Themed toy with a generator device and a component for creating a themed visual effect

Abstract

Embodiments describe an effect generation system including a housing defining an interior region and associated with a structure having a construction according to a theme, where the theme is associated with a visual effect. The system further includes an effect generator disposed within the interior region and configured to move air at least partially within the interior region of the housing and out of the housing through an opening of the housing. The system further includes an effect component attached to the housing at the opening and configured to move by interacting with the air, the effect component is constructed to appear and move in a way that imitates the visual effect in accordance with the theme of the structure. The effect generation system can be a handheld toy that has a vehicle or animal theme.

Description

THEMED TOY WITH A GENERATOR DEVICE AND A COMPONENT FOR CREATING A THEMED VISUAL EFFECT CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This Application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 545,608 filed October 25, 2023, which is incorporated herein in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to physical toys. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to handheld physical toys that generate wind to create visual effects. BACKGROUND

[0003] People of all ages enjoy playing with physical toys. Some toys, however, are simple, monotonic, and uninspiring. SUMMARY

[0004] Various implementations disclosed herein include an elaborate, mentally- stimulating, and themed physical toy that can generate wind for interacting with a component to create a themed visual effect. For example, a toy can have a theme of traveling objects, such as a rocket or a racecar. Such themes can be associated with a visual effect, e.g., rocket flame shooting out of an engine of a rocket as it launches through the air, or exhaust fire shooting out of tailpipes of a racecar as it barrels down a racetrack. The toy can have a component that looks like flame or exhaust fire and be made of a thin material so that it flutters and flaps as it interacts with wind blowing out of the toy.

[0005] In some embodiments, the physical toy can be an effect generation system that includes an effect generator for generating the wind, and an effect component for interacting with the wind. The effect generation system can include a housing that is shaped according to the theme of the toy. The effect generator can be positioned within the themed housing and can generate wind that blows out of an opening in the housing. The opening can be positioned where the visual effect is logically positioned accordingto the theme of the toy. For instance, the opening can be at the backend of the toy rocket housing so that wind generated by the effect generator can exit the housing through the opening in accordance with actual flames exiting out of a real-life rocket. According to some embodiments, the effect component can be coupled to the housing at the opening so that it can interact with the exiting wind and provide a stimulating visual display that mimics and / or animates the visual effect of the theme of the toy. For example, the effect component can be a ribbon attached to the housing at the opening and constructed with a flame-like construction to mimic / animate fire exploding out of the toy rocket by fluttering in the wind exiting the housing.

[0006] Such a toy can create a mentally stimulating experience for the user. It can stimulate wonder and awe in those who are still learning about the world. It can also spark imagination, stimulate curiosity and problem-solving skills that are foundational to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields. Furthermore, it can stimulate joy and amusement by simply providing a unique experience in the field of physical toys; and, it can encourage and / or motivate the user to move and run around while playing with the toy, which can help with muscle development and hand / eye coordination.

[0007] In some embodiments, an effect generation system includes a housing defining an interior region and associated with a structure constructed according to a theme, where the theme is associated with a visual effect, an effect generator disposed within the interior region and configured to move air at least partially within the interior region of the housing and out of the housing through an opening of the housing, and an effect component attached to the housing at the opening and configured to move by interacting with the air. The effect component can be constructed to move in a way that imitates the visual effect in accordance with the theme of the structure.

[0008] The air can be moved through the opening of the housing along an exit direction, where the exit direction is at a non-zero angle with respect to a vertically upward direction originating from a center point of the opening when the housing is in a stationary position in accordance with the theme of the structure. The vertically upward direction can be orthogonal to and pointed away from a surface on which the effect generation system is positioned. The opening can be positioned at a location where the visual effect is associated according to the theme. The structure can be a handheld toy.The theme is an object that travels on the ground or in the air and the visual effect mimics dynamics of the object as it travels on the ground or in the air. The theme can be a vehicle theme and the visual effect mimics combustion exiting the vehicle. The vehicle can be a rocket or an airplane having an engine, and the visual effect can be fire exiting the engine. The vehicle can be a racecar, and the visual effect can be fire exiting the exhaust. The housing can be constructed as a handheld toy having the construction according to the theme. The effect generator can include a generator housing having a toy interface mechanism for attaching to the housing, the housing being configured as the handheld toy having the construction according to the theme. The housing can include an effect interface feature for attaching to the effect generator by way of the toy interface feature of the effect generator. The opening can include an air-permeable region that allows air to pass through but blocks objects greater than a threshold size. The threshold size can be defined by the size of the openings in air-permeable region. The effect generator can include a generator device that moves the wind, the generator device being a fan. The effect generation system can further include a control module coupled to the generator device, an energy storage device coupled to the control module, and an audio device coupled to the control module. The control module can include an on-off switch. The control module can include a processor and memory, the processor configured to execute instructions stored in the memory to coordinate operation of the generator device and the audio device using the energy storage device. The effect generation system can further include a wind tunnel formed of a first tunnel portion that splits into at least a second tunnel portion and a third tunnel portion at an intersection region; a diverter positioned at the intersection region, where the diverter is movable to divert wind from the first tunnel portion to at least one of the second tunnel portion or the third tunnel portion; and an interactive element positioned within at least one of the second tunnel portion and the third tunnel portion, the interactive element configured to interact with the wind to generate a visual effect.

[0009] In some embodiments, a method of operating an effect generation system includes obtaining an input signal at a control module coupled to a housing defining an interior region and associated with a structure having a construction according to a theme associated with a visual effect, and initiating an operation of a generator device disposed within the interior region that moves air at least partially within the interior region of the housing and out of the housing through an opening of the housing, wherethe air interacts with an effect component attached to the housing at the opening and constructed to appear and move in a way that imitates the visual effect in accordance with the theme of the structure.

[0010] The air can be moved through the opening of the housing along an exit direction, where the exit direction is at a non-zero angle with respect to a vertically upward direction originating from a center point of the opening when the housing is in a stationary position in accordance with the theme of the structure. The vertically upward direction can be orthogonal to and pointed away from a surface on which the effect generation system is positioned. The method can further include initiating an operation of an audio device disposed within the interior region that emits a sound in association with the visual effect associated with the theme. The initiation of the operation of the audio device can occur at a specified time with respect to the initiation of the generator device. The specified time can be configured so that the initiation of the operation of the audio device and the initiation of the generator device occur simultaneously. The specified time can be configured so that the initiation of the operation of the audio device occurs after the initiation of the generator device. The initiating an operation of the audio device can be in response to a first synchronization mode or a second synchronization mode, where the first synchronization mode is selected based on a first input and the second synchronization mode is selected based on a second input different form the first input.

[0011] A better understanding of the nature and advantages of embodiments of the present invention may be gained with reference to the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] A more detailed description may be had by reference to aspects of some illustrative implementations, some of which are shown in the accompanying drawings, so that the present disclosure can be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0013] FIG.1 is a simplified block diagram illustrating an example effect generation system, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG.2A is a simplified illustration of some example effect generation systems having housings that are associated with structures shaped and constructed according to different themes, and having effect components that are constructed according to visual effects associated with those different themes, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG.2B is a simplified illustration of some example effect generation systems, resting on surfaces, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG.3 is a simplified block diagram illustrating an example effect generation system having more detail than that shown in FIG.1, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG.4 is a simplified diagram of an energy generation system whose housing is shaped according to a rocket theme, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG.5 is a simplified, lengthwise, cross-sectional view diagram of an effect generation system including a housing that is shaped according to a rocket theme, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG.6A is a simplified diagram of an effect generation system including a module housing that is attached to a themed housing, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG.6B is a simplified diagram of an effect generation system including a module housing that is separated from a themed housing, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG.7 is a simplified, lengthwise, cross-sectional view diagram of an effect generation system configured as a self-contained unit that can be attached to a themed housing, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG.8 is a simplified, lengthwise, cross-sectional view diagram of an effect generation system having a module housing attached to a themed housing where at least a portion of the electrical components are implemented outside of the module housing and within the themed housing, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG.9 is a simplified diagram of an example effect generation system including a diverter and one or more interactive elements, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG.10 is a simplified diagram of an effect generation system having a housing associated with a structure shaped as a circle and including a diverter and interactive elements, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG.11 is a simplified diagram of an effect generation system having a housing associated with a structure shaped as a rectangle and including two diverters and interactive elements, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG.12 is a block diagram of a method of operating an effect generation system, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] According to common practice, various features shown in the drawings may not be illustrated to scale. As such, the dimensions of those features may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. Furthermore, some of the drawings may not depict all of the components of a given device or system. Moreover, similar reference numerals may be used to indicate similar features throughout the specification and figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] Details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the example embodiments shown in the drawings. However, it is to be appreciated that the drawings merely show some example aspects of the present disclosure and are not intended to be limiting. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other variants and / or effective aspects may not include all of the specific details described herein. Furthermore, well-known systems, components, devices, and circuits have not been described in extensive detail so as to not obscure more pertinent aspects of the example embodiments described herein.

[0029] FIG.1 is a simplified block diagram illustrating an example effect generation system 100, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Effect generation system 100 can include an effect generator 102, an effect component 104, and a housing 106. Effect generator 102 can be at least partially positioned within housing 106, and it can be configured to generate wind that exits out of housing 106.For instance, effect generator 102 can include a fan that rotates to move air to create the wind. Effect component 104 can be attached to housing 106 and positioned at an opening of housing 106 so that it can interact with the exiting wind to create a visual effect. In some embodiments, effect component 104 is formed of a deformable material, such as fabric, plastic, and the like that can flap and flutter to some degree when positioned in the exiting air. The flapping and fluttering of the decorated deformable material can create a stimulating visual effect.

[0030] According to some embodiments, housing 106 can be associated with a structure that is shaped according to a theme, and the effect component 104 interacting with the exiting wind to mimic the visual effect created can be constructed according to the visual effect associated with the theme. For example, housing 106 can have a shape according to a theme of vehicles, such as a rocket or a racecar, where each vehicle can be associated with a visual effect, e.g., rocket flame shooting out of an engine of the rocket, or exhaust fire shooting out of a tailpipe of the racecar. As such, effect component 104 can be constructed according to rocket flame or exhaust fire to mimic / animate the visual effect according to the theme of the structure associated with housing 106.

[0031] A theme as discussed herein can be a subject of the toy, such as a type or classification of an object (e.g., vehicle theme, animal theme, cartoon emotion theme, puzzle theme, educational theme, and any other conceivable theme suitable for such toys). In other words, the theme of the toy is an idea or concept that recurs or pervades in the overall structure, construction, function, and / or entire being of the toy. A visual effect as discussed herein can be any observable, dynamic action inherently associated with the theme / subject of the toy. The visual effect can be an abstracted / imitated version of a real-life dynamic action that is logically associated with the natural / intuitive movement, expulsion, emission, and animation of the themed toy.

[0032] FIG.2A is a simplified illustration of some example effect generation systems having housings that are associated with structures shaped and constructed according to different themes, and having effect components that are constructed and decorated according to visual effects associated with those different themes, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The different themes can be any suitable theme that is associated with a visual effect, such as a traveling object theme.

[0033] For instance, FIG.2A illustrates an effect generation system 200 having a housing 206 that is associated with a structure shaped according to a space vehicle theme, e.g., a rocket, space shuttle, and the like. Rockets travel to space using a rocket engine that is positioned at a posterior of the rocket body, and the rocket engine shoots flame to propel the rocket into space. The flame that is expelled from the rocket engine is the visual effect that is associated with the space vehicle theme of the structure associated with the housing. Accordingly, effect component 204 can be constructed according to the flame expelled from the rocket engine, and it can be positioned at a posterior end of the housing 206 at an opening 203 of housing 206 such that effect component 204 can flutter and flap as wind generated by a generator device 202 exits opening 203 along exit direction 207 (i.e., the direction at which the wind flows when exiting housing 206). The fluttering and flapping of effect component 204 can mimic / animate flame expelling from the rocket engine.

[0034] As another example, FIG.2A illustrates an effect generation system 210 having a housing 216 that is associated with a structure shaped according to a ground vehicle theme, e.g., a racecar, dragster, sports car, and the like. Racecars race around a track using a high-performance racing engine that shoots hot exhaust / flames out of its tailpipe as it races down the track. The hot exhaust / flames that are expelled from the racing engine is the visual effect that is associated with the ground vehicle theme of the structure associated with the housing. Accordingly, effect component 214 can be constructed according to the exhaust / flames expelled from the racing engine, and it can be positioned at a tailpipe of the housing 216 by an opening 213 of housing 216 such that effect component 214 can flutter and flap as wind generated by a generator device 212 exits opening 213 along exit direction 217 (i.e., the direction at which the wind flows when exiting housing 216). The fluttering and flapping of effect component 214 can mimic / animate hot exhaust / flame expelling from the racing engine.

[0035] As yet another example, FIG.2A illustrates an effect generation system 220 having a housing 226 that is associated with a structure shaped according to an air vehicle theme, e.g., a passenger plane, helicopter, private jet, fighter jet, and the like. Planes fly through the air using jet engines that can be positioned at a posterior and / or opposite sides of the plane body and / or under their wings, and the jet engines shoot hot exhaust / flames to propel the plane through the air. The flame that is expelled from thejet engine is the visual effect that is associated with the air vehicle theme of the structure associated with the housing. Accordingly, the structure associated with housing 226 can include two jet engines 228a and 228b, and respective effect components 224a and 224b can be constructed according to the exhaust / flames expelled from the jet engines. Openings 223a and 223b and effect components 224a and 224b can be positioned at a posterior end, lateral sides under the wings, or any logical location according to the construction of the vehicle, of the housing 226. Accordingly, effect components 224a and 224b can flutter and flap as wind generated by a generator device 222 exits openings 223a and 223b along exit directions 227a and 227b (i.e., the direction at which the wind flows when exiting housing 226). The fluttering and flapping of effect components 224a and 224b can mimic / animate hot exhaust / flames expelling from the jet engines.

[0036] Although not shown in FIG.2A, any of housings 206, 216, and 226 can include a structural extension, such as a handle or the like, that extends from its surface and functions as a handle so that the effect generation systems can be easier to hold. The handle can allow the user to wave the housing around at a distance from the user’s hand, which can add to the interactive experience. Furthermore, the handle can turn the effect generation system into a themed handheld fan that can blow air that not only generates visual effects as it interacts with the effect components, but also be used to cool the user (or other objects) down.

[0037] According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, an effect generation system can blow air out of its opening in a specific direction (i.e., an exit direction) when the effect generation system is stationary, e.g., resting on a flat surface. The exit direction (direction along which the air flows out of the opening) can be determined based on the theme of the structure associated with the housing. In some embodiments, the exit direction is at an angle (i.e., at a non-zero angle) with respect to the vertically upward direction. That is, the exit direction is in a different direction than the vertically upward direction. Accordingly, an exit direction that is not at an angle (i.e., at a zero angle) with respect to the vertically upward direction is an exit direction that is in the same direction as the vertically upward direction. By being in a different direction than the vertically upward direction, the visual effect created by the wind interacting with the effect component accurately mimics the visual effect of the themeof the structure and drastically improves the playability of the toy, as will be discussed further herein with respect to FIG.2B.

[0038] FIG.2B is a simplified illustration of some example effect generation systems, e.g., effect generation systems 200, 210, and 220 from FIG.2A, resting on surfaces 230 and 232, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Each surface 230 and 232 can be any surface upon which objects (e.g., a handheld toy, model of a real object, etc.) can be placed, such as a table top, floor, bench, couch, chair, and the like. In some embodiments, surface 230 can be a flat surface that does not have significant low or high spots. For ease of discussion, the example surface 230 shown in FIG. 2B is a flat surface that lies along the horizontal direction (e.g., perpendicular to the gravity direction 231); however, it is to be appreciated that embodiments are not limited to such configurations and that embodiments disclosed herein also apply to situations where surface 230 is not lying in the horizontal direction. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, a vertically upward direction 232 is a direction that is orthogonal 233 to and pointing upward and away from surface 230 when the effect generation system is positioned on top of surface 230.

[0039] As mentioned herein, wind exiting through an opening of a structure associated with a housing of an effect generation system can exit along an exit direction. The exit direction can be a direction of wind flow at the moment of exiting. For instance, the exit direction can be the direction of wind as it passes through the opening or immediately after exiting the opening of the housing. According to embodiments of the present disclosure, the exit direction of effect generation systems is different from (i.e., at a non-zero angle with respect to) the vertical direction extending from a reference origin. In other words, the vertical direction can be at a 0-degree angle and the exit direction can be at any non-zero angle with respect to the vertical direction.

[0040] For example, with reference to the rocket-themed structure of housing 206 of effect generation system 200, housing 206 can be in the stationary position. When in the stationary position, bottom of fins 205 (e.g., a portion of every fin 205 farthest away from the tip of the nose of the rocket-themed structure) may be contacting surface 230. This configuration conforms to the theme of the structure because rockets blast off into the air from an upright position on a surface (e.g., a launch platform) where the front of the rocket is pointing upward / away from the launch platform and the back of the rocketis pointing downward toward the launch platform. As a result, opening 203 may be positioned so that air exiting housing 206 flows in exit direction 207, which is shown as a vertically downward direction. Exit direction 207 can be oriented at an angle 209 with respect to vertically upward direction 232. For instance, as shown in FIG.2B, angle 209 is a non-zero angle of 180 degrees. Directions 232 and 207 can be oriented and positioned with respect to a reference point, such as a center point 236 of opening 203.

[0041] In another example, with reference to the racecar-themed structure of housing 216 of effect generation system 210, housing 216 can be in the stationary position. When in the stationary position, bottom of wheels 215 may be contacting surface 230. This configuration conforms to the theme of the structure because racecars race on a track by having its wheels contact the ground. The racecar can be facing forward such that the front of the racecar is pointing in the left direction and the back of the racecar is pointing to the right as shown in FIG.2B. An exhaust pipe 218 can be positioned at the back of the racecar so that hot exhaust can be expelled behind the racecar as it moves forward. As a result, opening 213 may be positioned so that air exiting housing 206 flows in exit direction 217, which is shown as a horizontally rightward direction. Exit direction 217 can be oriented at an angle 219 with respect to vertically upward direction 232. For instance, as shown in FIG.2B, angle 219 is a non-zero angle of 90 degrees. Directions 232 and 217 can be oriented and positioned with respect to a reference point, such as a center point 238 of opening 213.

[0042] In yet another example, with reference to the airplane-themed structure of housing 226 of effect generation system 220, housing 226 can be in the stationary position. When in the stationary position, bottom of wheels 225 may be contacting surface 230. This configuration conforms to the theme of the structure because airplanes take off on a tarmac by having its wheels contact the ground. The airplane can be facing forward such that the front of the airplane is pointing in the left direction and the back of the airplane is pointing to the right. A turbine engine 228a can be positioned under a wing of the airplane so that hot exhaust can be expelled behind the airplane wing as it propels the airplane forward. As a result, opening 223a may be positioned so that air exiting housing 226 flows in exit direction 227a, which is shown as a horizontally rightward direction. Exit direction 227a can be oriented at an angle 229 with respect to vertically upward direction 232. For instance, as shown in FIG.2B,angle 229 is a non-zero angle of 90 degrees. Directions 232 and 227a can be oriented and positioned with respect to a reference point, such as a center point 240 of opening 223a.

[0043] It is to be appreciated that the examples shown in FIG.2B are intended to help convey the core concepts behind embodiments herein and are not intended to be limiting. Any type of housing can have wind exiting in any other non-zero direction with respect to vertically upward direction 232. Configuring the structure associated with the housing and its opening in this manner results in an effect generation system that is accurately representative of a real object (e.g., rocket, racecar, airplane, etc.), thereby resulting in a more cohesive experience and an engaging, inspiring, and stimulating object (e.g., a handheld toy) with which a user can interact and play. Such configurations also provide a more cohesive object that is true to the real structure of the theme and to the physics / dynamics of the theme of objects that travel across land and air.

[0044] While a housing can be positioned in various ways when stationary, it is to be appreciated that a stationary position according to embodiments herein means a resting / static position on a surface that is consistent with the theme of the structure of the housing. In other words, while it may be physically possible for housing 206 to be positioned on its side such that a side surface of housing 206 and a side surface of a subset of fins 205 are contacting surface 230 when stationary, this position is not consistent with the theme of the structure of the housing given that rockets that blast off into space are positioned upright / vertically (not horizontally) in a launch position on a level surface. Furthermore, once the effect generation system is moved / moving, the energy generation system is no longer stationary and the exit direction can be any direction depending on its movement.

[0045] According to some embodiments, the wind exiting the housing provides insufficient thrust to physically propel the effect generation system forward. Instead, the amount of wind can be sufficient to cause flapping and fluttering of the effect component positioned within the wind. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the wind exiting the housing can provide enough thrust to propel the housing forward. In such embodiments, the housing may include a mechanism to minimize the amount of forceneeded to move the housing forward. For instance, the mechanism can be a set of wheels that allow the effect generation system to easily roll across a surface.

[0046] Although FIGS.2A-2B illustrate example effect generation systems having housings associated with a structure shaped according to different vehicle themes, it is to be appreciated that embodiments are not so limited. Any theme and any visual effect logically associated with the theme can be applicable to the present disclosure. For instance, the theme can be an animal theme (real or imaginary) where the housing is associated with a structure shaped as a horse or a unicorn and the effect component is constructed to mimic / animate the mane blowing in the wind. Or in another example, the theme can be a facial emotion theme where the housing is associated with a structure shaped as a cartoon character and certain emotions can be animated using the effect component, such as steam blowing out of the ears when the cartoon character is angry.

[0047] According to embodiments of the present disclosure, an effect generator and an effect component can be constructed and implemented with a housing in various ways to form a themed toy that can generate themed visual effects. The effect generator can include one or more components that can generate wind to interact with the effect component as the wind exits the housing. FIG.3 is a simplified block diagram illustrating an example effect generation system 300 having further detail than that shown in FIG.1, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] As shown in FIG.3, effect generation system 300 can include an effect generator 302, an effect component 304, and a housing 306. Similar to effect generator 102 in FIG.1, effect generator 302 can be at least partially positioned within housing 306, and it can be configured to generate wind that exits out of housing 306. According to some embodiments, effect generator 302 can include a control module 303, a generator device 305, and an energy storage device 307. Control module 303 can be any module suitable for controlling other components / devices. For instance, control module 303 can be a processor, system-on-chip (SOC), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA), and the like. Control module 303 can also include memory in which instructions are stored that can be executed by a processor to perform one or more methods discussed herein with respect to FIG.12. In some embodiments, control module 303 is, or can include, a switch component that is positioned at a surface of housing 306 so that a user can activate control module 303 toinitiate and cease operation of the functionality of effect generation system 300, e.g., to initiate and cease at least the generation of wind. The switch component can be an on- off switch component, a button, a latch, and / or any other suitable control switch.

[0049] Control module 303 can be coupled to generator device 305 and be configured to control generator device 305 to move air and generate wind. In some embodiments, generator device 305 can be any suitable device capable of moving air, such as a rotating fan, propeller, and the like. In some embodiments, generator device 305 can be powered by an electric motor. For example, generator device 305 is a rotating fan coupled to an electric motor that is configured to rotate the propeller to generate wind during operation of effect generator 302.

[0050] Although generator device 305 can be powered by an electric motor, embodiments are not so limited. In some embodiments, generator device 305 can be powered by hand. For instance, generator device 305 can be controlled by a user, such as, but not limited to, by enabling a user to pull a string to store energy that, when the string is released, causes the stored energy to spin a fan to generate wind, by enabling a user to press a button that applies force to cause a fan to generate wind, and / or by enabling a user to twist a tab to store energy that, when the tab is released, causes the stored energy to spin a fan to generate wind. In such embodiments, generator device 305 may not be controlled by control module 303. Instead, control module 303 may, in some embodiments, sense the operation of generator device 305 by the user and then operate other functionality of effect generation system 300 in a timed / synchronized manner, such as by triggering audio and / or lighting effects, as discussed further herein.

[0051] In some embodiments, generator device 305 can not only generate wind, but it can also generate motion. For example, generator device 305 can be a fan that generates wind but also include a gear that spins wheels of effect generation system 300. Such a generator device may be particularly applicable to effect generation systems that have themes associated with ground travel, such as a racecar theme. Thus, by operating generator device 305, wind can be generated to create a visual effect while also simultaneously causing generator device 305 to spin wheels to move the effect generation system along a surface on which it is positioned (e.g., driving forward).

[0052] Generator device 305 can, in some embodiments, not only be configured to generate wind to blow across effect component 304 to generate a visual effect as discussed herein, but it can be configured to generate a suction force that draws effect component 304 into housing 306. For instance, control module 303 can cause generator device 305 to rotate in a direction opposite of the direction that blows wind outside of housing 306 to create a suction force. Effect component 304 can be drawn into housing 306 and then the operation of generator device 305 can be stopped so that effect component 304 rests within housing 306. This may be particularly beneficial for instances where effect generation system 300 is no longer being interacted with by the user, such as when the system is being stored or resting on a surface until the next interaction session.

[0053] Control module 303 can also be coupled to energy storage device 307. Energy storage device 307 can be any suitable device capable of storing energy that can be later used to operate the various components within effect generation system 300, such as control module 303 and generator device 305. For instance, energy storage device 307 can be a battery, capacitor, or the like. When operating, energy storage device 307 can provide energy to generator device 305 so that generator device 305 can generate wind. In instances where housing 306 includes an extension, such as a handle, energy storage device 307 can be positioned within the extension for easier replacement and for better weight positioning to enable a more weight-balanced interactive experience.

[0054] According to some embodiments, effect generation system 300 can further include an audio device 309. Audio device 309 can be coupled to control module 303 so that control module 303 can initiate and cease operation of audio device 309. Audio device 309 can be any suitable device capable of generating sound, such as a speaker. The generated sound can be sound effects that are associated with the theme of effect generation system 300, e.g., with the theme of housing 306 and the themed visual effect displayed by effect component 304. In some embodiments, emission of sound can occur at the same instance of time at which the wind is generated, or it can emit sound at a different instance of time. As an example of sound and wind being initiated at the same time for an effect generation system configured as a rocket, sounds of fire shooting out of the rocket engine can be initiated at the same instance of time at which the wind begins to be generated, thereby mimicking how an actual rocket looks andsounds as it launches and / or soars through the air. In some embodiments, the sound emitted by audio device 309 can be specifically constructed to complement the sounds created by generator device 305, such that their combination of sounds forms a multi- dimensional sound profile that more accurately mimics the sound effect of the theme. As an example of sound and wind being initiated at different times for the effect generation system configured as a rocket, sounds of a countdown, e.g., someone speaking “3, 2, 1…liftoff” can first be initiated before the wind is generated, and then generation of wind can be initiated right after “liftoff” is played to mimic the rocket launching along with the generation of sounds of fire shooting out of the rocket engine. As another example, control module 303 can first initiate operation of generator device 305 to create the sound of wind flowing and then initiate audio device 309 afterward to intensify the generated sound to mimic the rocket engine building up thrust with or without a subsequent gradual increase in audio volume / intensity from audio device 309.

[0055] In some embodiments, input of control module 303 can determine what audio is played and what synchronization mode is selected. For instance, a single press of a button can select a countdown synchronization mode where an audio countdown is played first and then when the countdown is over, the wind can be generated by the generator device (with or without a synchronized playing of engine blasting sounds). However, a double press (two successive presses withing a threshold period of time, such as within 1 second) of a button can select an action synchronization mode where there is no audio countdown played; instead, there is a simultaneous initiation of the generator device to generate wind and the playing of engine blasting sounds. This user input modality allows the effect generation system to provide additional flexibility in its playability by allowing the user to skip the countdown if he / she would like to go straight to flying the effect generation system. It is to be appreciated that the single button press and double button press example is merely an example and that other configurations of different inputs for the first synchronization mode and the second synchronization mode are envisioned herein without departing from spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0056] Audio device 309 can be configured to operate according to such configurations, or control module 303 can be programmed to synchronize the operation of generator device 305 with audio device 309 to result in this synchronized operation.In some embodiments, the sound played by audio device 309 can be programmed / recorded before reaching the user, such as during manufacturing. In some additional and alternative embodiments, the sound played by audio device 309 can be recorded by the user. For instance, the user can press a button and record sounds in his or her environment, such as sound effects of a countdown (spoken by the user or another audio source), rocket ignition, the sound of a racecar engine, or any other audio that the user may desire to use. The recorded sounds can then be played back in synchronization with the operation of the generator device to generate wind to create the visual effect when blown across the effect component.

[0057] Although FIG.3 illustrates control module 303, generator device 305, energy storage device 307, and audio device 309 as being within the block of effect generator 302, it should not be interpreted to mean that those components are always physically within a separate compartment of housing 306. Rather, any of those components can be integrated within housing 306 and separate from any structure / housing of effect generator 302.

[0058] Similar to housing 106 and effect component 104, housing 306 can be associated with a structure that is shaped according to a theme, and the effect component 304 interacting with the exiting wind can be constructed according to a visual effect associated with the theme. For example, housing 306 can have a shape according to a theme of vehicles, such as a rocket or a racecar, where each vehicle can be associated with a visual effect, e.g., rocket flame shooting out of an engine of the rocket, or exhaust fire shooting out of a tailpipe of the racecar. As such, effect component 304 can be constructed according to rocket flame or exhaust fire to mimic / animate the visual effect according to the theme of the structure associated with housing 306.

[0059] Effect component 304 can be attached to housing 306 and positioned at an opening of housing 306 so that it can interact with the exiting wind to create the themed visual effect. In some embodiments, effect component 304 can be configured different ways to create various visual effects. For instance, effect component 304 can be configured to include a mechanical effect component 310 that can use mechanical movement to create visual effects. An example of such a mechanical effect component 310 is a piece of deformable material, such as fabric, plastic, and the like that can flapand flutter to some degree when positioned in moving air. Mechanical effect component 310 can be constructed according to the visual effect associated with the theme, such as rocket engine flame or racecar exhaust flame. The flapping and fluttering of the decorated deformable material can create a stimulating visual effect.

[0060] Additionally or alternatively, effect component 304 can be configured to include an electrical effect component 312 that can interact with an electrical effect device 313 in effect generator 302 to create visual effects. For instance, electrical effect device 313 can be a light emitter, e.g., an LED, that can emit light, and electrical effect component 312 can be a light reflector that can reflect at least a portion of light emitted from electrical effect device 313. The emitted light can be white or colored light that is selected and constructed according to the theme, such as red, orange, and yellow for rocket engine flame. The emitted light can be light emitted at a constant brightness / intensity, or the emitted light can be patterned light that varies in brightness / intensity to more accurately mimic the themed visual effect and / or to simply create a more stimulating visual effect. In some embodiments, electrical effect device 313 can be positioned / implemented within or on housing 306 such that light emitted from electrical effect device 313 is at least partially emitted on at least a portion of effect component 304, such as on electrical effect component 312. Electrical effect component 312 can be positioned / implemented on mechanical effect component 312 so that movement of mechanical effect component 310 can result in a corresponding movement of electrical effect component 312 to create a dynamic reflection of light emitted from electrical effect device 313. Light emitted on mechanical effect component 310 and / or electrical effect component 312 by electrical effect device 313 can further add to the visual stimulation and accuracy of the visual effect. In some embodiments, mechanical effect component 310 can include reflective patches / features that reflect the light emitted on mechanical component 310 more effectively than mechanical components without reflective patches / features.

[0061] As mentioned herein, a housing of the effect generation system can be associated with a structure that is shaped according to a theme. This association can occur in different ways. For instance, the association can occur in a way where the housing itself is of a structure that is shaped according to a theme, or the association can occur in a way where the housing is attached to, and in some instances separable from, astructure that is shaped according to a theme. In embodiments where the association occurs by way of attachment, the effect generation system can be its own separate module with its own module housing that includes a toy interface feature 314 for attaching to the structure shaped according to the theme. Toy interface feature 314 can be an interface that physically secures effect generation system 300 to the themed housing by way of a corresponding effect interface feature 316 on the themed housing, such as a male-to-female attachment mechanism or a chemical attachment like an adhesive. In some embodiments, toy interface feature 314 can also be an interface that electrically couples the effect generation system to the themed housing by directly interfacing with effect interface feature 316. That way, electrical components within the themed housing but outside of the module housing of the effect generation system can be electrically coupled to electrical components within the module housing. Details of effect generation systems having these different structural associations are discussed further herein with respect to FIGS.4-8.

[0062] FIG.4 is a simplified diagram of an energy generation system 400 whose housing 406 is shaped according to a theme, such as a rocket, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Certain components in effect generation system 400 in FIG.4 have reference numerals that match the reference numerals of corresponding components in effect generation system 300 in FIG.3 to indicate that the purpose, configuration, and operation of these components are substantially similar. Thus, details of these components in FIG.4 can be referenced from the disclosure with respect to at least FIG.3 and that reiteration of the functions and operation of these components is not repeated for clarity and brevity.

[0063] As shown in FIG.4, control module 303, generator device 305, energy storage device 307, and audio device 309 can be integrated within housing 406 that is shaped according to the rocket theme. Wind generated by generator device 305 can exit an opening 405 of housing 406 to interact with effect component 304 to generate a themed visual effect. One example of how these devices can be implemented in effect generation system 300 is discussed herein with respect to FIG.5.

[0064] FIG.5 is a simplified, lengthwise, cross-sectional view diagram of an effect generation system 500 including a housing 506 that is shaped according to a rocket theme, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The effect generatorof effect generation system 500 can be integrated within the structure of housing 506 such that it does not form its own module that is separable from housing 506. Housing 506 can form an internal cavity 512 in which various components are positioned. For instance, an electronic component system 508 and a generator device 505 (shown as a conventional fan) can be positioned within internal cavity 512. Electric component system 508 and generator device 505 together can form the effect generator of effect generation system 500. Electronic component system 508 can include one or more electronic devices of the effect generator, such as a control module, energy storage device, and an audio device, as discussed herein with respect to effect generator 302 in FIG.3 and 402 in FIG.4.

[0065] Electronic component system 508 and generator device 505 can be fixed to surfaces within internal housing 506. For example, electronic component system 508 can be fixed to housing 506 and generator device 505 can be fixed to an internal surface 507. Internal surface 507 can be an internal extension of housing 506 that is rigidly fixed to housing 506 via an adhesive or a mechanical connection, or is a monolithic extension of housing 506. In some embodiments, internal surface 507 is a cylindrical tube in which generator device 505 is positioned so that wind generated by generator device 505 can be efficiently directed along the axis of internal surface 507 and out of an opening 510 toward effect component 504 for creating a themed visual effect. The diameter of internal surface 507 can be slightly larger than the diameter of the fan of generator device 505. In some embodiments, internal surface 507 can be part of generator device 505 that is fixed to housing 506. That is, generator device 505 can include a fan within a structure, where the structure forms internal surface 507 or is a separate structure that attaches to internal surface 507 of housing 506.

[0066] In some embodiments, the diameter of internal surface 507 can vary from one end to the other to generate stronger wind out of housing 506. For instance, the diameter can be greater at a first end than a second end and can decrease and / or increase in diameter from the first end to the second end. As an example, generator device 505 can be positioned between a first end of internal surface 507 and a second end of internal surface 507, where the second end is closer to opening 510 than the first end. In this example, the diameter of internal surface 507 can be greater at the first end than thesecond end, and the diameter can gradually change between the first end and the second end.

[0067] In some embodiments, air-permeable surfaces can be implemented in effect generation system 500 to allow air, but not objects greater than a threshold size, to pass through surfaces. For instance, air-permeable surface 513 can be positioned within housing 506 at one end of internal surface 507, and air-permeable surface 514 can be positioned at an opposite end of internal surface 507, such as at opening 510 of housing 506. Air-permeable surface 513 can allow air to flow during operation while preventing objects, such as than fingers, debris, and the like from contacting generator device 505. In some embodiments, the perforation openings of air-permeable surface 513 can be less than a threshold size. In some embodiments, the threshold size can be between 0.3 to 5 mm., particularly between 0.5 to 3 mm, or any other suitable threshold size that prevents unintended objects from contacting generator device 505.

[0068] Air-permeable surfaces 513 and 514 can be formed of any suitable material having one or more openings through which air can travel. For instance, surfaces 513 and 514 can be formed of metal mesh, plastic mesh, perforated metal, perforated plastic, porous fabric, and the like. In some embodiments, air-permeable surfaces 513 and 514 are formed of the same material, such as metal mesh. Alternatively, air-permeable surfaces 513 and 514 can be formed of different materials. For instance, air-permeable surface 513 can be formed of metal mesh, and air-permeable surface 514 can be formed of perforated plastic, such that the perforated plastic can have similar properties to housing 506, which can also be formed of plastic, so that surface 514 can blend better with housing 506. Although FIG.5 illustrates effect generation system 500 as including air-permeable surface 513, embodiments are not limited to such configurations. In some embodiments, effect generation system 500 may not include air-permeable surface 513, but rather have an unobstructed opening through which air can travel.

[0069] Although internal surface 507 is illustrated as a cylinder, embodiments are not so limited. It is to be appreciated that any suitable surface can be implemented to achieve the functionality of directing wind out of opening 510. For example, a donut shaped disk 516 illustrated as dotted lines in FIG.5 can be positioned around air- permeable surface 512 to generally separate a subregion of internal cavity 512 on one side of generator device 505 from another subregion of internal cavity 512 on anopposite side of generator device 505. Disk 516 can be oriented parallel or planar to air- permeable surface 513. This separation can improve the efficiency at which generated wind is directed out of opening 510 toward effect component 504 to create the themed visual effect. Improved wind directing efficiency can allow a lower power generator device to provide sufficient wind to create the themed visual effect.

[0070] Furthermore, in some embodiments, internal surface 507 can be, or include, a bent tube that extends from an internal surface of housing 506 and directs wind along a non-linear pathway through internal cavity 512 and out of opening 510. For instance, effect generation system 500 can include air routing walls 521 within internal cavity 512. Air routing walls 521 can be tunnels or other types of air passage ways for effectively and efficiently routing air 520 between air permeable regions 518a-c and opening 510. Air routing walls 521 can be smooth surfaces that enable swift movement of air 520. Air routing walls 521 can be extensions of housing 506 such that housing 506 and air routing walls 521 form a monolithic structure. Alternatively, air routing walls 521 can be at least partially formed of a separate structure that can be attached to housing 506. Air routing walls 521 would allow a more efficient drawing of air into housing 506 and would focus the air flow within internal cavity 512 to improve air flow efficiency. They would also allow generator device 505 to be placed in various locations within housing 506. For example, generator device 505 can be positioned within air routing walls 521 on an inner surface of housing 506, overlapping with an opening or an air-permeable region through which air from outside 506 can enter into housing 506 due to air movement caused by generator device 505.

[0071] In some embodiments, housing 506 can further include air-permeable regions 518a-c, which can be similar to air-permeable surfaces 513 and 514 in that it can allow air, but not objects, to pass through housing 506. Air-permeable regions 518a-c can be regions of housing 506 that are permeable to air, so that air 520 from the environment can enter into internal cavity 512. In some embodiments, one or more air-permeable regions 518a-c can be areas of housing 506 that are perforated yet made from the same material so that they blend into the overall look and feel of housing 506. For instance, one or more air-permeable regions 518a-c can be a perforated panel of a rocket housing that is positioned amongst many panels of the rocket housing, where the perforated panel and the other panels are made from the same material. In some additionalembodiments, one or more air-permeable regions 518a-c can be formed of a material different from housing 506, but are made from a perforated material that blends well into the overall look and feel of housing 506. As an example, one or more air- permeable regions 518 can be a metal mesh region of housing 506 such that it appears to be a metal mesh structural feature of a racecar, such as a front grill and side air inlets.

[0072] Air-permeable regions 518a-c can be strategically positioned at areas of housing 506 so that simultaneous occlusion of all air-permeable regions 518a-c is minimized. For instance, air-permeable regions 518a-c can be positioned at different areas of housing 506 so that if one or more air-permeable regions 518a-c are completely occluded by the user’s hand, there is at least one or more other air-permeable regions 518a-c that are not occluded. As shown in FIG.5, air-permeable region 518a can be positioned at the tip region of housing 506, whereas air-permeable regions 518b-c can be positioned at the side regions of housing 506, either as separate patches or as a ring of perforations extending around a circumference of housing 506. In some embodiments, one or more air permeable regions can be positioned around opening 510, as shown in FIG.7 herein. The one or more air permeable regions can be formed of perforated material or it can be an unobstructed opening through which air can flow. Although FIG.5 illustrates three air-permeable regions 518a-c, it is to be appreciated that embodiments are not limited to such configurations, and that effect generation systems having more or less air-permeable regions in different areas of housing 506 are envisioned herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0073] A better understanding of how the components of effect generation system 500 operate can be realized through a discussion of its overall operation in light of the illustration in FIG.5. To initiate operation, a control module within electronic component system 508 can generate a signal in response to an input, such as a user pressing a button or flipping a switch. The signal can initiate operation of an audio device within electronic component system 508 and / or initiate operation of generator device 505, as discussed herein with respect to FIG.3. Operation of generator device 505 causes movement of air through internal cavity 512. For instance, air 520 from outside of housing 506 can be drawn into internal cavity 512 through housing 506 via air-permeable regions 518a-c. Air 520 can flow through internal cavity 512 and be drawn through air-permeable surface 513 and across generator device 505. Then, air520 can be blown through air-permeable surface 514 and out of opening 510 so that exited air 522 can blow across effect component 504 to create the themed visual effect, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIGS.6A-6B illustrate simplified diagrams of an energy generation system 600 including a module housing 606 that is formed as a separate unit and attachable to a themed housing 609 that is shaped according to a theme, such as a rocket, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG.6A is a simplified diagram of effect generation system 600 where module housing 606 is attached to themed housing 609, and FIG.6B is a simplified diagram of effect generation system 600 where module housing 606 is separated from themed housing 609, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Certain components in effect generation system 600 in FIG.6A have reference numerals that match the reference numerals of corresponding components in effect generation system 300 in FIG.3 to indicate that the structure, configuration, and operation of these components are substantially similar. Thus, details of these components in FIG.6A can be referenced from the disclosure with respect to at least FIG.3 and that reiteration of the functions and operation of these components is not repeated for clarity and brevity.

[0075] As shown in FIG.6A, control module 303, generator device 305, energy storage device 307, and audio device 309 of an effect generator 602 can be integrated within module housing 606 that is attached to themed housing 609, which can be shaped according to the rocket theme. Module housing 606 can be both mechanically attached and electrically coupled to themed housing 609 via respective interface features 314 and 316. As shown in FIG. 6B, themed housing 609 can include a module cavity 607 within which module housing 606 can be inserted and attached to themed housing 609. In some embodiments, themed housing 609 can be an empty shell without electronic components (in which case all of the electronic components are housed within and / or attached to module housing 606), or it can contain at least one or more of components 303, 305, 307, and 309 within it. Whichever components are housed in themed housing 609, the remaining components can be housed within module housing 606, such that the combined operation of module housing 606 and themed housing 609 can enable the full operation of effect generation system 600. With reference back to FIG.6A, wind generated by generator device 305 can exit an opening 605 of module housing 606 tointeract with effect component 604 to generate a themed visual effect, according to embodiments of the present disclosure. One example of how these devices can be implemented in effect generation system 600 is discussed in further detail herein with respect to FIG.7.

[0076] FIG.7 is a simplified, lengthwise, cross-sectional view diagram of an effect generation system 700 configured as a self-contained unit that can be attached to a themed housing (not shown), according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Certain components in effect generation system 700 in FIG.7 have reference numerals that match the reference numerals of corresponding components in effect generation system 500 in FIG.5 to indicate that the structure, configuration, and operation of these components are substantially similar. Thus, details of these components in FIG. 7 can be referenced from the disclosure with respect to at least FIG.5 and that reiteration of the functions and operation of these components is not repeated for clarity and brevity.

[0077] As shown in FIG.7, effect generation system 700 can be a self-contained unit that is attachable to and separable from a themed housing (not shown here, but one example is shown in FIG.6A as themed housing 609). Effect generation system 700 can include a module housing 706 that may not be shaped according to a theme, but rather, shaped to have simple surfaces to more easily and sufficiently fit and attach to a cavity of a themed housing. Module housing 706 can form an internal cavity 712 in which various components are positioned. For instance, an electronic component system 508 and a generator device 505 (shown as a conventional fan) can be positioned within internal cavity 712. Electronic component system 508 and generator device 505 together can form the effect generator of effect generation system 700. Electronic component system 508 can include one or more electronic devices of the effect generator, such as a control module, energy storage device, and an audio device, as discussed herein with respect to effect generator 302 in FIG.3 and 602 in FIG.6A.

[0078] Electronic component system 508 and effect generator 505 can be fixed to surfaces within module housing 706. For example, electronic component system 508 can be fixed to housing 706 and effect generator 505 can be fixed to an internal surface 507, which can be an internal extension of housing 706 that is rigidly fixed to housing 706 via an adhesive or a mechanical connection, or is a monolithic extension of housing 706, as discussed herein with respect to FIG.5. Furthermore, similar to effectgeneration system 500 in FIG.5, effect generation system 700 can also include air- permeable surfaces 513 and 514 that have the same structure, function, and purpose as discussed herein with respect to FIG.5.

[0079] In some embodiments, module housing 706 can further include air-permeable regions 718a-b, which can be similar to air-permeable surfaces 513 and 514 in that it can allow air, but not objects, to pass through housing 706. Air-permeable regions 718a-c can be regions of housing 706 that are permeable to air, so that air 720 from the environment can enter into internal cavity 712. In some embodiments, one or more air- permeable regions 718a-b can be areas of housing 706 that are perforated yet made from the same material so that they blend into the overall look and feel of module housing 706 and / or the themed housing. For instance, one or more air-permeable regions 718a-b can be a perforated panel around the rocket engine of the rocket housing that appears to be part of the rocket engine, where the perforated panel and rocket engine are made of the same material. In some additional embodiments, one or more air-permeable regions 718a-b can be formed of a material different from housing 706, but are made from a perforated material that blends well into the overall look and feel of module housing 706 and / or the themed housing. As an example, one or more air-permeable regions 718a-b can be a metal mesh region of housing 706 such that it appears to be a metal mesh structural feature of a racecar. In some additional or alternative embodiments, one or more air-permeable regions 718a-b can be an unobstructed opening defined by housing 706 such that a perforated panel is not present.

[0080] A better understanding of how the components of effect generation system 700 operate can be realized through a discussion of its overall operation in light of the illustration in FIG.7. To initiate operation, a control module within electronic component system 508 can generate a signal in response to an input, such as a user pressing a button or flipping a switch. The signal can initiate operation of an audio device within electronic component system 508 and / or initiate operation of generator device 505, as discussed herein with respect to FIG.3. Operation of generator device 505 causes movement of air through internal cavity 712. For instance, air 720 from outside of module housing 706 can be drawn into internal cavity 712 through housing 706 via air-permeable regions 718a-b. Air 720 can flow through internal cavity 712 and be drawn through air-permeable surface 513 (or an unobstructed opening) and acrossgenerator device 505. Then, air 720 can be blown through air-permeable surface 514 (or an unobstructed opening) and out of opening 710 so that exited air 722 can blow across effect component 504 to create the themed visual effect, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0081] Given that effect generation system 700 is a self-contained unit in its own module housing 706, air-permeable regions 718a-c can be strategically positioned at areas of module housing 506 that are exposed to the environment even after module housing 706 is attached to a themed housing so that air can still enter internal cavity 712 without implementation of air-permeable regions in the themed housing. For instance, air-permeable regions 718a-b can be positioned at a region of module housing 706 around opening 710. To mitigate suction of effect component 504 against the surface of air-permeable regions 718a-b during operation, a shield 725 can be implemented over at least a portion of air-permeable regions 718a-b and between air-permeable regions 718a-b and effect component 504. Although FIG.7 illustrates two air-permeable regions 718a-b, it is to be appreciated that embodiments are not limited to such configurations, and that effect generation systems having more or less air-permeable regions in different areas of housing 706 are envisioned herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For example, air-permeable regions 718a- b as shown can be cross sections of separate patches or a single ring of perforations.

[0082] In some embodiments, effect generation system 700 can further include an interface mechanism 724 positioned at a surface of module housing 706. Interface mechanism 724 can mechanically attach module housing 706 to the themed housing with or without a corresponding interface mechanism on the themed housing. For instance, interface mechanism 724 can be a male / female connection, screw threading, adhesive, clip, and the like.

[0083] It is to be appreciated that even though effect generation system 700 is shown as a self-contained unit, embodiments are not limited to such configurations. For instance, one or more components of electronic component system 508 can be implemented outside of module housing 706 and within a themed housing in which module housing 706 can be positioned. In such situations, interface mechanism 724 can, in addition to mechanical coupling, electrically couple electrical components in module housing 706 with electrical components outside of module housing 706 withinthe themed housing. As an example, interface mechanism 724 can include a contact pad, contact pin, male / female connector, and the like. Furthermore, air-permeable regions 718a-b can be implemented on the themed housing such that at least some external air can first enter into the themed housing before entering into module housing 706 and out of opening 710. Further detail with respect to this configuration is discussed herein with respect to FIG.8.

[0084] FIG.8 is a simplified, lengthwise, cross-sectional view diagram of an effect generation system 800 having a module housing 806 attached to a themed housing 809 where at least a portion of the electrical components are implemented outside of module housing 806 and within themed housing 809, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Certain components in effect generation system 800 in FIG.8 have reference numerals that match the reference numerals of corresponding components in effect generation systems 500 in FIG.5 and 700 in FIG.7 to indicate that the structure, configuration, and operation of these components are substantially similar. Thus, details of these components in FIG.8 can be referenced from the disclosure with respect to at least FIG.5 and that reiteration of the functions and operation of these components is not repeated for clarity and brevity.

[0085] As shown in FIG.8, effect generation system 800 can include an effect generator formed of at least generator device 505 and an electronic component system 808. Electronic component system 808 can include one or more electronic devices of the effect generator, such as a control module, energy storage device, and an audio device, as discussed herein with respect to effect generator 302 in FIG.3. In some embodiments, electronic component system 808 may not include all of the electronic components that form the effect generator. Instead, another electronic component system 810 outside of module housing 806 can include electronic components of the effect generator that are not already included in electronic component system 808 such that the combined presence of electronic component systems 808 and 810 form a complete effect generator. In such cases, electronic component systems 808 and 810 can each be fixed to different surfaces. For example, electronic component system 808 can be fixed to a surface of module housing 806 and electronic component system 810 can be fixed to a surface of themed housing 809 as shown in FIG.8. Accordingly, effect generation system 800 can be formed by the combination of components that arepart of module housing 806 and components that are part of themed housing 809 outside of module housing 806. Electrical communication between electronic component systems 808 and 810 can be formed through interfacing mechanism 724 that may function as both a mechanical attachment and electrical communication interface between respective components within module housing 806 and themed housing 809.

[0086] Any combination of components of the effect generator can be divided between the two separate electronic component systems 808 and 810. For instance, an energy storage device, a control module, and an audio device can be implemented in electronic component system 810 fixed to themed housing 809, whereas the audio device can be implemented as part of electronic component system 810. This is may make it easier for the user to replace depleted batteries as well as initiate functionality of effect generation system 800, e.g., by pressing a button on themed housing 809.

[0087] It is to be appreciated that embodiments are not limited to such configurations where electronic components are formed in combined electronic component systems 808 and 810, and that some embodiments can be configured such that only one of the electronic component systems are implemented in effect generation system 800. For instance, electronic component system 808 can include all of the necessary electrical components to form a functional effect generation system 800, in which case electronic component system 810 may not be implemented. Alternatively, the opposite may be implemented in some embodiments as well, where electronic component system 810 is implemented and that electronic component system 808 is not. Implementing all, or a vast majority, of the electrical components in electronic component system 808 can improve versatility of the system in that various different types of themed housings (without any electronic component or with only a simple control module like an on / off switch) can be easily swapped. That way, a single system can be quickly modified to form a completely differently themed toy.

[0088] In some embodiments, themed housing 809 can further include air-permeable regions 518a-c, which can be similar to air-permeable surfaces 513 and 514 in that it can allow air, but not objects, to pass through themed housing 809. Air-permeable regions 518a-c can be regions of housing 506 that are permeable to air, so that air 820 from the environment can enter into internal cavity 812 of themed housing 809. Further details of air-permeable regions 518a-c and air-permeable surfaces 513 and 514 can bereference herein with respect to FIG.5. In some embodiments, a cavity 807 of themed housing 809 in which module housing 806 is positioned can include an air-permeable surface 811 at a base of cavity 807. Air-permeable surface 811 can have similar construction and functionality as air-permeable surfaces 513 and 514. Air-permeable surface 811 can allow air to exit out of themed housing 809 and into module housing 806 during operation of effect generation system 800. In some embodiments, air may not need to flow through internal cavity 812. Accordingly, air permeable surfaces 518a- c and / or 811 may not be constructed. Instead, air can just flow through cavity 807 from air permeable regions (or unobstructed openings) positioned around opening 813, as discussed herein with respect to FIG.7.

[0089] During operation of effect generation system 800, generator device 505 causes movement of air through internal cavity 812. For instance, air 820 from outside of themed housing 809 can be drawn into internal cavity 812 through themed housing 809 via air-permeable regions 518a-c. Air 820 can flow through internal cavity 812 and be drawn out of themed housing 809 through air-permeable surface 811 into cavity 807 and then into module housing 806 through air-permeable surface 513 and across generator device 505. Then, air 820 can be blown through air-permeable surface 514 and out of opening 813 so that exited air 822 can blow across effect component 504 to create the themed visual effect, according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0090] Although embodiments describe effect generation systems having housings associated with structures shaped according to themes that have complex constructions, like vehicle themes, embodiments are not so limited. For example, a theme can be a book theme, disk theme, geometric shape theme or a generic learning theme where the shape is more geometric in its overall structure than it is complex, like a circle, square, rectangle, and the like. In some embodiments, such effect generation systems may further include diverters and interactive elements that enhance the user and learning experience, as will be discussed further herein with respect to FIGS.9-11.

[0091] FIG.9 is a simplified diagram of an example effect generation system 900 including a diverter 902 and one or more interactive elements 904, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Certain components in effect generation system 900 in FIG.9 have reference numerals that match the reference numerals of corresponding components in effect generation system 300 in FIG.3 to indicate that thestructure, configuration, and operation of these components are substantially similar. Thus, details of these components in FIG.9 can be referenced from the disclosure with respect to at least FIG.3 and that reiteration of the functions and operation of these components is not repeated for clarity and brevity.

[0092] As shown in FIG.9, effect generation system 900 includes diverter 902 and interactive element 904 within a housing 906. Diverter 902 can be a component that modifies the direction of wind flow from generator device 305 between a network of wind tunnels. For instance, diverter 902 can be a type of flap that can be positioned in various ways to change the direction of wind flow between two or more wind tunnels within housing 906. Diverter 902 can be manipulated by a user via an external interaction mechanism.

[0093] In some embodiments, interactive element 904 can be positioned within a wind tunnel so that it can interact with the flowing wind to generate a visual effect. Interactive element 904 can be any suitable wind-interactable component, such as a free-spinning propeller, spiral, ribbon, and the like. Interactive element 904 can be vibrantly colored with reflective patches or constructions that enhance its visual display when it interacts with the wind flowing through the wind tunnel. In some embodiments, effect generation system 900 includes more than one wind tunnel arranged in a network of wind tunnels, where each wind tunnel includes at least one interactive element 904. Diverter 902 can be positioned and configured to divert wind flow between the network of wind tunnels so that selective interactive elements 904 can be activated via interaction with the wind flow.

[0094] Once the wind makes its way through the network of wind tunnels, it can exit housing 906 out of one or more openings to interact with one or more effect components 304 for further generating a visual effect that is associated with the theme of the structure associated with housing 906. The structure of housing 906 can be at least partially transparent so that interactive element 904 can be seen by the user through housing 906. Being able to see interactive element 904 not only may be entertaining given its colorful / dynamic visual display, but it can also give the user an understanding of where the wind is currently flowing. For instance, if a first interactive element is interacting with the wind but a second interactive element is not, then it can be conveyed to the user that, based on the position / orientation of diverter 902, wind isbeing directed through the wind tunnel within which the first interactive element is positioned and not through the wind tunnel within which the second interactive element is positioned. Given a network of wind tunnels and a collection of diverters and corresponding interactive elements, effect generation system 900 can result in an interactive and / or educational device that is not only fun, but also a tool that can help teach the concepts of wind forces, cause-and-effect, problem solving, and a variety of other cognitive skills.

[0095] As mentioned herein, housing 906 can be associated with a structure shaped according to a theme, such as a vehicle theme. In some embodiments, however, the structure can be shaped according to an educational theme and can thus be more simply shaped, e.g., it can have a substantially geometric shape, such as a circle, rectangle, square, triangle, hexagon, octagon, etc., and can include one or more diverters and one or more interactive elements as will be discussed further herein with respect to FIG.10.

[0096] FIG.10 is a simplified diagram of an effect generation system 1000 having a housing 1002 associated with a structure shaped as a circle and including a diverter 1004 and interactive elements 1006a-c, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Effect generation system 1000 can include wind tunnels 1008a-d through which wind generated by a generator device 1010 can flow. In some embodiments, interactive elements 1006a-c can be positioned within respective wind tunnels 1008a-c and generator device 1010 can be positioned within wind tunnel 1008d. In some embodiments, wind tunnels 1008a-d are arranged so that wind can travel through them. As an example, wind tunnels 1008a-d can be arranged in an intersecting manner, such as a cross, as shown in FIG.10. It is to be appreciated that the presence and flow of wind is illustrated as a set of arrows 1009 and not every set of arrows is numbered to minimize cluttering of the figure.

[0097] In some embodiments, diverter 1004 can be positioned at the intersection location / region of wind tunnels 1008-d such that the position of diverter 1000 determines whether wind flows into one wind tunnel or another. In some embodiments, diverter 1004 can rotate around its center axis and / or translate between more than one location so that wind from generator device 1010 can be diverted into one or more of wind tunnels 1008a-c. For example, diverter 1004 can rotate around its central axis so that it can be oriented in a first position 1012a or a second position 1012b, both ofwhich are shown as grey solid lines. In first position 1012a, wind from generator device 1010 can be diverted from wind tunnel 1008d into wind tunnel 1008c; and in second position 1012b, wind from generator device 1010 can be diverted from wind tunnel 1008d into wind tunnel 1008a. Furthermore, diverter 1004 can translate in position so that it can be located in a third position 1014a or a fourth position 1014b, both of which are also shown as grey solid lines. In third position 1014a, wind from generator device 1010 can be diverted from wind tunnel 1008d into wind tunnels 1008b-c; and in fourth position 1014b, wind from generator device 1010 can be diverted from wind tunnel 1008d into wind tunnels 1008a-b.

[0098] Diverter 1004 can be formed of any suitable structure having a shape and hardness suitable for diverting wind into wind tunnels 1008a-c. For instance, diverter 1004 can be a rectangular plate of plastic centered around a pole so that it can freely spin around the pole. However, it is to be appreciated that embodiments are not limited to such configurations and that diverter 1004 can be configured in various ways to divert the wind flow. For example, diverter 1004 can be any suitable valve configured to divert wind flow, or diverter 1004 can be formed of two rectangular plates individually controllable by the user so that wind tunnels 1008a and 1008c can be blocked to allow wind to travel from wind tunnel 1008d to 1008b. Diverter 1004 can be locked into each position any suitable way. For instance, magnets on diverter 1004 can attract to corresponding magnets on edges of wind tunnels 1008a-d, or latches (or other mechanical form of attachment) can mechanically lock diverter 1004 in place.

[0099] Diverter 1004 can be controllable by the user from outside of housing 1002. For example, any suitable input device, such as a switch, button, lever, magnet, etc. can cause diverter 1004 to move into any of positions 1012a-b and 1014a-b. In some instances, an external magnet can manipulate the position of diverter 1004 through housing 1002 without the need for additional openings. In other instances, a button or switch can cause an electrical motor to move diverter 1004. In yet other instances, diverter 1004 can be directly manipulated via an extension of diverter 1004 that extends through an opening of housing 1002. It can be appreciated that any suitable approach to manipulate the position of diverter 1004 is envisioned herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0100] As wind flows through wind tunnels 1008a-c, the wind can interact with respective interactive elements 1006a-c to generate visual effects. For instance, wind flowing through wind tunnel 1008a can interact with interactive element 1006a and cause interactive element 1006a to generate a dynamic visual display, such as by spinning or flapping in the wind. In some instances, if wind does not flow though wind tunnel 1008a, then interactive element 1006a may not generate a dynamic visual display, but may instead generate a static visual display (e.g., staying still but still visible to the user) or may not generate any visual display at all (e.g., staying still but not visible to the user, such as being retracted or occluded).

[0101] To enable operation of effect generation system 1000, housing 1002 can include openings 1016a-d through which wind can flow for each respective wind tunnel 1008a-d. In some embodiments, air-permeable surfaces 1018a-d can be positioned at respective openings 1016a-d to allow wind to travel into and out of housing 1002. Air- permeable surfaces 1018a-d can be similar in construction and function to air-permeable surfaces 513 and 514 discussed herein with respect to FIG.5.

[0102] During operation, generator device 1010 can generate wind by spinning, or any other suitable method to move air. Wind 1009 can be drawn from outside of housing 1002 and into wind tunnel 1008d (or any other wind tunnel in which generator device 1010 is positioned) through air-permeable surface 1018d at opening 1016d and flow toward diverter 1004. Then, depending on what position diverter 1004 is in, the wind can be diverted to one or more wind tunnels 1008a-c and interact with one or more respective interactive elements 1006a-c. After flowing across the one or more interactive elements, the wind can then exit housing 1002 via respective air-permeable surfaces 1018a-c at openings 1016a-c of housing 1002.

[0103] In some embodiments, effect generation system 1000 can further include effect components 1020a-c coupled to housing 1002 and positioned at respective openings 1016a-c. Similar to effect component 304 in FIG.3, effect components 1020a-c can be constructed according to a visual effect associated with a theme of housing 1002. For instance, if housing 1002 is constructed according to an educational theme, each effect component 1020a-c can be constructed and decorated to display a visual effect according to the educational theme, such as letters A, B, and C, numbers 1, 2, and 3, for a first, second, and third type of animal, color, shape, etc. While FIG.10 illustrateseffect generation system 1000 as including interactive elements 1006a-c and effect components 1020a-c, it is to be appreciated that embodiments are not limited to such configurations. In some embodiments, effect generation system 1000 may include at least some of effect components 1020a-c but not include any interactive elements 1006a-c. In other embodiments, effect generation system 1000 may include at least some of interactive elements 1006a-c but not include any effect components 1020a-c. In yet other embodiments, effect generation system 1000 may include at least some of effect components 1020a-c and at least some of interactive elements 1006a-c, or any other combination of the above.

[0104] Although FIG.10 illustrates effect generation system 1000 as having four wind tunnels and one diverter for diverting wind through housing 1002 shaped as a circle, embodiments are not so limited. It is to be appreciated that effect generation system envisioned herein can include any number and configuration of wind tunnels, interactive elements, and diverters in a housing shaped in various ways suitable for creating a mentally stimulating and fun device without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. For instance, effect generation system 1000 can include multiple diverters and a network of wind tunnels with interactive elements that can allow wind to travel in various ways through the housing. One example of such an effect generation system is shown herein with respect to FIG.11.

[0105] FIG.11 is a simplified diagram of an effect generation system 1100 having a housing 1102 associated with a structure shaped as a rectangle and including two diverters 1104a-b and interactive elements 1106a-f, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Effect generation system 1100 can include wind tunnels 1108a-g through which wind generated by generator device 1110 can flow. In some embodiments, interactive elements 1106a-f can be positioned within respective wind tunnels 1108a-f and a generator device 1110 can be positioned within wind tunnel 1008g. In some embodiments, wind tunnels 1008a-g are arranged so that wind can travel through them. As an example, wind tunnels 1008a-g can be arranged in an intersecting manner, such as a double cross, as shown in FIG.11. Wind flowing through wind tunnels 1108a-f can interact with respective interactive elements 1106a-f and cause one or more interactive elements 1106a-f to display visual effects as discussed herein with respect to interactive elements 1006a-c in FIG.10.

[0106] Effect generation system 1100 can further include air-permeable surfaces 1118a-f (having the same construction and function as air-permeable surfaces 513 and 514 discussed herein with respect to FIG.5) and effect components 1120a-e (having the same construction and function as effect components 104 and 304 in at least FIGS.1 and 3) positioned at respective openings 1116a-f in housing 1102. During operation, wind can enter in housing 1102 through air permeable surface 1118f, flow though one or more wind tunnels 1108a-g, interact with one or more respective interactive elements 1106a-f, exit out of housing 1102 through one or more air-permeable surfaces 1118a-e, and interact with one or more respective effect components 1120a-e to generate one or more visual effects. It is to be appreciated that the presence and flow of wind is illustrated as a set of arrows 1109 and not every set of arrows is numbered to minimize cluttering of the figure.

[0107] Unlike effect generation system 1000 in FIG.10, effect generation system 1100 in FIG.11 can have a larger network of wind tunnels and a larger number of diverters, interactive elements, and effect components for generating different combinations of visual effects. The certain visual effect can be determined based on the positions of diverters 1104a-b, which can divert the flow of wind through the network of wind tunnels 1108a-g. Similar to diverter 1004 in FIG.10, each of diverters 1104a-b can be manipulated by a user in various ways, and positioned in various locations and orientations to change the direction of wind flow. The larger number of wind tunnels and diverters allows a greater variety of visual effects to be displayed to the user. For instance, positioning diverter 1104a in its fourth position (translated right) and positioning diverter 1104b in its second position (rotated counter-clockwise) would result in wind flowing through wind tunnels 1108a-b and 1108f-g, thereby causing interactive elements 1106a-b and 1106f and effect components 1120a-b to generate visual effects.

[0108] The larger network and number of diverters, interactive elements, and effect components can allow the user to generate all different types of visual effects. The different visual effects can be mentally stimulating to the user. Furthermore, through cause-and-effect deductions, the user can understand which positions of the diverters can cause the wind to interact with which specific interactive elements and / or effect components. Based on this, various tasks and puzzles can be constructed to challengethe user to think critically to determine which diverters need to be placed in which positions to result in a specific combination of interactive elements and / or effect components. It is to be appreciated that any type of game, challenge, or puzzle enabled by the configuration of effect generation systems discussed herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure are envisioned in embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0109] FIG.12 is a block diagram of an example method for operating an effect generation system, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. It is to be appreciated that although FIG.12 includes blocks in a specific order, the illustrated order is merely one example and that other method embodiments envisioned herein can be performed in a different order.

[0110] At block 1202 an input signal is obtained by a control module. For instance, a press of a button or a flip of a switch of, or associated with, a control module, e.g., control module 303 in FIG.3, can cause an input signal to be generated. The control module can be coupled to a housing defining an interior region and associated with a structure constructed according to a theme associated with a visual effect. As an example, the control module can be a switch that is mounted or otherwise attached to a housing, e.g., housing 406 in FIG.4, that is associated with a structure shaped as a rocket whose visual effect is flame shooting out of its engine.

[0111] At block 1204, an operation of an audio device can be optionally initiated to emit sound in association with the visual effect associated with the theme. The audio device can be disposed within the interior region and can be initiated in a predefined manner with respect to the initiation of the generator device. For instance, the audio device can be initiated at the same time as the initiation of the generator device, or it can be initiated at a different time than the generator device (such as before or after), as discussed herein with respect to FIG.3. That is, in some embodiments, the audio device first begins a countdown to a rocket launch once the input signal is obtained by the control module at block 1202, and then initiates sounds of a rocket engine at the same time the generator device initiates generation of wind to create the themed visual effect of a thrusting rocket. The audio sounds emitted by the audio device can be tuned to a specific frequency and melody to complement the operational sounds of the generator device to produce a more realistic and engaging audible experience as it generates windto create the themed visual effect. In additional or alternative embodiments, a countdown may not be initiated once the input signal is obtained by the control module at block 1202; instead, sounds of a rocket engine and initiation of the generator device can occur simultaneously to create the themed visual effect of a thrusting rocket. In some additional or alternative embodiments, the generator device first initiates generation of wind to create the themed visual effect of a thrusting rocket once the input signal is obtained by the control module at block 1202, and then the audio device initiates the sound of a blasting rocket engine to complement the operational sounds of the generator device. Emitting audio after the operation of the generator device can simulate a build-up of thrusting intensity of a rocket engine.

[0112] At block 1206, an operation of a generator device is initiated. Initiation of the generator device can be performed by the control module, such as by closing a switch that causes an energy storage device to be coupled to the generator device, or by execution (by a processor of the control module) of computer code stored in memory of the control module that causes / commands the generator device to initiate operation as discussed herein with respect to FIG.3. The generator device can be any suitable device capable of moving air, such as the examples discussed herein with respect to generator device 305 in FIG.3. The generator device can be disposed within an interior region of the housing and can move air at least partially within the interior region and out of the housing through an opening of the housing, as discussed herein with respect to FIG.5. Exiting air can interact with an effect component attached to the housing at the opening and constructed to appear and move in a way that imitates the themed visual effect in accordance with the theme of the structure, as discussed herein with respect to FIG.5. For instance, exiting air can interact with an effect component shaped as flames so that air flowing across the effect component causes the effect component to move and flutter, mimicking the effect of flame shooting out of a rocket engine.

[0113] Although the invention has been described with respect to specific embodiments, it will be appreciated that the invention is intended to cover all modifications and equivalents within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An effect generation system, comprising: a housing defining an interior region and associated with a structure constructed according to a theme, wherein the theme is associated with a visual effect; an effect generator disposed within the interior region and configured to move air at least partially within the interior region of the housing and out of the housing through an opening of the housing; and an effect component attached to the housing at the opening and configured to move by interacting with the air, the effect component is constructed to move in a way that imitates the visual effect in accordance with the theme of the structure.

2. The effect generation system of claim 1, wherein the air is moved through the opening of the housing along an exit direction, wherein the exit direction is at a non-zero angle with respect to a vertically upward direction originating from a center point of the opening when the housing is in a stationary position in accordance with the theme of the structure. The effect generation system of claim 2, wherein the vertically upward direction is orthogonal to and pointed away from a surface on which the effect generation system is positioned.

4. The effect generation system of claim 1, wherein the opening is positioned at a location where the visual effect is associated according to the theme.

5. The effect generation system of claim 1, wherein the structure is a handheld toy.

6. The effect generation system of claim 1, wherein the theme is an object that travels on the ground or in the air and the visual effect mimics dynamics of the object as it travels on the ground or in the air.

7. The effect generation system of claim 6, wherein the theme is a vehicle theme and the visual effect mimics combustion exiting the vehicle.

8. The effect generation system of claim 7, wherein the vehicle is a rocket or an airplane having an engine, and the visual effect mimics fire exiting the engine.

9. The effect generation system of claim 7, wherein the vehicle is a racecar, and the visual effect mimics fire exiting the exhaust.

10. The effect generation system of claim 1, wherein the housing is constructed as a handheld toy having a construction according to the theme, the housing including a structural extension.

11. The effect generation system of claim 1, wherein the effect generator comprises a generator housing including a toy interface mechanism for attaching to the housing, the housing being configured as the handheld toy having a construction according to the theme.

12. The effect generation system of claim 11, wherein the housing comprises an effect interface feature for attaching to the effect generator by way of the toy interface feature of the effect generator.

13. The effect generation system of claim 1, wherein the opening comprises an air-permeable region that allows air to pass through but blocks objects greater than a threshold size.

14. The effect generation system of claim 13, wherein the threshold size is defined by the size of the openings in air-permeable region.

15. The effect generation system of claim 1, wherein the effect generator comprises a generator device that moves the wind, the generator device being a fan.

16. The effect generation system of claim 15, further comprising:a control module coupled to the generator device; an energy storage device coupled to the control module; and an audio device coupled to the control module.

17. The effect generation system of claim 16, wherein the control module comprises an on-off switch.

18. The effect generation system of claim 16, wherein the control module comprises a processor and memory, the processor configured to execute instructions stored in the memory to coordinate operation of the generator device and the audio device using the energy storage device.

19. The effect generation system of claim 1, further comprising: a wind tunnel formed of a first tunnel portion that splits into at least a second tunnel portion and a third tunnel portion at an intersection region; a diverter positioned at the intersection region, wherein the diverter is movable to divert wind from the first tunnel portion to at least one of the second tunnel portion or the third tunnel portion; and an interactive element positioned within at least one of the second tunnel portion and the third tunnel portion, the interactive element configured to interact with the wind to generate a visual effect.

20. A method of operating an effect generation system, comprising: obtaining an input signal at a control module coupled to a housing defining an interior region and associated with a structure having a construction according to a theme associated with a visual effect; and initiating an operation of a generator device disposed within the interior region that moves air at least partially within the interior region of the housing and out of the housing through an opening of the housing, wherein the air interacts with an effect component attached to the housing at the opening and constructed to appear and move in a way that imitates the visual effect in accordance with the theme of the structure.

21. The effect generation system of claim 20, wherein the air is moved through the opening of the housing along an exit direction, wherein the exit direction is at a non-zero angle with respect to a vertically upward direction originating from a center point of the opening when the housing is in a stationary position in accordance with the theme of the structure.

22. The effect generation system of claim 21, wherein the vertically upward direction is orthogonal to and pointed away from a surface on which the effect generation system is positioned.

23. The method of claim 20, further comprising: initiating an operation of an audio device disposed within the interior region that emits a sound in association with the visual effect associated with the theme.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the initiation of the operation of the audio device occurs at a specified time with respect to the initiation of the generator device.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein the specified time is configured so that the initiation of the operation of the audio device and the initiation of the generator device occur simultaneously.

26. The method of claim 24, wherein the specified time is configured so that the initiation of the operation of the audio device occurs after the initiation of the generator device.

27. The method of claim 23, wherein the initiating an operation of the audio device is in response to a first synchronization mode or a second synchronization mode, wherein the first synchronization mode is selected based on a first input and the second synchronization mode is selected based on a second input different form the first input.

Images