Dye Embedded Compound
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- US · United States
- Patent Type
- Applications(United States)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-02-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images

Figure US20260233115A1-D00000_ABST
Abstract
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of Invention
[0001] The present invention relates to a “modeling dough product with a hidden dye injection system that creates a color-revealing surprise upon use.” Specifically, the invention pertains to a “pre-packaged, ready-to-use modeling dough that provides a surprise and color-changing experience, which was previously only achievable through complex or messy DIY methods.” This invention addresses the unmet demand for “a product that blends creativity, fun, and surprise in an easy-to-use format” targeted at children and families. The invention is designed to enhance creativity and sensory play by incorporating a surprise element that changes the dough's color during manipulation.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention is directed to a kids' modeling dough product that incorporates “a hidden dye injection system that creates a color-revealing surprise upon use.” The dough is initially packaged in a “single, uniform color (e.g., white or another solid color),” with a “vibrant dye injected into the center of the dough using a specialized process.” This ensures that “the dye remains entirely concealed within the dough until manipulated by the user.”
[0003] When the dough is manipulated, “the hidden dye spreads and blends with the base color, creating a surprising and visually dynamic color change.” The product eliminates “the inconvenience and effort of attempting similar activities at home while enhancing the play experience with a professionally made, safe, and reliable surprise element.” This invention meets consumer demand for a “pre-packaged, ready-to-use modeling dough that provides a surprise and color-changing experience,” offering a unique and engaging toy for children and families.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0004] FIG. 1: Illustrates the key components of the invention, including the dough (1.101), hidden dye (1.103), dye injector (1.104), and airtight container (1.102), showcasing their interaction and role in the product's functionality.
[0005] FIG. 2: The process involves forming a homogeneous dough base, injecting a concealed dye, sealing and packaging the dough to preserve its integrity, conducting quality checks, and culminating in a consumer interaction where manipulation reveals the hidden color.DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0006] The present invention introduces a modeling dough product that features a concealed dye injection system, delivering a unique and interactive color-revealing surprise upon manipulation. This innovative product addresses the unmet market demand for a pre-packaged, ready-to-use play material that combines creativity, sensory engagement, and the excitement of a hidden transformation.Composition and Initial Formation
[0007] The modeling dough, designated as 1.101, is composed of a “non-toxic, pliable, and child-safe composition” suitable for repeated manipulation by children. The dough is pre-formed as a homogeneous mass, typically in a neutral or light base color such as white, beige, or light pastels, to create an optimal contrast with the injected dye. This initial uniformity ensures that the “hidden dye remains entirely concealed within the dough until manipulated by the user.”Dye Injection System
[0008] The core innovation lies in the dye injection system, which incorporates a “precise amount of liquid or gel-based dye 1.103” introduced into the dough during the manufacturing process. The injection process utilizes either a syringe or an automated nozzle, labeled as 1.104, that is calibrated to deliver controlled and consistent placement of the dye into the dough's core.
[0009] The injection mechanism ensures that the dye is “fully enclosed and remains hidden before use,” maintaining its integrity during storage and transport. This process distinguishes the invention from existing systems, where the dye is often visible or requires user intervention to embed it into the dough. The concealed placement enhances the product's appeal by ensuring a “true surprise reveal” when the dough is manipulated.Sealing and Final Packaging
[0010] After the dye injection, the dough undergoes a reforming process that seals the dye within the material, ensuring it remains undetectable during storage. The dough is then packaged in an airtight container, designated as 1.102, which “preserves its quality and prevents drying.” The container is specifically designed to maintain the dough's pliability and shelf life while preventing premature color mixing or dye leakage.
[0011] This packaging system not only ensures product longevity but also provides a clean and convenient user experience, eliminating the risk of mess or contamination during handling.Functional Interaction and Color Transformation
[0012] The invention's primary functionality is activated when the user manipulates the dough, such as stretching, kneading, or pressing it. This physical interaction causes the “hidden dye 1.103 to disperse into the surrounding dough 1.101.” The dispersion process results in a “surprising and visually dynamic color change,” creating an engaging and emotionally rewarding play experience.
[0013] The dye is specifically formulated to integrate seamlessly with the dough during manipulation, ensuring a smooth and uniform color transformation. This design eliminates the inconsistencies commonly associated with DIY or home-prepared solutions, which often fail to achieve even dye distribution.Variations and Enhancements
[0014] The invention allows for several potential variations and enhancements to meet diverse consumer preferences and market requirements:
[0015] Dough Composition: The base dough formulation can vary in texture, consistency, and color, provided it retains its pliability and compatibility with the dye dispersion process.
[0016] Dye Types: The dye may be liquid, gel, or powdered, with formulations tailored to safety, environmental, or marketing considerations. For example, food-grade, plant-based, or synthetic dyes may be used.
[0017] Injection Methods: While the primary method involves a syringe or automated nozzle 1.104, alternative techniques, such as multiple smaller injections or layering systems, can be employed to create varied color-reveal patterns.
[0018] Customization of Reveal Patterns: The dye placement within the dough can include central injection, multiple smaller pockets, or layered configurations, enabling diverse and customizable color-reveal effects.
[0019] Additional Sensory Features: The dough may incorporate additional elements such as glitter, scent, or soft beads, provided these enhancements do not interfere with the dye's ability to spread during manipulation.
[0020] Packaging Variability: While the airtight container 1.102 is the standard, its design can be customized for branding, themed aesthetics, or special editions, such as holiday-themed or character-branded packaging.Advantages of the Invention
[0021] The invention offers several distinct advantages over existing solutions:
[0022] Hidden Surprise Element: Unlike existing products, such as those incorporating visible dye chunks, this system ensures that the “dye remains entirely concealed,” enhancing the excitement of the reveal.
[0023] Convenience: By providing a“professionally manufactured product,” the invention eliminates the “inconvenience and effort of attempting similar activities at home,” such as embedding dye into dough manually.
[0024] Uniform Transformation: The pre-injected dye disperses smoothly and consistently during play, avoiding the uneven or messy results commonly associated with DIY methods.
[0025] Safety and Cleanliness: The use of “non-toxic, tested materials” ensures a child-friendly product, while the sealed design prevents leaks, stains, or other messes.
[0026] Enhanced Play Experience: The tactile and visual elements of the product create an engaging sensory activity, promoting creativity and exploration in children.
[0027] This detailed description underscores the invention's innovative design, robust functionality, and flexibility for adaptation, making it a groundbreaking addition to the toy and craft markets.Scalability and Future Modifications
[0028] Multi-Layer Dye Injection: Enhancement: Introduces multiple layers or pockets of dye (1.103) within the dough (1.101) to create complex color-reveal patterns or gradients when manipulated.Benefits
[0029] Provides a more engaging and dynamic color transformation.
[0030] Enables advanced customization, such as rainbow effects or dual-color transitions, to expand consumer interest.
[0031] Customizable Dye Placement: Enhancement: Develop tools or manufacturing methods that allow for customizable dye placements, such as shapes (e.g., stars, hearts) or thematic patterns.Benefits
[0032] Adds a creative and thematic element to the play experience.
[0033] Aligns with seasonal or branded editions, increasing marketability.
[0034] Additional Sensory Elements: Enhancement: Incorporate other sensory elements like scent, texture (e.g., foam beads, glitter), or thermochromatic dyes that change with temperature.Benefits
[0035] Expands the sensory appeal of the product, increasing engagement.
[0036] Thermochromatic dyes could add an educational component (e.g., teaching temperature effects).
[0037] Eco-Friendly Materials Enhancement: Utilize biodegradable or compostable materials for both the dough (1.101) and packaging (1.102), aligning with sustainable practices.Benefits
[0038] Appeals to environmentally conscious consumers.
[0039] Meets increasing regulatory and market demands for eco-friendly products.
[0040] Enhanced Durability and Reusability: Enhancement: Improve the formulation of the dough (1.101) to maintain its pliability and usability over extended periods, even after multiple uses.Benefits
[0041] Increases customer satisfaction and product longevity.
[0042] Reduces product waste, enhancing the product's value proposition.
[0043] Integrated Play Features: Enhancement: Design play kits that integrate molds, tools, or themed accessories that work with the dough to create specific shapes or scenarios.Benefits
[0044] Encourages interactive play and sparks creativity.
[0045] Allows the product to cater to educational or storytelling applications.
[0046] Advanced Packaging Design: Enhancement: Introduce resealable, multi-compartment containers (1.102) that keep dough and additional features (like extra dyes or tools) separate until ready for use.Benefits
[0047] Prevents unintentional color mixing during storage.
[0048] Enables additional features, like layering multiple dyes or integrating glitter just before use.Smart Technology Integration
[0049] Enhancement: Include augmented reality (AR) or QR codes on the packaging (1.102) that unlock interactive digital experiences, such as tutorials or storytelling related to the product.Benefits
[0050] Adds a tech-driven, educational component to the product.
[0051] Attracts digitally engaged children and families.
[0052] Commercial Adaptations for Institutions: Enhancement: Develop larger, bulk-packaged versions with educational kits targeted at schools or therapy centers. Include instructional materials for educators or therapists.Benefits
[0053] Opens new market segments in education and therapy.
[0054] Showcases the product as a tool for teaching color theory, fine motor skills, or sensory integration
[0055] Advanced Dye Variants: Enhancement: Introduce dyes that have additional functionality, such as glowing in the dark, responding to UV light, or creating dual-phase color transitions.Benefits
[0056] Broadens product applications, such as party-themed editions or STEM-focused educational kits.
[0057] Increases product differentiation in a competitive market.Detailed Description of Figures
[0058] FIG. 1.101 Dough: The dough is represented as a homogeneous, pliable material made from a “non-toxic, child-safe composition.” It is pre-formed in a neutral base color, such as white or pastel shades, ensuring that the hidden dye will stand out prominently upon manipulation. The dough is shown as a uniform mass capable of enclosing the injected dye while maintaining its structural integrity during storage and use. The material composition is designed to enable smooth dispersion of the dye (1.103) without compromising the tactile experience.
[0059] FIG. 1.102 Airtight Container: The airtight container is depicted as a robust and sealed unit designed to “preserve the dough's quality and prevent drying.” The container encloses the dough (1.101) after the dye injection process, preventing exposure to air or contaminants that might compromise the product's freshness or functionality. Features such as tamper-proof seals and child-friendly opening mechanisms are incorporated into the container design, ensuring convenience and safety for the consumer.
[0060] FIG. 1.103 Hidden Dye: The dye is depicted as a concealed element injected into the core of the dough (1.101). It is formulated in liquid, gel, or powdered form to ensure compatibility with the dough's composition. The dye remains hidden and immobile until the dough is physically manipulated. Its central placement optimizes the color-reveal effect, allowing for uniform blending and a visually dynamic transformation during use.
[0061] FIG. 1.104 Dye Injector: The injector is shown as a precision system, either syringe-based or automated, that introduces the dye (1.103) into the dough (1.101) without leaving visible traces. The injector is designed to penetrate the dough and deposit the dye in a controlled manner, ensuring consistency across production batches. The figure highlights the injector's nozzle, which is calibrated to deliver the exact quantity of dye required to maintain the product's uniformity and functionality.
[0062] FIG. 2.101: Forming the Dough Base—The process begins with forming the dough base (1.101), which is made from a “non-toxic, pliable, and child-safe composition.” Raw ingredients such as flour, water, softening agents, and preservatives are mixed in industrial equipment to achieve a uniform, pliable consistency. The dough is then portioned into consistent sizes and shapes, ensuring that each unit conforms to predefined weight and dimension specifications for uniform processing.
[0063] FIG. 2.103: Preparing the Dye—The dye (1.103) is prepared in liquid, gel, or powdered form depending on the desired application and product requirements. The selected dye is loaded into precision dye reservoirs as part of the injection system (1.104), ensuring its compatibility with the dough material and its ability to evenly disperse during manipulation. The system is calibrated to dispense controlled amounts for consistent product performance.
[0064] FIG. 2.105: Injecting the Dye-Using the dye injection system (1.104), the dye (1.103) is injected into the center of the dough (1.101). Automated nozzles are programmed to deliver a precise quantity of dye into a concealed pocket within the dough, ensuring it remains entirely hidden before consumer interaction. The system's precision prevents any visible leaks or uneven placement, optimizing the subsequent color-reveal effect.
[0065] FIG. 2.107: Sealing the Dough—After the dye (1.103) has been injected, the dough (1.101) is re-formed around the dye pocket to seal it completely. This ensures the dye remains enclosed and undetectable during handling or storage. The re-sealed dough is inspected to verify structural integrity, with any inconsistencies corrected before proceeding to the next step.
[0066] FIG. 2.109: Packaging the Dough—The sealed dough is placed into airtight containers (1.102) to “preserve its quality and prevent drying.” These containers are specifically designed to maintain the dough's pliability and prevent environmental exposure. Additional features, such as tamper-proof seals and branding elements, are incorporated at this stage to ensure product quality and consumer confidence.
[0067] FIG. 2.111: Quality Assurance and Testing—A comprehensive quality assurance process is conducted to verify the functionality and safety of the product. Tests are performed to ensure proper dye placement, airtight sealing, and compliance with child safety standards. Simulated usage scenarios are employed to confirm that the dye (1.103) disperses evenly during manipulation, delivering the intended color-reveal effect.
[0068] FIG. 2.113: Consumer Use and Color Reveal—The final step occurs when the consumer manipulates the dough (1.101) by stretching, kneading, or pressing it. This physical interaction activates the dispersion of the hidden dye (1.103) into the surrounding dough, creating a “surprising and visually dynamic color change.” The engaging tactile and visual experience fulfills the product's intended purpose, enhancing creativity and sensory play.
Examples
Embodiment Construction
[0006]The present invention introduces a modeling dough product that features a concealed dye injection system, delivering a unique and interactive color-revealing surprise upon manipulation. This innovative product addresses the unmet market demand for a pre-packaged, ready-to-use play material that combines creativity, sensory engagement, and the excitement of a hidden transformation.
Composition and Initial Formation
[0007]The modeling dough, designated as 1.101, is composed of a “non-toxic, pliable, and child-safe composition” suitable for repeated manipulation by children. The dough is pre-formed as a homogeneous mass, typically in a neutral or light base color such as white, beige, or light pastels, to create an optimal contrast with the injected dye. This initial uniformity ensures that the “hidden dye remains entirely concealed within the dough until manipulated by the user.”
Dye Injection System
[0008]The core innovation lies in the dye injection system, which incorporates a “p...
Claims
1. A modeling dough product comprising:a. A homogeneous dough base made of a non-toxic, pliable, and child-safe composition;b. A hidden dye injected into the dough, wherein the dye is fully enclosed and remains hidden until the dough is manipulated by the user;c. An airtight container configured to preserve the dough's quality and prevent drying, wherein the container ensures the dye remains undetectable before use.
2. The modeling dough product of claim 1, wherein the hidden dye is injected using a dye injection system comprising a syringe or automated nozzle designed to deliver consistent and controlled placement of the dye within the dough.
3. The modeling dough product of claim 1, wherein manipulation of the dough causes the hidden dye to disperse into the dough, creating a surprising and visually dynamic color change.
4. The modeling dough product of claim 1, wherein the dough base is pre-formed in a uniform, neutral base color selected from white, beige, or light pastel shades, to optimize contrast with the hidden dye.
5. The modeling dough product of claim 1, wherein the dye is selected from liquid, gel, or powdered formulations that are compatible with the dough material and capable of spreading uniformly upon manipulation.
6. The modeling dough product of claim 1, wherein the airtight container is configured to prevent premature mixing of the dye and dough and maintain the product's shelf life.
7. A method for producing a modeling dough product with a color-revealing feature, comprising:a. Forming a homogeneous dough base with a non-toxic, pliable, and child-safe composition;b. Injecting a precise amount of dye into the dough using a dye injection system configured to ensure the dye is fully enclosed and remains hidden until manipulated by the user;c. Reforming the dough to seal the injected dye within the dough base; andd. Packaging the dough in an airtight container to preserve its quality.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the dye injection system is automated and calibrated to deliver the dye to the center or multiple locations within the dough.
9. The method of claim 7, further comprising the step of customizing the dye placement to achieve specific reveal patterns, including centralized or distributed configurations.
10. The method of claim 7, wherein the airtight container is designed to prevent contamination, leakage, or premature mixing of the dye and dough.
11. The modeling dough product of claim 1, further comprising one or more of glitter, scent, or texture elements.
12. The modeling dough product of claim 1, wherein the hidden dye is formulated with child-safe and non-toxic ingredients comprising food-grade plant-based options.
13. The method of claim 7, further comprising varying the base color of the dough in a gradient from top to bottom and varying the color of the dye in a gradient from top to bottom to create different color-reveal effects.
14. The modeling dough product of claim 1, wherein the dye disperses uniformly during manipulation, resulting in a seamless and consistent color transformation.
15. The modeling dough product of claim 1, wherein the packaging is customizable for branding, themed aesthetics, or special editions, including holiday or character-branded designs.