HK1162384A - Doll with dress that transforms to wings - Google Patents

Description

Doll with clothes capable of being transformed into wings

Technical Field

The present invention relates generally to interactive toy dolls, and more particularly to toy dolls having one or more associated movable elements that are actuatable by user manipulation to transform the doll's clothing into wings.

Background

Some conventional characters or dolls have movable parts. Such characters or dolls typically have one or more components that can be manipulated. Some examples of deformable dolls and dolls having wings movable by user actuation are disclosed in U.S. patent nos. 4,568,304, 4,571,206, 5,149,289, and 5,588,895. The above referenced patents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.

There is a need for such a character or doll having movable parts that move in a new manner or pattern, and a need for a character or doll having deformable or reconfigurable parts.

Disclosure of Invention

In one embodiment, a reconfigurable doll includes: a body comprising a torso and at least one arm movably connected to the torso; a movable portion connected to the body, the movable portion being arrangeable in a first position proximate to the body, in which the movable portion forms part of a garment of the body, and a second position spaced from the body, in which the movable portion forms part of a wing of the body; and an actuation assembly connected to the body, the actuation assembly being connected to the at least one arm and the activity portion, the actuation assembly being manipulable by a user to move the activity portion from the first position to the second position and to move the at least one arm relative to the torso.

In one embodiment, the doll body includes a lower portion and the movable portion is proximate the lower portion of the body in its first position. At least one arm of the toy figure moves substantially simultaneously with the movable portion. Further, the at least one arm has an upper position and a lower position relative to the body, the at least one arm extending upwardly from the body in its upper position and being positioned proximate to the body in its lower position.

In one embodiment, the movable portion of the doll is a first movable portion, and the doll further includes: a second active portion connected to the body, the second active portion being arrangeable in a first position of its own close to the body, in which first position the second active portion forms part of the garment of the body, and a second position of its own spaced apart from the body, in which second active portion forms part of the wings of the body.

In one embodiment, the second movable portion is moved substantially simultaneously with the first movable portion. Alternatively or additionally, the first movable part overlaps a portion of the second movable part when the movable part is in its first position.

In one embodiment, each of the moving parts comprises a support member having a proximal end connected to the torso and an opposite distal end, the distal ends of the support members intersecting each other when the moving parts are moved from their second position to their first position.

In another embodiment, the actuation assembly includes an actuator extending outwardly from the body, the actuator being manipulable by a user to move the movable portion. The movable portion includes a support member pivotally connected to the torso of the doll, and a flexible member connected to the support member. The support member includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a bend between the proximal end and the distal end, the proximal end being connected to the body. The distal end extends outwardly away from the body when the movable portion is in its second position, and the curved portion extends around a portion of the torso of the body when the movable portion is in its first position.

In one embodiment, a reconfigurable doll includes: a body comprising a torso and a lower portion; a movable member connected to the body, the movable member being arrangeable in an upper position and a lower position relative to the body, the movable member being spaced apart from the body and forming a wing-like structure in the upper position and being positioned proximate to a lower portion of the body and forming a garment-like structure in the lower position; and an actuation assembly connected to the body, the actuation assembly being connected to the movable member of the torso of the body such that a user can manipulate the actuation assembly to move the movable member between its upper and lower positions.

In one embodiment, the movable member is a first movable member, the doll further comprising: a second movable member connected to the body and to the actuating assembly, the movable members collectively forming a garment when the movable members are in their lower position and a pair of wings when the movable members are in their upper position, the movable members being moved substantially simultaneously between their upper and lower positions via the actuating assembly.

In one embodiment, the body includes first and second arms movably connected to the torso, and the actuation assembly is connected to the first and second arms such that the user can manipulate the first and second arms substantially simultaneously relative to the body when the first and second movable members are moved.

In another embodiment, the arms are moved from the lower position to the upper position substantially simultaneously when the movable members are moved from their lower position to their upper position.

In one embodiment, the actuation assembly includes an actuator and a drive mechanism connected to the actuator, the drive mechanism being connected to the arm and to the movable member such that movement of the actuator causes movement of the arm and movable member relative to the body.

In one embodiment, the body includes first and second arms movably connected to the torso, and the actuation assembly is connected to the first and second arms such that a user can manipulate the first and second arms relative to the body when the active member is moved.

In a first embodiment, a reconfigurable doll includes: a body including a torso, a lower portion, and arms movably connected to the torso, the arms being disposable in a raised position and a lowered position relative to the body; -moving members connected to the body, the moving members being positionable in a raised position and a lowered position relative to the body, the moving members being spaced apart from the body in their raised position and forming a wing-like structure, the moving members being positioned proximate to a lower portion of the body in their lowered position and forming a garment-like structure; and an actuator connected to the arm and the movable member, the actuator configured to move the movable member between its raised and lowered positions substantially simultaneously with movement of the arm between its raised and lowered positions.

In one embodiment, each of the movable members includes a support member pivotally connected to the body, the support members extending outwardly from the torso when the movable members are in their raised positions, the support members being positioned proximate a lower portion of the body when the movable members are in their lowered positions, the support members intersecting one another when the movable members are in their lowered positions.

Drawings

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a doll in a clothing position or configuration when mounted on a stand;

FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the doll of FIG. 1 in a position or configuration with wings when mounted on a stand;

FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of another embodiment of a doll in a costume position or configuration when mounted to a stand;

FIG. 4 illustrates a front view of the doll of FIG. 3 in a wing position or configuration when mounted on a stand;

FIG. 5 illustrates a front view of another embodiment of a doll in a costume position or configuration when mounted to a stand;

FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of the doll of FIG. 5 in a wing position or configuration when mounted on a stand;

FIG. 6A illustrates a back view of another embodiment of a toy figure in a wing position or configuration;

FIG. 6B illustrates a back view of the doll of FIG. 6A in a costume position or configuration;

FIG. 7 illustrates a front perspective view of an embodiment of the actuation assembly received within the torso with a front portion of the torso removed;

FIG. 8 illustrates some schematic components of an embodiment of an actuation assembly, a toy figure, and accessories for the toy figure;

FIG. 9 illustrates a front perspective view of some of the components of the embodiment of the doll body shown in FIGS. 1-6 in a costume configuration;

FIG. 9A illustrates a front perspective view of the doll shown in FIG. 9 in a wing configuration;

FIG. 10 illustrates a front view of an embodiment of an actuation assembly;

FIG. 11 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a toy figure having the actuation assembly shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 illustrates a view of a detent lock for the actuation assembly shown in FIGS. 10-11;

FIG. 13 illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment of an actuation assembly for a toy figure;

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of the actuation assembly and toy figure illustrated in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 illustrates a rear perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a doll with an actuation assembly when the doll is in a costume position or configuration;

FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of the doll shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 illustrates a side view of the doll shown in FIG. 15 when the doll is in a wing position or configuration;

FIG. 18 illustrates a partial interior view of some components of an embodiment of a toy figure;

FIG. 19 sets forth a front view of a portion of the back of the doll of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 illustrates a rear view of a portion of the front portion of the doll shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 21 sets forth a perspective view of the back of the doll of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective view of the front portion of the doll shown in FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of a connector of the doll shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 23A illustrates an interior view of some of the components of the doll shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of the doll arm of FIG. 18 and another connector coupled to the arm;

FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of an actuator of the doll shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 26 shows a perspective view of a clip (clip) of the doll shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 27 illustrates a side view of some of the components of the doll shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 28 illustrates a side view of some of the components of the doll of FIG. 18 in a costume configuration;

FIG. 29 illustrates an interior side view of some of the components of the doll shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 30 illustrates a side view of some of the components of the doll shown in FIG. 18 in a wing configuration;

FIG. 31 illustrates an interior view of some of the components of the doll shown in FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 illustrates a rear view of a portion of the doll shown in FIG. 18;

FIG. 33 illustrates an exploded view of some of the components of the doll shown in FIG. 32;

FIG. 34 illustrates a rear perspective view of an embodiment of a toy figure;

FIG. 35 illustrates an exploded perspective view of components of the doll wings illustrated in FIG. 34;

like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout the disclosure.

Detailed Description

It should be understood that terms such as "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "side", "height", "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "inner", "outer", and the like that may be used herein, merely describe points or portions of reference and do not limit the present invention to any particular orientation or configuration. Moreover, terms such as "first," "second," "third," and the like, merely identify one of many portions, features, and/or points of reference described herein, and do not limit the invention to any particular configuration or orientation or to any particular amount of such elements.

Figures 1-6 illustrate different examples of toy dolls that may be configured to represent human-like characters, licensed characters, copyrighted characters, or any other suitable fanciful or real-life character. The terms "character," "character," and "doll" are used interchangeably herein. Features of the doll 10 shown in figures 1 through 2 that correspond to features of the example shown in figures 3 through 17 have been given the same reference numerals for ease of description.

Figures 1-2 show the doll in a costume position or configuration and the doll in a wing position or configuration, respectively. Figures 3-4 illustrate another doll in a clothing position or configuration and the doll in a wing position or configuration, respectively. Similarly, fig. 5-6 illustrate another doll in a clothing position or configuration and the doll in a wing position or configuration, respectively.

Referring to fig. 1-2, doll 10 includes a head 12, a neck 14, a torso 16, a pair of arms 18 and 20 each having shoulder joints 22 and 24, and a pair of legs 26 and 28 (see fig. 2) forming a lower portion of doll 10. Each of the arms and legs may be referred to as an appendage (apendage) of doll 10. Doll 10 also includes a garment/wing that may be shaped as a butterfly wing. In alternative embodiments, the wings may have a configuration and shape different from butterfly wings. Each garment/wing may include a rigid support or skeleton, for example to retain a particular shape of the garment/wing, on which one or more layers of flexible material are mounted. The material may be a fabric material and the support may be a plastic member coupled to the fabric material.

Referring to fig. 1, doll 10 includes a garment or apparel portion 30 covering at least a portion of at least a lower portion of doll 10. Doll 10 with garment 30 is said to be in a garment position or configuration. The garment (address) 30 may be referred to as a garment-like structure. In this embodiment, skirt 30 covers legs 26 and 28 of doll 10. In alternative embodiments, the garment 30 may not cover the entire area of the legs 26 and 28. The garment 30 is formed by two skirts 31A and 31B that encircle the legs 26 and 28 of the doll 10. Although skirt 31A is described as covering skirt 31B, in another embodiment, skirt 31B may cover skirt 31A. The skirts 31A and 31B may also be referred to as a movable member or a movable portion. In this configuration, arms 18 and 20 of doll 10 are in a lowered or downward position relative to torso 16.

Referring to fig. 2, skirt or clothing portion 30 of doll 10 is transformed or deformed into wings 32 of doll 10. Wings 32 are formed by skirts 31A and 31B as shown. Each of wings 32 extends outwardly from torso 16 of doll 10. Doll 10 with wings 32 is said to be in a wing position or configuration. In this embodiment, wings 32 extend laterally outward from torso 16. Each wing 32 may be referred to as a wing-like structure.

As can be seen, doll 10 may further include a mechanism, such as an actuator assembly, that enables a user to transform doll clothing 30 into wings 32 via operation by the user. The mechanism may also allow a user to selectively latch the wings to a garment position as shown in fig. 1, 3, 5, 15, and 16 or a wing position as seen in fig. 2, 4, 6, and 17. In addition, the user may selectively manipulate wings 32 to vibrate.

Referring to fig. 2, doll 10 may be positioned on a base or chassis 34 and additionally includes a decorative corsage 36, a pair of shoes 38, and one or more accessories. It should be understood that corsage 36 and shoe 38 may or may not be removable from doll 10. For illustrative purposes, the accessories may include hair clips 40, hair bands 42 (as shown in fig. 3-4), and/or hair brushes 44. Although only a certain number of accessories are shown in these examples, doll 10 may include any number of accessories or no accessories, and any such accessories may be positioned anywhere within doll 10 and/or beside doll 10.

The various components and accessories of doll 10 may be made of any suitable material such as plastic, foam, flexible plastic, one or more layers of fabric, wood, cardboard, pressed paper, metal, or any combination of materials. Suitable materials or combinations of materials may be selected to provide the desired integration of weight, strength, durability, cost, and/or manufacturability.

Head 12 may be mounted to neck 14 of torso 16. Head 12 may be configured to be movable in any direction relative to torso 16 and further include human-like features having cosmetic and fashion hair styles.

Torso 16 may be partially or substantially hollow and may include front and rear portions that are joined together using suitable means, such as connectors or screws or a partial press fit connection, as described in more detail below. In one embodiment, the posterior and anterior portions of torso 16 may be permanently joined together at one or more points. Alternatively, the back and front portions may be non-permanently joined together for the purpose of repairing and/or replacing components of doll 10, if desired. As described in greater detail below, the rear portion of torso 16 may further include contoured slot openings for positioning the actuator rods to facilitate operative connection of the rods and the actuator assembly.

Arms 18 and 20 may be movably attached to torso 16 at shoulder joints 22 and 24, respectively. The shoulder joints 22 and 24 may be configured to operate through a relatively large degree of rotation. As can be seen, arms 18 and 20 may be rigidly connected together via arm connectors for simultaneous rotation relative to torso 16 along a common substantially horizontal axis. Alternatively, arms 18 and 20 may be movably attached to torso 16 such that each arm is independently rotatable about a respective shoulder joint 22 and 24. In addition, suitable stops may be provided to effectively prevent the arm from rotating beyond a prescribed point and/or to allow a desired clearance from wings 32 and/or other elements or components of doll 10.

Legs 26 and 28 may be movably attached to the lower portion of torso 16 at hip joints (not shown) to enable large angular rotation about a substantially horizontal axis. In some circumstances, however, it may be preferable to limit the relative rotational movement of legs 26 and 28 at the respective hip joints of doll 10. The legs 26 and 28 may be connected to the torso 16 by a common leg connector (not shown) configured to enable the legs 26 and 28 to assume a variety of positions in different pivotal positions. Moreover, legs 26 and 28 may be pivotally connected to each other or may be frictionally mounted to torso 16 to enable independent rotational movement at each hip joint of doll 10.

Referring to fig. 3-4, the garment for doll 10 has a different appearance than the garment for doll 10 of fig. 1-2. Except that doll 10 in fig. 3-4 has the same features and components as doll 10 in fig. 1-2, and that garment 30 and wings 32 in fig. 3-4 function in the same manner as in fig. 1. Similarly, doll 10 shown in fig. 5-6 has a similar functional garment 32 and wings 32.

Referring to fig. 6A and 6B, a back view of doll 10 is shown in a wing configuration and in a costume configuration, respectively. Referring to fig. 6A, doll 10 is in a wing configuration 4 with wings 32 deployed. Each garment or wing portion 31A and 31B is fully extended and arms 18 and 20 of doll 10 are in their raised position. Actuator 37 is shown in its lower position in figure 6A extending rearwardly from the back of doll 10.

Referring to fig. 6B, doll 10 is in a costume configuration 2 in which wings 32 of doll 10 are converted to costume 30. Flipping or support members (described in detail below) for the garment or wing portions 31B and 31A are connected to the couplers 33 and 35 for pivotal movement relative to the body of the toy figure 10. In this configuration, arms 18 and 20 are lowered and skirts 31A and 31B encircle the lower portion or leg of doll 10. Actuator 37 has been moved to an upper position relative to the back of doll 10 to move movable members or sections 31B and 31A to their lower or garment positions.

As seen in fig. 7-9, actuation assembly 70 of doll 10 may be housed within torso 16. The actuation assembly 70 may be mounted within the torso 16 by an internal support structure formed from a number of support members 71. A front or portion 72 of torso 16 (not shown in fig. 7) may be attached or connected to a back or portion 74 of torso 16 using screws 76, as further explained with reference to fig. 8. The screw 76 may be configured to fit to a fitting 78 having an opening formed in the interior of the torso back 74. Alternatively, the posts on the front portion 72 may be inserted into the mating portions 78.

The actuation assembly 70 may further include an elongated actuation bar, for example, a T-shaped actuation bar 80 having a first or outer end that projects or protrudes outwardly through a contoured slot opening 82 on the back 74 of the torso 16, as has been mentioned and shown previously in FIG. 8. The actuation lever 80 is operably positioned on an arm clutch (clutch)81 and may further include a button 79 secured to the actuation lever 80 with a pin 83. The button 79 is connected to the outer end of the actuation bar 80 and can be grasped or engaged by a user to move the actuation bar 80. As can be seen in fig. 7, the second or T-shaped end of the actuator rod 80 may be movably mounted within the internal support structure of the torso back 74 by a rod pin 84 to enable a limited amount of pivotal rotation of the actuator rod on the rod pin 84 or about the rod pin 84.

In the illustrated configuration, the actuation link 86 may operatively link the actuation rod 80 to the gear train assembly 88 by one or more rods or pins, such as a rivet pin 89. As can be seen, gear train assembly 88 may be configured to transmit relatively limited rotational movement of actuation bar 80 to large angular rotational movement of flipping or support members 90 and 92 forming the garment and wing portions.

The gear train assembly 88 may include one or more pinion gears 94 and 96, and the pinion gears 94 and 96 may be matingly engaged with or driven by the toothed regions of one or more wedge racks 98. The rack 98 may be configured to have any desired shape and/or cross-section to achieve its particular function. The rack 98 may have teeth along all or part of its surface and may be spring loaded. In this embodiment, the rack 98 may have two angled sides with spaced apart teeth along the two sides. Also, the rack 98 may be slidably retained within one or more of the internal structural support members 71 to allow linear reciprocating motion. It should be noted that the pinions 94 and 96 may have their respective axes offset by an angle, or alternatively may have their axes aligned.

Each pinion 94 and 96 may be operatively connected to an inclined stub shaft or post 100 and 102, respectively (shown in fig. 8), the stub shafts or posts 100 and 102 may extend outwardly through an aperture 104 on the back of the torso 16 and gear retainers 103 and 105. The outer end of the first post 100 may be forcibly mounted to a first coupling device 106 that may be attached to the first inversion or support member 90. Similarly, the outer end of the second post 102 may be forcibly mounted to a second coupling device 108 attached to the second flipping or support member 92. In one embodiment, the coupling devices 106 and 108 may be configured differently from one another such that a user connects the correct inversion or support member 90 or 92 to a particular coupling device 106 or 108. In other words, by configuring coupling devices 106 and 108 to be different from one another, a suitable assembly of support members 90 and 92 to doll 10 is achieved.

Arm connectors 110 and 112 may be rigidly attached at one of their ends to arms 18 and 20, respectively. To simultaneously rotate about a substantially horizontal axis. An arm gear 114 may be positioned between and rigidly secured to the arm connectors 110 and 112 to facilitate rotational movement of the arms 18 and 20 through the use of a crescent-shaped arm rack 116. The arm rack 116 may be operably connected to the actuation bar 80 and have a toothed area along all or a portion of its inner circumference. The toothed region of the arm rack 116 may be configured to matingly engage the toothed region of the arm gear 114 such that rotational movement of the actuation lever 80 about the lever pin 84 imparts rotational movement to the arm rack 116 and the arm connectors 110 and 112, thereby facilitating simultaneous rotation of the arms 18 and 20 from the lowered position to the raised position. As shown in fig. 1-6.

An arm brake 118 may be positioned on the arm gear 114 to cooperate with the arm gear 114 and the arm connectors 110 and 112 to limit and effectively prevent pivotal rotation of the arms 18 and 20 beyond a prescribed point. One or more resilient members, such as springs 120 (shown in fig. 8), may be positioned within the actuation assembly to facilitate flapping of the wings.

In assembled relation, the actuation bar 80, and more specifically the actuation link 86, may engage the rack 98 to move downward and simultaneously rotate the respective pinions 94 and 96 in the clockwise and counterclockwise directions. The rotation of pinions 94 and 96 facilitated by interconnection using couplings 106 and 108 may cause flipper or support members 90 and 92 to engage in a large rotational motion, thereby deforming doll garment 30 into wings 32.

Referring to fig. 9 and 9A, the movement and relative position of the invert or support members 90 and 92 are shown. The members 90 and 92 are shown in fig. 9 and 9A, while the remainder of the garment or wings are not shown for ease of reference. Flipping or support members 90 and 92 (shown fully in fig. 9) may be releasably held in a garment position or in a wing position. In this example, the user may lock the flipping or support members 90 and 92 into the wing position by pulling the actuation bar 80 downward to engage the internal locking mechanism. Pushing the actuation bar 80 in the opposite direction lowers the flip or support members 90 and 92 to the garment position.

The member 90 has a proximal end 90A, a distal end 90B, and a bend 90C between the two ends 90A and 90B. Similarly, the member 92 has a proximal end 92A, a distal end 92B, and a bend 92C between the two ends 92A and 92B. Referring to fig. 9, members 90 and 92 are shown in their lower position 6, which may be referred to as a garment position. When members 90 and 92 are in their lower position 6, doll 10 is in a costume position or configuration 2. As shown, bends 90C and 92C are configured to encircle the body of doll 10, thereby enabling members 90 and 92 to overlap one another in front of doll 10. The overlap or intersection of the members 90 and 92 results in an overlap of the garment or wing portions as described above with reference and shown in fig. 1, 3 and 5. Additionally, arms 18 and 20 of doll 10 are shown in a lower or downward position relative to the body of doll 10.

Referring to fig. 9A, the user has actuated the actuation assembly to move the flip or support members 90 and 92 and arms 18 and 20 upward. When actuated, the actuation assembly moves the members 90 and 92 upwardly and outwardly in the direction of arrows "A" and "B" to the upper or wing position 8. When members 90 and 92 are in their upper or wing position 8, doll 10 is in wing position or configuration 4. Concurrently with the movement of members 90 and 92, arms 18 and 20 of doll 10 are also moved to the upper or raised position.

The integral configuration of curved portions 90C and 92C and support members 90 and 92 results in distal ends 90B and 92B of members 90 and 92 extending upwardly and outwardly relative to the body of doll 10. When the garment or wing portions are coupled to the support members 90 and 92, the wing portions are positioned in their wing-fully extended or wing-like configuration when the support members 90 and 92 are in their position 8 shown in fig. 9A. The members 90 and 92 can be moved downwardly in the direction of arrows "C" and "D" to their lower or garment position 6 (see fig. 9).

In this example, doll 10 and actuating assembly 70 may have multiple components, as shown in FIG. 8 and described above. Various components are described herein and include the illustrated movement of the arms and the flipping or support members.

Fig. 10-12 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an actuation assembly 121, the actuation assembly 121 being configured for converting linear motion (represented by arrow L) of an actuation bar 122 into rotational motion of a flipping or support member (not shown in fig. 10-12). Actuation bar 122 may be rigidly secured to rack 124 by suitable means, such as a connector. The rack 124 may include teeth 125 along all or a portion of its perimeter and may be configured to engage the teeth 126 and 128 of a bevel gear (below gear). In one embodiment, the rack 124 has opposing sides with teeth 125 along each of the opposing sides. The rack 124 may be further operatively connected to the arm connectors 130 and 132 using arm connector gears 133. Arm connectors 130 and 132 may be rigidly attached at their outer ends to an arm (not shown) for simultaneous rotation about a substantially horizontal axis. Arm connector clutches 135 and 137 may be movably attached to respective arm connectors 130 and 32 to enable each arm to independently pivot about a respective shoulder joint. Arm connector clutches 135 and 137 may also be configured to prevent arm rotation beyond a specified point.

The user may push the actuation lever 122 downward such that the arm connector gear 133 and the bevel gears 126 and 128 engage the rack 124 and are simultaneously driven by the rack 124. Bevel gears 126 and 128 may have their respective shafts 140 and 142, which shafts 140 and 142 are operatively secured to respective flipper or support members via a point of rotation (not shown) to provide a large rotational movement, thereby translating doll garment 30 into wings 32.

Actuation assembly 121 may further include a locking mechanism that releasably holds the everting or support member in the wing position. By way of example, rack 124 may be locked in place by suitable means when actuating rod 122 is pushed downward past detent lock 134. Pushing the actuation lever 122 upward past the latch lowers the arm and returns the flip or support member to the garment position.

In this example, a resilient member or compression spring 136 may exert a force on the rack foot 124 and may surround the mounting stem 138. A compression spring 136 may be disposed between the bottom 124 of the rack and the lower portion of the doll's torso 16. The compression and release of the compression spring 136 may be mechanically powered by the motion of the actuation bar 12 and may cause the wings to flutter. Clutch assembly 146 of the wings may further prevent a user from accidentally damaging components of actuation assembly 121.

Fig. 13-17 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a doll having an actuation assembly 145 with two inclined posts 146 and 148 that may extend beyond the back of the doll 10, actuation assembly 145. A pair of upset or support members 160 and 162 are pivotally mounted to the respective posts 146 and 148. The actuator bar 154 may be connected to each flipping or support member by a rigid connecting wire 156 and 158, respectively, such that pushing the actuator bar 154 down may rotate the flipping or support members 160 and 162 from the clothing position to the wing position.

The actuation assembly 145 may further include the necessary springs, latches, levers, wires, detents, and connection points between the actuation bar 154 and the flipping or support members 160 and 162 to reverse the orientation of one portion relative to the other, or to enable a user to easily flutter wings positioned on the flipping or support members 160 and 162, or to lock the flipping or support members 160 and 162 in a clothing position or a wing position.

Referring to fig. 18-31, another embodiment of a toy figure is shown. In this embodiment, doll 200 has a body 210, with body 210 having a back or portion 212 that includes a neck or portion 214. The back 212 has two shoulder openings 216 and 218 formed therein. Guides 230 and 240 are integrally formed with back 212 (see fig. 18, 19 and 21).

Referring to fig. 18, doll 200 includes an arm 260 having an upper end 262 with an opening 264 formed therein. Similarly, doll 200 includes an arm 270 on the opposite side, arm 270 having an upper end 272 with an opening (not shown). The drive or actuation assembly 201 of doll 200 includes connectors 300 and 350 coupled to arms 270 and 260, respectively.

Referring to fig. 19-22, some of the components of doll 200 are shown. In fig. 19 and 21, the back 212 has several mounting elements 220, each of the mounting elements 220 including an opening 222. Guides 230 and 240 have surfaces 232 and 242 that include recesses 234 and 244, respectively. The connector 300 is disposed within the recess 244 and the connector 350 is disposed within the recess 234. Back 212 includes stops 236 and 246 that control or limit the movement of the arms of doll 200. The back 212 includes a rear wall 254 having an edge 256, the edge 256 defining a slot or opening 258 therethrough.

Referring to fig. 20 and 22, the front portion 211 has a neck portion 213 and a number of mounting elements 224, each of which is inserted into a corresponding opening 222 in the element 220 on the rear portion 212. The front portion 211 includes several guide portions 250 and 252, the guide portions 250 and 252 including a defining and stopping portion 250A and 252A, respectively. As shown in fig. 22, the front 211 also includes shoulder openings 217 and 219.

Referring to fig. 23, 23A and 24, different embodiments of the connector are shown. Connectors 300 and 350 are molded plastic components and are used to couple arms 260 and 270 to a drive or actuation assembly of doll 200. In fig. 23, connector 300 has a body portion 310 with opposing sides 312 and 314, sides 312 and 314 having extensions or couplers 316 and 318, respectively, extending therefrom. The body portion 310 is inserted into an opening formed in the upper end 272 of the arm 270. A shaft having several portions with different diameters is coupled to the body portion 310. The shaft includes sections 320 and 324 having a smaller diameter and sections 322 and 326 having a larger diameter. As shown in fig. 18, the portion 324 is aligned with the receiving rail 240 to allow the connector 300 and arm 270 to rotate.

Connector 300 also includes an end 330 in which an opening 334 defined by a wall 332 is formed. In this embodiment, opening 334 has a structure that mates with and receives the end of shaft 280 such that rotation of shaft 280 causes rotation of connector 300 and arm 270. Connector 300 includes tabs or projections 340 and 342 coupled to shaft portions 322 and 326 as shown. During different rotational movements of connector 300, tabs 340 and 342 engage different surfaces on the interior of doll 200. The tabs 340 and 342 may be integrally formed with the remainder of the connector 300 or formed separately from the connector 300 and subsequently coupled thereto. In this embodiment, the tabs 340 and 342 are of different sizes and configurations. In other embodiments, the size and configuration of the tabs 340 and 342 may be the same. The lugs 340 and 342 may be made of a relatively high friction material, such as a rubber material.

In one embodiment, the arm 260 has a desired range of motion and a desired position relative to the body 210. Tabs 340 and 342 are positioned such that a user will experience resistance when moving arm 260 beyond a desired range. In other words, when one of the tabs 340 and 342 engages a surface on the interior of the doll 200, further rotation or movement of the arm 270 becomes difficult so that the user knows that the arm 270 has reached the normal range. Additionally, when it is desired to deform doll 200 between the wing configuration and the costume configuration, the arms of doll 200 should be in a particular position relative to body 210 of doll 200. For example, arms 260 and 270 should be placed in a downward or inferior position relative to body 210 in order to reconfigure doll 200 from its costume configuration to a wing configuration. Similarly, arms 260 and 270 should be placed in a raised or elevated position relative to body 210 in order to reconfigure doll 200 from its wing configuration to a costume configuration.

To assist arm 270 in its proper position prior to reconfiguration of doll 200, tabs 340 and 342 function as guides. Arm 270 moves more freely within the recommended or desired position and range of motion. If arm 260 is not in its proper position prior to deformation, or if arm 270 is moved beyond its desired position, the user will experience increased resistance and friction. Thus, during play, when a user moves arms 260 and 270 in an undesirable manner or attempts to reconfigure doll 200 with arms 260 and 270 in an incorrect position, arms 260 and 270 may be moved and the bumps on connectors 300 and 350 may aid in the reconfiguration of doll 200 by creating a stiff or obstructed feel.

Referring to fig. 23A, the arms (only arm 260 is shown) have been rotated such that they extend rearwardly from the body of doll 200. When the arm is rotated from this position in the direction of arrow "M", the nubs 342 on the connector 300 wipe and slide along the surface 242 of the guide 240. The friction of the hub 342 with the surface 242 provides additional resistance to the user during rotation of the arm in and around this position, thereby alerting the user that the arm is not within the desired range of positions.

As shown in fig. 24, doll 200 includes another connector 350 that is similarly configured to connector 300. Connector 350 has the same configuration, but the location of bumps 390 and 392 on portions 376 and 372 are swapped compared to connector 300. As shown in fig. 24, connector 350 is inserted into an opening 264 formed in end 262 of arm 260. As shown in fig. 18, the connector 350 is aligned with the guide 230 and receives the guide 230, thus enabling the connector 350 and the arm 260 to rotate.

The connector 350 also includes an end portion having an opening 384 formed therein. Opening 384 receives the end of shaft 280 such that rotation of shaft 280 causes rotation of arm 260. During different rotational movements of coupler 350, tabs 390 and 392 engage different surfaces of the interior of doll 200. Tabs 390 and 392 function in the same manner as tabs 340 and 342 on connector 300. Tabs 390 and 392 are positioned such that they engage the inner surface of doll 200 at the same time as tabs 340 and 342, thereby performing the same function simultaneously.

Referring to fig. 25, an embodiment of a lever or actuator is illustrated. In this embodiment, the rod 400 includes a body 402, the body 402 having an inner end 404 and an outer end 406 that is external to the body 210 of the toy figure 200. The body 402 has opposite sides 408 and 410 and extensions 412 and 414 integrally formed with the body 402 and extending outwardly therefrom. The extensions 412 and 414 are aligned and include a passage 416 through which a pin or shaft 417 is inserted and extended to mount the rod 400 to the body 210. The shaft 417 defines an axis about which the lever 400 rotates or pivots.

The body 402 includes an extension 430, the extension 430 having a projection 432 extending from one side. The projection 432 acts as a stop or stop against movement of the arms 260 and 270. Holes or openings 418 and 420 are formed through the body 402 and are configured to receive connectors to couple the lever 400 to other components of a drive or actuation assembly, such as a connector or gear member. In this embodiment, the rod 400 includes a mounting portion 422, the mounting portion 422 having projections 424 and 426 integrally formed therewith. The mounting portion 422 is positioned outside the body as shown in fig. 27.

Referring to FIG. 26, an embodiment of a clip (clip) that may be used with the rod 400 is shown. In this embodiment, the clip 450 includes plates 452 and 454 coupled together spaced apart by supports 456 and 458. The supports 456 and 458 define an opening or space 460 therebetween. The space 460 is configured to receive the mounting portion 422 of the rod 400. As shown in FIG. 27, after the clip is slid onto the mounting portion 422 of the post 400 a sufficient distance, the projections 424 and 426 on the post 400 engage the surface 426 of the support 456, thereby preventing the clip 450 from being easily removed from the post 400. In one embodiment, the mounting portion 422 of the lever 400 includes one or more similar projections that extend outward and engage a surface of the clip 450 to retain the clip 450 on the lever 400. In one embodiment, the rod 400 is an integrally molded plastic article. Similarly, the clip 450 is also an integrally molded plastic article.

As shown in fig. 27, a user may contact plates 452 and 454 of clip 450 to move clip 450 and lever 400. The outer ends of the clip 450 and the rod 400 may be moved in the direction of arrow "I" to raise the arms and wings of the doll 200. Clip 450 and rod 400 may be moved in the direction of arrow "J" to lower the arms and wings of doll 200.

Referring to fig. 28-29, some components of doll 200 are shown in its costume configuration or position. The clip 450' shown in fig. 28-29 has a slightly different configuration than the clip 450 described above. The clip 450 ' has a receptacle into which the distal or outer end 406 ' of a rod 400 ', which is substantially identical to the rod 400, is inserted. The main difference is that the outer end 406 'of the rod 400' has an opening 407 'and the clip 450' has a support 458 'with an opening 459'. A connector may be inserted through the openings 407 'and 459' to couple the clip 450 'to the rod 400'.

In fig. 28 and 29, the lever 400 'and clip 450' are shown in their positions 403 corresponding to the clothing configuration of the toy figurine 200. As shown in fig. 29, arm 270 of doll 200 is in a lower position 271 with respect to the body of doll 200. In fig. 29, some of the components of the actuation assembly 201 of the toy figure 200 are shown. The lever 400 'is mounted to be pivotable about an axis 417, the axis 417 defining an axis 419, the lever 400' being pivotable about the axis 419.

The assembly 201 includes a link 470 coupled to the rod 400 'via a connector inserted through a hole 464 in the rod 400'. This connector facilitates movement of the link 470 relative to the lever 400 'as the lever 400' pivots. The link 470 is coupled to the rack 480 near the other end thereof. The rack 480 includes an upper end 482 having an opening 484 through which a connector may be inserted to couple the rack 480 to the rod 470. Rack 480 has opposite sides (only side 486 shown) with teeth 488 that engage a gear (not shown) coupled to a flip or support member of doll 200.

Referring to fig. 30, the lever 400 'and the clip 450' may be moved relative to the body 210 in the direction of arrow "K". Such movement causes the arm 260 to move upwardly relative to the body 210 to its raised or elevated position 263.

Referring to fig. 31, upon moving the lever 400 ' and clip 450 ' to their positions 405 in the direction of arrow "M", the lever 400 ' pivots about axis 419 in the respective direction of arrow "O". The link 470 moves in the corresponding direction of arrow "N" and the arm 270 moves to its raised position 273.

Referring back to fig. 18, as the user moves the clip 450 and the outer end of the lever 400 up and down, the lever 400 pivots about an axis 700 defined by the shaft 417 in the appropriate direction of arrow "E". The link 470 is coupled to the lever 400 and moves in the corresponding direction of arrow "F". The rack 480 is coupled to the link 470 and simultaneously moved via the link 470.

The rod 400 is also linked to a coupler 500, the coupler 500 being a generally arcuate member having opposite ends 502 and 506 and teeth 504 disposed along a surface near the end 502. The coupler 500 is slidably mounted to move on the torso of the body 210. As the lever 400 moves, the coupler 500 is also moved. The teeth 504 of the coupler 500 mesh with the teeth 288 of the gear 286, which gear 286 is coupled to the rotatably mounted shaft 280. As coupler 500 moves, the engagement of teeth 504 with teeth 288 causes shaft 280 to rotate about axis 702 in the appropriate direction of arrow "G". The shaft 280 has opposite ends 282 and 284 that are connected to the connectors 300 and 350. As the shaft 280 rotates, the arms 260 and 270 move via the connectors 300 and 350.

Referring to fig. 32 and 33, an embodiment of a toy figurine 200 showing the connection of a flip or support member is shown. In this embodiment, the toy figurine 200 has a back 212, and a portion of the actuation assembly 201 is coupled to the back 212. An optional clip 450 "is coupled to the rod 400, the rod 400 being mounted for movement along the slot 258 on the back 212.

Referring to fig. 32, doll 200 includes upset or support members 800 and 850 shown in their lowered or clothing position. The proximal end 802 and the bend 804 of the member 800 are shown. Similarly, proximal end 852 and curved portion 854 of member 850 are shown. The member 800 is mounted to a coupler 920 connected to the mount 900. The mount 900 is part of a bevel gear driven by a rack of a drive or actuation assembly. As the bevel gear rotates, the mount 900, coupler 920 and support member 800 rotate between the position shown in fig. 32 and the upper or wing position shown in fig. 33. Similarly, member 850 is mounted to coupler 960, and coupler 960 is connected to mount 910. The mount 910 is part of another bevel gear driven by the rack of the drive or actuation assembly. As the bevel gear rotates, the mount 910, coupler 960, and support member 850 rotate between the positions shown in fig. 32 and 33.

Member 800 includes a coupling mechanism 810, coupling mechanism 810 being used to mount member 800 to coupler 920. Similarly, member 850 includes a coupling mechanism 860, coupling mechanism 860 being used to mount member 850 to coupler 960. Each of the members 800 and 850 is releasably coupled to its respective coupler 920 and 960.

Referring to fig. 33, details of the coupling mechanisms 810 and 860 and the couplers 920 and 960 are shown. The coupling mechanism 810 includes a housing 812 having a number of walls 814, one of which includes an edge defining an opening 816 extending through the wall. The housing 812 includes tabs (tab)818 that extend outward from the ends of the housing 812 and extensions that extend from the sides of the housing 812. The walls of the housing 812 define a receptacle 825. The components of the coupling mechanism 810 may be integrally formed with the remainder of the support member 800. In this embodiment, the tab 818 has a length dimension L1 and a width dimension W1.

Similarly, coupling mechanism 860 includes a housing 862 having a number of walls 864, one of the number of walls 864 including an edge defining an opening 866 extending through the wall. The shell 862 includes tabs 868 that extend outwardly from the ends of the shell 862 and extensions that extend from the sides of the shell 862. The walls of the housing 862 define a receptacle (receptacle) 875. The components of the coupling mechanism 860 may be integrally formed with the remainder of the support member 850. Tab 868 has a length dimension L2 and a width dimension W2. In this embodiment, dimension L1 is different from dimension L2, and dimension W1 is different from dimension W2. Specifically, dimension L1 is smaller than dimension L2 because tab 818 is shorter than tab 868, and dimension W1 is larger than dimension W2 because tab 818 is wider than tab 868. In alternative embodiments, only one of the width and length dimensions may be different between the tabs.

Referring to fig. 33, the coupler 920 includes a body portion 922 having an extension 924, the extension 924 having a distal end 926. The extension 924 is inserted into an opening in the mount 900 and held therein by a friction fit. Optionally, the extension 924 may be retained in the opening of the mount 900 using a detent and recess arrangement (detent and recess). The body portion 922 includes tabs 930 that extend outwardly from the body portion 922. Flap 930 includes a projection 932 and an end 934 formed thereon, end 934 having sides 936 and 938 that collectively define a recess 939, recess 939 having a length dimension L3 and a width dimension W3. In this embodiment, dimensions L3 and W3 of coupler 920 correspond to dimensions L1 and W1, respectively, of coupling mechanism 810. Thus, when the housing 812 is slid onto the coupler 920 and the tab 930 is inserted into the receptacle 825, the protrusion 932 engages the opening 816 and the tab 818 fits within the recess 939.

Similarly, the coupler 960 includes a body portion 962 having an extension 964, the extension 964 having a distal end 966. Extension 964 is inserted into an opening in mount 910 and held therein by a friction fit. Alternatively, the extension 964 may be retained in the opening of the mount 910 using a detent and groove arrangement. The body portion 962 includes a tab 970 extending outwardly from the body portion 962. The flap 970 includes a protrusion 972 formed thereon and a tip 974, the tip 974 having sides 976 and 978 that collectively define a recess 979, the recess 979 having a length dimension L4 and a width dimension W4. In this embodiment, dimensions L4 and W4 of the coupler 960 correspond to dimensions L2 and W2, respectively, of the coupling mechanism 860. Thus, when the shell 862 is slid onto the coupler 960 and the tab 970 is inserted into the receptacle 875, the projection 972 engages the opening 866 and the tab 868 fits in the recess.

The use of different sized wings for coupling mechanisms 810 and 860 facilitates proper assembly of the components of doll 200. In particular, the user properly mounts support members 800 and 850 to doll 200 by determining that the parts can only be assembled together by a particular method. If support members 800 and 850 are not properly installed or assembled, the reconfiguration or conversion from wings to clothing and back would not be done properly because the curved portions of support members 800 and 850 are configured to wrap around a portion of doll 200 when doll 200 is in the clothing configuration.

The connection between the coupling mechanisms 810 and 860 and the couplers 920 and 960 is a press fit connection such that the parts are releasably secured to each other and can be disconnected if desired. Each of the support members 800 and 850, the couplers 920 and 960, and the mounts 900 and 910 is made of plastic.

Referring to fig. 34 and 35, a garment or wing portion 1000 is mounted to support member 800 and a garment or wing portion 1020 is mounted to support member 850. In one embodiment, wing portion 1000 is formed using two layers 1002 and 1006 of material, such as fabric layers coupled together by stitches (tacking) 1004. As shown, layers 1002 and 1006 are printed or otherwise coupled with different decorations and finishes. Layers 1002 and 1006 are coupled together to form a receptacle into which support member 800 may be inserted and retained. Similarly, garment or wing portion 1020 also includes stitches 1024 and layers that form a receptacle 1030, into which receptacle 1030 support member 850 is inserted.

In one embodiment, support members 800 and 850 have a circular or substantially circular cross-section such that they are rotatable within receptacles of the respective garment or wing portion. Thus, because support members 800 and 850 are rotated when the user operates the actuation assembly, support members 800 and 850 slide and rotate within movable portions 1000 and 1020 as portions 1000 and 1020 move between the dress and wing configuration of doll 200.

In an alternative embodiment, the garment and wing portions may be made of relatively rigid materials. In another embodiment, each flipping or support member may be formed from multiple elements or components coupled together that facilitate encircling or bending around the torso of the doll by the support member.

While embodiments and methods of use of the toy have been shown and described, many variations are possible. The present disclosure may include one or more independent or interdependent embodiments involving various combinations of features, functions, elements, and/or properties. Other combinations and sub-combinations are considered to be included in the subject matter of the present disclosure. Thus, the foregoing embodiments are exemplary, and no single feature or element, or combination thereof, is essential to all possible combinations that may be claimed in this or a later application. Each example defines an embodiment disclosed in the foregoing disclosure, but any example does not necessarily encompass all features or combinations that may be ultimately claimed.

Claims (20)

1. A reconfigurable doll, comprising:

a body comprising a torso and at least one arm movably connected to the torso;

a movable portion connected to the body, the movable portion being arrangeable in a first position proximate to the body, in which the movable portion forms part of a garment of the body, and a second position spaced from the body, in which the movable portion forms part of a wing of the body; and

an actuation assembly connected to the body, the actuation assembly connected to the at least one arm and the activity portion, the actuation assembly manipulable by a user to move the activity portion from the first position to the second position and move the at least one arm relative to the torso.

2. The reconfigurable doll of claim 1, wherein the body includes a lower portion and the movable portion is proximate the lower portion of the body in the first position thereof.

3. The reconfigurable doll of claim 1, wherein the at least one arm moves substantially simultaneously with the movable portion.

4. The reconfigurable doll of claim 3, wherein the at least one arm has an upper position and a lower position relative to the body, the at least one arm extending upwardly from the body in the upper position thereof and being positioned proximate to the body in the lower position thereof.

5. The reconfigurable doll of claim 1, wherein the movable portion is a first movable portion, and the doll further comprises:

a second active portion connected to the body, the second active portion being arrangeable in a first position of its own close to the body, in which first position the second active portion forms part of the garment of the body, and a second position of its own spaced apart from the body, in which second active portion forms part of the wings of the body.

6. The reconfigurable doll of claim 5, wherein the second movable portion is moved substantially simultaneously with the first movable portion.

7. The reconfigurable doll of claim 5, wherein the first movable portion overlies a portion of the second movable portion when the movable portion is in its first position.

8. The reconfigurable doll of claim 5, wherein each of the movable portions includes a support member having a proximal end connected to the torso and an opposite distal end, the distal ends of the support members intersecting one another when the movable portions are moved from their second positions to their first positions.

9. The reconfigurable doll of claim 1, wherein the actuator assembly includes an actuator extending outwardly from the body, the actuator being manipulable by a user to move the movable portion.

10. The reconfigurable doll of claim 1, wherein the movable portion includes a support member pivotally coupled to the torso of the doll and a flexible member coupled to the support member.

11. The reconfigurable doll of claim 10, wherein the support member includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a curved portion between the proximal end and the distal end, the proximal end being coupled to the body.

12. The reconfigurable doll of claim 11, wherein the distal end extends outwardly away from the body when the movable portion is in its second position, and the curved portion extends around a portion of the torso of the body when the movable portion is in its first position.

13. A reconfigurable doll, comprising:

a body comprising a torso and a lower portion;

a movable member connected to the body, the movable member being arrangeable in an upper position and a lower position relative to the body, the movable member being spaced apart from the body and forming a wing-like structure in the upper position and being positioned proximate to a lower portion of the body and forming a garment-like structure in the lower position; and

an actuation assembly connected to the body, the actuation assembly being connected to the movable member of the torso of the body such that a user can manipulate the actuation assembly to move the movable member between its upper and lower positions.

14. The reconfigurable doll of claim 13, wherein the movable member is a first movable member, the doll further comprising:

a second movable member connected to the body and to the actuating assembly, the movable members collectively forming a garment when the movable members are in their lower position and a pair of wings when the movable members are in their upper position, the movable members being moved substantially simultaneously between their upper and lower positions via the actuating assembly.

15. The reconfigurable doll of claim 14, wherein the body includes a first arm and a second arm movably coupled to the torso, the actuation assembly being coupled to the first arm and the second arm such that a user can manipulate the first arm and the second arm substantially simultaneously relative to the body when the first and second movable members are moved.

16. The reconfigurable doll of claim 15, wherein the arms are moved from the lower position to the upper position substantially simultaneously as the movable members are moved from their lower position to their upper position.

17. The reconfigurable doll of claim 16, wherein the actuation assembly includes an actuator and a drive mechanism coupled to the actuator, the drive mechanism being coupled to the arm and to the movable member such that movement of the actuator causes movement of the arm and movable member relative to the body.

18. The reconfigurable doll of claim 13, wherein the body includes first and second arms movably coupled to the torso, and the actuation assembly is coupled to the first and second arms such that a user can manipulate the first and second arms relative to the body when the movable member is moved.

19. A reconfigurable doll, comprising:

a body including a torso, a lower portion, and arms movably connected to the torso, the arms being disposable in a raised position and a lowered position relative to the body;

-moving members connected to the body, the moving members being positionable in a raised position and a lowered position relative to the body, the moving members being spaced apart from the body in their raised position and forming a wing-like structure, the moving members being positioned proximate to a lower portion of the body in their lowered position and forming a garment-like structure; and

an actuator connected to the arm and the movable member, the actuator configured to move the movable member between its raised and lowered positions substantially simultaneously with movement of the arm between its raised and lowered positions.

20. The reconfigurable doll of claim 19, wherein each of the movable members includes a support member pivotally connected to the body, the support members extending outwardly from the torso when the movable members are in their raised positions, the support members being positioned proximate a lower portion of the body when the movable members are in their lowered positions, the support members intersecting one another when the movable members are in their lowered positions.