Collapsible structure for demonstrating and interacting with large-scale dolls

Abstract

The invention relates to a structure for demonstrating and interacting wherein the structure includes a collapsed position for long-term storage, a folded or storage position for temporary storage, and a plurality of expanded positions that are suitable for displaying or interacting with large-scale dolls. The structure or dollhouse includes a central support surface or platform. A hinge connects a lower rear wall to the platform. When removed from storage, the lower rear wall folds down and to the rear of the platform. Columns are attached to the bottom of the platform, and the columns support the platform above a floor. At least one wing is selectively attached to one of the columns and can rotate about the connection to the column. The at least one wing rotates from a position that partially encloses the space beneath the platform to a second position that creates a simulated room next to the platform. The at least one wing includes a support surface in-plane with the platform. The space defined by the platform and wing(s) simulates rooms in a house. The support surfaces in conjunction with the platform form the simulated ceiling for each room. Additional walls create additional simulated rooms within the simulated house.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention relates to a structure for demonstrating and playing with dolls and, more particularly, pertains to a collapsible, large-scale dollhouse for use with large-scale dolls. BACKGROUND [0002] Dolls, which are generally considered to be any toy, puppet, marionette, etc. made to resemble a human being, date back to practically the earliest recorded history. Dolls have taken many shapes and have been formed from many materials. Modern assembly and production techniques allow more lifelike and customizable dolls than ever before. [0003] A particularly popular brand of dolls is the American Girl™ brand of dolls and characters. Founded in 1985, American Girl, LLC publishes books and produces dolls and toys that integrate learning and play experiences. American Girl dolls are typically large-scale dolls, such as 18″ tall dolls, that have interchangeable clothes and integrated storylines. In fact, American Girl, LLC has been so successful that ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007] In accordance with the present invention, a structure for demonstrating and interacting with relatively large-scale dolls is provided. The structure includes a collapsed position for long-term storage, a folded or intermediary position for temporary storage, and a plurality of expanded configurations that are suitable for displaying or interacting with large-scale dolls. The long-term position provides a semi-flattened position to facilitate storage and minimize the amount of storage space consumed. The temporary storage or folded position reduces the footprint of the structure. In one preferred embodiment, the dollhouse of the present invention is folded to substantially form a cube. One or more expanded positions are obtained by folding components of the dollhouse out of the temporary storage position.

[0011] In a folded or temporary storage position, the dollhouse presents a reduced footprint. In a preferred embodiment, the folded dollhouse is substantially shaped as a cube. The wing(s) partially enclose the space beneath the platform. To expand the structure, the wing(s) rotate about the hinges until the rear walls are in-plane with the lower rear wall that is connected to the platform. A wing support surface is connected by at least one hinge to the wing rear wall. The support surface rotates from a position behind the wing rear wall to a position in-plane with the platform. Selectively mounted supports are operable to maintain the support surfaces in-plane with the platform.

Problems solved by technology

One consistent problem with these dolls is the inability to enjoy or display them with a corresponding dollhouse, as the resulting structure requires excessive space.

By-and-large, these efforts have been unsuccessful, as the resulting structures have required too much assembly, were not aesthetically pleasing, did not provide multiple rooms to simulate a house, or were undesirable to consumers in some other manner.

Doll owners have not had a suitably large, simulated environment in which to interact with their dolls.

Therefore, there exists a need and a challenge to create a structure for demonstrating and interacting with relatively large-scale dolls.

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