REUSABLE TOY CAPSULE APPARATUS INCLUDING WATER PLAY METHODS
Patent Information
- Application Number
- MX2022015929
- Authority / Receiving Office
- MX · MX
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2020-06-16
- Filing Date
- 2022-12-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-19
- Estimated Expiration
- 2041-06-15
Smart Images

Figure MX433967B0
Abstract
Description
1. FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to toys and, more particularly, to mechanical toy apparatus including refillable water play toy structures in connection with reusable toy water capsules, capsule toys and the like, which are considered to operate according to a two-part refillable water balloon function that bursts or explodes apart, in the manner of a balloon popping effect. 2. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION There are many well-known toys and toy sets that incorporate water toy sets, which can be categorized as single-use water balloons, reusable splash toys, and reusable squirt toys. Currently, the water balloon market is divided between single-use water balloons and reusable splash toys. The problem is that children make a huge mess throwing single-use plastic water balloons, and worse, other reusable water balloons are simply disappointing, as they can't pop like balloons and fail as a real alternative to popping balloons. Single-use water balloons, or reusable splash toys, are known to be available that can carry a sufficient mass of water when thrown at a target to soak it. However, single-use water balloons, such as those used in U.S. Patent No. 9,315,282 to Malone for “System and Method for Filling Containers with Fluids,” create substantial amounts of waste when they hit a target and burst. This is a real problem in today's busy, environmentally conscious world. There have been some attempts to create reusable toy capsules that are intended to have an explosive splash, spraying a target when thrown. Some of these inventions burst on impact, while others release water through some type of valve at the moment of impact. China Utility Model CN 201543247 U, dated August 11, 2010, by Myers et al., for a Game Device, includes a top and bottom that can be closed to form a hollow ball. The top and bottom are hemispherical. Both the top and bottom are provided with hemispherical cavities to hold water when in use. To increase the strength of the game device, reinforcing ribs are provided on the outer surfaces of the top and bottom, respectively.Korean utility model application KR 20000018398 U of March 18, 1999 for Lee, et al., for Playing Ball, describes the division of a ball into many divisions with perforated grooves formed in the body of the ball with many segmented pieces connected vertically with perforated grooves that are formed uniformly over the body of an elastic ball, wherein the support pieces formed within the segmented pieces come into contact with the outer surface. Similarly, U.S. Patent No. 4,212,460 to Kraft for “Hollow Water-Filled Game Toy” refers to reusable capsules that break on impact, but require different parts made of hard plastic material for the device's mechanics to function. The Kraft capsule has small overlapping joints that limit the design to a single hard plastic. Consequently, the toy's safe use is compromised, and it can cause injury upon impact with a person. U.S. Patent No. 5,975,983 to Panec for “Reusable Water-Containing Toy” also refers to reusable capsules, but employs mechanical valves that operate by removing the energy required from an impact with an object to open the valves. As such, the prior art limits the size of the splash and, consequently, reduces convenience and proves disappointing in use. Furthermore, U.S. Patent No.5,848,946 to Stillinger for “Filled, deformable bladder amusement device with infinitely changeable pliability and tactility characteristics” issued on December 15, 1998; U.S. Patent No. 6,527,616 to Li for “Throwing toy for producing splash effect” issued on March 4, 2003; U.S. Patent No. 6,533,637 to Liao for “Impact expanding projectile device and its associated method of manufacture” issued on March 18, 2003; U.S. Patent No. 6,585,555 to Wong, et al., for “Temperature sensitive color changing water toy” issued on July 1, 2003; U.S. Patent No. US Patent Application No. 7,481,727 for Chia for “Water-release toy” issued on January 27, 2009; US Patent Application No. 20110003655 Al for Chernick, et al., for “Segmented High-Bounce Toy Water Ball”, published on January 6, 2011, disclose similar prior art water ball concepts. Significantly, known water toys do not include reusable water capsule toys, or capsule toys that function like refillable water balloons with a simple two-part suction mechanism. These capsule toys feature unique structures that are easy for anyone to fill and launch, providing excitement for the user. Furthermore, known single-use water balloons create litter, and known reusable water splash toy capsules, intended to have an explosive effect, often disappoint. A reusable water capsule toy solution would be beneficial to address the problem of reusable and explosive water balloons. The novel reusable water capsule toy explodes to produce an effect equivalent to a balloon bursting. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The embodiments of the inventions described herein provide a sealed, hollow capsule assembled from two interlocking, complementary sealing components. The interlocking seal of the two components is identical. The components can be repeatedly joined by their interlocking structure, creating a seal when the capsule is filled with water. Several embodiments of the invention are described, including a reusable toy capsule apparatus with a pair, or a plurality of multiple flexible components having first and second walls with respective outer and inner wall surfaces.In one embodiment described, each of the two capsule walls is integrally formed with the outer surface of the first wall, which has a curved, hemispherical surface, and the outer surface of the second wall, which has a curved, quarter-sphere surface. The second wall, integrally formed with the first wall, has a curved, three-quarter-sphere surface, defining a fluid-retaining interior and a fluid seal or flange formed with flexible components. The coupling flange allows it to be placed against the inner surface portion of the first wall. One embodiment of the invention has the general form of a water toy capsule with a design intended for popping water balloons and the like. Another embodiment has the form of a handheld directional water jet for competing with water gun toys. Others RZRC ίη / ZZΖΠZ / E / YΙΛΙ modes may include a number of supplied components that have two or more to be assembled. Supplying a quantity of components where any component fits with any other enhances the game and provides an experience similar to having several water balloon-like structures. In brief, several described embodiments of the invention provide a plurality of flexible components of various shapes, each comprising an outer surface of the first wall and an inner surface, and a second wall comprising an outer surface of the second wall and an inner surface of the second wall. The second wall is structurally integral with the first wall, and a portion of each outer surface of the second wall includes a fluid seal, which may be provided as a mating tab formed to engage with a portion of the inner surface of the first wall. By forming a fluid seal between the plurality of flexible components of various shapes, a fluid-retaining interior is defined where the fluid is received between the first and second walls.The fluid retention space between the plurality of flexible components and the first and second outer walls is brought into apposition during use to allow sufficient partial vacuum to achieve a relatively lower internal pressure within the fluid retention space. This creates a suction force that moves the fluid within the fluid retention space into the plurality of flexible components. The fluid seal with the plurality of flexible components may be provided as a mating flange formed from a portion of each outer surface of the second wall, which is brought into apposition with a portion of each inner surface of the first wall of the plurality of flexible components.The fluid in the reusable toy capsule inside the fluid retention can be structurally maintained through the mechanical structural integrity of the flexible components, which can be assisted due to the hydrostatic pressure of the fluid pushing against the walls to generate surface tension inside the fluid retention within the plurality of flexible components. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES In order to facilitate the understanding of the inventions, the accompanying figures and descriptions illustrate the described embodiments thereof, from which the inventions, structure, construction and operation, and many related advantages, can be easily understood and appreciated. Figure 1 is a first perspective view of a complementary sealing capsule component to be assembled according to the invention. Figure 2 is a second perspective view with hidden lines of a complementary sealing capsule component for assembly according to the invention. Figures 3 to 8 are views of the complementary sealing capsule pairs of two identical interlocking components according to the invention. Figures 9 to 12 are component pair views of two identical interlocking engagement components to be assembled with the complementary flexible sealing capsule component pairs according to the invention. Figure 13 is a side perspective view of the assembled capsule submerged in water to fill the capsule with water. Figure 14 is a top perspective view of an assembled capsule being submerged under water flowing from a tap to fill it with water. Figure 15 is a side perspective view of an assembled capsule that is launched against a target, explodes, and bursts according to the invention. Figure 16 is a top perspective view of an assembled capsule that is squeezed to create a directional water jet gun according to the invention. Figure 17 illustrates an additional design option with exterior dimples on the complementary outer surface of the capsule as a ridge textured surface pattern. Figure 18 is an exterior view of the capsule surface with a dimpled surface pattern. Complementary exterior surface of the capsule according to the invention. Figure 19 Cross-section of external and internal sealing surfaces with a surface pattern. Complementary outer surface of the capsule according to the invention. Figures 20, 21 and 22 illustrate a further design of the toroidal capsule components, such as a toroidal capsule assembled in a donut ring shape and the like, according to the invention. Figures 23, 24, and 25 illustrate the additional design of the capsule components, which are oval, rounded, and have a slightly elongated outline. An assembled capsule with an oval, rounded, and similar shape, according to the invention. Figures 26, 27 and 28 illustrate the additional design form of a capsule or sphero-cylinder and the like, according to the invention. Figures 29, 30, 31 and 32 illustrate the additional design shape of an elongated capsule or sphero5 RZRC ίη / ZZΖΠZ / E / YΙΛΙ cylindrical, whose design incorporates two identical terminal capsules that are placed in the middle inner cylinder. An assembled sphero-cylindrical capsule and the like, according to the invention. Figures 33 and 34 illustrate a submersible mesh bag and assembled capsules to be submerged in water to fill each capsule according to the described embodiments. Figure 35 shows a fluid-filled bucket in cross-section for filling the assembled capsules to be submerged according to the described methods. Figure 36 illustrates a fluid-filled bucket and a submersible mesh bag containing assembled empty capsules that are lowered into the bucket according to the described modalities. Figure 37 illustrates the submersible mesh bag with capsules assembled in a fluid-filled bucket and a submersible mesh bag showing the capsules under compression pressure, which expel the air from the assembled capsules that are submerged in the water, to fill each capsule according to the described modalities. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE MODALITIES As described herein, the refillable water toy, relating to reusable water capsules, capsule toys, and the like, is intended to operate according to a two-part refillable water balloon feature, bursting or exploding apart in a manner similar to a balloon popping effect when thrown at a target. The combination of a unique design with the typically chosen softness of the material used to manufacture the capsule means that much of the kinetic energy in a throw is dissipated in a burst of water. With reference to Figures 1 and 2, this is a side perspective view of a single capsule component of a pair of complementary flexible components 10, in the form of a three-quarter sphere, where the flexible component has a first wall 12 having an outer first wall surface and an inner first wall surface. A second wall 14 has an outer second wall surface or main coupling flange, with the second wall 14 integrally formed together with the first wall 12, defining a fluid-retaining interior for receiving fluid between the first wall 12 and the inner sealing capsule surfaces of said second wall 14. Each of the first and second walls includes an outer and an inner surface.The coupling tab of the second wall 14 facilitates a primary fluid seal formed between the pair of flexible components when they are brought together as explained below in Figures 3 to 8 where the complementary sealing capsule flexible components 6. RZRC ίη / ZZΖΠZ / E / YΙΛΙ are pairs of two identical interlocking sealing components 10 according to the invention. In the present description, a portion of each outer surface of the second wall is placed in apposition with a portion of each inner surface of the first wall of the pair of flexible components. The primary sealing edge 16 and an internal secondary sealing edge 18 may be provided with additional thicknesses to maintain the seal and may include a sharp, right-angle structure, or the component shapes may be manufactured in any other way to fit the additional components. Figure 2 is a side perspective view with hidden lines of the capsule component to be assembled with an optional support rib 20 additional to the seal, an optional seal support rib 24, and an optional internal support rib 22 to the capsule surface. The ribs reduce the amount of material in the walls of the capsule components. Figures 3 to 8 illustrate the complementary sealing of pairs of flexible components of two identical interlocking sealing components 10, where Figure 3 is a front view of a capsule component 10 defining a fluid-retaining interior to receive fluid from the capsule 10. Figure 4 is a rear view of the capsule 10 and Figure 5 is a left side view of the complementary capsule components 10, and Figures 5 and 6 are elevation views of the respective right and left sides of the complementary flexible components 10. Figures 7 and 8 are top and bottom plan views of the capsule components 10.Figure 9 is a side perspective view of a capsule component to be assembled according to the complementary capsule component 10a, and Figure 10 is a side perspective view of a capsule component 10b to be assembled according to the complementary capsule component modalities. The present described modality provides a capsule 10 made of two identical components where the capsule shape is topologically equivalent to the surface of a sphere. As illustrated by Figures 11 and 12, the refillable water toy capsule component 10 provides easy assembly. While the present described modality is in the form of a spherical capsule, either of the two complementary sealed capsules 10a and 10b can be held and aligned, by reflecting each other, and pushed together to create the complete sealed capsule of Figure 12.As discussed, two sealing surfaces or coupling tabs 14, the edges 16 and 18 of two components together form a sealed capsule. Figure 13 is a side perspective view of an assembled capsule being submerged in water to fill it. The assembled capsule is compressed with pressure p to remove the air. Another capsule is shown with arrows a to indicate how the capsule should be assembled. A liquid such as water 28 is shown inside a water bucket 30, container, or receptacle made of waterproof fabric 30. A user's hand 48 and the capsule apparatus 10 are shown in a cut-out net bag 44 where air bubbles 46 are expelled. The sealing mechanism of the refillable water toy structures, using a soft rubber, holds together a two-part suction coupling mechanism of the two quarter-spheres, which act similarly to a vacuum, with the air being partially displaced by the water inside.The identical, interconnected components have a seal / coupling that allows them to lock together; the sphere remains whole when empty. When submerged, squeezing it can open the locked sealing couplings with a retractable gap that draws water in. After 3-4 of these squeezes underwater, the capsule fills, the air is expelled, and the seal / coupling together retain the water. The water is trapped in the assembled capsule before it is removed from the water. Figure 14 is a side perspective view of an assembled capsule being submerged under flowing tap water to be filled. Here, the water retained in the capsule passes between the complementary inner surface, the adjacent surface and edges 16, and the two holes 26 to escape entrapment.The capsule can be held underwater and the air expelled by pressing and crushing the entire capsule by hand. When the pressure is released, water is drawn past the broken seal, displacing the air. The suction force of the water and the retraction of the shape reshape the sphere as the water slides inwards and hydrostatic pressure pushes outwards, maintaining the water's thrust against the object's walls or generating surface tension. Even when less than full, the capsule's seals function as intended, holding the complementary capsule components together. The user has the option of either launching the capsule at a target in Figure 15 or squeezing the capsule to direct a jet of water at a target in Figure 16. The capsule or water jet can be launched like a water toy capsule or squeezed to expel a jet of water that can be used repeatedly by using a hollow capsule assembled from a series of complementary sealing components that interlock. The components are joined using an interlocking structure, creating a seal when the capsule is filled with water. After use and disassembly, the components can be collected and reassembled to form a capsule again. When launched, the filled capsule in Figure 15 will burst with RZRC Ln / Zznz / E / YIAI splashes, like a water-filled balloon. When using a water toy capsule 10 as the water gun in Figure 16, one hole should be placed in the palm of the hand to prevent accidental opening, and the second hole should be directed toward a target. When squeezed, water will spurt from the capsule apparatus 10 through the unlocked hole 26, producing an effect similar to that of water squirt guns. These remain stable in flight; as soon as the capsule impacts a relatively stationary surface, the seal or coupling separates, causing the capsule to break into its components and the water to burst. When the structured capsule of the refillable water toy strikes a target, the surface tension of the water inside explodes with the energy of a balloon bursting. As disclosed, the described embodiments provide a plurality of flexible components of various shapes, each comprising a first wall with a first outer surface and a first inner surface, and a second wall with a second outer surface and a second inner surface. The second wall is integrally structured with the first wall, and a portion of each outer surface of the second wall includes a fluid seal, which may be provided as a mating flange formed to engage with a portion of the inner surface of the first wall. By forming a fluid seal between the plurality of flexible components of various shapes, a fluid-retaining interior is defined where the fluid is received between the first and second walls. The fluid retention space between the plurality of flexible components and the first and second outer walls is brought into apposition during use to allow sufficient partial vacuum to achieve a relatively lower internal pressure within the fluid retention space. This creates a suction force that moves the fluid within the fluid retention space into the plurality of flexible components. The fluid seal with the plurality of flexible components may be provided as a mating flange formed from a portion of each outer surface of the second wall, which is brought into apposition with a portion of each inner surface of the first wall of the plurality of flexible components.The reusable toy capsule containing fluid can be structurally maintained through the mechanical integrity of its flexible components. This integrity can be further enhanced by the hydrostatic pressure of the fluid pushing against the walls, generating surface tension within the fluid-filled capsule. The seal is sufficient to create a partial vacuum that holds the capsule together. Capsule 9. The RZRC can be launched or propelled from, for example, a toy gun and will only burst on impact, releasing the water inside. Its soft construction means that a substantial amount of the kinetic energy of a launch is released in a splash, rivaling the launch of a full water balloon without the drawback of the litter that water balloons generate, which must be collected, recycled, or disposed of. Filling is achieved through the suction force created relative to the pressure differential to reach a lower internal pressure. This suction force draws water into the sphere through a partial vacuum, which is sufficient to generate a relatively lower internal pressure within the sphere. This lower pressure creates a suction force that moves the water into the capsule. (Filling is based on the pressure differential, resulting in a lower internal pressure that, through a suction force, moves the water into the capsule.) This suction force is sufficient for the capsule to contain a fluid. The partial vacuum refers to the fact that the partial vacuum is sufficient for the relatively lower internal pressure within the capsule to create a suction force that draws the water into the capsule.(Filling is related to the pressure differential, where a lower internal pressure creates a suction force that draws water into the capsule.) Separately, regarding fluid retention after the capsule is filled, it appears to be the hydrostatic pressure of the water pushing outwards, that is, pushing against the walls and generating surface tension. Suction is the force exerted by a partial vacuum on a solid, liquid, or gas. Removing air from a space results in this pressure differential. Therefore, the suction pressure is limited by the external air pressure. The pressure differential of the surrounding environment (water), being relatively higher than the lower internal pressure where the air is removed, results in the water in the higher-pressure environment exerting a force relative to the lower internal pressure of the capsule.With the capsule submerged and compressed, air is squeezed out and water enters because it seeks to fill a void, not necessarily due to a vacuum. Once the wall recovery begins, it is believed that the water can accelerate filling due to the expansion of the walls and the attraction of the water (suction). The toy capsule can be filled with water in several ways, including: (1) To fill the toy capsule with water, the interlocking sealing components are first joined to create a capsule. The capsule can then be compressed underwater to purge the contained air. This deforms the capsule and breaks the seal, allowing water to enter. Then, upon release from compression, the capsule returns to its original sealed shape; (2) The capsule can also be filled by deforming it and holding it under an open tap, by RZRC ίη / ZZΖΠZ / E / YΙΛΙ example, Figure 14; and (3). In addition, the capsule can also be filled by assembling the components underwater in Figure 13. The flexible components of the capsule and the external surfaces of the first and second walls are brought into apposition, providing a partial vacuum sufficient to generate a lower relative internal pressure within the fluid retention interior, to create a suction force that moves the fluid into the fluid retention interior within the cavity formed by the flexible components. Figure 17 illustrates an additional design option with external dimples on the complementary outer surface of the capsule, 12. Internal surfaces of the sealing capsule, 14. Dimples on the external surface of the capsule, 32a. Dimples on the complementary outer capsule surface, 32b. Throughout this design option, there is a ridged textured surface pattern. Figures 18 and 19 are the exterior and cross-section of the internal and external sealing surfaces with a surface pattern that has dimples on the surface of the external capsule 32a and the complementary outer capsule surface 32b. Returning to the modalities in Figures 20 to 25, additional design forms can be implemented, such as a capsule shaped like an oval, round, or slightly elongated spheroid. The modalities are not limited to capsules whose shape is topologically equivalent to a sphere, and the components can vary in number, size, or shape. The capsule shape can be topologically equivalent to a sphere or a torus. The external appearance can vary in shape, as well as in translucency, color, or surface textures, but the components will still join together to form a seal. For example, a torus is possible. The capsule shapes and external design could be donuts, bagels, or hamburgers to allow for a food fight. Figure 20 illustrates an additional design of the torus-shaped capsule component in the form of a donut ring and similar shapes.Complementary external surface of capsule 12 and internal surface of sealing capsule 14 with the outer section of ring 34a. Figure 21 illustrates the additional design form of a toroidal capsule component ring. Internal surfaces of sealing capsule 14 and inner section of ring 34b, where Figure 22 illustrates the additional design form of a toroidal capsule component ring. Complementary external surface of capsule 12. Internal surfaces of sealing capsule 14. Outer section of ring 34a. Inner section of ring 34b. The toroid made of two identical components may have four (4) orifices, each of which may be blocked, compressed, and stepped on to project jets of water through the orifices. In addition, each different modality of the described spherical capsules may project jets of water directionally when stepped on. Figure 23 illustrates the additional design form of a capsule shaped like an elongated oval spheroid, rounded with a slightly elongated contour. Complementary external surface of capsule 12 with internal surfaces of the sealing capsule 14 and outer section of oval 36a. In the embodiments described herein, the components may vary in size and shape and are not limited to spheres or ovoid, cubic, or spheroid-cylindrical shapes. The external appearance may vary in shape, color, or surface textures; however, any two components will mate with any other component having a seal of identical shape. Figure 24 illustrates the additional design form of a capsule shaped like an oval spheroid, rounded with a slightly elongated contour. Complementary external surface of capsule 12 with internal surfaces of the sealing capsule 14 and outer section of oval 36b.Figure 25 illustrates the additional design shape of a capsule with a rounded, oval spheroid shape, with a slightly elongated contour of the complementary outer surface of capsule 12 with complementary outer section of oval 36a and 36b. Figure 26 shows an additional design form of a capsule or sphero-cylinder, the outer complementary surface of the capsule 12, and inner surfaces of the sealing capsule 14 having an oval outer section, 38a. Figure 27 has an additional design form of a capsule or sphero-cylinder. Inner surfaces of the oval sealing capsule 14, 38b. Figure 28 is an additional design in the form of a capsule or sphero-cylinder, outer complementary surface of the capsule, outer section of the oval 38a and 38b. In the embodiments of this invention, the components may or may not be identical. Identical components allow for rapid assembly and new releases. Non-identical components increase the excitement in a different way by requiring the initial identification of parts that work together. An additional modality may include an additional surprise toy inside the capsule, which adds a functional use of the packaging for additional surprise toys where a small toy, such as a toy car, ball, card games or other small objects, can be sold / packaged as housed inside the two halves of the capsule when sold together, further allowing the water capsule toy to be used for the packaging function. Returning to Figure 29, an additional design form provides an elongated capsule or sphero-cylinder shape. This design has two identical end capsules that fit into the central inner cylinder. This design has more than two components and adds to the excitement of the game; furthermore, this design can extend the filling time and could be limited to the underwater filling option. External complementary surface of the capsule, 12. Internal sealing capsule surfaces, 14. Central cylinder with two internal sealing surfaces 40c. Figure 30 is a cross-section of the sealing edges of an additional design form of an elongated capsule or sphero-cylinder. This design has two identical end capsules that fit into the central inner cylinder.The complementary external surface of capsule 12 and the internal surfaces of the sealing capsule 14, along with the end capsule 40b of Figures 29-31, provide an additional design form of an elongated capsule or spherocylinder. This design has two identical end capsules that fit onto the central inner cylinder. The complementary external surface of capsule 12 and the internal surface of the sealing capsule 14, along with the terminal capsule 40a and the central cylinder with two internal sealing surfaces 40c of Figure 32, provide an additional design form of an elongated capsule or spherocylinder. This design has two identical end capsules that fit onto the central inner cylinder. Complementary external surface of capsule, 12. Internal surfaces of sealing capsule, 14. End capsule, 40a. End capsule, 40b. Central cylinder with two internal sealing surfaces, 40c. Figures 33 and 34 illustrate a submersible mesh bag and assembled capsules to be submerged in water to fill each capsule according to the described procedures. The mesh bag 42 is submerged in water 28 for capsule 10 in a container such as a bucket 30 or similar. Figure 36 illustrates the submersible mesh bag with assembled capsules, the bucket filled with fluid, and the submersible mesh bag containing empty assembled capsules being lowered into water 28. Figure 37 illustrates the submersible mesh bag with assembled capsules in a bucket filled with fluid and a submersible mesh bag showing capsules under compression pressure expelling air from the assembled capsules being submerged in water to fill each capsule 10. Typically, during the game, the disassembled components will be placed together, and the players will find and assemble the components and fill the capsules with water.One way to increase the excitement of the game is as follows. The components are assembled in a net bag or similar container, or placed inside first and then assembled in the bag (Figure 33). The net bag (42) is then submerged in water, for example, in a bucket. Pressure (P) is then applied by hand (Figures 33 and 34), pressing down on the bag several times and compressing the capsules each time. The bag can now be removed from the bucket, leaving the capsules assembled and filled with water. Figure 35 shows a bucket filled with fluid in cross-section for filling (13). RZRC iη / ZZΖΠZ / E / YΙΛΙ of the assembled capsules to be submerged according to the described methods. Figure 36 illustrates the submersible mesh bag or net 42 with the assembled capsules 10 and the fluid-filled bucket with the submersible mesh bag containing the empty assembled capsules. Figure 37 illustrates the submersible mesh bag with the assembled capsules in a fluid-filled bucket. The submersible mesh bag shows the assembled capsules under compression pressure with the aim of filling each capsule, according to the described methods. Refillable water toy structures can be provided in multiple shapes and sizes, for example, a 50-millimeter capsule size for capsule toy displays and a larger 65-millimeter tennis ball size for the full experience of popping balloons and enjoying water balloons and capsule toys. A variety of rubber types and methods, both vulcanized and non-vulcanized, can be used to manufacture this reusable water toy capsule.The advantageous materials identified were considered to include plastics and soft rubber-like materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), thermoplastic rubber or elastomers (TPR or TPE), resins, or other compounds formed from any material, assembly, mixtures, or combinations such that the soft projectile has a Shore A hardness value of about 20 to about 55, about 25 to about 50, about 30 to about 45, or about 35 to about 40. Examples of balls tested include a ball thickness of 2, 3, 4 mm; other suitable values may include thicknesses of about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 8 mm. The test sample batches considered in different materials / thicknesses / hardness in PVC, TPR and TPE, with the softness of the materials include, for example: PVC / 50 degrees - 1, 2, 3, 4 mm ball thicknesses; TPR / 50 degrees - 1, 2, 3, 4 mm ball thicknesses; TPE / 40 degrees - 1, 2, 3, 4 mm ball thicknesses.The durometer hardness of materials with a Shore A hardness of 30, 40, or 50 is generally found in materials such as TPR / TPE 30, 40, and 50, PVC 30, 40, and 50, and similar materials, with wall thicknesses of 1.25 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.75 mm, and 2.0 mm. Examples identify several different options that can be considered as possible materials for PVC, TPR, or TPE. For example, TPE, the introduction of bio TPE from the manufacturer Terinseo™, and resin sample distributor Plastech™ HK™. For example, green PVC from the manufacturer Grandtec™, using commercially available green PVC with a Shore A hardness of 40. Example 1 Example 2 Material: PVC 50° Material: TPR 50° RZRC ίη / ΖΖΠΖ / Ε / ΥΙΛΙ Ball thickness: 2 mm Test criteria: free fall, ball orientation halves / separation line: horizontal placement Ball thickness: 2 mm Test criteria: free fall, ball orientation halves / separation line: vertical placement RZRC ίη / ΖΖΠΖ / Ε / ΥΙΛΙ Height; weight of the plastic part (g); Height; weight of the plastic part (g); Total weight with water (g) Total weight with water (g) 1.0 M 52.5 122 ok 1.0 M 43.9 114.6 ok 1.5 M 52.5 122.5 ok 1.5 M 43.9 114.3 ok 1.8 M 52.5 122.3 ok 1.8 M 43.9 113.9 ok 2.0 M 52.5 122.5 ok 2.0 M 43.9 114.5 ok Example 3 Material: TPE 40° Ball thickness: 2 mm Test criteria: free fall Example 4 Material: TPE 40° Ball thickness: 2 mm Test criteria: free fall, halves of the ball orientation / line of 2, halves of the ball orientation / separation line: vertical placement, separation: horizontal placement Height; weight of the plastic part (g); total weight with water (g) 1.0 M 45.3 113.7 ok 1.0 M 45.3 113.7 ok 1.5 M 45.3 112.9 ok 1.5 M 45.3 112.9 ok 1.8 M 45.3 112.5 ok 1.8 M 45.3 112.5 ok 2.0 M 45.3 113.3 ok 2.0 M 45.3 113.3 ok The balance between less material in the mold and sufficient breakage upon impact was considered, along with details of the capsule composition, including the specific range of materials that could be used, the range of possible wall thicknesses expected, and any alternative configurations. Prototypes with wall thicknesses of 2 mm, 3 mm, and 4 mm were created, and PVC and TPE were defined as the materials. The 2 mm wall thickness proved in testing to be the best-performing material, requiring less material, resulting in lower weight, and contributing to the improved performance. These can be manufactured using soft plastic materials that do not present any of the safety issues associated with undue Shore hardness by molding with bio-TPE of Shore A hardness 35 and 40 at a thickness of 2 mm. A variety of different reusable toy capsule devices have been described, including a pair of flexible components.each with a first wall having a first wall edge and a first wall outer surface in the form of a curved hemisphere surface and a first wall inner surface thereof; a second wall having a second wall edge and a second wall outer surface in the form of a quarter-sphere curved surface and a second wall inner surface thereof,The second wall is integrally formed with the first wall as a curved surface in the shape of a three-quarter sphere and defines an opening between the edge of the first wall and the edge of the second wall with a fluid-retaining interior; and a fluid seal is formed with the pair of flexible components, wherein a portion of each outer surface of the second wall is apposed to a portion of each inner surface of the first wall of the pair of flexible components. The reusable toy capsule apparatus further comprises a portion of each outer surface of the second wall with a coupling tab for apposition to a portion of the inner surface of the first wall. The reusable toy capsule apparatus further comprises the edge of the first wall with a primary sealing edge and the edge of the second wall with a secondary sealing edge. The reusable toy capsule apparatus may further include at least one rib on the inner surface of the first wall where a secondary sealing edge engages with at least one rib when a portion of each outer surface of the second wall is brought into apposition with a portion of each of the inner surfaces of the first wall of said pair of flexible components. The reusable toy capsule apparatus includes a plurality of ribs on the inner surface of the first wall. The reusable toy capsule apparatus further has one or more ribs on the inner surface of the second wall. Methods for reusable toy capsules have also been described, providing a pair of flexible components, each having an outer surface of the first wall and an inner surface, and having a second wall with an outer surface of the second wall and an inner surface of the second wall; and wherein the second wall is integrally arranged together with the first wall; defining an interior containing fluids; receiving fluid between the RZRC iη / ZZΖΠZ / E / YΙΛΙ first wall and second wall; and form a fluid seal with the pair of flexible components where a portion of each outer surface of the second wall is brought into apposition with a portion of each inner surface of the first wall of the pair of flexible components. The reusable toy capsule methods further wherein the stage of receiving fluid into the fluid-containing interior between the first pair of flexible components and the outer surfaces of the second wall brought into apposition further comprises providing a partial vacuum sufficient to achieve a lower relative internal pressure within the fluid-retaining interior to create a suction force that moves the fluid into the fluid-retaining interior within the pair of flexible components.Reusable toy capsule methods can provide a first wall edge on the first wall of each flexible component, and a second wall edge by defining an opening in the second wall of each flexible component between the first and second wall edges. These methods can also provide a primary sealing edge along the edge of the first wall, with the outer surface portion of the second wall apposed to the inner surface portion of the first wall. This secondary sealing edge is then maintained within the fluid retention chamber by hydrostatic pressure pushing against the walls, generating surface tension within the fluid retention chamber of the pair of flexible components. From the foregoing, it can be seen that a unique mechanical toy apparatus has been provided that functions as an entertainment device in the general form of a reusable exploding water toy capsule in a manner that is simple yet unique and exciting for the user. While particular embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be evident to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications can be made without departing from the invention in its broader aspects. The object of the appended claims is therefore to cover all changes and modifications that fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention. The subject matter set forth in the foregoing description and accompanying figures is offered by way of illustration only and not as a limitation.The scope of the invention is intended to be defined in the following claims when viewed in their proper perspective based on the state of the art.
Claims
1. A reusable toy capsule apparatus, comprising: a pair of flexible components, each flexible component comprising: a first wall having an outer first wall surface and an inner first wall surface thereof; a second wall having an outer second wall surface and an inner second wall surface thereof, said second wall being integrally formed together with said first wall, defining a fluid-retaining interior for receiving fluid between said first wall and said second wall; and a fluid seal formed with said pair of flexible components wherein a portion of each outer second wall surface is placed in apposition with a portion of each inner first wall surface of said pair of flexible components.
2. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 1, wherein the portion of each outer surface of the second wall comprises a coupling tab for being placed in apposition with the portion of the inner surface of the first wall.
3. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 1, wherein said first wall of each flexible component further comprises a first wall edge, and said second wall of each flexible component further comprises a second wall edge defining an opening in each flexible component between the edge of the first wall and the edge of the second wall.
4. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 3, wherein the edge of the first wall comprises a primary sealing edge, and the edge of the second wall comprises a secondary sealing edge.
5. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 4, further comprising at least one rib on the inner surface of the first wall where a secondary sealing edge engages with at least said rib, when a portion of each outer surface of the second wall is brought into apposition with a portion of each inner surface of the first wall of said pair of flexible components.
6. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 3, wherein the outer surface of the first wall comprises a curved surface in the shape of a hemisphere, and wherein the outer surface of the second wall comprises a curved surface in the shape of a quarter of a sphere, with said second wall being integrally formed with said first wall as a curved surface in the shape of a three-quarter sphere.
7. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 6, further comprising a primary sealing edge along the edge of the first wall of the curved hemispherical surface of the first wall, with the portion of each outer surface of the second wall comprising a coupling tab for apposition with the portion of the inner surface of the first wall wherein the edge of the second wall comprises a secondary sealing edge.
8. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 4, further comprising a plurality of ribs on the inner surface of the first wall.
9. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 4, further comprising one or more ribs on the inner surface of the second wall.
10. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 1, comprising one or more additional flexible components having a curved inner wall surface and a curved outer wall surface forming another fluid seal with said pair of flexible components, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the second wall is placed in apposition with a portion of the curved inner wall surface of one or more additional flexible components.
11. A reusable toy capsule apparatus, comprising: a pair of flexible components, where each flexible component comprises: a first wall having a first wall edge and an outer surface of the first wall in the form of a curved hemispherical surface and an inner surface of the first wall thereof; a second wall having a second wall edge and an outer surface of the second wall in the form of a curved quarter-sphere surface and an inner surface of the second wall thereof, said second wall being integrally formed with said first wall as a curved surface in the form of a three-quarter sphere and defining an opening between the first wall edge and the second wall edge with a fluid-retaining interior;and a fluid seal formed with said pair of flexible components where a portion of each outer surface of the second wall is placed in apposition with a portion of each inner surface of the first wall of said pair of flexible components.; 12. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 11, wherein the portion of each outer surface of the second wall comprises a coupling tab for being placed in apposition with the portion of the inner surface of the first wall.
13. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 11, wherein the edge of the first wall comprises a primary sealing edge, and the edge of the second wall comprises a secondary sealing edge.
14. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 13, further comprising at least one rib on the inner surface of the first wall where a secondary sealing edge engages with at least said rib, when a portion of each outer surface of the second wall is brought into apposition with a portion of each inner surface of the first wall of said pair of flexible components.
15. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 13, further comprising a plurality of ribs on the inner surface of the first wall.
16. The reusable toy capsule apparatus referred to in claim 13, further comprising one or more ribs on the inner surface of the second wall.
17. A reusable toy capsule method, comprising: providing a pair of flexible components, each having an outer surface of the first wall and an inner surface of the first wall thereof, and having a second wall having an outer surface of the second wall and an inner surface of the second wall thereof; arranging the second wall integrally with the first wall; defining a fluid-retaining interior; receiving fluid between the first wall and the second wall; and forming a fluid seal with the pair of flexible components where a portion of each outer surface of the second wall is placed in apposition with a portion of each inner surface of the first wall of the pair of flexible components.
18. The reusable toy capsule method mentioned in claim 17, wherein the step of receiving fluid into the fluid retention interior between the first pair of flexible components and the outer surfaces of the second wall brought into apposition, further comprises providing a partial vacuum sufficient to achieve a lower relative internal pressure within the fluid retention interior, to create a suction force that moves the fluid into the fluid retention interior within the pair of flexible components.
19. The reusable toy capsule method referred to in claim 17, comprising the steps of providing a first wall edge on the first wall of each flexible component, and providing a second wall edge on the second wall of each flexible component defining an opening in each flexible component between the first wall edge and the second wall edge.
20. The reusable toy capsule method mentioned in claim 18, comprising the steps of providing a primary sealing edge along the edge of the first wall, with the portion of each outer surface of the second wall placed in apposition with the portion of the inner surface of the first wall with the edge of the second wall providing a secondary sealing edge, and retaining the fluid inside the fluid retention by the hydrostatic pressure of the fluid pushing against the walls to generate surface tension on the inside of the fluid retention within the pair of flexible components.