US20130122776A1

US20130122776A1 - Maneuverable figure comprising modeling material

Info

Publication number: US20130122776A1
Application number: US13/647,545
Authority: US
Inventors: Oz Gabai
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2011-10-09
Filing date: 2012-10-09
Publication date: 2013-05-16

Abstract

A maneuverable figure assembly toy including a modeling material at least partially covering a maneuverable skeleton, where the skeleton includes a plurality of connector parts connected by a plurality of maneuverable joints, where each of the joints includes a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a snap fit action, and where at least one of the joint parts includes a receptacle for connecting to at least one of the connector parts.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/545,167, filed on Oct. 9, 2011, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to maneuverable toy figures and, more particularly, but not exclusively to the use of modeling material to create maneuverable toy figures.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Construction games are known. Deformable materials for play and recreational purposes are also known. Deformable material such as Plastilin allows the construction of complex figures, possibly including a plurality of colors. The material is easy as well as pleasurable to use. However, though in itself deformable, this material does not allow the construction of figures with easily movable parts: the material either tears or falls apart, if the user tries to change the position of a part of a figure. At the very most, such a material can allow the position of a part to be changed and then fixed in another position, but no repeated motion of a part is possible.
Modeling materials are known in the art for producing figures of various objects such as humans, animals as well as figures of fiction. Modeling materials may be rigid (after it hardens) such as many resins, or deformable, such as Plastilin. In both forms, the figure created with the modeling materials is not maneuverable.
There are many types of skeletons to enable the creation of a figure in a particular posture. The goal of the skeleton, or armature, is to support the modeling material until it hardens, or if it never hardens, such as Plastilin.
The following documents are believed to represent the prior art: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,897,417; 6,074,270; 6,110,002; 6,893,318 and the following articles:
Physics-Based Modeling for Heterogeneous Objects, by Xiaoping Qian and Debasish Dutta, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich. 48105.
Kinodynamic skinning using volume-preserving deformations, by Alexis Angelidis and Karan Singh Department of Computer Science, University of Toronto, published by the Association for Computing Machinery, San Diego, Calif., Aug. 04-05, 2007.
Anatomy-Based Joint Models for Virtual Humans Skeletons, by Anderson Maciel, Luciana Porcher Nedel, and Carla M. Dal Sasso Freiras, Instituto de Informática —Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves, 9500. CEP 91501-970 Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil
However, modeling materials and skeletons are not design to provide continuous maneuverability. In this document, maneuverability means that at least one part of the figure can be moved with respect to the other part of the figure without breaking, tearing or otherwise damaging the modeling materials. Therefore, maneuverability enables moving a part of the figure and then returning that part to its former position without changing the overall form and appearance of the figure. Furthermore, known skeleton materials are inadequate for soft modeling materials such as plasticinne, which does not adhere to a smooth surface and will therefore fall or tear when the skeleton is maneuvered.
There is thus a widely recognized need for, and it would be highly advantageous to have, a system and a method for creating maneuverable modeling figures devoid of the above limitations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided a maneuverable figure including a modeling material at least partially covering a maneuverable skeleton, the skeleton including a plurality of connector parts connected by a plurality of maneuverable joints, where each of the joints includes a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a snap fit action, and where at least one of the joint parts includes a receptacle for connecting to at least one of the plurality of connector parts.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided an assortment of skeleton parts for enabling a user to construct a skeleton for a modeling material for creating a maneuverable object, the assortment including maneuverable joints, where each of the joints includes a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a snap fit action, where at least one of the joint parts includes a receptacle for connecting to at least one of the plurality of connector parts, and where the skeleton including the joint enables maneuverability of the object including the modeling material.
According to still another aspect of the present invention there is provided a joint, operative as a part of a maneuverable skeleton of a maneuverable figure, where the maneuverable figure includes the skeleton, the skeleton including a plurality of maneuverable joints, and a plurality of connector parts operative to connect to at least one of the maneuverable joints, and a modeling material at least partially covering the skeleton, where the joint includes a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a snap fit action, and where at least one of the joint parts includes a receptacle for connecting to at least one of the plurality of the connector parts.
According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a maneuverable figure where at least one of the joint and the connector part is adaptive to carry the modeling material.
Also, according to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a joint where the receptacle is shaped in the form of a hole adaptive to the diameter of the connector part and operative to hold the connector by friction.
Additionally, according to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a joint where the receptacle is adapted for a snap-fit attachment with the connector part.
Further, according to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a joint according where the receptacle includes at least one of a bulge, a pin and a tooth adaptive to snap lock the connector.
Still further according to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a joint where the joint includes at least one of an axle and a ball joint.
Yet further according to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector part operative as a part of a maneuverable skeleton of a maneuverable figure, where the maneuverable figure includes a skeleton, where the skeleton includes the connector part operative to connect to at least one maneuverable joint, the maneuverable joint including a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a snap fit action, and where at least one of the joint parts includes a receptacle for connecting to the plurality of connector parts, and a modeling material at least partially covering the skeleton, where the connector part includes a dowel for connecting with the receptacle.
Even further according to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector part where the connector part includes a pointed edge.
According to still another aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector part including at least one of bulges, cavities, holes, troughs and ridges for increasing surface area of said connector part.
According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector part adaptive to carry a bead part for increasing surface area of said connector part.
Further according to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector part where the dowel is adaptive for snap-fit attachment to the joint part.
Also, according to still another aspect of the present invention there is provided a maneuverable figure at least partially covered with a modeling material where the modeling material is at least one of the group consisting of deformable material, modeling clay, modeling putty, molding clay, polymer clay, play dough, Plasticine, Plastilin, Playdoh, epoxy modeling putty, Kneadatite, Fimo, Sculpey, light curing putty, sculpting material, modeling resin, casting resin, molding resin, thermosetting resin, polystyrene resin, polyurethane resin, epoxy resin, unsaturated polyester resin, acrylic resin, and silicone resin.
Additionally, according to still another aspect of the present invention there is provided a modeling material for covering at least one of the connector parts and the joint parts of the maneuverable figure.
Further, according to still another aspect of the present invention there is provided a modeling material including a hardened modeling material and/or a flexible modeling material.
Still further according to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector part including at least one material of the group of materials consisting of: wood, plastic, metal, a rod, a stick, a tooth pick, a deformable wire, an armature wire, a deformable metallic wire, and a deformable plastic wire.
Yet further according to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector part where the wire is coated with a plastic material.
Even further according to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector part where the plastic coating includes at least one dent to enable a user to bend the connector part.
According to yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided a connector part where the plastic coating is adapted to attach to the modeling material.
According to still another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method for creating a maneuverable figure the method including the steps of: providing a plurality of connector parts, providing a plurality of maneuverable joints, where each of the joints includes a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a single clip (snap fit) action, and where at least one of the joint parts includes a receptacle (hole) for connecting to at least one of the plurality of connector parts, assembling at least part of the plurality of connector parts and plurality of maneuverable joints to form a maneuverable skeleton (armature), and at least partially covering the maneuverable skeleton with modeling material to form a maneuverable figure.
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. The materials, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. Except to the extent necessary or inherent in the processes themselves, no particular order to steps or stages of methods and processes described in this disclosure, including the figures, is intended or implied. In many cases the order of process steps may vary without changing the purpose or effect of the methods described.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in order to provide what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a simplified illustration of a maneuverable skeleton;

FIG. 2 is a simplified illustration of the maneuverable skeleton partly covered by modeling material;

FIG. 3 is a simplified illustration of a two-way joint;

FIG. 4 is a simplified illustration of the two-way joint taken apart;

FIG. 5 is a simplified isometric illustration of two connector parts connected by the two-way joint;

FIG. 6 is a simplified illustration of a three-way joint;

FIG. 7 is a simplified illustration of the three-way joint taken apart;

FIG. 8 is a simplified illustration of a ball-joint;

FIG. 9 is a simplified illustration of the ball-joint attached to a connector part;

FIG. 10A is a simplified illustration of an two-part two-way joint part assembled;

FIG. 10B is a simplified illustration of a two-part two-way joint part disassembled;

FIG. 10C is a simplified illustration of a cut through the two-part two-way joint part while being snapped-fit;

FIG. 10D is a simplified illustration of a cut through the two-part two-way joint part after being snapped-fit;

FIG. 11A is a simplified illustration of an assembled three way joint;

FIG. 11B is a simplified illustration of a cut through the assembled three-way joint;

FIG. 11C is a simplified illustration of a disassembled three way joint;

FIG. 12A is a simplified illustration of a side view of ball-joint;

FIG. 12B is a simplified illustration of a cut view through the ball-joint;

FIG. 13A is a simplified illustration of a cut view through a three-way ball-joint;

FIG. 13B is another simplified illustration of a cut view through the three-way ball-joint;

FIG. 14A is a simplified illustration of an extender ball-joint;

FIG. 14B is a simplified schematic diagrams cut view through the extender ball-joint;

FIG. 14C is a simplified schematic diagram of a cut through extender ball-joint when assembled in a snap-fit action;

FIG. 15 is a simplified schematic diagram of a cut through tube of ball part including bulges suitable to hold a connector in place;

FIG. 16 is a simplified schematic diagrams of a cut through tube of ball part that is curved to provide increased friction and thus hold an inserted connector in place;

FIG. 17A, FIG. 17B, and FIG. 17C are simplified illustrations of three views of a support bead;

FIG. 18 is a simplified illustration of a pivoting ball-joint;

FIG. 19 is a simplified illustration of a particular construction using the pivoting ball-joint;

FIG. 20 is a simplified illustration of a joint box assembled;

FIG. 21 is a simplified illustration of the joint box disassembled;

FIG. 22 is a simplified illustration of a cut through the joint box;

FIG. 23 is a simplified illustration of a deformable connector;

FIG. 24 is a simplified schematic diagram of a cut through the deformable connector;

FIG. 25 is a simplified illustration of a snap-fit edge of connector;

FIG. 26A and FIG. 26B are simplified schematic diagrams of two cuts through a snap-fit joint part;

FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B are simplified schematic diagrams of two cuts through a compatible snap-fit joint part;

FIG. 28 is a simplified illustration of a bent connector;

FIG. 29 is a simplified illustration of a base part;

FIG. 30 is a simplified schematic diagram of a cut thorough the base part;

FIG. 31 is a simplified illustration of a base part holding a deformable connector;

FIG. 32A and FIG. 32B are simplified illustration of two views of a flat connector;

FIG. 33A and FIG. 33B are simplified illustrations of two views of a bulged flat connector;

FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B are simplified illustrations of two views of a flexible flat connector;

FIG. 35C FIG. 35B, and FIG. 35C are simplified illustrations of joint parts with flat connectors receptacle;

FIG. 36 simplified illustrations of a cut through a joint part 1 and a bent flat connector;

FIG. 37 and FIG. 38 are simplified illustrations of two views of a maneuverable skeleton constructed from maneuverable joints, fixed joints, connectors, extender clamps, and support beads; and

FIG. 39 and FIG. 40 are simplified illustrations of two views of a maneuverable skeleton constructed from joints, connectors and joint boxes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention in embodiments thereof comprises a method and a system for creating maneuverable modeling figures. The present invention, preferably but not exclusively, concerns creative figures made of one or more modeling materials and using a skeleton to enable maneuverability of the figure.
The principles and operation of maneuverable modeling figures according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the following drawings and accompanying description.
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 of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. 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.
In this document, an element of a drawing that is not described within the scope of the drawing and is labeled with a numeral that has been described in a previous drawing has the same use and description as in the previous drawings. Similarly, an element that is identified in the text by a numeral that does not appear in the drawing described by the text, has the same use and description as in the previous drawings where it was described.
The drawings in this document may not be to any scale. Different Figs. may use different scales and different scales can be used even within the same drawing, for example different scales for different views of the same object or different scales for the two adjacent objects.
The purpose of the present invention is to provide means and methods for creating maneuverable modeling figures. In this document the term figure refers to any type of materialized model of a realistic or fictitious object. Typical realistic objects may be humans, animals, plants, inanimate or still life objects, etc. Modeling figures refer to figures made of any type or combination of modeling materials.
Typical modeling materials may be also named: deformable material, modeling clay, modeling putty, molding clay, polymer clay, play dough, Plasticine, Plastilin, Playdoh, epoxy modeling putty, Kneadatite, Fimo, Sculpey, light curing putty, sculpting material, modeling resin, casting resin, molding resin, thermosetting resin, polystyrene resin, polyurethane resin, epoxy resin, unsaturated polyester resin, acrylic resin, and silicone resin, plaster, etc.
Maneuverability means that at least one part of the figure can be moved with respect to the other part of the figure without breaking, tearing or otherwise damaging the modeling materials. Therefore, figure maneuverability enables moving a part of the figure and then returning that part to its former position without changing the overall form and appearance of the figure. Hence, a maneuverable modeling figure may have one or more of its parts moved and returned to place, repeatedly, without damaging the figure or the modeling material. Preferably, the part can be moved and stay in the new position, and then returned to place and stay in position. The terms maneuver, movement, motion, animation, and articulation may be used interchangeably.
An armature or a skeleton is a rigid part over which the modeling material is laid. The skeleton preferably includes joints and connectors. The joints provide the maneuverability of the maneuverable modeling figures while the connectors provide the basis or the framework for laying the modeling material.
The drawings in this document describe a skeleton in the form of a human skeleton, however, it is appreciated that this is just one example of an embodiment of a skeleton and that any other type of skeleton or armature is also contemplated.
The present invention seeks to overcome the limitations that are inherent in the use of deformable materials for recreational purposes, especially the inability to fashion easily movable parts. This is achieved by introducing joint parts and connector parts that are particularly designed for the assemblage of constructions that can be covered with such deformable materials, while allowing the parts of a construction to move freely with the deformable material that covers them.
Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which is a simplified illustration of a maneuverable skeleton 10, and to FIG. 2, which is a simplified illustration of the maneuverable skeleton 10 partly covered by modeling material 11, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
As seen in FIG. 1, the maneuverable skeleton 10 preferably contains joints 12, connectors 13, and optionally formed parts 14 and support parts 15. As seen in FIG. 1, connectors 13 preferably form a connection between two or more joints 12 and/or between a joint and a formed part 14. Joints 12 connect between two or more connectors 13, and/or a formed part 14, and/or a support part 15.
As seen in FIG. 2, modeling material 11 is preferably applied over connectors 13 and support parts 15 or over anther modeling material 11. The different patterns of the modeling material 11 elements in FIG. 2 stand for different types of modeling materials 11, or different colors of the same type of modeling material 11.
Connectors 13, formed parts 14, and/or support parts 15 are preferably rigid. However, connectors 13, formed parts 14, and/or support parts 15 may also be made from an elastic material and/or from a plastic material. Elastic material herein refers, for example, to a component that when bent and relaxed returns to its original shape, like a spring. The connectors 13 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 are preferably in the shape of a stick with a round cut, however, it is appreciated that connectors 13 of other shapes are also contemplated. For example, connectors 13 in the shape of flat sticks.
Plastic material herein refers, for example, to a component such that when bent preserves the bent shape. Modeling materials 11 can preferably be modified to any shape and form and preserve that shape. A component 11 made of hardened modeling material preserves its shape under pressure, while a component 11 made of formable or deformable modeling material can be reshaped again.
A joint 12 preferably enables the maneuvering of at least one connector 13, formed part 14, and/or support part 15 with respect to at least another connectors 13, formed parts 14, and/or support parts 15. Formed parts 14 are preferably intended to be exposed and/or used as-is, such as the hands shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, while support parts 15 are preferably intended to provide support to modeling materials.
Reference is now made to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, which are simplified illustrations of a two-way joint 16, and to FIG. 5, which is a simplified isometric illustration of two connector parts 13 connected by the two-way joint 16, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
The two-way joint 16 is an example of one embodiment of a joint 12 of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 3 shows an assembled two-way joint 16, while FIG. 4 shows the parts of the two-way joint 16, including internal parts not seen in FIG. 3.
Two-way joint 16 is typically made of plastic or a similar material. As seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, two-way joint 16 preferably includes two ring parts 17 and 18, each of which includes one or more holes 19 that are operative as receptacles for connector parts 13, as seen in FIG. 5. The ring parts 17 and 18 form disks that preferably rotate around the same central axis. Holes 19 are preferably cylindrical having a diameter of 2.2 millimeters. It is appreciated that the holes can also be made with other diameters, thereby to be suitable for the insertion of suitable connectors or sticks such as toothpicks.
The two-way joint 16 additionally includes a sliding clamp 20, containing a bayonet pin 21, a bayonet receptacle 22, and two tenons 23. Preferably, the bayonet receptacle 22 is inserted into the ring part 17 by applying pressure, such as press-fit, or snap-fit, or snap-lock action.
As seen in FIG. 5, the two-way joint 16 enables the connector parts 13 to move and/or rotate in two parallel planes. The connector parts 13 are preferably straight, rigid, and round rods with pointed ends or edges 24. The connector parts 13 are inserted into holes 19 in the two-way joint 16, typically by a user. The connector parts 13 are preferably secured to the two-way joint 16 by applying pressure, and/or by using friction between the connector parts 13 and the two-way joint 16.
Connector parts 13 are typically made of wood, plastic, metal or a similar material. A typical connector part 13 is shaped as a pointed long and round rod, such a toothpick. Alternately or in addition, real toothpicks can be used. The connector is preferably pointed or rounded at the edge or may have a snap-fit structure at the edge.
Preferably, the connector parts 13 are made of a rigid material. Alternatively, the connector parts 13 are made of a hardened material that can be formed into a user-determined shape and then hardened, for example by heating. For the purpose of hardening a suitable deformable material is used to cover the connector parts 13. Preferably, the connector parts 13 are provided in a variety of lengths, diameters and/or types such as, for example, flexible connectors that can acquire a user-determined shape.
Reference is now made to FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, which are simplified illustration of a three-way joint 25, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
The three-way joint 25 is an example of one embodiment of a joint 12 of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 6 shows an assembled three-way joint 25, FIG. 7 shows the parts of the three-way joint 25 including internal parts not seen in FIG. 6.
As seen in FIG. 7, the three-way joint 25 preferably contains three ring parts 26, 27 and 28, each of which includes one or more holes 19 that are operative as receptacles for connector parts 13, as seen in FIG. 5. The ring parts 17 and 18 of FIG. 4 preferably form disks that preferably rotate around the same central axis. Holes 19 are preferably cylindrical having a diameter of 2.2 millimeters. It is appreciated that the holes can also be made with other diameters, thereby to be suitable for the insertion of suitable connectors such as ticks or toothpicks.
The three-way joint 25 additionally includes two sliding clamps 20 mounted between the ring parts. Each sliding clamp 20 preferably includes a bayonet pin 21, a bayonet receptacle 22, and optionally two tenons (not shown). Preferably, the bayonet receptacle 22 is inserted into the ring part 27 by applying pressure, such as press-fit, or snap-fit.
Reference is now made to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, which are simplified illustrations of a ball-joint 29, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Ball-joint 29 preferably includes a ring part 30, preferably containing a hole 19 and a ball socket 31; a ball part 32 including a ball head 33 and a connector socket 34; and a mounting ring 35. The ball part 32 is preferably secured in the ball socket 31 by pressing the mounting ring 35 into the outer part of the ball socket 31. FIG. 9 shows the assembled ball-joint 29 with a connector 13 inserted into the connector socket 34.
Ball-joint 29 preferably enables a user to move connector 13 in three dimensions, and more particularly to incline connector 13 in any direction away from the central axis of ring part 30, preferably up to an angle of 45 degrees. It is appreciated that the Ball-joint 29 allows assembling two connectors 13 into a fixed construction, allowing the two connectors 13 to move freely in different planes, including perpendicular planes.
Reference is now made to FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, FIG. 10C, and FIG. 10D, which are simplified illustrations of a two-part two-way joint 36, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10A shows an assembled joint 36, FIG. 10B shows disassembled joint 36, FIG. 10C shows a cut through joint 36 while its parts are snapped-fit together, and FIG. 10D shows a cut through the assembled joint 36.
The two-way joint 36 is similar in function to two-way joint 20 but use only two components snap-fit together. Two-way joint 36 preferably includes two ring parts 37 and 38, each having at least one connector receptacle 39, preferably in the form of a round hole. Preferably, ring part 37 has a snap-fit plug part 40 and ring part 38 has a snap-fit socket part 41.
A snap-fit lock is a mechanical joint structure connecting two components (or more) where at least one component has at least a part having some elasticity (spring action). When one component is pressed towards the other component the elastic part bends way and then returns to its original position thus locking the two (or more) components together. Joint 36 of FIGS. 10BA, 10B, 10C, and 10D use annular snap-lock mechanism. However, it is appreciated that any type of snap-lock attachment, such as using a flexible tooth, a split pin, a cantilever beam, clip lock, a slotted annular clip, a tampered pin, etc., is contemplated herein. The snap-lock action may also refer to single clip locking action.
Reference is now made to FIG. 11A, FIG. 11B, and FIG. 11C, which are simplified illustrations of a three-part three-way joint 42, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11A shows an assembled joint 42, FIG. 11B shows a cut through the assembled joint 42, and FIG. 11C shows disassembled joint 42.
The three-way joint 42 is similar in function to three-way joint 25 but use only three components snap-fit together. Three-way joint 42 preferably includes three ring parts 43, each having at least one connector receptacle 44, preferably in the form of a round hole. The outer ring parts 43, designated by numerals 45 and 46, have a snap-fit plug part 47 and the inner ring part designated by numeral 48 has a snap-fit socket part.
Reference is now made to FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B which are simplified illustrations of a two-part ball-joint 49 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12A is a side view of ball-joint 49 and FIG. 12B is a cut view through ball-joint 49.
As seen in FIGS. 12A and 12B, ball-joint 49 includes a ring part 50 and a ball part 51. Ring part 50 includes at least one connector receptacle 52, preferably in the form of a through round hole, into which a connectors 13 may be inserted, and ball receptacle 53, into which the ball side 54 of the ball part 51 can be inserted. Connector receptacle 52 preferably includes a bulge 55 that is adapted to press against connectors 13 when inserted into receptacle 52 so as to hold connectors 13 in place by providing increased friction.
Ball part 51 additionally includes a connector receptacle 56 preferably in the form of a tube or a bore. Ball-joint 49 is similar to ball-joint 29 except that it has only one ring part and the ball part 51 preferably attaches to the ring part 50 with a simple snap-fit action.
Reference is now made to FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B, which are simplified schematic diagrams of a cut through a three-way ball-joint 57 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Ball-joint 57 is similar to ball-joint 49 however the ring part 58 of ball-joint 57 additionally includes a snap fit receptacle 59 similar to receptacle 41 of joint 36 and adaptive for receiving a plug part such as plug part 40 of joint 36. Thus, ball-joint 57 may be used to join together three connectors 13. FIG. 13B shows plug part 40 attached into ball-joint 57.
Reference is now made to FIG. 14A, FIG. 14B, and FIG. 14C, which are simplified schematic diagrams of an extender ball-joint 60, a cut through extender ball-joint 60, and a cut through extender ball-joint 60 when assembled in a snap-fit action, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Ball-joint 60 preferably includes a ball part such as ball part 51 and an arm part 61. Arm part 61 preferably includes a connector receptacle such as connector receptacle 52 and a tube 62 preferably including a connector receptacle 63 preferably in the form of a round bore.
It is appreciated that the snap-fit actions as described in FIGS. 10C and 14C are typical of the assembly of any of the skeleton parts and sub-parts shown and discussed herein.
Reference is now made to FIG. 15 and to FIG. 16, which are simplified schematic diagrams of ball part 51 having particular tubes 56, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
As seen in FIG. 15, tube 56 of ball part 51 includes one or more bulges 64 suitable to hold a connector in place. As seen in FIG. 16, tube 56 of ball part 51 is curved to provide increased friction and thus hold an inserted connector in place.
Reference is now made to FIG. 17A, FIG. 17B, and FIG. 17C, which are simplified illustrations of three views of a support bead 65, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Support bead 65 is preferably used by a user to increase the contact area of a skeleton part with the modeling material covering the skeleton part. Thus the modeling material is more stable and would not rotate, tear, or fall from the skeleton part.
As seen in FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C, support bead 65 preferably includes a grip part 66 preferably surrounding a hole 67 and a support part 68, which preferably includes contact pins 69. Contact pins 69 preferably further increase the surface area of the support bead 65 thus increasing the contact area with the modeling material. Hole 67 is preferably designed to attach to a connector part 13. The support bead 65 of FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C preferably includes contact pins 70 to increase the surface area of the support bead 65 and the contact area and adhesiveness (tackiness) of the modeling material. However, it is appreciated that other designs are contemplated, such as other configurations, patterns and arrangements of bulges, cavities, holes, troughs and ridges as well as other types of surface roughness that increases adhesiveness of the modeling material.
Reference is now made to FIG. 18, which is a simplified illustration of a pivoting ball-joint 71, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and to FIG. 19, which is a simplified illustration of a particular construction using the pivoting ball-joint 71, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
As seen in FIGS. 18 and 19, pivoting ball-joint 71 includes a ball part such as ball part 51, a snap fit ring receptacle such as receptacle 41 of joint 36, and a rod or axle 72 connecting ball part 51 and ring receptacle 41. FIG. 19 shows pivoting ball-joint 71 before assembly with arm part 61 of FIG. 14A and plug part 40 of FIG. 13B.
Reference is now made to FIG. 20, which is a simplified illustration of a joint box 73, to FIG. 21, which is a simplified illustration of joint box 73 disassembled, and to FIG. 22, which is a simplified schematic diagram a cut through joint box 73, all according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
As seen in FIGS. 20, 21 and 22, joint box 73 preferably includes a box 74 and one or more maneuverable receptacles 75. Box 74 preferably includes two connectable parts 76. Connectable parts 76 are preferably identical or symmetrical.
A connectable part 76 preferably includes:

- One or more intra-clamping pins 77 for attaching the connectable parts 76 together.
- One or more inter-clamping pins 78 for attaching a box 74 with another box 74. Alternatively or additionally, inter-clamping pins 78 provide additional surface area, thus enabling the covering modeling material better adhesion.
- One or more joint sockets 79 for attaching a maneuverable receptacle 75 to box 74.

A maneuverable receptacle 75 preferably includes:

- A ring part 80 enabling the rotation of the maneuverable receptacle 75 in the joint socket 79.
- A connector receptacle 81 for attaching a connector 13.
- A rod or axle 82 connecting the ring part 80 with the connector receptacle 81.

Reference is now made to FIG. 23, which is a simplified illustration of a deformable connector 83, and to FIG. 24, which is a simplified schematic diagram of a cut through deformable connector 83, both according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Deformable connector 83 is an example of a preferred embodiment of a connector 13.
As seen in FIG. 23, deformable connector 83 is preferably a pointed rounded rod. Deformable connector 83 preferably includes a rod part 84, one or two pointed edges 85, and one or more dents 86. As seen in FIG. 24, deformable connector 83 preferably includes an internal deformable rod 87 and external coating 88.
The internal deformable rod 87 is preferably made from a soft metal such as copper wire, or any similar material that enables a user to bend it manually, preferably at a dent 86 so as not to break the external coating 88. The internal deformable rod 87 is preferably thin enough to make the bending easy for the user, and yet thick enough to maintain the bended shape under the weight of a covering modeling material. The external coating 88 adds to the thickness of the deformable connector 83 without decreasing the flexibility and is made of a material, such as plastic material, that appropriately attaches to a molding material. Thus, deformable connector 83 enables a user to create connectors 13 of various shapes that can bear a covering layer of molding material.
It is appreciated that molding material such as Plastilin is soft and thus, under the weight of the molding material, a thin wire would cut through the molding material. It is also appreciated that molding material such as Plastilin is not enough adhesive and thus, under the weight of the molding material, the molding material would separate itself from a thin wire. The coating 88 preferably adds to the external area of the deformable connector 83 and also provides surface quality and texture that is adapted to attach to the molding material.
Reference is now made to FIG. 25, which is a simplified illustration of a snap-fit edge 89 of connector 90 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, to FIG. 26A and FIG. 26B and to FIG. 27A and FIG. 27B, which are simplified schematic diagrams of snap-fit joint parts 91 and 92, also according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
As seen in FIG. 25, connector 90 has a snap-fit edge or tip 89 that is preferably rounded and has a circular dent or slot 93 close to the end. Connector 90 is preferably insertable into a respective receptacle in joint parts 91 and/or 92. Accordingly, snap-fit joint parts 91 and 92 have a connector receptacle 94 such as a hole with a bulge 95 that fits for the dent 93, thus holding connector 90 in place.
Reference is now made to FIG. 28, which is a simplified illustration of a bent or shaped connector 96 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As seen in FIG. 28, connector 96 has an inner part 97 that is bent in right angle, or any other angle that may be required.
Reference is now made to FIG. 29, which is a simplified illustration of a base part 98, to FIG. 30, which is a simplified schematic diagram of a cut thorough base part 98, and to FIG. 31, which is a simplified illustration of a base part 98 holding a deformable connector 83, all according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Base part 98 enables a user to position in a place of choice a skeleton or an armature made of any combination of the joints and connectors described above and/or a maneuverable figure made of any combination of the joints, connectors and modeling material (as well as formed pats and support parts) described above. As seen in FIG. 30, base part 98 preferably includes a magnet part 99, which enables a user to attach base part 98 to a ferrous surface.
Reference is now made to FIG. 32A and FIG. 32B, which are simplified illustration of two views of a flat connector 100, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Reference is now made to FIG. 33A and FIG. 33B, which are simplified illustrations of two views of a bulged flat connector 101, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Bulges 102 increases the surface area of connector 101 and thus increases the adhesivity of the modeling material to connector 101.
Reference is now made to FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B, which are simplified illustrations of two views of a flexible flat connector 103, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Flexible flat connector 103 preferably includes a flexible metal wire or flat sheet 104 to provide the flexibility of the connector 103.
Reference is now made to FIG. 35A, FIG. 35B, and FIG. 35C, which are simplified illustrations of joint parts with flat connectors receptacle 105, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Reference is now made to FIG. 36 simplified illustrations of a cut through a joint part 106 and a bent flat connector 107, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Reference is now made to FIG. 37, FIG. 38, FIG. 39, and FIG. 40, which are simplified illustrations of views of examples of maneuverable skeletons constructed from joints, connectors and joint boxes, the skeletons adaptive for maneuverable model figures, according to preferred embodiments of the present invention.
As seen in FIGS. 37 and 38, skeleton 108 includes maneuverable joints 20, 32 and 60, fixed joints 109, connectors 13, extender clamps 110 and support beads 65.
As seen in FIGS. 39 and 40, skeleton 111 includes maneuverable joints 20 joint boxes 73, and connectors 13.
It is appreciated that any “mix and match” combination of joint parts 12, connector parts 13, formed parts 14, and support parts 15 described above is contemplated herein. Combinations of joints enable the assembly of complex joints for connecting two or more connectors of various types and shapes. Such joints enable connecting two or more connectors 13 in various angles, and also enable moving one or more of the connectors in any angle or direction relative to another connector. Therefore, the above described set of joints enables the creation of a maneuverable skeleton or armature with parts or limbs that can simulate or animate any concievable motion. Hence, a modeling figures created from a modeling material and a skeleton based on the joints and connectors described above may imitate the motion of a very large variety of objects.
It is appreciated that the drawings shown and described above comprises a construction game, and more particularly, a maneuverable construction game. The construction game preferably includes a package of components, including one or more modeling materials and skeleton components or parts. The construction game preferably enables a user to construct a maneuverable figure comprising of a maneuverable skeleton covered with modeling material. The package therefore preferably includes a variety of joints and connectors, typically made of plastic. The joints enable a user to attach connectors in a variety of ways, whereby two or more connectors are assembled into a rigid construction that allows the movement of the connectors with respect to one another. The connectors are typically made of wood and shaped like toothpicks, to facilitate their coverage with deformable material. Alternately or in addition, real toothpicks are being used, and the joints are designed to allow the attachment of toothpicks that can be purchased separately. Alternately or in addition the connectors are made of plastic, metal and/or any other material that allows the construction to be heated for the purpose of hardening a suitable deformable material that is used together with such connectors. Preferably, the connectors are provided in a variety of lengths, diameters and/or types, such as flexible connectors. The deformable material preferably includes materials such as Plastilin, Play-Doh and/or clay, and is preferably provided in a variety of colors.
The user assembles the connectors and joints into any one of a variety of possible constructions, and then covers the construction with deformable material. The outcome is a figure which while having an external appearance of a deformable material object still allows the motion of its parts in a variety of ways. Thanks to the underlying construction of connectors and joints, the said parts can be moved freely without causing the deformable material to tear or disintegrate. The connectors are preferably shaped like a stick or a toothpick with pointed edges that can be stuck into the deformable material, or wrap the deformable material around the connector or support part.
It is therefore appreciated that the present invention enables a user to assemble a maneuverable figure constructed from a modeling material at least partially covering a maneuverable skeleton. The skeleton preferably includes a plurality of connector parts connected by a plurality of maneuverable joints as shown and described above. The joints preferably include a first joint part and/or a second joint part connected with a snap fit action, where at least one of the joint parts includes a receptacle for connecting to one or more connector parts.
It is appreciated that the user is preferably provided with an assortment of skeleton parts as shown and described above. Such skeleton parts enable the user to construct a skeleton for a modeling material for creating a maneuverable object, where the skeleton, including one or more joints, enables maneuverability of the object including the modeling material.
It is appreciated that the joints provide relative rotation between the two joint parts, typically by using an axle mechanism and/or a ball joint mechanism. The receptacles of the joints are typically shaped in the form of a hole according to the diameter of the connector part to hold the connector by friction. Alternatively, the receptacles are adapted for a snap-fit attachment with the connector parts, preferably by including one or more bulge, or pin, or tooth adaptive to snap lock the connector.
It is appreciated that the connector part is typically made of: wood, plastic, and/or metal material in the shape of a rod, a stick, or a tooth pick. The connector part may include a deformable wire, an armature wire, a deformable metallic wire, and/or a deformable plastic wire. Typically, the connector part includes a pointed edge. Alternatively, the connector part includes a dowel (or a rod, or a pin) for connecting with the receptacle. Alternatively or additionally, the dowel is adaptive for snap-fit attachment to the joint part.
It is appreciated that the modeling material is typically consisting of: deformable material, modeling clay, modeling putty, molding clay, polymer clay, play dough, Plasticine, Plastilin, Playdoh, epoxy modeling putty, Kneadatite, Fimo, Sculpey, light curing putty, sculpting material, modeling resin, casting resin, molding resin, thermosetting resin, polystyrene resin, polyurethane resin, epoxy resin, unsaturated polyester resin, acrylic resin, and/or silicone resin or a combination thereof. The modeling material may be a hardened modeling material and/or a flexible modeling material.
Thus, at least part of the joints and/or connectors is adaptive to carry the modeling material, and that the modeling material covers, at least partially, one or more of the connector parts and/or the joint parts. A connector part including a wire may be coated with a plastic material. The plastic coating may include one or more dents to enable a user to bend the connector part. If the connector part includes a plastic coating, the plastic coating is preferably adapted to attach to the modeling material.
It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.
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. All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A maneuverable figure comprising a modeling material at least partially covering a maneuverable skeleton, said skeleton comprising a plurality of connector parts connected by a plurality of maneuverable joints;

wherein each of said joints comprises a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a snap fit action, and

wherein at least one of said joint parts comprises a receptacle for connecting to at least one of said plurality of connector parts.

2. Assortment of skeleton parts for enabling a user to construct a skeleton for a modeling material for creating a maneuverable object, said assortment comprising maneuverable joints;

wherein each of said joints comprises a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a snap fit action;

wherein at least one of said joint parts comprises a receptacle for connecting to at least one of said plurality of connector parts; and

wherein said skeleton comprising said joint enables maneuverability of said object comprising said modeling material.

3. A joint, operative as a part of a maneuverable skeleton of a maneuverable figure,

wherein said maneuverable figure comprises:

said skeleton comprising:

a plurality of maneuverable joints; and

a plurality of connector parts operative to connect to at least one of said maneuverable joints; and

a modeling material at least partially covering said skeleton;

wherein said joint comprises a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a snap fit action; and

wherein at least one of said joint parts comprises a receptacle for connecting to at least one of said plurality of said connector parts.

4. The maneuverable figure according to claim 1, wherein at least one of said joints and said connector parts is adaptive to carry said modeling material.

5. The joint according to claim 3, wherein said receptacle is shaped in the form of a hole adaptive to the diameter of said connector part and operative to hold said connector by friction.

6. The joint according to claim 3, wherein said receptacle is adapted for a snap-fit attachment with said connector part.

7. The joint according to claim 6, wherein said receptacle comprises at least one of a bulge, a pin and a tooth adaptive to snap lock said connector.

8. The joint according to claim 3, wherein said joint comprises at least one of an axle and a ball joint.

9. A connector part, operative as a part of a maneuverable skeleton of a maneuverable figure, wherein said maneuverable figure comprises:

said skeleton comprising:

said connector parts operative to connect to at least one maneuverable joint;

a maneuverable joint comprising a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a single clip (snap fit) action, and wherein at least one of said joint parts comprises a receptacle for connecting to said plurality of connector parts; and

a modeling material at least partially covering said skeleton;

wherein said connector part comprises a dowel for connecting with said receptacle.

10. The connector part according claim 9, wherein said connector part comprises a pointed edge.

11. The connector part according claim 9, wherein said dowel is adaptive for snap-fit attachment to said joint part.

12. The connector part according claim 9, wherein connector part comprises at least one of bulges, cavities, holes, troughs and ridges for increasing surface area of said connector part.

13. The connector part according claim 9, wherein connector part is adaptive to carry a bead part for increasing surface area of said connector part.

14. The maneuverable figure according to claim 1, wherein said modeling material is at least one of the group consisting of: deformable material, modeling clay, modeling putty, molding clay, polymer clay, play dough, Plasticine, Plastilin, Playdoh, epoxy modeling putty, Kneadatite, Fimo, Sculpey, light curing putty, sculpting material, modeling resin, casting resin, molding resin, thermosetting resin, polystyrene resin, polyurethane resin, epoxy resin, unsaturated polyester resin, acrylic resin, and silicone resin.

15. The maneuverable figure according to claim 14, wherein said modeling material covers at least one of said connector parts and said joint parts.

16. The maneuverable figure according to claim 14, wherein said modeling material is at least one of a hardened modeling material and a flexible modeling material.

17. The maneuverable figure according to claim 1, wherein said connector part comprises at least one material of the group of materials consisting of: wood, plastic, metal, a rod, a stick, a tooth pick, a deformable wire, an armature wire, a deformable metallic wire, and a deformable plastic wire.

18. The maneuverable figure according to claim 17, wherein said wire is coated with a plastic material.

19. The maneuverable figure according to claim 18, wherein said plastic coating comprises at least one dent to enable a user to bend said connector part.

20. The maneuverable figure according to claim 18, wherein said plastic coating is adapted to attach to said modeling material.

21. A method for creating a maneuverable figure the method comprising the steps of:

providing a plurality of connector parts;

providing a plurality of maneuverable joints, wherein each of said joints comprises a first joint part and a second joint part connected with a single clip (snap fit) action, and wherein at least one of said joint parts comprises a receptacle (hole) for connecting to at least one of said plurality of connector parts;

assembling at least part of said plurality of connector parts and plurality of maneuverable joints to form a maneuverable skeleton (armature); and

at least partially covering said maneuverable skeleton with modeling material to form a maneuverable figure.