Toys for infants and toddlers

Abstract

We provide toys for infants and toddlers that can stimulate their curiosity. [Solution] The infant toy 1 is flexible and comprises a top part 2, a plurality of recesses 3 that are recessed downward L from the top part 2, and a frame part 4 that extends downward L from the edge part 2a of the top part 2. The infant toy set 100 comprises the infant toy 1 and an accessory toy 10 that can be inserted into or removed from any of the plurality of recesses 3 for play. The accessory toy 10 has a holding part that, when inserted into any of the plurality of recesses 3, elastically deforms the recess 3 and is held in the recess 3.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to toys for infants and young children.

Background Art

[0002] As toys for infants around 1 year old, toys as described in Patent Document 1 are known. Patent Document 1 describes a toy that rotationally drives a strip material to which decorative parts are rotatably attached.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The toy described in Patent Document 1 can attract the attention of infants and young children by the rotation of the strip material and the decorative parts, but it is not something to be played with by hand, nor is it a combination of multiple toys, so it cannot be said to be something that can arouse the curiosity of infants and young children.

[0005] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a toy for infants and young children that can arouse their curiosity.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] [1] The toy for infants and young children according to the present invention is a toy for infants and young children having flexibility, and includes a top part, a plurality of concave parts that are recessed downward from the top part, and a frame part that extends downward from the edge part of the top part.

[0007] This infant toy features multiple recesses that extend downwards from the top, allowing children to insert and remove toys from any of these recesses. Because the toy is flexible, various toys can be pushed into the recesses, and the elastic deformation of the recesses holds the toys in place. Conversely, toys can be pulled out of the recesses. This stimulates the curiosity of infants. Furthermore, the frame extends downwards from the top edge, enhancing the toy's shape retention. This prevents excessive deformation when infants insert and remove toys from the recesses. As a result, it stimulates the curiosity of infants and allows them to play freely without causing stress.

[0008] [2] In the infant toy described in [1], each of the multiple recesses may extend to the lower end of the infant toy when the infant toy is placed on a flat surface. In this infant toy, since each of the multiple recesses extends to the lower end of the infant toy when it is placed, excessive deformation of the infant toy can be suppressed when the toy is pushed into the recesses. In addition, the infant toy can be placed stably on the surface.

[0009] [3] In the infant toy described in [1] or [2], each of the multiple recesses may curve downward from the top. In this infant toy, each of the multiple recesses curves downward from the top, making it easier for infants to insert the toy into the recesses. It can also provide infants with a sense of visual security, have a superior design, and improve the tactile feel.

[0010] [4] In any of the infant toys described in [1] to [3], each of the multiple recesses has a cylindrical portion extending downward from the top, and the cylindrical portion may become narrower as it goes downward. In this infant toy, each of the multiple recesses has a cylindrical portion extending downward from the top, and the cylindrical portion becomes narrower as it goes downward, so toys of various shapes can be inserted into the recesses and held in place. In addition, when a toy is inserted into a recess, the contact area between the toy and the recess can be reduced, so the toy held in the recess can be easily pulled out of the recess.

[0011] In the infant toy described in [5] [4], the upper end of the cylindrical part may be formed in a cross-section with the four corners of a square rounded and the four sides of the square curved in a convex shape. In this infant toy, since the upper end of the cylindrical part is formed in a cross-section with the four corners of a square rounded and the four sides of the square curved in a convex shape, infants can feel that the degree of insertion into the recess differs depending on the direction in which the toy is inserted. Furthermore, it can be made to have excellent design.

[0012] [6] In any of the infant toys described in [1] to [5], the distance between adjacent recesses in the row or column direction among the multiple recesses may be 10.00 mm or less. In this infant toy, since the distance between adjacent recesses in the row or column direction among the multiple recesses is 10.00 mm or less, it is possible to make the infant toy appear to have many recesses while preventing it from becoming too large. This can further stimulate the curiosity of infants.

[0013] [7] In the infant toy described in any of [1] to [6], the frame portion may extend from the edge of the top portion so as to cover the multiple recesses from all sides. In this infant toy, since the frame portion extends from the edge of the top portion so as to cover the multiple recesses from all sides, the shape retention of the infant toy is further enhanced.

[0014] [8] In the infant toy described in any of [1] to [7], the frame portion may extend to the lower end of the infant toy when the infant toy is placed on a flat surface. In this infant toy, since the frame portion extends to the lower end of the infant toy when it is placed on a surface, the infant toy can be placed stably on the surface and the shape retention of the infant toy is further improved.

[0015] [9] In any of the infant toys described in [1] to [8], the frame may extend downward from the top in a direction that curves away from the multiple recesses, and then extend in a direction that curves towards the multiple recesses. In this infant toy, because the frame extends downward from the top in a direction that curves away from the multiple recesses, and then extends in a direction that curves towards the multiple recesses, it becomes easier for infants to hold the frame. This further stimulates the curiosity of infants. Moreover, even if the frame deforms due to inserting and removing the toy from the recesses, the deformation can be made to look natural. Furthermore, it can provide infants with a sense of visual security, have excellent design, and improve the tactile feel.

[0016]

[10] In any of the infant toys described in [1] to [9], the thickness of the top, the multiple recesses, and the frame may be 3.17 mm or more and 3.2 mm or less. In this infant toy, since the thickness of the top, the multiple recesses, and the frame is 3.17 mm or more, the shape retention of the infant toy can be ensured. On the other hand, since the thickness of the top, the multiple recesses, and the frame is 3.2 mm or less, sufficient flexibility of the infant toy can be ensured, and the weight of the infant toy can be reduced.

[0017]

[11] The infant toy set relating to this disclosure comprises an infant toy described in any of [1] to

[10] and an accessory toy that is inserted into or removed from any of a plurality of recesses, wherein the accessory toy has a retaining part that, when inserted into any of the plurality of recesses, elastically deforms the recess and is held in the recess.

[0018] In this toy set for infants, an accessory toy that plays by being inserted into and removed from any of the plurality of recesses of the above-described toy for infants has a holding portion that elastically deform the recess and is held by the recess when inserted into any of the plurality of recesses. Therefore, by pushing the holding portion of the accessory toy into the recess, the accessory toy can be held in the recess due to the elastic deformation of the recess. On the other hand, by pulling the accessory toy pushed into the recess, the accessory toy can be pulled out of the recess. Therefore, it is possible to arouse the curiosity of infants.

Advantages of the Invention

[0019] According to the present invention, it is possible to arouse the curiosity of infants.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] [Figure 1] It is a front view of the toy set for infants according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a perspective view of the toy for infants shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a plan view of the toy for infants shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] It is a bottom view of the toy for infants shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 5] It is a front view of the toy for infants shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 6] It is a side view of the toy for infants shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 7] It is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 8] It is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 9] It is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 10] It is a cross-sectional view taken along line X-X shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 11] It is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 12] It is a perspective view showing the first accessory toy shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 13] It is a perspective view showing the second accessory toy shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 14] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the third accessory toy. [Figure 15] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the fourth accessory toy. [Figure 16] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the fifth accessory toy. [Figure 17] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the sixth accessory toy. [Figure 18] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the seventh accessory toy. [Figure 19] This is a perspective view illustrating how to play with the infant toy set according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] This is a front view illustrating how to play with the infant toy set according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] This is a perspective view showing variations of toys for infants and toddlers. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0021] The following description of the infant toy according to the embodiment will be given with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numeral, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0022] (Toy set for infants and toddlers) Figure 1 is a front view of an infant toy set according to an embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the infant toy set 100 comprises a flexible infant toy 1 and a plurality of accessory toys 10. The plurality of accessory toys 10 include, for example, a first accessory toy 11, a second accessory toy 12, a third accessory toy 13, a fourth accessory toy 14, a fifth accessory toy 15, a sixth accessory toy 16, and a seventh accessory toy 17. The infant toy set 100 is a toy set in which the infant toy 1 is played with by inserting and removing each of the plurality of accessory toys 10.

[0023] (Toys for infants and toddlers) Figure 2 is a perspective view of the infant toy shown in Figure 1. Figure 3 is a top view of the infant toy shown in Figure 1. Figure 4 is a bottom view of the infant toy shown in Figure 1. Figure 5 is a front view of the infant toy shown in Figure 1. Figure 6 is a side view of the infant toy shown in Figure 1. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII shown in Figure 3. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VIII-VIII shown in Figure 3. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IX-IX shown in Figure 3. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XX shown in Figure 8. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XI-XI shown in Figure 8. As shown in Figures 2 to 11, the infant toy 1 according to this embodiment comprises a top part 2 that forms the top surface 1a of the infant toy 1, a plurality of recesses 3 that are recessed downward L from the top part 2, and a frame part 4 that extends downward L from the edge part 2a of the top part 2. The state in which the infant toy 1 is placed on a flat surface S (see Figures 7 to 9) is referred to as the "placed state."

[0024] The top part 2 is formed in the shape of a plate of a predetermined thickness. The top part 2 is formed such that its top surface 1a is flat when placed on the surface. The phrase "the top surface 1a is flat" includes not only cases where the top surface 1a is perfectly flat, but also cases where the top surface 1a is formed in a wavy shape due to the weight of the top part 2 or manufacturing tolerances, or where the top surface 1a is slightly curved upward or downward L.

[0025] In a plan view, the top section 2 is formed in the shape of a rectangle with rounded corners. In other words, the top surface 1a is formed in the shape of a rectangle with rounded corners. In this embodiment, in a plan view, the top section 2 is formed in the shape of a square with rounded corners. In other words, the top surface 1a is formed in the shape of a square with rounded corners. Here, the directions of adjacent sides of the top surface 1a are referred to as the row direction R and the column direction C, respectively.

[0026] Each of the multiple recesses 3 extends to the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1 when it is placed on the toy. In other words, each of the multiple recesses 3 extends from the top 2 to the mounting surface S and contacts the mounting surface S when it is placed on the toy. When the multiple recesses 3 extend to the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1 when it is placed on the toy, it means, for example, that the multiple recesses 3 are designed to extend to the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1, or that the multiple recesses 3 extend to the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1 when it is placed on the toy due to the weight of the infant toy 1, etc. Therefore, the lowest position 3d of each of the multiple recesses 3 is the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1 when it is placed on the toy. The lowest position 3d is the lowest L position of each of the multiple recesses 3.

[0027] The boundaries between each of the multiple recesses 3 and the top part 2 are not angular, and each of the multiple recesses 3 and the top part 2 are smoothly connected. Furthermore, each of the multiple recesses 3 curves downward L from the top part 2.

[0028] Each of the multiple recesses 3 has a cylindrical portion 3a extending downward L from the top portion 2, and a bottom portion 3b extending from the lower end of the cylindrical portion 3a to form the bottom of the recess 3.

[0029] The cylindrical portion 3a tapers downwards towards L. In other words, the maximum and minimum inner dimensions of the cylindrical portion 3a decrease downwards towards L. The maximum and minimum inner dimensions are the maximum and minimum inner dimensions of each of the multiple recesses 3 in a cross section perpendicular to the vertical direction of the infant toy 1. Note that downwards L is one of the vertical directions of the infant toy 1.

[0030] The upper end portion 3c of the cylindrical portion 3a is formed with a cross-section that has rounded corners and convex curves on all four sides of the square. In other words, the upper end portion 3c of the cylindrical portion 3a is formed with a shape that is a perfect circle stretched in all directions. That is, it is formed with a cross-section that is somewhere between a perfect circle and a square. The opening shapes of each of the multiple recesses 3 are also formed with a cross-section that has rounded corners and convex curves on all four sides of the square, and a cross-section that is somewhere between a perfect circle and a square. The opening shapes of each of the multiple recesses 3 are the opening shapes of each of the multiple recesses 3 in the top portion 2.

[0031] Each of the bottom portions 3b of the multiple recesses 3 is formed in a hemispherical shape. Therefore, the inclination of the cylindrical portion 3a in the cross-section of Figure 9 is greater than the inclination of the cylindrical portion 3a in the cross-section of Figure 7.

[0032] Multiple recesses 3 are arranged in a matrix. This matrix arrangement is also called a grid arrangement. In this embodiment, nine recesses 3 are arranged in a 3x3 grid. That is, three recesses 3 are arranged in the row direction R, and three recesses 3 are arranged in the column direction C, resulting in a total of nine recesses 3 being arranged in a matrix.

[0033] The distance D (see Figure 3) between adjacent recesses 3 in the row direction R or column direction C among the multiple recesses 3 is 10.00 mm or less. In this case, the distance d1 (see Figure 3) between adjacent recesses 3 in the row direction R and the distance d2 (see Figure 3) between adjacent recesses 3 in the column direction C can be the same.

[0034] The frame portion 4 extends from the edge portion 2a of the top portion 2 so as to cover the multiple recesses 3 from the periphery. Covering the multiple recesses 3 from the periphery means not only covering the entire multiple recesses 3 from the periphery, but also covering only the upper part of the multiple recesses 3 from the periphery, etc. In this embodiment, the frame portion 4 extends from the edge portion 2a of the top portion 2 so as to cover the entire multiple recesses 3 from the periphery.

[0035] The frame portion 4 extends to the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1 when it is placed on the toy. In other words, when it is placed on the toy, the frame portion 4 extends from the top portion 2 to the placement surface S and contacts the placement surface S. When the frame portion 4 extends to the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1 when it is placed on the toy, it means, for example, that the frame portion 4 is designed to extend to the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1, or that the frame portion 4 extends to the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1 due to its own weight, etc. Therefore, the lowest position 4a of the frame portion 4, together with the lowest positions 3d of each of the multiple recesses 3, forms the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1 when it is placed on the toy. The lowest position 4a is the lowest position L of the frame portion 4.

[0036] The frame portion 4 extends downward L in a curved manner. The frame portion 4 extends downward L from the top portion 2 in a direction away from the multiple recesses 3, and then extends in a direction approaching the multiple recesses 3. In other words, the frame portion 4 extends downward L from the top portion 2 in a direction away from the multiple recesses 3, and then extends in a direction approaching the multiple recesses 3, while curving. The upper part 4b of the frame portion 4 extends downward L from the top portion 2 in a direction away from the multiple recesses 3. The lower part 4c of the frame portion 4 extends downward L from the upper part 4b in a direction approaching the multiple recesses 3. The lower end portion 4d of the frame portion 4 is oriented toward the multiple recesses 3.

[0037] The infant toy 1 constructed in this manner is made of elastomer. As the elastomer forming the infant toy 1, for example, thermoplastic elastomers such as TPE, silicone, etc. can be used.

[0038] From the viewpoint of ensuring the shape retention of the infant toy 1, the thickness T (see Figure 9) of the top part 2, the multiple recesses 3, and the frame part 4 can be, for example, 3.17 mm or more. On the other hand, from the viewpoint of ensuring sufficient flexibility of the infant toy 1 and reducing its weight, the thickness T of the top part 2, the multiple recesses 3, and the frame part 4 can be, for example, 3.2 mm or less. From these viewpoints, the thickness T of the top part 2, the multiple recesses 3, and the frame part 4 can be, for example, 3.17 mm or more and 3.2 mm or less.

[0039] (Included toy) Figure 12 is a perspective view showing the first accessory toy shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 12, the first accessory toy 11 is a toy in the form of a container with a lid. The first accessory toy 11 comprises a container part 11a and a lid part 11b.

[0040] The container portion 11a is a cylindrical part. The container portion 11a has an outer dimension larger than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a, and therefore functions as a retaining portion that elastically deforms the recess 3 and holds it in the recess 3 when inserted into one of the multiple recesses 3. The retaining portion has an outer dimension larger than the minimum inner dimension of each of the cylindrical portions 3a of the multiple recesses 3, and therefore, when inserted into one of the multiple recesses 3, it is able to elastically deform the recess 3 and hold it in the recess 3.

[0041] The lid portion 11b is a part that can be detachably attached to the container portion 11a. The lid portion 11b is formed in the shape of a thin plate with rounded corners. The lid portion 11b has a slit-shaped through hole 11c that allows objects to be placed into the container portion 11a through the lid portion 11b.

[0042] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the second accessory toy shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 13, the second accessory toy 12 is a toy that infants and toddlers can grasp and play with. The second accessory toy 12 comprises a grip portion 12a, a first grip end portion 12b, and a second grip end portion 12c.

[0043] The grip portion 12a is the part that infants and toddlers grasp. The grip portion 12a is formed in a cylindrical shape, and from the viewpoint of making it easy for infants and toddlers to grasp, the outer diameter of the grip portion 12a can be, for example, 32 mm or more and 34 mm or less.

[0044] The first grip end portion 12b is attached to one end of the grip portion 12a. The first grip end portion 12b is formed in a disc shape with a larger diameter than the grip portion 12a. Two protrusions 12d are attached to the first grip end portion 12b, each having a hole for an infant to insert their finger. Furthermore, the first grip end portion 12b has an outer dimension larger than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a, and when inserted into one of the multiple recesses 3, it functions as a retaining portion that elastically deforms the recess 3 and holds it in the recess 3.

[0045] The second grip end portion 12c is attached to the other end of the grip portion 12a. The second grip end portion 12c is formed in a disc shape with a larger diameter than the grip portion 12a. A knob portion 12e is attached to the second grip end portion 12c that is rotatable relative to the second grip end portion 12c. The second grip end portion 12c is designed so that a click sound (a rattling sound) is generated when the knob portion 12e is rotated relative to the second grip end portion 12c by a click mechanism or the like. Furthermore, the second grip end portion 12c has an outer dimension larger than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a, and when inserted into one of the multiple recesses 3, it functions as a retaining portion that elastically deforms the recess 3 and holds it in the recess 3.

[0046] Figure 14 is a perspective view showing the third accessory toy shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 14, the third accessory toy 13 is a brush toy. The third accessory toy 13 is made of a flexible elastomer such as silicone. The third accessory toy 13 comprises a base portion 13a and a plurality of protrusions 13b.

[0047] The base portion 13a is a part in which two circular bases of different outer diameters are superimposed. Furthermore, the base portion 13a has an outer dimension larger than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a, and when inserted into one of the multiple recesses 3, it functions as a retaining part that elastically deforms the recess 3 and holds it in the recess 3.

[0048] Each of the multiple protrusions 13b is formed in an elongated cylindrical (rod-like) shape. Each of the multiple protrusions 13b is erected on the base portion 13a and is configured to flex relative to the base portion 13a when touched or pressed against something.

[0049] Figure 15 is a perspective view showing the fourth accessory toy shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 15, the fourth accessory toy 14 is a tube toy. The fourth accessory toy 14 comprises a base portion 14a and a tube portion 14b.

[0050] The base portion 14a is a rectangular parallelepiped. The base portion 14a has an outer dimension larger than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a, and when inserted into one of the multiple recesses 3, it functions as a retaining portion that elastically deforms the recess 3 and holds it in place in the recess 3.

[0051] The tube portion 14b is formed from a flexible elastomer such as silicone. The tube portion 14b is formed in a hollow tube shape and is erected on the base portion 14a. The tube portion 14b has an outer dimension larger than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a, and when inserted into one of the multiple recesses 3, it functions as a retaining part that elastically deforms the recess 3 and holds it in the recess 3.

[0052] Figure 16 is a perspective view showing the fifth accessory toy shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 16, the fifth accessory toy 15 is a ball toy. The fifth accessory toy 15 has a spherical part 15a.

[0053] The spherical portion 15a is formed in a spherical shape and has two holes 15b for inserting an infant's finger. Furthermore, the spherical portion 15a has an outer dimension larger than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a, and when inserted into one of the multiple recesses 3, it functions as a retaining portion that elastically deforms the recess 3 and holds it in the recess 3.

[0054] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing the sixth accessory toy shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 17, the sixth accessory toy 16 is a can toy. The sixth accessory toy 16 comprises a container part 16a and a lid part 16b.

[0055] The container portion 16a is a thin cylindrical part formed from a metal such as steel. The container portion 16a has an outer dimension smaller than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a, so that it can be inserted into any of the multiple recesses 3.

[0056] The lid portion 16b is a part that is irremovably attached to the container portion 16a by eyelets or the like. The lid portion 16b is formed in the shape of a thin plate with the four corners of a square rounded and the four sides of the square curved in a convex shape. The lid portion 16b has projections 16c formed on it for gripping the lid portion 16b or for inserting it into the through hole 11c of the lid portion 11b of the first attached toy 11. Furthermore, the lid portion 16b has an outer dimension that is larger than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a, and when inserted into one of the multiple recesses 3, it functions as a retaining part that elastically deforms the recess 3 and holds it in the recess 3.

[0057] Figure 18 is a perspective view showing the seventh accessory toy shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 18, the seventh accessory toy 17 is an egg toy. The seventh accessory toy 17 has an elliptical section 17a.

[0058] The elliptical portion 17a is formed in an egg shape. A weight (not shown) is attached to the blunt end 17b of the elliptical portion 17a, and the pointed end 17c is configured to stand up relative to the blunt end 17b. The seventh accessory toy 17 has an outer dimension larger than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a, and when inserted into one of the multiple recesses 3, it functions as a retaining part that elastically deforms the recess 3 and holds it in the recess 3.

[0059] (How to play with the infant toy set) Figure 19 is a perspective view illustrating how to play with the infant toy set according to this embodiment. Figure 20 is a front view illustrating how to play with the infant toy set according to this embodiment. As shown in Figures 19 and 20, the infant toy set 100 according to this embodiment is played with by inserting and removing each of the multiple accessory toys 10 into each of the multiple recesses 3 of the infant toy 1.

[0060] Figures 19 and 20 show the state in which the second accessory toy 12, the third accessory toy 13, and the fourth accessory toy 14 are inserted into and removed from the three recesses of the infant toy 1. In this state, the first grip end portion 12b (see Figure 13) of the second accessory toy 12, which functions as a holder, is inserted into recess 3, and the second accessory toy 12 is held in recess 3. Similarly, the base portion 13a (see Figure 14) of the third accessory toy 13, which functions as a holder, is inserted into another recess 3, and the third accessory toy 13 is held in recess 3. Furthermore, the base portion 14a (see Figure 15) of the fourth accessory toy 14, which functions as a holder, is inserted into another recess 3, and the fourth accessory toy 14 is held in the recess. Each accessory toy is held in recess 3 by the elastic deformation of the recess 3 and can be pulled out of recess 3 by being pulled.

[0061] As described above, the infant toy 1 according to this embodiment has multiple recesses 3 that are recessed downward from the top 2, so that the attached toys 10 can be inserted into and removed from any of the multiple recesses 3 for play. Furthermore, since the infant toy 1 is flexible, by pushing various attached toys 10 into the recesses 3, the attached toys 10 can be held in the recesses 3 by the elastic deformation of the recesses 3. On the other hand, by pulling the attached toys 10 that have been pushed into the recesses 3, the attached toys 10 can be pulled out from the recesses 3. This stimulates the curiosity of infants. Moreover, since the frame portion 4 extends downward L from the edge portion 2a of the top 2, the shape retention of the infant toy 1 is enhanced, so that the infant toy 1 does not deform too much when infants insert and remove various attached toys 10 into and from the recesses 3. This stimulates the curiosity of infants and allows them to play to their heart's content without causing them stress.

[0062] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, each of the multiple recesses 3 extends to the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1 when it is placed on a surface. This prevents the infant toy 1 from deforming excessively when the attached toy 10 is pressed into the recesses 3. In addition, the infant toy 1 can be stably placed on the mounting surface S.

[0063] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, each of the multiple recesses 3 curves downward L from the top 2, making it easier for infants to insert the attached toy 10 into the recesses 3. In addition, it can provide infants with a sense of visual security, has a superior design, and improves the tactile feel.

[0064] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, each of the multiple recesses 3 has a cylindrical portion 3a extending downward L from the top 2, and the cylindrical portion 3a becomes narrower as it extends downward L, so that various shapes of accessory toys 10 can be inserted into and held in the recesses 3. In addition, when the accessory toy 10 is inserted into the recess 3, the contact area between the accessory toy 10 and the recess 3 can be reduced, so that the accessory toy 10 held in the recess 3 can be easily pulled out of the recess 3.

[0065] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, the upper end 3c of the cylindrical part 3a is formed with a cross-section that has rounded corners and curved sides of a square in a convex shape, allowing infants to feel that the degree of insertion into the recess 3 differs depending on the direction in which the attached toy 10 is inserted. In addition, it can be made to have a superior design.

[0066] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, each of the multiple recesses 3 has a hemispherical base 3b, which improves the tactile feel of each of the multiple recesses 3 when the infant toy 1 is turned upside down for play. In addition, the infant toy 1 can be made aesthetically pleasing even when turned upside down.

[0067] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, multiple recesses 3 are arranged in a matrix, making it easier for infants to insert the attached toy 10 into the recesses 3. It also provides infants with a sense of visual security and allows for a design that is aesthetically pleasing.

[0068] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, multiple recesses 3 are arranged in a 3x3 grid, which helps to prevent the infant toy 1 from becoming too large while still providing infants with ample enjoyment in selecting which recesses 3 to insert the attached toy 10 into.

[0069] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, the distance D between adjacent recesses 3 in the row direction R or column direction C is 10.00 mm or less. This prevents the infant toy 1 from becoming too large, while still making it appear to infants that there are many recesses 3. This further stimulates the infant's curiosity.

[0070] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, the frame portion 4 extends from the edge portion 2a of the top portion 2 so as to cover the multiple recesses 3 from all sides, which further enhances the shape retention of the infant toy 1.

[0071] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, the frame portion 4 extends to the lower end 1b of the infant toy 1 when it is placed on the surface, allowing the infant toy 1 to be stably placed on the surface S, and further improving the shape retention of the infant toy 1.

[0072] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, since the frame 4 extends downward L while curving, even if the frame 4 deforms when the attached toy 10 is inserted into or removed from the recess 3, the deformation can be made natural. In addition, it can provide infants with a sense of visual security, have excellent design, and improve the tactile feel.

[0073] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, the frame 4 curves and extends downward L from the top 2, away from the multiple recesses 3, and then curves and extends closer to the multiple recesses 3, making it easier for infants to hold the frame 4. This further stimulates the curiosity of infants. Moreover, even if the frame 4 deforms due to the insertion and removal of the attached toy 10 from the recesses 3, the deformation can be made to look natural. In addition, it can provide infants with a sense of visual security, have excellent design, and improve the tactile feel.

[0074] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, the lower end 4d of the frame 4 is oriented toward the multiple recesses 3, making it easier for infants to hook their fingers onto the lower end 4d of the frame 4. This makes it easier for infants to hold the frame 4, further stimulating their curiosity.

[0075] Furthermore, since this infant toy 1 is made of elastomer, it can be made to have sufficient flexibility.

[0076] Furthermore, in this infant toy 1, the thickness T of the top part 2, the multiple recesses 3, and the frame part 4 is 3.17 mm or more, thus ensuring that the shape retention of the infant toy 1 can be ensured. On the other hand, since the thickness T of the top part 2, the multiple recesses 3, and the frame part 4 is 3.2 mm or less, sufficient flexibility of the infant toy 1 can be ensured, and the weight of the infant toy 1 can be reduced.

[0077] In the infant toy set 100 according to this embodiment, the accessory toy 10, which is played with by inserting and removing it from any of the multiple recesses 3 of the infant toy 1 described above, has a holding part that elastically deforms the recess 3 when inserted into any of the multiple recesses 3 to hold it in place. Therefore, by pushing the holding part of the accessory toy 10 into the recess 3, the accessory toy 10 can be held in the recess 3 by the elastic deformation of the recess 3. On the other hand, by pulling the accessory toy 10 that has been pushed into the recess 3, the accessory toy 10 can be pulled out of the recess 3. This can stimulate the curiosity of infants.

[0078] Furthermore, in this infant toy set 100, each of the multiple recesses 3 of the infant toy 1 has a cylindrical portion 3a extending downward L from the top portion 2, and the holding portion of the attached toy 10 has an outer dimension larger than the minimum inner dimension of the cylindrical portion 3a. Therefore, by pushing the attached toy 10 into the recess 3, the attached toy 10 can be held in the recess 3 by the elastic deformation of the recess 3.

[0079] Furthermore, in this infant toy set 100, the outer diameter of the cylindrical grip portion 12a of the second accessory toy 12 is between 32 mm and 34 mm, so infants can easily grasp the grip portion 12a. Moreover, since there are holding parts at both ends of the grip portion 12a, infants can grasp the grip portion 12a and insert or remove one of the holding parts into the recess 3 of the infant toy 1.

[0080] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above.

[0081] For example, in the above embodiment, the multiple recesses were described as being arranged in a 3x3 matrix, but the multiple recesses may be arranged in any configuration. For example, as in the modified infant toy 1A shown in Figure 21, the multiple recesses 3 may be arranged in a 4x4 matrix.

[0082] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the frame portion was described as being curved and extending downward so as to contact the mounting surface when placed on it. However, the frame portion does not have to be curved, does not have to extend downward, and may be formed so as not to contact the mounting surface when placed on it. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 1...Infant toy, 1a...Top surface, 1A...Infant toy, 2...Top part, 2a...Edge, 3...Recess, 3a...Cylinder part, 3b...Bottom part, 3c...Upper end, 3d...Lowest position, 4...Frame part, 4a...Lowest position, 4b...Upper part, 4c...Lower part, 4d...Lower end, 10...Attached toy, 11...First attached toy, 11a...Container part (holding part), 11b...Lid part (holding part), 11c...Through hole, 12...Second attached toy, 12a...Grip part, 12b...First grip end part (holding part), 12c...Second grip end part (holding part), 12d...Protrusion, 12e...Pinch part, 13...Third Attached toy, 13a... Base part (holding part), 13b... Projection part, 14... Fourth attached toy, 14a... Pedestal part (holding part), 14b... Tube part (holding part), 15... Fifth attached toy, 15a... Spherical part (holding part), 15b... Hole, 16... Sixth attached toy, 16a... Container part (holding part) , 16b...lid part (holding part), 16c...protrusion, 17...seventh attached toy, 17a...elliptical part (holding part), 17b...end part, 17c...end part, 100...toy set for infants, S...placement surface, R...row direction, C...column direction, L...downward, D...distance, d1...distance, d2...distance, T...thickness.

Claims

1. A flexible toy for infants and toddlers, The Heavenly Realm and, Multiple recesses that are recessed downward from the top part, It comprises a frame portion extending downward from the edge of the top portion, Toys for infants and toddlers.

2. Each of the aforementioned plurality of recesses extends to the lower end of the infant toy when the infant toy is placed on a flat surface. The infant toy described in claim 1.

3. Each of the aforementioned plurality of recesses is recessed downwards from the top portion, The infant toy described in claim 1.

4. Each of the aforementioned plurality of recesses has a cylindrical portion extending downward from the top portion, The cylindrical portion becomes narrower as it goes downwards. The infant toy described in claim 1.

5. The upper end of the cylindrical portion is formed with a cross-section that has rounded corners and curved sides of a square in a convex shape. The infant toy according to claim 4.

6. The distance between adjacent recesses in the row or column direction among the aforementioned plurality of recesses is 10.00 mm or less. The infant toy described in claim 1.

7. The frame portion extends from the edge portion of the top portion so as to cover the plurality of recesses from the surroundings. The infant toy described in claim 1.

8. The frame portion extends to the lower end of the infant toy when the infant toy is placed on a flat surface. The infant toy described in claim 1.

9. The frame portion extends downward from the top portion in a curved direction away from the plurality of recesses, and then extends in a curved direction approaching the plurality of recesses. The infant toy described in claim 1.

10. The thickness of the top portion, the plurality of recesses, and the frame portion is 3.17 mm or more and 3.2 mm or less. The infant toy described in claim 1.

11. An infant toy according to any one of claims 1 to 10, It comprises an accessory toy that can be inserted into or removed from any of the aforementioned multiple recesses, The aforementioned toy has a retaining portion that, when inserted into any of the plurality of recesses, elastically deforms the recess and holds it in place within the recess. A toy set for infants and toddlers.

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