U.S. patent application number 14/940267 was filed with the patent office on 2016-05-19 for programmable interactive toy.
The applicant listed for this patent is Robert A. EARL-OCRAN. Invention is credited to Robert A. EARL-OCRAN.
Application Number | 20160136534 14/940267 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55960828 |
Filed Date | 2016-05-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160136534 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
EARL-OCRAN; Robert A. |
May 19, 2016 |
Programmable Interactive Toy
Abstract
An interactive toy which includes an object light sensor, an
object microprocessor with an integrated memory device, controlled
by an object switch mechanism, with a power source is programmable
with light pulses from a separate toy device which consists of an
object light source and user input methods such as buttons, also
controlled with a microprocessor to control light coding. The
interactive toy stores user codes in sequence applied. When the
user takes away toy from device light source, the toy is placed
down onto a flat playing surface where the object switch mechanism
will engage and sequentially trigger playback of user applied
codes. Preprogrammed commands (non-user) are herewith accessed and
activated. When the said interactive toy is in the playback phase,
output may be either or a combination of lights, audio clips,
sounds, motion of parts and full motion of embodiment. The action
of code inputs stimulates a child's logic and thinking, developing
essential STEAM skills. The various forms of interaction with the
toy base device adjusts the light source output to create a
different code commands. A range of compatible accessories and toy
playsets further diversify the play experience.
Inventors: |
EARL-OCRAN; Robert A.;
(London, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
EARL-OCRAN; Robert A. |
London |
|
GB |
|
|
Family ID: |
55960828 |
Appl. No.: |
14/940267 |
Filed: |
November 13, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62079069 |
Nov 13, 2014 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
446/175 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63H 2200/00 20130101;
A63H 5/00 20130101; A63H 33/22 20130101; A63H 30/04 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63H 30/04 20060101
A63H030/04 |
Claims
1) A programmable toy unit comprising of: A body that includes a
multitude of components; An object light sensor such as
photoresistor to receive light pulses, an object logic such as a
microprocessor to interpret and translate light data into code, an
object Internal Memory to stores codes sequence(s) a connection
socket to attach a variety of compatible accessories, an object
component to identify the location driver wheel may be part of a
location system consisting of a sensor or micro wheel, a Socket(s)
for additional electronic devices such as a camera, infrared
emitter and receiver, output components activated during playback
of stored codes, output methods may include either or a combination
of lights, audio and or trigger accessories which may be either or
a combination of LEDs, speaker(s), motor(s), an object power supply
such as rechargeable batteries, an object component to indicate
when each code has been received; this object indicator may be a
combination of not limited to lights/speakers, an object digital
component which feedback current play status such as learning
progress, stages in a game etc., an object micro lever switch which
may be mounted higher internally within the said toy housing then
triggered by a movable mechanical component, such as the underside
chassis of a car which is electronically connected to control power
flow to circuit to alternate the variable states, an object power
saving component with an object switch, an object code accumulator
digitally counted and interpreted by said microprocessor, an object
capture marker to identify said toy unit which may be in the form
of an illustration such as a related sticker or said capture marker
may also be an electronic tag such as NFC.
2) A claim of: A body that includes a components primary to act as
a controlled light source which will communicate with said toy unit
figure as in claim 1); An object body; used to program the said toy
unit by means of varied light pulses directed at the said toy unit,
specifically at the object light sensor, typically a photo
resistor, may be applied whilst toy object is placed onto.
3) A claim of: Said toy figure responds to coding method of claim
2) when laid down onto any plain flat surface, with output in
varied forms such as motion, lights sounds or a combination of
above.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority on prior U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/079,069, filed Nov. 13,
2014, which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety by
reference.
FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is generally directed to toys, and
more particularly to a toy figure(s) that can be programmed to
perform a series of functions by interaction with a toy base
device. As the child engages in planning which commands are best
for achieving a variety of activities and actuating applying
commands, and interacting with toy (and compatible accessories)
during playback of the user applied commands, the child develops
core STEAM skills. In essence, a toy figure retains traditional toy
play patterns, which are brought to life and enhanced using the
designated light source, generated from said toy base, or in a toy
playset.
[0003] Teaching children how to code has become more important than
in previous years, highlighted by the recent introduction of coding
in the national curriculum as well as campaigns such as Code.org.,
with the likes of Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg amongst others,
heading up this awareness campaign.
[0004] However, majority of coding platforms are screen based, such
as on a computer or tablet or mobile phone. This is the same for
current programmable toys, typically robots, educational toys and
science kits; a heavy reliance on time spent staring at a screen.
Specifically relating to the toy industry, current and future
trends are `smart` toys that are connected to an electronic base
(with computer logic) or to a smart device (such as a tablet or
smartphone, computer) to enhance the play experience. Connectivity
to such devices may involve placing the toy onto the surface of the
base, or onto screen of a smart device, or wireless. When
connected, the toy(s) typically communicate, (either receiving and
or transmitting data) and are recognized by the smart base/a gaming
app within the tablet, allowing the user to play and interact with
the app of the device using the specific toy character figures,
e.g. NFC, QR Codes, Bluetooth and like systems.
[0005] However, conventionally available toys that interact with an
electronic base require high cost wireless communication
technology. Alternatively a toy that interacts and communicates
with a smart device requires the toy to incorporate capacitive
contact points and require the user to hold the toy at specific
points, thereby significantly limiting their use and function.
Additionally, the app-based toys, that are not remotely controlled,
are typically in the form of static figurines incapable of being
programmed or becoming interactive, as desired.
ASPECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present disclosure is directed to various aspects of the
present invention directed to, without limitation, toys, toy
figures, toy action figures, toy character figures, etc., real or
virtual.
[0007] One aspect of the present invention is to provide a static
toy or toy figure that can be animated or brought to life by
interacting toy figure with an interactive toy base with relevant
software which may also be further enhanced with connectivity to a
smart device via an app. Further, the live action or animation can
be varied, as desired.
[0008] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a toy
figure that can be rendered interactive to perform desired
functions or actions, preferably represented by one or more of
light, sound, motion, smell, shooting of solid/fluid/projectile,
and the like.
[0009] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a toy
figure that can be programmed to perform desired functions or
actions, preferably represented by one or more of light, sound,
motion, smell, shooting of solid/fluid/projectile, and the like, by
interaction with an interactive toy base with relevant software
which may also be further enhanced with connectivity to a smart
device via an app.
[0010] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a toy
figure that is compatible with an interactive toy base with
relevant software which may also be further enhanced with
connectivity to a smart device, such as a tablet, smartphone, etc.,
to receive, process and/or store instructions to perform the
user-selected functions or actions.
[0011] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide
recognition when a variety of compatible accessories is attached to
programmable toy figure. This may be achieved by plugging in the
accessory into the surface of the main programmable toy, in which a
digital identification is triggered by a combination of mechanical
and physical configurations within the main programmable toy.
[0012] Additionally, if programmable to is placed on smart device
screen, the digital recognition recorded via means of image
recognition and is fed back to user creating a magical and
interactive experience. Examples may be a driver (toy accessory)
slotting into a vehicle (main programmable toy figure) and being
recognized as a particular character. Or a pilot (toy accessory)
being inserted into the cockpit of a spaceship (main toy figure)
and is registered as a pilot with a particular skill set.
[0013] Another example may be a robot warrior (main toy figure)
with collectable weapons (accessory) which may incorporate a spring
loaded projectile] to enhance user experience and fun.
[0014] The code input will then be affected and vary according to
which accessory is digitally recognized. This will then affect code
play back creating a unique play experience each time.
[0015] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a toy
figure that can be played with as a three-dimensional (3D) animated
toy, or as its digital version/rendering on an electronic device,
such as a tablet, smartphone, play-set, etc.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] The main toy figure is placed onto an interactive toy base
designed with relevant software which may also be further enhanced
with connectivity to a smart device, such as a tablet or
smartphone. The toy base may be small or a large play-set. The
figure is then "given instructions" preferably by means of light
pulses from the toy base in accordance with the user's selections,
in which input methods maybe be either or a combination of buttons
and or sensors (such as motion sensors) and or detachable
accessories and plays back or carries out these instructions when
lifted off the electronic toy base or smart device, or toy play-set
and placed onto any flat surface.
[0017] The toy figure is an interactive toy, which receives light
pulses and converts them to code instructions, stores the code
with, for example, internal flash memory, then reacts and performs
a function(s), once placed onto a flat surface. Light pulse input
is transmitted from an interactive toy base or a toy play-set, with
relevant software or a smart device, by input means of control of
buttons and or sensors and or detachable accessories. The toy
figure may be able to calculate distance travelled by means of a
digital counter, similar to a Tachometer with readings taken from a
micro wheel protruding from the underside of toy, rolling across
the flat surface. Another means of calculating distance travelled
is using sensors.
[0018] The electronically toy figure is a modular unit, with mini
sockets for attaching and plugging in compatible components to
enhance playback features, such as animating the toy figure with
additional motors. These components may consist of for example, or
audio features (speakers), whilst using existing inexpensive
technology, e.g., light sensors, located inside the figure, which
responds to a variety of light pulses (light
pulses=command/instruction to microchip on-board the toy).
[0019] In the case of directly interacting with a smart device, the
toy figure is preferably recognized by simply using the camera on
smart device. For additional play options i.e. when playing on
screen, the toy figure can also be recognized by a mirror mounted
over a camera of the smart device to reflect and capture the toy,
as well as its location on the smart device. The recognition
technology may be achieved augmented capture; unique marker is
located on each toy figure and each toy accessory. Other means of
recognition may be image recognition engine built into the
programmable toy app.
[0020] The invention provides free handling during playback of
programmed instructions without the requirement of pressing buttons
to initiate playback sequence. Uniquely, if connected to a smart
device, the toy will preferably have electronically moving parts
that react to commands from an app. These may be various game
features. These moving parts may comprise of slots allowing
accessories to be mounted which enhance imaginative play
[0021] Playback output from the toy may be altered by plugging in a
secondary accessory into the toy base prior to programming
selection. These secondary accessories may affect the transmission
of light source, altering either or a combination of the light
pattern, brightness, or frequency of pulses.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] One of the above and other aspects, novel features and
advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the
following detailed description of a preferred embodiment(s) of the
invention, as illustrated in the drawings, in which:
[0023] FIGS. 1A-1B are perspective, schematic top and bottom views,
respectively, of a toy or toy figure in accordance with a preferred
embodiment of the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the toy figure
of FIG. 1, showing internal components;
[0025] FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration showing the toy figure of
FIG. 1, being placed on an electronic toy base or smart device,
shown with two accessories;
[0026] FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3, showing the toy figure
not being affected by ambient light as the micro lever switch is
not closed;
[0027] FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4, showing an alternate
embodiment for the toy figure recognition by the electronic device,
using a detachable camera which is plugged into the electronic toy
device;
[0028] FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 4, showing the child lining
up the said toy for coding with aid of the toy figure location
indicator on the electronic device;
[0029] FIG. 7 shows the toy figure placed on the location indicator
of the electronic device and the device responding with feedback to
indicate toy is in place ready for coding;
[0030] FIG. 8 is view similar to FIG. 7, showing a user applying
selected codes/commands with interactive feedback; feedback of each
code which has been received is indicated with light/sound or a
combination;
[0031] FIG. 9 shows the toy figure being lifted off the electronic
device after having been programmed by the electronic device, and
being placed on a selected play surface;
[0032] FIG. 10 shows the toy figure having been placed on the play
surface with a short delay before playback;
[0033] FIG. 11 is a view similar to FIG. 10, showing an output
being generated by the toy figure in accordance with the user
selected codes applied by the electronic toy device;
[0034] FIG. 12 is a view similar to FIG. 11, illustrating the toy
figure moving on the play surface as an example of an
action/output;
[0035] FIGS. 13 and 14 are views similar to FIGS. 6-8, showing a
code altering accessory during the coding phase; FIGS. 15-17 are
also similar to the sequence illustrated in FIGS. 6-8, showing
recognition of an accessory being attached to the toy figure and
programming;
[0036] FIG. 18 shows placement of the toy figure with the attached
accessory on the play surface;
[0037] FIG. 19 illustrates an example of an output generated by the
selected accessory, as well as the toy figure itself, playing
against another toy figure, itself in motion output;
[0038] FIG. 20 is a view similar to FIG. 11, showing an
action/output generated by the selected accessory;
[0039] FIG. 21 is a view similar to FIG. 12, showing the motion of
the toy figure with the attached accessory on the play surface as
an example of an action/output;
[0040] FIG. 22 illustrates another example of an action/output
generated by the selected spring loaded accessory;
[0041] FIG. 23 shows toy mounted with an accessory in a coded
sequence of motion, triggering an additional separate accessory by
being programmed to move in its direction;
[0042] FIG. 24 is a view similar to FIG. 23, shows toy mounted with
an accessory in a following a complex coded sequence in motion,
triggering another separate accessory;
[0043] FIG. 25 is a view similar to FIG. 2, showing internal
components and closed micro switch;
[0044] FIG. 26 is a side perspective view of the toy figure of FIG.
1, showing additional function input methods thereof;
[0045] FIG. 27 illustrates a schematic view of the toy figure of
FIG. 2, aligned over the coding spot of the electronic toy base,
showing the switch lever in an open position;
[0046] FIG. 28 is a view similar to FIG. 27, showing the toy figure
placed on the display screen of the electronic device with the
pressure switch closed and the coding light flash emanating from
the electronic device;
[0047] FIG. 29 is a schematic flow chart illustration for coding or
programming of a toy figure;
[0048] FIG. 30 illustrates a toy play-set for use in coding or
programming of a toy figure in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention; and
[0049] FIG. 31 illustrates the play-set of FIG. 30, being used to
code or program a toy figure.
[0050] FIG. 32 shows an alternative aesthetic form of electronic
toy base device connected with a wire (this may also be done
wirelessly with an internal wireless module 31 FIG. 27), preferable
an embodiment cable with a 3.5 mm audio pin which is connected by
the user to a smart device such as a smartphone 47. The range of
code inputs are herewith increased where a more visual programming
experience is enhanced with motion graphics displayed 53 on the
smart device screen 49;
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT(S) OF THE PRESENT
INVENTION
[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1A-1B, 2 and 25-26, a preferred
embodiment of a toy figure in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention is described. In this regard, it is initially
noted that although for clarity and ease of understanding, the toy
figure has been illustrated schematically as a geometrical figure,
the present invention covers various types of human/humanoid
figures, animal figures, characters, and other objects, articles,
shapes and figures, which may be fictional or non-fictional, real
or virtual, mythical, biblical or non-biblical, historic,
pre-historic, modern, robotic, hybrids, avatars, earth-borne or
from outer space, now known or developed/found later, including,
but not limited to planes, helicopters, ships, submarines, weapons,
tanks, vehicles, armored vehicles, soldiers, sports figures,
political figures, celebrities, etc.
[0052] As shown, the toy figure, represented by reference numeral
1, includes a marker 2 on one or more sides thereof that is unique
to the type of toy or figure and which is captured by, for example,
the camera accessory 24 plugged into the electronic toy base 18,
and recognized thereof for identification and programming of the
toy figure. The marker 2 can be a simple geometric figure, graphic,
symbol or the like, or be an image representative of the toy figure
itself. On the front side of the toy FIG. 1, there is provided an
accessory slot or opening 6 for receiving an accessory for adding
more functionality to the toy figure, as described below in more
detail. It is noted herewith that it is within the scope of the
present invention to have a suitable connection or other mechanism,
instead of the slot opening 6, for the purpose of attaching a
selected accessory.
[0053] As best shown in FIG. 26, on the rear side of the toy FIG.
1, there are provided a game play/play mode indicator 13
representing, for example, the number of lives remaining in the
toy, an on/off switch 15, and a code counter indicator 17 for
indicating the codes having been uploaded to the toy FIG. 1, or the
remaining code allowance for uploading.
[0054] Referring now specifically to FIGS. 2 and 25, the preferred
components include a light sensor 3, a suitable memory 4, a
microchip or logic module 5, a code counter 16, power source 12, an
electrical connection point for detachable devices such as optical
receiver 9, and a compartment 10 for accommodating various
mechanical components to impart mechanical action/motion to the toy
FIG. 1. The light sensor 3 is optically open at the bottom for
receiving codes preferably in the form of light pulses, from the
toy electronic toy base device (see FIG. 28) or compatible toy
playset (see FIGS. 30-31).
[0055] As best shown in FIGS. 1B and 25, a pressure switch,
preferably including a mechanical lever 14, is provided on the
underside of the toy FIG. 1. When the pressure switch 14 is closed
such as when the toy FIG. 1 is placed on a surface (see FIGS. 10
and 28, for example), the circuit connection from light sensor 3 to
the code interpretation module 5 is temporarily joined, (not shown)
and when lifted off the surface, the connection is temporarily
broken. As shown in FIG. 1A, a suitable display 11 indicates code
entry by a user and functions as a feedback upon each code
entry.
[0056] Referring to FIGS. 3-8, an electronic toy device for use in
the present invention will now be described. As shown, the
electronic device is preferably a toy object 18 with a visual
indicator 20.
[0057] Coding input object(s) 23 such as buttons, or removable
tiles or sensors are interacted with by the user 40 (see FIG. 8).
In order to facilitate proper placement of the toy FIG. 1 to
receive codes 28, a location guide icon/image/symbol 21 is present
(see FIG. 6). The indictor 20 will positive respond when toy is in
place.
[0058] To further expand coding input interactive methods, (FIG.
32) it is noted herewith that other electronic devices, such as a
smartphone, tablets, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or the
like may also be plugged in 55 to toy base device 18 where
additional play enhancement is achieved with a broader range of
input methods such as audio input, for example clapping 50 or a
short verbalized code spoken into the microphone 52 as well as
familiar touch interaction 53. Additionally, similar to capture
methods as in FIG. 5, a digital version of the toy 51 may be
generated by scanning toy FIG. 2 into an app or software. As noted
above, the electronic toy device 18 includes a port where a camera
accessory 24 may be attached for identifying a variety of toy
figures and digitally registering the marker 2 within the internal
microprocessor 26 and acknowledging the specific toy in current
coding for customized play. FIG. 3 illustrates and example of two
accessories 29 and 34, their own unique identification marker 30
and 35 respectively to be scanned with similar methods. To that
end, future versions of the recognition may incorporate image
recognition technology, uniquely recognizing the actual toy
aesthetics and form. In addition, the details of the toy FIG. 1,
such as background story, facts, and other related/desired
information and statistics, etc. is highlighted 20 either with
audio and or lights as shown by reference numeral 7 (see FIG. 7).
[For instance the particular details may mirror the characteristics
of the relevant character from a TV show/film franchise. If the
character from the children's show were a for instance a lion, the
output 7 may be audio information such as `roaring` sound effects
and spoken out (via speakers of toy base), in a courageous voice.
Another example is if the toy figure were a wrestler, there may be
a short phrase from the relevant wrestling show, echoing his/her
signature moves. Once the toy FIG. 1 has been placed on the
indicated location 21 (FIG. 6), the toy figure is ready to receive
code and indicates when each code has been assigned (see FIGS.
7-8).
[0059] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 22-24, the aspect of an accessory
for the toy FIG. 1 will now be described. In particular, FIG. 3
shows two accessories 29 and 34 that are different at least in
terms of their functionality. For instance, the accessory 29 may
represent a weapon, such as a sword, gun, or the like, while the
accessory 34 may represent an arm or wing, both for incorporating
or attaching to the toy FIG. 1 for additional functionality.
Depending upon the type of toy being used, or as desired by the
user, various other accessory may be used. For instance, in a more
educational expression, a jeep may go on a jungle safari with a
characterized monkey driver. Similarly, a medieval warrior would
likely charge on a horse with a spear or slingshot, while a modern
soldier would likely be inside of, for example, a tank, armored
vehicle, fighter plane, or ship, or the like with various automatic
weapons. Thus, the accessories needed/used by the two would be
different.
[0060] In FIG. 22, the components represented by reference numerals
33 and 38 represent mechanical or other mechanism of the
accessories 29 and 34, respectively. In particular, the mechanical
mechanism could be used to generate, for example, an output
represented by an audio, video, light, action, shooting of
projectile, etc., or a combination thereof.
[0061] Referring to FIGS. 30-31, an embodiment of a play-set 44
that can be used to code or program the toy FIG. 1, will now be
described. In particular, the play-set 44 includes a suitable
button 42 for initiating a coding or programming sequence. A coding
pad 43 includes a light emitter 46 embedded in the center thereof
for coding or programming of the toy FIG. 1. When the toy FIG. 1 is
positioned over the code pad 43, light flash or the like 45 is
generated for coding purposes. The play-set 44 may optionally
include additional coding buttons at different locations thereof
for initiating different codes for uploading onto the toy FIG. 1.
It is noted that the light emitter 46 will flash only when the toy
FIG. 1 is placed onto the code pad 43, as it preferably includes a
pressure switch, which completes the light coding circuit (not
shown).
Use and Operation
[0062] Having described a preferred embodiment of a toy figure in
accordance with the present invention and an accessory thereof, a
preferred manner of use and operation of same will now be
described. Referring first to FIG. 29 and summarily speaking, a toy
figure is placed onto the said electronic toy base 18, ready to
upload codes via a light source. A selection of desired codes each
representing a different function or action to be carried out by
the toy figure. Once the toy figure has been uploaded with the
codes, it can be lifted off the electronic device and placed on a
play surface to allow the toy figure to perform the functions
dictated by the uploaded codes. In order to enhance play and user
experience, one or more accessories may be used that add output
functionalities of the toy figure.
[0063] As shown in FIG. 4, the toy FIG. 1 is to be placed on
designated location for accurate coding.
[0064] Next, the user 40 actuates code input method buttons/sensors
23 to choose the codes, the entries of which is visually displayed
by the indicator 11 on the toy FIG. 1. It is noted herewith that,
as shown in FIG. 27, prior to being placed on the electronic device
18, the switch lever 14 is in the open position. One skilled in the
art would appreciate when the toy figure is placed on the screen 20
of the electronic device 18, the lever 14 would pivot and close,
thereby completing circuitry within the toy figure.
[0065] As the user selects the codes by actuating the input methods
23, the electronic toy base 18 initiates a light pulse sequence 45
(see FIG. 28), that is received by the sensor 3 of the toy FIG. 1
and is processed by the logic module 5, which converts the pulse
data into action codes to release preprogrammed actions. These
commands are stored in the on-board memory 4 for playback.
Preferably, one set or sequence of pulses from the electronic toy
base device 18 equals to one code; and, each code preferably
translates into one action or function to be displayed or carried
out by the toy FIG. 1. It is noted herewith that instead of light
pulses, alternative technology, such as electromagnetics, may be
used for coding/programming of the toy FIG. 1.
[0066] As noted above, an internal counter 16 tallies the codes
being uploaded and displays the remaining code allowance at the
indicator 17 (see FIGS. 25-26). Once the toy FIG. 1 has been
uploaded with the selected codes, it is simply lifted off the
surface of the electronic toy base 18 and placed on a suitable play
surface 39 (see FIG. 9). One skilled in the art would appreciate
that once the toy figure is lifted off, the switch 14 opens meaning
any background/ambient light is not received by the logic module 5.
Once the toy FIG. 1 is placed on the play surface 39, the switch
closes and a short countdown (preferably three-five seconds) is
initiated for playback (see FIG. 10). In other words, there is
provided a short electronic delay for playback and the toy figure
remains in "standby" mode during this time.
[0067] Once the countdown is completed, the stored codes are
activated and the toy figure displays an output 41 in the form of
one or more of light, sound, motion, smell, action, shooting of a
projectile, etc. As shown in FIG. 12, the output 41 can also be in
the form of the toy figure moving about the play surface 39.
[0068] Referring to FIGS. 15-24, the use and application of an
accessory will now be described.
[0069] The toy FIG. 1 is placed on the electronic toy base 18, as
described above. An accessory 29 may be recognized and captured by
the toy FIG. 1. The accessory 29 is then inserted into the slot or
opening 6 in the toy FIG. 1.
[0070] As shown in FIG. 16, in the same manner as uploading the
codes to the toy FIG. 1, described above, one or more codes for the
accessory 29 are then selected and uploaded by actuating the button
23 (see FIG. 17).
[0071] As shown in FIG. 18, the toy FIG. 1, with the accessory 29
attached thereto, is then placed on the play surface 39 where,
after a brief countdown sequence, the accessory 29 displays the
output 41A based on the uploaded codes. As noted above with regard
to the toy FIG. 1, the output may be a combination of light, audio,
motion, smell, firing of projectiles, etc. (see FIGS. 19-20 and
22). The accessory 29 may also impart to the toy FIG. 1 an output
41A in the form of a movement on the play surface 39 (see FIG. 21).
Another accessory 34 may be connected to the toy FIG. 1, FIG. 3
depicts that is different from the first accessory 29 in terms of
theme, character, aesthetics, functionalities, power, etc.
[0072] FIGS. 23-24 highlight the toy FIG. 1 in motion following a
programmed sequence of codes of which the toy FIG. 1 makes contact
to trigger mini playset mechanisms.
[0073] It is noted herewith that although the invention is
described in terms of a toy figure, it includes, without
limitation, toys, toy action figures, toy character figures, etc.,
real or virtual, now known or discovered/known later.
[0074] While this invention has been described as having preferred
sequences, ranges, ratios, steps, order of steps, materials,
structures, symbols, indicia, graphics, color scheme(s), shapes,
configurations, features, components, or designs, it is understood
that it is capable of further modifications, uses and/or
adaptations of the invention following in general the principle of
the invention, and including such departures from the present
disclosure as those come within the known or customary practice in
the art to which the invention pertains, and as may be applied to
the central features hereinbefore set forth, and fall within the
scope of the invention and of the limits of the claims appended
hereto or presented later. The invention, therefore, is not limited
to the preferred embodiment(s) shown/described herein.
* * * * *