Bubble generating device

Abstract

A bubble-generating device comprises an airflow generator 12 arranged to provide airflow along an airflow path 14, a reservoir 16 configured to contain bubble solution 18, and at least one bubble-form

Description

The present invention relates to a bubble-generating device, and more particularly to a bubble-generating device configured to generate bubble patterns, the device having a selectively actuatable bubble-forming mechanism arranged to enable controlled and discretely timed bubble outputs. The invention is especially, but not exclusively, applicable to toys and entertainment devices capable of generating controlled bubble sequences, and possibly, but not exclusively, may be used to convey encoded bubble sequences with the bubble output appearing to casual observers as ordinary bubble play. Bubble-generating toys and devices are widely known and typically comprise a reservoir for bubble solution, a bubble-forming member, and a source of airflow such as a fan. In many conventional arrangements, a bubble-forming ring or disc is rotated continuously through bubble solution and into an airflow path, thereby producing a continuous stream of bubbles while the device is energised. For example, US 4,423,565 discloses a hand-held bubble-generating device in which a motor-driven rotating ring assembly dips into a reservoir of bubble solution and is then exposed to airflow generated by an internal fan. When activated, such devices typically produce a substantially continuous stream of bubbles for as long as the device remains energised. In these arrangements, bubble generation is intrinsically linked to continuous rotation of the bubble-forming member, and the bubble-forming member does not occupy a stable non-generating rest position while the airflow generator remains operative. Bubble output therefore depends upon ongoing mechanical rotation. Earlier hand-held bubble guns, such as those disclosed in US 2,802,298 and US 3,834,066, utilise trigger-actuated airflow or pumping mechanisms to force air across a bubble film formed on a ring or aperture. In such devices, bubble generation occurs only while the trigger is actuated and airflow is actively generated. Bubble output is therefore directly dependent upon energisation of the airflow source or pumping mechanism, and termination of bubble production requires interruption of airflow. Other known devices utilise pivoting or reciprocating dip arms that periodically immerse a bubble-forming member in solution before presenting it to an airflow source. For example, US 4,700,965 discloses a mechanism in which a dip arm is engaged by rotation of a wheel, such that immersion and exposure of the bubble-forming member occur cyclically as the device moves. In such arrangements, bubble formation occurs automatically as part of a continuous mechanical cycle and not in response to deliberate, selectively timed actuation by a user or controller. The bubble-forming member is not selectively positionable in a stable non-generating state while airflow is available but instead follows the kinematics of the driving component. In the rotating systems of US 4,423,565, bubble output is governed by continuous rotation of the bubble-forming member. In the trigger-actuated systems of US 2,802,298 and US 3,834,066, bubble output is governed by interruption and reestablishment of airflow. In the cyclic dip-arm system of US 4,700,965, bubble output is governed by periodic mechanical cycling. In each case, bubble generation is effectively the default operating condition when the device is energised or actuated, and modulation of bubble output is not achieved by selective positioning of a bubble-forming aperture relative to a continuously available airflow path. In particular, known devices do not appear to provide a configuration in which airflow generation and bubble modulation are functionally separated such that airflow may remain available while bubble output is controlled solely by positioning of a bubble-forming aperture relative to the airflow path. Where a user attempts to generate discrete bubble bursts using conventional trigger-operated bubble guns, bubble production is typically achieved by starting and stopping the airflow generator and / or associated drive motor. This approach may result in inconsistent output and delayed response due to motor inertia, and may increase power consumption due to repeated energisation. Furthermore, such systems do not separate airflow generation from bubble modulation, since airflow must generally be interrupted in order to terminate bubble production. There therefore remains a need for a bubble-generating device capable of producing selectively controlled and discretely timed bubble outputs using a simple and reliable mechanical arrangement. In particular, there is a need for a device in which bubble generation is not the default operating condition, and in which bubble output is determined by controlled positioning of a bubble-forming aperture relative to an airflow path while airflow may remain available, rather than by continuous rotation of a member on which said bubble-forming aperture is provided, or interruption of the airflow generator to terminate bubble production. The present invention seeks to address at least some of the above issues by providing a bubble-generating architecture in which bubble formation is controlled by selective insertion of a bubble-forming aperture into an airflow path. According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a bubble-generating device as defined in the appended independent apparatus claim 1. According to this first embodiment, the bubble-generating device comprises an airflow generator arranged to provide an airflow along an airflow path, a reservoir configured to contain bubble solution, and at least one bubble-forming aperture supported on a rocker member mounted for pivotal movement about a fixed axis. The rocker member is movable between a first position, in which the aperture is immersed in the bubble solution and located outside the airflow path, and a second position, in which the aperture is withdrawn from the bubble solution and positioned within the airflow path, the rocker member being biased toward said first position. When the rocker member is moved into the second position, the aperture is stationary relative to the airflow path and bubbles are generated by airflow passing through the aperture. The rocker member may be held in the second position for a dwell period during which bubbles are generated. Bubble generation continues for so long as the aperture is maintained within the airflow path and ceases when the aperture is moved out of the airflow path. This arrangement tends to enable a stable default non-generating state together with selectively controlled bubble production, may reduce unintended bubble output during storage or handling, and may provide consistent bubble formation without reliance on continuously rotating bubble-forming members. By controlling bubble generation through selective positioning of the bubble-forming aperture relative to the airflow path, the device separates airflow generation from bubble modulation. Airflow may therefore remain available while initiation and termination of bubble production are determined by movement of the rocker member. This arrangement tends to enable discretely timed bubble outputs to be produced without requiring continuous rotation of a bubble-forming member or repeated interruption of the airflow generator. The arrangement may thereby improve responsiveness and repeatability of bubble output while maintaining a mechanically simple structure. In the present arrangement, bubble generation is decoupled from both (i) continuous rotation of a bubble-forming member and (ii) interruption of the airflow generator. Instead, bubble generation is initiated and terminated by selectively positioning the bubble-forming aperture relative to an airflow path while the airflow may remain available. This tends to provide a repeatable “valve-like” bubble modulation behaviour in which bubble output is determined by the time for which the aperture is maintained within the airflow path while the airflow generator continues to provide airflow along the airflow path. Preferably, the airflow generator is operable to provide a continuous airflow during movement of the rocker member between the first and second positions. In this embodiment, the airflow is maintained while the aperture is moved into and out of the airflow path, such that bubble generation is controlled solely by movement of the rocker member rather than by starting or stopping the airflow generator. This arrangement tends to enable improved response time and more precise control of bubble output, and may reduce mechanical wear and electrical stress associated with repeated energisation and de-energisation of the airflow generator. The rocker member may be movable between a first position in which the aperture is immersed in the bubble solution and located outside the airflow path, and a second position in which the aperture is withdrawn from the bubble solution and positioned within the airflow path. In embodiments comprising a manually operable lever, actuation of the lever causes the rocker member to pivot about its fixed axis, thereby withdrawing the bubble-forming aperture from the bubble solution and into the airflow path to initiate bubble generation. This arrangement tends to enable direct user control of bubble production, may provide a simple and intuitive operating mechanism, and may reduce complexity compared with electrically actuated systems. The rocker member may be biased toward the first position such that, in the absence of actuation, the aperture remains immersed in bubble solution and outside the airflow path, and bubbles are generated only when the aperture is positioned in the second position. In this embodiment, release of the manually operable lever permits the rocker member to return automatically to the first position under the bias, the biasing means urging the rocker member back to the immersed position in which the aperture is located outside the airflow path, thereby terminating bubble generation. This arrangement tends to enable automatic cessation of bubble output and automatic re-immersion and re-wetting of the bubble-forming aperture upon release of the lever, may improve reliability by ensuring return to a stable non-generating state, and may reduce the likelihood of unintended bubble production. The actuator may comprise a solenoid arranged to move the rocker member between the first and second positions. Energisation of the solenoid causes linear displacement of a plunger which is coupled to the rocker member so as to pivot the rocker member about its fixed axis and position the aperture within the airflow path. This arrangement tends to enable rapid and precise actuation of the rocker member, may improve repeatability of bubble output timing, and may provide a compact and mechanically simple implementation suitable for integration within a handheld device. The actuator may comprise a motor-driven linkage arranged to move the rocker member between the first and second positions. Operation of the motor drives the linkage to pivot the rocker member about its fixed axis, thereby withdrawing the aperture from the bubble solution and into the airflow path for bubble generation. This arrangement tends to enable controlled and adjustable movement of the rocker member, may allow variation of actuation speed or dwell time in the second position, and may improve flexibility in generating different bubble output patterns. Advantageously, a first dwell time duration of the rocker member in the second position generates a first quantity of bubbles and a second dwell time duration of the rocker member in the second position generates a second quantity of bubbles. By controlling the duration for which the rocker member remains positioned in the second position, i.e. the dwell time, the device controls the quantity of bubbles generated during each actuation interval. This arrangement tends to enable different bubble output amounts to be produced using the same bubble-forming aperture, may permit generation of distinguishable bubble signals or patterns without requiring multiple apertures, and may improve flexibility in generating programmable or user-defined bubble sequences. According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a bubble pattern generator comprising a bubble-generating device as described above, together with an actuator configured to move the rocker member between the first and second positions and a controller configured to operate the actuator in accordance with a predetermined bubble output pattern such that bubbles are generated in discrete intervals corresponding to the pattern. The controller selectively actuates the rocker member to position the aperture within the airflow path for defined time periods, thereby producing bubble outputs that correspond to a stored or selected pattern. This arrangement tends to enable programmable or selectable bubble sequences to be generated in a controlled and repeatable manner, and may improve consistency and precision of patterned bubble output compared with purely manual actuation. This arrangement tends to enable programmable or selectable bubble sequences to be generated, including symbolic, decorative, or rhythmic patterns. The controller may be configured to store a plurality of selectable bubble output patterns. The controller may therefore retrieve and execute different predetermined actuation sequences to move the rocker member between the first and second positions in accordance with a selected pattern. This arrangement tends to enable a user to choose between different bubble sequences, may improve versatility of the device, and may facilitate repeatable generation of complex or decorative bubble patterns. Alternatively, the controller may be programmed by a user to produce user created patterns, or select and execute preprogrammed patterns. The predetermined bubble output pattern may correspond to encoded symbolic information. The controller actuates the rocker member in accordance with a defined encoding scheme such that discrete bubble intervals represent elements of the symbolic information. This arrangement tends to enable transmission or display of information using bubble sequences, and may expand the functionality of the device beyond purely decorative bubble generation. The encoded symbolic information may comprise Morse code. In such an embodiment, the controller actuates the rocker member to generate discrete bubble intervals corresponding to dots and dashes of the Morse code sequence, such that bubble output represents encoded alphanumeric characters or signals. This arrangement tends to enable educational or signalling applications, and may provide an engaging visual representation of coded information through controlled bubble generation. The rocker member may support a plurality of bubble-forming apertures. The apertures may be arranged on the rocker member such that, when moved into the second position, one or more selected apertures are positioned within the airflow path to generate bubbles. This arrangement tends to enable variation in bubble output characteristics using a single rocker mechanism, and may improve flexibility in producing different bubble patterns or bubble densities. A first aperture may be configured to generate a single bubble and a second aperture may comprise multiple openings configured to generate a stream of bubbles. When positioned within the airflow path, the first aperture may produce an individual bubble, whereas the second aperture, by virtue of its multiple openings, may produce a plurality of bubbles in succession or substantially simultaneously. This arrangement tends to enable structural differentiation between discrete and continuous bubble outputs, and may improve clarity and consistency of patterned bubble generation without relying solely on variation of actuation duration. The device may further comprise a first user input configured to move the first aperture into the second position and a second user input configured to move the second aperture into the second position. Actuation of the respective user inputs selectively positions either the single-bubble aperture or the multi-opening aperture within the airflow path to generate the corresponding bubble output. This arrangement tends to enable intuitive user selection between different bubble output modes, may improve manual control over patterned bubble generation, and may provide a simple means of distinguishing between discrete and continuous bubble sequences. The first and second apertures may be selectively positionable in the airflow path by movement of the rocker member. Movement of the rocker member about its fixed axis brings a selected one of the apertures into alignment with the airflow path while maintaining the other aperture outside the airflow. This arrangement tends to enable selection between different bubble-forming configurations using a single pivotal support structure, and may simplify the mechanical architecture while preserving flexibility of bubble output. The rocker member may be movable only between the first and second positions. The rocker member tends to therefore be constrained to a defined binary movement between the immersed, non-generating position and the withdrawn, bubble-generating position, without intermediate operating states. This arrangement tends to enable predictable and repeatable actuation, may simplify control of bubble output, and may improve mechanical reliability by limiting the range of motion. The fixed axis of the rocker member is preferably located above the reservoir. The rocker member therefore pivots downwardly into the bubble solution in the first position and upwardly away from the solution into the airflow path in the second position. This arrangement tends to enable reliable immersion of the aperture under gravity when returning to the first position, may assist drainage of excess bubble solution when raised, and may contribute to consistent bubble formation during repeated operation. Preferably, the airflow generator comprises a fan arranged to direct airflow along the airflow path toward the bubble-forming aperture. Operation of the fan provides a controlled stream of air for passing through the aperture when the rocker member is in the second position, thereby generating bubbles. This arrangement tends to provide a simple and compact airflow source, may enable consistent bubble formation, and may be readily integrated within a handheld or self-contained device. Bubble generation is advantageously controlled solely by movement of the rocker member relative to the airflow path. The airflow generator may therefore remain operative while initiation and termination of bubble production are determined exclusively by positioning of the aperture within or outside the airflow path. This arrangement tends to enable precise modulation of bubble output without requiring activation and deactivation of the airflow generator, and may improve response time and consistency of bubble generation relative to manual actuation alone. The rocker member may include a spring providing the bias toward the first position. The spring urges the rocker member toward the immersed, non-generating position in the absence of actuation, thereby maintaining the aperture within the bubble solution and outside the airflow path. This arrangement tends to provide a simple and reliable return mechanism, may improve consistency of operation over repeated cycles, and may reduce the likelihood of unintended bubble generation when the device is not actively actuated. The first position may prevent inadvertent bubble generation during storage or handling. With the rocker member biased toward the immersed position in which the aperture is located outside the airflow path, bubble formation cannot occur unless the rocker member is deliberately actuated into the second position. This arrangement tends to improve safety and cleanliness during transport or storage, and may reduce unintended discharge of bubble solution or bubbles when the device is not in use. The invention therefore provides a mechanically simple yet controllable bubble-generating architecture in which bubble output is determined by selective insertion of a bubble-forming aperture into a continuous airflow path. The present invention tends to enable discrete and controllable bubble output without reliance on continuous rotation of a bubble-forming member, may reduce unintended bubble generation during storage or handling by virtue of the rocker member being biased toward the first position, may improve response time since airflow need not be started and stopped for each bubble sequence, may permit programmable or selectable bubble patterns through integration with a controller and actuator, and may provide a simplified mechanical construction compared with cyclic cam-driven or continuously rotating systems. The arrangement further separates airflow generation from bubble modulation, such that bubble output is determined by positioning of the aperture relative to the airflow path rather than by interruption of the airflow itself. A particular difficulty in known bubble devices is achieving repeatable, discretely timed bubble outputs while maintaining a wetted bubble-forming aperture and while avoiding the need to repeatedly start and stop a motor, fan, or pump. In practice, repeatedly energising and de-energising an airflow generator can introduce latency, inconsistent output, and increased electrical and mechanical stress, while continuously rotating bubble-forming members inherently favour continuous bubble streams and can generate bubbles unintentionally while energised. According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of generating a bubble pattern using the bubble-generating device comprising the steps of operating the airflow generator to provide airflow along the airflow path, and operating the at least one rocker member to move a bubble-forming aperture into the airflow path for a plurality of dwell intervals separated by return movements to the first position, the durations of the dwell intervals defining a bubble output pattern. By maintaining airflow and controlling bubble generation through selective positioning of the aperture relative to the airflow path, the method tends to enable discrete intervals of bubble production corresponding to movement of the rocker member. This arrangement tends to enable controlled generation of bubble patterns, may improve precision of bubble output timing, and may reduce reliance on starting and stopping an airflow generator to achieve patterned bubble sequences. Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a bubble-generating device according to an embodiment of the invention, showing a rocker member supporting a bubble-forming aperture movable between a first position (A) immersed in bubble solution and a second position (B) positioned within an airflow path, wherein the rocker member is shown in the first position (A); Figure 2 is a schematic view of the device according to Figure 1 showing the rocker member in the second position (B) in which the bubble-forming aperture is withdrawn from the bubble solution and positioned within the airflow path to generate bubbles; Figure 3 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the present invention in which the rocker member supports a plurality of bubble-forming apertures configured to generate different bubble outputs; Figure 4 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the present invention incorporating an actuator and controller configured to move the rocker member in accordance with a predetermined bubble output pattern; and Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of an example use-case in which a first user (e.g. a first child) operates an embodiment of the present invention to emit bubbles toward a second user (e.g. a second child) located at a distance. The emitted bubbles are shown as a sequence comprising individual bubbles and groups / streams of bubbles, representing respective “dot” and “dash” elements of an encoded pattern, such as a Morse-code sequence, that may be observed and interpreted by the second user. Referring firstly to Figure 1, there is shown schematically a bubble-generating device 10. The device 10 comprises an airflow generator 12 arranged to provide an airflow along an airflow path 14, a reservoir 16 configured to contain bubble solution 18, and at least one bubble-forming aperture 22 supported on a rocker member 20. The bubble-forming aperture 22 may comprise a loop, ring, frame, or other opening defining structure configured to support a film of bubble solution for bubble generation. The airflow path 14 may be defined by a duct, channel, or passage formed within the housing of the device 10, the duct directing airflow from the airflow generator toward a region in which the bubble-forming aperture 22 is positioned when the rocker member 20 is in the second position. The rocker member 20 is mounted for pivotal movement about a fixed axis 24. The rocker member 20 is movable between a first position and a second position. In some embodiments, the device 10 comprises a plurality of rocker members, each supporting one or more respective bubble-forming apertures. In the first position, the bubble-forming aperture 22 is immersed in the bubble solution 18 and located outside the airflow path 14. Immersion of the aperture 22 in the bubble solution 18 forms a film of bubble solution 18 across the aperture 22. In this manner the rocker member 20 and aperture 22 together define a bubble-wand element which, when wetted by immersion, presents a bubble film for bubble generation when subsequently positioned within the airflow path 14. In the second position, the rocker member 20 is pivoted such that the aperture 22 is withdrawn from the bubble solution 18 and positioned within the airflow path 14. The rocker member 20 is biased toward the first position such that, in the absence of actuation, the aperture 22 remains immersed in the bubble solution 18 and located outside the airflow path 14. In this manner the first position defines a stable non-generating state of the device 10. When the rocker member 20 is positioned in the second position, the aperture 22 is stationary relative to the airflow path 14 such that airflow interacts with a bubble film formed across the aperture 22 to generate bubbles, and bubbles (not shown) are generated by airflow passing through the aperture 22. The rocker member 20 therefore remains stationary in the second position while bubble generation occurs, and remains in that position until actuation ceases. In one preferred embodiment, the airflow generator is operable to provide continuous airflow during movement of the rocker member 20 between the first and second positions, the rocker member 20 is biased toward the first position, and a stop 36 defines the second position such that the aperture 22 is held stationary relative to the airflow path 14 during a dwell time in which bubbles are generated. In preferred embodiments the airflow generator 12 is operable to provide a continuous airflow during movement of the rocker member 20 between the first and second positions. In such embodiments the airflow generator 12 may remain energised while the rocker member 20 moves between the first and second positions. Airflow along the airflow path 14 is therefore available regardless of the instantaneous position of the rocker member 20. Bubble generation is consequently determined by whether the bubble-forming aperture 22 is positioned within the airflow path 14 or outside the airflow path 14, rather than by activation or deactivation of the airflow generator. In preferred embodiments the airflow path 14 is fixed relative to the housing of the device 10 and the rocker member 20 is the primary moving element controlling whether bubble generation occurs. In the first position, the aperture 22 is immersed in the bubble solution 18 and located outside the airflow path 14 such that bubbles are not generated even though airflow may be present. When the rocker member 20 is moved into the second position, the aperture 22 is withdrawn from the bubble solution 18 and positioned within the airflow path 14. Airflow along the airflow path then interacts with the bubble solution film across the aperture 22 to generate bubbles. In this manner bubble generation is controlled solely by movement of the rocker member 20 relative to the airflow path 14. Maintaining continuous airflow may improve response time, since bubble generation can begin immediately when the aperture 22 enters the airflow path 14 and cease immediately when the aperture 22 leaves the airflow path 14. This arrangement may also reduce mechanical and electrical stress associated with repeated energisation and de-energisation of the airflow generator. In one embodiment the device 10 further comprises a manually operable lever 30 configured to move the rocker member 20 from the first position to the second position. The lever 30 may be mounted on the housing of the device 10 and operatively coupled to the rocker member 20 such that actuation of the lever causes the rocker member 20 to pivot about the fixed axis 24. The lever 30 may be directly connected to the rocker member 20 or may act through a linkage or cam arrangement. Actuation of the lever 30 therefore causes the rocker member 20 to rotate about the fixed axis 24, thereby withdrawing the bubble-forming aperture 22 from the bubble solution 18 and positioning the aperture 22 within the airflow path 14. In preferred embodiments the rocker member 20 is biased toward the first position, for example by a spring or other biasing element. In such arrangements the lever 30 acts against the bias when actuated by a user. Release of the lever 30 therefore permits the rocker member 20 to return automatically to the first position under the bias, causing the aperture 22 to re-enter the bubble solution 18 and move outside the airflow path 14. This arrangement provides a simple and intuitive mechanism by which a user may manually initiate and terminate bubble generation. When the lever 30 is depressed and the rocker member 20 is positioned in the second position, airflow along the airflow path 14 interacts with the bubble solution film across the aperture 22 to generate bubbles. When the lever 30 is released and the rocker member 20 returns to the first position, the aperture 22 leaves the airflow path 14 and bubble generation ceases. In some embodiments the number of bubbles generated during an actuation interval depends on the duration for which the aperture 22 remains positioned within the airflow path 14. This is known as dwell time. Accordingly, a user may control the quantity or length of bubble output by controlling the duration for which the lever 30 remains actuated. In some embodiments the device 10 further comprises a stop 36 arranged to define the second position of the rocker member 20. Engagement of the rocker member 20 with the stop 36 limits further movement of the rocker member 20 and positions the bubble-forming aperture 22 within the airflow path 14. The stop 36 may thereby hold the rocker member 20 in a stable second position in which the aperture 22 remains stationary relative to the airflow path 14 while bubbles are generated. Provision of the stop 36 may improve repeatability of bubble generation by ensuring that the aperture 22 is positioned in a consistent location relative to the airflow path 14 during each actuation. In another embodiment the device 10 forms part of a bubble pattern generator. In this embodiment the rocker member 20 is moved between the first and second positions by an actuator 32, as shown in Figure 4. The actuator 32 may comprise, for example, a solenoid arranged to produce linear displacement of a plunger, or a motor-driven linkage arranged to convert rotational motion of a motor into pivotal movement of the rocker member 20 about the fixed axis 24. Other actuator arrangements capable of selectively moving the rocker member 20 between the first and second positions may alternatively be used. Where a solenoid is employed, energisation of the solenoid may cause a plunger to extend or retract, the plunger being coupled directly or indirectly to the rocker member 20 such that displacement of the plunger pivots the rocker member 20 about the fixed axis 24. De-energisation of the solenoid may permit the rocker member 20 to return to the first position under the bias described above. Where a motor-driven linkage is employed, a motor may drive a crank, cam, gear arrangement, or other transmission element configured to move the rocker member 20 between the first and second positions. Operation of the actuator 32 is controlled by a controller 34 configured to operate the actuator 32 in accordance with a predetermined bubble output pattern such that bubbles are generated in discrete intervals corresponding to the pattern. In particular, the controller 34 may actuate the actuator 32 to move the rocker member 20 into the second position for a defined period of time and subsequently return the rocker member 20 to the first position. The duration for which the rocker member 20 remains in the second position therefore determines the length of bubble output generated during each actuation interval. The controller 34 may comprise, for example, a microcontroller or other programmable control circuit arranged to control energisation of the actuator 32. In some embodiments the controller 34 is configured to store a plurality of selectable bubble output patterns. A user may therefore select a desired bubble pattern, for example by means of a switch, button, or other user input interface provided on the device. In some embodiments the controller 34 may further be configured to receive a user input defining a custom bubble output pattern. In such arrangements the user may define a sequence of bubble outputs by providing input commands corresponding to desired bubble intervals. The device may further provide user feedback, for example by a light or sound, indicative of pattern selection, message entry, or bubble output timing. In certain embodiments the predetermined bubble output pattern corresponds to encoded symbolic information. For example, the encoded symbolic information may comprise Morse code, in which dots and dashes correspond to bubble outputs of different duration. The controller 34 may therefore actuate the rocker member 20 to produce short and long bubble intervals corresponding to dots and dashes of a Morse code sequence. In some embodiments the controller 34 is configured to generate the predetermined bubble output pattern automatically from a user message. For example, a user may input a text string or other message via a user interface, and the controller 34 may encode the message in accordance with a predetermined encoding scheme such as Morse code. The controller 34 may then control the actuator 32 to move the rocker member 20 between the first and second positions for respective dwell intervals corresponding to the encoded elements, such that the resulting bubble output represents the encoded message without requiring the user to be familiar with the encoding scheme. The controller 34 may further apply predetermined timing rules for element spacing and character spacing in generating the dwell intervals. In this manner bubble sequences produced by the device may represent encoded characters, signals, or messages, which may be communicated visually through the generated bubble pattern. Children equipped with respective devices may exchange Morse-encoded messages across a space such as a garden or playground by observing the sequence of bubbles produced, the resulting bubble signals appearing to casual observers as nothing more than decorative bubble play but to the children represent covert communication. This is shown in Figure 5. The actuator 32 and controller 34 arrangement enables automated and repeatable generation of bubble sequences corresponding to stored or user-defined patterns. In some embodiments the rocker member 20 supports a plurality of bubble-forming apertures. The apertures may be arranged on the rocker member such that, when the rocker member is moved into the second position, a selected one of the apertures is positioned within the airflow path 14 while the remaining aperture or apertures remain outside the airflow path. For example, a first aperture 22a may be configured to generate a single bubble, while a second aperture 22b comprises multiple openings configured to generate a stream of bubbles. The multiple openings of the second aperture 22b may be arranged as a cluster or array of smaller apertures such that airflow passing through the openings produces a plurality of bubbles in succession or substantially simultaneously. In certain embodiments a plurality of rocker members 20 may be provided, each rocker member supporting one or more respective bubble-forming apertures 22a, 22b. For example, a first rocker member 20a may support a single bubble-forming aperture 22a configured to generate individual bubbles, while a second rocker member 20b may support a multi-opening aperture 22b configured to generate a stream of bubbles. In such embodiments, a controller 34 and / or respective user inputs may selectively actuate the rocker members 20a, 20b, to generate different bubble outputs, for example shorter and longer bubble intervals corresponding to dots and dashes of a Morse-code sequence. In this arrangement the first aperture 22a may produce an individual bubble when positioned in the airflow path, whereas the second aperture 22b may produce a continuous or near-continuous stream of bubbles during the period in which it remains positioned within the airflow path 14. The device 10 may further comprise a first user input configured to move the first aperture 22a into the second position and a second user input configured to move the second aperture 22b into the second position. For example, the respective user inputs may comprise separate buttons, levers, or switches which cause the respective rocker member 20a, 20b, to move in a manner that positions the selected aperture 22a, 22b, within the airflow path. In this manner the first and second apertures 22a, 22b, are selectively positionable in the airflow path 14 by movement of their respective rocker member 20a, 20b. Providing multiple apertures 22a, 22b, on rocker members 20a, 20b, in this way enables different bubble output modes to be generated using the same airflow generator and reservoir 16. For example, the single-bubble aperture 22a may be used to generate discrete bubble outputs, while the multi-opening aperture 22b may be used to generate a stream of bubbles. In certain embodiments this arrangement may be used to generate different bubble outputs corresponding to encoded symbolic information. For example, the singlebubble aperture 22a may be used to represent a dot and the multi-opening aperture 22b may be used to represent a dash in a Morse-code sequence. In some embodiments the rocker member 20 is movable only between the first and second positions. Movement of the rocker member 20 may therefore be constrained such that intermediate operating positions are not maintained during normal operation of the device. For example, the rocker member 20 may be guided by the geometry of its mounting or by engagement with mechanical stops defining the first and second positions. In this manner the rocker member 20 may move between a defined immersed position in which the bubble-forming aperture 22 is located within the bubble solution 18 and a defined withdrawn or raised position in which the aperture 22 is positioned within the airflow path 14. The fixed axis 24 of the rocker member 20 may be located above the reservoir 16, such that the rocker member 20 pivots downwardly into the bubble solution 18 in the first position and upwardly away from the bubble solution 18 in the second position. Locating the pivot axis 24 above the reservoir 16 may assist reliable immersion of the bubble-forming aperture 22 in the bubble solution 18 when the rocker member 20 returns to the first position. This arrangement may also assist drainage of excess bubble solution 18 from the aperture 22 when the rocker member 20 is moved into the second position. In some embodiments the reservoir 16 is removable and / or replaceable, for example as a refill cartridge, to facilitate cleaning and replenishment of bubble solution 18. Furthermore, in some embodiments a drip feature, wiper, or lip is provided adjacent the reservoir 16 to remove excess bubble solution 18 from the aperture 22 as the rocker member 20 moves toward the second position, thereby reducing dripping and improving consistency of bubble formation. The airflow generator 12 may comprise a fan arranged to provide airflow along the airflow path 14 toward the bubble-forming aperture 22. The fan may be driven by an electric motor housed within the device 10 and may operate continuously while the device 10 is powered. Airflow produced by the fan may be directed along the airflow path 14 by a duct or housing structure which guides the airflow toward the position in which the bubble-forming aperture 22 is located when the rocker member 20 is in the second position. The rocker member 20 may include a spring (not shown) providing the bias toward the first position. The spring may be a torsion spring located at the fixed axis 24 of the rocker member 20, although other spring arrangements such as compression springs or extension springs may alternatively be used. The spring urges the rocker member 20 toward the first position such that the bubble-forming aperture 22 remains immersed in the bubble solution 18 and outside the airflow path 14 when the device 10 is not actuated. Maintaining the rocker member 20 in the first position when the device 10 is not actuated ensures that the aperture 22 remains wetted with bubble solution 18 and prevents airflow along the airflow path 14 from interacting with the aperture 22 during storage or handling. Accordingly, the first position may prevent inadvertent bubble generation during storage or handling, since bubble formation cannot occur unless the rocker member 20 is deliberately moved into the second position. The device 10 may be implemented as a toy, for example a handheld bubble toy intended for entertainment use. In some embodiments the device may be implemented as a handheld bubble pattern generator, for example a toy capable of generating controlled sequences or patterns of bubbles in response to user input or programmed control. According to a further aspect of the invention there is provided a method of generating a bubble pattern. The method comprises moving a rocker member 20 from a first position to a second position while providing airflow along an airflow path 14. In the first position, a bubble-forming aperture 22 supported on the rocker member 20 is immersed in bubble solution 18 and located outside the airflow path 14. Immersion of the aperture 22 in the bubble solution 18 forms a film of bubble solution 18 across the aperture 22. The rocker member 20 is then moved to the second position, in which the aperture 22 is withdrawn from the bubble solution 18 and positioned within the airflow path 14. Airflow provided along the airflow path 14 interacts with the bubble solution film across the aperture 22 such that bubbles are generated when the aperture 22 is positioned within the airflow path 14. When the rocker member 20 returns to the first position the aperture leaves the airflow path 14 and re-enters the bubble solution 18, thereby terminating bubble generation and re-wetting the aperture 22 in preparation for a subsequent bubble-generation cycle. In preferred embodiments airflow may be maintained continuously along the airflow path 14, such that bubble generation is determined solely by whether the aperture 22 is positioned within or outside the airflow path 14. In some embodiments the method further comprises maintaining the rocker member 20 in the second position for a defined period, or dwell time, the duration of which determines the quantity or length of bubble output generated during that actuation interval. The method may therefore comprise repeatedly moving the rocker member 20 5 between the first and second positions in accordance with a predetermined sequence such that bubbles are generated in discrete intervals corresponding to a bubble output pattern. In certain embodiments the sequence of movements of the rocker member 20 may be 10 controlled by a controller 34 so as to generate bubble outputs corresponding to a stored or user-defined pattern. For example, the method may comprise generating bubble outputs corresponding to encoded symbolic information, such as Morse code, in which bubble outputs of 15 different duration correspond to dots and dashes. In this manner the method enables controlled generation of bubble sequences by selectively positioning the bubble-forming aperture 22 relative to the airflow path 14 while airflow is provided along the airflow path 14.

Claims

1. A bubble-generating device comprising:an airflow generator arranged to provide airflow along an airflow path;a reservoir configured to contain bubble solution;at least one bubble-forming aperture supported on at least one rocker member mounted for pivotal movement about a fixed axis;the at least one rocker member being movable between:(i) a first position in which the aperture is immersed in the bubble solution and located outside the airflow path; and(ii) a second position in which the aperture is withdrawn from the bubble solution and positioned within the airflow path;wherein the at least one rocker member is biased toward the first position;and wherein, when in the second position, the aperture is stationary relative to the airflow path such that airflow along the airflow path generates bubbles at or from the aperture, bubble generation thereby being controlled by movement of the at least one rocker member relative to the airflow path.

2. A device according to claim 1, wherein the airflow generator is operable to provide a continuous airflow during movement of the at least one rocker member between the first and second positions.

3. A device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising an actuator configured to move the at least one rocker member between the first and second positions, and a controller configured to operate the actuator in accordance with a predetermined bubble output pattern by controlling a dwell time duration for which the at least one rocker member is maintained in the second position such that bubbles are generated in discrete intervals corresponding to the predetermined bubble output pattern.

4. A device according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a manually operable lever configured to move a rocker member from the first position to the second position.

5. A device according to claim 4, wherein release of the lever permits the rocker member to return to the first position under the bias.

6. A device according to claim 3, wherein the actuator comprises a solenoid.

7. A device according to claim 3, wherein the actuator comprises a motor-drivenlinkage.

8. A device according to any of claims 3 to 7, wherein a first dwell time duration of a rocker member in the second position generates a first quantity of bubbles and a second dwell time duration of a rocker member in the second position generates a second quantity of bubbles.

9. A device according to any of claims 3 to 8, wherein the controller is configured to store a plurality of selectable bubble output patterns.

10. A device according to any of claims 3 to 9, wherein the controller is configured to receive a user input defining a custom bubble output pattern.

11. A device according to any of claims 3 to 10, wherein the predetermined bubble output pattern corresponds to encoded symbolic information.

12. A device according to any of claims 3 to 11, wherein the encoded symbolic information comprises Morse code.

13. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a rocker member supports a plurality of bubble-forming apertures.

14. A device according to any of claims 1 to 12, comprising a first rocker member supporting a first aperture and a second rocker member supporting a second aperture, the first aperture comprising a single opening configured to generate a single bubble and the second aperture comprising a plurality of openings configured to generate a stream of bubbles.

15. A device according to claim 14, further comprising a first user input configured to move the first aperture into the second position and a second user input configured to move the second aperture into the second position.

16. A device according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the first and second apertures are selectively positionable in the airflow path by movement of the respective rocker members.

17. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a rocker member is movable only between the first and second positions.

18. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fixed axis of the rocker member is located above the reservoir.

19. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the airflow generator comprises a fan.

20. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein bubble generation is controlled by positioning of the aperture within or outside the airflow path, without requiring interruption of airflow generation.

21. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the rocker member includes a spring providing the bias toward the first position.

22. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first position prevents inadvertent bubble generation during storage or handling.

23. A device according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a stop configured to define the second position of a rocker member.

24. A toy comprising the bubble-generating device according to any of the preceding claims.

25. A method of generating a bubble pattern using the bubble-generating device according to any of the preceding claims, comprising the steps of:operating the airflow generator to provide airflow along the airflow path; and5 operating the at least one rocker member to move a bubble-formingaperture into the airflow path for a plurality of dwell intervals separated by return movements to the first position, the durations of the dwell intervals defining a bubble output pattern.T +44(0)30 0300 2000A

Images