MOBILE

Abstract

Provided is a mobile that includes: (a) a primary attachment point; (b) a set of at least two concentric rings including a main ring having a rotary axis with first and second ends, and at least one additional ring having its own rotary axis and carried by the main ring at the ends of the own rotary axis, each of the rings rotatable about its rotary axis; and (c) a main support element attached to the primary attachment point, configured to engage first and second ends of the rotary axis of the main ring, and being subject to rotational displacement so that the first end is sometimes above and sometimes below the second end.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to mobiles, for example mobiles adapted for installation in a baby care device such as a crib or playpen.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The ability to recognize differences in the shapes and sizes of various objects is not innate or inherent but must be acquired. This is best taught at an early age by play, for the most effective toy for a child is one which instructs as well as entertains the player.

A classic toy serving to teach a child how to distinguish between objects which differ in shape, color and size, provides a player with a set of diverse geometric objects and a playing board having apertures therein. Each aperture in the board has a geometry which corresponds to only one of the pieces in the set. Hence when a player seeks to fit a triangular piece into an aperture, by trial and error he finds the one aperture in the board that will accept the triangular piece. The child in playing with this toy must take size into account. Thus if an aperture on the board is a circular opening with a one inch diameter, it will not accept a circular disc having a one-and-a-half inch diameter.

An infant who occupies a crib or a carriage is incapable of manipulating geometric pieces to play with the above described toy. However, this infant has powers of observation. Hence if geometric objects that differ in shape, size and color are collectively displayed, the infant learns to discern significant features among these objects. This is particularly true if the collection of objects is not in a static state and the objects are animated so that they can each be seen in the round.

Since the invention relates to a mobile, of prior art interest are the art mobiles created by Alexander Calder. These can be seen in major museums of modern art.

In a Calder mobile, colored sheet metal pieces having different geometries dangle from an armature that is supported from a ceiling; the pieces being free to swing. The distribution of the pieces and their relative weights are such that in a static state the armature is balanced and the mobile then appears to be a work of abstract sculpture. But the balance is upset by natural air currents flowing in the space occupied by the mobile. These currents impinge on the sheet metal pieces and cause them to sway, thereby animating the mobile. Calder has also created works in which the geometric pieces are maintained in fixed positions, this being referred to as stabiles.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,638,602; 3,927,482; 3,983,647; 5,112,268; 5,620,274; 5,803,786 and 6,068,535 all disclose mobile configurations which were deemed innovative in their time. This list does not purport to be exhaustive.

U.S. Pat. No. 7,025,654 discloses a toy mobile comprising a spider having a hub drivable by a motor to rotate the spider and having at least two legs radiating from the hub at an angle thereto and geometrical objects carried by the spider. Each leg has an end terminal which in the course of each rotating cycle rises to a level above the hub and then falls to a level below the hub, causing the geometrical objects to be animated at least partially under the influence of gravity.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A broad aspect of the invention relates to ways to impart new types of motion to geometric objects affixed to a mobile. The term geometric objects as used in the specification and accompanying claims denotes any shape and pattern including, but not limited to, planar geometric figures (e.g. circles, ellipses, rectangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons and heptagons), three dimensional geometric solids (e.g. spheres, ellipsoids, cubes, rectangular solids, cones, pyramids, tetraheda, and other polygonal solids) or figurative shapes (e.g. animals, people, anthropomorphized objects and caricatures thereof). Optionally, figurative shapes can be provided as two dimensional or three dimensional objects. In various exemplary embodiments of the invention, geometric objects may be colorful or with black and white patterns or any other desirable pattern. Optionally, a pattern and/or color scheme is selected in consideration of a theory of child development. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a mobile is designed to stimulate children of a particular age. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a motorized mechanism rotates the mobile. The term “motorized mechanism” includes motors which rely upon an external power source as well as those which rely on internally stored potential energy. External power sources include, but are not limited to electric power sources (e.g. batteries or a wall socket). Potential energy can be provided, for example, using a coiled spring mechanism (e.g. wind-up or pull string activated) as is known in the art.

An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a mobile having a hub, in which a force of gravity causes rotational motion of a set of at least two concentric rings of different diameters, each ring in the set mounted to rotate about its own diametric axis which is not co-linear with respect to a diametric rotary axis of at least one other ring in the set. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, each ring of a smaller diameter is mounted to and within an adjacent ring of a larger diameter, whilst the largest, outermost ring may be carried, directly or indirectly by the hub so that its rotary axis is tilted relative to a horizontal plane.

The term “horizontal plane” as used in this description and the accompanying claims indicates a plane which is parallel to the ground.

Optionally, one or more of the rings in the set rotate back and forth through a defined arc (e.g. 30, 60, 90, 120 or 180 degrees) with respect to their own axis by alternating direction of rotation. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a motorized mechanism controls rotation of the hub around an axis which is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane.

An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a mobile in which a force of gravity moves one or more geometric objects along a track provided on a surface which rotates in a plane at an angle with respect to the horizontal plane. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the track is an undulating track. Optionally, the track is provided as a slot in the surface. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a motorized mechanism controls rotation of the surface.

An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a mobile in which a one or more geometric objects are each suspended from a pair of strings at separate attachment points on the object, with a first string in the pair being attached to an external support at a fixed point and a second string in the pair being movably attached to an external support. External support, as used here, indicates external to the geometric object. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, movably attached includes slidingly attached. Optionally, the external supports of the first and second strings are a same support or different supports. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, an angle between the external support and the second string and/or between the second string and the horizontal plane at the point of movable attachment of the second string changes as the external support rotates.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the point of movable attachment of the second string to its external support moves along the support in response to gravity as the support rotates. Optionally, wind and/or a motorized mechanism contribute to rotation of the external support.

An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a mobile including one or more support canopies, rotatable about its rotary axis, with one or more geometric objects suspended therefrom, the suspension of at least one such object being by means of a pair of strings which have separate attachment points with respect to the object and with respect to the canopy. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a center of gravity of all items suspended from a single canopy horizontally displaced with respect to the rotational axis of the canopy. Optionally, the rotational axis is provided at a geometric center of the canopy.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, items suspended from a single canopy include one or more geometric objects each suspended as described above and a counterweight suspended from the canopy by at least one additional string.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, items suspended from a single canopy include one or more geometric objects each suspended as described above and having a center of gravity horizontally displaced with respect to the rotational axis of the canopy.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, differential loading of the canopy causes influence of gravity to contribute to rotation of the canopy as the mobile rotates.

An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a mobile including a rotational control mechanism adapted to limit rotation of at least one of the support canopies to a single direction. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the control mechanism employs a ratchet. Optionally, a resistance force of the ratchet provides a threshold force. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, use of a threshold force causes the canopy to perform a single rapid rotation through a defined arc instead of a more gradual rotation. Optionally, the single rapid rotation causes items dangling from the canopy to sharply move thereby drawing attention of an infant observer thereto.

An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a mobile including at least one geometric object suspended from a pair of strings which have separate attachment points with respect to the object and with respect to an external support subject to rotation, e.g. by a motorized mechanism, in a plane at an angle to the horizontal plane. Optionally, a center of gravity, of the object is not on a line between the attachment points of the strings to the object. The strings attached to the object are a same or a different length.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, each string in the pair is fixedly attached to the external support.

In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the first string in the pair is fixedly attached to the external support and the second string in the pair is movably attached to the support.

As used in this specification and the accompanying claims, the term “string” refers to any attachment means suitable for flexibly suspending an object from an external support. In various exemplary embodiments of the invention, a string can include a thread, an actual string, an elasticized material (e.g. an elastic band or rubber band), a rigid rod with a pivotal attachment point at least one end, and a chain.

As used in this specification and the accompanying claims, the term “support” should be interpreted in its broadest possible sense so that it includes any structural element to which one or more other described or claimed elements and/or objects can be attached.

As used in this specification and the accompanying claims, the term “support canopy” should be interpreted in its broadest possible sense so that it includes any support adapted to provide at least three attachment points in a non-linear array.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, there is provided a mobile, the mobile including:

(a) a primary attachment point;

(b) a main support element attached thereto which is subject to rotational displacement around an axis inclined with respect to a horizontal plane;

and

(c) a set of at least two concentric rings including a main ring having a primary axis with first and second ends which engage said main support element so that during the rotational displacement thereof the first end is sometimes above and sometimes below the second end; and at least one additional ring having its own axis whose ends engage the main ring, each of the rings being rotatable about its corresponding axis.

As used in this specification and the accompanying claims, the term “ring” should be interpreted in its broadest possible sense so that it includes any curve with an axis of rotation. Although circular rings are depicted and described, this circular ring configuration is purely illustrative. Other possible ring configurations include, but are not limited to, elliptical and polygonal (e.g. hexagonal). In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, not all rings in a set of concentric rings are characterized by a same shape.

Optionally, at least one of the primary axis and the own axis is a diametric axis of the corresponding ring.

Optionally, the rotational axis of the at least one additional ring is not co-linear with respect to that of the main ring and the rotational motion of one of the rings contributes to rotational motion of at least one other ring.

Optionally, a weighting of at least one of the rings contributes to its rotation and/or rotation of another ring under the influence of gravity.

Optionally, the mobile includes a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to the rotational displacement of the main support.

Optionally, the mobile includes a geometric object mounted on an axis of an innermost of the rings and adapted for rotation thereabout.

Optionally, at least one of the rings is adapted to rotate back and forth through a defined arc with respect to its rotational axis.

Optionally, the mobile includes at least one geometric object movably attached to the main support element.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, there is provided a mobile, the mobile including:

(a) a primary attachment point;

(b) a main support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to the primary attachment point in a plane angled with respect to a horizontal plane; and

(c) at least one geometric object suspended from the main support element by a first string attached to the main support at a fixed point and a second string movably attached to the main support.

Optionally, the first and second strings are attached to the geometric object at separate attachment points on the object.

Optionally, a center of gravity of the geometric object is not between the separate attachment points on the object.

Optionally, a center of gravity of the geometric object is co-linear with the separate attachment points on the object.

Optionally, the first and second strings are of a same length.

Optionally, the first and second strings are of different lengths.

Optionally, the second string is slidably attached to the main support.

Optionally, the main support includes a continuous piece which surrounds the primary attachment point.

Optionally, the continuous piece includes a closed curve. The curve may have any spatial shape, e.g. it may be undulated.

Optionally, the mobile includes a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to the rotational displacement of the main support.

Optionally, the mobile includes at least one geometric object adapted to move along a track within the main support in response to the rotational displacement.

Optionally, the track is provided as a slot in a surface attached to the main support.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, there is provided a mobile, the mobile including:

(a) a primary attachment point;

(b) a main support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to the primary attachment point around an axis inclined to a horizontal plane; and

(c) at least one geometric object adapted to move along a track within the main support in response to the rotational displacement;

wherein the track does not lie along a rotational orbit about the primary attachment point defined by any point on the track.

Optionally, the track is directly attached to the main support.

Optionally, the track defines an undulating curve.

Optionally, the mobile includes a surface attached to the main support, wherein the track is mounted on or integrally formed with the surface.

Optionally, the track is provided as a slot in the surface.

Optionally, the mobile includes a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to the rotational displacement of the main support.

Optionally, the mobile includes at least one geometric object suspended from the main support by first and second strings attached to the main support at two spaced apart points.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, there is provided a mobile, the mobile including:

(a) a primary attachment point;

(b) a main support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to the primary attachment point in a plane angled with respect to a horizontal plane; and

(c) at least one geometric object suspended from the main support element by a string movably attached to the main support;

(d) a motion limiting element adapted to limit motion of the string along the main support element.

Optionally, the motion limiting element includes at least one object affixed to the main support element.

Optionally, the motion limiting element includes a point of attachment of a surface supported by the main support element.

Optionally, the motion limiting element includes a slot in the main support element.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, there is provided a mobile, the mobile including:

(a) a primary attachment point;

(b) a main support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to the primary attachment point in a plane angled with respect to a horizontal plane; and

(c) at least one support canopy with at least one geometric object suspended therefrom by at least two strings attached to the canopy, the canopy being rotatable with respect to the main support element at a canopy rotation axis.

Optionally, the at least two strings are fixedly attached to the geometric object at separate points of attachment on the object.

Optionally, the object includes a flexible portion.

Optionally, the flexible portion is between the separate points of attachment.

Optionally, the separate points of attachment and the canopy rotation axis are collinear for at least one of the at least one support canopies.

Optionally, the mobile includes a counterweight suspended from the canopy by at least one additional string.

Optionally, a center of gravity of the object is horizontally displaced with respect to the rotation axis for the canopy so that it contribute to rotation of the canopy.

Optionally, the at least two strings are of a same length.

Optionally, the at least two strings are of different lengths.

Optionally, each of the at least one support canopy is rotatably attached to the main support.

Optionally, the mobile includes a rotational control mechanism adapted to control rotation of at least one of the at least one support canopy with respect to the main support.

Optionally, the mobile includes a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to the rotational displacement of the main support.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, there is provided a mobile, the mobile including:

(a) a primary attachment point;

(b) a main support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to the primary attachment point around an axis which is inclined with respect to a horizontal plane; and

(c) a rotational control mechanism adapted to control rotation of at least one support canopy with respect to the main support.

Optionally, the rotational control mechanism includes a ratchet mechanism.

Optionally, the rotational control mechanism is adapted to limit rotation of the canopy to a single direction.

Optionally, the rotational control mechanism is adapted to permit rotation only if a threshold force is exceeded.

Optionally, the mobile includes a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to the rotational displacement of the main support.

Optionally, the mobile includes at least one geometric object suspended from at least one of the at least one support canopy by at least two strings attached to the canopy.

Optionally, the mobile includes a counterweight suspended from the at least one of the at least one support canopy by at least one additional string.

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, there is provided a mobile, the mobile including:

(a) a primary attachment point;

(b) at least one support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to the primary attachment point about an axis inclined to a horizontal plane;

(c) at least one geometric object suspended from a pair of strings attached to the at least one support, each string in the pair having separate attachment points with respect to the support element and with respect to the object; and

(d) a drive mechanism adapted to apply the rotational displacement with a defined periodicity.

Optionally, the drive mechanism includes a motor.

Optionally, each string in the pair is fixedly attached to the at least one support element.

Optionally, a first string in the pair is fixedly attached to the at least one support element and a second string in the pair is movably attached to the at least one support element.

Optionally, each string in the pair has a same length.

Optionally, each string in the pair has a different length.

Optionally, said at least one geometrical object has at least one flexible portion adapted to move (e.g. change its shape or orientation) relative to the remainder of the object, or to let the remainder of the object move relative to said portion, upon the rotational displacement of the support element.

Optionally, the geometrical object is styled as animal or human being and said flexible portion corresponds to a part thereof, whose relative movement with respect to the remainder of the body imitates movements of the animal or human being. For example, said part of the animal or human being may be a head, a hand, a leg, a neck, a tail, etc.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although suitable methods and materials are described below, methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of the present invention. All materials and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting.

As used herein, the terms “comprise”, “include”, “have” or grammatical variants thereof are to be taken as specifying inclusion of the stated features, integers, actions or components without precluding the addition of one or more additional features, integers, actions, components or groups thereof.

The phrase “consisting essentially of” or grammatical variants thereof when used herein are to be taken as specifying the stated features, integers, steps or components but do not preclude the addition of one or more additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof but only if the additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, identical and similar structures, elements or parts thereof that appear in more than one figure are generally labeled with the same or similar references in the figures in which they appear. Dimensions of components and features shown in the figures are chosen primarily for convenience and clarity of presentation and are not necessarily to scale. The attached figures are:

FIGS. 1, 2, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5 and 6 are perspective views of different mobiles according to exemplary embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Various embodiments of the invention relate to mobiles with unique mechanisms for imparting motion to one or more geometric objects attached to one or more supports of the mobile.

Specifically, some embodiments of the invention can be used to increase a degree of attractiveness of one or more geometric objects to a viewer (e.g. an infant). Alternatively or additionally, various embodiments of the invention use a force of gravity to alter a spatial and/or a temporal pattern of motion imparted by a non-gravitational force. Optionally, the non-gravitational force includes a force supplied by a motor and/or a force provided by ambient air currents.

The principles and operation of mobiles according to exemplary embodiments of the invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and accompanying descriptions.

Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details set forth in the following description or exemplified by the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Overview

Referring concurrently to FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 depicted exemplary mobiles 100, 200, 300, 400, 500 and 600 share some common features. Each of the depicted exemplary mobiles is supported by a pole 26 and a base 20. According to various embodiments of the invention, base 20 is configured to be attached to a flat surface such as a vertical support 10 of FIG. 1. Exemplary external vertical supports include, but are not limited to, bars 10 of a crib or playpen. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, a hook (e.g. installed in a ceiling) replaces base 20 and/or pole 26.

Depicted exemplary bases 20 optionally include a mirror 22 and/or one or more user input devices generally depicted as buttons 24. Buttons 24 can optionally be employed to activate and/or control rotation of the mobile and/or presentation of sounds (e.g. music) and/or visual stimuli (e.g. lights).

Although pole 26 is depicted as being attached to the mobile from above, in other exemplary embodiments of the invention, pole 26 is attached to the mobile from below.

Mobiles according to various embodiments of the invention can be operated by a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to the rotational displacement of main support 120. The drive mechanism (not visible) can be provided in housing 28 and/or 38 and/or 48 and/or base 20.

Mobiles according to various embodiments of the invention rotate about a primary attachment point depicted as 110, 210 or 310 in the various figures. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a main support element is rotatable about an axis passing through the primary attachment point and inclined relative to a horizontal plane.

Rotational motion in a plane angled with respect to a horizontal can be achieved, for example, using the teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 7,025,654 to Oren et al. One of ordinary skill in the art will easily be able to adapt the teachings of Oren et al. for implementation in the context of various embodiments described hereinbelow.

EXEMPLARY NESTED RINGS EMBODIMENT

FIG. 1 depicts exemplary mobile 100 including a primary attachment point 110 and a main support element 120 including optional fixed ring 150 attached thereto, rotatable about an axis passing through the primary attachment point and inclined relative to a horizontal plane The support element 120 with its fixed ring is subject to rotational displacement around a mobile rotary axis passing through the primary attachment point 110, which is inclined to a horizontal plane.

Depicted exemplary mobile 100 includes a set of concentric rings 130 and 140 including a main ring 130 and an additional ring 140, each of the rings rotatable about its own axis. In particular, the main ring 130 has axles 132 and 134 attached to the support element 120 and collinear with a diametrical axis of ring 130 so that, upon the rotation of the support element 120, axle 132 is sometimes above and sometimes below axle 134. The words “above” and “below” as used with regard to ends 132 and 134 mean that horizontal planes in which the respective ends reside have the indicated relationship.

The additional ring 140 has axles 142-144 attached to main ring 130 and collinear with a diametrical axis of the ring 140 which is oriented transversely to the diametric axis of the main ring 130.

In the depicted embodiment, a geometric object 160 (depicted as a star) is mounted on an axle 162 attached to the additional the ring 140 The additional ring 140 carries an object 160 which is attached thereto by axle 159-161 at locations spaced from the ends 142 and 144 of the diametrical axis of the ring, and is adapted for rotation thereabout. Each of the rings 130 and 140 is adapted to rotate back and forth through a defined arc with respect to its own axis. In various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the defined arc can be 30, 60, 90, 120, 180 degrees or lesser or intermediate or greater angles.

Optionally, additional objects 152 are suspended from the fixed ring 150. In the depicted embodiment, additional objects 152 are equally spaced from the fixed ring 150, although in other embodiments of the invention, objects 152 of different weights can be spaced at unequal intervals so that their weight is evenly distributed.

As main support 120 with the fixed ring 150 rotate about the mobile rotary axis, gravity causes rotation of rings 130 and/or 140 and/or object 160 about their respective axes, for reasons described below with reference to FIG. 6.

Referring now to FIG. 6, exemplary influences on rotational motion of the various rings is explained. In depicted exemplary mobile 600, main support 120 including optional fixed ring 150 rotate about a mobile rotary axis B-B passing through attachment point 110 and inclined at an angle of about 40 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane. Optionally, alteration of this angle of inclination influences rotation of rings 140 and/or 130 and/or object 660 with respect to their respective axes. Optionally, decreasing the angle of inclination contributes to a reduction in rotation of rings 140 and/or 130 and/or object 660.

Alternatively or additionally, axis A-A of ring 130 and axis C-C of ring 140 are deployed at an angle of less than 90 degrees with respect to one another. Optionally, the angle between these axes is about 15 to 45 degrees, optionally about 20 to 30 degrees, optionally about 25 degrees

Alternatively or additionally, ring 140 can be weighted at a point opposite a rotational axis 662 of star 660 as a means of increasing its tendency to rotate about its axis C-C.

Alternatively or additionally, an object in the center of ring 140 (e.g. star 660 of FIG. 6 or star 160 of FIG. 1) is asymmetrically weighted to encourage rotation of the object about its axis as optional fixed ring 150 of main support 120 rotates.

Additional objects 652 are suspended from optional fixed ring 150 of main support 120 from fixed attachment points 654.

Alternatively or additionally, additional objects 653 are suspended from optional fixed ring 150 of main support 120 from movable attachment points 655. In the depicted exemplary embodiment, movable attachment points 655 are provided as beads seated in grooves 657. Optionally, a length of groove 657 contributes to a degree of movability of the attachment.

EXEMPLARY CANOPIES/PAIR OF STRINGS—EMBODIMENT

Referring now to FIG. 2, an additional exemplary mobile 200 includes a primary attachment point 210 and a main support element (depicted as arms 220, 222 and 224) attached thereto. As in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the main support is subject to rotational displacement with respect to primary attachment point 210 about an axis passing therethrough at an angle with respect to a horizontal plane. Optionally, the angle with respect to the horizontal plane is about 40 degrees. Optionally, main support depicted as arms 220, 222 and 224 can be replaced by a ring like structure similar to 150 of FIG. 1.

In the depicted exemplary embodiment of the invention, three support canopies 230, 232 and 234 are pictured. In other embodiments different numbers of support canopies may be provided. Each of the depicted support canopies 230, 232 and 234 has at least one geometric object (240, 242 and 244 respectively) suspended therefrom by at least two strings (e.g. pairs 250 and 260; 252 and 262; and 254 and 264 respectively) fixedly attached to their respective canopies. In the depicted embodiment, objects 240, 242 and 244 are styled as animal caricatures (monkey, giraffe and elephant respectively). In other exemplary embodiments of the, objects 240, 242 and 244 can be styled in accord with other themes (e.g. ocean creatures, space travel, car race and circus).

The at least two strings (pairs 250 and 260; 252 and 262; and 254 and 264) are fixedly attached to geometric objects (240, 242 and 244 respectively) at separate points of attachment on the object (e.g. 270 and 280; 272 and 282; and 274 and 284 respectively). Optionally, positioning of a center of gravity of the object with respect to the separate points of attachment contributes to additional motion of the object suspended from the strings.

Mobile 200 includes an optional counterweight (e.g. 290, 292 and 294) suspended from each canopy (230, 232 and 234) by at least one additional string (291, 293 and 295). The counterweight may contribute to rotational motion of the canopy as the main support rotates.

Optionally, a center of gravity of one or more of objects 240, 242 and 244 is not co-linear with the separate points of attachment (e.g. 270 and 280; 272 and 282; and 274 and 284 respectively) of the at least two strings on the object (pairs 250 and 260; 252 and 262; and 254 and 264 respectively).

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the at least two strings are of a same length (e.g. 250 and 260).

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the at least two strings are of different lengths (e.g. 254 and 264 and/or 252 and 262).

The support canopies 230, 232 and 234 are rotatably attached to the main support. Exemplary points of rotational attachment are depicted as 231, 233 and 235 and define axes of canopy rotation with respect to the main support element.

The support canopies 230, 232 and 234 each include a rotational control mechanism adapted to control rotation of the support canopy with respect to the main support 220. The mechanism is installed at points of rotational attachment 231, 233 and 235 and permits rotation in one direction only. Optionally, the mechanism imposes a rotation threshold which must be overcome for the corresponding canopy to rotate. The rotational control mechanism may include a ratchet mechanism. This mechanism can contribute to a more pronounced rotational motion of the canopy.

Optionally, as the main support (e.g. 222) rotates around attachment point 210 at an angle to the horizontal, object 242 and/or counterweight 292 apply a varying degree and/or direction of rotational force to rotational attachment point 233 of canopy 232. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, gravity contributes to the variation.

Referring now to FIG. 5, exemplary mobile 500 is similar to mobile 200 of FIG. 2 in many ways. Mobile 500 rotates about attachment point 210 and includes three canopies 230, 232 and 234 which rotate about points 231, 233 and 235 respectively.

In depicted exemplary mobile 500, geometric objects in the shape of animals are suspended from the canopies. A horse including a body 540 connected by a flexible neck 570 to a head 550 is suspended by a pair of strings 580 from attachment points 560 and 562 of canopy 230. A bird including a body 544 connected by a flexible neck 570 to a head 554 is suspended by a pair of strings from attachment points 560 and 562 of canopy 234. A monkey including a body 542 and a head 552 is connected by a flexible arm 570 to one of a pair of strings 580 connecting the monkey to attachment points 560 and 562 of canopy 232. Thus, each of the depicted animals includes a flexible member positioned between the two strings. The animals are unevenly weighted so that a center of gravity of the animal does not reside on a rotational axis of the canopy of the relevant canopy. As a result, gravitational force acting on the center of gravity of the animal contributes to rotation of the canopy from which the animal is suspended as the mobile rotates about 210.

EXEMPLARY MOVABLY ATTACHED STRINGS EMBODIMENT

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary mobile 300 according to some embodiments of the invention. Depicted exemplary mobile 300 includes a primary attachment point 310 and a main support element 320 attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to primary attachment point 310 and inclined with respect to a horizontal plane.

The mobile 300 includes geometric objects 330, 340 and 350 each suspended from main support element 320 by a first string (332, 342 and 352) attached to main support 320 at a fixed point and a second string (334, 344 and 354) movably attached to main support 320.

The second string 334, 344, 354 is subject to gravitational forces and moves back and forth along main support 320 as the main support rotates with respect to main attachment point 310. This is achieved by the second strings 334, 344, 354 being slidingly attached to main support 320, by beads 360. In the depicted embodiment, beads 360 are fashioned to resemble a center of a flower 362. Other configurations of bead 360 will suggest themselves to one of ordinary skill in the art according to a theme of mobile 300.

In the depicted exemplary embodiment, first strings 332, 342 and 352 and second strings 334, 344 and 354 are attached to geometric objects 330, 340 and 350 at separate attachment points on their respective objects so that a center of gravity of the geometric object is not between the separate attachment points on the object. Optionally, a center of gravity of the geometric object is co-linear with the separate attachment points on the object. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, a center of gravity of the geometric object which is co-linear with the separate attachment points on the object but not between the attachment points contributes to a tendency of the object to oscillate along its long axis with respect to main support 320 as main support 320 rotates.

In the depicted exemplary embodiments of the invention, main support 320 includes a continuous piece which surrounds primary attachment point 310. In particular, the main support 320 is provided as a closed undulating curve as depicted. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, the main support may be provided as a plurality of separate pieces.

The mobile 300 further includes geometric objects (370 and 372) adapted to move along a track 374 within main support 320 in response to its rotational displacement, as will be described further in more detail. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, the track does not lie along a rotational orbit about the primary attachment point defined by any point on the track.

FIG. 4 depicts an additional exemplary mobile 400, similar to mobile 300 of FIG. 3 in many ways. In depicted exemplary mobile 400, primary attachment point 310 and main support 320 are substantially as described hereinabove. Geometric objects 430, 440 and 450 (depicted here as animal caricatures) are each suspended from main support element 320 by a single string 460 movably attached to main support 320 by a sliding bead 360 as described above. In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, beads 360 are separated from one another by a motion limiting adapted to limit motion of beads 360 with strings 460 along main support element 320

Optionally, the motion limiting element includes at least one object 482 affixed to main support element 320 and/or points of attachment 480 of surface 380 supported by main support element 320. Alternatively, the motion limiting element may be in the form of projections 710 constituting an integral part of the main support element 320. (FIGS. 3B and 4B). In this case, objects 482 have solely decorative function. There may also be a combination of objects 482 and 710 in a single mobile.

Alternatively or additionally, the motion limiting element includes a slot 657 which limits motion of bead 655 with respect to support element 120 and/or 150 (FIG. 6).

EXEMPLARY MOTION ALONG A TRACK EMBODIMENT

Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, the main support element 320 includes a surface 380 in which geometric objects 370 and/or 372 move along a track 374 in response to the rotational displacement of the surface along an axis inclined relative to a horizontal plane. under the influence of gravity. Although tracks 374 are depicted as somewhat parallel tracks, they can optionally be provided in other arrangements.

In the depicted exemplary embodiment, track 374 is formed in the surface 380 attached to main support 320. In other exemplary embodiments of the invention, track 374 is directly attached to main support 320 (e.g. in the form of a wire.). In the depicted exemplary embodiment, track 374 defines an undulating curve. In the depicted embodiment, track 374 is provided as a slot in surface 380.

Exemplary Materials

Many exemplary embodiments of the invention are designed and/or configured for deployment in infant cribs and/or playpens. Optionally, materials for construction of various portions of the mobile are selected with that use in mind.

For example, structural elements such as pole 26 and/or base 20 and/or supports 120 and/or 220, 222 and 224 and/or 320 and/or surface 380 are optionally constructed from high impact plastic (e.g. polyvinylchloride or polycarbonate) and/or reinforced with metal. Various suspended objects described hereinabove can be constructed of plastic and/or fabric as desired. Optionally, suspended objects are provided as fabric dolls filled with lightweight materials (e.g. cotton batting) and weighted (e.g. with high density plastic weights) to achieve a center of gravity in a desired position relative to the doll and/or a support canopy or other support element above the doll.

Exemplary Themes

In some exemplary embodiments of the invention, objects and/or supports within a specific mobile are designed and/or configured to adhere to an overall theme of a mobile.

Exemplary overall themes include, but are not limited to, “Ocean in motion” (for example as depicted in FIGS. 1 and/or 6) and/or “Sweet Island dreams” (for example as depicted in FIGS. 2 and/or 5) and/or “Nature's soothing serenade” (for example as depicted in FIGS. 3 and/or 4).

Optionally, geometric items are provided as figures which are thematically consistent with music played by a music box provided as part of the mobile.

It is expected that during the life of this patent many motor mechanisms and/or rotational control mechanisms will be developed and the scope of the invention is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

Specifically, a variety of numerical indicators have been utilized. It should be understood that these numerical indicators could vary even further based upon a variety of engineering principles, materials, intended use and designs incorporated into the invention. Additionally, components and/or actions ascribed to exemplary embodiments of the invention and depicted as a single unit may be divided into subunits. Conversely, components and/or actions ascribed to exemplary embodiments of the invention and depicted as sub-units/individual actions may be combined into a single unit/action with the described/depicted function.

Alternatively, or additionally, features used to describe a method can be used to characterize an apparatus and features used to describe an apparatus can be used to characterize a method.

It should be further understood that the individual features described hereinabove can be combined in all possible combinations and sub-combinations to produce additional embodiments of the invention. The examples given above are illustrative in nature and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention which is defined solely by the following claims. Specifically, the invention has been described in the context of mobiles for infants but might also be used for other types of mobiles, for example large scale Calderian mobiles provided as art installations.

Claims

1. A mobile comprising: (a) a primary attachment point;(b) a main support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to said primary attachment point about an axis inclined with respect to a horizontal plane; and(c) at least one geometric object suspended from said main support element, directly or indirectly, by two strings attached to the geometric object at two spaced apart locations thereon.

2. A mobile according to claim 1, wherein a center of gravity of said geometric object is not between said spaced apart locations on said object.

3. A mobile according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a center of gravity of said geometric object is co-linear with said spaced apart locations on said object.

4. A mobile according any of claims 1 to 3, comprising: a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to said rotational displacement of said main support.

5. A mobile, the mobile comprising: (a) a primary attachment point;(b) a set of at least two concentric rings comprising a main ring having a rotary axis with first and second ends, and at least one additional ring having its own rotary axis and carried by the main ring at the ends of said own rotary axis, each of said rings rotatable about its rotary axis; and(c) a main support element attached to the primary attachment point, adapted to engage first and second ends of the rotary axis of the main ring, and being subject to rotational displacement so that said first end is sometimes above and sometimes below said second end.

6. A mobile according to claim 5, wherein at least one of said rings defines a plane and its rotary axis lies in said plane and, optionally passes through a geometrical center of the ring.

7. A mobile according any of claim 5 or 6, wherein the rotary axis of said main ring is coplanar but not co-linear with respect to that of the additional ring.

8. A mobile according any of claim 5 or 6, wherein said rotational displacement of one of the rings contributes to rotational displacement of the other ring.

9. A mobile according any of claims 5 to 8, wherein a weighting of at least one of the rings contributes to its rotation about said rotary axis thereof, during the rotational displacement of the main support element.

10. A mobile according any of claims 5 to 9, comprising: a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to said rotational displacement of said main support.

11. A mobile according any of claims 5 to 10, comprising: a geometric object mounted on an axis of an innermost of said rings, different from the rotary axis of the ring, and adapted for rotation thereabout.

12. A mobile according any of claims 5 to 11, wherein at least one of the rings is adapted to rotate back and forth through a defined arc with respect to its rotary axis.

13. A mobile according any of claims 5 to 12, comprising: at least one geometric object movably attached to main support element.

14. A mobile comprising: (a) a primary attachment point;(b) a main support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to said primary attachment point around an axis inclined to a horizontal plane; and(c) at least one geometric object adapted to move along a track within said main support in response to said rotational displacement;wherein said track is oriented so as to extend along a line different from a rotational orbit about said primary attachment point defined by any point on the track.

15. A mobile according to claim 14, wherein said track is directly attached to or formed in said main support.

16. A mobile according any of claim 14 or 15, wherein said track defines an undulating curve.

17. A mobile according any of claims 14 to 16, comprising a surface attached to said main support, wherein said track is formed on said surface.

18. A mobile according claim 17, wherein said track is provided as a slot in said surface.

19. A mobile according claim 18, wherein said slot defines an undulating curve.

20. A mobile according any of claims 14 to 19, comprising: a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to said rotational displacement of said main support.

21. A mobile according any of claims 14 to 20, comprising: at least one geometric object suspended from said main support by a first string attached to said main support at a fixed point and a second string movably attached to said main support.

22. A mobile according any of claims 14 to 20, comprising at least one geometric object suspended from said main support element by a string movably attached to said main support.

23. A mobile according to claim 21 or 22, further comprising spaced apart motion limiting elements on the main support element adapted to limit the motion of the string movably attached to said main support.

24. A mobile according to claim 22, wherein said motion limiting elements constitute an integral part of the main support element.

25. A mobile comprising: (a) a primary attachment point;(b) a main support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to said primary attachment point around an axis inclined with respect to a horizontal plane; and(c) at least one geometric object suspended from said main support element by a string movably attached to said main support;(d) a motion limiting element adapted to limit motion of said string along said main support element.

26. A mobile according claim 25, wherein said motion limiting element comprises a slot in said main support element.

27. A mobile, the mobile comprising: (a) a primary attachment point;(b) a main support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to said primary attachment point in a plane angled with respect to a horizontal plane; and(c) at least one support canopy with at least one geometric object suspended therefrom by at least two strings, said canopy rotatable with respect to said main support element at a canopy rotation axis.

28. A mobile according to claim 27, wherein said at least two strings are fixedly attached to said geometric object at separate points of attachment on said object.

29. A mobile according any of claim 27 or 28 wherein said object comprises a flexible portion.

30. A mobile according any of claims 27 to 29 wherein flexible portion is between said separate points of attachment.

31. A mobile according to any of claims 28 to 30 wherein said separate points of attachment and said canopy rotation axis are collinear for at least one of said at least one support canopies.

32. A mobile according any of claims 28 to 31 comprising a rotational control mechanism adapted to control rotation of said at least one support canopy with respect to said main support.

33. A mobile according any of claims 27 to 32 comprising: a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to said rotational displacement of said main support.

34. A mobile, comprising: (a) a primary attachment point;(b) a main support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to said primary attachment point around an axis inclined to a horizontal plane; and(c) at least one support canopy carried by said main support element and rotatable with respect thereto; and(d) a rotational control mechanism adapted to control rotation said support canopy with respect to said main support element.

35. A mobile according to claim 34, wherein said rotational control mechanism comprises a ratchet mechanism.

36. A mobile according to any of claim 34 or 35 wherein said rotational control mechanism is adapted to limit rotation to a single direction.

37. A mobile according any of claims 34 to 36 wherein said rotational control mechanism is adapted to permit rotation only if a threshold force is exceeded.

38. A mobile according any of claims 34 to 37 comprising: a drive mechanism adapted to contribute to said rotational displacement of said main support.

39. A mobile according any of claims 34 to 38 comprising: at least one geometric object suspended from said support canopy by at least two strings.

40. A mobile according any of claims 34 to 39 comprising a counterweight suspended from said at least one support canopy by at least one additional string.

41. A mobile, the mobile comprising: (a) a primary attachment point;(b) at least one support element attached thereto and subject to rotational displacement with respect to said primary attachment point around an axis inclined to a horizontal plane;(c) at least one geometric object suspended from a pair of strings attached to said at least one support element, each string in said pair having separate attachment points with respect to said support element and with respect to said object; and(d) a drive mechanism adapted to apply said rotational displacement with a defined periodicity.

42. A mobile according to claim 41, wherein the drive mechanism comprises a motor.

43. A mobile according to ay of claim 41 or 42 wherein each string in said pair is fixedly attached to said at least one support element.