Method to detect installed module and select corresponding behavior
US6595780B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 13, 2001 |
| Grant date | Jul 22, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 19, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA63H33/00
- WIPO fieldFurniture, games
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A method and apparatus for identifying a module installed in a base from a plurality of different modules and selecting a set of functions corresponding to the installed module. A preferred embodiment is the Intelli-Table™ toy that includes three modules, each of which can be installed into an annular channel in the base. When a module is installed, a unique pattern of recesses or flat surfaces on the bottom of the module is detected by a first set of switches in the channel. Based on the unique state of these switches, the base selects a set of functions corresponding to the installed module. Each module includes a plurality of different movable elements that activate a second set of switches in the base. Moving an element activates a switch, causing the base to perform a function unique to that element and to the module installed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.