PORTABLE FASHION MODELING RUNWAY

Abstract

A portable runway can include a stage, an underlying surface defining a boundary, the stage disposed within the boundary and in contact with the underlying surface, an entryway coupled to the stage comprising a first support and a second support, a first panel coupled to and extending outwardly from the first support, a second panel coupled to and extending outwardly from the second support, a runway including one or more runway panels, the runway coupled to and extending from the stage such that an opposing portion of the runway leads to a surface lower than the stage, the runway in contact with the underlying surface, and an interface assembly in contact with the underlying surface and configured to engage the portable runway with a user by responding to a user input.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of fashion modeling. More particularly, the present invention relates to systems and methods for a portable runway.

BACKGROUND

This section is intended to provide a background or context to the invention that is recited in the claims. The description herein may include concepts that could be pursued but are not necessarily ones that have been previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated herein, what is described in this section is not prior art to the description and claims in this application and is not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.

Fashion runways are a common tool used by fashion designers to exhibit apparel on models. Fashion runways are traditionally an elevated, relatively narrow platform that models walk up and down exhibiting apparel to spectators. Traditional runways are large, require a large amount of space to store, transport, and use, and often require many people to maneuver and assemble. Traditional runways are also very expensive. As such, traditional runways are neither affordable nor well-suited for modestly equipped retailers or designers to own and operate for fashion shows. One way to overcome the size and expense of traditional runways is to simply not have a runway; however, it is difficult for models to know where they are to walk to exhibit the apparel. Another option is to simply have a length of red carpet. However, that approach requires lighting and is, therefore, incongruous with the growing trend of black light and “glow-in-the-dark” parties and events.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One embodiment provides for a portable runway. The portable runway can include a stage, an underlying surface defining a boundary, the stage disposed within the boundary and in contact with the underlying surface, an entryway coupled to the stage comprising a first support and a second support, a first panel coupled to and extending outwardly from the first support, a second panel coupled to and extending outwardly from the second support, a runway including one or more runway panels, the runway coupled to and extending from the stage such that an opposing portion of the runway leads to a surface lower than the stage, the runway in contact with the underlying surface, and an interface assembly in contact with the underlying surface and configured to engage the portable runway with a user by responding to a user input.

Another embodiment provides for a method for controlling a portable runway experience. The method includes detecting an assembly status of a portable runway, calibrating locations of one or more sensors based on the assembly status and sensor data from the one or more sensors, detecting one or more components for the portable runway, receiving instructions associated with a user selection, and controlling the one or more components based on the one or more components interacting with a user using the instructions and the sensor data.

Still another embodiment that provides for a portable runway system. The portable runway system includes one or more sensors, one or more lights, one or more speakers, and one or more cameras associated with a portable runway. The portable runway system further includes one or more memory devices storing instructions thereon, that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to receive sensor data from one or more sensors, communication with one or more lights associated to at least turn on and off or dim, adjust at least a volume or an output of the one or more speakers, and capture, from the one or more cameras, sensor data.

These and other features of the invention, together with the organization and manner of operation thereof, will become apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like elements have like numerals throughout the several drawings described below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a portable runway system, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a controller method for a portable runway system, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a portable runway system constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention and shown in the assembled position.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of a portable runway system constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention and shown in the assembled position.

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of a portable runway system constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention and shown in the assembled position.

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a portable runway system constructed in accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention and shown in the assembled position.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of a plurality of runway panels constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and made part of this disclosure.

In general, the portable runway is for all age groups to utilize. Every version as described herein includes customizable features that are at least one or more of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) integration, LED lighting strips, interactive lighting, spotlight effects, Bluetooth compatibility, Bluetooth-capable speakers, 360-camera attachments, application software, retail partnerships and marketplaces, interactive panels, storytelling elements, improvisation and storytelling props, parental involvement, self-expression opportunities, voice recognition and emotion recognition, music and sound effects, social media sharing, artificial intelligence (AI) integration, and tablet integration. More specifically, each version as described herein may have at least one or more of the standards features, which include a modular design for easy assembly and disassembly, glow-in-the-dark elements, remote control options (e.g., application control and physical remotes), user support and tutorials, composed of eco-friendly materials, and themed accessories for all age groups. For example, the portable runway configured for toddlers may have a durable and age-appropriate design, safety features (e.g., rounded edges and non-slip surfaces), and interactive and educational elements. In another example, the portable runway configured for youths may be adapted for older children (e.g., more advanced interactive features) and include age-appropriate educational components. Still in another example, the portable runway configured for adults may include features catering to adult users (e.g., focused on sophisticated designs and technology.

FIG. 1 shows a portable runway performance system, shown as system 52. In general, the system 52 is configured to receive sensor data from one or more sensors associated with a runway user (e.g., a model) using a portable fashion modeling runway, shown as portable runway 2. The sensor data is transmitted to a controller, a cloud device, and/or a user device. The portable runway 2 communicates with the user device and cloud device through a network. The cloud device can communicate with the user device or the portable runway 2. The user device can communicate with the cloud device and the portable runway 2 through the network, or the user device can communicate directly to the portable runway 2.

Referring to FIG. 1, the system 52 includes the portable runway 2, according to an exemplary embodiment. The portable runway 2 includes a controller 54 that controls the operations of the portable runway 2. The controller 54 is operatively coupled to one or more lights shown as light 56, one or more speakers shown as speaker 58, one or more cameras shown as camera 60, one or more visual effects systems shown as a smoke machine 62, and one or more wind machines shown as wind machine 64. In some embodiments, the visual effects system may include a fog machine, haze machine, mist machine, special effects generator, atmospheric effects generator, or vapor machine, or similar devices capable of producing visible atmospheric effects. For example, the visual effects system shown as the smoke machine 62 which can produce smoke. As another example, the visual effects system is a mist machine which can produce mist. The controller includes a processing circuit, shown at processor 66, and a memory device, shown as memory 68. The memory 68 may contain one or more instructions that, when executed by the processor 66, cause the controller 54 to perform the processes described herein. While some processes may be described as being performed by the controller 54, it should be understood that those processes may be performed by any other controller of the system 52 or distributed across multiple controllers of the system 52.

The portable runway 2 further includes one or more sensors, shown as sensor 70, operatively coupled to the controller 54. The sensor 70 is configured to provide sensor data associated with a runway user (e.g., motion data, image data, touch data, light data, sound data, temperature data, location data, environmental data, etc.), the runway user's accessory selection (e.g., light 56, speaker 58, camera 60, smoke machine 62, and/or wind machine 64), and the portable runway 2 (e.g., the components of the portable runway 2 assembled). The sensor 70 may detect when a runway user approaches and leaves the portable runway 2, the walking speed and/or movement of the runway user, the amount of light present at the portable runway 2, the length of the portable runway 2, or whether an accessory has been selected by the runway user. The sensor 70 may capture images of a runway user and/or the portable runway 2. In some embodiments, the sensor 70 is located along the length of the portable runway 2. For example, when the portable runway 2 is assembled using one or more panels, each panel may include a sensor 70. In such an example, the sensor 70 may have an off/on switch, which may be a physical switch, a software control (e.g., VR, AR, or other software controls), or a remote control.

The system 52 may further include one or more user interface or user devices (e.g., smartphones, tablets, laptop computers, desktop computers, smart speakers, AI assistants, etc.), shown as user device 72. The user device 72 facilitates communication between a runway user and the system 52. In some embodiments, data from the sensor 70 or inputs from the runway user may be processed on the user device 72 and may occur in real-time or increments. By way of example, a runway user may provide a command, such as a sound request (e.g., a song, a sound effect, etc.) to the system 52, through the user device 72 that corresponds to the pace of the runway user. By way of another example, a runway user may provide a command from the user device, such as a program, to the portable runway 2 that may be activated using sensor data, such that, for example, the portable runway 2 is illuminated with a specified color when a runway user steps on the portable runway 2. In some embodiments, the user device 72 may be a projector configured to project images onto the portable runway 2 using project mapping.

The system 52 further includes a cloud device 74 (e.g., a cloud server, a service manager, a cloud controller, etc.) configured to store and process data. The cloud device 74 may store data and manage the flow of information throughout the system 52. By way of example, the cloud device 74 may track (e.g., retrieve and store) the current movements of a runway user, the sound requests of a runway user, the amount of light preferred by a runway user, the data captured by the camera 60, or other information. By way of another example, the cloud device 74 may have a stored program to control the light 56 at a specified sequence such as, for example, to be set to music or a specified beat or cadence. By way of another example, the cloud device 74 may store data collected from the sensor 70. In such an example, the data may be stored in a data based designed for handling Internet of Things (IoT) data, which may be used to identify trends and other relevant information. By way of another example, the cloud device 74 may provide real-time monitoring, historical data analysis, and/or trigger actions based on data from the sensor 70.

The cloud device 74 may control operation of the light 56, the speaker 58, the camera 60, the smoke machine 62, the wind machine 64 and/or the portable runway 2. By way of example, in response to receiving sensor data that a runway user is approaching or walking away from the portable runway 2, the cloud device 74 may command the portable runway 2 to engage with the runway user. By way of another example, in response to receiving sensor data of a runway user is moving at a certain speed, the cloud device 74 may command the speaker to play sound (e.g., a song) that corresponds to the pace of a runway user. By way of another example, in response to receiving sensor data that a runway user is approaching the platform, the cloud device 74 may command the light 56 and/or the camera 60 to move or adjust to follow a runway user on the portable runway 2.

The components of the system 52 (e.g., the user device 72, the cloud device 74, and/or the portable runway 2) may communicate with one another directly and/or across a network 76 (e.g., a cellular network, the Internet, etc.). In some embodiments, the components of the system 52 communicate wirelessly. By way of example, the system 52 may utilize a cellular network, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, near field communication (NFC), infrared communication, radio, satellite, or other types of wireless communication. For example, the portable runway may utilize an Internet of Things (IoT) structure to connect to other devices. In other embodiments, the system 52 utilizes wired communication. For example, the system 52 may be connected by MIDI connection or a custom interface.

The user device 72 may provide the runway user communication to the portable runway 2 and the cloud device 74 through a mobile application (e.g., computer application, online application, smartphone application, etc.), shown as application 78. The application 78 provides a graphical user interface (GUI) in which the runway user can make selections or inputs. The application 78 is configured to receive and store data from the portable runway 2 and the cloud device 74 to enable an interactive experience (e.g., augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR) integration, educational modules, etc.) for the runway user. The runway user will be able to access the data collected from the sensor 70, the cloud device 74, and/or the user device 72. In some embodiments, the sensor 70 is in a continuous feedback loop in which the runway user's actions are captured by the sensor 70, processed by the application 78, and immediately visible on the portable runway 2. By way of example, the application 78 may provide an interactive experience that adapts the interface of application 78 to the runway user's profile (e.g., age, privacy restrictions, parental controls, etc.) by adjusting the content and functions available in the application 78. For example, runway users that selected an interactive experience for toddlers will have interactive games, a dress-up simulation, animated stories, sing-along features, and educational content. For runway users that selected an interactive experience for youth and/or adults, the application 78 will provide an interactive experience with a customizable avatar associated with the runway user's profile, a customizable virtual runway, a design studio, a wardrobe organizer, weekly challenges, style tips, and articles relating to fashion modeling. Additional features of the application 78 include a customizable runway (e.g., allowing runway users to program components of the runway, such as the light 56, the speaker 58, the camera 60, the smoke machine 62, and/or the wind machine), a try-on feature (e.g., using AR to virtually try on clothes using the camera 60 of the portable runway or the user device 72), online pageants through VR (e.g., runway users can create, participate in, compete in, and/or watch virtual pageants), and an online store (e.g., runway users can purchase outfits based on suggestions from the cloud device 74 and the runway user's manual selections).

In some embodiments, the portable runway 2 may be compatible with a projector for projecting images onto the runway (e.g., using project mapping and special software to align the digital content with the physical space and program the projection to fit the contours of that space). A projector may give more creative power to the user, especially for the adult runway. For example, the speakers that are built into the design of the portable runway 2 would be connected by Bluetooth pairing. In alternative embodiments, there may be a remote control to operate the lights and other components for the runways. Further, in some embodiments, the portable runway 2 will have a hybrid power system that includes batteries, a wall outlet, and solar panels for outdoor use. In such embodiments, the batteries provide portable and wireless power, which may be useful for shorter events and mobility, and it can be recharged. In such embodiments, the wall outlet can be used to recharge batteries, and is suitable for indoor events. Further, in such embodiments, the solar panels are an eco-friendly option that may recharge the batteries and would be best for outdoor sunny events.

FIG. 2 shows a method of controlling a portable runway 2, shown as method 100. In general, the controller 54 is configured to receive sensor data from sensor 70 to control the runway components (e.g., the light 56, the speaker 58, the camera 60, the smoke machine 62, the wind machine 64, and other components of the portable runway 2 as described herein). The controller 54 interacts with the portable runway 2, the user device 72 and the cloud device 74 through a series of steps to provide custom experience for the runway user.

The portable runway 2 is configured to operate within a series of modes defines by the method 100 as described herein. In an assembly mode, the controller 54 performs step 102, step 104, and step 106 to determine a status and location of the portable runway 2 and the components of the portable runway 2. In a selection mode, the controller 54 performs step 108, step 110, and step 112 to send the status and the location to the user device 72 and/or the cloud device 74 in order for the user device 72 and/or the cloud device 74 to send a selection. In a modeling mode, a party mode, or a teaching mode, the controller 54 performs step 114 and step 116 to create a runway experience for the runway user. In a review mode, the controller 54 performs step 118 and step 120 so the runway user can review the runway experience and have the selections saved for future use. In some embodiments, in each of the modes, the sensor 70 would have to respond to various outputs and inputs. For example, in the modeling mode, movement will be tracked, but in the assembly mode, the sensor 70 may be focused on the physical set-up. The controller 54 may adjust its operations based on the mode (e.g., recognizing when in the assembly mode, modeling mode, and so on to respond accordingly).

At step 102, the controller 54 detects an assembly status (e.g., disassembled, in the process of being assembled or disassembled, or fully assembled) using sensor data from sensor 70 of the portable runway 2. The sensor data associated with the portable runway 2 will be used to determine the condition of the portable runway 2. By way of example, if the sensor data indicates that the portable runway 2 is not linked together and/or may be stacked, the controller 54 will detect the assembly status of the portable runway 2 as dissembled. By way of another example, if the sensor data indicates that the portable runway 2 is partially linked together (e.g., some of the portable runway 2 is coupled to its components and some of the portable runway 2 is not coupled to its components), the controller 54 will detect the assembly status of the portable runway 2 as in the process of being assembled or disassembled. Lastly, for example, if the sensor data indicates that the portable runway 2 is completely assembled, the controller 54 will detect the assembly status of the portable runway 2 as fully assembled. If the controller 54 is unable to determine the assembly status of the portable runway 2, the controller 54 will request (e.g., send a notification) from the user device 72 a manual input from the runway user. In some embodiments, the request and the manual input will be facilitated through the application 78 (e.g., in a drop-down menu, checklists, text fields, an interactive diagram, AR, and so on).

At step 104, the controller 54 calibrates the sensor 70 locations. Once the controller 54 determines the portable runway 2 is assembled, the controller 54 determines the location of the sensor 70 from sensor data and calibrates the sensor 70 locations relative to one another. In some embodiments, the portable runway 2 may not be fully assembled in the same way every time, which will cause variety in the sensor 70 location. In some embodiments, the components of the portable runway 2 will be coupled to the sensor 70 such that each component has uniquely identifiable components that can be located by the controller 54. The controller 54 will provide the sensor 70 locations to the user device 72. In alternative embodiments, if the controller 54 is unable to detect the sensor 70 locations or the runway user would like to manual program the layout, the runway user may map out the portable runway 2 through the user device 72 and/or the application 78.

At step 106, the controller 54 detects the runway components for modeling on the portable runway 2. In some embodiments, the runway user may decide not to incorporate every component available for use with the portable runway 2. In such embodiments, the controller 54 will need to detect which of the components have been selected and the location of the chosen components using sensor data. By way of example, the runway user may choose not to use a smoke machine 62 and places the wind machine 64 in a location where the smoke machine 62 has historically been used. The controller 54 will determine that the wind machine 64 is being used in the location and that the smoke machine 62 is not being used at all. For example, the controller 54 may adjust airflow patterns based on the location of the wind machine 64. In some embodiments, if the controller 54 is unable to detect the components in use or the runway user would like to manual program the components in use, the runway user may indicate the components being used through the user device 72 and/or the application 78.

At step 108, the controller 54 sends the sensor data from sensor 70 through the network 76 to the user device 72 and the cloud device 74. By way of example, the runway user will be able to see on the user device 72 the assembly status of the runway and the location and status (e.g., connected, disconnected, needs charged, out-of-range etc.) of the selected components and sensors. Through the interactive experience (e.g., real-time mapping presented in VR) in the application 78, the runway user will be able to engage with a virtual runway, which is designed around the portable runway 2. If the components of the portable runway 2 are adjusted, the runway user may be able to see a continuously updated and current version through the application 78 by way of VR. For example, the application 78 will indicate to the runway user the location of the wind machine 64 in the virtual runway and can suggest alternative locations.

At step 110, the controller 54 receives an input selection (e.g., a manual selection or a pre-programmed selection) from the user device 72 and/or the cloud device 74. The runway user may use the user device 72 and/or the application 78 to specify the manual selection (e.g., turn on lights, play a selected song, the volume of the speaker 58, take a picture, etc.) and/or the pre-programmed selection. For example, the pre-programmed selection may include a pre-existing program stored in the memory of the application 78 or a custom program developed by the runway user (e.g., flashing the lights with a certain color, at a certain speed and/or brightness to match a song, etc.). In some embodiments, the runway user may request a custom or random program or selection from the cloud device 74. In such embodiments, the cloud device 74 may have stored data regarding the runway user's favorite genre, so the cloud device 74 sends songs within the runway user's favorite genre to the user device 72 for the runway user to select. Alternatively, in such embodiments, the runway user may request music synchronized to the runway user's walking pace, and the cloud device 74 sends songs to the user device 72.

At step 112, the controller 54 receives a suggested program selection from the user device 72 and/or the cloud device 74. In some embodiments, the runway user may not have the manual selection or pre-programmed selection and wants to create a new experience using the portable runway 2. The user device 72 and/or the cloud device 74 may send a suggested program to the controller 54 based on popular choices from other runway users, real-life fashion show events, and other data bases. By way of example, the runway user may not know exactly what song they want to listen to, but they have a preferred beats per minute (bpm). In such an example, the runway user may specify the user device 72 and/or the cloud device 74 to choose songs between 100-120 bpm. By way of another example, when a runway user reacts to a suggestion or input from the user device 72 and/or cloud device 74, the user device 72 and/or cloud device 74 will store the runway user's interactions in order to determine future suggestions.

At step 114, the controller 54 receives sensor data from sensor 70 indicating the portable runway 2 is being used and to begin operation. In some embodiments, the runway user may use the user device 72 to communicate the beginning of operation and/or the mode. In alternative embodiments, the runway user may begin using the portable runway 2 and the controller 54 will receive sensor data to indicate that the runway user has begun modeling. The controller 54 will provide communication of the mode and the status of the runway to the application 78, the user device 72, and/or the cloud device 74. By way of example, the controller 54 will use the sensor data determine whether to enable the modeling mode, the party mode, or the teaching mode. For example, in the modeling mode, the sensor data will indicate a steady walking pace (e.g., a walking pace typical of a model walking down a runway) on the portable runway 2. As another example, in the party mode, the sensor data will indicate dancing or gathering (e.g., identifying a higher number of individuals on the runway or erratic movements) on the portable runway 2. Alternatively, in the teaching mode, the sensor data will indicate an age of the runway user (e.g., using AI to estimate the age range of the runway user) to enable or limit certain functions (e.g., music above a certain volume, content filters, explicit language, etc.), and include instructional elements and/or feedback mechanisms. In teaching mode, the system 52 may adjust its sensitivity, safety features, and interactive elements. For example, the portable runway 2 may have softer lighting, less intense effects, and more educational or playful elements in the teaching mode.

At step 116, the controller 54 controls the runway components using sensor data from sensor 70. As the runway user uses the portable runway 2, the controller 54 will determine which runway components to engage using the sensor data and/or the program selection as inputted by the cloud device 74, the user device 72, and/or the application 78. By way of example, the runway user may have selected to have the lights to flash and the beat of the music to correspond to the pace that the runway user walks down the portable runway 2. The controller 54 will use sensor data to align the flashing lights with each of the runway user's step, to select a song that matches the walking cadence of the runway user, and to adjust the components and/or features accordingly to the runway user's inputs and/or preferences.

At step 118, the controller 54 sends the runway data (e.g., sensor data associated with the runway user's performance, selections, and other data associated with the portable runway 2) through the network 76 to the user device 72 and the cloud device 74. By way of example, the runway user will be able to review their portable runway 2 experience in the application 78. For example, the photos, the videos, the song, the light patterns and colors will be available for the runway user to view. In some embodiments, the data transfer may happen in real-time, which means as the event is occurring, the data is being sent simultaneously to the user device 72 and/or the cloud device 74. Alternatively, the data could be uploaded at certain time increments, such as at the end of a performance or at regular intervals during the event. The data may be both quantitative (e.g., numerical data like sensor readings, time stamps, selection frequencies, etc.) and qualitative (e.g., user feedback, video recordings, photos, etc.). In some embodiments, VR may be used either in real-time, allowing the runway user to experience the runway in a virtual environment as it happens, or retroactively, where the runway user can revisit their experience in VR after the event.

At step 120, the controller 54 stores the runway data within the memory 68. By way of example, the cloud device 74, the application 78, and/or the user device 72 may use the stored runway data to learn the runway user's programs, selections, and preferences. The cloud device 74 and/or the user device may suggest alternative programs and selections for the runway user in the future for when the portable runway 2 is used again. For example, the cloud device 74 and/or the user device 72 may use algorithms and machine learning to determine what information is stored, track runway user interactions, selections and feedback to learn what preferences and programs are most relevant for reach runway user, and filter data to optimize storage and performance.

FIG. 3 illustrates a portable runway 2 constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The portable runway 2 includes a platform 4, a descending runway 6 coupled to the platform 4, an entryway 8 coupled to the platform 4, a shelf 10, and an interface assembly 12. In some embodiments, the portable runway 2 is sized for when the runway user is a child or a toddler. For example, the width of the portable runway 2 may be between approximately 3 feet and 4 feet, the length of the portable runway 2 may be between approximately 4 feet and 6 feet, and the height is adjustable so as to minimize risk of falls or instability. The portable runway 2 is sized such that when disassembled, the components of the portable runway 2 may be carried by hand.

The platform 4 (e.g., the stage) defines a top or first side 14, a bottom or second side 16, a front or third side 18, a rear or fourth side 20, a left or fifth side 22, and a right or sixth side 24. The top side 14 of the platform 4 includes the entryway 8 that is coupled to and extends upwardly from the top side 14. The entryway 8 is defined by a first vertical or right support 26, a second vertical or left support 28, and a central portion 30 that is supported by the right support 26 and the left support 28. The right support 26 is positioned proximate to the right side 24 of the platform 4. The left support 28 is positioned proximate to the left side 22 of the platform 4. In some embodiments, the right support 26 and the left support 28 are detachably coupled to the platform 4. In some embodiments, the right support 26 and the left support 28 are coupled to the platform 4 by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, clamps, magnets, or other fastening elements). In some embodiments, the right support 26 and the left support 28 are coupled to the platform 4 by an inter-locking, inter-connecting, or hinged design.

A first or right wall 31 (e.g., a first panel) is coupled to the right support 26 of the entryway 8 and the top side 14 of the platform 4. The right wall 31 extends outwardly from the right support 26 towards the front side 18 of the platform 4. A second or left wall 32 (e.g., a second panel) is coupled to the left support 28 of the entryway 8 and the top side 14 of the platform 4. The left wall 32 extends outwardly from the left support 28 towards the front side 18 of the platform 4. In some embodiments, the right wall 31 and the left wall 32 are detachably coupled to the platform 4 and detachably coupled to the right support 26 and the left support 28, respectively. In some embodiments, the right wall 31 and the left wall 32 are pivotably coupled to the right support 26 and the left support 28. In some embodiments, the right wall 31 and the left wall 32 are coupled to the platform 4 and/or the right support 26 and the left support 28, respectively, by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, clamps, magnets, or other fastening elements). In some embodiments, the right support 26 and the left support 28 are coupled to the platform 4 and/or the right support 26 and the left support 28, respectively, by an inter-locking, inter-connecting, or hinged design.

A curtain 34 is disposed within the entryway 8 and positioned towards the rear side 20 of the platform 4. The curtain 34 extends from the central portion 30 of the entryway 8 to the top side 14 of the platform 4. In some embodiments, the curtain 34 is configured to retract into the central portion 30 of the entryway 8. In some embodiments, the curtain 34 is manually adjusted by moving the curtain 34 towards the right support 26 or the left support 28. In some embodiments, the curtain 34 is detachably coupled from the portable runway 2.

The descending runway 6 (e.g., a runway, opposing portion of the runway) is disposed along the front side 18 of the platform 4 and extends outwardly away from the platform 4. The descending runway 6 includes a plurality of steps 36 that couple the top side 14 of the platform 4 to an underlying surface 38 positioned beneath the platform 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of steps 36 includes an upper or first step 40 and a lower or second step 42 such that the upper step 40 slopes down to the lower step 42, and the lower step 42 slopes down to the underlying surface 38. The plurality of steps 36 lead to a surface lower than the platform 4 (e.g., the descending runway 6). In some embodiments, the descending runway 6 is detachably coupled to the platform 4. In some embodiments, the descending runway 6 is coupled to the platform 4 by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, clamps, magnets, or other fastening elements). In some embodiments, the right support 26 and the descending runway 6 is coupled to the platform 4 by an inter-locking, inter-connecting, or hinged design.

The platform 4 is positioned on the underlying surface 38 such that the bottom side 16 of the platform 4 engages the underlying surface 38. The underlying surface 38 defines a boundary 44 (e.g., a perimeter) such that the portable runway 2 is disposed at least within or on the boundary 44. In some embodiments, the underlying surface 38 is a pad, a blanket, a tarp, or a carpet that can be rolled or folded. The bottom side 16 of the platform 4 defines a cavity 46 that may be used for storage when the portable runway 2 is assembled (as shown in FIG. 3) or when the portable runway 2 is disassembled.

The shelf 10 is positioned on the underlying surface 38 and can be arranged in front of the platform 4, laterally from the platform 4, or behind the platform 4. The shelf 10 simply rests on the underlying surface 38 due to the force of gravity. In alternative embodiments, the shelf 10 may be connected to the underlying surface 38 by magnets, tape, glue, or hook and fastener material (e.g., Velcro®). In some embodiments, the shelf 10 is not positioned on the underlying surface 38 and can be positioned outside of the boundary 44 of the underlying surface 38. The shelf 10 is configured to hold a plurality of accessories 48 (e.g., glow-in-the-dark accessories). The plurality of accessories 48 may include accessories relating to toys, modeling, and performing (e.g., toy crowns, scepters, clothing, costumes, shoes, gloves, robes, jewelry, dolls, and microphones.

The interface assembly 12 (e.g., a light, a camera, a speaker, a sensor) is positioned on the underlying surface 38 and can be arranged in front of the platform 4, laterally from the platform 4, behind the platform 4, or on the platform 4. The interface assembly 12 is supported by a stand 50 (e.g., a support, a tripod), which can be adjusted vertically or rotated to move the height and orientation of the interface assembly 12. The interface assembly 12 can include an input device (e.g., a sensor, a remote, or another device that receives an input) or an output device (e.g., a light, a camera, a speaker, or another device that receives an output). In some embodiments, there may be one or more interface assemblies that can be arranged around or on the portable runway 2. In some embodiments, the interface assembly 12 is not supported by a stand 50 and is directly mounted to the portable runway 2 or placed proximately to the portable runway 2 on the shelf 10 or the underlying surface 38. In such embodiments, the interface assembly 12 may be coupled to one or more of the descending runway 6, entryway 8, the platform 4, or the shelf 10 as shown in dashed lines in FIG. 3.

In some embodiments, the portable runway is lighted using the interface assembly 12 as one or more lights. The one or more lights may be chosen from a group including light emitting diodes (“LEDs”), but could alternatively be incandescent, or fluorescent. The one or more lights may be powered by one or more batteries but could alternatively be powered by plugging the one or more lights into an electrical outlet. An advantage of battery power, however, is that it eliminates the risk of a person tripping on a power cord. A low voltage power source (e.g., a mobile energy source) can also be utilized with thin distribution wires extending through the portable runway 2. Alternatively, the portable runway 2 may be conductive or have conductive portions providing for wireless powering of lights placed on the portable runway 2. The one or more lights may be manually controlled, and the portable runway 2 panels may be illuminated at the same time (e.g., all on or all off). The one or more lights may alternatively be controlled automatically, as described in FIGS. 1-2. The one or more lights may be controlled to turn on, turn off, or dim.

Some of components of the portable runway 2 (e.g., the platform 4, entryway 8, the right wall 31, the left wall 32, and the shelf 10) are made of a lightweight plastic material (e.g., polyethylene, polypropylene, recycled plastics, and other lightweight plastics). However, the portable runway 2 may be made of any number of suitable materials. For example, the portable runway 2 made by made of rubber, silicone, wood, and the like. As is illustrated in FIG. 3, the portable runway 2 will be stepped on, so a durable material is preferable.

The components of the portable runway 2 may be made of, impregnated with, or coated with a luminescent material. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the components of the portable runway 2 may be comprised of, impregnated with, or coated with a material that fluoresces when exposed to ultraviolet radiation, such as that emitted by a black light. In an alternative embodiment, the components of the portable runway 2 may be comprised of, impregnated with, or coated with a phosphorescent material, including, but not limited to, phosphorescent paints, gels, markers, powders, tapes, and thread. Such materials are more commonly referred to as “glow-in-the-dark” materials. In a further alternative embodiment, the components of the portable runway 2 may be comprised of, impregnated with, or coated with neon colors.

Regardless of whether or not the portable runway 2 is lighted, the portable runway 2 may be configured to be comprised of a single color or a combination of colors, such that it can be tailored to a specific event or holiday. For example, the colors may be selected to coordinate with a given holiday (e.g., red, pink, and white for Valentine's Day; multicolor for Mardi Gras; green and white for St. Patrick's Day; red, white, and blue for Independence Day; brown and orange for Thanksgiving; red and green for Christmas; and blue and silver for Hanukkah; etc.) or event (e.g., pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month). Similarly, all or a portion of the portable runway 2 may be a blank white such that they can be personalized by writing and/or on the portable runway 2.

FIG. 4 illustrates the portable runway 2 constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The portable runway 2 comprises one or more runway panels 5 positioned on an underlying surface 3 and positioned proximate to one or more other runway panels 5. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the runway panels 5 are overlapping, and in contact with other runway panels 5. In alternative embodiments, the runway panels 5 may be proximate to one another and not in contact with one another (see e.g., FIG. 5). In further alternative embodiments, the runway panels 5 are in contact with one another (see e.g., FIGS. 6-7). In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, while the runway panels 5 are overlapping, they are not coupled to one another by anything other than the force of gravity. In alternative embodiments, however, the contacting runway panels 5 may optionally be coupled to one another with any number of fasteners, including, but not limited to, screws, bolts, clamps, magnets, tape, glue, hook and fastener material (e.g., Velcro®), as well as by static electricity, friction, or inter-locking, inter-connecting, or hinged design. For example, FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment where the runway panels 5 are connected using hinges.

The runway panels 5 illustrated in FIG. 4 are not connected to the underlying surface 3. The runway panels 5 simply rest on the underlying surface 3 due to the force of gravity. In alternative embodiments, however, the runway panels 5 may be connected to the underlying surface 3 any number of suitable ways, including, but not limited to, using screws, bolts, clamps, magnets, tape, glue, hook and fastener material (e.g., Velcro®), static electricity, or friction. In one embodiment, the runway panels 5 may removably adhere to the underlying surface 3. In one embodiment, the runway panels 5 may removably adhere to each other, such that a panel overlaps an adjacent panel and adheres thereto, such that the portable runway 2 is functionally a single large structure comprising individual runway panels 5.

Each of the runway panels 5 illustrated in FIG. 4 are rectangular-shaped and measure approximately 22-inches by 28-inches. However, the runway panels 5 may be any suitable shape and dimension that is sufficiently compact such that, when disassembled, the portable runway 2 and its runway panels 5 are portable. Preferably, the runway panels each have a shape that allows each panel to engage at least two other panels without any open area between the panels. For example, squares, rectangles, chevrons, crescents, or the like. In one embodiment, each of the runway panels 5 has an identical shape. In an alternative embodiment, the runway panels 5 may have a plurality of shapes, such that each of the plurality of shapes is engageable with at least one other of the plurality of shapes. In a preferred embodiment, the portable runway 2 and its runway panels 5 are sufficiently compact to be carried by hand. Depending on the dimensions of and the number of runway panels 5 used, the portable runway 2 when assembled can range from a few feet in length to several hundred feet in length, though in the preferred embodiment, the length is approximately 16-feet.

The runway panels illustrated in FIG. 4 are comprised of paper. However, the runway panels 5 may be comprised of any number of suitable materials. For example, the runway panels 5 may be comprised of recycled paper, cardboard, plastic (e.g., plastic comprised of recycled beverage bottles), rubber, vinyl, silicone, fiberglass, foam, cloth (e.g., duck cloth, canvas), and the like. As is illustrated in FIG. 4, the runway panels 5 will be stepped on, so a durable material is preferable.

The runway panels 5 may be comprised of, impregnated with, or coated with a luminescent material. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, the runway panels 5 may be comprised of, impregnated with, or coated with a material that fluoresces when exposed to ultraviolet radiation, such as that emitted by a black light. In an alternative embodiment, the runway panels 5 may be comprised of, impregnated with, or coated with a phosphorescent material, including, but not limited to, phosphorescent paints, gels, markers, powders, tapes, and thread. Such materials are more commonly referred to as “glow-in-the-dark” materials. In a further alternative embodiment, the runway panels 5 may be comprised of, impregnated with, or coated with neon colors.

In an alternative embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the runway panels 5 are lighted using one or more sources of light 7. The sources of light 7 illustrated in FIG. 5 are light emitting diodes (“LEDs”), but could alternatively be incandescent, or fluorescent. The sources of light 7 illustrated in FIG. 5 are powered by one or more batteries but could alternatively be powered by plugging the sources of light 7 into an electrical outlet. An advantage of battery power, however, is that it eliminates the risk of a person tripping on a power cord. A low voltage power source can also be utilized with thin distribution wires extending through each panel. Alternatively, each panel may be conductive or have conductive portions providing for wireless powering of lights placed on the runway panel 5. The sources of light 7 in FIG. 5 are manually controlled, and the individual runway panels are all illuminated the same (e.g., all on or all off). The sources of light 7 may alternatively be controlled automatically, such as by using a microprocessor 9. In such an arrangement, the runway panels 5 can all be illuminated the same (e.g., all on or all off) or controlled individually (e.g., each runway panel can be selectively illuminated). Similarly, the automatically controlled runway panels may be programmed to light at a specified sequence such as, for example, to be set to music or a specified beat or cadence. In an alternative embodiment, the sources of light 7 may be activated using touch sensors, such that, for example, the lighted runway panels 5 are illuminated when a person steps on them.

Regardless of whether or not the runway panels 5 are lighted, the portable runway 2 may be configured to be comprised of a single color or a combination of colors, such that it can be tailored to a specific event or holiday. For example, the colors may be selected to coordinate with a given holiday (e.g., red, pink, and white for Valentine's Day; multicolor for Mardi Gras; green and white for St. Patrick's Day; red, white, and blue for Independence Day; brown and orange for Thanksgiving; red and green for Christmas; and blue and silver for Hanukkah; etc.) or event (e.g., pink for Breast Cancer Awareness Month). Similarly, all or a portion of the runway panels 5 may be a blank white such that they can be personalized by writing on them.

The portable runway 2 is not only for modeling apparel. Rather, it can also be used as a decorative item or a fun activity for any type of event, such as glow-in-the-dark, black light, or neon parties, and birthday parties, holiday parties, and other social events.

The foregoing description of embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of the present invention. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the present invention and its practical application to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the present invention in various embodiments, and with various modifications, as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

As utilized herein with respect to numerical ranges, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms generally mean +/−10% of the disclosed values, unless specified otherwise. As utilized herein with respect to structural features (e.g., to describe shape, size, orientation, direction, relative position, etc.), the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms are meant to cover minor variations in structure that may result from, for example, the manufacturing or assembly process and are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

The term “coupled” and variations thereof, as used herein, means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled to each other using a separate intervening member and any additional intermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two members coupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If “coupled” or variations thereof are modified by an additional term (e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of “coupled” provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., “directly coupled” means the joining of two members without any separate intervening member), resulting in a narrower definition than the generic definition of “coupled” provided above. Such coupling may be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

The hardware and data processing components used to implement the various processes, operations, illustrative logics, logical blocks, modules and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose single- or multi-chip processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or, any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor also may be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, particular processes and methods may be performed by circuitry that is specific to a given function. The memory (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device) may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and/or computer code for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in the present disclosure. The memory may be or include volatile memory or non-volatile memory, and may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present disclosure. According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory is communicably connected to the processor via a processing circuit and includes computer code for executing (e.g., by the processing circuit or the processor) the one or more processes described herein.

The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems and program products on any machine-readable media for accomplishing various operations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computer processor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or another purpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products comprising machine-readable media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function or group of functions.

Claims

1. A portable runway comprising: a stage;an underlying surface defining a boundary, the stage disposed within the boundary and in contact with the underlying surface;an entryway coupled to the stage comprising a first support and a second support;a first panel coupled to and extending outwardly from the first support;a second panel coupled to and extending outwardly from the second support;a runway comprising one or more runway panels, the runway coupled to and extending from the stage such that an opposing portion of the runway leads to a surface lower than the stage, the runway in contact with the underlying surface; andan interface assembly in contact with the underlying surface and configured to engage the portable runway with a user by responding to a user input.

2. The portable runway of claim 1, wherein at least one of the stage, the entryway, the first panel, the second panel, or the runway comprise one or more luminescent materials.

3. The portable runway of claim 1, further comprising a shelf, wherein the shelf is configured to store accessories for the portable runway.

4. The portable runway of claim 1, wherein each of the entryway, the first panel, the second panel, or the runway is removably coupled to the stage.

5. The portable runway of claim 1, wherein the first panel and the second panel are pivotably coupled to the entryway.

6. The portable runway of claim 3, wherein each of the stage, the entryway, the first panel, the second panel, the runway, or the shelf are sufficiently compact to be carried by hand.

7. The portable runway of claim 1, wherein each of the entryway, the first panel, the second panel, the stage, or the runway comprises one or more materials that fluoresces when exposed to ultraviolet radiation.

8. The portable runway of claim 1, wherein the interface assembly is a speaker configured to play a sound that corresponds to the user input.

9. The portable runway of claim 1, wherein each of the entryway, the first panel, the second panel, the stage, or the runway comprise one or more phosphorescent materials.

10. The portable runway of claim 1, wherein the stage is illuminated with a plurality of lights.

11. The portable runway of claim 10, wherein the plurality of lights is chosen from a group comprising at least one of light emitting diodes, incandescent lights, or fluorescent lights.

12. The portable runway of claim 10, wherein the plurality of lights is powered by a mobile energy source.

13. The portable runway of claim 10, wherein the plurality of lights is activated using one or more of (i) touch sensors or (ii) motion sensors.

14. A method for controlling a portable runway experience, the method comprising: detecting an assembly status of a portable runway;calibrating locations of one or more sensors based on the assembly status and sensor data from the one or more sensors;detecting one or more components for the portable runway;receiving instructions associated with a user selection; andcontrolling the one or more components based on the one or more components interacting with a user using the instructions and the sensor data.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising storing the sensor data for the user to access.

16. A portable runway system comprising: one or more sensors, one or more lights, one or more speakers, and one or more cameras associated with a portable runway;one or more memory devices storing instructions thereon, that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: receive sensor data from one or more sensors;communication with one or more lights associated to at least turn on and off or dim;adjust at least a volume or an output of the one or more speakers; andcapture, from the one or more cameras, sensor data.

17. The portable runway system of claim 16, wherein the one or more lights are chosen from a group comprising light emitting diodes, incandescent lights, or fluorescent lights.

18. The portable runway system of claim 16, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to store the sensor data of the one or more cameras in the one or more memory devices.

19. The portable runway system of claim 16, wherein the output of the one or more speakers is determined from the sensor data received by the one or more sensors.

20. The portable runway system of claim 16, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to receive an input from a user device to control the portable runway.