Toy Combination and Kit with Feature Wig Accessory

Description

PRIOR HISTORY

This application claims the benefit of pending US Provisional Patent Application No. 63/660,457 filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office on 14 Jun. 2024, the specifications and drawings of which are hereby incorporated by reference thereto.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Dolls and toy figurines that transform have always been popular with children over a broad range of ages. Children appreciate the ability to control the transformation, especially transformations that are repeatable and dramatic. The act of the transformation can happen across multiple stages and via multiple methods, further extending the discovery process and engagement time for a child. For example, a doll or toy figurine with eyes that can change color and position within the eye socket is a popular soft feature for children.

The author of these specifications was inspired to create the presently disclosed subject matter by the plethora of content on streaming platforms focused on historical stories of royal families in various countries and specifically the show by Shonda Rhimes, “Bridgerton”. Ms. Rhimes' show is based on the characters in Julia Quinn's novels entitled “The Bridgerton Series”. The setting, scenery, costumes and wigs of Bridgerton as imagined by Ms. Rhimes inspired the author to create a storyline called “The Royals” in which 4 princesses and a rebellious duke discover magical feature wigs which transform them from royals to rockstars.

The author conceived the transformation initiated by the ‘feature wigs’ according to the presently disclosed subject matter incorporating fashion change would appeal to girls and fill a gap in the current doll market. The author further wanted to extend the wig play pattern to the pets of the characters as well, allowing for additional uses of the presently disclosed subject matter. It is also important to note that the feature wigs can be played with on the head of the doll and off and do not always need to take the form of a wig. Anything one would put on a head in real life or in a child's imagination would be applicable. In addition to all the features that a variety of wigs can deliver, the author contemplates the importance to have character transformation via a doll or toy figurine exemplified by eye color changes and eyelash extensions when the feature wig according to the presently disclosed subject matter is installed on the head portion of a doll or similar other toy figurine.

The Royals is an animated series in development for girls 6+, chronicling the adventures of four teenage princesses and a rebellious duke as the princesses balance their royal responsibilities with teenage angst. Their lives take electrifying turns when an unexpected discovery of enchanted wigs unlocks a previously taboo world of self-expression, catapulting them to the top of the music charts. Now challenged to balance their stately duties with their newly discovered personas as the pop rock band, “The Royals”, they secretly navigate between their inhibited lives full of pomp and circumstance and the exhilaration of sold-out concerts, all while dodging a relentless paparazzo and empowered by the liberating rhythm of double-lives embraced by the tagline, “Rock 'n Rule Forever!” The presently disclosed subject matter is described and supported by visual subject matter reflective of characters from The Royals as illustrative only and should not be construed as limiting.

GENERAL DESCRIPTIONS

The feature wig toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter is but one example of the type of adornment or accessory feature that may be configured to effect a character transformation for a doll or toy figurine. The adornment or accessory feature, for example, could also take the form of a hat, a cap, a tiara, a headband, a bow, a helmet or similar other accessory feature that is able to attach to the head of a figurine (e.g. a doll, an action toy, an animal or similar other made-up character). It will be understood the presently disclosed subject matter necessarily comprises a head portion and an accessory feature attachable to the head portion. The structural cooperation of the head portion and the add-on accessory feature cooperate to effect character transformation(s).

In some embodiments, the feature wig or accessory feature may comprise a post at an internal portion of the accessory feature which may secure the accessory feature to a head portion of the figurine. When the accessory feature is installed on the head portion, the post engages a button to trigger various actions. In some embodiments, the accessory feature may alternatively comprise a magnet cooperable with magnetic means at or within the head portion to effect a dynamic change in external appearance. In some embodiments, the accessory feature may comprise a multi-prong key cooperable with internal structure of the head portion to effect a dynamic change in external appearance thereof.

As exemplified in the detailed descriptions that follow, the feature wig or accessory feature is depicted with a post. The post engages the button in structural communication with a spring-biased eyeball-lash combination. A lever is pivotally attached to the eyeball-lash combination at a hinge. When the button and lever and depressed via the post of the accessory feature, the eyeball-lash combination rotates about a pivot axis of rotation extending through the hinge to change the external appearance of the head portion. Visually perceived eye color may be changed and lashes may extend from the head portion thereby transforming or changing the function or appearance of the head portion.

In some embodiments, the trigger action of the accessory feature may further trigger dynamic features on or with the accessory feature itself thereby changing the function or appearance of the accessory feature. In some embodiments, both the accessory feature and the head portion may transform by way of the trigger action. The claim of innovation is that the “Feature Wig” or accessory feature has functionality which can be played with either by (1) direct attachment to the head portion resulting in actions on or within the head and or face, or on or within the accessory feature itself, or a combination of actions within or on the head portion and accessory feature together, or (2) separate from a head portion, effectively as a standalone playset.

The following examples are contemplated in connection with head portion action: eyes change (position, color, size, type, expression, material); eyes light-up (twinkles in eye); lashes extend (glow-in-the-dark, light-up or color change, change shape, texture, material); make-up (glow-in-the-dark, light-up, color change); other features extend from the head portion (ears, nose, antenna, halo, hair extensions, gem, headband, gills, other fantasy features); objects extend from head (animals, flowers, candy, hair accessories, organs, appendages); lips extend (blow kiss, pucker); mouth moves or opens (fire, smoke, tongue, teeth reveal or extend, speech, expressions); facial changes (rotate to reveal different features, expressions, open to reveal interior compartments with hidden items); lights activate; sounds activate; other mechanical features.

The following examples are contemplated in connection with wig portion action: items can be pulled out and replaced/retracted; hair extensions can be formable, bendable loosely hanging, light-up, hold objects, etc.; any items as listed below that can be hidden in secret compartments; secret compartments open, close or rotate, fold, bend to reveal items hidden within; birds, birds in cage, animals, insects, food, flowers, natural elements, musical instruments, fashions, fashion accessories, make-up, hair and beauty products and accessories, small collectible items, body parts, vehicles, boats, construction elements, tools, other toys, crafts, jewelry, soft goods, etc.

Items hidden within the feature wig assembly can be used for more play or decoration of the wig, the doll, the action figure or animal. The feature wig assembly can be decorated with other accessories or attachments. The feature wig assembly can be used for display (itself or other items). The feature wig assembly can transform fully or in part to another shape, style, object or character and can change size or scale either manually or mechanically. The feature wig assembly can be custom assembled or disassembled by child, and may include lights, sounds, glow-in-the-dark materials, color changing materials, can provide various textures and materials and may provide any number of various mechanical functions.

The feature wig assembly or accessory feature may be first installed upon or attached to the head portion such that the eye color changes and lashes extend by way of the trigger action. Once the accessory feature is installed upon the head portion, the accessory feature may comprise a rotatable portion as exemplified by a rotatable bow to reveal a hidden bird cage with a pair of removable birds or doves within the accessory feature. Hair extensions may be extended from the accessory feature and attached to various external portions of the accessory feature and the birds and their swings supports may be attached to the hair extensions as attached to the accessory feature for enhancing the amusing effect of the accessory feature.

Visually themed embodiments are further contemplated. The presently disclosed subject matter, for example, contemplates an animal themed toy combination, a tea and pastries themed toy combination, a nature themed toy combination, and music themed toy combination. In connection with the tea and pastries themed toy combination, the hair extensions may comprise bendable or formable hair extensions such that objects hidden with the accessory feature may be suspended in different configurations with ends of the hair extensions being unattached to the accessory feature. The hidden compartments may be made accessible by rotation, slidable portions, or pivotal portions of the accessory features.

Further contemplated is the inclusion of animals or pets similarly configured with a head portion or formation and an attachable accessory feature to effect a change in visual appearance when the accessory feature is attached to the head formation. princess to a rockstar transformation. It will be understood that an animal or pet figurine may also undergo a similar transformation. The process of transforming an exemplary animal figurine from an unadorned animal to an accessory feature-adorned animal follows from similar form and function of the presently disclosed subject matter. An accessory feature may be attached to an animal head formation for changing eye color and extending lashes of the animal's head formation. The animal may be repositioned and otherwise hidden accessories may be removed from a hidden compartment in the accessory feature for further accessorizing the animal thereby completing a transformation.

The presently disclosed subject matter provides a toy combination or toy combination kit for enabling a user to transform external features of a head formation. The toy combination may be said to essentially comprise a head formation, which head formation defines an interior space from an exterior space and comprising at least one aperture extending from the interior space to the exterior space. The apertures may be exemplified by the eyeball apertures or the eyelash apertures, for example.

The toy combination further comprises a first actuator mechanism mounted within the interior space of the head formation and is configured to move at least one element relative to the at least one aperture to alter at least a visual appearance of the head formation at the at least one aperture. The first actuator mechanism may, for example comprise an eyeball formation and/or eyelash elements. The eyeball formation effects a change in visual appearance at the eyeball apertures and the eyelash elements effect a change in visual appearance at the eyelash apertures. In a preferred application, the eyeball formation and the eyelash elements are movable between a relaxed gaze configuration and an actuated gaze configuration. Differing eye colors and differing eyelash lengths correspond with the relaxed and actuated gaze configurations.

The toy combination further comprises at least one a head-adorning accessory feature as variously exemplified. The head-adorning accessory feature is attachable to the head formation and comprises a second actuator mechanism, which second actuator mechanism is cooperable with the first actuator mechanism to direct the first actuator mechanism into the actuated configuration for altering at least the visual appearance when the head-adorning accessory feature is attached to the head formation.

In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism may comprise a lever mechanism and the second mechanism may comprise a post. The post is engageable with the lever mechanism for displacing the lever mechanism to alter the visual appearance. In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism comprises first and second pivot axes. The first and second pivot axes extend in parallel relation to one another and are cooperably pivotable in opposite directions for altering the visual appearance.

In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism may comprise a rotatable body exemplified by rotatable eyeball bodies. Each of the rotatable eyeball bodies comprises a first exposable portion and a second exposable portion. The first exposable portion is exposed at the exterior space when directed into a relaxed configuration and the second exposable portion is exposed at the exterior space when directed into an actuated configuration. In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism may comprise a return mechanism, which return mechanism comprises a resilient member. The resilient member is actuated when the first actuator mechanism is directed into the actuated configuration. The resilient member returns the first actuator mechanism to the relaxed configuration when the head-adorning accessory feature is removed from the head formation or when the hammer-depressing force 105 is removed from the hammer element.

In some embodiments, the head-adorning accessory feature may comprise a feature reveal portion, which feature reveal portion is movable intermediate a feature hidden configuration and a feature revealed configuration. The feature revealed configuration essentially exposes secondary accessories, and the feature hidden configuration visually blends the exterior rear surface of the feature reveal portion with the head-adorning accessory feature as, for example, via similar textured hair on both the exterior rear surface and the upper wig accessory.

In some embodiments, the feature reveal portion comprises at least one removable secondary accessory as exemplified by swing elements and birds. In some embodiments, at least one secondary accessory is retractably extendable from the head-adorning accessory feature as for example extendable elements with ornamental ends. In some embodiments, a first removable secondary accessory is attachable to the at least one retractably extendable secondary accessory.

In some embodiments, the secondary accessories such as swing elements and birds may be removed from the feature reveal portion and perched or supported by the extendable elements at support portions whereby the ornamental ends are attached to upper or alternative portions of the feature wig assembly. In this regard, at least one retractably extendable secondary accessory is removably attachable to the head-adorning accessory feature. In some embodiments, at least one retractably extendable secondary accessory is bendable into various configurations for providing the support portions in some applications.

In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism may comprise an extendable portion as exemplified by the extendable eyelash elements. The extendable portion is extendable from the head formation when the head-adorning accessory feature is attached to the head formation or otherwise directed into the actuated configuration. In some embodiments, the feature reveal portion may be directed into the feature revealed configuration by at least one of rotating a rotatable exterior portion exemplified by the turn piece and sliding a slidable exterior portion. In some embodiments, the feature reveal portion may comprise a sliding door instead of a rotatable carousel-like reveal portion.

In some embodiments, the head-adorning accessory feature may be removed from the head formation and may comprises or provide at least one play feature for enabling a user to separately play therewith. In this regard, an upper wig accessory may be removed from a lower wig base and the user may interact with the feature reveal portion removing secondary accessories such as swing elements and birds and extending retractable elements. In other words, the upper wig accessory is itself a toy combination and may be separately played with or utilized separate and apart from the head formation or toy figurine.

In some embodiments, the head formation may comprise a removable head cap for enabling access to the interior space via an open posterior head portion. The head-adorning accessory feature is configured to cover the open posterior head portion or the removable head cap. In a preferred application, the toy combination may be provided in the form of a basic toy combination such that a basic wig accessory either enables either the relaxed configuration or the actuated configuration. The basic wig accessory may be interchanged with a feature wig assembly for similarly enabling either the relaxed configuration or the actuated configuration 104. Accordingly, in some applications, the presently disclosed subject matter contemplates a toy combination kit for enabling a user to transform external features of a head formation

The toy combination kit according to the presently disclosed subject matter may be said to essentially comprise a head formation defining an interior space from an exterior space and comprising at least one aperture extending from the interior space to the exterior space. A first actuator mechanism is mounted within the interior space defined by the head formation and is configured to move at least one element relative to the at least one aperture to alter at least a visual appearance thereof at the at least one aperture. The toy combination kit may further include at least two head-adorning accessory features.

A first head-adorning accessory feature of the at least two head-adorning accessory features is attachable to the head formation and comprises a second actuator mechanism. The second actuator mechanism is cooperable with the first actuator mechanism to direct the first actuator mechanism into an actuated configuration from a relaxed configuration for altering at least the visual appearance. A second head-adorning accessory feature of the at least two head-adorning accessory features is attachable to the head formation for maintaining the relaxed configuration. At least the first and second head-adorning accessory features are interchangeable for enabling the user to visually transform external features of the head formation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features and objectives of the presently disclosed subject matter will become more evident from a consideration of the following brief descriptions of patent drawings.

FIG. 1 is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of a preferred smooth scalp head formation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing laterally opposed eyeball apertures formed in the preferred smooth scalp head formation.

FIG. 1A is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of an alternative smooth scalp head formation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing laterally opposed eyeball apertures and laterally opposed eyelash apertures formed in the alternative smooth scalp head formation.

FIG. 2 is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the preferred smooth scalp head formation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing a left lateral eye aperture formed in the preferred smooth scalp head formation at an anterior portion thereof.

FIG. 2A is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the alternative smooth scalp head formation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing a left lateral eye aperture and a left lateral eyelash aperture formed in the alternative smooth scalp head formation at an anterior portion thereof.

FIG. 3 is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the preferred smooth scalp head formation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the left lateral eye aperture formed at the anterior portion of the preferred smooth scalp head formation and a removable cap at the posterior portion of the preferred smooth scalp head formation.

FIG. 3A is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the alternative smooth scalp head formation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the left lateral eye aperture and the left lateral eyelash aperture formed at the anterior portion of the alternative smooth scalp head formation and a removable cap at the posterior portion of the alternative smooth scalp head formation.

FIG. 4 is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the preferred smooth scalp head formation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the removable cap at the posterior portion of the preferred smooth scalp head formation being removed from the preferred smooth scalp head formation.

FIG. 4A is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the alternative smooth scalp head formation according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the removable cap at the posterior portion of the alternative smooth scalp head formation being removed from the alternative smooth scalp head formation.

FIG. 5 is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the preferred smooth scalp head formation and portions of a first actuator mechanism positioned within the preferred smooth scalp head formation of the first toy combination in a relaxed gaze configuration and depicting a smooth concave inner surface of a removed removable cap spaced from a posterior end of the first actuator mechanism.

FIG. 5A is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the alternative smooth scalp head formation and portions of a first actuator mechanism positioned within the alternative smooth scalp head formation of the first toy combination in a relaxed gaze configuration and depicting a smooth concave inner surface of a removed removable cap spaced from a posterior end of the first actuator mechanism.

FIG. 6 is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the preferred smooth scalp head formation and a hammer element of the first actuator mechanism being depressed to actuate anterior portions of the first actuator mechanism from the relaxed gaze configuration to an actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 6A is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the alternative smooth scalp head formation and a hammer element of the first actuator mechanism being depressed to actuate anterior portions of the first actuator mechanism from the relaxed gaze configuration to an actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 7 is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the relaxed gaze configuration of the preferred smooth scalp head formation and the first actuator mechanism showing the laterally opposed eyeball apertures formed in the preferred smooth scalp head formation and a first eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyeball apertures at a first, relatively short eyelash length.

FIG. 7A is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the relaxed gaze configuration of the alternative smooth scalp head formation and the first actuator mechanism showing the laterally opposed eyeball apertures and the laterally opposed eyelash apertures formed in the smooth scalp head formation and a first eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyelash apertures at a first, relatively short eyelash length.

FIG. 8 is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the actuated gaze configuration of the preferred smooth scalp head formation and the first actuator mechanism showing the laterally opposed eyeball apertures formed in the preferred smooth scalp head formation and a second eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyeball apertures at a second, relatively long eyelash length.

FIG. 8A is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the actuated gaze configuration of the alternative smooth scalp head formation and the first actuator mechanism showing the laterally opposed eyeball apertures and the laterally opposed eyelash apertures formed in the alternative smooth scalp head formation and a second eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyelash apertures at a second, relatively long eyelash length.

FIG. 9 is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the preferred smooth scalp head formation and portions of the first actuator mechanism positioned within the preferred smooth scalp head formation in the relaxed gaze configuration with the removable head cap removed and depicting a basic wig accessory being directed toward the preferred smooth scalp head formation.

FIG. 9A is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the alternative smooth scalp head formation and portions of the first actuator mechanism positioned within the alternative smooth scalp head formation in the relaxed gaze configuration with the removable head cap removed and depicting a basic wig accessory being directed toward the alternative smooth scalp head formation.

FIG. 10 is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the preferred smooth scalp head formation and portions of the first actuator mechanism positioned within the preferred smooth scalp head formation in the relaxed gaze configuration with the removable head cap installed and depicting the basic wig accessory being directed toward the preferred smooth scalp head formation.

FIG. 10A is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the alternative smooth scalp head formation and portions of the first actuator mechanism positioned within the alternative smooth scalp head formation in the relaxed gaze configuration with the removable head cap installed and depicting the basic wig accessory being directed toward the alternative smooth scalp head formation.

FIG. 11 is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the preferred smooth scalp head formation and a hammer element of the first actuator mechanism being depressed and pivoted about a hammer pivot axis to actuate anterior portions of the first actuator mechanism from the relaxed gaze configuration to the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 11A is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the alternative smooth scalp head formation and a hammer element of the first actuator mechanism being depressed and pivoted about a hammer pivot axis to actuate anterior portions of the first actuator mechanism from the relaxed gaze configuration to the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 12 is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the preferred smooth scalp head formation and portions of the first actuator mechanism positioned within the preferred smooth scalp head formation with the removable head cap installed and depicting the basic wig accessory attached to the preferred smooth scalp head formation with a second actuator mechanism or hammer-actuating peg of the basic wig accessory extending through a peg-letting aperture of the removable head cap and actuating the hammer element to effect the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 12A is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the alternative smooth scalp head formation and portions of the first actuator mechanism positioned within the alternative smooth scalp head formation with the removable head cap installed and depicting the basic wig accessory attached to the alternative smooth scalp head formation with a second actuator mechanism or hammer-actuating peg of the basic wig accessory extending through a peg-letting aperture of the removable head cap and actuating the hammer element to effect the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 13 is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the preferred smooth scalp head formation and portions of the first actuator mechanism positioned within the preferred smooth scalp head formation with the removable head cap removed and depicting the basic wig accessory attached to the preferred smooth scalp head formation with the hammer-actuating peg of the basic wig accessory actuating the hammer element to effect the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 13A is a left lateral diagrammatic depiction of the alternative smooth scalp head formation and portions of the first actuator mechanism positioned within the alternative smooth scalp head formation with the removable head cap removed and depicting the basic wig accessory attached to the alternative smooth scalp head formation with the hammer-actuating peg of the basic wig accessory actuating the hammer element to effect the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 14 is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of a first basic toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the basic wig accessory attached to the preferred smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first basic toy combination showing the second eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyeball apertures at the second, relatively long eyelash length.

FIG. 14A is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of a first basic toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the basic wig accessory attached to the alternative smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first basic toy combination showing the second eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyelash apertures at the second, relatively long eyelash length.

FIG. 15 is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of a second basic toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with a modified basic wig accessory attached to the preferred smooth scalp head formation and depicting the relaxed gaze configuration of the second basic toy combination showing the first eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyeball apertures at the first, relatively short eyelash length.

FIG. 15A is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of a second basic toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with a modified basic wig accessory attached to the alternative smooth scalp head formation and depicting the relaxed gaze configuration of the second basic toy combination showing the first eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyelash apertures at the first, relatively short eyelash length.

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic depiction of a first embodiment of the first actuator mechanism according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing a hammer element and an eyeball formation in a relaxed gaze configuration and showing the first eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyeball apertures at the first, relatively short eyelash length.

FIG. 16A is a diagrammatic depiction of a first embodiment of the first actuator mechanism according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing a hammer element and an eyeball formation in a relaxed gaze configuration and showing the first eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyelash apertures at the first, relatively short eyelash length.

FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic depiction of the first embodiment of the first actuator mechanism according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the hammer element and the eyeball formation in an actuated gaze configuration and showing the second eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyeball apertures at the second, relatively long eyelash length.

FIG. 17A is a diagrammatic depiction of the first embodiment of the first actuator mechanism according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the hammer element and the eyeball formation in an actuated gaze configuration and showing the second eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyelash apertures at the second, relatively long eyelash length.

FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic depiction of a second embodiment of the first actuator mechanism according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the hammer element and an eyeball formation in a relaxed gaze configuration and showing the first eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyeball apertures at the first, relatively short eyelash length.

FIG. 18A is a diagrammatic depiction of a second embodiment of the first actuator mechanism according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the hammer element and an eyeball formation in a relaxed gaze configuration and showing the first eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyelash apertures at the first, relatively short eyelash length.

FIG. 19 is a diagrammatic depiction of the second embodiment of the first actuator mechanism according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the hammer element and the eyeball formation in an actuated gaze configuration and showing the second eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyeball apertures at the second, relatively long eyelash length.

FIG. 19A is a diagrammatic depiction of the second embodiment of the first actuator mechanism according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the hammer element and the eyeball formation in an actuated gaze configuration and showing the second eyeball coloration visible through the eyeball apertures and eyelash elements extending through the eyelash apertures at the second, relatively long eyelash length.

FIG. 20 is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of a first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with a feature wig assembly attached to the preferred smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first complex toy combination and showing a reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in a feature hidden configuration.

FIG. 20A is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of a first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with a feature wig assembly attached to the alternative smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first complex toy combination and showing a reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in a feature hidden configuration.

FIG. 21 is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the feature wig assembly attached to the preferred smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first complex toy combination and showing the reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in a feature revealed configuration.

FIG. 21A is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the feature wig assembly attached to the alternative smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first complex toy combination and showing the reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in a feature revealed configuration.

FIG. 21B is an enlarged anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of an upper portion of the feature wig assembly showing the reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in the feature revealed configuration.

FIG. 22 is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the feature wig assembly attached to the preferred smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first complex toy combination and showing the reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in the feature hidden configuration and showing ornamental ends of extendable elements attached to a lower wig base of the feature wig assembly.

FIG. 22A is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the feature wig assembly attached to the alternative smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first complex toy combination and showing the reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in the feature hidden configuration and showing ornamental ends of extendable elements attached to a lower wig base of the feature wig assembly.

FIG. 23 is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the feature wig assembly attached to the preferred smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first complex toy combination showing the reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in the feature revealed configuration and showing ornamental ends of extendable elements attached to the upper wig portion of the feature wig assembly for supporting removable elements from the reveal portion upon the extendable elements.

FIG. 23A is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the feature wig assembly attached to the alternative smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first complex toy combination showing the reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in the feature revealed configuration and showing ornamental ends of extendable elements attached to the upper wig portion of the feature wig assembly for supporting removable elements from the reveal portion upon the extendable elements.

FIG. 23B is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the feature wig assembly attached to the preferred smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first complex toy combination showing the reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in the feature revealed configuration and showing ends portions of extendable elements extending laterally from the lower wig base and bent about accessory elements for supporting the accessory elements and enhancing the amusing effect of the first complex toy combination.

FIG. 23C is an anterior elevational diagrammatic depiction of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the feature wig assembly attached to the preferred smooth scalp head formation and depicting the actuated gaze configuration of the first complex toy combination showing the reveal portion of the feature wig assembly in the feature revealed configuration and showing end portions of separately attachable hair extension elements attached to the upper wig assembly and bent about accessory elements for supporting the accessory elements and enhancing the amusing effect of the first complex toy combination.

FIG. 24 is a left lateral view of an alternative first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the preferred smooth scalp head formation, the upper wig accessory, and a lower wig base without a hammer-depressing peg shown in broken lines to highlight the anterior aspect of the reveal portion in the feature revealed configuration and the first actuator mechanism in the relaxed gaze configuration.

FIG. 24A is a left lateral view of an alternative first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the alternative smooth scalp head formation, the upper wig accessory, and a lower wig base without a hammer-depressing peg shown in broken lines to highlight the anterior aspect of the reveal portion in the feature revealed configuration and the first actuator mechanism in the relaxed gaze configuration.

FIG. 25 is a left lateral view of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the preferred smooth scalp head formation, the upper wig accessory, and the lower wig base with hammer-depressing peg shown in broken lines to highlight the anterior aspect of the reveal portion in the feature revealed configuration and the first actuator mechanism in the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 25A is a left lateral view of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the alternative smooth scalp head formation, the upper wig accessory, and the lower wig base with hammer-depressing peg shown in broken lines to highlight the anterior aspect of the reveal portion in the feature revealed configuration and the first actuator mechanism in the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 26 is an anterior view of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter with the smooth scalp head formation, the upper wig accessory, and the lower wig base shown in broken lines to highlight a posterior aspect of the reveal portion in the feature hidden configuration and the first actuator mechanism in the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 27 is an anterior view of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the reveal portion of the preferred smooth scalp head formation in the feature hidden configuration and the first actuator mechanism in the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 27A is an anterior view of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the reveal portion of the alternative smooth scalp head formation in the feature hidden configuration and the first actuator mechanism in the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 28 is an anterior view of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the reveal portion of the preferred smooth scalp head formation in the feature revealed configuration and the first actuator mechanism in the actuated gaze configuration.

FIG. 28A is an anterior view of the first complex toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter showing the reveal portion of the alternative smooth scalp head formation in the feature revealed configuration and the first actuator mechanism in the actuated gaze configuration.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Referring now the drawings with more specificity, the presently disclosed subject matter essentially provides a toy combination for enabling a user to transform certain external visible features of at least one portion of the toy combination. The toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter may take the form of a doll head in some applications, for example. In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides a toy combination including a smooth scalp head portion 10 and a number of wig elements attachable to the smooth scalp head portion 10 to create the effect of a doll head with simulated hair toy combination. Certain external visible features of the smooth scalp head formation 10 are transformed when the wig elements are attached to the smooth scalp head formation 10.

When certain wig elements are attached to the smooth scalp head portion 10 in some embodiments, these wig elements are operable to transform at least certain external hair and facial features of the resulting toy combination. In other words, certain wig elements operate to transform certain facial features of the smooth scalp head portion 10 while adding simulated hair to the smooth scalp head portion 10 in some embodiments. The user may change the externally visible appearance of the resulting toy combination by adorning the smooth scalp head formation 10 with any of a number of wig elements, which not only add differing hair styles to the smooth scalp head formation 10, but may also simultaneously change the visual appearance of a facial portion of the smooth scalp head formation 10.

In some preferred embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides a smooth scalp head formation 10 having at least eyeball apertures 12 such that when certain wig elements are attached to the smooth scalp head portion 10, eye color appears to transform at the eyeball apertures 12 from a first eye color to a second eye color. In some alternative embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter provides a smooth scalp head formation 10 having at least slit type eyelash apertures 13 such that when certain wig elements are attached to the smooth scalp head portion 10, eye lash elements 18 extend from a first lash length to a second lash length. The eyelash elements 18 preferably extend through eyeball apertures 12 as depicted in the figures denoted without alpha characters (e.g. FIG. 1) and the eyelash elements 18 may alternatively extend through eyelash apertures 13 as depicted in the figures denoted with alpha characters (e.g. FIG. 1A). In some embodiments, the eye lash elements 18 extend from a relatively short lash length as at 101 to a relatively long lash length as at 102 when certain wig elements are attached to the smooth scalp head portion 10.

The reader is firstly directed to FIGS. 1 to 2A to introduce these concepts. FIG. 1 is an anterior or front view of a doll type smooth scalp head formation 10 showing two eyeball apertures 12. FIG. 1A is an anterior or front view of a doll type smooth scalp head formation 10 showing two eyeball apertures 12 and two eyelash apertures 13. The smooth scalp head formation 10 extends horizontally along the X-axis as at 120 and extends vertically along the Y-axis as at 122 in FIG. 1. The full face of the smooth scalp head formation 10 is viewable along the Z-axis extending into the page in FIG. 1. Referencing FIGS. 1 and 1A, the reader will there see the smooth scalp head formation 10 may preferably comprise certain other features that enhance the external visual appearance of the smooth scalp head formation 10 such as ear features 14, a nose feature 15 and a mouth feature 16. In some embodiments, the smooth scalp head formation 10 provides lifelike facial features, the external appearance of some of which may be transformed when certain wig elements are attached to the smooth scalp head formation 10.

FIGS. 2 and 2A respectively show a lateral left side view of the smooth scalp head formations 10 otherwise shown in FIGS. 1 and 1A showing a left lateral eye aperture 12, a left lateral ear feature 14, the nose feature 15, and the mouth feature 16. The reader will note that the smooth scalp head formation 10 shown in FIG. 1A further comprises a left lateral eyelash aperture 13. The smooth scalp head formation 10 extends horizontally along the Z-axis as at 121 and vertically along the Y-axis 122 in FIG. 2. From a comparative consideration of FIGS. 1 and 2, the reader will see the smooth scalp head formation 10 provides a basis for attaching any number of wig elements having differing types of simulated hair to alter the appearance thereof. It is well understood that a wig is a head covering typically made from human or animal hair, or a synthetic imitation thereof. Wigs may be worn to disguise baldness, to alter the wearer's appearance, or as part of certain professional uniforms. The wig elements attachable to the smooth scalp head formation 10 may comprise fibrous simulated hair or molded synthetic hair in most applications.

Referencing FIGS. 3 and 3A, the smooth scalp head formation 10 may, in some embodiments, comprise a removable head cap 17. Removal as at arrow 100 of the removable head cap 17 from the smooth scalp head formation 10 enables access to internal portions of the smooth scalp head formation 10 as generally depicted in FIGS. 4 and 4A. In some applications, the removable head cap 17 is internally smooth or concave in formation so as to not engage internal structures of the smooth scalp head formation 10. The elements shown in FIGS. 1-4A introduce basic structures of the smooth scalp head formation 10 and the removable head cap 17 to demonstrate that at least a portion of the smooth scalp formation 10 is attachable to accessory features as exemplified by the removable head cap 17 or wig elements including a first basic wig accessory 24, a second basic wig accessory 24′ or a feature wig assembly 11. The reader will note that the smooth scalp head formation 10 shown in FIGS. 1-4A is devoid of either eye color or eye lash elements 18 and devoid of any internal structures for demonstration purposes only.

Further referencing FIGS. 5 and 5A the reader will there consider an inner concave surface 19 of the removable head cap 17 as removed from the smooth scalp head formation 10. A broken line referenced at 19′ depicts the removed inner concave surface 19. The reader will there consider the inner concave surface 19 of the removable head cap 17 is spaced in relation to a hammer element 20 of a first actuator mechanism held within the smooth scalp head formation 10. Since there is no structural contact between the inner concave surface 19 of the removable head cap 17 and the hammer element 20, other internal parts of the smooth scalp head formation 10 and the first actuator mechanism are positioned in a first, non-actuated, relaxed configuration 103 thereby providing a first eye color at the eye aperture(s) 12 and providing a first eyelash length of eyelash elements at the eyelash aperture(s) 13. The first, non-actuated, relaxed configuration may otherwise be referred to as a relaxed gaze configuration 103 within these specifications.

In some embodiments, the first eyelash length of the eyelash elements 18 may provide a relatively shorter lash length 101 as generally depicted and referenced in FIGS. 5 and 5A. For ease of illustration the first eye color has been depicted as comprising brown eye coloration as at hatch lines 21. When directed into a second, actuated gaze configuration 104 by depressing the hammer element 20 downwardly as at arrow 105, a first actuator mechanism within the smooth scalp formation 10 is operable to change the first or brown eye coloration to a second eye color. For ease of illustration, the second eye color has been depicted as comprising blue eye coloration as at hatch lines 22 in FIGS. 6 and 6A. Further referencing FIGS. 6 and 6A, the reader will there consider the eyelash elements 18 shift to a second lash length as compared to the lash length shown in FIGS. 5 and 5A. In some embodiments, the second eyelash length of the eyelash elements 18 may provide a relatively longer lash length as referenced at 102.

Referencing the side-by-side anterior head formation views comparatively shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 and FIGS. 7A and 8A, the reader will there consider the first, non-actuated, relaxed configuration or relaxed gaze configuration 103 depicted in FIGS. 7 and 7A versus the second, actuated configuration or actuated gaze configuration 104 depicted in FIGS. 8 and 8A. The exemplary eye coloration when in the first, relaxed gaze configuration 103 is depicted as brown as at hatch markings 21 and the exemplary eye coloration when in the second, actuated gaze configuration 104 is depicted as blue as at hatch markings 22. Further, the first eyelash length of the eyelash elements 18 as exemplified at relatively shorter lash length 101 is depicted in FIGS. 7 and 7A as compared to the second eyelash length of the eyelash elements 18 as exemplified at relatively longer lash length 102 as depicted in FIGS. 8 and 8A.

To impart the hammer-actuating or directing force 105 to shift from the first, relaxed gaze configuration 103 to the second, actuated gaze configuration 104 the accessory attachable to the smooth scalp head formation 10 comprises a second actuator mechanism defined by a post or post 23 extending downwardly from an inner surface 25 of the attachable accessory. To illustrate this feature, the first basic wig accessory 24 is provided in some embodiments. In some embodiments, an inner wig surface 25 of the first basic wig accessory 24 is substantially equivalent to or mimics the inner cap surface 19 of the removable head cap 17, excepting for an addition of a downwardly extending post or post 23, which post 23 is operable to depress the hammer element 20 when the first basic wig accessory 24 is attached to the smooth scalp head formation 10.

As the first basic wig accessory 24 is attached to the smooth scalp head formation 10, the post 23 engages a hammer interface 26 of the hammer element 20, which hammer element 20 then pivots as at arrow 113 about a hammer pivot axis as at 106. In some embodiments, the removable head cap 17 may comprise a peg-letting aperture 27 through which the downwardly extending post 23 may be inserted and further extended to depress the hammer interface 26 and pivot 113 the hammer element 20 about the hammer pivot axis 106. The process of attaching as at arrow 127 the first basic wig accessory 24 over an intervening removable head cap 17 with a peg-letting aperture 27 is diagrammatically depicted in FIGS. 10 and 10A. The process of attaching as at arrow 127 the first basic wig accessory 24 directly to the smooth scalp head formation 10 with removable head cap 17 removed is comparatively and comparatively diagrammatically depicted in FIGS. 9 and 9A.

Referencing FIGS. 14 and 14A, the reader will there consider an anterior diagrammatic depiction of a first basic toy combination 50 according to the presently disclosed subject matter. The first basic toy combination 50 comprises the smooth scalp head formation 10 and the first basic wig accessory 24. The first basic toy combination 50 may, in some embodiments, be practiced with or without the removable head cap 17 attached to the smooth scalp head formation 10. In either deployment, the first basic toy combination 50 provides the second, actuated gaze configuration 104 wherein the first basic toy combination 50 provides facial features that include the second eye coloration as at blue hatch lines 22 and the relatively long lash length 102 in addition to simulated hair 40 provided by the first basic wig accessory 24.

In some embodiments, a second basic wig accessory 24′ may be included in a toy combination kit according to the presently disclosed subject matter, which second basic wig accessory 24′ eliminates the downwardly extending post 23 and allows the user to adorn the smooth scalp head formation 10 with simulated hair 40 without a change in facial features. In other words, when attached to the smooth scalp head formation 10, the second basic wig accessory 24′ enables the first, relaxed gaze configuration 103 for providing facial features that include the first eye coloration as at brown hatch lines 21 and the relatively short lash length 101.

For ease of comparison this alternative combination of elements is diagrammatically depicted in FIG. 15 is side by side relation to FIG. 14 in the preferred embodiment and in FIG. 15A and FIG. 14A in the alternative embodiment and referenced at second basic toy combination 50′. Comparatively referencing FIGS. 14 and 14A versus FIGS. 15 and 15A, the reader will see a marked difference between eye coloration and eyelash length between the first basic toy combination 50 and the second basic toy combination 50′ with the same simulated hair 40 being shown in both the first and second basic toy combinations 50 and 50′.

To transform the external appearance of the smooth scalp head formation 10 by attaching the first basic wig accessory 24 thereto to form the first basic toy combination 50, the hammer element 11 is depressed as at force vector or arrow 105 in FIGS. 11 and 11A. The hammer element 20 comprises a pivot arm 29 connected to a hammer pivot rod 28, which hammer pivot rod 28 comprises or defines the hammer pivot axis 106. When the hammer element 20 is actuated by depressing action or force vector 105 the hammer element 20 pivots as at arrow 113 about the hammer pivot axis 106. This action causes an eye color change and a change in eyelash length at exterior facial portions of the smooth scalp head formation 10.

Comparatively referencing FIGS. 12-13A, the reader will there consider the first basic wig accessory 24 attached to the smooth scalp head formation 10. FIGS. 12 and 12A depict a preferred toy combination application whereby the first basic wig accessory 24 is attached to the smooth scalp head formation 10 over a removable head cap 17 such that the post 23 extends through the peg-letting aperture 27 formed therein. FIGS. 13 and 13A depict an alternative application whereby the first basic wig accessory 24 is attached to the smooth scalp head formation 10 with the removable head cap 17 removed.

In both applications, the post 23 depresses the hammer element 20 via the hammer interface 26 to provide the actuated gaze configuration 104, which actuated gaze configuration 104 includes a change in eye coloration from brown eye color as at hatch markings 21 to blue eye color as at hatch markings 22 and a change in eyelash length from relatively short eyelash length 101 to relatively long eyelash length as at 102. Both of these alternative applications result in the anterior diagrammatic depiction of the first basic toy combination 50 shown in FIGS. 14 and 14A. It will be recalled the second basic toy combination 50′ depicted in FIGS. 15 and 15A, presented in side by side relation to the first basic toy combination 50 depicted in FIGS. 14 and 14A, does not actuate the hammer element 20 thereby providing the relaxed gaze configuration 103.

The elements of the first actuator mechanism within the smooth scalp head formation 10 that are operable to effect the actuated gaze configuration 104 from the relaxed gaze configuration 103 are diagrammatically depicted in FIGS. 16-19A. FIGS. 16, 16A, 17 and 17A diagrammatically depict a preferred arrangement of the first actuator mechanism elements and FIGS. 18, 18A, 19 and 19A diagrammatically depict an alternative arrangement of first actuator mechanism elements. Essentially, the first actuator mechanism associated with the smooth scalp head formation 10 comprises the hammer element 20 and an eyeball formation 45. The hammer element 20 or trigger element comprises the hammer interface 26 or button, a main hammer body 42, the pivot arm 29 connected to the hammer pivot rod 28, and an actuator arm 30.

The main hammer body 42 generally extends in the dimension defined by the Y axis 122 and the Z axis 121 as referenced in FIGS. 16 and 16A. The hammer pivot rod 28 generally extends along the X axis 120 directed into the page in FIGS. 16 and 16A. The hammer pivot rod 28 defines the hammer pivot axis 106, and when the hammer interface 26 is depressed as at arrow 105, the hammer element 20 pivots 113 about the hammer pivot axis 106. When pivoted 113 about the hammer pivot axis 106, the actuator arm 30 directs a lever arm 31 of the eyeball formation 45, which lever arm 31 extends along a lever plane 123. This action causes rotation of left and right main eyeball bodies 32 of the eyeball formation 45 to rotate about an eyeball pivot axis 107 defined by an eyeball pivot rod 34 extending along the X axis 120 as directed into the page in FIGS. 16 and 16A. In some embodiments, the main eyeball bodies 32 are semispherical in three dimensions to provide a more lifelike appearance thereof.

In some embodiments, the semispherical main eyeball bodies 32 extend through the eyeball apertures 12 across an aperture plane 110 defined by the eyeball apertures 12. In this regard, the reader is directed to FIGS. 16, 16A, 17 and 17A. From a comparative consideration of FIGS. 16-17A, the reader will there consider the smooth scalp head formation 10 defines an interior space 109 opposite an exterior space 108. The aperture plane 110 separates the exterior space 108 from the interior space 109, and an exposed surface 42 of the main eyeball bodies 32 extends into the exterior space 108 from the interior space 109. The eyelash elements 18 similarly extend from the interior space 109 to the exterior space 108 through the eyelash apertures 13.

The eyelash elements 18 are attached to the main eyeball bodies 32 at an attachment point 37 and when in the relaxed gaze configuration 103 are layered upon upper portions of the main eyeball bodies 32 as at layered portion 38 in FIGS. 16, 16A, 18 and 18A. When the main eyeball bodies 32 are rotated as at arrow 111 about the eyeball pivot axis 107, the upper portions of the main eyeball bodies 32 are directed downwardly thereby directing the layered portions 38 through the preferred eyeball apertures 12 or alternative eyelash apertures 13 effecting a lengthening the eyelash elements 18 into the exterior space 108 as at arrow 114 in FIG. 17. This pivot action as at arrow 111 extends the eye lash elements 18 from the a relatively short lash length as at 101 in FIG. 16 to the relatively long lash length as at 102 when either the first basic wig accessory 24 or the feature wig assembly 11 is attached to the smooth scalp head portion 10.

The main eyeball bodies 32 each comprise an upper iris portion 43 and a lower iris portion 44. When in the relaxed gaze configuration 103, the lower iris portions 44 are externally visible via the eyeball apertures 12. When the main eyeball bodies 32 are pivoted about the eyeball pivot axis 107 into the actuated gaze configuration 104, the upper iris portions 43 are directed downwardly and positioned at the eyeball apertures 12 such that the upper iris portions 43 are externally visible through the eyeball apertures 12. As illustrated, the upper iris portions 43 comprise blue eye coloration as at blue hatch markings 22 and the lower iris portions 44 comprise brown eye coloration as at brown hatch markings 21.

In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism associated with the smooth scalp head formation 10 may further comprise a return mechanism for returning the first actuator mechanism from the actuated gaze configuration 104 to the relaxed gaze configuration 103 when either the first basic wig accessory 24 or the feature wig accessory 11 is removed. A first return mechanism for returning the first actuator mechanism from the actuated gaze configuration 104 to the relaxed gaze configuration 103 is comparatively depicted in FIGS. 16-17A and a second return mechanism for returning the first actuator mechanism from the actuated gaze configuration 104 to the relaxed gaze configuration 103 is comparatively depicted in FIGS. 18-19A. Both the first and second return means may be exemplified by a spring attachment arm 33, an anchor attachment point 35 and a resilient member 36, in some embodiments.

Referring to the preferred first actuator mechanism depicted in FIGS. 16-17A, the reader will there consider the spring attachment arm 33 extends from the eyeball formation 45 at an end opposite the lever arm 31 along an arm plane 124 that extends obliquely relative to the lever plane 123. In some embodiments, the spring attachment arm 33 extends from the eyeball formation 45 along an arm plane 124 that extends roughly 90 degrees relative to the lever plane 123. The resilient member 36 is attached to the spring attachment arm 33 and the anchor attachment point 35 positioned within the internal space 109. A return force 112 provided by the resilient member 36 directs the first actuator mechanism from the actuate gaze configuration 104 to the relaxed gaze configuration 103 when the force vector 105 is removed from the hammer element 20.

Referring to the alternative first actuator mechanism depicted in FIGS. 18-19A, the reader will there consider the spring attachment arm 33 extends from the eyeball formation 45 at an end opposite the lever arm 31 along an arm plane 124 that generally extends in coplanar relation relative to the lever plane 123. Whether to provide an obliquely angled spring attachment arm 33 or a coplanar spring attachment arm 33 is dependent upon smooth scalp head formation 10 and whether internal space 109 provides sufficient space to allow for to and fro movement of the spring attachment arm 33. The resilient member 36 is attached to the spring attachment arm 33 and the anchor attachment point 35 positioned within the internal space 109. A return force 112 provided by the resilient member 36 directs the first actuator mechanism from the actuated gaze configuration 104 to the relaxed gaze configuration 103 when the force vector 105 is removed from the hammer element 20.

Turning now to FIGS. 20 and 20A, the reader will there consider a smooth scalp head formation 10 outfitted with the feature wig assembly 11 thereby providing the first complex toy combination 70 according to the presently disclosed subject matter. Comparatively referencing FIGS. 20 and 20A versus FIGS. 14-15A, for example, the reader will note a number of structural differences between the feature wig assembly 11 versus the first basic wig accessory 24 and the second basic wig accessory 24′. The feature wig assembly 11 firstly provides a relatively and visually more complex wig accessory as compared to the first and second basic wig accessories 24/24′. Most particularly, the feature wig assembly 11 is relatively larger in form as compared to either of the first and second basic wig accessories 24/24′. As introduced in FIGS. 20 and 20A, the feature wig assembly 11 is relatively tall thereby simulating “big hair” as perhaps made most famous or popular by Marie Antionette in the mid 1700's, which “big hair” was generally characterized, in part, by exaggerated height.

In this regard, it is noted that in the 1760s height began to be added to wigs, generally about ¼ to ½ the length of the face and egg shaped. In the mid to late 1770s even bigger hair became more popular, with a commonly practiced height of 1 to 1½ times the length of the face and styled in a shape as generally and diagrammatically depicted in FIGS. 20 and 20A. Whereas the first and second basic wig accessories 24/24′ essentially outfit the smooth scalp head formation 10 with relatively commonplace simulated hair 40 and effect either an actuated gaze configuration 104 or a relaxed gaze configuration 103, the feature wig assembly 11 provides simulated big hair 51 comprising certain stylized hair as at hair texture 46. The feature wig assembly 11 can further provide the actuated gaze configuration 104 and may comprise a feature reveal portion 47 in some embodiments.

As depicted in FIGS. 20 and 20A, the feature reveal portion 47 is positioned at an upper portion of the feature wig assembly 11 in spaced relation to the smooth scalp head formation 10. In some embodiments, the feature wig assembly 11 of the first complex toy combination 70 may comprise a lower wig base 48 and an upper wig accessory 49. In some embodiments, the feature reveal portion 47 is positioned within the upper wig accessory 49 above the lower wig base 48. The feature reveal portion 47 depicted in FIG. 20 is shown such that the hair texture 46 is applied at an exterior rear surface 53 thereof to face the user or viewer. The hair texture 46 on the exterior rear surface 53 of the feature reveal portion 47 may in some applications essentially match or conform to the hair texture 46 formed on the exterior rear surface 53 of the upper feature wig accessory 49.

Comparatively referencing FIGS. 21 and 21A, the reader will there consider the feature reveal portion 47 rotated 180 degrees as at arrow 115 about a wig axis of rotation 116 to reveal a wig feature within a feature reveal chamber 52 of the upper wig accessory 49. The wig feature within the feature reveal chamber 52 is revealed when the exterior rear surface 53 of the feature reveal portion 47 is rotated about the wig axis of rotation 116 and repositioned within the feature reveal chamber 52. The configuration of the first complex toy combination 70 shown in FIGS. 21 and 21A may be referred to as a feature revealed configuration 117. The front or anterior aspect 75 of the feature reveal portion 47 is revealed and may comprise any number of compartmental features. As depicted in FIGS. 21 and 21A, the wig feature or anterior aspect 75 of the feature reveal portion 47 is exemplified by a bird cage 54 positioned within the feature reveal chamber 52 of the upper wig accessory 49. The wig feature enhances the amusing effect of the themed feature wig assembly 11 when the feature reveal portion 47 is rotated about the wig axis of rotation 116.

Referencing FIG. 21B, the reader will there consider an enlarged view of the upper wig accessory 49 with the anterior aspect 75 of the feature reveal portion 47 being shown in greater detail. When the anterior aspect 75 of the feature reveal portion 47 is visible to the user or forward facing the configuration may be referred to as the feature revealed configuration 117 as referenced in FIGS. 21, 21A, 21B, 23, 23A, 24, 24A, 25, 25A, 28 and 28A. When the exterior rear surface 53 is forward facing the configuration may be referred to as a feature hidden configuration 118 as referenced in FIGS. 20, 20A, 22, 22A, 26, 26A, 27 and 27A. To enable the user to turn the feature reveal portion 47 from the feature hidden configuration 118 to the feature revealed configuration 117, the first complex toy combination 70 may further comprise a turn piece 63. In some embodiments, the turn piece 63 may take the form of an ornamental element as exemplified by a star shape in FIGS. 20-23A and a bow shape in FIGS. 24-28A. Other forms of the turn piece 63 may include but not be limited by a hat, a butterfly, a flower, or musical symbols such as a treble clef in keeping with the overall visual theme of the first complex toy combination 70.

Extending downwardly into the feature revealed chamber 52 from the turn piece 63 is a drive shaft 64 extending through an aperture formed in the upper wig accessory 49. The drive shaft 64 is connected to an upper portion of the carousel like feature reveal portion 47 and transmits a turning force to the feature reveal portion 47. In some embodiments, the carousel like feature reveal portion 47 is centered on the axis of rotation at a bottom side thereof by a locator post 65. The locator post 65 extends upwardly from the lower wig base 48 through an aperture formed in a lower portion of the upper wig accessory 49 and defines the wig axis of rotation 116. The feature reveal portion 47 comprises an axially aligned aperture formed within a base portion 66 that rotatably receives the locator post 65.

In some embodiments, the feature reveal portion 47 may comprise interactive components so that the user can further accessorize the first complex toy combination 70. For example, the bird cage 54 comprises two swing elements 55 and two birds diagrammatically depicted at circles 56 in FIGS. 21-21B, 23 and 23A and as birds 56 in FIGS. 24-26A, 28 and 28A. The swing elements 55 are removably mounted on a cross bar element 57. The swing elements 55 may be removed from the cross bar element 57 and the birds 56 can be removed from the swing elements 55. These elements may then be reattached to the feature wig assembly 11 at exterior portions thereof to further enhance the amusing effect of the first complex toy combination 70 as generally demonstrated in FIGS. 23 and 23A.

Comparatively referencing FIGS. 22 and 23 and FIGS. 22A and 23A, the reader will there further consider certain additional features of the first complex toy combination 70 accordingly the presently disclosed subject matter. The lower wig base 48 may, in some embodiments, comprise the post 23 at an inner lower surface thereof that engages the hammer interface 26 for effecting the actuated gaze configuration 104 substantially as earlier described. Referencing FIGS. 24 and 24A, the reader will there consider a lower wig base 48′ devoid of a hammer-depressing peg for providing an alternative first complex toy combination 70′ and a relaxed gaze configuration. The lower wig base 48 and the lower wig base 48′ may both define a compartment 58 for housing extendable elements 59 and element-letting apertures 67 formed therein. Ornamental ends 60 of the extendable elements 59 may comprise any number of ornamental features as exemplified by heart-shaped elements in FIGS. 22 and 23A and bow-shaped elements in FIGS. 27-28A. Other ornamental features of the ornamental ends 60 may include utensils, flowers, butterflies or musical notes or instruments and other fanciful objects in keeping with the overall visual theme of the first complex toy combinations 70/70′.

In some embodiments, the ornamental ends 60 are matable with external portions of the upper wig accessory 49 to further accessorize the first complex toy combinations 70/70′. The extendable elements 59, are extended as at arrows 119 through element-letting apertures 67 formed in the lower wig base 48 from the compartment 58. The extendable elements 59 extend between the ornamental ends 60 and the lower wig base 48 and similarly further function to accessorize the first complex toy combination 70 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the ornamental ends 60 may comprise posterior portions having pegs 61 that are matable with external portions of the upper wig accessory 49. In some embodiments, the pegs 61 are insertable into peg-receiving apertures 68 formed at exterior portions of the upper wig accessory 49 and peg-receiving apertures 69 formed in the lower wig base 48.

In some embodiments, the extendable elements 59 may be configured to resemble hair braids or leaf strings or combinations thereof, for example. Further, in some embodiments, the extendable elements 59 may be formable or bendable as at arrows 120 so that the user may particularly bend or form the extendable elements 59 into a preferred configuration for providing support portions as at 62 in FIGS. 23 and 23A. In the illustrated example provided, the support portions 62 of the extendable elements 59 have sufficient strength to support the swing elements 55 with or without birds 56 to further accessorize the first complex toy combination 70 as the user may elect. The swing elements 55 depicted in FIGS. 23 and 23A are removably mounted to the support portions 62 via hooks 71 at upper ends thereof which may hook over the support portions 62 or the cross bar element 57. The hook elements are referenced in FIGS. 24-26A. The birds 56 have both been depicted as being perched upon the swing elements 55. The birds 56 may mate with the swing elements 55 via post-hole mated engagement in a manner similar to the mated engagement of the pegs 61 and apertures 68.

Referencing FIG. 23B, the reader will there consider a further application of the first complex toy combination 70 according to the presently disclosed subject matter. In some applications, the extendable elements 59 may be formable or bendable as at arrows 120 so that the user may particularly bend or form the extendable elements 59 into a preferred configuration for supporting accessory elements 74 at end portions of the extendable elements 59. In the illustrated example provided, the accessory elements 74 may be in the form of drumsticks, for example. The extendable elements 59 have sufficient strength to support the accessory elements 74 to further accessorize the first complex toy combination 70 as the user may elect.

Referencing FIG. 23C, the reader will there consider a further application of the first complex toy combination 70 according to the presently disclosed subject matter. In some applications, separately attachable hair extension elements 76 may be formable or bendable as at arrows 120 so that the user may particularly bend or form the hair extension elements 76 into a preferred configuration for supporting accessory elements 74 at end portions of the hair extension elements 76. In the illustrated example provided, the accessory elements 74 may be in the form of drumsticks, for example. In some embodiments, the hair extension elements 76 may comprise hook portions 77 that hang from hook support elements 78 formed on the upper wig assembly 49. The hair extension elements 76 have sufficient strength to support the accessory elements 74 to further accessorize the first complex toy combination 70 as the user may elect.

Whereas the illustrative support presented in FIGS. 1-23C has been presented primarily in diagrammatic form to illustrate the general concepts according to the presently disclosed subject matter, the illustrative support presented in FIGS. 24-28A has been presented to show the reader the relatively more complex features of the first complex toy combination 70 and its alternative embodiment referenced at 70′. The reader is firstly directed to FIGS. 24-26A, showing the eyeball formation in the relaxed gaze configuration 103 in FIGS. 24 and 24A. The reader will there note the lower wig base 48′ is devoid of a hammer-depressing peg so as to allow for the relaxed gaze configuration 103. In some embodiments, the lower wig base 48′ may be included in the toy combination kit according to the presently disclosed subject matter so as to allow the user to implement such a configuration.

Comparatively referencing FIGS. 25 and 25A, the reader will there consider the lower wig base 48 having a hammer-depressing post 23, which depresses 105 the hammer element 20 and causes actuation of the first actuator mechanism within the smooth scalp head formation 10 and provides the actuated gaze configuration 104. The images in FIGS. 24-25A have omitted the eyelash elements 18 to highlight the eyeball apertures 12 in all figures and the slit like eyelash apertures 13 in FIGS. 24A and 25A. All FIGS. 24-25A further show the feature reveal portion 47 in the feature revealed configuration 117 relative to the smooth scalp head formation 10. FIGS. 26 and 26A shows the feature reveal portion 47 in the feature hidden configuration 118 with the exterior rear surface 53 of the feature reveal portion 47 removed to show a posterior aspect of the feature reveal portion 47.

Comparatively referencing FIGS. 24-25A versus FIGS. 26 and 26A, the reader will further consider a bracket element 72, which bracket element 72 holds the eyeball formation 45 and fixes the eyeball pivot axis 107. In some embodiments, the bracket element 72 comprises an anterior bracket portion 73 that may anteriorly conform to the inner surface of the smooth scalp head formation 10 in superior adjacency to the eyeball apertures 12. A posterior surface of the anterior bracket portion 73 may provide a stop structure for the lever arm 31 of the eyeball formation 45 when being actuated from the relaxed gaze configuration 103 to the actuated gaze configuration 104. The bracket element 72 can be seen extending between the eyeball bodies 32 in FIG. 26 securing the eyeball pivot rod 34. The reader will further note the hammer pivot rod 28 extending in parallel relation to the eyeball pivot rod 34.

In some embodiments, the hair texture 46 of the first complex toy combination 70 can be relatively elaborate as generally depicted in the final views presented in FIGS. 27-28A. FIGS. 27 and 27A show the first toy combination with an actuate gaze configuration 104 with the feature reveal portion 47 in the feature hidden configuration 118. The reader will note the exterior rear surface 53 of the feature reveal portion 47 visually blends with the hair texture 46 and may comprise other adornments such as beads and bows as generally depicted in FIGS. 27 and 27A. Comparing FIGS. 28 and 28A, the reader will there consider the first complex toy combination depicted with the actuated gaze configuration 104 with a relatively long eyelash length 102 and the reveal portion in the feature revealed configuration 117. Given the visual complexity of the first complex toy combination in some applications, the complex hair texture 46 has been limited to the illustrative subject matter in FIGS. 27-28A.

While the above descriptions contain much specificity, this specificity should not be construed as limiting the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter, but rather as exemplifications of the presently disclosed subject matter. The basic invention may be said to essentially teach or disclose a toy combination or toy combination kit for enabling a user to transform external features of a head formation. The toy combination may be said to essentially comprise a head formation as at smooth scalp head formation 10, which head formation defines an interior space 109 from an exterior space 108 and comprising at least one aperture extending from the interior space to the exterior space. The at least one aperture may be exemplified by the eyeball apertures 12 in the preferred embodiment or both the eyeball apertures and the eyelash apertures 13 in the alternative embodiment, for example.

The toy combination further comprises a first actuator mechanism mounted within the interior space of the head formation and is configured to move at least one element relative to the at least one aperture to alter at least a visual appearance of the head formation at the at least one aperture. The first actuator mechanism may, for example comprise an eyeball formation as at 45 and/or eyelash elements as at 18. The eyeball formation 45 effects a change in visual appearance at the eyeball apertures 12 and the eyelash elements 18 effect a change in visual appearance at either the eyeball apertures or the eyelash apertures 13. In a preferred application, the eyeball formation 45 and the eyelash elements 18 are movable between a relaxed (gaze) configuration 103 and an actuated (gaze) configuration 104. Differing eye colors as at hatch markings 21 and 22 and differing eyelash lengths as at 101 and 102 respectively correspond with the relaxed and actuated configurations 103 and 104 in some embodiments.

The toy combination further comprises at least one a head-adorning accessory feature as variously exemplified by the basic wig accessory 24, the basic wig accessory 24′, or the feature wig assembly 11 comprising either the lower wig base 48 or the lower wig base 48′. The head-adorning accessory feature is attachable to the head formation and in some embodiments comprises a second actuator mechanism, which second actuator mechanism is cooperable with the first actuator mechanism to direct the first actuator mechanism into the actuated configuration for altering at least the visual appearance when the head-adorning accessory feature is attached to the head formation.

In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism may comprise a lever mechanism and the second mechanism may comprise a post. The post is engageable with the lever mechanism for displacing the lever mechanism to alter the visual appearance. In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism comprises first and second pivot axes as exemplified by the hammer pivot axis 106 and the eyeball pivot axis 107. The first and second pivot axes extend in parallel relation to one another and are cooperably pivotable in opposite directions for altering the visual appearance. In this regard, the reader is redirected to FIGS. 17, 17A, 19 and 19A showing oppositely directed pivotal motion at arrows 113 and 111.

In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism may comprise at least one rotatable body as exemplified by eyeball bodies 32. Each of the rotatable eyeball bodies 32 comprises a first exposable portion as at lower iris portion 44 and a second exposable portion as at upper iris portion 43. The first exposable portion is exposed at the exterior space when directed into a relaxed configuration and the second exposable portion is exposed at the exterior space when directed into an actuated configuration. In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism may comprise a return mechanism, which return mechanism comprises a resilient member. The resilient member is actuated when the first actuator mechanism is directed into the actuated configuration. The resilient member returns the first actuator mechanism to the relaxed configuration when the head-adorning accessory feature is removed from the head formation or when the hammer-depressing force 105 is removed from the hammer element 20.

In some embodiments, the head-adorning accessory feature may comprise a feature reveal portion as at 47, which feature reveal portion 47 is movable intermediate a feature hidden configuration as at 118 and a feature revealed configuration as at 117. The feature revealed configuration 117 essentially exposes secondary accessories, and the feature hidden configuration visually blends the exterior rear surface 53 of the feature reveal portion 47 with the head-adorning accessory feature as, for example, via similar textured hair 46 on both the exterior rear surface 53 and the upper wig accessory 49.

In some embodiments, the feature reveal portion comprises at least one removable secondary accessory as exemplified by the swing elements 55 and the birds 56. In some embodiments, at least one secondary accessory is retractably extendable from the head-adorning accessory feature as exemplified by the extendable elements 59 with ornamental ends 60. In some embodiments, a first removable secondary accessory is attachable to the at least one retractably extendable secondary accessory.

In this regard, it will be recalled that the swing elements 55 and birds 56 may be removed from the feature reveal portion and perched or supported by the extendable elements at support portions 62 whereby the ornamental ends 60 are attached to upper or alternative portions of the feature wig assembly 11. In this regard, at least one retractably extendable secondary accessory is removably attachable to the head-adorning accessory feature. In some embodiments, at least one retractably extendable secondary accessory is bendable into various configurations.

In some embodiments, the first actuator mechanism may comprise an extendable portion as exemplified by the extendable eyelash elements 18. The extendable portion is extendable from the head formation when the head-adorning accessory feature is attached to the head formation or otherwise directed into the actuated configuration 104. In some embodiments, the feature reveal portion 47 may be directed into the feature revealed configuration 117 by at least one of rotating a rotatable exterior portion exemplified by the turn piece 63 and sliding a slidable exterior portion. In some embodiments, the feature reveal portion 47 may comprise a sliding door instead of a rotatable carousel-like reveal portion. Although this feature has not been specifically illustrated, these specifications contemplate such an embodiment.

In some embodiments, the head-adorning accessory feature may be removed from the head formation and may comprises or provide at least one play feature for enabling a user to separately play therewith. In this regard, the upper wig accessory 49 may be removed from the lower wig base 48 and the user may interact with the feature reveal portion 47 removing secondary accessories such as swing elements 55 and birds 56 and extending retractably extending elements 59. In other words, the upper wig accessory 49 is itself a toy combination and may be separately played with or utilized separate and apart from the smooth scalp head formation 10.

In some embodiments, the head formation may comprise a removable head cap for enabling access to the interior space via an open posterior head portion. The head-adorning accessory feature is configured to cover the open posterior head portion or the removable head cap as comparatively depicted in FIGS. 12-13A. In a preferred application, the toy combination may be provided in the form of a basic toy combination such that a basic wig accessory either enables the relaxed configuration 103 or the actuated configuration 104. The basic wig accessory may be interchanged with a feature wig assembly for similarly enabling either the relaxed configuration 103 or the actuated configuration 104. Accordingly, in some applications, the presently disclosed subject matter contemplates a toy combination kit for enabling a user to transform external features of a head formation

The toy combination kit according to the presently disclosed subject matter may be said to essentially comprise a head formation defining an interior space from an exterior space and comprising at least one aperture extending from the interior space to the exterior space. A first actuator mechanism is mounted within the interior space defined by the head formation and is configured to move at least one element relative to the at least one aperture to alter at least a visual appearance thereof at the at least one aperture. The toy combination kit may further include at least two head-adorning accessory features.

A first head-adorning accessory feature of the at least two head-adorning accessory features is attachable to the head formation and comprises a second actuator mechanism. The second actuator mechanism is cooperable with the first actuator mechanism to direct the first actuator mechanism into an actuated configuration from a relaxed configuration for altering at least the visual appearance. A second head-adorning accessory feature of the at least two head-adorning accessory features is attachable to the head formation for maintaining the relaxed configuration. At least the first and second head-adorning accessory features are interchangeable for enabling the user to visually transform external features of the head formation.

The head formation and wig attachments attachable to the head formation are central to the presently disclosed subject matter. While the illustrations and detailed descriptions have been directed to diagrammatic depictions and an exemplary embodiment of the first complex toy combination 70, this should not be construed as limiting. The head formation can be affixed to a figurine body to complete a full doll or figurine, and the toy combination kit can further comprise fashion accessories for transforming a basic figurine or character to an alternate figurine or character. Dahlia the princess, for example, may transform to Dove the pop star, and the toy combination kit can comprise clothing and other accessories to adorn either Dahlia or Dove. Dahlia may also have a pet in the form of a dog, which dog can also be provided with a dog type head formation to which any number of wigs can be attached for effecting a similar transformation.

Another contemplated figure with a toy combination according to the presently disclosed subject matter is named Bel, who may transform by wearing a rockstar feature wig assembly 11. When the rockstar feature wig assembly 11 is attached to the smooth scalp head formation 10, the eyes change color and glittery eyelashes extend. More particularly, in a preferred embodiment, the eyeball bodies 32 rotate to effect a change in eye coloration and the eyelash elements 18 extend to the relatively long lash length 102. In the preferred embodiment, these facial transformations both occur at the eyeball apertures 12. In an alternative embodiment, the eyeball bodies 32 rotate to effect a change in eye coloration at the eyeball apertures 12 and the eyelash elements 18 extend to the to the relatively long lash length 102 at the eyelash apertures 13.

The rockstar feature wig assembly 11 may further comprise a cake themed upper wig accessory 49 with a reveal portion 47. When the reveal portion 47 is directed into a feature revealed configuration 117, an interactive component in the form of tea cup is revealed therewithin. The tea cup may be removed from the reveal portion 47. The turn piece 63 may be further directed out of alignment with the wig axis of rotation 116 to direct an interactive piece of cake with fork to be removed from the upper wig accessory 49. The tea cup and the cake with fork may then be attached to the extendable elements 59. Further, drumstick type interactive elements may be attached to the extendable elements. The interactive components may all be provided in the toy combination kit according to the presently disclosed subject matter.

Accordingly, although the toy combinations according to the presently disclosed subject matter have been described by reference to a number of embodiments, it is not intended that the toy combinations be limited thereby, but that modifications thereof are intended to be included as falling within the broad scope and spirit of the foregoing disclosure, the following claims, and the appended drawings.