Doll body movement accessory for leisure vehicle

Abstract

A leg actuator mechanism, a method of manufacturing a leg actuator mechanism, and a doll implementing a leg actuator mechanism are provided. The leg actuator includes a thigh mechanism including a hip end and an opposing knee end. The leg actuator also includes a shank mechanism including a first end and an opposite second end, where the first end of the shank portion is operably coupled to the knee end of the thigh portion. The leg actuator further includes a follower mechanism. The follower mechanism includes a mount defining a follower path configured to receive a follower joint. The follower mechanism also includes an upper follower link and a lower follower link. The follower mechanism moves at least one of the thigh mechanism or the shank mechanism when activated.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. patent application No. 17 / 813,215, filed on July 18, 2022, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application No. 16 / 947,346, filed on July 29, 2020 (now U.S. Patent No. 11,389,739), which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application No. 16 / 589,909, filed on October 1, 2019 (now U.S. Patent No. 10,765,960), which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 739,681, filed on October 1, 2018, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0002] Exemplary embodiments generally relate to children's toys. Specifically, (human or animal) dolls and recreational vehicles. More specifically, the present invention relates to accessories for latching dolls to the above-mentioned children's recreational vehicles. Background Art

[0003] Children play with dolls using their imaginations. Doll accessories are manufactured to enhance children's interactive play with their dolls. Doll accessories manufactured for recreational vehicles expand the interactive play between children and their dolls, allowing both the child and the doll to ride in the recreational vehicle. Most doll accessories for recreational vehicles only allow the immobile body of the doll to be transported with the child via the recreational vehicle. Through effort, ingenuity, and innovation, solutions have been developed that address many of these problems found, many examples of which are described in detail herein. Summary of the invention

[0004] The following is a simplified summary of the invention to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not an extensive overview, and it is neither intended to identify key or important components nor to describe the scope of these components. Its purpose is to state some concepts of the described features in a simplified form, paving the way for a more detailed description stated later.

[0005] The present disclosure consists of a novel leg actuator mechanism accessory for a children's recreational vehicle, which is capable of moving the body of a doll while being transported by the recreational vehicle mentioned above. In an exemplary embodiment, a leg actuator mechanism is provided. The leg actuator mechanism includes a thigh mechanism, which includes a hip end and an opposite knee end. The leg actuator mechanism also includes a calf mechanism, which includes a first end and an opposite second end. The first end of the calf portion is operably coupled to the knee end of the thigh portion. The leg actuator mechanism also includes a follower mechanism. The follower mechanism of the leg actuator mechanism includes a mounting member, which defines a follower pathway configured to receive a follower joint. The follower mechanism of the leg actuator mechanism also includes an upper follower connector. The upper follower connector is attached to the follower joint at a first upper follower end and to the thigh portion at a second upper follower end, and the upper follower connector is attached to the thigh portion between the hip end and the knee end. The follower mechanism of the leg actuator mechanism further includes a lower follower link. The lower follower link is attached to the follower joint at a first lower follower end and to the calf portion at a second lower follower end, and the lower follower link is attached to the calf portion between the first end of the calf portion and the second end of the calf portion. The follower mechanism is configured to move at least one of the thigh mechanism or the calf mechanism when activated.

[0006] In some embodiments, the follower mechanism is configured to move the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism between a bent position and a straight position, and the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism is greater in the straight position than in the bent position. In some embodiments, the position of the second end of the shank mechanism is based on the position of the follower joint along the first direction within the follower path. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism is based on the position of the follower joint along the second direction within the follower path.

[0007] In some embodiments, the hip end of the thigh mechanism is fixed relative to the leg actuator mechanism. In some embodiments, the follower path is an elliptical path. In some embodiments, the follower path is a non-elliptical path. In some embodiments, the leg actuator mechanism further comprises a drive mechanism configured to move the follower joint along the follower path. In some embodiments, the leg actuator mechanism further comprises a drive mechanism configured to rotate the follower path along the follower joint.

[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, a method of manufacturing a leg actuator mechanism is provided. The method includes defining a follower path along a non-rotating mounting member, the follower path being configured to receive a follower joint driven around the perimeter of the follower path. The method includes providing a thigh mechanism including a hip end and a knee end. The method also includes providing a calf mechanism including a first end and a second end. The first end of the calf portion is operably coupled to the knee end of the thigh portion. The method further includes defining a follower path within the mounting member, the follower path being configured to receive the follower joint. The method further includes attaching an upper follower connector to the follower joint at a first upper follower end and to the thigh portion at a second upper follower end. The upper follower connector is attached to the thigh portion between the hip end and the knee end. The method also includes attaching a lower follower connector to the follower joint at a first lower follower end and to the calf portion at a second lower follower end. The lower follower link is attached to the calf portion between the first end of the calf portion and the second end of the calf portion. The mount, the upper follower link and the lower follower link define a follower mechanism, and the follower mechanism is configured to move at least one of the thigh mechanism or the calf mechanism when activated.

[0009] In another exemplary embodiment, the foregoing method can also be used to manufacture a leg actuator mechanism. The method includes defining a follower path along a rotating mount, the rotating mount being configured to drive a follower joint along the follower path. The method includes providing a thigh mechanism including a hip end and a knee end. The method also includes providing a calf mechanism including a first end and a second end. The method includes attaching an upper follower connector to a bottom end of a follower joint connector and to a thigh portion at a second upper follower end. The upper follower connector is attached to the thigh portion between the hip end and the knee end. The method also includes attaching a lower follower connector to a bottom end of the follower joint connector and to a calf portion at a second lower follower end. The lower follower connector is attached to the calf portion between a first end of the calf portion and a second end of the calf portion. The method also includes a follower joint connector coupled to both the lower follower connector and the upper follower connector at a bottom end. The middle portion of the follower joint connection is formed by a slot that allows rotational movement of the mount to swing the bottom end of the follower joint connection. The bottom end of the follower joint connection is also coupled to a follower joint. The method also includes a follower joint that is tangential to a follower path defined by the rotating mount. The rotating mount, the upper follower connection, the lower follower connection, and the follower joint connection define a follower mechanism, and the follower mechanism is configured to move at least one of the thigh mechanism or the shank mechanism when activated.

[0010] In some embodiments, the follower mechanism is configured to move the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism between a bent position and a straight position, and the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism is greater in the straight position than in the bent position. In some embodiments, the position of the second end of the shank mechanism is based on the position of the follower joint along the follower path in a first direction. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism is based on the position of the follower joint along the follower path in a second direction.

[0011] In some embodiments, the method further comprises affixing a hip end of the thigh mechanism relative to the leg actuator mechanism. In some embodiments, the follower path comprises an elliptical path. In some embodiments, the method further comprises providing a drive mechanism configured to move the follower joint along the follower path.

[0012] In yet another exemplary embodiment, a doll for dynamic movement is provided. The doll includes a doll body configured with at least one moveable leg. The doll also includes a leg actuator as discussed herein. The doll further includes a drive mechanism, the drive mechanism including a drive plug-in. The rotational movement of the drive plug-in is transmitted to at least one leg actuator mechanism via one or more connecting rods.

[0013] In some embodiments, the drive plug-in is configured to receive the driver plug-in, wherein the driver plug-in is configured to start the drive mechanism. In some embodiments, the doll also includes one or more arm mechanisms, and the one or more arm mechanisms are operably coupled to the drive mechanism that is configured to move based on the rotational movement of the drive plug-in. In some embodiments, the doll also includes a carrying mechanism removably attached to the drive mechanism, wherein the carrying mechanism is configured with the driver plug-in to start the drive mechanism via rotational movement. In some embodiments, the carrying mechanism is attached to a carrier, and the start of the driver plug-in is based on the movement of the carrier. In some embodiments, the drive plug-in is inside the doll body.

[0014] The above summary of the invention is provided only for the purpose of summarizing some exemplary embodiments so that some aspects of the present invention are basically understood. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are only examples and should not be interpreted as narrowing the scope or spirit of the present invention in any way. It should be understood that the scope of the present invention covers many potential embodiments other than those embodiments summarized here, some of which will be further described below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Having thus generally described certain exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, reference will hereinafter be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in which:

[0016] Figures 1A to 1Dillustrating a simplified leg actuator mechanism that follows a follower path according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 1E to Figure 1H illustrating a simplified leg actuator mechanism that travels along a follower path according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B Explanation Figures 1A to 1H Components of a human body mimic shown as an exemplary embodiment according to the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B A partially assembled view illustrating a mounting assembly configured to operate in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure ( Figure 3A ) and exploded view ( Figure 3B );

[0020] 4A to 4D Exemplary embodiments of leg actuator mechanisms that follow a follower path according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, such as Figures 1A to 1H Either of the two leg actuator mechanisms shown;

[0021] Figure 5 illustrating internal components of a leg actuator mechanism with a follower joint in a first position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 6 illustrating internal components of a leg actuator mechanism with a follower joint in a second position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 7 illustrating internal components of a leg actuator mechanism with a follower joint in a third position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 8 illustrating internal components of a leg actuator mechanism with a follower joint in a fourth position according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 9A to FIG. 9B a cut-away view illustrating a doll having a drive mechanism and a leg actuator mechanism according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B additional side cross-sectional views illustrating a toy figure having a drive mechanism and a leg actuator mechanism according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C Explanation of an exemplary carrying mechanism for a doll according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure ( FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B) and a driver insert for attaching the doll to the carrier mechanism ( Fig. 11C );

[0028] Fig.12 illustrating a doll, a carrying mechanism, and an illustrative carrier separated from each other according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0029] Fig.13 A toy figure, a carrying mechanism, and an illustrative carrier that are removably attached together are illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all, embodiments of the present invention are shown. In practice, these inventions may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein; on the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure satisfies applicable legal requirements. Throughout, similar reference numerals refer to similar elements. Terms such as "front," "rear," "top," etc., as used herein, are used for illustrative purposes in the examples provided below to describe the relative positions of certain components or portions of components. In addition, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the present disclosure that the terms "substantially" and "approximately" mean that the referred element or associated description is accurate to within applicable engineering tolerances.

[0031] The components illustrated in the figures represent components that may or may not be present in various embodiments of the invention described herein, such that an embodiment may include fewer or more components than those shown in the figures without departing from the scope of the invention. Some components may be omitted from one or more figures or shown in dashed lines in order to make the underlying components visible.

[0032] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any combination and all combinations of one or more of the listed associated items. The singular forms "a" / "an" and "the" as used herein are intended to include plural and singular forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" when used in this specification indicate the presence of stated features, steps, operations, components and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, components, parts and / or groups thereof.

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs. It should be further understood that terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology and the present disclosure, and not interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense, unless explicitly denied in this document.

[0034] The present disclosure is considered as an exemplification of various inventions and is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments set forth in the drawings or the following description.

[0035] Now refer to Figures 1A to 1D According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a simplified version of the leg actuator mechanism is provided. As shown in the figure, various embodiments of the leg actuator mechanism include a thigh mechanism 1, a calf mechanism 5, a mounting member 2, an upper follower connection member 3 and a lower follower connection member 4.

[0036] In various embodiments, the mounting member 2 defines a follower path configured to receive a follower joint C1. As shown, the upper follower connector 3 and the lower follower connector 4 are operably coupled at the follower joint C1. For example, a first upper follower end of the upper follower connector 3 can be operably coupled to a first lower follower end of the lower follower connector 4 at the follower joint C1. In various embodiments, the upper follower connector 3 can be attached to the thigh mechanism 1 at a second upper follower end (e.g., end at joint B1) between a hip end (e.g., end at hip joint A) of the thigh mechanism 1 and a knee end (e.g., end at lower knee joint B2) of the thigh mechanism 1. In various embodiments, the lower follower connector 4 can be attached to the calf mechanism 5 at a second lower follower end (e.g., end at joint C2) between a first end (e.g., lower knee joint B2) and a second end (e.g., heel joint D) of the calf mechanism 5. In some embodiments, the thigh mechanism 1 and the calf mechanism 5 may be operably coupled at the lower knee joint B2.

[0037] In various embodiments, as the follower joint C1 moves around the follower path 2, the upper follower connection 3 and the lower follower connection 4 move, and in accordance with these movements, the thigh mechanism 1 and the calf mechanism 5 also move around the lower knee joint B2 between different degrees of bending and straightening positions.

[0038] Now refer to Figure 1A, the leg actuator mechanism is in a first position so that the follower joint C1 is located at the bottom of the follower path 2. In this embodiment, with the follower joint C1 located at the bottom of the follower path, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism may be greater than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism may be greater than 120 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism may be greater than 150 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism may be slightly less than 180 degrees (e.g., between 150 and 180 degrees).

[0039] In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the lower mechanism 5 may be substantially the same as the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the upper follower connection 3 (e.g., the angle defined between the joint A, the joint B1, and the joint C1). In addition, in some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the upper follower connection 3 (e.g., the angle defined between the joint A, the joint B1, and the joint C1) may be substantially the same as the angle defined between the lower follower connection 4 and the shank mechanism (e.g., the angle defined between the joint C1, the joint C2, and the joint D).

[0040] Now refer to Figure 1B , as the follower joint C1 travels clockwise along the follower path 2, the leg actuator mechanism moves to the second position. As the leg actuator mechanism moves from the first position to the second position, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism may only decrease slightly (e.g., less than 30 degrees). In some embodiments, the combination of the thigh mechanism 1 and the shank mechanism 5 may rotate about the hip joint A (e.g., the hip joint A may be stationary).

[0041] Now refer to Figure 1C As the follower joint C1 continues to move along the follower path 2, the leg actuator mechanism moves to the third position (for example, in the third position, the follower joint C1 may be located at the follower joint position in the first position (for example, Figure 1A As the follower joint C1 moves from the second position ( Figure 1B ) moves to the third position ( Figure 1C ), the lower follower connector 4 moves the calf mechanism 5 so that the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the calf mechanism 5 can be reduced from the angle defined in the first position and / or the second position. For example, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the calf mechanism can be less than 120 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the calf mechanism can be less than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the calf mechanism can be less than 60 degrees.

[0042] Now refer to Figure 1D, as the follower joint C1 continues to move along the follower path 2, the leg actuator mechanism moves to the fourth position. In various embodiments, as the follower joint C1 travels along the follower path 2, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism can increase from the third position. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism can be the same at the fourth position as it was at the second position (e.g., the heel joint D rotates about the hip joint A). In various embodiments, as the follower joint C1 is driven about the follower path 2 (e.g., such as discussed below), the leg actuator mechanism can rotate through Figures 1A to 1D Each position shown (see also as another example Figure 1E to Figure 1H ).

[0043] In various embodiments, the follower path may define an elliptical path. In some embodiments, the placement of the heel joint D may be based on the follower joint C1 being positioned in the follower path 2 along a first direction (e.g., along Figure 1A In various embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the shank mechanism 5 can be based on the position of the follower joint C1 in the follower path 2 along the second direction (e.g., along Figure 1A In various embodiments, the first direction and the second direction may be spaced approximately 90 degrees apart from each other (eg, the first direction and the second direction may form approximately a right angle). Figure 1A The first and second directions discussed are generally horizontal and vertical, respectively, but the axis may be rotated so that the first direction is not along the horizontal axis and / or the second direction is not along the vertical axis. In various embodiments, the first and second directions may be defined based on the position of A relative to the follower path. For example, joint A may be in the first direction relative to the follower path (e.g., joint A may be a fixed pivot point of the leg actuator mechanism).

[0044] In further exemplary embodiments, the follower path may be defined by a rotating mount. Figure 1E to Figure 1H According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a simplified version of a leg actuator mechanism with a rotating mount is provided. Figure 1E to Figure 1H , various embodiments of the exemplary leg actuator mechanism illustrated include a thigh mechanism 1 , a shank mechanism 5 , an upper follower connection 3 , a lower follower connection 4 , a follower joint C1 , a follower joint connection Z3 , and a swivel mount 12 .

[0045] In various embodiments, the rotating mount 12 defines a rotating follower path that is configured to drive the follower joint C1 to travel according to the follower path defined by the rotating mount 12 (e.g., along the follower path). In various embodiments, the path is defined along the periphery of the rotating mount 12. For example, the rotating mount 12 may include a disk, wherein the path is defined along the periphery of the disk. As shown, the first end of the follower joint connector Z3 may be operably coupled to both the upper follower connector 3 and the lower follower connector 4 at the follower joint C1. In various embodiments, the follower joint C1 may include an attachment member (e.g., a pin and / or the like) that is configured to couple the follower joint connector Z3 and the upper follower connector Z3 at the follower joint C1.

[0046] A protruding member Z4 (e.g., a pin, a rod, and / or the like) coupled to the rotating mount 12 may extend through at least a portion of an opening defined by the follower joint connector Z3 and may be configured to drive the follower joint connector Z3 in a swinging manner as the mount 12 rotates. For example, the opening defined by the follower joint connector Z3 may allow the rotational movement of the mount 12 to swing the bottom end of the follower joint connector Z3. The rotating mount 12 may be configured to rotate around the axis of the rotating mount member Z2. The rotating mount member Z2 may include an axis, a shaft, or the like. In various embodiments, the follower joint connector Z3 may include and / or may form a clockwise and / or counterclockwise actuator that swings horizontally.

[0047] As further shown, the second end of the follower joint connector Z3 can be operably coupled to the vertical moving member Z1. The follower joint connector Z3 can be operably coupled to the mounting plate assembly 6 configured as a part of the leg actuator mechanism. The vertical member Z3 can be operably coupled to the mounting plate assembly 6 via an attachment mechanism Z5 (e.g., a pin and / or the like). The vertical moving member Z1 may include or may form a vertical up and down actuator. In various embodiments, the vertical moving member Z1 may be configured to move up and down as the mounting member 12 rotates. As shown in the figure, in some embodiments, the vertical moving member Z1 may have a limited range of motion (e.g., Z1 minimum to Z1 maximum). Within the limited range of motion, the position of the vertical moving member Z1 may depend on the position of the rotating mounting member 12. As described above, the upper follower connector 3 can be coupled to the follower joint connector Z3 at the follower joint C1, and the follower joint Z3 can be coupled to the vertical moving member Z1. In various embodiments, as the mount 12 rotates, the follower joint connection Z3 and the vertical moving member Z1 are caused to move according to their respective movements, which in turn drive or cause the follower joint C1 (and therefore, the upper follower connection 3) to move according to the follower path defined by the rotating mount 12.

[0048] As described above, the rotating mount 12 may be configured to drive the follower joint C1 to travel according to the follower path defined by the mount 12. For example, as the mount 12 rotates, the follower joint C1 may remain tangential to the follower path defined by the rotating mount 12. As described above, the upper follower connector 3 and the lower follower connector 4 may be operably coupled at the follower joint C1. For example, a first upper follower end of the upper follower connector 3 may be operably coupled to a first lower follower end of the lower follower connector 4 at the follower joint C1. In various embodiments, the upper follower connector 3 may be attached to the thigh mechanism 1 at a second upper follower end (e.g., an end at the joint B1) between the hip end of the thigh mechanism 1 (e.g., an end at the hip joint A) and the knee end of the thigh mechanism 1 (e.g., an end at the lower knee joint B2). In various embodiments, the lower follower link 4 can be attached to the calf mechanism 5 at a second lower follower end (e.g., the end at joint C2) between a first end (e.g., lower knee joint B2) and a second end (e.g., heel joint D) of the calf mechanism 5. In some embodiments, the thigh mechanism 1 and the calf mechanism 5 can be operably coupled at the lower knee joint B2.

[0049] In various embodiments, as the follower joint C1 travels according to the follower path defined by the swivel mount 12, the thigh mechanism 1 and the shank mechanism 5 also move about the lower knee joint B2 between different degrees of flexion and straightening positions.

[0050] Now refer to Figure 1E , the leg actuator mechanism is in the first position so that the follower joint C1 is located at the bottom of the follower path defined by the rotating mount 12. In this embodiment, when the follower joint C1 is located below the follower path defined by the rotating mount 12, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism can be greater than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the shank mechanism 5 can be greater than 120 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the shank mechanism 5 can be greater than 150 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the shank mechanism 5 can be slightly less than 180 degrees (for example, between 150 degrees and 180 degrees).

[0051] In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the shank mechanism 5 may be substantially the same as the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the upper follower connection 3 (e.g., the angle defined between the joint A, the joint B1, and the joint C1). In addition, in some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the upper follower connection 3 (e.g., the angle defined between the joint A, the joint B1, and the joint C1) may be substantially the same as the angle defined between the lower follower connection 4 and the shank mechanism (e.g., the angle defined between the joint C1, the joint C2, and the joint D).

[0052] Now refer to Figure 1F , the leg actuator mechanism moves to the second position as the mounting member 12 rotates clockwise, causing the follower joint C1 to travel clockwise according to the follower path defined by the mounting member 12. As the leg actuator mechanism moves from the first position to the second position, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism may only decrease slightly (e.g., less than 30 degrees). In some embodiments, the combination of the thigh mechanism 1 and the shank mechanism 5 may rotate about the hip joint A (e.g., the hip joint A may be stationary).

[0053] Now refer to Figure 1G As the mounting member 12 continues to rotate, causing the follower joint C1 to continue to move according to the follower path defined by the mounting member 12, the leg actuator mechanism moves to the third position. (For example, in the third position, the follower joint C1 may be located directly above the follower joint position in the first position, such as Figure 1E As the follower joint C1 moves from the second position ( Figure 1F ) moves to the third position ( Figure 1G ), the lower follower connector 4 moves the calf mechanism 5 so that the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the calf mechanism 5 can be reduced from the angle defined in the first position and / or the second position. For example, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the calf mechanism 5 can be less than 120 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the calf mechanism 5 can be less than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the calf mechanism 5 can be less than 60 degrees.

[0054] Now refer to Figure 1H, as the mount 12 continues to rotate, causing the follower joint C1 to continue to travel according to the follower path defined by the mount 12, the leg actuator mechanism moves to the fourth position. In various embodiments, as the follower joint travels according to the follower path defined by the mount 12, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism can increase from the third position. In some embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism can be the same at the fourth position as it is at the second position (e.g., the heel joint D rotates about the hip joint A). In various embodiments, as the follower joint is driven to travel according to the follower path defined by the mount 12 (e.g., such as discussed below), the leg actuator mechanism can rotate through Figure 1E to Figure 1H Each location shown.

[0055] In various embodiments, the follower path may define an elliptical path. In various embodiments, the follower path may define a non-elliptical path. In some embodiments, the placement of the heel joint D may be based on the follower joint C1 being positioned in the follower path 2 along a first direction (e.g., along Figure 1E In various embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the shank mechanism 5 can be based on the position of the follower joint C1 in the follower path 2 along the second direction (e.g., along Figure 1E In various embodiments, the first direction and the second direction may be spaced approximately 90 degrees apart from each other (eg, the first direction and the second direction may form approximately a right angle). Figure 1E The first and second directions discussed are generally horizontal and vertical, respectively, but the axis may be rotated so that the first direction is not along the horizontal axis and / or the second direction is not along the vertical axis. In various embodiments, the first and second directions may be defined based on the position of A relative to the follower path. For example, joint A may be in the first direction relative to the follower path (e.g., joint A may be a fixed pivot point of the leg actuator mechanism).

[0056] Now refer to FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B According to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the components shown in the leg actuator mechanism approximate the human body. As shown, the hip joint A corresponds to the pelvis and / or hip area of ​​the human body. In various embodiments, the hip joint A can be fixed during movement. In some embodiments, the thigh mechanism 1 can approximate the femur of the leg. In addition, the lower knee joint B2 can approximate the knee of the leg. In some embodiments, the calf mechanism 5 can approximate the tibia, and the heel or ankle of the person can approximate the heel joint D. In various embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism 1 and the calf mechanism 5 can be the same as the angle defined between the femur and the tibia.

[0057] Now refer to FIG. 3A to FIG. 3B, a portion of a leg actuator mechanism according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. In some embodiments, the leg actuator mechanism may include a mounting plate assembly 6, which is configured as a portion of the leg actuator mechanism. In various embodiments, the femoral mounting connector 6 connects the femur 7a (shown in FIG. 4A to FIG. 8 In some embodiments, the mounting plate 6b may define a follower path 2, which is configured to receive a follower connector C1 (eg, Figure 3B In various embodiments, the angle defined between the femur 7a and the tibia 7c (shown in FIG. 4A to FIG. 8 In some embodiments, the position of the foot of the leg actuator mechanism may be based on the position of the follower joint C1 along the second direction within the follower path, and the position of the foot of the leg actuator mechanism may be based on the position of the follower joint C1 along the first direction within the follower path. Figures 1A to 1D The upper follower connection 3 shown may correspond to the connecting rod 6d. In various embodiments, the drive plate 6c may be configured to drive the follower joint C1 (eg, Figure 3B In various embodiments, the drive plate 6c may be activated by a drive mechanism (eg, as discussed below with reference to FIGS. 9-10 ).

[0058] Now refer to 4A to 4D , showing four different leg positions according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, 4A to 4D The four positions of the leg actuator mechanism shown correspond to the reference Figures 1A to 1D and Figure 1E to Figure 1H There are four positions discussed. 4A to 4D As shown, the position of the leg actuator mechanisms simulates the movement of the legs during locomotion (eg, walking or running).

[0059] As shown in the figure, the movement between the first position and the fourth position simulates the movement of the legs. Figure 5 ,according to Figure 4A The first position shown in FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of the leg actuator mechanism. In various embodiments, the femur 7a may correspond to Figures 1A to 1D and Figure 1E to Figure 1H The thigh mechanism 1 shown. In some embodiments, the inner femoral rod 7b may correspond to Figures 1A to 1D and Figure 1E to Figure 1H The lower follower connector 4 shown. In some embodiments, the tibia 7c may correspond to Figures 1A to 1D and Figure 1E to Figure 1H The lower leg structure 5 is shown. In various embodiments, the angle defined between the femur 7a and the tibia 7c can be slightly less than 180 degrees.

[0060] Now refer to Figure 6 ,according to Figure 4BThe second position shown shows a cross-sectional view of the leg actuator mechanism. Figure 1B As discussed, as the follower joint C1 travels along the follower path, the thigh mechanism (e.g., femur 7a) and the lower leg mechanism (e.g., tibia 7c) rotate about the hip joint A (as shown in FIG. 3 ). Similarly, as described above with reference to Figure 1F As discussed, as the follower joint C1 travels according to the defined follower path, the thigh mechanism (e.g., femur 7a) and the shank mechanism (e.g., tibia 7c) rotate about the hip joint A (shown in FIG. 3 ). In addition, as the leg moves from the first position to the second position, the angle defined between the femur 7a and the tibia 7c may begin to decrease. In various embodiments, the angle between the femur 7a and the tibia 7c may have a predetermined range of motion. For example, in some embodiments, the range of motion may be from approximately 45 degrees to 180 degrees. In various embodiments, the range of motion may be based on the use case (e.g., the range of motion of the angle defined between the femur 7a and the tibia 7c may be similar to the range of motion of the human femur and tibia). In some embodiments, the angle between the femur 7a and the tibia 7c may exceed 180 degrees (e.g., to simulate a wider range of motion). In this embodiment, the joint A may remain stationary, while the other components may operate in mirrored positions.

[0061] Now refer to Figure 7 ,according to Figure 4C The third position shown shows a cross-sectional view of the leg actuator mechanism. Figure 1C As discussed, as the follower joint C1 travels along the follower path from the second position to the third position, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism (e.g., femur 7a) and the lower leg mechanism (e.g., tibia 7c) can continue to decrease. Similarly, as described above with reference to Figure 1G As discussed, as the follower joint C1 travels from the second position to the third position according to the defined follower path, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism (e.g., femur 7a) and the lower leg mechanism (e.g., tibia 7c) may continue to decrease. Additionally, the tibia 7c (and subsequently the foot of the leg) may begin to move forward based on movement along the follower joint C1.

[0062] Now refer to Figure 8 , showing that according to Figure 4D A cross-sectional view of the leg actuator mechanism in the fourth position shown. Figure 1D As discussed, as the follower joint C1 continues to travel along the follower path from the third position to the fourth position, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism (e.g., femur 7a) and the lower leg mechanism (e.g., tibia 7c) begins to increase. Similarly, as described above with reference to Figure 1HAs discussed, as the follower joint C1 continues to travel from the third position to the fourth position according to the defined follower path, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism (e.g., femur 7a) and the shank mechanism (e.g., tibia 7c) begins to increase. In various embodiments, the angle defined between the thigh mechanism (e.g., femur 7a) and the shank mechanism (e.g., tibia 7c) may be the same as the angle at the second position. In various embodiments, in the case where the follower joint C1 continues to travel along the follower path in a clockwise direction, the leg actuator mechanism will move from the fourth position back to the first position. In the case where the follower joint C1 moves clockwise around the follower path, the leg actuator can simulate forward movement (e.g., walking or running forward). In the case where the follower joint C1 moves counterclockwise around the follower path, the leg actuator can simulate backward movement (e.g., walking or running backward).

[0063] Now refer to 9A to 10B , a doll according to an exemplary embodiment of the present embodiment is provided. As shown in the figure, the doll includes a driving mechanism 12, and the driving mechanism 12 is configured to start Figure 3B Movement of drive plate 6c is shown. In various embodiments, drive mechanism 12 may be partially or completely internal and / or external.

[0064] exist Fig. 9B In the exemplary embodiment shown, the drive mechanism 12 may have a mounting bracket 12a. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket 12a may be part of the internal and / or external structure of the doll. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism 12 may have one or more drive plug-ins (e.g., internal drive plug-in 12a and / or external drive plug-in 12d) that are configured to receive a driver plug-in (discussed below with reference to FIG. 11). In various embodiments, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9B As shown, the drive plug can be configured to rotate so that the rotational motion from the drive plug can be transmitted to the drive mechanism 12 and then to the drive disk 6c. In various embodiments, the drive mechanism 12 can include one or more connecting rods, which are configured to transfer rotational motion between different items (e.g., 12j).

[0065] As an example, a driver plug-in (not shown) may be attached to the drive plug-in 12d and transfer the rotational motion to the drive mechanism 12. In this example, the rotational motion may be transferred between the drive plug-in 12d and the disk 12c (e.g., via operative coupling). The disk 12c may then be coupled to the arm mechanism 12b (e.g., to move the arm during movement). Additionally, the rotational motion of the drive plug-in 12d may be transferred to the disk 12f. In this case, the disk 12f may be coupled to the connecting rod 12h so that the rotational motion is transferred to the disk 12i, which is operatively coupled to the drive disk 6c (shown in FIG. 3). Based on the disclosure provided herein, various embodiments will be clear to one of ordinary skill in the art. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B Also shown are additional angles of the drive mechanism 12 that interact with the mounting assembly 6 discussed herein.

[0066] In various embodiments, such as 9A to 10B As shown, doll 8 can be configured with multiple leg actuator mechanisms (e.g., one for each leg). In some embodiments, drive mechanism 12 can be configured to simultaneously activate multiple leg actuator mechanisms (e.g., two legs can be offset to accurately simulate running on two legs). In addition, drive mechanism 12 can be used to rotate one or more arm mechanisms, as discussed herein. In some embodiments, the rotational movement of drive plug-in (e.g., 12e and / or 12d) can cause multiple leg actuator mechanisms and arm mechanisms to move. For example, a drive plug-in can provide rotational movement to two legs and two arms (e.g., of a humanoid doll). Various other animals (e.g., animals with legs) can also be simulated using various embodiments discussed herein. In some embodiments, different features (character) (e.g., humanoid dolls or animals) can have follower paths specifically defined based on the features. For example, to simulate larger movements of legs, the length of the follower path can be longer. In some embodiments, multiple follower paths and / or follower mechanisms can be used to simulate more complex movements (e.g., to simulate animals with legs with multiple joints).

[0067] Now refer to FIG. 11A to FIG. 11B, providing multiple views of a carrying mechanism 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In various embodiments, the carrying mechanism 10 may include a drive control device (e.g., a steering wheel and / or a handle bar 10a). In some embodiments, the carrying mechanism 10 may optionally have an impact barrier 10b to protect a doll during operation. In some embodiments, the presence of the impact barrier 10b may be based on the material of the doll (e.g., a doll made of a cushioning material such as polyurethane foam may not need to be protected). In various embodiments, the carrying mechanism 10 may include a doll latch 10c, which is configured to removably attach the doll to the carrying mechanism. In addition, as described in reference Figure 12 to Figure 13 As discussed, the carrying mechanism may include a carrier latch 10d configured to removably attach the doll to the carrying mechanism 10. In some embodiments, the carrying mechanism may be integral with the carrier. Various carrying mechanisms 10 may be used to transfer rotational motion to the drive mechanism 12 discussed above, and FIG. 11A to FIG. 13 The exemplary embodiments are intended to be illustrative only.

[0068] like Fig. 11C As shown, the driver plug-in 10e can be configured to cooperate with a drive plug-in (e.g., drive plug-in 12e) so that the rotation of the driver plug-in 10e can be transmitted to the drive mechanism 12. In various embodiments, the driver plug-in 10e can be in communication with one or more wheels of the carrier mechanism 10 (e.g., the rotational movement of the wheel can be transmitted to the driver plug-in 10e via a pulley or a connecting rod).

[0069] Now refer to Fig.12 and 13 According to an exemplary embodiment, a mobile doll system is provided. Now referring to Fig.12 , the doll 8, the carrying mechanism 10 and the carrier 11 are provided separately from each other. Fig.13, the doll 8 can be attached to the carrying mechanism 10, as discussed above (e.g., the operative coupling of the drive plug-in to the driver plug-in). In addition, the carrier 11 can be attached to the carrying mechanism 10 via the carrier latch 10d discussed above. In some embodiments, the carrier 11 and the carrying mechanism 10 can be an integral unit (e.g., a specially designed carrier including the carrying mechanism). In various embodiments, other types of vehicles 11 can be used. For example, the vehicle can be a recreational vehicle, such as a bicycle, a scooter, a miniature car, a radio-controlled car, and a skateboard, or the like. In various embodiments, the vehicle can be designed specifically for a given doll (e.g., used as a set). Additionally or alternatively, the carrying mechanism 10 can be an accessory to an existing vehicle (e.g., the carrying mechanism can be attached to a bicycle).

[0070] The various embodiments discussed herein allow a doll to simulate movement (e.g., running and / or walking) in a more realistic manner, which provides a more immersive user experience. For example, the embodiments discussed herein allow a doll to "run" with a child riding a vehicle (such as a bicycle or scooter or the like).

[0071] Although the present invention is illustrated and described herein with reference to preferred embodiments and specific examples thereof, it is clear to those skilled in the art that other embodiments and examples may perform similar functions and / or achieve similar results. All such equivalent embodiments and examples are within the spirit and scope of the present invention, and are thereby conceived and intended to be covered by the appended claims.

[0072] A technician in the field to which the present invention belongs who benefits from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings will think of many modifications and other embodiments of the present invention set forth herein. Therefore, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, although the foregoing description and the associated drawings describe exemplary embodiments in the context of certain exemplary combinations of elements and / or functions, it should be understood that further embodiments may provide different combinations of elements and / or functions without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, for example, it is also conceivable to have different combinations of elements and / or functions than those explicitly described above, as set forth in some of the appended claims. Although specific terms are used herein, they are used only in a general descriptive sense, and not for restrictive purposes.

Claims

1. A leg actuator mechanism, comprising: The thigh mechanism, including the hip end and the opposing knee end; a shank mechanism including a first end, the first end of the shank mechanism being operably coupled to the opposing knee end of the thigh mechanism; as well as The follower mechanism comprises: A rotating mounting member defines a path of a follower member; a follower joint connector operably coupled to the rotary mount and the follower joint; an upper follower connector; and a lower follower connection, wherein the upper follower connection and the lower follower connection are operably coupled to the follower joint, Wherein, the follower mechanism is configured to move at least one of the thigh mechanism or the calf mechanism when activated.

2. The leg actuator mechanism of claim 1, wherein the leg actuator mechanism is configured to rotate through a plurality of positions as the follower joint moves along the follower path.

3. The leg actuator mechanism of claim 1, wherein the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism is based on a position of the follower joint along the follower path.

4. The leg actuator mechanism of claim 1, wherein the combination of the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism is rotatable about the hip end of the thigh mechanism.

5. The leg actuator mechanism of claim 1, further comprising a drive mechanism configured to move the follower joint along the follower path.

6. The leg actuator mechanism of claim 1, wherein the leg actuator mechanism is configured to simulate at least one of forward motion or backward motion.

7. The leg actuator mechanism of claim 1, wherein: The leg actuator mechanism includes at least two follower mechanisms and at least two follower paths.

8. A method of manufacturing a leg actuator mechanism, the method comprising: providing a thigh mechanism, the thigh mechanism comprising a hip end and an opposing knee end; providing a calf mechanism including a first end, wherein the first end of the calf mechanism is operably coupled to the knee end of the thigh portion; as well as defining a follower path along the rotational mount, the follower path being configured to drive a follower joint along the follower path; operably coupling a follower joint connector to the rotary mount and the follower joint; operably coupling an upper follower connector to the follower joint; as well as operably coupling a lower follower connector to the follower joint, The swivel mount, the follower joint connection, the upper follower connection, and the lower follower connection define a follower mechanism, and the follower mechanism is configured to move at least one of the thigh mechanism or the shank mechanism when activated.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the leg actuator mechanism is configured to rotate through a plurality of positions as the follower joint moves along the follower path.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the angle defined between the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism is based on a position of the follower joint along the follower path.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the combination of the thigh mechanism and the shank mechanism is rotatable about the hip end of the thigh mechanism.

12. The method of claim 8, further comprising providing a drive mechanism configured to move the follower joint along the follower path.

13. A doll for dynamic movement, the doll comprising: The doll body is provided with a plurality of movable legs; a plurality of leg actuator mechanisms configured to move the plurality of movable legs, each leg actuator mechanism comprising: a thigh mechanism and a shank mechanism operably coupled to the thigh mechanism, a follower mechanism including a rotating mount defining a follower path, wherein the follower mechanism is configured to move at least one of the thigh mechanism or the shank mechanism via the rotating mount upon activation; as well as A drive mechanism includes a drive plug, wherein the rotational movement of the drive plug is transmitted to the plurality of leg actuator mechanisms via one or more connecting rods.

14. The doll of claim 13, wherein the drive insert is configured to receive a driver insert configured to activate the drive mechanism.

15. The doll of claim 13, further comprising a carrier mechanism operably attached to the drive mechanism, wherein the carrier mechanism is configured with the driver insert to activate the drive mechanism via rotational movement.

16. The toy figure of claim 15, wherein the driver insert is internal to the toy figure body.

17. The doll of claim 15, wherein the carrying mechanism includes a drive control.

18. A mobile doll system, comprising: A doll for dynamic movement, the doll comprising a doll body, the doll body being configured with at least one movable leg; A leg actuator mechanism comprising: a thigh mechanism and a shank mechanism operably coupled to the thigh mechanism; a follower mechanism comprising a rotating mount defining a follower path, wherein the follower mechanism is configured to move the at least one movable leg mechanism via the rotating mount; and a drive mechanism including a drive insert, wherein rotational movement of the drive insert is transmitted to the leg actuator mechanism via one or more connecting rods; and A carrier mechanism is configured to engage the drive plug.

19. The mobile doll system of claim 18, further comprising a vehicle coupled to the carrying mechanism, wherein movement of the vehicle is configured to be transferred to the at least one movable leg of the doll.

20. The mobile doll system according to claim 19, wherein the supporting mechanism and the carrier are integrated.

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