U.S. patent application number 13/731758 was filed with the patent office on 2013-07-04 for convertible toy, pillow, and blanket apparatus and associated method of use.
This patent application is currently assigned to SMOOT BROTHERS IP HOLDING COMPANY, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Smoot Brothers IP Holding Company, LLC. Invention is credited to Jacob C. Smoot, Reid S. Smoot.
Application Number | 20130171906 13/731758 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47934559 |
Filed Date | 2013-07-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130171906 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Smoot; Jacob C. ; et
al. |
July 4, 2013 |
CONVERTIBLE TOY, PILLOW, AND BLANKET APPARATUS AND ASSOCIATED
METHOD OF USE
Abstract
A method for converting a toy figure includes providing a toy
figure including a flexible body, an extremity, and a blanket. The
flexible body in the first configuration includes a first surface
defining a first internal cavity. A second surface substantially
opposing the first surface defines an exterior surface of the
flexible body. The extremity is coupled to and extends from the
second surface of the flexible body and is external to the first
internal cavity. The blanket is positioned within the first
interior cavity. The method includes inverting the flexible body
from the first configuration to a second configuration where the
second surface defines a second internal cavity and the first
surface defining an exterior surface of the flexible body. In the
second configuration, the extremity is positioned within the second
internal cavity and substantially the entire blanket is external to
the second internal cavity in the second configuration.
Inventors: |
Smoot; Jacob C.; (Kaysville,
UT) ; Smoot; Reid S.; (Kaysville, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Smoot Brothers IP Holding Company, LLC; |
West Bountiful |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
SMOOT BROTHERS IP HOLDING COMPANY,
LLC
West Bountiful
UT
|
Family ID: |
47934559 |
Appl. No.: |
13/731758 |
Filed: |
December 31, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61581987 |
Dec 30, 2011 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
446/73 ;
29/401.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 9/0207 20130101;
A63H 3/36 20130101; A63H 3/02 20130101; A47G 9/1045 20130101; Y10T
29/49716 20150115; A63H 3/003 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
446/73 ;
29/401.1 |
International
Class: |
A63H 3/36 20060101
A63H003/36 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
May 8, 2012 |
CN |
201210140542X |
May 8, 2012 |
CN |
2012202029157 |
Claims
1. A method comprising: providing a soft toy figure in a first
configuration, the soft toy figure comprising; a flexible body in a
first configuration comprising a first surface defining a first
internal cavity, the first surface defining an interior surface of
the flexible body and a second surface substantially opposing the
first surface defining an exterior surface of the flexible body, at
least one extremity coupled to and extending from the second
surface of the flexible body, the at least one extremity external
to the first internal cavity; and a blanket positioned within the
first interior cavity; and inverting the flexible body from the
first configuration to a second configuration wherein the second
surface defines a second internal cavity, the second surface
defining an interior surface of the flexible body and the first
surface defining an exterior surface of the flexible body, the at
least one extremity positioned within the second internal cavity,
and substantially all of the blanket external to the second
internal cavity.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the soft toy figure in the first
configuration further comprises a coupling mechanism that removably
engages substantially opposite sides of the flexible body to fold
or compress the toy figure, the method further comprising releasing
the coupling mechanism.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising positioning at least
one of the at least one extremities within the second internal
cavity.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the flexible body comprises an
opening through which, depending on a configuration, the first
internal cavity and the second internal cavity are accessible.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein the soft toy figure further
comprises a closure mechanism, the closure mechanism releasably
maintaining the opening in a substantially closed position.
6. The method of claim 4, wherein the at least one extremities
comprises a closure extremity, the closure extremity at least
partially covering the opening when in a closed position.
7. The method of claim 6, wherein the at least one extremity
comprises a plurality of extremities and wherein all of the
plurality of extremities excepting the closure extremity are
positioned within the second internal cavity when the toy figure is
in the second configuration.
8. A toy figure comprising: a flexible body invertible between a
first configuration and a second configuration, wherein in the
first configuration the flexible body comprises a first surface
defining a first internal cavity, the first surface defining an
interior surface of the flexible body and a second surface
substantially opposing the first surface defining an exterior
surface of the flexible body, and in the second configuration the
second surface defines a second internal cavity, the second surface
defining an interior surface of the flexible body and the first
surface defining an exterior surface of the flexible body; at least
one extremity coupled to and extending from the second surface of
the flexible body, wherein in the first configuration the at least
one extremity is external to the first internal cavity and in the
second configuration the at least one extremity is positioned
within the second internal cavity; and a blanket coupled to and
extending from the first surface of the flexible body, wherein in
the first configuration the blanket is positioned within the first
internal cavity and in the second configuration substantially all
of the blanket is external to the second internal cavity.
9. The toy figure of claim 8, wherein the flexible body comprises
an opening through which, depending on the configuration, the first
internal cavity and the second internal cavity are accessible.
10. The toy figure of claim 9, further comprising a closure
mechanism, the closure mechanism releasably maintaining the opening
in a substantially closed position.
11. The toy figure of claim 9, wherein the at least one extremity
comprises a closure extremity, the closure extremity at least
partially covering the opening when in a closed position.
12. The toy figure of claim 8, further comprising a coupling
mechanism for releasably engaging substantially opposite sides of
the flexible body to fold or compress the flexible body.
13. The toy figure of claim 8, wherein the at least one extremity
comprises one or more of a head, a tail, an arm, a leg, a wing, a
wheel, an antler, a horn, and an antenna.
14. The toy figure of claim 8, wherein the toy figure resembles at
least one of an animal, a vehicle, an imaginary creature, and a
doll.
15. The toy figure of claim 8, wherein the flexible body comprises
a top layer and a bottom layer, and wherein in the first
configuration the first internal cavity is defined between the top
layer and the bottom layer.
16. A toy figure comprising: a flexible body invertible between a
first configuration and a second configuration, wherein in the
first configuration the flexible body comprises a first surface
defining a first internal cavity, the first surface defining an
interior surface of the flexible body and a second surface
substantially opposing the first surface defining an exterior
surface of the flexible body, and in the second configuration the
second surface defines a second internal cavity, the second surface
defining an interior surface of the flexible body and the first
surface defining an exterior surface of the flexible body; and a
blanket coupled to and extending from the first surface of the
flexible body, wherein in the first configuration the blanket is
positioned within the first internal cavity and in the second
configuration substantially all of the blanket is external to the
second internal cavity.
17. The toy figure of claim 16, further comprising at least one
extremity coupled to and extending from the second surface of the
flexible body, wherein in the first configuration the at least one
extremity is external to the first internal cavity and in the
second configuration the at least one extremity is positioned
within the second internal cavity.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 61/581,987, filed Dec. 30, 2011, Chinese
Patent Application No. 201210140542X, filed May 8, 2012, and
Chinese Patent Application No. 2012202029157, filed May 8, 2012,
which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates generally to children's toys and
playthings and relates more particularly to a convertible toy,
pillow, and blanket.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Toys, such as hard toys, soft toys (e.g., stuffed animals),
pillows, and blankets, are often favorite objects for young
children. Children may enjoy playing with toys and blankets in a
variety of activities. Additionally, children often enjoy cuddling
and carrying a toy (particularly a soft toy), pillow, and/or
blanket for comfort.
[0004] However, children can become emotionally attached to a toy
or blanket and may desire to have it with them at all times and in
all places. For example, children may demand their favorite toy,
pillow, or blanket before going to sleep for a nap or at night, or
to bring to a restaurant, a friend's house, or any other location
to which children may go. Such an emotional attachment to a toy or
blanket may result in a parent transporting a toy, pillow, and/or
blanket everywhere the child goes, which can be a burden. For
example, packing and unpacking multiple sleeping or play items can
be difficult, to say nothing of keeping track of them, even around
the house. Should a particularly favorite toy, blanket, or pillow
be left behind or lost, large investments of emotion, time, and
money may be required to help the child overcome the loss and
return to his normal behavioral pattern.
[0005] Attempts have been made to make it easier to travel with a
toy, pillow, and blanket, as well as to keep track of one or both.
Previous attempts have been made to provide toys which may be used
as pillows with extractable blankets. However, such toys lose their
padding and/or their pillow capability when the blanket is removed
for use. For example, the cavity or pocket that originally held the
blanket is no longer padded after the blanket is removed. Thus, a
child may be left with a choice between using the toy as a pillow
or a blanket, but may not be able to use it as both a pillow and a
blanket at the same time.
SUMMARY
[0006] From the foregoing discussion, it should be apparent that a
need exists for an apparatus, system, and method that allow for a
child to use a soft toy as a pillow and blanket at the same time.
Beneficially, such an apparatus, system, and method would provide
for a pleasing soft toy for use by a child.
[0007] The subject matter of the present disclosure has been
developed in response to the present state of the art, and in
particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that
have not yet been fully solved by currently available soft toys or
convertible pillows and blankets. Accordingly, the subject matter
of the present disclosure has been developed to provide a
convertible toy, pillow, and blanket apparatus and associated
method of use that overcome many or all of the above-discussed
shortcomings in the art.
[0008] A method of the present disclosure is presented for
converting a soft toy into at least one of a pillow and blanket. In
one embodiment, the method includes providing a soft toy figure
including a flexible body, at least one extremity, and a blanket.
The flexible body in the first configuration may include a first
surface defining a first internal cavity. In one embodiment, the
first surface defines an interior surface of the flexible body and
a second surface substantially opposing the first surface defines
an exterior surface of the flexible body. The at least one
extremity may be coupled to and extend from the second surface of
the flexible body. In one embodiment, the at least one extremity is
external to the first internal cavity. The blanket may be
positioned within the first interior cavity.
[0009] In one embodiment, the method further includes inverting the
flexible body from the first configuration to a second
configuration wherein the second surface defines a second internal
cavity. In one embodiment, the second surface defines an interior
surface of the flexible body and the first surface defining an
exterior surface of the flexible body in the second configuration.
In one embodiment, the at least one extremity is positioned within
the second internal cavity and substantially all of the blanket
external to the second internal cavity in the second
configuration.
[0010] In a further embodiment, the soft toy figure in the first
mode further includes a coupling mechanism that removably engages
substantially opposite sides of the flexible body to fold or
compress the toy figure. In yet another embodiment, the method
further includes releasing the coupling mechanism. In one
embodiment, the method further includes positioning at least one of
the at least one extremities within the second internal cavity. In
a further embodiment, the method includes removing the blanket from
the first interior cavity.
[0011] In yet another embodiment, the flexible body includes an
opening through which, depending on a current configuration, the
first internal cavity and the second internal cavity are
accessible. In a further embodiment, the soft toy figure further
includes a closure mechanism. The closure mechanism may be
releasable and may maintain the opening in a substantially closed
position. In one embodiment, the at least one extremity includes a
closure extremity, the closure extremity at least partially
covering the opening when in a closed position. In a further
embodiment, the at least one extremity includes a plurality of
extremities. In one embodiment, all of the pluralities of
extremities excepting the closure extremity are positioned within
the second internal cavity when the toy figure is in the second
configuration.
[0012] A toy figure is also disclosed herein. In one embodiment,
the toy figure includes a flexible body, at least one extremity,
and a blanket. In one embodiment, the flexible body is invertible
between a first configuration and as second configuration.
According to a further embodiment, in the first configuration the
flexible body includes a first surface defining a first internal
cavity. The first surface may define an interior surface of the
flexible body and a second surface substantially opposing the first
surface may define an exterior surface of the flexible body. In one
embodiment, in the second configuration the second surface defines
a second internal cavity. The second surface may define an interior
surface of the flexible body and the first surface may define an
exterior surface of the flexible body.
[0013] According to one embodiment, the at least one extremity is
coupled to and extends from the second surface of the flexible
body. In the first configuration the at least one extremity may be
external to the first internal cavity and in the second
configuration the at least one extremity may be positioned within
the second internal cavity. According to one embodiment, the
blanket is coupled to and extends from the first surface of the
flexible body. In the first configuration the blanket may be
positioned within the first internal cavity and in the second
configuration substantially all of the blanket may be external to
the second internal cavity.
[0014] According to one embodiment, the flexible body includes an
opening through which, depending on the configuration, the first
internal cavity and the second internal cavity are accessible. In a
further embodiment, the toy figure includes a closure mechanism
that releasably maintains the opening in a substantially closed
position. In yet another embodiment, the at least one extremity
includes a closure extremity that at least partially covers the
opening when in a closed position. In one embodiment, the toy
figure includes a coupling mechanism for releasably engaging
substantially opposite sides of the hollow flexible body to fold or
compress the flexible body.
[0015] In a further embodiment, the at least one extremity
comprises one or more of a head, a tail, an arm, a leg, a wing, a
wheel, an antler, a horn, and an antenna. In yet another
embodiment, the toy figure resembles at least one of an animal, a
vehicle, an imaginary creature, and a doll.
[0016] In one embodiment, the flexible body includes a top layer
and a bottom layer. In the first configuration the first internal
cavity may be defined between the top layer and the bottom layer.
In a further embodiment, the flexible body is integrally formed
from a same piece of material as the blanket. In one embodiment,
the blanket is removably attached to the flexible body. In yet
another embodiment, at least one of the at least one extremity
includes a soft filling.
[0017] Reference throughout this specification to features,
advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the
features and advantages that may be realized with the subject
matter of the present disclosure should be or are in any single
embodiment. Rather, language referring to the features and
advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature,
advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an
embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, discussion
of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout
this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same
embodiment.
[0018] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and
characteristics of the subject matter of the present disclosure may
be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One
skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention may
be practiced without one or more of the specific features or
advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances,
additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain
embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments.
[0019] These features and advantages of the subject matter of the
present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the
following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the
practice of the subject matter as set forth hereinafter.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] In order that the advantages of the present subject matter
will be readily understood, a more particular description of the
subject matter briefly described above will be rendered by
reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the
appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only
typical embodiments and are not therefore to be considered to be
limiting of its scope, the subject matter will be described and
explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of
the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0021] FIG. 1 is a side view illustrating one embodiment of a soft
toy of FIG. 1 in a toy figure configuration;
[0022] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the soft toy of FIG. 1 in the toy
figure configuration;
[0023] FIG. 3 is a bottom view illustrating one embodiment of the
soft toy of FIG. 1 in a pillow configuration;
[0024] FIG. 4 is a front view of the soft toy figure of FIG. 1
shown with a closure extremity in an open position;
[0025] FIG. 5 is a schematic flow chart diagram illustrating one
embodiment of a method for converting a soft toy from a toy figure
configuration to a pillow and blanket configuration;
[0026] FIG. 6 is a schematic flow chart diagram illustrating one
embodiment of a method for converting a soft toy between a toy
figure configuration, a pillow configuration, and a pillow and
blanket configuration;
[0027] FIG. 7 is a top plan view illustrating a soft toy in a
pillow and blanket configuration, according to one embodiment;
[0028] FIG. 8 is a top plan view illustrating a soft toy between a
pillow configuration and a pillow and blanket configuration with a
flexible body inverted from the configuration in FIG. 7, according
to one embodiment;
[0029] FIG. 9 is a side view illustrating inverting of a flexible
body of a soft toy, according to one embodiment;
[0030] FIG. 10 is a top plan view illustrating a soft toy in a
pillow and blanket configuration, according to one embodiment;
and
[0031] FIG. 11 is a top plan view illustrating a soft toy between a
pillow configuration and a pillow and blanket configuration,
according to one embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0032] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment,"
"an embodiment," or similar language means that a particular
feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with
the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment in accordance
with the present subject matter. Thus, appearances of the phrases
"in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," and similar language
throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all
refer to the same embodiment.
[0033] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or
characteristics within the present disclosure may be combined in
any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. In the following
description, numerous specific details are disclosed to provide a
thorough understanding of embodiments in accordance with the
present subject matter. One skilled in the relevant art will
recognize, however, that the present subject matter may be
practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with
other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other
instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not
shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the
invention.
[0034] In the above description, certain terms may be used such as
"up," "down," "upper," "lower," "horizontal," "vertical," "left,"
"right," and the like. These terms are used, where applicable, to
provide some clarity of description when dealing with relative
relationships. But, these terms are not intended to imply absolute
relationships, positions, and/or orientations. For example, with
respect to an object, an "upper" surface can become a "lower"
surface simply by turning the object over. Nevertheless, it is
still the same object. Further, the terms "including,"
"comprising," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but
not limited to" unless expressly specified otherwise. An enumerated
listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are
mutually exclusive and/or mutually inclusive, unless expressly
specified otherwise. The terms "a," "an," and "the" also refer to
"one or more" unless expressly specified otherwise.
[0035] Additionally, instances in this specification where one
element is "coupled" to another element can include direct and
indirect coupling. Direct coupling can be defined as one element
coupled to and in some contact with another element. Indirect
coupling can be defined as coupling between two elements not in
direct contact with each other, but having one or more additional
elements between the coupled elements. Further, as used herein,
securing one element to another element can include direct securing
and indirect securing. Additionally, as used herein, "adjacent"
does not necessarily denote contact. For example, one element can
be adjacent another element without being in contact with that
element.
[0036] The schematic flow chart diagrams included herein are
generally set forth as logical flow chart diagrams. As such, the
depicted order and labeled steps are indicative of one embodiment
of the presented method. Other steps and methods may be conceived
that are equivalent in function, logic, or effect to one or more
steps, or portions thereof, of the illustrated method.
Additionally, the format and symbols employed are provided to
explain the logical steps of the method and are understood not to
limit the scope of the method. Although various arrow types and
line types may be employed in the flow chart diagrams, they are
understood not to limit the scope of the corresponding method.
Indeed, some arrows or other connectors may be used to indicate
only the logical flow of the method. For instance, an arrow may
indicate a waiting or monitoring period of unspecified duration
between enumerated steps of the depicted method. Additionally, the
order in which a particular method occurs may or may not strictly
adhere to the order of the corresponding steps shown.
[0037] According to one embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a soft toy 100
includes a flexible body 102, which can be a hollow flexible body,
and a plurality of extremities, including extremities 104 and a
closure extremity 106. As shown in FIG. 1, the soft toy 100 is in a
toy figure configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, in the toy
figure configuration, the soft toy 100 forms a toy figure that
resembles a dog. For example, the soft toy 100 has a flexible body
102 with an outer appearance that resembles the body of a dog,
extremities 104 that resemble the legs and the tail of a dog, and a
closure extremity 106 resembling the head of a dog.
[0038] Although in the illustrated embodiment, the soft toy 100
resembles a dog in the toy figure configuration, in other
embodiments, the flexible body 102, extremities 104, and closure
extremity 106 may be formed to resemble any toy figure. In
exemplary embodiments, the soft toy 100 may resemble any animal,
vehicle, imaginary creature, doll, or the like when in the toy
figure configuration. More specifically, the soft toy 100 may be
configured with a flexible body 102, extremities 104, and closure
extremity 106 that make the soft toy 100 in a toy figure
configuration resemble any of various desired figures. In various
embodiments, the extremities 104 and/or closure extremity 106 may
include one or more of a head, a tail, an arm, a leg, a wing, a
wheel, an antler, a horn, an antenna, or the like. For example, in
one implementation, the soft toy 100 may include wheels in the
place of the legs of the dog to resemble an automobile instead of a
dog. In light of the present disclosure, one of skill in the art
will recognize that there can be considerable variation of the
flexible body 102 and extremities 104, 106 within the scope of the
present disclosure.
[0039] In one embodiment, the flexible body 102 is flexible and/or
soft. For example, the flexible body 102 may be formed of a soft
fabric or other material that is soft to the touch. Soft material
or fabric may be desirable in some embodiments because it may be
more conducive to touching or cuddling by a child, such as during
bed or nap time. Additionally, a flexible body 102 that is soft
and/or flexible may also allow the soft toy 100 to be used as a
pillow when in the toy figure configuration. For example, a child
may be able to rest his or her head comfortably on the flexible
body 102 in certain situations, such as while lying down or sitting
in a car seat, or the like. The soft nature of the soft toy 100, as
well as the soft toy's resemblance of a desirable creature or
figure, may be pleasing to a child.
[0040] In one embodiment, the flexible body 102 in a first
configuration substantially defines a first internal cavity (see
FIG. 4). The first internal cavity may be formed between one or
more layers of fabric of, or any other material that makes up, the
flexible body 102. In one embodiment, for example, the flexible
body 102 includes a first surface 110 (see FIGS. 4, 7, and 10) that
defines an interior surface that lines the inside of the first
internal cavity and a second surface 108 that defines an exterior
surface that lines the exterior of the flexible body 102 when the
soft toy 100 is in the toy figure configuration. In one embodiment,
the first surface 110 and second surface 108 may define opposite
sides of a piece of fabric. In one embodiment, the first surface
110 may include the surface of a first piece of fabric while the
second surface 108 may include the surface of a second piece of
fabric. The first piece of fabric and the second piece of fabric
may be the same or different types of material. In one embodiment,
the first surface 110 may be the surface of one material while the
second surface 108 is the surface of a different piece or different
type of material. In one embodiment, both the first surface 110 and
the second surface 108 include a soft or plush material. In one
embodiment, the flexible body 102 may include two pieces of fabric
secured together along respective edges with the first internal
cavity formed between the two pieces of fabric.
[0041] In one embodiment, a blanket (see, e.g., blanket 604 of FIG.
4) is storable within the first internal cavity of the flexible
body 102 when the soft toy 100 is in the toy figure configuration.
The blanket may provide padding for the flexible body 102, such
that the flexible body 102 is soft, has three-dimensional aspects,
and/or is pleasing to a child to touch, cuddle with, and/or use as
a pillow.
[0042] In one embodiment, the flexible body 102 is flexible enough
to be inverted. For example, the flexible body 102 may be turned
inside out such that the first surface 110 defines an exterior
surface of the flexible body 102 and the second surface 108 defines
an interior surface of the flexible body 102. In one embodiment,
the flexible body 102 forms the first internal cavity in a toy
figure configuration and may be inverted to form an inverted cavity
or second internal cavity in another configuration, such as a
pillow configuration, or a pillow and blanket configuration. In one
embodiment, when the flexible body 102 is inverted, the blanket 604
is positioned external to the second internal cavity, and thus is
no longer within a cavity of the flexible body 102 and is available
for use by a child. In one embodiment, when the flexible body 102
is inverted, one or more of the extremities 104 may be positioned
within the second internal cavity to provide padding for the
inverted flexible body 102 such that the inverted flexible body 102
may be used as a pillow. In varying embodiments, the closure
extremity 106 may or may not be positioned within the second
internal cavity to provide padding.
[0043] Generally, the extremities 104 are connected to the flexible
body 102. In one embodiment, the extremities 104, 106 are coupled
to and extend from the second surface 108 of the flexible body 102.
In one embodiment, the extremities 104 are connected to the
flexible body 102 such that they are visible from an exterior of
the flexible body 102 when the soft toy 100 is in the toy figure
configuration. In one embodiment, the extremities 104 are attached
to a second surface 108 or an exterior surface of the flexible body
102 when the soft toy is in the toy figure configuration. For
example, the extremities 104 may be formed integrally with the
flexible body 102 to form a one-piece monolithic construction, may
be sewn to the flexible body 102, or may be attached to the
flexible body 102 using any of various fasteners or fastening
techniques. For example, a button, hook-and-loop fasteners, or
another fastener may be used to permanently or removably attach the
extremities 104 to the flexible body 102.
[0044] In one embodiment, the extremities 104 are made from a soft
and/or flexible material. In one embodiment, the extremities 104
are made from the same type of material as a portion of the
flexible body 102. For example, both the extremities 104 and the
flexible body 102 may be made from a soft fabric. In one
embodiment, the extremities 104 are stuffed with a soft filling
material to give the extremities a three-dimensional shape.
[0045] The closure extremity 106 or extremities 104 may be used to
cover an opening to the cavity of the flexible body 102. The
opening may allow access to the first internal cavity or the second
internal cavity defined within the flexible body 102, depending on
the current configuration of the toy FIG. 100. For example, the
opening may allow for insertion and/or removal of the blanket when
desired. In one embodiment, the closure extremity 106 may be used
to at least partially cover the opening when the closure extremity
106 is in a closed position. For example, in FIG. 1, the soft toy
100 is depicted with the closure extremity 106 in a closed position
and with the opening being covered by the closure extremity and not
visible. The closure extremity 106 could be any type of extremity
that may provide a soft toy 100 with resemblance of a desired
creature, animal, car, or any other figure. For example, although
the closure extremity 106 resembles (e.g., is shaped like) a head,
in other embodiments, the closure extremity or extremities
resembles a tail, a leg, an arm, a wheel, a hood of a car, or the
like.
[0046] In some implementations, in addition to or in place of the
closure extremity 106, the opening includes a closure mechanism to
securely close and open (e.g., disallow or allow access to) the
opening. In other implementations, the opening does not include a
closure mechanism, such that only the closure extremity 106 closes
the opening by providing a covering for the opening. In at least
one embodiment, a soft toy 100 may include a closure mechanism
without a closure extremity 106.
[0047] FIG. 4 is a front view illustrating one embodiment of the
soft toy 100 with a closure extremity 106 and closure mechanism 304
in an open position, according to one embodiment. The soft toy 100
is depicted in a pillow configuration with the coupling mechanism
302 released. With the closure extremity 106 and closure mechanism
304 in an open position the opening 602 to the cavity and a blanket
604 within the first internal cavity inside the flexible body 102
are visible. In the depicted embodiment, the closure mechanism 304
includes a closure strap 304a having a hook portion and a loop
portion 304b on the flexible body 102 for receiving the hook
portion of the closure strap 304a. Thus, the hook portion on the
closure strap 304a and the loop portion 304b form a hook and loop
fastener. In other embodiments, the closure mechanism 304 may
include any sort of fasteners or fastening mechanism. For example,
other embodiments of closure mechanisms 304 may include buttons and
loops, press fit buttons, laces for tying, or any other
fasteners.
[0048] In the depicted embodiment, the closure mechanism 304 is
attached to the closure extremity 106. With the hook portion of the
closure strap 304a released from the loop portion 304b on the
flexible body 102, the closure extremity 106 is free to be pivoted
or moved from the opening to allow access to the first internal
cavity. In one embodiment, the closure extremity 106 includes a
loop portion 606 for receiving the hook portion of the closure
strap 304a. This may keep the hook portion of the closure strap
304a from collecting lint or scratching a child.
[0049] In one embodiment, a loop portion 606 for receiving the hook
portion of the closure strap 304a may provide for a more
comfortable soft toy 100 for playing, sleeping, and or cuddling.
For example, rough or uncomfortable portions of a hook and loop
fastener may be received by or secured to the loop portion 606 on
the extremity 106 to place the closure strap 304a in a storage
position while the extremity 106 is not attached to the loop
portion 304b, such that a child is not scratched or made
uncomfortable by contact or pressure with a hook portion of a hook
and loop fastener. In one embodiment, each hook portion of any hook
and loop fastener on the soft toy 100 may be provided with a
mechanism for receiving the hook portion when not in a closed
position. This may help maintain the soft toy 100 in a soft and
comfortable state regardless of the configuration of the soft toy
100.
[0050] In one embodiment, the blanket 604 may be removed through
the opening 602 from the first internal cavity formed by the
flexible body 102 in a first mode. Additionally or alternatively,
the flexible body 102 may be inverted to place the soft toy 100 in
a different configuration, such as a second configuration, or a
pillow and blanket configuration. In one embodiment, the flexible
body 102 may be inverted by gripping the flexible body 102 near the
opening and pulling on the blanket 604 which may be attached to a
first surface 110 internal to the first internal cavity. Inverting
the flexible body 102 in this manner pulls the flexible body 102
inside out.
[0051] Although the soft toy 100 of FIGS. 1-4 are depicted with a
closure extremity 106, in some embodiments, the soft toy 100 may
not include a closure extremity. For example, in some embodiments,
the soft toy 100 includes only a fastener or other mechanism to
close the opening instead of a closure extremity. For example, the
closure mechanism 304 may span an opening and retain the opening in
a substantially closed position when the closure mechanism 304 is
in a closed position.
[0052] In the depicted embodiment, the flexible body 102 is shown
having an oblong shape with a round or curved back. The flexible
body 102 can also be defined as having a substantially cylindrical
shape when in the toy figure configuration. The oblong or
cylindrical shape of the flexible body 102 in the toy figure
configuration is merely exemplary. In other embodiments, the shape
of the flexible body 102 can be any of various shapes. For example,
the flexible body 102 in the toy figure configuration may have any
shape associated with any desired appearance for a toy figure.
[0053] As shown in the depicted embodiment of FIG. 2, the shape of
the flexible body 102 in the toy figure configuration may be
determined at least in part by a coupling mechanism 302 that
compresses or folds the flexible body 102 of the soft toy 100. For
example, tightening or closing of the coupling mechanism 302 brings
opposing edges of the body 102 toward each other, and bends the
body around itself, to form a substantially curved body of a shape
as defined above. In the depicted embodiment, the coupling
mechanism 302 includes a coupling strap 302a and a coupling loop
302b in an engaged position. The coupling strap 302a is threaded
through the coupling loop 302b and attached back onto itself. The
coupling strap 302a may include a hook and loop fastener, buttons,
or any other fasteners for maintaining the coupling strap 302a and
the coupling mechanism 302 in a closed or engaged position.
[0054] In one embodiment, the coupling mechanism 302 engages
different portions of the flexible body 102 to compress or fold the
flexible body 102 when the coupling mechanism 302 is in a closed
position. In one embodiment, the coupling loop 302b is attached to
one portion of the flexible body 102 while the coupling strap 302a
is attached to another portion of the flexible body 102. In one
embodiment, the coupling loop 302b and the coupling strap 302a
engage substantially opposite sides of the flexible body 102. The
coupling mechanism 302 may help to form the flexible body 102 into
a shape that more closely resembles a desired figure. For example,
the soft toy 100 may more closely resemble a dog when the coupling
mechanism 302 is in a closed position. Although the illustrated
embodiment only includes one coupling mechanism 302, in other
embodiments, the toy can include less than or more than one
coupling mechanism. For example, the flexible body 102 may already
resemble a desired shape without the need of a coupling mechanism.
In another example, more than one coupling mechanism may allow for
flexible body 102 shapes that more closely correlated to a desired
3-dimensional shape.
[0055] In the depicted embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the soft toy
100 also includes a closure mechanism 304 attached to the closure
extremity 106. In one embodiment, when in a closed position, the
closure mechanism 304 and/or closure extremity 106 span the opening
in the flexible body 102. In one embodiment, the closure mechanism
304 may be detachable and/or the closure extremity 106 may be
moveable (e.g., pivotable) to an open position to allow access to
the opening (see, e.g., opening 602 of FIG. 4) and a cavity (not
shown), such as a first internal cavity or a second internal
cavity, within an interior of the soft toy 100. In one embodiment,
the closure mechanism 304 and/or closure extremity 106 may help
retain an object, such as a blanket, within the cavity of the
flexible body 102.
[0056] The closure extremity 106 may be pivotable between a closed
an open position such that it may selectively cover the opening 602
to the cavity of the flexible body 102. For example, in the closed
position the closure extremity may cover the opening 602 to an
interior of the flexible body 102. In the open position, the
closure extremity 106 may be positioned such that the opening 602
is substantially unobstructed. In one embodiment, the closure
extremity 106 may be attached such that is may pivot at an
attachment point that couples the closure extremity 106 to the
hollow body 102. For example, a portion of material at the
attachment point may be flexible and may allow the closure
extremity 106 and flexible body 102 to pivot relative to each
other. In one embodiment, fabric forming a portion of the closure
extremity 106 and/or flexible body 102 may be flexible and allow
for the closure extremity 106 to pivot.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 3, the soft toy 100 is shown with the
coupling mechanism 302 in a released or open position and the soft
toy 100 configured in a pillow configuration. In the pillow
configuration, the coupling strap 302a and the coupling loop 302b
are shown at opposite sides of the flexible body 102 and are not
engaged. The flexible body 102 is shown having an altered shape due
to the lack of folding and compression caused by a coupling
mechanism 302 in the closed or engaged position. In one embodiment,
the shape of the flexible body 102 when in the pillow configuration
does not resemble a body of a desired figure as well as when the
coupling mechanism 302 is in a closed position. In one embodiment,
with the coupling mechanism 302 in an open or released position,
the flexible body 102 may be better shaped for usage as a pillow.
For example, in the pillow configuration, the flexible body 102 is
flattened relative to its shape in the toy figure configuration.
The flattened shape may provide a more comfortable surface for use
as a pillow by providing better support for the neck and/or head of
a child or user.
[0058] In one embodiment, the soft toy 100 is placed in the pillow
and blanket configuration by removing the blanket 604 from the
first internal cavity and inverting the flexible body 102 from its
configuration in the pillow configuration. In the pillow and
blanket configuration the blanket is no longer within the first
internal cavity formed by the flexible body 102, but is still
removably secured to the inner surface that defines the first
internal cavity. Further, the blanket 604 is now external to the
inverted cavity or second internal cavity formed by the inverted
flexible body 102 in the pillow and blanket configuration. Although
the blanket is not stored within the second internal cavity, the
extremities 104 are now stored within the second internal cavity
formed by the inverted flexible body 102. In other words, because
the extremities 104 are attached or formed as part of the second or
outer surface that defined the exterior of the flexible body 102 in
the toy figure and pillow configurations, as the flexible body is
inverted, the extremities also invert to be repositioned within the
newly formed second internal cavity.
[0059] In one embodiment, the extremities 104, indicated by dotted
lines, are positioned within the second internal cavity in the
pillow and blanket configuration. With the extremities 104 within
the second internal cavity, the extremities 104 now provide padding
for the flexible body 102 such that the flexible body 102 can still
function as a comfortable pillow even though the blanket 604 is
external to the flexible body 102. Additionally, the shape and
softness of the extremities 104 may also vary considerably. For
example, in one embodiment, the extremities 104 are formed overly
large or overstuffed to more fully fill the second internal cavity
of the flexible body 102 in the pillow and blanket
configuration.
[0060] As will be understood by one of skill in the art, the soft
toy 100 in the pillow and blanket configuration as described above
is exemplary only. For example, although the closure extremity 106
may be external to the inverted cavity, or second internal cavity,
of the flexible body 102, in other embodiments, the closure
extremity 106 may be positioned within the flexible body 102 (such
as by physically stuffing the extremity through the opening and
into the inverted cavity). Positioning the closure extremity 106
within the flexible body 102, may help to provide additional
padding to the pillow formed by the flexible body 102.
[0061] As shown in FIG. 5, one embodiment of a method 900 for
converting a soft toy 100 from a toy figure configuration to a
pillow and blanket configuration includes providing 902 a soft toy
100 in a first configuration. In one embodiment, the soft toy 100
may be the soft toy 100 of FIGS. 1-4. In one embodiment, the soft
toy 100 includes a flexible body 102 that defines a first internal
cavity. In one embodiment, the soft toy 100 in the first
configuration includes a blanket 604 within the cavity. In one
embodiment, the soft toy 100 includes at least one extremity 104,
106 that is coupled to the flexible body 102 externally to the
first internal cavity. For example, the extremities may be
connected to a second surface 108 defining an exterior of the
flexible body 102 of the soft toy 100.
[0062] The method 900 also includes inverting 904 the flexible body
102 of the soft toy 100. In one embodiment, and referring to FIG.
9, the flexible body 102 is inverted by turning the flexible body
102 inside out with a first surface 110 of the flexible body 102
defining an exterior surface of the body and a second surface 108
of the flexible body 102 defining an interior surface of a second
internal cavity formed within the flexible body 102. FIG. 9
illustrates a toy FIG. 100 in the process of being inverted with
the first surface 110 transitioning between lining an interior of a
cavity and lining an exterior of the flexible body 102. Conversely,
the second surface 108 is transitioning between lining an exterior
of the flexible body 102 and lining an interior of cavity. The
inverted flexible body 102 may form a second internal or inverted
cavity. In one embodiment, at least one of the extremities 104, 106
of the flexible body 102 is positioned within the second internal
cavity when the flexible body 102 has been inverted.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 6, one embodiment of a method 1000 for
converting a soft toy 100 between a toy figure configuration 1002,
a pillow configuration 1004, and a pillow and blanket configuration
1006 includes a plurality of exemplary steps 1008a-1020a and
1008b-1020b. It should be understood that the steps and arrows are
exemplary only and are not to convey a specific order.
Additionally, not all steps are required and indeed many steps may
be eliminated or unnecessary in some embodiments.
[0064] According to one embodiment, the method 1000 includes a step
1008 for converting a soft toy 100 between a toy figure
configuration 1002 and a pillow configuration 1004. FIGS. 1-2
illustrate an exemplary toy figure configuration 1002 and FIG. 3
illustrates an exemplary pillow configuration 1004.
[0065] In one embodiment, the method 1000 includes releasing 1008a
a coupling mechanism 302. In one embodiment, releasing 1008a the
coupling mechanism 302 places a soft toy 100 in a pillow
configuration 1004. In one embodiment, the soft toy 100 can be
converted from the pillow configuration 1004 to the toy figure
configuration 1002 by engaging 1008b the coupling mechanism 302.
FIGS. 2 and 4 illustrate an exemplary coupling mechanism 302 in
engaged 1008b and released 1008a positions.
[0066] According to one embodiment, the method 1000 includes a
number of steps 1010a-1020a for converting a soft toy 100 from a
toy figure configuration 1002 or pillow configuration 1004 to a
pillow and blanket configuration 1006. FIGS. 1-2 illustrate an
exemplary toy figure configuration 1002, FIG. 3 illustrates an
exemplary pillow configuration 1004, and FIGS. 7 and 10 illustrate
exemplary pillow and blanket configurations 1006.
[0067] In one embodiment, converting a soft toy 100 to a pillow and
blanket configuration 1006 includes detaching 1010a a closure
mechanism 304 to release an opening 602 from a closed position.
Figure illustrates on embodiment of a closure mechanism 304 in a
closed position. Converting a soft toy 100 to a pillow and blanket
configuration 1006 may also include attaching 1012a a closure
mechanism 304 to a surface of a closure extremity 106. Converting a
soft toy 100 to a pillow and blanket configuration 1006 may further
include removing 1014a a blanket 604 from a first internal cavity
of a flexible body 102. FIGS. 7 and 10 illustrate a blanket 604
that has been removed 1014a from the flexible body 102.
[0068] In one embodiment, converting a soft toy 100 to a pillow and
blanket configuration 1006 may also include inverting 1016a a
flexible body 102 of a soft toy 100 to form a second internal
cavity. FIG. 9 illustrates a flexible body 102 that is being
inverted 1016a to form a second internal cavity. Converting a soft
toy 100 to a pillow and blanket configuration 1006 may also include
positioning 1018a one or more extremities 104, 106 within the
second internal cavity of the inverted flexible body 102 as shown
in FIGS. 7 and 10 (with FIG. 10 showing the closure extremity in
the second internal cavity.
[0069] In one embodiment, converting a soft toy 100 to a pillow and
blanket configuration 1006 includes attaching 1020a a closure
mechanism 304 to maintain an opening 602 to a second internal
cavity of a flexible body 102 in a closed position.
[0070] According to one embodiment, the method 1000 includes a
number of steps 1010b-1020b for converting a soft toy 100 from a
pillow and blanket configuration 1006 to a toy figure configuration
1002 or a pillow configuration 1004. In one embodiments the steps
1010b-1020B for converting a soft toy 100 from a pillow and blanket
configuration 1006 to a toy figure configuration 1002 or a pillow
configuration 1004 are substantially the opposite of the steps
1010a-1020a for converting a soft toy 100 from a toy figure
configuration 1002 or pillow configuration 1004 to a pillow and
blanket configuration 1006. FIGS. 1-2 illustrate an exemplary toy
figure configuration 1002, FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary pillow
configuration 1004, and FIGS. 7 and 10 illustrate an exemplary
pillow and blanket configuration 1006.
[0071] In one embodiment, converting a soft toy 100 to a pillow
configuration 104 or a toy figure configuration 1002 includes
detaching 1020b a closure mechanism 304 to release an opening 602
to a second internal cavity of an inverted flexible body 102 from a
closed position.
[0072] In one embodiment, converting a soft toy 100 to a pillow
configuration 104 or a toy figure configuration 1002 includes
removing 1018b one or more extremities 104, 106 from a second
internal cavity of an inverted flexible body 102. FIGS. 1-4
illustrate the extremities 104, 106 external to the flexible body
102. Converting a soft toy 100 to a pillow configuration 104 or a
toy figure configuration 1002 may also include inverting 1016b the
flexible body 102 to form a first internal cavity. FIGS. 1-4
illustrate a flexible body 102 in a configuration that forms a
first internal cavity.
[0073] In one embodiment, converting a soft toy 100 to a pillow
configuration 104 or a toy figure configuration 1002 further
includes inserting 1014b the blanket 604 into the first internal
cavity of the flexible body 102. FIG. 4 illustrates a blanket 604
that has been inserted 1014b into a first internal cavity of a
flexible body 102. In a further embodiment, converting a soft toy
100 to a pillow configuration 104 or a toy figure configuration
1002 includes detaching 1012b the closure mechanism 304 from a
surface of the closure extremity 106. FIG. 6 illustrates one
embodiment of a closure mechanism 304 detached from a closure
extremity 106. Converting a soft toy 100 to a pillow configuration
1004 or a toy figure configuration 1002 may also include attaching
1010b the closure mechanism 304 to maintain the opening in a closed
position. FIG. 4 illustrates one embodiment of a closure mechanism
304 in an open position.
[0074] Turning to FIGS. 7-9, one embodiment of a soft toy 100 at
different configurations and steps between configurations is shown.
FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of a soft toy 100 in a pillow and
blanket configuration 1006. Extremities 104 are illustrated within
an inverted cavity of an inverted flexible body 102. A closure
extremity 106 is shown external to the inverted flexible body 102.
In another embodiment, the closure extremity 106 may be within the
inverted flexible body 102. The blanket 604 is shown external to
the flexible body 102. The blanket 604 also forms a portion of the
flexible body 102.
[0075] FIG. 8 illustrates the soft toy 100 with the flexible body
102 that has been inverted from the position depicted in FIG. 7.
The blanket 604 is partially inserted into the flexible body 102
and the extremities 104 are external to the flexible body 102. FIG.
9 illustrates the soft toy 100 with the flexible body 102 in the
process of being inverted between the pillow and blanket mode of
FIG. 7 and the configuration illustrated in FIG. 8. The flexible
body 102 is shown partially turned inside out with some extremities
104 already external to the flexible body 102. A first surface 110
that is an external surface in FIG. 7 is shown transitioning so
that it will become an internal surface, as in FIG. 8. Similarly,
the second surface 108 that is an internal surface in FIG. 7 is
transitioning so that it will be an external surface, as in FIG. 8.
The extremities 104 are shown transitioning between being within a
cavity of the flexible body 102 and being external to a cavity of
the flexible body 102. In one embodiment, the closure extremity 106
may also transition between being internal or external to a cavity
of the flexible body 102. The blanket 604 is shown partially within
the partially inverted flexible body 102. One may continue the
inversion of the flexible body 102 by gripping a portion of the
hollow body 102 and stuffing the blanket 604 into the hollow body.
Inverting from a pillow mode and a pillow and blanket mode may be
done in a substantially opposite manner.
[0076] Turning to FIGS. 10-11, another embodiment of a soft toy 100
at different configurations and steps is shown. FIG. 10 illustrates
one embodiment of a soft toy 100 in a pillow and blanket
configuration 1006. Extremities 104 are illustrated within an
inverted cavity of an inverted flexible body 102. The closure
extremity 106 is also shown within the inverted cavity of the
inverted flexible body 102. In another embodiment, the closure
extremity 106 may be external to the inverted flexible body 102.
The blanket 604 is shown external to the flexible body 102. The
blanket 604 is formed separate from the flexible body 102.
[0077] FIG. 11 illustrates the soft toy 100 with the flexible body
102 that has been inverted from the position depicted in FIG. 10.
The blanket 604 is partially inserted into the flexible body 102
and the extremities 104 and closure extremity 106 are external to
the flexible body 102.
[0078] The present invention may be embodied in other specific
forms without departing from its spirit or essential
characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in
all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of
the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims
rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come
within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be
embraced within their scope.
* * * * *