Field
This invention relates to toy assemblies, and more particularly, relates to toy assemblies for creating designs out of beads fused together by drying after applying liquid to the beads.
Description of the Related Art
Toy assemblies can allow for the creation of a structure out of multiple components. Assemblies may include several interlocking pieces that can be attached and detached. Components may also be attached by applying an adhesive, by heating the pieces to fuse pieces together using heat sources such as an iron or oven, or by engaging multiple components with a connecter such as a string, wire, thread, screw, or fastener.
In certain embodiments, a system for creating and fixing an array of polygon shaped plastic beads together to form a design is disclosed. The system includes a tray having a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the tray and a plurality of polygon shaped beads. Each of the beads includes a receptacle configured to receive one of the plurality of pins so as to anchor to the tray and form an array of beads. Each bead is sized and shaped to achieve sufficient contact with an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead once dry after a liquid is applied to the array.
Embodiments further include a template having a plurality of apertures arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins when the template is disposed on the tray and below the plurality of beads. The template can also include a design configured to guide the placement of the plurality of beads. The tray and template can also be configured so that when the template is engaged to the tray, the design is oriented in a particular direction on the tray. The system can also be configured so that removal of the template from the tray causes the removal of the plurality of beads from the tray.
The tray, template, and beads may further be configured to allow for the draining of liquid from the system. The tray may have multiple perimeter members to allow for draining from the tray. The beads may have a plurality of dimples configured to engage the tray or template to allow for the flow of liquid between the beads and the tray or template. The beads may also include one or more shaped edges to facilitate the flow of liquid between beads and between the beads and the tray or template.
In another embodiment, a toy system for creating and fixing an array of polygon shaped plastic beads together to form a design is disclosed. The system includes a tray having a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the tray and a plurality of beads made from a material. Each bead has a plurality of planar outer surfaces and a receptacle. The receptacle is configured to receive one of the plurality of pins so as to anchor to the tray and form an array. Each of the plurality of planar outer surfaces is configured to achieve sufficient contact with an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead when dry after a liquid is applied to the array.
In another embodiment, a bead for fusing together with an adjacent bead is disclosed. The bead has a body with a plurality of planar outer surfaces and a receptacle. The receptacle is configured to releasably receive a pin. Each of the plurality of planar outer surfaces is configured to achieve sufficient contact with an outer surface of an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead when dry after a liquid is applied to the bead and the adjacent bead.
In another embodiment, a toy system for creating and fixing an array of polygon shaped plastic beads together to form a design is disclosed. The system includes a tray having an upper surface and a plurality of polygon shaped beads made from a material. Each bead is sized and shaped to achieve sufficient contact with an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead when dry after a liquid is applied to the plurality of beads when the plurality of beads is arranged to form an array on the upper surface of the tray.
In another embodiment, a toy system for creating and fixing a plurality of polygon shaped beads together to form a design is disclosed. The system includes a lower tray having a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the lower tray and an upper tray having a plurality of apertures arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins when the upper tray is disposed on the lower tray. The plurality of pins are sized and shaped to receive the plurality of polygon shaped beads. The upper tray is at least partially transparent.
In another embodiment, a toy system for creating and fixing a plurality of polygon shaped beads together to form a design is disclosed. The system includes a lower tray having a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the lower tray, an upper tray having a plurality of apertures arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins when the upper tray is disposed on the lower tray and below the plurality of polygon shaped beads, and a template having one or more visual indications thereon. The one or more visual indications are configured to indicate one or more positions on the lower tray for placement of one or more of the plurality of polygon shaped beads.
In another embodiment, a toy system for creating and fixing a plurality of polygon shaped beads together to form a tiered bead design is provided. The system includes a base and a tray coupled to the base so as to rotate more than 90 degrees relative to the base about an axis between a first position and a second position. The tray is configured to receive a plurality of polygon shaped beads when in the first position and facilitate ejection of the plurality of polygon shaped beads when in the second position.
The features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will now be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.
The following detailed description is directed to certain specific embodiments. The invention(s) disclosed herein, however, can be embodied in a multitude of different ways as defined and covered by the claims. In this description, reference is made to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated with like numerals throughout. The features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings of several embodiments that are intended to be within the scope of the development herein disclosed. These and other embodiments will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the embodiments having reference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited to any particular embodiment(s) herein disclosed.
The tray 110 includes a plurality of pins 112 extending from an upper surface of the tray 110. The template 120 includes a plurality of apertures 122. The plurality of pins 112 is configured to receive the plurality of apertures 122 and then engage with the plurality of beads 130. The template 120 can removably receive the plurality of pins 112. The beads 130 can removably engage the plurality of pins 112, both when the template 120 is engaged to the plurality of pins 112 and in the absence of the template 120.
The plurality of beads 130 can be made of a material that is water soluble. When liquid is applied to the beads 130, the wetted outer surfaces of the beads 130 adhere to adjacent and contacting surfaces of beads 130 by partially dissolving. Exemplary materials for the beads 130 include inert plastic materials. The beads 130 may further include an embittering agent to make the beads 130 unpalatable to the user. Liquid may be applied to the plurality of beads 130 as a spray or mist. Liquid can also be applied by contacting the beads 130 with a liquid imbued material such as a sponge or rag. In certain embodiments, the array of beads 130 on the tray 110 may be submerged in a pool of liquid or may be translated across a fluid path such as an outflow of water from a faucet or hose.
Each of the plurality of beads 130 can be sized and shaped to achieve contact with one or more adjacent contacting beads 130 so as to adhere to the one or more adjacent beads 130 once dry after liquid is applied, allowing for the formation of a fused array of beads 130. The fused array of beads 130 adhere between surfaces of adjacent contacting beads 130. The template 120 can be configured to facilitate removal of the plurality of beads 130 from the tray 110. For example, when removing the template 120 when the template 120 is positioned between the tray 110 and the plurality of beads 130, a top surface of the template contacts a bottom surface of the plurality of beads 130. As the template 120 is pulled away from the top surface of the tray 110, the template 120 causes the plurality of beads 130 to slide towards a distal end of the plurality of pins 112 and eventually disengage from the pins 112.
The template 120 and the plurality of beads 130 can be configured so that minimal or no adhesion occurs between the plurality of beads 130 and the template 120, allowing for the removal of the fused array of beads 130 from the template 120 after the template 120 is removed from the tray 110.
The plurality of pins 112 can be disposed on the tray 110 in a 2D array of rows and columns. In certain embodiments, the pins 112 have a variable length so that the beads 130 can be arranged in three dimensions. The plurality of pins 112 can also be spaced so that one or more side surfaces of a bead in the plurality of beads 130, as depicted in
The protrusions 115 can be configured to engage the template 120, as shown in
The handles 118 facilitate the user moving the tray 110. The lip members 119 can be configured to provide support for the tray 110. For embodiments where the handles 118 are disposed on the top of the lip members 119, the lip members 119 increase the height of the handles 118. A gap may be provided between the lip members 119 at the location of the handles 118 to allow for access to the bottom of the handle 118.
The perimeter members 116 can be configured to allow liquid to drain from the tray 110. The perimeter members 116 may also be configured to allow access to the bottom of the template 120 when the template 120 is placed on the tray 110.
In some embodiments, the tray 110 may further include one or more drains configured to allow excess liquid to pass through the tray 110. The one or more drains may be located between some of the plurality of pins 112, or on the surface of the tray 110 around the periphery of the plurality of pins 112. In some embodiments, the tray 110 can further include one or more removable stoppers configured to open and close the one or more drains. The one or more stoppers may be configured to rotate across a surface of the tray 110 to allow or block flow of liquid through the one or more drains. The one or more stoppers may be oriented on either a top or bottom surface of the tray 110. The tray 110 may further include one or more receptacles or recesses for collecting excess liquid below the top surface of the tray 110.
In certain embodiments, the tray 110 may not comprise a plurality of pins 112, but instead, the plurality of beads 130 may be placed on a surface of the tray 110. The surface of the tray 110 can include an adhesive material, such as a putty, for releasably fixing the beads 130 into an array on the tray 110. Alternatively, the adhesive material may be attached to a surface of each of the plurality of beads 130 or may be a separate component that can be applied to either the tray 110 or to the plurality of beads 130.
In certain embodiments, the tray 110 can comprise a plurality of channels, wherein each bead 130 can be inserted into one of the plurality of channels and the orientation of the tray 110 can be altered to allow for translational movement of the bead 130 within the channel due to the effects of gravity. Each channel can be configured to restrict the movement of the beads 130 in one or more directions. One or more channels may also be configured to allow for the application of liquid to the array of beads 130.
In some embodiments, the tray 110 may be made of a transparent or semi-transparent material. The tray 110 can also include a design on the surface of the tray 110. The design can be configured to guide the placement of the plurality of beads 130 onto one or more of the plurality of pins 112 so that a fixed array of beads can be formed in accordance with the design. In such an embodiment, the template 120 need not be used.
In some embodiments, the plurality of pins 112 can be configured so that the tops of the plurality of pins 112 are located at different heights such that the differences in height of adjacent pins 112 is small enough to allow for the side surfaces of each bead 130 to contact the side surfaces of one or more adjacent beads 130.
Each of the plurality of pins 112 can be configured to engage an aperture of the plurality of apertures 122 and a bead of the plurality of beads 130. In certain embodiments, the plurality of pins 112 may include one or more chamfered or radiused edges, such as shaped edge 114. The shaped edge 114 forms a transition surface between surfaces or vertices of the pins 112. The shaped edge 114 may be flat, curved, or have any other shape connecting the surfaces or vertices. The shaped edge 114 can be sized to facilitate anchoring of the plurality of beads 130 to the plurality of pins 112. The plurality of pins 112 may have a hexagonal cross-section. Alternatively, the shape of the cross-section of the pins 112 may be, but is not limited to, square, round, rectangular, triangular, diamond shaped, or octagonal.
In some embodiments, the plurality of pins 112 may include a diverse assortment of cross-section shapes, allowing for the engagement of multiple shapes of beads. As depicted in
The template 120 may be made of any material. For example, in certain embodiments the template 120 comprises polypropylene (“PP”). The template can also comprise acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (“ABS”). The plurality of apertures 122 is arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins 112 when the template 120 is disposed on the tray 110. The template 120 may be flexible, allowing for manipulation of sections of the template 120 to facilitate engagement to or removal from the tray 110. The template 120 can also comprise a hard rigid material to facilitate removal of the array of beads 130. In certain embodiments, the template 120 includes both flexible and rigid sections.
The tab 126 of the template 120 does not include apertures and can be configured to extend beyond an edge of the tray 110. The tab 126 can provide a surface for a drawing, text, or logo. The tab 126 may also provide a handle for a user adjusting or removing the template 120. The template 120 can include a design in the area having the plurality of apertures 122, such as the design 228, as depicted in
In certain embodiments, the template 120 is used primarily for removal of the plurality of beads 130. In certain embodiments, the system 100 may include a secondary template having the design 228. The secondary template can be configured to engage the plurality of pins 112 between the tray 110 and the template 120 or between the template 120 and the plurality of beads 130. The secondary template may also be configured for placement beneath the tray 110. In such embodiments, the tray 110 and template 120 can comprise a transparent or semi-transparent material to allow the design 228 to be visible when placing the plurality of beads 130. The secondary template may also be configured for use separate from the tray 110 and template 120 as a design reference.
The one or more notches 124 can be configured to engage with the one or more protrusions 115 of the tray 110, as depicted in
The plurality of beads 130 can be made of a material that allows for adhesion or fusion once dry after liquid is applied. For example, the material may be primarily polyvinyl alcohol (“PVA”). The plurality of beads 130 can be made in a variety of different polygonal shapes and colors. For example, the beads 130 can include cubes, pyramids, cones, cylinders, spheres, hemispheres, polyhedrons, or combinations of various shapes. In some embodiments, a plurality of beads 130 can include multiple different shapes of beads 130. In some embodiments, the beads 130 can be configured to change color in response to, for example, the application of liquid. Each of the plurality of beads 130 can be sized and shaped to achieve contact with one or more adjacent beads 130 so as to adhere or fuse to the one or more adjacent beads 130 once dry after liquid is applied.
The receptacle 132 in each bead 130 is configured to engage one of the plurality of pins 112 as depicted in
The one or more edges 134, 136, 138 can be configured to facilitate liquid contacting adjacent beads 130. For example, the edge 134 is a radius and disposed on an edge of a top surface of the bead 130. The edge 134 can be configured to form a channel or partial gap for liquid to penetrate below the top surface of the plurality of beads 130 and between adjacent beads 130, as further depicted in
The sides 140 of each of the beads 130 can be substantially smooth and uniform. Having a gate mark on a side of a bead 130 can affect the bond between beads when liquid is applied. In some embodiments, a width of one or more of the edges 134, 136, 138 is selected to support a gate so that the gate does not interfere with the sides 140 of the beads 130. In some embodiments, the plurality of beads 130 may have one or more sharp edges that do not include a chamfer or radius.
The one or more dimples 142 extend from the bottom surface of the bead 130 to provide a gap or space between the bead 130 and the template 120 when the bead 130 is engaged with the pin 112. For embodiments that do not include the template 120, the one or more dimples contact the tray 110. The dimples 142 can be configured to provide a gap between the bottom surface of the bead and the surface of the tray 110 or the template 120. The gap may prevent the adherence of the bottom surface of the bead 130 to the template 120 at locations between the dimples 142. The dimples can be disposed around the periphery of the receptacle 132. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of beads 130 can include four dimples 132. The dimples may have rounded edges for contacting the surface of the tray 110 or the template 120.
In some embodiments, the plurality of beads 130 can include dimples 142 on multiple surfaces of the plurality of beads 130. For example, the plurality of beads 130 can include one or more dimples 142 on the top surface and bottom surface of each bead. In certain embodiments, the dimples 142 can be configured to allow liquid to flow between the multiple layers of the plurality of beads 130. The dimples 142 can allow for one or more of the plurality of beads 130 to be stacked on top of other beads in the plurality of beads 130 to form a three dimensional object. In certain embodiments, beads 130 not having dimples 142 are stacked on beads 130 which increases the contact or fused area between the layers of beads 130.
In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of beads 130 can include a pin or stud on the top surface of each bead 130. The pin or stud can be configured to engage a receptacle 132 of one of the plurality of beads 130. The pin or stud can be shaped like one of the pins 112 of the tray 110, allowing for multiple vertical layers of beads 130 creating the three dimensional object. In certain embodiments, the pins or studs are located on the top surface of the bead 130 to allow stacking of beads 130 forming straight columns of beads 130 or to allow beads 130 to be stacked over two side-by-side beads 130. For example, half of a stacked bead 130 could be over one of the side-by-side beads 130 while the other half of the stacked bead 130 is over the other one of the side-by-side beads 130.
In some embodiments, each of the receptacles 132 of the beads 130 can be configured to extend through to the top surface of the bead 130. In such an embodiment, a length of the pin 112 can be selected to enter the bottom surface of the bead 130 and protrude from the top surface of the bead 130, allowing for one or more other beads 130 to engage the pin 112 creating the three dimensional object.
In certain embodiments, one or more of the pins 112 are releasable from the tray 110. In such an embodiment, a user may press one or more of the pins 112 into recesses or holes in the tray 110 or remove one or more of the pins 112 from the recesses or holes.
In certain embodiments, the one or more pins 112 may have variable lengths or heights. In embodiments where the one or more pins 112 are releasable from the tray 110, the user may select certain length pins 112 to press into certain recess or holes in the tray 110 to create a framework for arranging one or more stacks of beads 130 on the tray 110 into the three dimensional object. For example, the user may engage a single bead 130 with a standard length pin 112 of the tray 110 while also stacking two or more beads 130 on a longer length pin 112. In certain embodiments, the one or more pins 112 have the same length while the one or more recesses or holes allow the user to vary how much each of the one or more pins 112 is placed in the recess or hole creating the framework for arranging one or more stacks of beads 130 on the tray 110 into the three dimensional object. To facilitate the user selecting the correct depth of insertion for the one or more pins 112, the pins 112 and or recesses or holes may include one or more index marks along the length of the one or more pins 112 or along the length of the recess or hole. In this way, variable portions of the pins 112 extend above and below the tray 112.
In some embodiments, a three dimensional building system may also be provided that can allow for the layering of multiple two dimensional arrays of beads 130 to create a three dimensional object. Such a system can be configured to align multiple layers of beads in the absence of the plurality of pins 112. For example, a three dimensional printer may be used to orient and place multiple layers of beads 130.
The cross-sectional view depicted in
Alternatively, the toy system 100 may be configured so that the user can remove the plurality of beads 130 by pulling on one or more of the plurality of beads 130 in a direction away from the tray 120 or by applying a force to the surface of the plurality of beads 130 facing the template 120. The system 100 may further include a tool configured to fit between one or more beads of the plurality of beads 130 or under the plurality of beads 130. The tool can be configured to fit between the plurality of beads 130 and the tray 110 or template 120 and to allow for removal by applying a force to the tool.
The plurality of beads 230 can include any of features described herein with respect to the plurality of beads 130. During use, each of the plurality of beads 230 is arranged to create a desired design on the lower tray 210 by engaging the bead with a pin 212 at a desired location on the lower tray 210. Liquid is then applied to the design of beads 230. Once dry, the beads 230 of the design are fused together. In certain embodiments, the template 220 is disposed beneath the lower tray 210. In certain embodiments, the template 220 provides a guide or design for the user when locating beads 230 on the pins 212 to achieve the desired design. The template 220 can include colored regions to guide placement of correspondingly colored beads 230.
The lower tray 210 can include any of the features described herein with respect to the tray 110. The lower tray 210 includes the plurality of pins 212 extending from an upper surface of the lower tray 210. The upper tray 260 includes a plurality of apertures 222. The plurality of pins 212 is configured to receive the plurality of apertures 222 and then engage with the plurality of beads 230. The upper tray 260 can removably receive the plurality of pins 212. The beads 230 can removably engage the plurality of pins 212, both when the upper tray 260 is engaged to the plurality of pins 212 and in the absence of the upper tray 260.
In some embodiments, the lower tray 210 comprises a rigid material. For example, the lower tray 210 can comprise a rigid polymer. In some embodiments, the lower tray 210 can comprise one or more of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, or any other suitable material.
As described herein with respect to the plurality of beads 130, each of the plurality of beads 230 can be sized and shaped to achieve contact with one or more adjacent contacting beads 230 so as to adhere to the one or more adjacent beads 230 once dry after liquid is applied, allowing for the formation of a fused array of beads 230. The fused array of beads 230 adhere between surfaces of adjacent contacting beads 230. The upper tray 260 can be configured to facilitate removal of the plurality of beads 230 from the tray 210. For example, when removing the upper tray 260 when the upper tray 260 is positioned between the lower tray 210 and the plurality of beads 230, a top surface of the upper tray 260 contacts a bottom surface of the plurality of beads 230. As the upper tray 260 is pulled away from the top surface of the lower tray 210, the upper tray 260 lifts the plurality of beads 230 so that they slide towards a distal end of the plurality of pins 212 and eventually disengage from the pins 212.
The upper tray 260 and the plurality of beads 230 can be configured so that minimal or no adhesion occurs between the plurality of beads 230 and the upper tray 260, allowing for the removal of the fused array of beads 230 from the upper tray 260 after the upper tray 260 is removed from the lower tray 210.
In some embodiments, the upper tray 260 comprises a rigid material. For example, the upper tray 260 can comprise a rigid polymer. In some embodiments, the upper tray 260 can comprise one or more of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, or any other suitable material.
The template 220 preferably includes a design 229. The design 229 can be configured to guide the placement of the plurality of beads 230 onto one or more of the plurality of pins 212 so that a fixed array of beads 230 can be formed in accordance with the design 229. The template 220 can be configured such that lines and other elements of the design 229 can be aligned with the plurality of pins 212 so that the plurality of beads 230 can engage the plurality of pins 212 in accordance with the design 229. Preferably, the upper tray 260 and lower tray 210 are transparent or semi-transparent to facilitate visibility of the design 229 prior to placement of the plurality of beads 230. In some embodiments, the entirety of the upper tray 260 and lower tray 210 consist of a transparent or semi-transparent material. Alternatively, sections of the upper tray 260 and lower tray 210 are transparent or semi-transparent, such as for example, the sections of the upper tray 260 and lower tray 210 that are positioned over the design 229 when the template 220 is aligned with the lower tray 210 and upper tray 260.
When a liquid, for example water, is administered to the plurality of beads 230, the plurality of beads 230 will fuse or adhere together once dry to form an array of beads representative of the design 229. The design 229 may include color to indicate which color of bead 230 should be engaged with a specific pin 212. In some embodiments, the template 220 includes a design on both the front and back surfaces of the template 220. In some embodiments, the template 220 will be configured to allow for writing, drawing, or printing so that a design can be customized by the user. For example, a software application can be used to create a design, such as design 229. The design can be printed on to the template 220. The software application may be internet based and can allow for the sharing of designs 229. It should be recognized that the design 229 need not be present in order for an array of beads to be formed.
The plurality of pins 212 can be disposed on the lower tray 210 in a 2D array of rows and columns. In certain embodiments, the pins 212 have a variable length so that the beads 230 can be arranged in three dimensions. The plurality of pins 212 can also be spaced so that one or more side surfaces of a bead in the plurality of beads 230, as depicted in
In some embodiments, the plurality of pins 212 can be configured so that the tops of the plurality of pins 212 are located at different heights such that the differences in height of adjacent pins 212 is small enough to allow for the side surfaces of each bead 230 to contact the side surfaces of one or more adjacent beads 230.
The protrusions 215 can be spaced to engage the upper tray 260. The protrusions 215 can extend from the upper surface of the lower tray 210 such that a top surface of the protrusions 215 has a height greater than the top surface of the edge 217 of the lower tray 210. When engaged with the upper tray 260, the protrusions 215 can inhibit rotary movement of the upper tray 260 relative to the lower tray 210 as well as provide guidance for the user to correctly align the upper tray 260 on the top surface of the lower tray 210 during engagement. The protrusions 215 may also extend laterally from the adjacent sections of the edge 217 and can function as handles to facilitate movement of the lower tray 210 by the user. The protrusions 215 may also act as visual reference points for alignment of the template 220 with the lower tray 210. In some embodiments, the protrusions 215 can include a textured surface to facilitate gripping of the protrusions 215.
The plurality of apertures 222 is arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins 212 when the upper tray 260 is disposed on the lower tray 210. The tabs 262 of the upper tray 260 do not include apertures and can be configured to extend beyond the edge 217 of the lower tray 210. The tabs 262 can function as handles for a user adjusting or removing the upper tray 260. The tabs 262 can include a textured surface to facilitate gripping of the tabs 262.
The lip members 264 can be configured to extend from the bottom surface of the upper tray 260 and to fit over sections of the edge 217 of the lower tray 210 adjacent to the protrusions 218 when engaged with the lower tray 210. When engaged with the lower tray 210, the lip members 264 can inhibit rotary movement of the upper tray 260 relative to the lower tray 210 as well as provide guidance for the user to correctly align the upper tray 260 on the top surface of the lower tray 210 during engagement.
In the building configuration shown in
In the stacking configuration, the layer of the plurality of beads 330 is positioned upside down above a top surface of the stack tray 315. Consequently, the lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 are positioned above the top surface of the stack pate 315 and generally parallel thereto. When in the stacked position, a disengagement mechanism can be activated to disassociate the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from the pins 312 of the lower tray 310 such that the layer of the plurality of beads 330 is deposited onto the top surface of the stack tray 315.
After the layer of the plurality of beads 330 is deposited onto the stack tray 315, the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310, and upper tray 360 can be rotated about the axis 325 of the hinge 308 to the building position wherein a second layer of the plurality of beads can be arranged to create a desired design on the lower tray 310 by engaging the second layer of the plurality of beads with the pins 312 at a desired location on the lower tray 310. The handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310, upper tray 360 and the layer of the second plurality of beads can be flipped upside down while being rotated about the axis 325 of the hinge 308 to deposit the second plurality of beads on top of the plurality of beads 330 in the same manner in which the plurality of beads 330 was deposited on the stack tray 315.
The process of creating a desired layer in the building position and depositing the beads making up the desired layer on top of the stack tray 315 or beads previously places on the stack tray 315 can be repeated to create a three dimensional bead design having multiple layers of beads. To facilitate stacking two or more layers of beads on top of one another, the stack tray 315 can be configured to move vertically by way of the stack base 318, which is configured to slide within the toy system 300. The stack base 318 can be repositioned to move the stack tray 315 towards the bottom of the three dimensional building system 300 as additional layers of beads are deposited onto the stack tray 315 in order to allow space for the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, upper tray 360, lower tray 310, and any beads positioned on the pins 312 of the lower tray 360 to transition to the stacking configuration.
The upper tray 360 can include any of the features described herein with respect to the upper tray 260. In certain embodiments, the upper tray 360 is disposed between the lower tray 310 and the layer of the plurality of beads 330. In certain embodiments, the upper tray 360 is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to facilitate removal of beads 330 from the lower tray 310. Of course the three dimensional building system 300 need not include the upper tray 360 and can be used by placing the beads 330 directly on the lower tray 310.
The lower tray 310 can include any of features described herein with respect to the lower tray 210. The lower tray 310 includes the plurality of pins 312 extending from an upper surface of the lower tray 310. The upper tray 360 includes a plurality of apertures 322 (shown in
The plurality of beads 330 can include any of the features described with respect to the plurality of beads 230. Each of the plurality of beads can be sized and shaped to achieve contact with one or more adjacent contacting beads 330 so as to adhere to the one or more adjacent beads 330 once dry after liquid is applied, allowing for the formation of a fused array of beads 330. The fused array of beads 330 adhere between surfaces of adjacent contacting beads 330. The adjacent contacting beads 330 can be positioned laterally to or vertically on top of or below one another. The top surface of each bead in the layer of the plurality of beads 330 can adhere to a bottom surface of a bead in another layer of beads positioned on top of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 once dry after liquid is applied. Further, the bottom surface of each bead in the layer of the plurality of beads 330 can adhere to the top surface of a bead in another layer of beads positioned beneath the layer of the plurality of beads 330 once dry after liquid is applied.
The upper tray 360 can be configured to facilitate removal of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from the lower tray 310. When positioned between the lower tray 310 and the layer of the plurality of beads 330, a top surface of the upper tray 360 is positioned below the bottom surface of each bead in the layer of the plurality of beads 330. When upside down in the stacking configuration, one or both of the lower tray 310 and the upper tray 360 can be moved away from the other of the lower tray 310 and the upper tray 360. Separation of the lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 can cause the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to disengage from the plurality of pins 312 and be deposited on the stack tray 315. In one embodiment, the upper tray can be configured to move away from the lower tray 310 when upside down in the stacking configuration. As the upper tray 360 advances away from the top surface of the lower tray 310 the top surface of the upper tray 360 causes the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to slide towards a distal end of the plurality of pins 312 and eventually disengage from the pins 312. Disengagement of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from the plurality of pins 312 while in the stacking configuration causes the layer of the plurality of beads to be deposited onto the stack tray 315. In another embodiment, the lower tray 310 is configured to move away from the upper tray 360 when upside down in the stacking configuration. As the lower tray 310 advances away from the upper tray 360, the plurality of pins 312 advance through the plurality of apertures 322 while the top surface of the upper tray 360 prevents the beads in the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from moving with the pins 312, which causes the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to disengage from the plurality of pins 312. Disengagement of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from the plurality of pins 312 while in the stacking configuration causes the layer of the plurality of beads to be deposited onto the stack tray 315.
The upper tray 360 and the plurality of beads 330 can be configured so that minimal or no adhesion occurs between the plurality of beads 330 and the upper tray 360, allowing the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to be deposited on the stack tray 315 when disengaged from the plurality of pins 312 in the stacking configuration.
The stack tray 315 is positioned on top of a top surface of the stack plate 312. In some embodiments, the stack tray 315 is removably secured to the stack plate 312. The stack plate 312 is positioned on top the stack base 318. One or more tabs 319A and 319B extend laterally from the stack base 318. The tabs 319A and 319B extend partially out of apertures 321A and 321B, respectively, to allow for manipulation by a user. The tabs 319A and 319B can be manipulated to reposition the stack base 318 to a plurality of discrete positioned defined by a plurality of notches 323 spaced vertically along the sides of the apertures 321A and 321B. Protrusions (not shown) extending out of the stack base 318 can engage the notches 323 to releasably secure the stack base 318, and consequently, the stack plate 312 and stack tray 315 if positioned thereon, at a plurality of vertical positions within the building system 300. The notches 323 can be spaced to correspond to the height of one of the plurality of beads 330, such that movement of the stack plate 312 from a first notch to an adjacent lower notch provides a space for an additional layer of beads to be placed on top of a top layer of a bead arrangement previously positioned on the stack tray 315.
The rear wall 328 can be positioned between the side walls 322A and 322B and proximal to a proximal end of the stack tray 315. The back plate 328 can be removable to allow for access to the stack tray 315 after the stack tray 315 has descended towards the base 301.
A top edge portion of the front plate 333 and a bottom edge portion of the lower tray 310 can be shaped and positioned to form an upper slot 335A between the top edge of the front plate 333 and the bottom edge portion of the lower tray 310. The front plate 333 further includes a lower slot 335B. The upper slot 335A and lower slot 335B can be connected by a path extending through the interior of the building device 300. The upper slot 335A can be configured to receive one or more templates. Each template may include a design thereon. The lower tray 310, upper tray 360, and pins 312 can be transparent or semi-transparent to allow for visibility of the template(s) from above the building system 300. In some embodiments, the template(s) can be removed from below the bottom plate 310 through the upper slot 335A. In some embodiments, the template(s) can be removed by advancing the template(s) along the path between the upper slot 335A and the lower slot 335B and out of the lower slot 335B. In some embodiments, a series of templates can be connected such that a first template can be inserted into the upper slot 335A and positioned below the lower tray 310 and subsequently advanced along the path towards the lower slot 335B such that subsequent connected templates can be positioned below the lower tray 310 without requiring removal and replacement of the first template through the upper slot 335A. The template(s) can provide guides or designs for the user when locating beads 330 on the pins 312 to achieve a desired three dimensional bead design. The template(s) can include colored regions to guide placement of correspondingly colored beads 330. In some embodiments, a plurality of related templates can each include a guide or design corresponding to a single bead layer of a three dimensional bead design. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of related templates can include an indicator, such as a number, to indicate an order in which a plurality of bead layers should be built in the building position and stacked in the stacking configuration in order to form the three dimensional bead design. In some embodiments, the plurality of templates can be connected in the order in which the plurality of bead layers are intended to be built.
The hinge pin 308B is received inside the hinge joint 308A, forming the hinge 308, and each end of the hinge pin 308B engages one of the lever arms 306A and 306B. The upper tray 360 includes a plurality of protrusions 376 that extend downward beyond the bottom surface of the upper tray 360. The lower tray 310 includes a plurality of openings 377, each opening configured to receive one of the protrusions 376. The protrusions 376 are configured to slide within the openings 377. Each of the ejection plates 382A and 382B include one or more sockets 378, each socket configured to receive one of the protrusions 376. The protrusions 376 and sockets 378 can be sized and shaped such that the protrusions 376 are secured or fastened within the sockets 378. The springs 384A and 384B can be configured to engage sections 379A and 379B of the lower tray 310 and recesses 383A and 383B of the ejection plates 382A and 382B.
The disengagement mechanism can include the ejection plates 382A and 382B, springs 384A and 384B, openings 379A and 379B, and protrusions 376. When the building system 300 is in the building position, the upper tray 360 is positioned such that the bottom surface of the upper tray 360 engages the top surface of the lower tray 310. Upon initiation of the disengagement mechanism, a force can be applied to the ejection plates 382A and 382B, causing the ejection plates 382A and 382B to advance towards the bottom surface of the lower tray 310. Advancement of the ejection plates 382A and 382B towards the bottom surface of the lower tray 310 can cause advancement of the protrusions 376 positioned within the sockets 378 within the openings 377 in the same direction as the advancement of the ejection plates 382A and 382B. Advancement of the ejection plates 382A and 382B also compresses the springs 384A and 384B between the ejection plates 382A and 382B and the sections 379A and 379B of the lower tray 310. Advancement of the protrusions 376 within the openings 377 can cause the upper tray 360 to translate distally away from the top surface of the lower tray 310. In some embodiments, advancement of the protrusions 376 within the openings 377 causes the upper tray 360 to translate distally away from the top surface of the lower tray 310 when another section of the building system 300 or other obstruction restricts movement of the lower tray 310 in the direction of the advancement of the protrusions 376. For example, one or more portions of the side walls 322A and 322B can prevent advancement of the lower tray 310 towards the base 301 when in the stacking configuration. After the upper tray 310 separates a particular distance from the lower tray 360, any of the beads 330 positioned on the pins 312 will disengage from the pins 312. After disengagement, the force applied to the ejection plates 382A and 382B can be removed, allowing the compressed springs 384A and 384B to exert a force on the ejection plates 382A and 382B to cause the ejection plates 382A and 382B, and consequently the upper tray 310, to return to their initial position.
In some embodiments, the building system 300 is configured to initiate the disengagement mechanism when the building system 300 is transitioned to the stacking configuration such that the layer of the plurality of beads 330 disengages from the pins 312 when positioned above the stack tray 315 so that the layer of the plurality of beads 330 is received on the stack tray 315 or on top of any beads already positioned thereon. In some embodiments, the handle 305 is shaped such that when transitioned to the stacking configuration, portions of the handle 305 contact the ejection plates 382A and 382B and cause the ejection plates 382A and 382B to translate towards the bottom surface of the lower tray 310. In some embodiments, one or more of the side walls 322A and 322B are positioned such that when transitioned to the stacking configuration, one or more portions of the top surface of the lower tray 310 will contact one or more portions of the side walls 322A and 322B to restrict movement of the lower tray 310 towards the base 301. The building system 300 can be configured to allow for the ejection plates 382A and 382B, the protrusions 376, and upper tray 360 to translate towards the base 301 while in the stacking configuration while the movement of the lower tray 310 is restricted, allowing the upper tray 360 to translate distally away from the top surface of the lower tray 310. Translation of the upper tray 360 distally away from the top surface of the lower tray 310 can cause disengagement of the beads 330 from the pins 312 of the lower tray 310.
Following rotation of the handle 305 to the stacking configuration, a plurality of templates 320 can be inserted into the upper slot 335A. An arrow 410 demonstrates a direction of insertion of the plurality of templates into the upper slot 335A. The plurality of templates 320 includes individual templates 320A, 320B, and 320C. Each of the individual templates 320A, 320B, and 320C can include a visual representation, such as a picture or design, providing instructions to a user for positioning the plurality of beads 330 on the pins 312 of the lower tray 310. Each of the individual templates 320A, 320B, and 320C can include instructions for a positioning of the plurality of beads 330 for formation of a single layer of beads for incorporation into a three dimensional bead structure having multiple layers of beads. The outer surface 370 can consist of a transparent or semi-transparent section or window positioned below the lower tray 310 when the lower tray 310 is in the building position. The transparent or semi-transparent window of the template slider 370 can allow for an individual template positioned within the arcuate path 374 to be visible from above the three dimensional building system 300 when the lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 are in the stacking configuration. In some embodiments, both the lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 are transparent or semi-transparent such that an individual template positioned in the arcuate path 374 below the lower tray 310 when the lower tray 310 is in the building configuration is visible through the transparent or semi-transparent window of the outer surface 370, the lower tray 310, and the upper tray 360.
In some embodiments, the three dimensional building system 300 can be used while the three dimensional bead structure is drying on the stack tray 315, for example by stacking one or more layers of beads on the stack base 318.
Any of the beads described herein can be used with the three dimensional building system 300. In some embodiments, a receptacle for receiving one of the plurality of pins 312 may extend through the bead 330. After completion of a three dimensional bead structure, the receptacle extending through the bead 330 may be used to receive an attachment to the bead design, such as, for example, a bag tag. In some embodiments, one or more support beads can be used with the three dimensional building system 300. A support bead can be a bead that is not intended to be a part of the final bead structure, but can be incorporated into the layers of beads for structural support. For example, if a second layer of beads forming part of a bead structure is intended to be positioned on top of a first layer of beads forming part of the bead structure, but includes one or more beads extending beyond the perimeter of the first layer of beads, one or more support beads can be placed so that after deposit on the stack tray 315, the support beads will be positioned beneath those beads of the second layer of beads extending beyond the perimeter of the first layer of beads intended for use in the bead structure. In some embodiments, the support beads will be formed of a material that resist adhesion to the beads intended to be part of the bead structure. In other embodiments, a tool can be used to separate support beads that have adhered to beads intended to be part of the design. The tool may be the same tool configured to administer liquid to the plurality of beads 330 of the three dimensional bead structure. For example, the tool may include a pick or claw for separating support beads from the beads intended form part of the three dimensional bead structure. In some embodiments, a support bead structure is provided that includes a plurality of connected support beads for use over larger areas of the stack tray 315.
While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features of the development as applied to various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices illustrated may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the development. As will be recognized, the present development may be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features may be used or practiced separately from others. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
The foregoing description details certain embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the systems, devices, and methods may be practiced in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the invention should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the described technology. Such modifications and changes are intended to fall within the scope of the embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that parts included in one embodiment are interchangeable with other embodiments; one or more parts from a depicted embodiment may be included with other depicted embodiments in any combination. For example, any of the various components described herein and/or depicted in the Figures may be combined, interchanged or excluded from other embodiments.
With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art may translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.
It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”
The term “comprising” as used herein is synonymous with “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.
The above description discloses several methods of manufacture and materials of the present development. This development is susceptible to modifications in the methods and materials, as well as alterations in the fabrication methods and equipment. Such modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art from a consideration of this disclosure or practice of the development disclosed herein. Consequently, it is not intended that this development be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but that it cover all modifications and alternatives coming within the true scope and spirit of the development as embodied in the attached claims.
While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features of the improvements as applied to various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the device or process illustrated may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. As will be recognized, the present invention may be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features may be used or practiced separately from others. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57. This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/728,933, filed Jun. 2, 2015, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 14728933 | Jun 2015 | US |
Child | 15373364 | US |