Magnetic interactive toy system with configurable magnetic objects, substrate, and integrated software for enhanced gameplay

Abstract

This invention relates to a magnetic toy system designed for enhanced interactive gameplay, incorporating both traditional and software-integrated play options. The system comprises a magnetic substrate made from a magnetic material and at least one magnetic object with a rollable housing. In one embodiment, the magnetic object includes multiple magnets integrated along the circumference of its housing, allowing for selective adherence to the magnetic substrate in various orientations based on magnetic interactions. In another embodiment, the magnetic object is spherical with a hollow space housing a bullet magnet that can freely move and position itself at different points within the object, enabling the spherical magnetic object to adhere to the magnetic substrate in multiple orientations as determined by the bullet magnet's position. In another embodiment, a software application communicates with the magnetic toy system to track the position and orientation of the magnetic objects.

Description

[0001] Title: Magnetic Interactive Toy System with Configurable Magnetic Objects, Substrate, and Integrated Software for Enhanced Gameplay

[0002] Field of Invention.

[0003]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of toy systems, specifically focusing on magnetic toys. It relates to interactive gaming systems utilizing magnetic components for enhanced playability and dynamic interactions between the toy elements and their magnetic substrate, and may employ software-driven gameplay.

[0004] Background

[0005]

[0002] Historically, magnetic toys and game components have been constrained by their simplistic designs, limiting the versatility and interactivity of gameplay. Traditional magnetic toys often consist of rigid shapes and limited magnetic interaction, lacking the capacity for dynamic movement and multifaceted gameplay experiences.

[0006]

[0003] In the realm of gaming, particularly in games involving dice, marbles, or balls, the existing designs are generally non-magnetic, relying on physical motion and gravity for movement. This approach, while functional, does not offer the unique interactive possibilities that magnetic components can provide. The absence of magnetism in these traditional game elements restricts the diversity of gaming environments and play styles, especially in contexts where enhanced control or novel interactions between the game pieces and the playing surface could significantly enrich the gameplay experience.

[0007]

[0004] Furthermore, the integration of technology in gaming has been somewhat limited, focusing mainly on electronic or digital components without exploring the potential synergies between physical game elements and technological enhancements. This gap presents an opportunity for innovation, particularly in the area of integrating magnetic properties with electronic functions to create more engaging and interactive gaming experiences. The introduction of software-based systems offers a promising avenue to overcome these limitations, enabling dynamic and customizable gameplay that can adapt to user interactions in real-time.

[0008]

[0005] Additionally, the material and design flexibility of game components have often been overlooked. Traditional game pieces are usually made from a limited range of materials and follow conventional shapes. This restricts the potential for varied tactile experiences and aesthetic diversity, which could otherwise enhance the appeal and functionality of the game pieces. The inclusion of software-driven features further expands the possibilities for innovation in game design, allowing for more complex interactions and a broader range of game mechanics.

[0009]

[0006] It is within this context that the present invention is provided, aiming to bridge the gap between traditional magnetic toys and the evolving landscape of interactive gaming through the integration of software enhancements.

[0010] Summary

[0011]

[0007] The invention pertains to a magnetic toy system comprising a magnetic substrate and at least one curved magnetic object with integrated or contained magnets. This system is designed to provide a unique interactive experience, leveraging the magnetic interactions between the object and the substrate to enable a variety of orientations and movements. The invention's focus on a magnetic toy system comprising variously shaped magnetic objects, with the capability of rolling and adhering to magnetic substrates, addresses the current market's limitations and paves the way for more innovative and engaging gaming experiences.

[0012]

[0008] Furthermore, the integration of software within this system introduces additional functionalities, such as programmable magnetic fields, interactive gameplay enhancements, and the ability to track and respond to user inputs in real-time. This software-based aspect of the invention significantly expands the scope of interactive possibilities, offering users customizable and dynamically evolving gameplay experiences that merge the tactile appeal of magnetic toys with the versatility of digital technology.

[0013]

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, a magnetic toy system is provided that includes a magnetic substrate and at least one curved magnetic object. The magnetic object is characterized by a housing capable of rolling motion and integrates multiple magnets positioned along its circumference. These magnets enable the magnetic object to adhere selectively to the magnetic substrate in a variety of orientations, determined by the magnetic interactions between the magnets and the substrate.

[0014]

[0010] In some embodiments, the housing of the magnetic object is made from materials such as rubber, plastic, wood, steel, cork, foam, and paper. This variety in material choice allows for customization based on preferences for texture, durability, and aesthetics, thereby broadening the toy's appeal across different age groups and play environments. [Oil] The magnetic toy system can feature magnets within the housing that are identical in strength and shape, ensuring uniform magnetic interactions and predictable movement patterns. Alternatively, the magnets can vary in strength, encouraging the magnetic object to achieve specific orientations after rolling. This variability adds an element of unpredictability and skill to games and activities involving the toy.

[0015]

[0012] In some embodiments, the housing of the magnetic object includes a base structure with replaceable covers for each integrated magnet. This design allows for easy maintenance and customization of the magnetic object, enhancing its longevity and versatility.

[0016]

[0013] Another embodiment includes a housing comprised of two connected shells, each embedding fixed magnets at specific positions. This construction method facilitates the assembly and disassembly of the magnetic object, enabling easier customization and repair.

[0017]

[0014] The magnetic substrate in the toy system can have a surface with various textures, such as flat, corrugated, concave, convex, and wave-like motions. These surface variations influence the rolling motion of the magnetic object, adding a dynamic and challenging aspect to games and activities.

[0018]

[0015] In some embodiments, the magnetic toy system includes an electronic component integrated into the magnetic object or substrate. This component can trigger various functions, such as mechanical, electrical, electronic, and software interactions, based on its interaction with the substrate. This integration of technology enhances the interactive experience and broadens the scope of possible games and activities.

[0019]

[0016] According to another aspect of the invention, the magnetic toy system comprises a spherical magnetic object with a hollow space and a single bullet magnet capable of freely moving within this space. This design allows the magnetic object to adhere to the magnetic substrate in multiple orientations based on the position of the bullet magnet, providing a unique and versatile play experience.

[0020]

[0017] In some embodiments, the bullet magnet is spherical, allowing for multi-directional movement within the hollow space. This feature adds a layer of complexity and unpredictability to the magnetic object's movement and orientation.

[0018] The spherical magnetic object can be composed of two interconnected shells forming the hollow space for the bullet magnet. This design facilitates the assembly and enhances the structural integrity of the magnetic object.

[0021]

[0019] Some embodiments include an electronic component activated by the positioning of the bullet magnet within the housing. This component can comprise a light source that illuminates when the bullet magnet reaches a specific position or a wireless communication module for transmitting orientation data to an external device. These features add an element of visual appeal and interactive capability, further enriching the user experience with the magnetic toy system.

[0022]

[0020] According to yet another aspect, a magnetic toy system is provided that is integrated with software, elevating the interactive experience to new heights. This advanced embodiment includes a magnetic substrate and at least one curved magnetic object, equipped with a housing for rolling motion and a series of strategically positioned magnets. These magnets facilitate selective adherence to the magnetic substrate, allowing for a diverse range of orientations driven by magnetic forces. Crucially, this version of the system is augmented with a software application that establishes a bridge between the physical and digital realms. The software is adept at tracking the position and orientation of the magnetic object in real-time, offering a digital interface for users to engage with. Through this interface, users can interact with a virtual representation of the toy system, undertaking digital challenges or games that reflect the physical arrangements and movements of the magnetic object on the substrate. This integration of software and magnetic technology heralds a novel approach to interactive play, combining tangible magnetic interactions with the boundless possibilities of digital customization and game design.

[0023] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0024]

[0021] Various embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0025]

[0022] FIG.l illustrates an isometric view of variously shaped magnetic objects, each representing different embodiments of the invention.

[0026]

[0023] FIG.2A shows a side view of magnetic objects rolling on a metallic substrate with varied contours and demonstrating magnetic coupling.

[0024] FIG.2B depicts a spherical magnetic object rolling over a hill-shaped substrate and stopping at different positions.

[0027]

[0025] FIG.3A and FIG.3B present skeletal views of different configurations of magnets within a spherical magnetic object.

[0028]

[0026] FIG.4 displays an isometric view of a spherical magnetic object with integrated magnets installed within detachable panels.

[0029]

[0027] FIG.5 offers a cutaway isometric view showing the pole arrangement of magnets within a spherical magnetic object.

[0030]

[0028] FIGs 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D each show hemispheres of a spherical magnetic object of the second type, highlighting the hollow space for a free-rolling bullet magnet and various exterior designs.

[0031]

[0029] Common reference numerals are used throughout the figures and the detailed description to indicate like elements. One skilled in the art will readily recognize that the above figures are examples and that other architectures, modes of operation, orders of operation, and elements / functions can be provided and implemented without departing from the characteristics and features of the invention, as set forth in the claims.

[0032] Detailed Description and Preferred Embodiment

[0033]

[0030] The following is a detailed description of exemplary embodiments to illustrate the principles of the invention. The embodiments are provided to illustrate aspects of the invention, but the invention is not limited to any embodiment. The scope of the invention encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications and equivalent; it is limited only by the claims.

[0034]

[0031] Numerous specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, the invention may be practiced according to the claims without some or all of these specific details. For the purpose of clarity, technical material that is known in the technical fields related to the invention has not been described in detail so that the invention is not unnecessarily obscured. DEFINITIONS:

[0035]

[0032] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention.

[0036]

[0033] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0037]

[0034] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well as the singular forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0038]

[0035] It will be further understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0039]

[0036] The term "magnetic substrate" as used herein refers to any surface or material that exhibits magnetic properties, which may include but is not limited to ferromagnetic materials like iron, nickel, cobalt, and their alloys. This could include surfaces specifically treated or coated to exhibit magnetic properties. Examples of magnetic substrates include steel plates, magnetic boards, or any surface capable of interacting with magnets.

[0040]

[0037] The term "rollable housing" implies a housing structure that facilitates rolling motion. This can encompass spherical, cylindrical, or any curved shapes that allow the object to roll over a surface. The housing may be made from various materials including plastics, metals, rubber, or composites that provide durability and suitable rolling characteristics.

[0041]

[0038] The phrase "integrated magnets" refers to one or more magnets embedded or incorporated within the housing of the magnetic object. These magnets can be of various types such as permanent magnets, electromagnets, or coded magnets. The integration is such that the magnets contribute to the object's ability to adhere to the magnetic substrate.

[0042]

[0039] A "bullet magnet" within this context denotes a movable magnet within the housing of the magnetic object. This term is intended to cover a magnet that is free to move within a designated space inside the housing, typically in spherical form, but not limited to this shape. Its movement allows for variable magnetic interactions with the substrate. DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0043]

[0040] This invention relates to a magnetic toy system designed for enhanced interactive gameplay. The system comprises a magnetic substrate made from a magnetic material and at least one magnetic object with a rollable housing. In one embodiment, the magnetic object includes multiple magnets integrated along the circumference of its housing, allowing for selective adherence to the magnetic substrate in various orientations based on magnetic interactions. In another embodiment, the magnetic object is spherical with a hollow space housing a bullet magnet that can freely move and position itself at different points within the object. This unique feature allows the spherical magnetic object to adhere to the magnetic substrate in multiple orientations determined by the bullet magnet's position. The system's design offers versatile play options, utilizing the magnetic properties for dynamic interaction between the magnetic objects and the substrate.

[0044]

[0041] FIG.l presents an isometric view of a collection of magnetic objects, each representing the first type embodiment of the invention. This set includes a spherical magnetic object (102), a discshaped magnetic object (104), a ring-shaped magnetic object (106), a torus-shaped magnetic object (108), and an egg-shaped magnetic object (110). These objects exemplify the variety of shapes that the magnetic objects can assume in this embodiment.

[0045]

[0042] FIG.2A depicts a side view where each of the magnetic objects from FIG.l is shown rolling on a metallic substrate (200). This substrate is characterized by its various waves and contours. Each magnetic object is maintained in position through magnetic coupling between one of its fixed exterior magnets and the substrate (200). Notably, both the ring-shaped magnetic object (106) and the disc-shaped magnetic object (104) are depicted in vertical or upside-down positions, secured by their magnets.

[0046]

[0043] FIG.2B illustrates the spherical magnetic object (102) as it traverses a hill-shaped variation of the substrate (200). This figure demonstrates the multiple positions at which the integrated magnets of the object can cause it to halt on the substrate.

[0047]

[0044] FIG.3A and FIG.3B offer skeletal views of two example configurations of fixed magnets (302) within the housing of a spherical magnetic object pertaining to the first type embodiment. These figures provide insight into the arrangement and orientation of the magnets within the object's structure.

[0045] FIG.4 provides an isometric view of a specific example of a spherical magnetic object from the first type embodiment. This object features integrated magnets (302) installed within detachable panels (304) that cover the object's housing surface. This design allows for the modification or replacement of the magnets and their panels.

[0048]

[0046] FIG.5 displays a cutaway isometric view, revealing the pole arrangement of the magnets (302) within a spherical magnetic object (102). In this view, four out of six magnets (302) are visible, each with their north poles (304) oriented outward towards the surface and their south poles (306) directed inward towards a central stabilizing magnet (308).

[0049]

[0047] FIGs 6A, 6B, 6C, and 6D each showcase different configurations of a hemisphere of a spherical magnetic object corresponding to the second type embodiment. These figures illustrate the hollow space (504) within the housing, geometrically designed to accommodate the free rolling of a bullet magnet (502) close to the surface. Each hemisphere features coupling points (506) for attachment to a corresponding second hemisphere, forming a complete sphere with an enclosed space.

[0050]

[0048] In FIG.6A, the hemisphere (402) is shown with a rounded hollow space (504) and an exterior design (508).

[0051]

[0049] FIG.6B displays the hemisphere (404) with a similar rounded hollow space (504), but without an exterior design.

[0052]

[0050] FIG.6C shows the hemisphere (406) featuring a hollow space with sharper points (504) and a plain exterior.

[0053]

[0051] Lastly, FIG.6D portrays the hemisphere (408) with a square hollow space (504). This figure also highlights a housing infill with hollow portions to reduce material use, and no exterior design.

[0054] EMBODIMENTS OF THE SYSTEM INTEGRATING SOFTWARE

[0055]

[0052] Another embodiment of the disclosed system encompasses an integrated system that merges physical play elements with digital interactivity, aiming to elevate the user experience by incorporating software applications that interact with physical magnetic objects. The system capitalizes on augmented reality (AR) technology to facilitate digital interaction. By utilizing the mobile device's camera, the system recognizes magnetic objects in real-time, allowing for the overlay of digital effects, information, or virtual characters that interact with these objects. This integration seeks to augment the physical play experience with digital storytelling or game mechanics, including puzzles or challenges that require physical manipulation of the magnetic objects to solve.

[0056]

[0053] Further, the invention contemplates using magnetic objects as controllers for mobile games or applications. The orientation, arrangement, or movement of these objects on a surface can be translated into digital actions within a game or application. This functionality may be supported by a specialized mat or surface that communicates with the mobile device, capable of detecting the presence and position of the magnetic objects, thereby translating physical interactions into digital responses.

[0057]

[0054] Additionally, the invention proposes the development of an application designed to facilitate and track competitive play involving the magnetic objects. This app would enable users to record scores or progress in scenarios that include achieving specific configurations under time constraints or competing against online opponents. Such a feature promotes engagement by offering structured challenges and the ability to track improvement or compete with others.

[0058]

[0055] To actualize these concepts, the system incorporates communication protocols that enable interaction between the magnetic objects (or their associated surfaces) and the mobile device. It also outlines the user interfaces and the interactive experiences provided by the applications. The implementation may involve technologies for object recognition and data transmission, such as Bluetooth or NFC, alongside a software architecture that supports the seamless integration between the physical play elements and digital content. Through these technological means, the invention aims to provide a comprehensive play experience that bridges the gap between tangible interactions and digital engagement.

[0059] Competitive Play and Score Tracking

[0060]

[0056] To effectively implement the concept of "Competitive Play and Score Tracking" within a mobile application for the magnetic toy system, a structured approach to software development is proposed. This involves several key steps aimed at enhancing user interaction and engagement through digital means.

[0057] The initial step involves facilitating user registration and profile creation within the app, allowing for the personalization of the experience. This functionality enables users to save their progress, scores, and achievements, creating a sense of ownership and progression.

[0061]

[0058] Following registration, the application will establish device connectivity and setup, utilizing technologies such as Bluetooth or NFC. This step is critical for enabling the mobile device to interact with the magnetic toy system, tracking the positions and movements of the magnetic objects accurately.

[0062]

[0059] The app will offer a comprehensive library of challenges for users to engage with. These challenges will be categorized by various criteria such as difficulty, theme, or type, providing users with a clear understanding of the objectives and requirements involving the magnetic objects.

[0063]

[0060] Real-time tracking and analysis of the magnetic objects' configurations and movements will be achieved through the integration of the mobile device's camera or sensors with image recognition algorithms. This technology will allow for the dynamic assessment of user performance against the challenge objectives.

[0064]

[0061] A timer and score mechanism will be integrated for time-based challenges, evaluating user performance based on speed, accuracy of configurations, and adherence to challenge-specific objectives. This adds a competitive edge to the play experience.

[0065]

[0062] Competitive play will be further enhanced through opponent matching features, enabling users to compete against online opponents. This system will support both real-time and turnbased gameplay mechanics, fostering a competitive community environment.

[0066]

[0063] Upon challenge completion, scores will be submitted to a central server, with leaderboards updated in real-time to reflect standings. This feature encourages continuous engagement and competition among users.

[0067]

[0064] The application will also include a system of achievements and rewards, motivating users to engage with the content by completing challenges, achieving high scores, or reaching specific milestones.

[0065] Progress tracking and history features will enable users to monitor their development over time, offering insights into completed challenges, scores, and unlocked achievements. This provides users with a tangible record of their accomplishments.

[0068]

[0066] A feedback mechanism within the app will allow for the collection of user input regarding challenges, functionality, and overall experience. This valuable data can be used to refine and expand the app's offerings, ensuring user satisfaction and engagement.

[0069]

[0067] Lastly, regular updates and community engagement initiatives will be crucial for maintaining user interest. Introducing new challenges, features, and events will encourage ongoing participation and foster a vibrant user community.

[0070] Magnetic Objects as Game Controllers

[0071]

[0068] To effectively integrate magnetic objects as game controllers within mobile games or applications, a focused approach on hardware integration and tailored software design is necessary. This encompasses establishing a specialized mat or surface capable of detecting the magnetic objects' presence, position, and orientation. This mat would communicate with the mobile device through a wireless connection, such as Bluetooth, ensuring accurate input transmission.

[0072]

[0069] The mobile app development should focus on creating or adapting games that are compatible with this unique form of input. These games must be designed to interpret the physical arrangement and movement of magnetic objects into meaningful digital actions within the game environment.

[0073]

[0070] A calibration process is essential for the system to accurately recognize the magnetic objects on the specialized mat, ensuring the precise translation of physical actions into digital commands. This step is foundational for a responsive and engaging gameplay experience.

[0074]

[0071] Input mapping is critical, defining specific actions or commands based on the magnetic objects' arrangements, movements, or orientations. This mapping turns physical interactions with the objects into digital responses, such as character movements, selections, or game mechanics.

[0072] Ensuring real-time interaction is paramount for an immersive experience. The app should process inputs from the magnetic objects swiftly, allowing for instant feedback and dynamic gameplay that reflects the player's physical actions.

[0075]

[0073] The design of game mechanics should exploit the unique capabilities offered by magnetic objects as controllers. This could involve developing games that require strategic placement, movement, or combination of objects to achieve objectives, encouraging creativity and physical engagement.

[0076]

[0074] Incorporating multiplayer support enables users to engage with others in shared or competitive gameplay, enhancing the social aspect of the experience. This could facilitate interactions between multiple players in the same physical space or connect players remotely.

[0077]

[0075] A user interface that effectively communicates how to interact with the magnetic objects within the game context is crucial. It should include clear instructions, tutorials, and demonstrations that guide players through the unique interaction model provided by the magnetic objects.

[0078]

[0076] Feedback mechanisms, such as visual or auditory cues, should be integrated to signal the outcome of interactions, providing a tangible connection between physical manipulation and digital effects.

[0079]

[0077] Customization options allowing for the personalization of how magnetic objects are mapped to game actions can enhance user satisfaction, enabling players to adjust the system to their preferences and strategies.

[0080]

[0078] This approach does not merely replicate traditional game controller functionalities but reimagines the interaction between physical objects and digital environments.

[0081] SOFTWARE COMPONENTS

[0082]

[0079] The software operations described herein may be carried out by any suitable computer processor, such as that of a mobile device.

[0083]

[0080] Mobile devices, as utilized in the implementations described herein, encompass a wide array of electronic devices capable of executing software applications and connecting to wireless networks. These devices include, but are not limited to, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, portable media players, and handheld gaming consoles. Each mobile device is equipped with various sensors, input / output interfaces, and connectivity modules that facilitate interaction with external devices and services, enabling the execution of the diverse functionalities associated with the magnetic objects and gaming applications.

[0084]

[0081] The software applications or "apps" designed for these mobile devices can be developed using a variety of programming languages and development frameworks suitable for mobile computing. Examples include Swift and Objective-C for iOS devices, Kotlin and Java for Android devices, and C# for applications developed with the Unity game development platform. These apps are designed to leverage the mobile device's hardware and software capabilities, including but not limited to touchscreens, cameras, accelerometers, gyroscopes, and magnetometers, to provide a rich and interactive user experience.

[0085]

[0082] Network architectures facilitating the communication between mobile devices, servers, and other peripheral devices play a crucial role in implementing the described features. Such architectures may include cellular networks, Wi-Fi networks, Bluetooth connections, and nearfield communication (NFC). The use of cloud computing services and technologies ensures that data, such as user scores, progress, and custom challenges, can be stored, processed, and retrieved efficiently, allowing for seamless synchronization across multiple devices and providing a robust infrastructure for multiplayer gaming and social interactions.

[0086]

[0083] The software systems employed in the execution of these applications are based on a clientserver model, where the mobile device acts as the client that interacts with a server via the internet or other networks. These systems can be built using a variety of server-side technologies, including but not limited to web servers, application servers, and databases. The use of application programming interfaces (APIs) and web services, such as RESTful services, enables the mobile app to communicate with the server and perform operations such as user authentication, data retrieval, and real-time data synchronization.

[0087]

[0084] The implementation of the aforementioned features may also leverage modern software engineering practices, including continuous integration / continuous deployment (CI / CD) pipelines, automated testing, and agile development methodologies, to ensure the reliability, scalability, and maintainability of the software applications and systems. This comprehensive approach to software development allows for the rapid iteration of app features and functionalities, ensuring that the needs and preferences of the users are met effectively.

[0088]

[0085] A computer as described herein can be any suitable type of computer. A computer may be a uniprocessor or multiprocessor machine. Accordingly, a computer may include one or more processors and, thus, the aforementioned computer system may also include one or more processors. Examples of processors include sequential state machines, microprocessors, microcontrollers, graphics processing units (GPUs), central processing units (CPUs), application processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), reduced instruction set computing (RISC) processors, systems on a chip (SoC), baseband processors, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), gated logic, programmable control boards (PCBs), and other suitable hardware configured to perform the various functionality described throughout this disclosure.

[0089]

[0086] Additionally, the computer may include one or more memories. Accordingly, the aforementioned computer systems may include one or more memories. A memory may include a memory storage device or an addressable storage medium which may include, by way of example, random access memory (RAM), static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), hard disks, floppy disks, laser disk players, digital video disks, compact disks, video tapes, audio tapes, magnetic recording tracks, magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) memory, optical memory storage, quantum mechanical storage, electronic networks, and / or other devices or technologies used to store electronic content such as programs and data. In particular, the one or more memories may store computer executable instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to implement the procedures and techniques described herein. The one or more processors may be operably associated with the one or more memories so that the computer executable instructions can be provided to the one or more processors for execution. For example, the one or more processors may be operably associated to the one or more memories through one or more buses. Furthermore, the computer may possess or may be operably associated with input devices (e.g., a keyboard, a keypad, controller, a mouse, a microphone, a touch screen, a sensor) and output devices such as (e.g., a computer screen, printer, or a speaker).

[0087] The computer may advantageously be equipped with a network communication device such as a network interface card, a modem, or other network connection device suitable for connecting to one or more networks.

[0090]

[0088] A computer may advantageously contain control logic, or program logic, or other substrate configuration representing data and instructions, which cause the computer to operate in a specific and predefined manner as, described herein. In particular, the computer programs, when executed, enable a control processor to perform and / or cause the performance of features of the present disclosure. The control logic may advantageously be implemented as one or more modules. The modules may advantageously be configured to reside on the computer memory and execute on the one or more processors. The modules include, but are not limited to, software or hardware components that perform certain tasks. Thus, a module may include, by way of example, components, such as, software components, processes, functions, subroutines, procedures, attributes, class components, task components, object-oriented software components, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, micro code, circuitry, data, and / or the like.

[0091]

[0089] The control logic conventionally includes the manipulation of digital bits by the processor and the maintenance of these bits within memory storage devices resident in one or more of the memory storage devices. Such memory storage devices may impose a physical organization upon the collection of stored data bits, which are generally stored by specific electrical or magnetic storage cells.

[0092]

[0090] The control logic generally performs a sequence of computer-executed steps. These steps generally require manipulations of physical quantities. Usually, although not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical, magnetic, or optical signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, or otherwise manipulated. It is conventional for those skilled in the art to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, text, terms, numbers, files, or the like. It should be kept in mind, however, that these and some other terms should be associated with appropriate physical quantities for computer operations, and that these terms are merely conventional labels applied to physical quantities that exist within and during operation of the computer based on designed relationships between these physical quantities and the symbolic values they represent.

[0091] It should be understood that manipulations within the computer are often referred to in terms of adding, comparing, moving, searching, or the like, which are often associated with manual operations performed by a human operator. It is to be understood that no involvement of the human operator may be necessary, or even desirable. The operations described herein are machine operations performed in conjunction with the human operator or user that interacts with the computer or computers.

[0093]

[0092] It should also be understood that the programs, modules, processes, methods, and the like, described herein are but an exemplary implementation and are not related, or limited, to any particular computer, apparatus, or computer language. Rather, various types of general-purpose computing machines or devices may be used with programs constructed in accordance with some of the teachings described herein. In some embodiments, very specific computing machines, with specific functionality, may be required.

[0094] CONCLUSION

[0095]

[0093] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one having ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and the present disclosure and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0096]

[0094] The disclosed embodiments are illustrative, not restrictive. While specific configurations of the magnetic toy system of the invention have been described in a specific manner referring to the illustrated embodiments, it is understood that the present invention can be applied to a wide variety of solutions which fit within the scope and spirit of the claims. There are many alternative ways of implementing the invention.

[0097]

[0095] It is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention herein described are merely illustrative of the application of the principles of the invention. Reference herein to details of the illustrated embodiments is not intended to limit the scope of the claims, which themselves recite those features regarded as essential to the invention.

Claims

ClaimsWhat is claimed is:

1. A magnetic toy system, comprising: a magnetic substrate formed from a magnetic material; at least one curved magnetic object, wherein said magnetic object includes a housing capable of rolling motion; a plurality of magnets integrated within the housing of the magnetic object, positioned at fixed locations along the circumference of the housing, enabling the magnetic object to selectively adhere to the magnetic substrate in a variety of orientations based on the magnetic interactions between the magnets and the substrate.

2. The magnetic toy system of claim 1, wherein the housing of the magnetic object takes a form selected from the group consisting of a spherical shape, an egg shape, an open disc, a cylinder, a taurus, a closed taurus, a donut, and a closed donut.

3. The magnetic toy system of claim 1, wherein the housing of the magnetic object is composed of a material selected from the group consisting of rubber, plastic, wood, steel, cork, foam, and paper.

4. The magnetic toy system of claim 1, wherein the magnets integrated within the housing are identical in strength and shape.

5. The magnetic toy system of claim 1, wherein the magnets integrated within the housing vary in strength, encouraging the magnetic object to achieve one or more specific orientations after rolling.

6. The magnetic toy system of claim 1, wherein the housing of the magnetic object comprises a base structure with replaceable covers, each cover corresponding to an integrated magnet.

7. The magnetic toy system of claim 1, wherein the housing of the magnetic object comprises two connected shells, each shell embedding fixed magnets at specific positions.

8. The magnetic toy system of claim 1, wherein the substrate includes a surface with variations selected from the group consisting of flat, corrugated, concave, convex, and wave motion, to influence the rolling motion of the magnetic object.

9. The magnetic toy system of claim 1, further comprising an electronic component integrated into the magnetic object or substrate, configured to interact with the substrate and trigger functions selected from the group consisting of mechanical, electrical, electronic, and software interactions.

10. The magnetic toy system of claim 11, wherein the electronic component includes a light source that activates upon the magnetic object coming to a stop.

11. The magnetic toy system of claim 11, wherein the magnetic object includes a wireless communications module and a power source for communication with a device controlling a scoreboard or display.

12. The magnetic toy system of claim 1, wherein the substrate comprises areas with altered magnetic properties to create zones with different magnetic interactions with the magnetic object.

13. A magnetic toy system, comprising: a magnetic substrate formed from a magnetic material; at least one spherical magnetic object, wherein said magnetic object includes a housing capable of rolling motion; a hollow space within the housing of the magnetic object, the hollow space being formed to provide a plurality of points adjacent to the surface; a single magnet located within the hollow space, capable of moving freely within the hollow space and selectively positioning itself at the points close to the surface of the housing, enabling the magnetic object to selectively adhere to the magnetic substrate at various orientations determined by the position of the bullet magnet in relation to the substrate.

14. The magnetic toy system of claim 13, wherein the magnet is a spherical bullet magnet allowing multi-directional movement within the hollow space.

15. The magnetic toy system of claim 13, wherein the housing of the magnetic object is composed of two interconnected shells that form the spherical shape, each shell contributing to the formation of the hollow space for the bullet magnet.

16. The magnetic toy system of claim 13, wherein the magnetic object includes an electronic component that is activated by the positioning of the bullet magnet within the housing.

17. The magnetic toy system of claim 16, wherein the electronic component comprises a light source that illuminates when the bullet magnet reaches a specific position within the housing.

18. The magnetic toy system of claim 16, wherein the electronic component includes a wireless communication module for transmitting data related to the orientation of the magnetic object to an external device.

19. A magnetic toy system integrated with software, comprising: a magnetic substrate formed from a magnetic material; at least one curved magnetic object, wherein said magnetic object includes a housing capable of rolling motion; a plurality of magnets integrated within the housing of the magnetic object, positioned at fixed locations along the circumference of the housing, enabling the magnetic object to selectively adhere to the magnetic substrate in a variety of orientations based on the magnetic interactions between the magnets and the substrate; and a software application configured to communicate with the magnetic toy system, wherein the software application is designed to track the position and orientation of the magnetic object on the magnetic substrate in real-time, and wherein the software application provides a user interface for interacting with a digital representation of the magnetic toy system, enabling the completion of virtual challenges or games based on the physical configuration and movement of the magnetic object on the substrate.

Images