WO2025151234A1 - Interactive toy - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to an interactive toy that includes an accessory, an inner space, and a tank. In some implementation examples, the inner space contains one or more materials, and the tank that is connected to the inner space through a conduit. In response to a user operation on the accessory, the one or more materials flow from the inner space into the tank through the conduit to cause the interactive toy to manifest the shimmer effect.

Description

INTERACTIVE TOY

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 63/620,459, filed January 12, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a toy. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an interactive toy that manifests a shimmering or glittering effect responsive to operations of a user for an interactive user experience.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Dolls, stuffed toys, or plush toys have proven to be popular and long-lasting toy products. Nevertheless, there remains a continuing need for providing more interactive and amusing toys to enhance a user’s experience.

SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure is directed to a toy that includes at least one or more tanks (e.g., eye tank, horn tank, gem tank, cheek tank, mouth tank, and stomach tank) that shimmer, glitter, glow, or sparkle (generally collectively referred to herein as “shimmer”). Of course, it should be noted that the toy is not limited to the illustrated shape or size and can have any other shapes or sizes and still fall within the scope of this disclosure. Some aspects of the disclosure relate to an interactive toy that provides shimmer for comic relief and surprise. In certain embodiments, the interactive toy manifests shimmer in response to an operation on the interactive toy or a user interaction. For example, the interactive toy may contain materials (e.g., mica, phosphors, poly ethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or the like) and, responsive to the operation on the interactive toy by a user, the materials are dispensed into a tank (e.g., eye tank, horn tank, gem tank, cheek tank, mouth tank, and stomach tank) of the interactive toy to manifest shimmer on the interactive toy. In certain embodiments, the materials mix with a liquid in the tank. In certain embodiments, the liquid in the tank further includes one or more objects (e.g., charms, plastic particles, glass particles, and the like) prior to activation. In certain embodiments, activation of the shimmer churns up the one or more objects in the tank adding to the overall shimmer effect. In certain embodiments, the interactive toy further comprises a light source. In certain embodiments, the light source is positioned within the toy so as to illuminate the material as they are pumped into the tank.

[0005] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system including: an interactive toy, including: an accessory; an inner space containing one or more materials; and an eye tank in flow communication with the inner space through a conduit, wherein in response to a first user operation on the accessory, the one or more materials flow from the inner space into the eye tank through the conduit to cause the interactive toy to manifest shimmer eyes.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the accessory comprises a first end, and wherein the first user operation is to press on the first end of the accessory.

[0007] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the accessory comprises a second end disposed inside the interactive toy, wherein the eye tank contains water, and wherein in response to the press on the first end, the second end squeezes the inner space to cause the one or more materials to flow from the inner space into the eye tank through the conduit to form a mixture with the water.

[0008] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the accessory is detachable from the interactive toy prior to the first user operation.

[0009] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the accessory further comprises a middle part that fixes the accessory to the interactive toy after the first user operation.

[0010] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the middle part is a one-time snap fitment.

[0011] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, further including a container configured to conceal the interactive toy, wherein when the accessory is mounted on the container, the accessory is capable of unlocking the container for retrieving the interactive toy from the container or locking the container for preventing the interactive toy from being retrieved from the container.

[0012] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein in response to a second user operation performed on the accessory prior to the first user operation, the shimmer eyes feature is unlocked.

[0013] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the second user operation is rotation of the accessory.

[0014] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the one or more materials include at least one of: mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or powder that glows in darkness.

[0015] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the first end of the accessory has a shape of a gem or a diamond.

[0016] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the first end of the accessory protrudes from an outer surface of a forehead of the interactive toy prior to the first user operation.

[0017] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the interactive toy further comprises a first valve configured to permit the one or more materials to flow from the inner space into the eye tank while preventing the mixture from flowing back into the inner space.

[0018] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the interactive toy further comprises a balloon in flow communication with the inner space and the eye tank, and wherein the balloon is configured to hold an amount of the mixture that exceeds a capacity of the eye tank.

[0019] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy system, wherein the interactive toy further comprises a second valve configured to permit the mixture to flow from the eye tank into the balloon while preventing the mixture from flowing from the balloon and back into the eye tank.

[0020] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy comprising a body having one or more openings, a tank disposed in the body and aligned with the one or more openings, and an inner space disposed in the body and containing a shimmer material, wherein the shimmer material in the inner space is configured to flow into the tank.

[0021] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the shimmer material flows into the tank in response to compression of the inner space.

[0022] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the one or more openings is an eye opening.

[0023] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the tank comprises two eyes.

[0024] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the inner space is a bellows.

[0025] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the shimmer material includes at least one of: mica, phosphors, poly ethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or powder that glows in darkness.

[0026] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the tank is filled with a liquid, and wherein the shimmer material mixes with the liquid when the shimmer material flows into the tank.

[0027] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the liquid is water.

[0028] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, further comprising an overflow balloon.

[0029] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, further comprising a one-way valve.

[0030] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, further comprising an accessory configured to cause the compression of the inner space.

[0031] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the liquid includes one or more objects.

[0032] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the one or more objects is a molded charm.

[0033] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, further comprising a light source. [0034] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the light source is positioned so as to illuminate the tank.

[0035] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the tank is configured as one or more of an eye tank, a horn tank, a gem tank, a cheek tank, a mouth tank, and a stomach tank.

[0036] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy comprising an inner space in flow communication with a tank, the inner space containing one or more materials, the inner space being compressible so as to cause the one or more materials to flow from the inner space into the tank to create a shimmer effect in the tank.

[0037] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the tank is configured as one or more of an eye, a horn, a gem, a cheek, a mouth, and a stomach.

[0038] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the tank comprises a liquid, and wherein the one or more materials mix with the liquid.

[0039] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a toy, wherein the one or more materials include at least one of: mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or powder that glows in darkness.

[0040] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method of creating a shimmer effect in a toy, the method comprising providing an inner space in flow communication with a tank, the inner space containing one or more materials, and compressing the inner space to cause the one or more materials to flow into the tank to create a shimmer effect in the tank.

[0041] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, further comprising sliding an accessory to cause the compressing of the inner space.

[0042] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, further comprising rotating the accessory.

[0043] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the accessory has a shape of a gem or a diamond.

[0044] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the eye tank comprises a liquid, and further comprising mixing the one or more materials with the liquid to create a mixture when the inner space is compressed. [0045] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the liquid is water.

[0046] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, further comprising flowing an over-flow portion of the mixture into a balloon.

[0047] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, further comprising a one-way valve disposed between the balloon and the eye tank.

[0048] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the over-flow portion of the mixture passes through the one-way valve.

[0049] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, further comprising a one-way valve disposed between the inner space and the eye tank, the one-way valve being configured to prevent flow from the eye tank into the inner space.

[0050] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method, wherein the one or more materials include at least one of: mica, phosphors, poly ethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or powder that glows in darkness.

[0051] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to all embodiments described and discussed above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0052] Various embodiments are depicted in the accompanying drawings for illustrative purposes and should in no way be interpreted as limiting the scope of the embodiments. In addition, various features of different disclosed embodiments can be combined to form additional embodiments, which are part of this disclosure.

[0053] FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate perspective views of a container that contains an interactive toy in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate perspective views of an accessory utilized to unlock the container and the interactive toy of FIGS. 1A-1B according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0055] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate an example play pattern of an interactive toy, such as the interactive toy contained in the container of FIGS. 1A-1B, to provide shimmer on the interactive toy responsive to one or more user interactions according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. [0056] FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate various cross-sectional views of the example play pattern of the interactive toy of FIGS. 3A-3C according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate utilizing the accessory of FIGS. 2A-2B to unlock the interactive toy of FIGS. 3A-3C to activate shimmer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic view of a portion of an example interactive toy that provides shimmer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of the portion of the example interactive toy of FIG. 6 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of some internal parts of the portion of the example interactive toy of FIG. 6 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional schematic of a portion of an interactive toy, such as the interactive toy of FIGS. 3A-3C or the interactive toy of FIG. 6, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate demonstration of providing shimmer by an interactive toy, such as the interactive toy of FIGS. 3A-3C or the interactive toy of FIG. 6, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of the interactive toy that includes a light source positioned so as to illuminate the tank.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] The present description will be directed in particular to elements forming part of, or cooperating more directly with, apparatus and methods in accordance with the disclosure. It is to be understood that elements not specifically shown or described may take various forms well known to those skilled in the art.

[0065] Generally described, one or more aspects of the present disclosure correspond to an interactive toy which manifests a shimmer, glitter, glow, or sparkle effect (generally collectively referred to herein as “shimmer”). The shimmer can be embodied into any part of the toy (e.g., eyes, horn, gem, cheek, mouth, stomach, etc.). Thus, the disclosure is not limited to employing the shimmer into the illustrated embodiment. [0066] The interactive toy may be a doll, stuffed toy, plush toy, or the like and may take the forms of an animal (e.g., a miniature bear), a creature, a figurine, or the like. More specifically, some aspects of the present disclosure relate to an interactive toy having an inner space that contains one or more shimmering materials (e.g., mica, phosphors, poly ethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or the like) that may be dispensed into a part of the toy (e.g., one or more eyes) in response to one or more user operations on the interactive toy. In some embodiments, the shimmering materials may be dispensed to cause a shimmer effect in response to a user interaction (e.g., click, press, or the like) with an accessory inserted into the interactive toy. In some embodiments, the interactive toy may be concealed or housed within a container (e.g., a case, a box, a bag, or the like), where the accessory is initially mounted on the container. By operating the accessory, the user may retrieve the interactive toy from the container, and further insert the accessory into the interactive toy for performing operation(s) to activate the shimmer.

[0067] Advantageously, instead of presenting a toy that behaves relatively static, embodiments of the interactive toy disclosed herein therefore provide a user (or player) or a group of users a more interactive and satisfying user experience. Additionally, embodiments of the interactive toy disclosed herein provide prolonged comic relief, attraction, and surprise (e.g., from retrieving an interactive toy from a container to cause shimmer on the interactive toy) to the user by employing the same accessory for multiple interactions (e.g., opening the container and triggering the shimmer).

[0068] In some embodiments, the interactive toy may be concealed in a container upon reaching the hands of a user. An accessory may be initially mounted on an outer surface of the container for locking the container. The accessory may have a first end and a second end, where the first end may resemble a diamond, a gem, or the like and may be manipulated by the user to unlock the container for retrieving the interactive toy. While the accessory is mounted on the container, the second end of the accessory may be hidden from view of the user while the first end is exposed to the user. In some embodiments, the first end of the accessory is shaped to match and interface with a lid of the container, where the lid of the container may slightly (e.g., by 1 millimeter, 2 millimeter, 5 millimeter, 10 millimeter, 15 millimeter, 20 millimeter, or any range of values therebetween) protrude vertically from the container. Additionally and/or optionally, there may be a horizontal gap between an edge of the first end of the accessory and the lid of the container. Advantageously, the vertical protrusion of the lid and/or the horizontal gap between the edge of the first end of the accessory and the lid of the container enables the user to more smoothly operate the accessory (e.g., rotate, insert, remove, etc.) so as to unlock the container and retrieve the interactive toy from inside the container. In certain embodiments, a locking feature (e.g., the accessory) keeps the case or container closed for transit.

[0069] In some embodiments, a user may unlock the container to retrieve the interactive toy by rotating the first end of the accessory. For example, the user may rotate the first end of the accessory clockwise and/or counterclockwise by a predetermined angle (e.g., 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 50 degrees, 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 150 degrees, 180 degrees, or any range of values therebetween) to unlock the container for retrieving the interactive toy. In some embodiments, the accessory may be further dismounted or removed by the user from the container after the container is unlocked, thereby allowing further interactions between the user and the interactive toy using the accessory.

[0070] In some embodiments, after the interactive toy is retrieved from the container, the accessory may be inserted into the interactive toy for facilitating further user operations. For example, the interactive toy (e.g., a figurine, a miniature animal, or the like) may have a hole (e.g., on its forehead) to accommodate at least a portion of the accessory that includes the second end of the accessory.

[0071] In some embodiments, after the accessory is inserted into the interactive toy, the first end of the accessory may protrude by a particular distance (e.g., by 1 millimeter, 2 millimeter, 5 millimeter, 10 millimeter, 15 millimeter, 20 millimeter, or any range of values therebetween) from an outer surface of the forehead of the interactive with the second end of the accessory contacting or interfacing with an inner space of the interactive toy that contains shimmering materials. In some embodiments, the slight protrusion of the first end of the accessory from the outer surface of the forehead of the interactive toy after the accessory is inserted into the interactive toy allows a user to effectively perform further interactive operations.

[0072] In some embodiments, further interactive operations may include unlocking the interactive toy through manipulating the accessory that is inserted into the interactive toy to activate the shimmer. More specifically, by manipulating the first end of the accessory, a shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy may be unlocked from being locked such that a user may be able to activate the shimmer through additional operations. For example, the user may rotate the first end of the accessory clockwise and/or counterclockwise by a predetermined angle (e.g., 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 50 degrees, 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 150 degrees, 180 degrees, or any range of values therebetween) to unlock the shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy. The shimmer mechanism can be locked prior to the user rotating the first end of the accessory. Advantageously, initially locking the shimmer mechanism prevents unintended activation.

[0073] In some embodiments, after the shimmer mechanism is unlocked by the user manipulating the accessory (e.g., rotating the first end of the accessory), the user may then activate the shimmer by further manipulation of the accessory (e.g., press the accessory). In some embodiments, the user may press the first end of the accessory a certain distance into the forehead to activate the shimmer. For example, the user may activate the shimmer of the interactive toy by pressing the first end of the accessory until a sound (e.g., a “click” sound) indicative of activation occurs and/or until a surface of the accessory abuts against a surface of the interactive toy (e.g., internal or external surface). Once the user presses the first end of the accessory to the certain distance, an inner space of the interactive toy that contains shimmering materials may be squeezed by the second end of the accessory, where the shimmering material may then flow from within the inner space and into one or more tanks of the interactive toy to manifest or create the shimmer of the interactive toy.

[0074] In some embodiments, the accessory may further include a middle part (e.g., a one-time snap fitment) that may fixate the accessory with the interactive toy after the interactive toy manifests the shimmer. For example, after completion of activating the shimmer, the accessory may lock to the interactive toy and prevent removal of the accessory. In certain embodiments, a middle part of the accessory locks to the interactive toy to prevent removal. Advantageously, by preventing removal of the accessory from the toy, the overall desirable appearance of the interactive toy during the shimmer activation is maintained even after activation of the shimmer.

[0075] Although the various aspects will be described in accordance with illustrative embodiments and combination of features, one skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that the examples and combination of features are illustrative in nature and should not be construed as limiting. More specifically, aspects of the present application may be applicable with various types of toys, such as plush toys, dolls and the like. Still further, although a specific structure and assembly of an expandable toy for enhancing user experience will be described, such illustrative expandable toy design or structure should not be construed as limiting. Accordingly, one skilled in the relevant art will appreciate that the aspects of the present application are not necessarily limited to application to any particular type of toys, expandable toys, or plush toys.

[0076] FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate perspective views of a container 102 that contains an interactive toy (not shown in FIGS. 1A-1B) in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the container 102 may take the form of a case. But it should be noted that the container 102 may take other forms (e.g., a box, a bag, or any shapes or forms that are capable to contain the interactive toy).

[0077] FIGS. 1A-1B also show an accessory 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the accessory 104 is mounted on the container 102. In certain embodiments, the accessory 104 has a first end 108 in view of the user. In certain embodiments, the first end 108 of the accessory 104 may resemble a diamond, a gem, or any other shapes. In some embodiments, the accessory 104 can be utilized to lock the container 102, thereby preventing the container 102 from unintentionally being opened to retrieve the interactive toy concealed inside the container 102. Advantageously, using the accessory 104 to lock the container 102 can keep the container 102 closed during shipment or transportation, and protect the interactive toy within the container 102.

[0078] While the accessory 104 is mounted on the container 102, a second end (not shown in FIGS. 1A-1B) of the accessory 104 may be hidden from view of the user. As shown in FIG. IB, in some embodiments, the first end 108 of the accessory is shaped to match and interface with a lid 106 of the container 102. In certain embodiments, the container lid 106 has a geometry which interfaces with a character head gem.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiment, the lid 106 is disposed on a side of the container 102. In certain embodiments, the lid 106 of the container may slightly (e.g., by 1 millimeter, 2 millimeter, 5 millimeter, 10 millimeter, 15 millimeter, 20 millimeter, or any range of values therebetween) protrude away from the side of the container 102. As illustrated in FIG. IB, there may be a gap between an edge of the first end 108 of the accessory 104 and the lid 106 of the container 102. Advantageously, the protrusion of the lid 106 away from the container 102 and/or the gap between the edge of the first end 108 of the accessory 104 and the lid 106 of the container 102 enables the user to easily manipulate the accessory 104 to unlock the container 102 and retrieve the interactive toy from the container 102.

[0080] In some embodiments, the user may unlock the container 102 to retrieve the interactive toy (not shown in FIGS. 1A-1B) by rotating the first end 108 of the accessory 104. For example, the user may rotate the first end 108 of the accessory 104 clockwise and/or counterclockwise by a predetermined angle (e.g., 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 50 degrees, 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 150 degrees, 180 degrees, or any range of values therebetween) to unlock the container 102 and retrieve the interactive toy from inside the container 102. In some embodiments, the use may disengage or remove the accessory 104 from the container 102 after the container 102 is unlocked, thereby allowing the user to further employ the accessory 104 to interact with the interactive toy.

[0081] FIGS. 2A-2B illustrate perspective views of the accessory 104 that can be utilized to unlock the container 102 of FIGS. 1 A-1B for retrieving an interactive toy within the container 102 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2A, the accessory 104 has a first end 108, a second end 210, and a middle part 212. In some embodiments, the accessory 104 may be detachable from the container 102, and the interactive toy within the container 102. As noted above, the first end 108 of the accessory 104 may be designed or shaped to match and interface with the lid 106 of the container 102 for locking and/or unlocking the container 102. In certain embodiments, when the accessory 104 is inserted into the interactive toy (not shown in FIGS. 2A-2B), the second end 210 of the accessory 104 may be designed or shaped to contact or interface with an inner space of the interactive toy, where the inner space houses shimmering materials. For example, in certain embodiments, the second end 210 has a geometry that interfaces with the eye reveal mechanism disclosed herein to unlock the eye reveal.

[0082] Although not illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2B, the middle part 212 of the accessory 104 may be a one-time snap fitment that can fix the accessory 104 to the interactive toy after the interactive toy manifests the shimmer. The shimmer can be embodied into any part of the toy (e.g., eyes, horn, gem, cheek, mouth, stomach, etc.). Thus, the disclosure is not limited to employing the shimmer into the illustrated eye embodiment and can be employed in any other part of the toy (e.g., horn, gem, cheek, mouth, stomach, etc.).

[0083] After completion of activating the shimmer of the interactive toy, the accessory 104 may lock to the interactive toy in certain embodiments. Advantageously, by fixing the accessory 104 to the interactive toy using the middle part 212 after activation of the shimmer, the interactive toy may remain more aesthetically pleasing as compared to removing the accessory 104 to expose a hole in the forehead of the interactive toy that is intended to be occupied by the accessory 104.

[0084] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate an example play pattern of an interactive toy 300, such as the interactive toy contained in the container 102 of FIGS. 1A-1B. The interactive toy 300 includes the shimmer in the eyes. The shimmer is responsive to one or more user interactions according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As noted above, the interactive toy 300 may be concealed within the container 102 upon reaching the user. After using the accessory 104 to unlock the container 102 and retrieve the interactive toy 300 from the container 102, the accessory 104 may be inserted into the interactive toy 300 for facilitating further user operations. For example, the interactive toy 300 (e.g., a figurine, a miniature animal, or the like) may have a hole (not shown in FIGS. 3A-3C) in its forehead 302 to accommodate at least a portion of the accessory 104 (e.g., the second end 210).

[0085] More specifically, after the accessory 104 is inserted into the interactive toy 300, the first end 108 of the accessory 104 may slightly (e.g., by 1 millimeter, 2 millimeter, 5 millimeter, 10 millimeter, 15 millimeter, 20 millimeter, or any range of values therebetween) protrude from an outer surface of the forehead 302 of the interactive toy 300 and the second end 210 of the accessory 104 may contact or interface with an inner space (not shown in FIGS. 3A-3C) of the interactive toy 300 that contains shimmering material. Advantageously, the slight protrusion of the first end 108 of the accessory 104 from the outer surface of the forehead 302 of the interactive toy 300 after the accessory 104 is inserted into the interactive toy 300 allows the user to effectively perform further interactive operations (e.g., rotate, push, etc.) on the interactive toy 300.

[0086] As illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C, in some embodiments, further interactive operations may include unlocking the interactive toy 300 through manipulating the accessory 104 after the accessory 104 is inserted into the interactive toy 300 to activate shimmer eyes. More specifically, by manipulating the first end 108 of the accessory 104, a shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy 300 may move from a locked state to an unlocked state such that the user may then activate the shimmer eyes through additional manipulation. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3 A, the user may rotate or turn the first end 108 of the accessory 104 clockwise and/or counterclockwise by a predetermined angle (e.g., 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 50 degrees, 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 150 degrees, 180 degrees, or any range of values therebetween) to unlock the shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy 300, where the shimmer mechanism is locked prior to the rotation of the first end 108 of the accessory 104. Advantageously, locking the shimmer mechanism prevents the user from accidently activating the shimmer eyes, which could spoil the comic relief or surprise offered by the interactive toy 300.

[0087] As illustrated in FIG. 3B, after the shimmer mechanism is unlocked through manipulating (e.g., rotating the first end 108 of the accessory 104) the accessory 104 that is at least partially inserted into the interactive toy 300 as illustrated in FIG. 3 A, the user may be able to activate shimmer eyes through one or more additional operations or manipulations. For example, as shown in FIG. 3B, the user may press the first end 108 of the accessory 104 into the forehead in the direction of the arrow to activate the shimmer eyes. In some embodiments, the user activates the shimmer eyes of the interactive toy by pressing the first end 108 of the accessory 104 until a sound (e.g., a “click” sound) indicative of activation occurs as illustrated in FIG. 3C.

[0088] Once the user presses the first end 108 of the accessory 104 into the forehead, an inner space (not shown in FIG. 3C) of the interactive toy 300 that contains shimmering material may be squeezed by the second end 210 of the accessory 104. As such, the shimmering material may flow from within the inner space to one or more tanks (not illustrated in FIG. 3C) of the interactive toy 300 to manifest or create the shimmering effect 304 of the interactive toy 300, as shown in FIG. 3C.

[0089] Although the interactive toy 300 is illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C to include a head, it should be noted that the interactive toy 300 may further include any other body parts (e.g., torso, hands, feet, or the like) that are not shown in FIGS. 3A-3C.

[0090] FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate various cross-sectional views of the example play pattern of the interactive toy 300 of FIGS. 3A-3C according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 4A, the first end 108 of the accessory 104 may protrude from the forehead of the interactive toy 300. The second end 210 of the accessory 104 may be proximate to and/or in slight contact with an inner space (e.g., a bellows) 402 of the interactive toy 300.

[0091] As noted above, the inner space 402 may include one or more shimmering materials (e.g., mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or the like). In some embodiments, the shimmering material may take the form of a solid (e.g., powder), liquid, or a combination of solid and liquid. FIG. 4A illustrates the user pressing the first end 108 of the accessory 104 such that the second end 210 of the accessory 104 comes into contact with the inner space 402.

[0092] As illustrated in FIG. 4B, after the first end 108 of the accessory 104 is pressed a certain or predetermined distance into the interactive toy 300, the second end 210 of the accessory 104 squeezes the inner space 402 to cause the shimmering material 406 to flow out of the inner space 402 and toward a tank 404 of the interactive toy 300. In this way, the interactive toy 300 manifests the shimmering effect 304. In certain embodiments, the tank 404 is initially filled with a liquid such as water before activation of the shimmering eyes. In certain embodiments, the liquid within the tank 404 includes one or more objects (e.g., charms, plastic particles, glass particles, and the like). In certain embodiments, the activation of the shimmer effect churns up the one or more objects in the tank 404.

[0093] As noted above, because of the presence of the middle part 212 that fixes the accessory 104 to the interactive toy 300 in certain embodiments, the accessory 104 may not be removed from the interactive toy 300. Advantageously, by fixing the accessory 104 to the interactive toy 300 using the middle part 212 after activation of the shimmer eyes, the interactive toy 300 may remain more aesthetically pleasing.

[0094] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate how the accessory 104 is utilized to unlock the interactive toy 300 and activate the shimmer eyes of FIG. 3C according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, a shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy 300 may be locked before any user interactions occur. As such, a user may be prevented from accidently or unintentionally activating the shimmer eyes and spoiling the comic relief or surprise created by the interactive toy 300. [0095] In some embodiments, while the shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy 300 is locked, an attempt to press the first end 108 of the accessory 104 does not cause the second end to squeeze the inner space 402. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 5A, the second end 210 of the accessory 104 that interfaces with the inner space 402 is fixed in a particular position such that the second end 210 of the accessory 104 will not squeeze the inner space 402 even if the user presses the first end 108 of the accessory 104.

[0096] As illustrated in FIG. 5B, the shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy 300 can be activated or unlocked by manipulating the first end 108 of the accessory 104 in certain embodiments. For example, the user may rotate the first end 108 of the accessory 104 clockwise and/or counterclockwise by a predetermined angle (e.g., 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 50 degrees, 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 150 degrees, 180 degrees, or any range of values therebetween) to unlock or activate the shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy 300. As shown in FIG. 5B, after the first end 108 of the accessory 104 is rotated by a predetermined angle by the user, the second end 210 of the accessory 104 can then be translated to another particular position where the second end 210 of the accessory 104 squeezes the inner space 402 in response to the user pressing the first end 108 of the accessory 104. In some embodiments, after the shimmer mechanism is activated as illustrated in FIG. 5B, a user may press the first end 108 of the accessory 104 to squeeze the inner space 402, thereby causing the shimmering material 406 to be dispensed into the tank 404 to manifest shimmer eyes. In certain embodiments, the tank 404 is initially filled with a liquid such as, for example, water, before activation of the shimmering eyes. In certain embodiments, the liquid within the tank 404 includes one or more objects (e.g., charms, plastic particles, glass particles, and the like).

[0097] FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic view of a portion of an example interactive toy 600, such as the interactive toy contained in the container 102 of FIGS. 1A-1B that provides shimmer eyes in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the interactive toy 600 includes the accessory 104, the tank 404, and a face or front part 606. In some embodiments, the accessory 104 may be rotated to unlock the shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy 600. For example, a user may rotate the accessory 104 clockwise and/or counterclockwise by a predetermined angle (e.g., 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 50 degrees, 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 150 degrees, 180 degrees, or any range of values therebetween) to unlock the shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy 600, where the shimmer mechanism is locked prior to the rotation of the accessory 104. Advantageously, locking the shimmer mechanism prevents the user from accidently activating the shimmer eyes, which would spoil the comic relief or surprise offered by the interactive toy 600.

[0098] In certain embodiments, the tank 404 is initially at least partially filled with a liquid such as water before activation of the shimmering eyes. In certain embodiments, the liquid within the tank 404 includes one or more objects (e.g., charms, plastic particles, glass particles, and the like). As shown in FIG. 6, the inner space 404 may contain the shimmering material that may be released and mixed with the water in the tank 404 (and e.g., one or more charms if present) responsive to the user pressing on the accessory 104 when the shimmer mechanism is unlocked.

[0099] As noted above, the shimmering materials may include mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or the like. Responsive to the user pressing on the accessory 104, the shimmering material may be dispensed into the tank 404 of the interactive toy 600 to mix with the water and manifest shimmer eyes on the interactive toy 600.

[0100] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the face 606 may constitute a front part of the interactive toy 600. In some embodiments, the face 606 may be formed from an opaque or solid ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or other synthetic or semisynthetic materials. In some embodiments, the tank 404 may be formed from a transparent or clear ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) or other synthetic or semisynthetic materials. Although not illustrated in FIG. 6, the interactive toy 600 may include other body parts (e.g., a torso).

[0101] FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of a portion of the interactive toy 600 of FIG. 6 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7, an embodiment of the interactive toy 600 includes the accessory 104 having a first end 108 and a second end 210, the face or front part 606, the inner space 402 (e.g., a bellows), the tank 404, a first rear part 722, and a second rear part 724. In certain embodiments, the accessory 104, the face 606, the first rear part 722, and the second rear part 724 comprise solid ABS materials. In certain embodiments, the tank 404 comprises a clear or transparent ABS material. In certain embodiments, the inner space or bellows 402 comprises a soft PVC (polyvinyl chloride) material. Of course the listed materials are only exemplary materials as the components of the interactive toy 600 can be manufactured from any combination of materials. [0102] The accessory 104 may be inserted into the face or front part 606 (e.g., forehead 302). When inserted into the face 606, the first end 108 of the accessory 104 may be exposed to the user. The user may activate the shimmer eyes of the interactive toy 600 by manipulating the accessory 104 that it is inserted into the face 606. For example, the user may rotate the first end 108 of the accessory 104 clockwise and/or counterclockwise by a predetermined angle (e.g., 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 50 degrees, 90 degrees, 120 degrees, 150 degrees, 180 degrees, or any range of values therebetween) to unlock the shimmer mechanism of the interactive toy 600, where the shimmer mechanism is locked prior to the rotation of the first end 108 of the accessory 104. Advantageously, locking the shimmer mechanism prevents the user from accidently activating the shimmer eyes, which would spoil the comic relief or surprise offered by the interactive toy 600.

[0103] As noted above, the inner space 402 may include the one or more shimmering materials such as mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or the like. After the accessory 104 is inserted into the face 606, the user may press the first end 108 of the accessory 104 such that the second end 210 of the accessory 104 come into contact with the inner space 402. In some embodiments, after the first end 108 of the accessory 104 is pressed a certain extent (e.g., 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, or any range of values therebetween) into the interactive toy 600, the second end 210 of the accessory 104 begins squeezing the inner space 402 to cause the shimmering material 406 to flow out of the inner space 402 and into the tank 404 of the interactive toy 600 so as to mix with the liquid (e.g., water) in the tank 404 creating the shimmer eyes effect. In certain embodiments, the liquid within the tank 404 includes one or more objects (e.g., charms, plastic particles, glass particles, and the like).

[0104] Although not illustrated in FIG. 7, the first rear part 722 may be mounted to the face 606 to fix a position of the inner space 402 and a position of the tank 404 relative to the face 606 and the first rear part 722. Additionally, the second rear part 724 may be utilized to cover the first rear part 722 so as to form a head of the interactive toy 600.

[0105] FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded view of some internal parts of a portion of the example interactive toy 600 of FIG. 6 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 8, the example interactive toy 600 may include the tank 404, the inner space 402, bungs 802, valve(s) 810, a valve 806, and a balloon 808. In some embodiments, the inner space 402 may comprise a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) bellows. In some embodiments, the balloon 808 may comprise a silicone rubber.

[0106] In certain embodiments, the tank 404 is initially filled with a liquid such as water before activation of the shimmering eyes. In certain embodiments, the liquid within the tank 404 includes one or more objects (e.g., charms, plastic particles, glass particles, and the like). In some embodiments, the bungs 802 are used to seal the tank 404 after the tank 404 is filled with the liquid (e.g. water) during manufacturing. Before the shimmer eyes are activated or manifested, the inner space 402 may hold the one or more shimmering materials such as mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or any combination thereof. After the shimmer eyes are activated, the shimmering material held in the inner space 402 flows into the tank 404 and mixes with the liquid (and one or more charms if present) creating the shimmer effect.

[0107] In some embodiments, the valve(s) 810 may be one-way valve(s). More specifically, the valve(s) 810 may allow the shimmering material to flow from the inner space 402 to the tank 404, but may prevent the shimmering material to flow from the tank 404 back into the inner space 402. In certain embodiments, the valve(s) 810 may prevent the shimmering material from leaking into the tank 404 in the absence of pressure created by compression of the inner space (e.g., bellows) 402.

[0108] In some embodiments, the valve(s) 806 may be a one-way valve. More specifically, the valve 806 may allow excess shimmering material and/or water to flow from the tank 404 to the balloon 808, but may prevent the shimmering material and/or water from flowing back from the balloon 808 and into the tank 404. As such, the balloon 808 may be utilized to hold excess shimmering material and/or water that would exceed the capacity of the tank 404 after activating the shimmer eyes.

[0109] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional schematic of a portion of an interactive toy, such as the interactive toy 300 of FIGS. 3A-3C or the interactive toy 600 of FIG. 6, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 9, the interactive toy may include the accessory 104, the tank 404, the inner space 402, the first rear part 722, the second rear part 724, the valve(s) 810, the valve 806, and the balloon 808. [0110] In operation, the user may press the accessory 104 a certain distance (e.g., 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.0 mm, or any range of values therebetween) toward the interactive toy such that the accessory 104 squeezes the inner space 402 to cause the shimmering material 406 to: flow away from the inner space 402 towards the tank 404 of the interactive toy; mix with the liquid (e.g., water) in the tank 404; and cause the interactive toy to manifest the shimmer eyes.

[0111] As noted above, the valve(s) 810 may be one-way valve(s). More specifically, valve(s) 810 may allow the shimmering material to flow from the inner space 402 through a conduit 902 to the tank 404, but may prevent the shimmering material from flowing from the tank 404 through the conduit 902 towards the inner space 402.

[0112] In some embodiments, the valve 806 may be a one-way valve. More specifically, the valve 806 may allow the mixed shimmering material/water to flow from the tank 404 to the balloon 808, but may not allow the mixed shimmering material/water to flow from the balloon 808 towards the tank 404. As such, the balloon 808 may be utilized to hold excess shimmering material/water that would exceed the capacity of the tank 404.

[0113] FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate a demonstration of the shimmer eyes that can be employed by an interactive toy, such as the interactive toy 300 of FIGS. 3A-3C or the interactive toy 600 of FIG. 6, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. However, only a portion of the interactive toy 300, 600 (e.g., the tank 404 and the inner space 402) is shown for clarity in FIGS. 10 and 11. For example, instead of compressing the bellows or inner space 402 by contact with the accessory 104, the bellows or inner space 402 is being compressed between fingers of the user for simplification.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 10, the shimmering material is contained within the inner space 402 before the inner space 402 is squeezed. As noted above, the inner space 402 may be a bellows that can hold the shimmering material. In some embodiments, the shimmering material may include mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or any combination thereof. Although not illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11 , the inner space 402 may be squeezed by the second end 210 of the accessory 104 responsive to the user pressing on the first end 108 of the accessory 104 to cause the shimmering material to flow away from the inner space 402 and into the tank 404 when incorporated into the interactive toy 300, 600. [0115] In certain embodiments, the tank 404 is initially filled with a liquid such as water before activation of the shimmering eyes. In certain embodiments, the liquid within the tank 404 includes one or more objects (e.g., charms, plastic particles, glass particles, and the like). Once activated, the shimmering material mixes with the water (and one or more charms if present) in the tank 404.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 11, responsive to the user pressing on the inner space 402 (or in response to compression caused by the accessory 104 when incorporated the tank 404 is part of the interactive toy 300, 600), the shimmering material contained in the inner space 402 flows from the inner space 402 and into the tank 404. As such, the shimmering material mixes with the water in the tank 404 to create the shimmer eyes show in FIG. 11.

[0117] In some embodiments, the one or more shimmering materials can be mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or the like. In some embodiments, the shimmering material may take the form of a solid (e.g., powder), liquid, or a combination of solid and liquid. For example, the shimmering material may include powder that glows in darkness.

[0118] FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of the interactive toy 300 that includes one or more light sources 804 positioned so as to illuminate the tank 404. The light source 804 can be any type of light source. For example, in certain embodiments, the light source 804 is a light-emitting diode (LED). In operation, the light source 804 is positioned so as to illuminate the material (e.g., particles) as the material is pumped into or disposed in the tank 404. In certain embodiments, activation of the shimmer effect also activates the light source 804. In certain embodiments, the light source 804 is activated for a predetermined amount of time after the suer activates the shimmer effect by manipulating the accessory 104.

Terminology

[0119] Although certain embodiments and examples are disclosed herein, inventive subject matter extends beyond the examples in the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses, and to modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, the scope of the claims appended hereto is not limited by any of the particular embodiments described above. For example, in any method or process disclosed herein, the acts or operations of the method or process may be performed in any suitable sequence and are not necessarily limited to any particular disclosed sequence. Various operations may be described as multiple discrete operations in turn, in a manner that may be helpful in understanding certain embodiments; however, the order of description should not be construed to imply that these operations are order dependent. Additionally, the structures, systems, and/or devices described herein may be embodied as integrated components or as separate components. For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described. Not necessarily all such aspects or advantages are achieved by any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, various embodiments may be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other aspects or advantages as may also be taught or suggested herein.

[0120] Features, materials, characteristics, or groups described in conjunction with a particular aspect, embodiment, or example are to be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment or example described in this section or elsewhere in this specification unless incompatible therewith. All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. The protection is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The protection extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

[0121] Furthermore, certain features that are described in this disclosure in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations, one or more features from a claimed combination can, in some cases, be excised from the combination, and the combination may be claimed as a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0122] Moreover, while operations may be depicted in the drawings or described in the specification in a particular order, such operations need not be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. Other operations that are not depicted or described can be incorporated in the example methods and processes. For example, one or more additional operations can be performed before, after, simultaneously, or between any of the described operations. Further, the operations may be rearranged or reordered in other implementations. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in some embodiments, the actual steps taken in the processes illustrated and/or disclosed may differ from those shown in the figures. Depending on the embodiment, certain of the steps described above may be removed, others may be added. Furthermore, the features and attributes of the specific embodiments disclosed above may be combined in different ways to form additional embodiments, all of which fall within the scope of the present disclosure. Also, the separation of various system components in the implementations described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products.

[0123] For purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features are described herein. Not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves one advantage or a group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

[0124] For expository purposes, the term “horizontal” as used herein is defined as a plane parallel to the plane or surface of the floor or ground of the area in which the device being described is used or the method being described is performed, regardless of its orientation. The term “floor” can be interchanged with the term “ground.” The term “vertical” refers to a direction perpendicular to the horizontal as just defined. Terms such as “above,” “below,” “bottom,” “top,” “side,” “higher,” “lower,” “upper,” “over,” and “under,” are defined with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0125] Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without other input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0126] Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X, Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require the presence of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z.

[0127] Language of degree used herein, such as the terms “approximately,” “about,” “generally,” and “substantially” as used herein represent a value, amount, or characteristic close to the stated value, amount, or characteristic that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than 10% of, within less than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of the stated amount. As another example, in certain embodiments, the terms “generally parallel” and “substantially parallel” refer to a value, amount, or characteristic that departs from exactly parallel by less than or equal to 15 degrees, 10 degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, 1 degree, 0.1 degree, or otherwise.

[0128] Any flowchart or block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in the Figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. In addition, certain blocks may be omitted in some implementations. The methods and processes described herein are also not limited to any particular sequence, and the blocks or states relating thereto can be performed in other sequences that are appropriate.

[0129] Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, the elements of which are to be understood as being among other acceptable examples. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure. The foregoing description details certain embodiments. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the systems and methods can be practiced in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the systems and methods should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the systems and methods with which that terminology is associated.

[0130] While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features as applied to various embodiments, it may be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices or processes illustrated may be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. As may be recognized, certain embodiments of the inventions described herein may be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features may be used or practiced separately from others. The scope of certain inventions disclosed herein is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A toy system comprising: an interactive toy, comprising: an accessory; an inner space containing one or more materials; and an eye tank in flow communication with the inner space through a conduit, wherein in response to a first user operation on the accessory, the one or more materials flow from the inner space into the eye tank through the conduit to cause the interactive toy to manifest shimmer eyes.

2. The toy system of Clam 1 , wherein the accessory comprises a first end, and wherein the first user operation is to press on the first end of the accessory.

3. The toy system of Claim 2, wherein the accessory comprises a second end disposed inside the interactive toy, wherein the eye tank contains water, and wherein in response to the press on the first end, the second end squeezes the inner space to cause the one or more materials to flow from the inner space into the eye tank through the conduit to form a mixture with the water.

4. The toy system of Claim 3, wherein the accessory is detachable from the interactive toy prior to the first user operation.

5. The toy system of Claim 4, wherein the accessory further comprises a middle part that fixes the accessory to the interactive toy after the first user operation.

6. The toy system of Claim 5, wherein the middle part is a one-time snap fitment.

7. The toy system of Claim 1, further comprising a container configured to conceal the interactive toy, wherein when the accessory is mounted on the container, the accessory is capable of unlocking the container for retrieving the interactive toy from the container or locking the container for preventing the interactive toy from being retrieved from the container.

8. The toy system of Claim 2, wherein in response to a second user operation performed on the accessory prior to the first user operation, the shimmer eyes feature is unlocked.

9. The toy system of Claim 8, wherein the second user operation is rotation of the accessory.

10. The toy system of Claim 1, wherein the one or more materials include at least one of: mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or powder that glows in darkness.

11. The toy system of Claim 2, wherein the first end of the accessory has a shape of a gem or a diamond.

12. The toy system of Claim 2, wherein the first end of the accessory protrudes from an outer surface of a forehead of the interactive toy prior to the first user operation.

13. The toy system of Claim 3, wherein the interactive toy further comprises a first valve configured to permit the one or more materials to flow from the inner space into the eye tank while preventing the mixture from flowing back into the inner space.

14. The toy system of Claim 13, wherein the interactive toy further comprises a balloon in flow communication with the inner space and the eye tank, and wherein the balloon is configured to hold an amount of the mixture that exceeds a capacity of the eye tank.

15. The toy system of Claim 14, wherein the interactive toy further comprises a second valve configured to permit the mixture to flow from the eye tank into the balloon while preventing the mixture from flowing from the balloon and back into the eye tank.

16. A toy comprising: a body having one or more openings; a tank disposed in the body and aligned with the one or more openings; and an inner space disposed in the body and containing a shimmer material, wherein the shimmer material in the inner space is configured to flow into the tank.

17. The toy of Claim 16, wherein the shimmer material flows into the tank in response to compression of the inner space.

18. The toy of Claim 16, wherein the one or more openings is an eye opening.

19. The toy of Claim 16, wherein the tank comprises two eyes.

20. The toy of Claim 16, wherein the inner space is a bellows.

21. The toy of Claim 16, wherein the shimmer material includes at least one of: mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or powder that glows in darkness.

22. The toy of Claim 16, wherein the tank is filled with a liquid, and wherein the shimmer material mixes with the liquid when the shimmer material flows into the tank.

23. The toy of Claim 22, wherein the liquid is water.

24. The toy of Claim 16, further comprising an overflow balloon.

25. The toy of Claim 16, further comprising a one-way valve.

26. The toy of Claim 17, further comprising an accessory configured to cause the compression of the inner space.

27. The toy of Claim 22, wherein the liquid includes one or more objects.

28. The toy of Claim 27, wherein the one or more objects is a molded charm.

29. The toy of Claim 16, further comprising a light source.

30. The toy of Claim 29, wherein the light source is positioned so as to illuminate the tank.

31. The toy of Claim 16, wherein the tank is configured as one or more of an eye tank, a horn tank, a gem tank, a cheek tank, a mouth tank, and a stomach tank.

32. A toy comprising an inner space in flow communication with a tank, the inner space containing one or more materials, the inner space being compressible so as to cause the one or more materials to flow from the inner space into the tank to create a shimmer effect in the tank.

33. The toy of Claim 32, wherein the tank is configured as one or more of an eye, a horn, a gem, a cheek, a mouth, and a stomach.

34. The toy of Claim 32, wherein the tank comprises a liquid, and wherein the one or more materials mix with the liquid.

35. The toy of Claim 32, wherein the one or more materials include at least one of: mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or powder that glows in darkness.

36. A method of creating a shimmer effect in a toy, the method comprising: providing an inner space in flow communication with a tank, the inner space containing one or more materials; and compressing the inner space to cause the one or more materials to flow into the tank to create a shimmer effect in the tank.

37. The method of Claim 36, further comprising sliding an accessory to cause the compressing of the inner space.

38. The method of Claim 37, further comprising rotating the accessory.

39. The method of Claim 37, wherein the accessory has a shape of a gem or a diamond.

40. The method of Claim 36, wherein the eye tank comprises a liquid, and further comprising mixing the one or more materials with the liquid to create a mixture when the inner space is compressed.

41. The method of Claim 40, wherein the liquid is water.

42. The method of Claim 40, further comprising flowing an over-flow portion of the mixture into a balloon.

43. The method of Claim 42, further comprising a one-way valve disposed between the balloon and the eye tank.

44. The method of Claim 43, wherein the over-flow portion of the mixture passes through the one-way valve.

45. The method of Claim 36, further comprising a one-way valve disposed between the inner space and the eye tank, the one-way valve being configured to prevent flow from the eye tank into the inner space.

46. The method of Claim 36, wherein the one or more materials include at least one of: mica, phosphors, polyethene terephthalate or polyvinyl chloride coated with metallic materials, or powder that glows in darkness.

47. All embodiments described and discussed above.