio module that is disposed within said torso portion,
said electronic audio module is sized and configured such that an
actuation/de-actuation control is operable exterior to said torso
portion by merely squeezing said torso portion for the purpose of
audio playback operation, wherein an erase control and a record
control are only operable by removing said torso portion from said
audio module to further prevent inadvertent erase and re-record of
prior said selected audio recording, said electronic audio module
is constructed of circuitry that includes a programmable integrated
circuit chip, said actuation/de-actuation, erase, and record
controls, a microphone, a speaker, and a power supply all contained
within a common housing, wherein said programmable integrated
circuit chip is capable of at least two hundred and forty (240)
seconds selected audio record time; (e) a selected second indicia
that is disposed adjacent to said torso portion to further enhance
the personalization effect of said figurine; (f) a pattern sheet
adapted to indicate a position of said selected second indicia
relative to said torso portion; (g) a tool that is received in said
key slot and is operational for placing said cover and base into
said disassembled unlocked state; and (h) a set of operating
instructions for use of said tool and said electronic audio
module.
15. A method for using a figurine that is capable of selectable
personalization, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a doll
including a head portion and a torso portion, said doll also
includes a substantially rigid base that is disposed adjacent to
said head portion, said base including a surrounding sidewall
extending from a bottom portion to an opening, said bottom portion
and sidewall of said base defining a first interior portion that is
sized and configured to receive a first substantially planar
selected indicia, said doll also includes a substantially rigid
transparent cover including an outer peripheral portion that is
adapted to be removably engaged from said sidewall opening, said
cover outer peripheral portion includes a key slot, said cover
having a first side and a second side, said second side forming a
substantially concave profile to define a second interior portion,
with said second side adjacent to said base when said outer
peripheral portion and said opening are manually engaged forming an
assembled and locked state for said base and cover, wherein said
first interior portion and said second interior portion form a
substantially rigid chamber for the first planar selected indicia
to be substantially protectively and securely displayed within said
substantially rigid chamber, said substantially rigid chamber is
sized and configured such that the first selected indicia does not
have to be attached to said base or said cover to help prevent
damage to the selected indicia, as said removable engagement
between said base opening and said cover peripheral portion is
operational to prevent unauthorized removal of the selected first
indicia from said substantially rigid chamber by requiring an
independent tool to separate said base and said cover into a
disassembled unlocked state to remove or replace the first selected
indicia to further enhance security of said assembled state, said
doll also includes an electronic audio module that is disposed
within said torso portion, said electronic audio module is sized
and configured such that an actuation/de-actuation control is
operable exterior to said torso portion by merely squeezing said
torso portion for the purpose of audio playback operation, wherein
an erase control and a record control are only operable by removing
said torso portion from said audio module to further prevent
inadvertent erase and re-record of prior said selected audio
recording, said electronic audio module is constructed of circuitry
that includes a programmable integrated circuit chip, said
actuation/de-actuation, erase, and record controls, a microphone, a
speaker, and a power supply all contained within a common housing,
wherein said programmable integrated circuit chip is capable of at
least two hundred and forty (240) seconds selected audio record
time, said doll further includes a selected second indicia that is
disposed adjacent to said torso portion to further enhance the
personalization effect of said figurine, a pattern sheet adapted to
indicate a position of said selected second indicia relative to
said torso portion, a tool for placing said cover and base into
said disassembled unlocked state and operating instructions for use
of said tool and said electronic audio module; (b) grasping said
tool; (c) inserting said tool into said key slot and moving said
tool to be at an obtuse angle in relation to said cover first side,
wherein said tool is operational for placing said cover and base
into said disassembled unlocked state; and (d) selecting a photo;
(e) placing the photo into said first interior portion image side
up; (f) grasping said cover; (g) positioning said cover second side
to face the photo image side; (h) pressing said cover manually
toward said base such that said cover outer peripheral portion
engages said base opening forming an assembled and locked state for
said base and said cover, resulting in the selected photo being
operationally protectively and securely displayed through said
cover; (i) removing said torso portion from around electronic audio
module for access to said actuation/de-actuation, record, and erase
controls; (j) moving said erase control to off, said record control
to record, actuating said actuation control; and (k) speaking into
said microphone to make an audio recording for up to about two
hundred and forty (240) seconds and then de-actuating said
actuation/de-actuation control and moving said record control to a
play position.
16. A method for using a figurine that is capable of selectable
personalization according to claim 15 further comprising a step of
sizing the selected photo to be received in said first interior
portion by using said cover outer peripheral portion as a template,
wherein the photo is sized at about a one-eighth (1/8) inch less
that said outer periphery.
17. A method for using a figurine that is capable of selectable
personalization according to claim 15 wherein steps b through h are
sequentially repeated to replace the selected photo with another
selected photo.
18. A method for using a figurine that is capable of selectable
personalization according to claim 15 further comprising a step of
confirming said audio recording by actuating said
actuation/de-actuation control and listening to said audio
recording playback through said speaker.
19. A method for using a figurine that is capable of selectable
personalization according to claim 18 further comprising steps of
moving said erase control to on and actuating said
actuation/de-actuation control and then sequentially repeating said
steps I through k to record a new selected audio recording.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention generally relates to figurines that
have user selectable features for audio and visual perception to
personalize the figurine to a particular individual. More
particularly, the present invention is a figurine in the form of a
doll that typically includes a theme in the dressing style of the
doll, such as astrology for an example which can further customize
the doll to a particular individual in addition to a custom
recordable electronic audio module and a specific visual image that
can be mounted in the dolls face, that enhances an individual's
sensory perception in utilizing three of the five human senses from
the doll for sight (in the dressing theme and visual image adjacent
to the dolls face), sound (in the unique digital audio recording
disposed within the doll), and feel (in holding the doll),
resulting in an enhanced overall meaning of the doll to the
particular individual.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0002] There are many individuals who would benefit the most from a
doll having unique specific features that are fitting to a
particular individual such as someone in the military, nursing
home, children, a special person, spouse, graduate, or even a
special occasion and the like, with the doll being typically given
as a gift and can either be preprogrammed with a specific audio
message and/or visual image by the giver or the doll can be given
to the recipient generically, thus allowing the recipient to
program their own desired audio message and visual image to the
doll. Thus, the doll of the present invention has enhanced meaning
to either the owner of the doll or the recipient of the doll with
the added sensory perceptions of audio and sight perception
uniqueness. This has been partially recognized in the prior art
starting with U.S. Pat. No. 6,945,841 to Becker et al., that
discloses a customizable doll with interchangeable faces that are
removably engaged to the doll head by way of a magnetic sheet
having an adhesive on at least one surface for affixing the picture
onto, wherein the magnetic sheet is removably engaged to the blank
doll face. Becker et al., does suggest the use of a voice recording
mechanism and nothing more as to any enabling specifics of the
voice recording mechanism such type, the electronics involved,
controls, power, positioning, recording times and the like, in
addition, Becker et al., of necessity destroys the picture for any
other use as adhesive is applied to the photograph making it non
removable.
[0003] Continuing, in looking at the prior art in this area in U.S.
Pat. No. 4,020,586 to Benner disclosed is a doll with a transparent
envelope having a single opening at the top of the envelope wherein
the doll has a hair piece that covers the envelope opening. The
advantage of Benner is in not destroying the picture as does Becker
et al., however, the picture only being loosely retained in the
envelope slot and subject to dislodging from the envelope slot if
the doll were inverted. Further, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,403,224 to
Gintling disclosed is a photographic face doll with a removable
face pocket that is transparent on both sides and removably
engagable to the doll face with an adhesive fastener that allows
the face pocket to be reversed for two different pictures to be
displayed, in addition the pocket is sealable to prevent the
pictures from disengaging from the pocket. Thus, Gintling avoids
the shortcomings of Becker et al., destroying the picture or of
Benner potentially losing the picture should the doll be inverted.
Next, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,676,584 to Perryman disclosed is a doll
with interchangeable pre made faces each disposed within a
plurality of head slip covers that are removably engagable by a
closable hook and loop fastener slit that is vertically positioned
at the rear of the head slip cover. The drawback of Perryman is in
the need for the multitude of head slip covers adding bulk and cost
in addition to the lack of personalization of the facial expression
that Becker et al., Benner, and Gintling all accomplish through the
use of an actual selected photograph of an individual.
[0004] Next, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,848,900 to Pearson disclosed in an
educational doll with changeable face elements that are removably
engagable from a blank doll face by the use of hook and loop
fasteners. However, as in Perryman, Pearson lacks the ability to
personalize the facial expression of the doll through the use of an
actual selected photograph of an individual by the use of several
generic facial expressions created in fabric that are not specific
to any particular individual. Continuing, in U.S. Pat. No.
5,947,791 to Taylor disclosed is a replaceable photographic face
doll wherein the replaceable face is inserted in the doll's bonnet
that has an opening that circumvents the doll's facial opening,
with the bonnet's peripheral edge receiving the picture by the use
of an elasticized material. Problems with Taylor are in the lack of
protection for the photo as it is simply retained on its outer edge
where there is exposure to bending, liquids, abrasion, and the like
that can result in a high potential for damage to the photo.
Further, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,405,266 to Frank et al., disclosed is a
method of using a psychotherapeutic doll that has a plurality of
interchangeable facial elements that are used to express a
patient's emotional state in correspondence with a transparent
pocket type backpack wherein an indicia is deposited within the
pocket of a time in their life that relates to the emotional state
projected onto the doll face. In Frank et al., the faces are
attached to the doll head by the use of an elastic band, with the
faces being already provided; see FIG. 3, thus true personalization
is not really possible of the doll for the user, much the same as
in Perryman and Pearson.
[0005] Next, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,141,466 to Catizone disclosed is a
doll having a facial portion that includes a cut out opening using
tape and a drawstring to enclose a photograph that is sandwiched in
between a backing material on a back side and a transparent plate
on an exposed side. Catizone doesn't really supply a photo
protection system as the photo can slide around between the backing
and the plate and with the plate being taped to the fabric cut out
that makes the photo not easily changeable nor protected from
liquids, folding, creasing, and tape adhesive, adding to the
potential for damage to the photo, same as in Becker et al., and
Taylor. Continuing, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,842,900 to Hodge disclosed
is a photo doll that includes a displaceable panel having a
predetermined fixed face and disposed underneath the panel is a
series of photo holder leaves being similar to a wallet multiple
photo holder that is attached to the doll body by a hook and loop
fastener. The problem with Hodge is in the photo holder leaves such
that when they are exposed, i.e. when the panel is removed the
photos in the leaves are not retained meaning that they can slide
out of their holders and be lost or damaged see FIGS. 3 and 4,
causing problems similar to Benner as previously discussed. Next,
in U.S. Design Pat. No. D466,565 to Borgaro et al., disclosed is a
doll with a photographic face and template wherein the doll face
and template has similar sizing as a matched set, however, as this
is a design patent, there is no disclosure as to how the photo is
retained or protected. Further, in U.S. design Pat. No. D437,123 to
Leon disclosed is a figurine photograph holder, wherein the
figurine has a flat round face portion for holding a photograph,
and again as in Borgaro et al., there is no disclosure as to how
the photo is retained or protected.
[0006] Yet further, in looking more towards the talking doll prior
art, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,314,336 to Diamond et al., disclosed is a
doll that can have an audio output based upon an optical sensing of
a selected marker placed in front of the doll thus indirectly
enabling the doll to "read and speak" using technology similar to
bar code scanning technology, wherein the selected word is coded as
a series of scan lines that the doll circuitry can convert to
audible sounds with the purpose being for educational learning.
Further, in this area of prior art in U.S. Pat. No. 6,447,359 to
Crump disclosed is a memorial novelty doll, wherein the doll is of
a physical similarity to a person with the doll containing a voice
tape recording means disposed within, with the primary purpose
being to have a deceased person's voice play back within a doll
that has a physical likeness to the deceased person. In looking at
a sound module itself, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,045,327 to Tarlow et al.,
disclosed is a miniature sound module primarily for greeting cards
that adds the re-recording feature thus allowing an individual to
personalize a recording on the sound module. Continuing, in the
talking doll arts in U.S. Pat. No. 5,738,561 to Pracas disclosed is
a talking doll that utilizes a digital sound recording module that
has as activation points remotely wired to various parts of the
doll body, such that one doll hand is squeezed for recording,
another doll hand is squeezed for playing back in addition to the
combination of touching the doll's hand and leg for
activation/deactivation of the voice module, also with an "on"
light appearing as an earring on the doll. Also, in U.S. Pat. No.
4,840,602 to Rose a talking doll is disclosed that is responsive to
an external signal allowing a conversation with the doll by use of
radio signals to activate the dolls programmed response.
[0007] What is needed is a doll that can be personalized to a
particular individual eliciting responses from multiple human
senses to enhance the experience to the possessor of the doll. This
can be accomplished through customizable audio output of the doll
in conjunction with a selected visual image for the doll face,
wherein the picture is protected from the external environment, is
not damaged at all in its transparent enclosure, and is only
replaceable with a special tool to protect from inadvertent removal
of the visual image from its protectable holder, however with the
visual image not having any permanent damage from residing in its
protectable holder. In addition, the doll can have an overall image
or theme associated with it related to the doll's clothing that can
further personalize the doll's affiliation with a particular
individual by pleasurably stimulating the senses of sight, sound,
and touch.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0008] Broadly, the present invention is a figurine that is capable
of selectable personalization that includes a doll having a head
portion and a torso portion, further included in the figurine is a
substantially rigid base that is disposed adjacent to the head
portion, the base including a surrounding sidewall extending from a
bottom portion to an opening. The bottom portion and sidewall of
the base defining a first interior portion that is sized and
configured to receive a first substantially planar selected
indicia. Also included in the figurine is a substantially rigid
transparent cover including an outer peripheral portion that is
adapted to be removably engaged from the sidewall opening. The
cover having a first side and a second side, the second side
forming a substantially concave profile to define a second interior
portion, with the second side adjacent to the base when the outer
peripheral portion and the opening are manually engaged. The manual
engagement forming an assembled and locked state for the base and
cover, wherein the first interior portion and the second interior
portion form a substantially rigid chamber for the first planar
selected indicia to be substantially protectively and securely
displayed within the substantially rigid chamber. The substantially
rigid chamber is sized and configured such that the first selected
indicia does not have to be attached to the base or the cover to
help prevent damage to the selected indicia. As the removable
engagement between the base opening and the cover peripheral
portion is operational to prevent unauthorized removal of the
selected first indicia from the substantially rigid chamber by
requiring an independent tool to separate the base and the cover
into a disassembled unlocked state to remove or replace the first
selected indicia to further enhance security of the assembled
state.
[0009] These and other objects of the present invention will become
more readily appreciated and understood from a consideration of the
following detailed description of the exemplary embodiment(s) of
the present invention when taken together with the accompanying
drawings, in which;
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 shows a front view of the figurine with a second
selected indicia having specific astrological indications;
[0011] FIG. 2 shows a side view of the figurine with the second
selected indicia having specific astrological indications;
[0012] FIG. 3 shows a front view of the figurine with a second
selected indicia without specific astrological indications;
[0013] FIG. 4 shows a front view of the figurine with the second
selected indicia without specific astrological indications;
[0014] FIG. 5 shows a rear view of the figurine with the second
selected indicia without specific astrological indications;
[0015] FIG. 6 shows a cross sectional view 6-6 from FIG. 3 of the
figurine specifically showing the means for selectable audio
recording disposed within the torso portion of the doll;
[0016] FIG. 7 shows a close up perspective view of the base and
cover assembled in a assembled and locked state with the first
selected indicia or selected photo disposed therebetween;
[0017] FIG. 8 shows an exploded perspective view of the cover, the
first selected indicia or selected photo, and the base;
[0018] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the cover;
[0019] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the base;
[0020] FIG. 11 shows a front view of the cover;
[0021] FIG. 12 shows a front view of the base;
[0022] FIG. 13 shows cross section 13-13 from FIG. 7 detailing out
the cover, first selected indicia or selected photo, and base;
[0023] FIG. 14 shows exploded view 14-14 from FIG. 13 detailing out
the removable engagement between the cover outer periphery and the
base surrounding sidewall opening, with the first selected indicia
disposed therebetween;
[0024] FIG. 15 shows a close-up of the doll head portion with the
tool being received into the key slot of the cover being prepared
for separation of the cover and the base for removal/replacement of
the first selected indicia or selected photo;
[0025] FIG. 16 shows a close-up of the doll head portion with the
tool being used to effectuate separation of the cover and the base
for removal/replacement of the first selected indicia or selected
photo;
[0026] FIG. 17 shows a front view of the means for selectable audio
recording of the audio module assembly;
[0027] FIG. 18 shows a side view of the means for selectable audio
recording of the audio module assembly;
[0028] FIG. 19 shows a rear view of the means for selectable audio
recording of the audio module assembly;
[0029] FIG. 20 shows a schematic diagram of the power supply of the
audio module assembly;
[0030] FIG. 21 shows a summary block diagram schematic of the audio
module assembly;
[0031] FIG. 22 shows a first portion of the detailed diagram
schematic of the audio module assembly; and
[0032] FIG. 23 shows a second portion of the detailed diagram
schematic of the audio module assembly.
REFERENCE NUMBERS IN DRAWINGS
[0033] 30 Figurine [0034] 32 Doll [0035] 34 Head portion of doll 32
[0036] 36 Torso portion of doll 32 [0037] 38 Base [0038] 39 Bottom
portion of base 38 [0039] 40 Surrounding sidewall of base 38 [0040]
41 Diameter of opening 42 [0041] 42 Opening of surrounding sidewall
40 [0042] 43 Distance or size of opening 42 of surrounding sidewall
40 [0043] 44 First interior portion of base 38 [0044] 46 First
substantially planar selected indicia [0045] 48 Selected
picture/photo image [0046] 50 Cover [0047] 52 Outer peripheral
portion of cover 50 [0048] 53 Outer periphery of cover 50 [0049] 54
Distance or size of outer periphery 53 of cover 50 [0050] 55
Diameter of cover 50 [0051] 56 Removable engagement of opening 42
and outer peripheral portion 52 [0052] 58 First side of cover 50
[0053] 59 Angle between tool 70 and first side 58 of the cover 50
[0054] 60 Second side of cover 50 [0055] 62 Substantially concave
profile of cover 50 [0056] 64 Second interior portion of cover 50
[0057] 66 Assembled and locked state for base 38 and cover 50
[0058] 68 Substantially rigid chamber for assembled 66 base 38 and
cover 50 [0059] 70 Tool [0060] 72 Separation of base 38 and cover
50 into a disassembled and unlocked state [0061] 74 Remove and
replace of the first selected indicia 46 or picture 48 [0062] 76
Interference fit of removable engagement 56 [0063] 78 Key slot in
cover 50 [0064] 80 Disengaging of cover 50 from base 38 by the tool
70 to disengage removable engagement 56 [0065] 82 Apertures
therethrough in base 38 [0066] 84 Stitching utilizing apertures 82
[0067] 86 Selected second indicia [0068] 88 Specific astrological
indications [0069] 90 Positioning the cover 50 second side 60 to
face the selected picture/photo image 48 [0070] 92 Pressing the
cover 50 toward the base 38 [0071] 298 Means for a selectable audio
recording [0072] 300 Audio module assembly [0073] 302 Housing for
the audio module 300 [0074] 304 Power supply for the audio module
300 [0075] 305 Batteries for the power supply 304 [0076] 306
Microphone for the audio module 300 [0077] 308 Actuation control
for the audio module 300 [0078] 310 Mode selector switch for the
audio module 300 [0079] 312 Function selector switch for the audio
module 300 [0080] 314 Digital recorder integrated circuit IC chip
for the audio module 300 [0081] 316 LED indicator for the audio
module 300 [0082] 318 Output speaker for the audio module 300
[0083] 320 Electrical communication for the power supply 304 [0084]
322 Digital ground for the audio module 300 [0085] 324 Analog
ground for the audio module 300 [0086] 326 Speaker positive (+)
ground for the audio module 300 [0087] 328 Speaker negative (-)
ground for the audio module 300 [0088] 330 1 kilo ohm resister for
LED 316 [0089] 332 0.1 micro farad capacitor to ground 322 for IC
chip 314 reset [0090] 334 Voltage supply for IC chip 314 and LED
316 [0091] 336 Voltage supply for microphone 306 and IC chip 314
[0092] 338 Voltage supply for speaker 318 and IC chip 314 [0093]
340 0.1 micro farad capacitor for voltage supply 334 [0094] 342 4.7
micro farad capacitor for voltage supply 334 [0095] 344 0.1 micro
farad capacitor for voltage supply 336 [0096] 346 4.7 micro farad
capacitor for voltage supply 336 [0097] 348 0.1 micro farad
capacitor for voltage supply 338 for speaker positive (+) [0098]
350 4.7 micro farad capacitor for voltage supply 338 for speaker
positive (+) [0099] 352 0.1 micro farad capacitor for voltage
supply 338 for speaker negative (-) [0100] 354 4.7 micro farad
capacitor for voltage supply 338 for speaker negative (-) [0101]
356 8 kilo ohm resister for oscillator resister for IC chip 314
timing duration [0102] 358 4.7 micro farad capacitor for microphone
306 gain (preamplifier) [0103] 360 4.7 kilo ohm resister for
voltage 336 control of the microphone 306 [0104] 362 4.7 kilo ohm
resister for voltage 336 control of the microphone 306 [0105] 364
4.7 kilo ohm resister for voltage switch combination 308, 310, and
312 controls to record pin 24 of the IC chip 314 to supply
microphone 306 power only when audio module assembly 300 is in
record mode to save power at other times [0106] 366 4.7 micro farad
capacitor voltage supply 336 to ground 324 [0107] 368 0.1 micro
farad capacitor between microphone 306 and mic + pin 10 on IC chip
314 [0108] 370 0.1 micro farad capacitor microphone 306 and mic -
pin 11 on IC chip 314 [0109] 400 Disposing of electronic audio
module 300 in torso portion 36 [0110] 402 Squeezing
actuation/de-actuation control 308 exterior to the torso portion 36
[0111] 404 Removing the torso portion 36 from the electronic audio
module 300
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0112] With reference to FIG. 1 shown is a front view of the
figurine 30 in the form of a doll 32 with a second selected indicia
86 having specific astrological indications 88, FIG. 2 shows a side
view of the figurine 30 with the second selected indicia 86 having
specific astrological indications 88, and FIG. 3 shows a front view
of the figurine 30 with a second selected indicia 86 without
specific astrological indications 88. Further, continuing FIG. 4
shows a front view of the figurine 30 with the second selected
indicia 86 without specific astrological indications 88, FIG. 5
shows a rear view of the figurine 30 with the second selected
indicia 86 without specific astrological indications 88, and FIG. 6
shows a cross sectional view 6-6 from FIG. 3 of the figurine 30
specifically showing the means 298 for selectable audio recording
disposed within the torso portion 36 of the doll 32.
[0113] Next, FIG. 7 shows a close up perspective view of the base
38 and cover 50 assembled in a assembled and locked state 66 with
the first selected indicia 46 or selected photo 48 disposed
therebetween, FIG. 8 shows an exploded perspective view of the
cover 50, the first selected indicia 46 or selected photo 48, and
the base 38, and FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the cover 50.
Moving onward, FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of the base 38,
FIG. 11 shows a front view of the cover 50, and FIG. 12 shows a
front view of the base 38. Yet further, FIG. 13 shows cross section
13-13 from FIG. 7 detailing out the cover 50, the first selected
indicia 46 or selected photo 48, and base 38, FIG. 14 shows
exploded view 14-14 from FIG. 13 detailing out the removable
engagement 56 between the cover 50 outer periphery 53 and the base
38 surrounding sidewall 40 opening 42, with the first selected
indicia 46 disposed therebetween, and FIG. 15 shows a close-up of
the doll 32 head portion 34 with the tool 70 being received into
the key slot 78 of the cover 50 being prepared for separation or
disengagement 80 of the cover 50 and the base 38 for
removal/replacement 74 of the first selected indicia 46 or selected
photo 48.
[0114] Continuing, FIG. 16 shows a close-up of the doll 32 head
portion 34 with the tool 70 being used to effectuate separation or
disengagement 80 of the cover 50 and the base 38 for
removal/replacement 74 of the first selected indicia 46 or selected
photo 48, FIG. 17 shows a front view of the means 298 for
selectable audio recording of the audio module assembly 300, and
FIG. 18 shows a side view of the means 298 for selectable audio
recording of the audio module assembly 300. Further, FIG. 19 shows
a rear view of the means 298 for selectable audio recording of the
audio module assembly 300, FIG. 20 shows a schematic diagram of the
power supply 304 of the audio module assembly 300, and FIG. 21
shows a summary block diagram schematic of the audio module
assembly 300. Next, FIG. 22 shows a first portion of the detailed
diagram schematic of the audio module assembly 300 and FIG. 23
shows a second portion of the detailed diagram schematic of the
audio module assembly 300.
[0115] With initial reference to FIGS. 1-16, the present invention
of the figurine 30 that is capable of selectable personalization
includes a doll 32 having a head portion 34 and a torso portion 36
and further includes a substantially rigid base 38 that is disposed
adjacent to the head portion 34, with the base 38 including a
surrounding sidewall 40 extending from a bottom portion 39 to an
opening 42. The bottom portion 39 and sidewall 40 of the base 38
defining a first interior portion 44 that is sized and configured
to receive a first substantially planar selected indicia 46, as
detailed in FIGS. 8 and 13-17. Also included in the figurine 30 is
a substantially rigid transparent cover 50 including an outer
peripheral portion 52 or more specifically a outer periphery 53
that is adapted to be removably engaged 56 from the sidewall 40
opening 42. The cover 50 having a first side 58 and a second side
60, the second side 60 forming a substantially concave profile 62
to define a second interior portion 64, with the second side 60
adjacent to the base 38 when the outer peripheral portion 52 or
more specifically the outer periphery 53 and the opening 42 are
manually engaged 56.
[0116] The manual engagement 56 forming an assembled and locked
state 66 for the base 38 and cover 50, wherein the first interior
portion 44 and the second interior portion 64 form a substantially
rigid chamber 68 for the first planar selected indicia 46 to be
substantially protectively and securely displayed within the
substantially rigid chamber 68, as best shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 13,
and 14. The substantially rigid chamber 68 is sized and configured
such that the first selected indicia 46 does not have to be
attached to the base 38 or the cover 50 to help prevent damage to
the selected indicia 46, as best shown in FIG. 14. As the removable
engagement 56 between the base 38 opening 42 and the cover 50
peripheral portion 52 or cover 50 outer periphery 53 is operational
to prevent unauthorized removal of the selected first indicia 46
from the substantially rigid chamber 68 by requiring an independent
tool 70 to separate the base 38 and the cover 50 into a
disassembled unlocked state 72 to remove or replace 74 the first
selected indicia 46 to further enhance security of the assembled
state 66, as best shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. Furthermore the first
selected indicia 46 can be a selected photograph 48, wherein the
substantially rigid chamber 68 is sized and configured to
accommodate the selected photograph 48 that is positioned to be
displayed through said cover 50 as best shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 13,
and 14, by allowing the selected photo 48 to loosely float within
the chamber 68 so as to not damage the selected photo 48, by
clamping or crimping upon it, in addition to not requiring any
means for adhering the selected photo 48 to either the cover 50 to
the base 38.
[0117] The preferred materials of construction for the doll 32 are
a conventional fabric outer cover with a stuffing or filling that
is non allergic and mold resistant as is typical for doll 32
construction materials. The preferred materials of construction for
the base 38 can be a plastic that is either transparent or opaque,
or any other material that is waterproof. The preferred materials
for the cover 50 must of necessity be transparent and waterproof,
however, outside of that any material would be acceptable. To
further optionally have the selectable personalization the doll 32
could further comprise a selected second indicia 86 that is
disposed adjacent to the torso portion 36 to further enhance the
personalization effect of the figurine by initiating a theme such
as selected specific astrological indications 88, as shown in FIGS.
1 and 2, however, other themes not related to astrology could be
used also as shown in FIGS. 3-5.
[0118] Further to the removable engagement 56 it is preferred to be
an interference fit 76, as best shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, wherein
the base 38 opening 42 has a periphery size 43, see FIG. 10, that
is less than a cover 50 outer periphery size 54, see FIG. 9, when
both the base 38 opening 42 and the cover 50 outer periphery 53 are
in the disassembled unlocked state 72 as shown in FIGS. 8-12. Note
that the amount of interference fit 76 which is the amount that the
periphery size 43 is smaller than the periphery size 54 is
dependent upon the materials used for the base 38 and cover 50,
however, typically being about a 0.2% interference fit 76, wherein
the cover 50 periphery distance 54 resulting in a diameter 55 that
is about 0.2% (1.002 times) larger than the base 38 opening
distance 43 resulting in a diameter 41, being for a typical
transparent plastic material, however, as previously stated the
amount of interference fit 76 could be less or more than 0.2%
depending upon the materials used. The interference fit 76 is
preferred due to there being no need for messy adhesives or other
types of ancillary fasteners such as hook and loop type, snaps,
elastics, and the like.
[0119] Continuing, the cover 50 outer peripheral portion 52 further
includes a key slot 78, best shown in FIGS. 8, 9, and 11 that is
sized and configured to receive the tool 70, as best shown in FIGS.
15 and 16, with the key slot 78 being operational to facilitate the
tool 70 disengaging the removable engagement 56 to place the base
38 and the cover 50 into the disassembled unlocked state 72, again
as best shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, thus facilitating the
removal/replacement 74 of the first selected indicia 46 or selected
photo 48. The tool 70 is preferably a small diameter rigid rod such
as a small nail. Thus this removal/replacement 74 of the first
selected indicia 46 or selected photo 48 has some level of security
protecting against unauthorized removal of the selected photo for
instance from the base 38 and cover 50 assembly 66, for example in
the case of a small child not possessing the tool 70 it would be
difficult for the child to remove the selected photo 48 and either
damage it or lose it. The preferred method of placing the base 38
adjacent to the head portion 34 is accomplished by a plurality of
apertures 82 in the base 38, best shown in FIGS. 7, 8, 10, 12, and
13 that are stitched 84 therethrough to the head portion 34, with
the stitching best shown in FIGS. 2 and 4.
[0120] As an enhancing option to the selectable personalization the
figurine 30 can further optionally comprise a means 298 for a
selectable audio recording and playback to further enhance the
personalization effect of said figurine by allowing a selected
audio recording to be made and played back by a user of the
figurine 30, best shown in FIGS. 17-23 for the means 298 for a
selectable audio recording and playback and where the means 298 for
selectable audio recording and playback is disposed within the
torso portion 36 as shown in FIG. 6. Further, the means 298 for
selectable audio recording and playback is preferably an electronic
audio module 300, as best shown in FIGS. 17-23, wherein the
electronic audio module 300 is preferably disposed 400 within the
torso portion 36, as best shown in FIG. 6. In controlling the
ability of a child for instance to playback only a selected audio
recording versus the ability of the user to erase and re-record
another selected audio recording, unique positioning of the
electronic voice module 300 controls was designed such that the
electronic audio module 300 is sized and configured such that an
actuation/de-actuation control 308 is a larger high movement
button, as best shown in FIGS. 6, 17, and 18, that is operable
exterior 402 to the torso portion 36 by merely squeezing 402 the
torso portion 36 for the purpose of audio playback operation as
shown in FIGS. 17, 18, 21, and 22 for the electronic voice module
300 itself for the user operation 402 in FIG. 6.
[0121] Continuing in this same area, the electronic audio module
300 is sized and configured such that an erase control 310 and a
record control 312 are only operable by removing the torso portion
404 from the audio module 300 housing 302 to further prevent
inadvertent erase and re-record of prior the selected audio
recording being made. This is accomplished by sizing and
configuring the erase control 310 and the record control 312 to be
small recessed controls disposed on the back of the housing 302 as
best shown in FIG. 19, thus preventing inadvertent erasing or
recording without intentionally removing the audio module 300, by
at least exposing the housing back side as shown in FIG. 19 for the
user to gain access to the controls 310 and 312, as best shown in
FIG. 6, which incidentally allows use of control 308 through the
torso portion 36.
[0122] Further in detailing out the specifics of the audio module
300 and in referring specifically to FIGS. 17-23 and in particular
FIGS. 20-23, the audio module 300 includes a programmable
integrated circuit chip 314, the actuation/de-actuation 308, erase
310, and record 312 controls, a microphone 306, a speaker 318, and
a power supply 304 all contained within a common housing 302. The
chip 314 is preferably a Winbond Electronics Corp. multi message
single chip for voice record and playback devices model number
ISD17120 or substantial equivalent as best shown in FIG. 22,
further the programmable integrated circuit chip 314 is desirably
capable of at least two hundred and forty (240) seconds selected
audio record time, allowing for a more unique and personal audio
message to be recorded than is usually available of this type of
chip. The power supply is preferably a group of three (3) size AA
batteries connected in series 305 providing power at voltage supply
334, 336, and 338 utilizing separate electrical communication lines
to minimize electrical noise as indicated by electrical
communication 320 as best shown in FIGS. 20, 22, and 23. In
addition, to minimize the electrical noise the grounds 322, 324,
326, and 328 are also using separate electrical communication lines
indicated by electrical communication 320 as best shown in FIG. 20,
22, and 23. Further, on the electrolet microphone 306 the
actuation/de-actuation control 308 is designed to only have the
ground power 324 in electrical communication with the microphone
306 when the microphone is needed for the record mode, thus saving
battery 305 power when the microphone 306 is not needed, as best
shown in FIGS. 21 and 22. The speaker 318 can be either an eight
(8) or sixteen (16) ohm type with the LED 316 being of a
conventional type for this application.
[0123] The figurine 30 can also be supplied in kit form that is
capable of selectable personalization that includes a doll 32, the
base 38, cover 50, tool 70, electronic audio module 300, and second
selected indicia 86, all as previously described. The kit can also
include a pattern sheet emphasize a particular theme especially
related to the second selected indicia 86, the pattern sheet for
example could mimic FIGS. 1 and 2 for showing placement and
orientation for the second selected indicia 86 with an astrological
theme 88 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, however, many other themes
could exist for the second selected indicia 86 such as military,
various holiday related, sports activities, careers, outer space,
or any other interests that a particular individual may have. This
also can be in conjunction with the selected audio recording that
can for instance match the person in the selected photo 48, with
this being where the set of operating instructions comes in to help
give the user ideas on how to match the selected photo with the
selected audio recording, i.e. a specific audio recording with a
specific astrological sign. Also, a user could use their own photo
48 with the figurine 30 and have a recording of their choice to
create a twin aspect of the figurine 30 to themselves.
METHOD OF USE
[0124] Referring in particular to FIGS. 1-8, and 13-19, a method
for using a figurine 30 that is capable of selectable
personalization is disclosed, comprising the steps of firstly
providing a doll 32 including a head portion 34 and a torso portion
36, said doll also includes a substantially rigid base 38, a cover
50, an electronic audio module 300, a selected second indicia 86, a
pattern sheet adapted to indicate a position of the selected second
indicia 86 relative to the torso portion 36, a tool 70, and
operating instructions for use of the tool and said electronic
audio module all as previously described. Secondly, a step of
grasping the tool 70, as best shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, and thirdly
inserting the tool 70 into the key slot 78 and moving the tool 70
to be at an obtuse angle 59 in relation to the cover 50 first side
58, wherein the tool 70 is operational for placing the cover 50 and
base 38 into the disassembled unlocked state 72, again as best
shown in FIGS. 16 and 17.
[0125] Continuing, a forth step of selecting a photo 48 and a fifth
step of placing the photo 48 into the first interior portion 44
image side up, as best shown in FIG. 8, next a sixth step of
grasping the cover 50 and a seventh step of positioning the cover
50 second side 60 to face the photo 48 image side, again as best
shown in FIG. 8. Further, an eighth step of pressing the cover 50
manually toward the base 38 such that the cover 50 outer peripheral
portion 52 or more specifically the cover outer periphery 53
engages 56 the base 38 opening 42 forming an assembled and locked
state 66 for the base 38 and the cover 50, resulting in the
selected photo 48 being operationally protectively and securely
displayed through said cover 50, as best shown in FIG. 7.
[0126] Next, on the ninth step of removing the torso portion 404
from around electronic audio module 300 housing 302 for access to
said actuation/de-actuation 308, record 312, and erase 310
controls, in initially referring to FIG. 6 for removal of the audio
module 300 from the torso portion 36, then referring to FIGS. 17-19
for placement and operation of the controls 308, 310, and 312 in
relation to the housing 304, in also referring to the schematics in
FIGS. 21-23. Next, a tenth step of moving the erase control 310 to
off, the record control 312 to record, actuating the actuation
control 308 and a eleven step of speaking into the microphone 306
to make an audio recording for up to about two hundred and forty
(240) seconds and then de-actuating said actuation/de-actuation
control 308 and moving the record control 312 to a play
position.
[0127] An optional further step of sizing the selected photo 48 to
be received in the first interior portion 44 by using the cover 50
outer peripheral portion 52 or periphery 53, in other words the
diameter 55, see FIG. 11, as a template, wherein the photo 48 is
sized at about a one-eighth (1/8) inch less that the outer
periphery 53, such that the photo resides in the chamber 68 as best
shown in FIG. 14. Further optionally, wherein the second step
through the eighth step are sequentially repeated to replace the
selected photo with another selected photo. In addition, an
optional further step of confirming the audio recording by
actuating the actuation/de-actuation control 308 and listening to
the audio recording playback through the speaker 318. Continuing, a
further optional series of steps of moving the erase control 310 to
on and actuating the actuation/de-actuation control 308 and then
sequentially repeating the ninth step through eleventh step to
record a new selected audio recording.
CONCLUSION
[0128] Accordingly, the present invention of a figurine with
selectable audio and visual elements 30 has been described with
some degree of particularity directed to the embodiment(s) of the
present invention. It should be appreciated, though; that the
present invention is defined by the following claims construed in
light of the prior art so modifications or changes may be made to
the exemplary embodiment(s) of the present invention without
departing from the inventive concepts contained therein.
* * * * *