TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an object of variable shape, especially to a decorative sculpture-like object segmented in a special way, the segments of which are connected to one after another in a chain-like manner. The present invention further relates to a control system applicable to the object, by which the segments are movable relative to each other in an interactive way, even via the internet.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

Present-day sculptures are generally static three-dimensional forms that lack any interactive options, therefore they do not really satisfy the decorative demands of our time. There are known self-moving mobile decorative structures, which are randomly actuated e.g. via environmental effects (i.e. wind). There are also known kinetic sculptures with engine-powered periodic rotating movements, where movements are determined via the given mechanisms.

Further, there are also known prior art building toys made up of various shapes, cubes, pyramids, etc. (regular geometric shapes only), that can be built together (by placing them on top of or next to each other) in a predetermined manner or according to the user's desired plan. A disadvantage of these toys is that the parts may easily get lost and that they only offer entertainment to small kids mostly.

There are other known toys, where the toy-object is made up of segments fixed to each other in a chain-like manner. Such solutions are described by way of example in US 3,597,872, US 4,333,262, US 4,392,323 and US 4,484,406. In these known solutions, the segments are strung on an elastic cord, or are fixed to each other by means of special joints, by which arbitrary rotation of the segments is enabled relative to each other. A common disadvantage of all known segmented objects of variable shape

(e.g. toys, sculptures) is that in a base position of the object - in which the object is forming any regular shape - there are only a maximum of two different directions of sectioning surfaces established, which are arranged regularly, altemately between the two end-segments. Due to this arrangement, as well as on account of the regular shape of the base position, the sectioning surfaces define identical outline shapes on the confining surface of the object, thereby causing an extensive limitation of the decorative and visual effects that may be achieved by the object. Further, the known solutions are unsuitable to be made up into interactively operated toys or decorative objects providing a more advanced visual experience. Moreover, they do not offer a solution for an independent and effective actuation of the individual segments.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a new type of toy, decorative object, interactive sculpture on the borderline of toys and art, which enables a new interactive form of human entertainment. It is an object of the present invention to construct an object of variable shape and a control system therefore, which is exempt of the disadvantages and deficiencies of the solutions of the prior art and which holds increased visual and entertaining/educational possibilities. A further object of the present invention is to create actuating means and a control system enabling effective, interactive actuation.

The present invention is based on the recognition that if the segments are formed on the object by means of sectioning of varying shapes and/or sizes, it will provide significantly higher variability and consequently richer visual effects than the solutions of the prior art. It has been furthermore recognized, that by applying, with due consideration of the operational limitations, a control system belonging to the object, interactive decorative objects and toys may be constructed which satisfy present-day requirements.

Accordingly, the invention relates to an object of variable shape according to claim 1 , and to a control system according to claim 15. Preferred embodiments of the present invention are defined by the independent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described by means of exemplary preferred embodiments depicted by the drawings, where Fig. 1 is a schematic side view of an object of variable shape according to the present invention in base position, where the sectioning surfaces are parallel planes,

Fig. 2 is a schematic side view of an object of variable shape according to the present invention in base position, where the sectioning surfaces are angular planes,

Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of an object of variable shape according to the present invention in base position, where the sectioning surfaces are planes, which close angles of alternating directions, Fig. 4 is a schematic side view of an object of variable shape according to the present invention in base position, where the sectioning surfaces are rotational surfaces,

Fig. 5 is a schematic three-dimensional view of an object of variable shape according to the present invention having an arched sectioning surface, in a position, where one segment is displaced,

Fig. 6A is a perspective view of a decorative object according to the present invention in base position, having a standing, plum pit based cone shape,

Fig. 6B is a perspective view of the object in Fig. 6A with displaced segments, Fig. 6C is a view of the object in Fig. 6A having segments coveringly displaced, in partial section,

Fig. 7 is a schematic section of a detail of a stationary object of variable shape according to the invention having motor driven rotating means,

Fig. 8 is a schematic section showing another implementation of the rotating means,

Fig. 9 is a schematic section of a hand-operated object of variable shape,

Fig. 10 is a schematic section of an alternate hand-operated object of variable shape,

Fig.11 is a schematic partial view of yet another hand-operated object of variable shape, in partial section,

Figs. 12A-C are three-dimensional views showing an object of variable shape according to the present invention in various positions, where the sectioning surfaces are annular surfaces rotating on each other, - A -

Fig. 13 is a schematic partial section of the operation of the embodiment shown in Figs. 12A-C,

Figs. 14A-C are three-dimensional views of a hangable embodiment of an object of variable shape according to the invention shown in various positions, Figs. 15A-C are three-dimensional views of an embodiment of the object of variable shape according to the invention shown in various positions, the embodiment being capable to move,

Figs. 16A-D are schematic three-dimensional views showing the base position as well as three additional coveringly rotated positions of another exemplary standing embodiment,

Fig. 17 is a scheme of an exemplary user interface appearing on a remote control terminal,

Figs. 18A-C show three positions of a detail of the object operated by the user interface according to Fig. 17 with complementary visual effects, and Fig. 19 is a theoretic scheme of the control enabling interactive actuation of the object according to the present invention.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

By exploiting present-day technological possibilities, the solution according to the present invention provides A novel system of means representing significant advancement, which will in a thought-provoking manner entertain and thereby ..educate" its users.

The solution according to the present invention may preferably be arranged as an integrated system, which system enables maximum consideration of the human, natural, and technical environment of the sculptures, and the processing of the inputs coming therefrom by means of a special computer program. By way of example, the object of variable shape according to the present invention may be operated as a ..seeing" robot or may imitate the movements of a living creature.

The invention completes the given task by means of a specially segmented three-dimensional form having artistic and design qualities (indifferent of size e.g.

Jand art", Jnterieur design" or even controlled technical or manual toy), wherein the adjoining components, the contacting surfaces rotated or slid on each other are planes or rotational surfaces, and wherein based on the mechanical construction of the elements, practically an unlimited number of identical direction rotation or cyclic displacement is allowed for the interactively interfering person. In the case of collective control of a plurality of three-dimensional forms, communication is possible amongst them as well as with the operator(s). According to the invention, the sectioning surfaces may not only be (basic) two-dimensional shapes but also arbitrary shapes, which may be arranged in a pre-determined manner (parallel, angular or in alternate directions) relative to one- another.

By way of example, the invention shown in Fig. 1 is an object of variable shape comprising segments 10, which segments are arranged successively, adjoining each other along sectioning surfaces 11 which divide the object into segments 10, and are arranged movably along the sectioning surfaces 11 relative to each other. At the individual sectioning surfaces 11 , the sectioning outline formed externally on the object and defined by the sectioning surface constitutes an outline shape 12 belonging to the given sectioning surface. The outline shape 12 is essentially the rim of the section-sides of the segments 10 facing each other, the congruent two- or three-dimensional outline of the segments. Of course, this sectioning outline does not necessarily appear on the confining surface of the object, but relates to each and every outline resulting from the sectioning of the global confining surface and an imaginary sectioning surface. The invention is characterized by that the outline shapes 12 belonging to at least two sectioning surfaces 11 have sizes and/or shapes different from each other.

By means of the different outline shapes 12, the invention provides novel objects of increased visual and entertainment effect, by way of example toy- objects or public sculptures. Significant advancement is provided as opposed to the solutions of the prior art by segmenting via different boundary surfaces, which diverts from the general mentality favoring regular segmenting, and thereby results in an unexpected visual and entertainment/educational surplus.

Accordingly, Fig. 1 shows the schematic side view of the object of variable shape according to the present invention in base position, wherein the sectioning surfaces 11 are parallel planes. Base position in the present patent application means that the segments 10 of the object of variable shape take up a position relative to each other in such a way that the overall confining surface has the least possible ridge, protrusion. In the base positions of the illustrated preferred embodiments, the confining surfaces define a cone-like, cylinder-like, sphere-like, prism-like or in the given case an amorphous, relatively regular shape. Fig. 1 demonstrates this latter type, which can be considered as a relatively regular amorphous shape. The base position is further characterized by that the two end segments of the successively arranged segments 10 define a longitudinal direction, with which at least a part of, preferably all of, the sectioning surfaces 11 close an angle other than perpendicular. By these oblique sectioning surfaces 11 it can be achieved for the object of variable shape to provide a creative toy, decorative object of increased visual experience by means of rotating the segments 10 relative to each other.

In a way as seen in Fig. 1 in the preferred embodiment of the invention, in at least a part of the subsequent segments 10 the outline shapes 12 ,,cut" by the sectioning surfaces 1 1 from the confining surface belonging to the subsequent sectioning surfaces 1 1 decrease or increase in size by order of succession. In a manner as will be seen later, this can be advantageous from a static or decorative point of view with regard to objects of variable shape arranged as stationary public sculptures.

Fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of an object of variable shape according to the present invention in a base position, wherein the sectioning surfaces 11 are angular planes. This embodiment provides additional decorative variability and enables the forming of even more exciting shapes.

Fig. 3 shows a schematic side view of an object of variable shape according to the present invention in base position, wherein the sectioning surfaces 1 1 are planes, which close angles of alternating directions with each other. This embodiment allows for the forming of shapes exhibiting visual breaks of greater angles as well.

Fig. 4 shows a schematic side view of an object of variable shape according to the invention in base position, wherein the sectioning surfaces 1 1 are rotational surfaces. These rotational sectioning surfaces 11 allow for the neighboring segments 10 to turn relative to each other along a rotational axis perpendicular to the sectioning surface. In these embodiments, among the segment positions rotated or displaced relative to each other, there are always segment positions in which the external confining surface of the object is exempt of ,,stair-like" protrusions, that is, the segments 10 join each other with identical surface norms or by a broken transition. Fig. 5 shows a schematic three-dimensional view of an object of variable shape according to the present invention formed with arched rotational sectioning surfaces 1 1 , in a position wherein one segment is displaced. According to one especially preferred embodiment, an outline shape 12s belonging to the rotational sectioning surface 11 is arranged rotation symmetrical to the rotational axis. The rotation symmetrical outline shapes 12s may cover each other in more than one position of rotation. This way, by means of the outline shapes 12s arranged coveringly at the individual sectioning surfaces 11 , the object of variable shape can attain a position, wherein the rotations result in a state of the object forming the illusion of being monolithic, i.e. of being one single piece. Fig. 6A shows a perspective view of a standing decorative object in base position. The confining surface 13 of the object in base position is cone-shaped, the base of which cone has a plum pit shape. This shape has excellent static parameters, thus it is especially preferable for the forming of public decorative objects. In this embodiment each of the outline shapes 12s is rotation symmetrical. The sectioning surfaces in this case are planes, and the elements may be rotated in a manner so that they become fully covered in two different positions. At this point the surface-parts confining the object are joined to each other without stair- like protrusions, with identical surface norms and without transition, thereby forming a even confining surface 13. Fig. 6B shows a perspective view of the object according to Fig. 6A with displaced segments. The non-fully covered, ,,non-regular" positions of transformation provide an opportunity for the demonstration of series, rise, natural and geometric sequences of various rhythms, or even for exhibiting fractal assumptions. The outline shapes 12s in this exemplary arrangement have plum pit shapes.

Fig. 6C shows the object according to 6A having segments rotated into coverage. By means of the segments 10 arranged coveringly, abstract ,,quasi- geometric" forms and ..organic" shapes can be created, wherein the confining surface 13 is exempt of ,,stair-like" protrusions. According to the partial section seen in the figure, the individual segments 10 are adjoined to each other by a linking mechanism 14. Our experiences show that both positions, the one which seems segmented according to Fig. 6B as well as the other arranged coveringly according to Fig. 6C provide an eye-catching sight and an increased visual experience. Pursuant to the invention, therefore, the objects of variable shapes may not only comprise coveringly arranged positions, but also intermediate positions exhibiting segmentation.

The object of variable shape according to the invention may be movable by human power as well, wherein the object is arranged as a manually movable toy or a public sculpture, for example movable by one person or a plurality of persons. One especially preferred embodiment of the present invention, however, comprises motor-driven rotating means.

Fig. 7 shows a schematic section of a detail of the stationary object of variable shape according to the invention, which comprises motor-driven rotating means. The rotating means preferably comprise a driving unit 15, a pipe-like first driving element 16 linking it with a first segment 10, as well as a flexible second driving element 16' leading through the first driving element 16 and linking the driving unit 15 with the second segment 10' following the first segment 10. The object is preferably linked to a base 17 and is arranged stationary; wherein the driving unit 15 may advisably be located in the base 17. The flexible driving elements 16, 16', 16" may be arranged for moving the segments 10, 10', 10" etc. following each other upwardly in a successive order. The driving elements 16, 16', 16" are inserted into each other in a way as seen in the figure; the final driving element 16" is advisably arranged as a link rod. The flexible pipe-like driving elements 16, 16' may be arranged as flexible pipes or with cardan-connection pipe-sections.

Fig. 8 shows a schematic sectional view of a preferred embodiment, wherein the rotating means comprise separate driving units 15, 15' placed in the individual segments 10. This embodiment comprises segments 10, 10', 10" adjoining each other via rim-embedding in a manner as seen in the figure. The driving unit 15 placed in the first segment 10 is arranged for actuating the rim part 18' of the second segment 10'. Driving is arranged relative to every segment pair in the same manner, i.e. the driving units 15, 15' are arranged one after the other so as to actuate the rim parts 18', 18" of the subsequent segments 10', 10".

The driving units 15, 15' may preferably be formed as stepping motors, AC motors or DC motors or as any other electrical operating device. The driving units 15, 15' may also be formed as magnetic field generating stationary motor parts driving the other segments being (stepping motor) rotating parts. The driving units 15, 15' take up energy required for operation from an electric system. In an especially preferred embodiment of the present invention formed as a public sculpture, at least a part of the energy may be obtained from a device suitable for using renewable energy, preferably by a windmill, or a device transforming water energy or by a solar cell. One such windmill or solar cell may be advisably located at the top of the upwardly extending object of variable shape, which may also provide additional decorative effect, visual experience.

Fig. 9 shows a schematic sectional view of a manually movable object of variable shape. In a manner as seen in the figure, the sectioning surfaces separating the individual segments 10, 10' form an outline shape, which is rotation symmetric to a rotational axis 19. The embodiment demonstrated in Fig. 9 is arranged with rim-embedding, which provides a relatively simple and cost effective solution with regard to manual toys. A schematic sectional view of another manually movable object of variable shape is depicted in Fig. 10. In this embodiment, the segments 10, 10', 10" are coupled to each other by means of shape-retaining joints, which joints are placed one after another concentric with the rotational axes 19, 19', 19". This embodiment is also advantageous on account of the simple and cost-effective production. Fig. 11 shows a detail in partial cross-section of another manually operated embodiment formed again by means of joints. In this embodiment - as opposed to the latter two embodiments - the rotational axis 19 is not located in the middle of the resultant outline shape, i.e. the individual sectioning outline shapes cannot be arranged coveringly in the rotated position of the segments 10. This embodiment, therefore, is provided with segmented visual effects in positions other than the base position, where it is arranged coveringly, which in certain applications may mean exceptional decorative qualities. Figs. 12A-C illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in which the sectioning surfaces are annular surfaces rotating on each other. The three-dimensional views show the various positions of the object of variable shape. The segments 10 rotating on each other are light-weight due to the annular arrangement, i.e. are suited to form objects of lesser total weight. The various angles of the sectioning surfaces 11 form unrealistic deviations, thereby providing a diverse transformation of three-dimensional public art.

Fig. 13 illustrates a schematic partial section of the operation of the embodiment according to Figs. 12A-C. In a manner as demonstrated in the figure, the driving units 15, 15' are arranged in the hollow annular shapes subsequently for actuating the next rim parts of the rings of the respective next segments. The individual segments 10, 10' can rotate around the respective rotational axes 19, 19'.

Figs. 14A-C demonstrate various positions of another embodiment, which preferably can be placed hanging. In case of hanging, in the base position of the object, suspension is arranged in an appropriate point in a manner, wherein the base position takes up a visually effective position, defined by its center of mass. The confining surface 13 of the segments 10 forms a solid decorative object lacking discontinuity or stair-like protrusions. By rotating the individual segments 10, the position of the center of mass may drift, causing a three-dimensional rotation or displacement of the entire object. By this way, additional visual experience can be achieved. The figures well demonstrate the diversity of shapes of organic character that can be achieved by means of the sectioning surfaces 11 according to the invention. Figs. 15A-C illustrate a preferred embodiment of the invention, which can move. The various positions demonstrated in the figures may be achieved via the appropriate rotation of the individual segments 10. On the support surface, the object is capable of achieving a rolling, crawling movement by means of the appropriate rotation of the individual segments 10 and by the shift of the center of mass. By way of example, this embodiment may be suitable for creating remotely controlled toys.

Figs. 16A-D show schematic three-dimensional views of another exemplary preferred embodiment in base position as well as in three additional positions, wherein it is rotated coveringly. In this exemplary preferred embodiment, the outline shapes 12 are two-dimensional squares and the three-dimensional shape created by the external confining surface 13 is a quasi-geometric tetragonal prism. This embodiment may practically be of remarkable advantage for public sculptures. By means of the coveringly formed rotational positions, the sculpture has in all of its positions the illusion of being monolithic, i.e. being of one solid piece. The figures clearly demonstrate the diversity of characters the visual imagery can exhibit, achieved by means of rotating the segments 10 along the sectioning surfaces 1 1 , thereby transforming the abstract shapes into organic ones. The public sculpture demonstrated in Figs. 16A-D is preferably arranged as a remotely controlled one.

Fig. 17 shows an exemplary user interface suitable for such remote control. The user interface can be displayed on any suitable computer device or graphic workstation. A field 20 of the interface displays the saved starting position, and a field 21 preferably displays the desired end position. A field 22 serves for inputting actuation. In a rotating field 22 it is clearly demonstrated that the segments of the present invention move in the depicted direction of rotation by means of a touch indicated as a fingerprint 28 on the work station. A field 23 shows a momentary visual image recorded by a web camera; whereby the system can broadcast the actual movement by means of an on-site web camera, or in certain cases record it. The picture may be viewed in the web camera field 23, can be reached in an arbitrary point of the system, and can be shared via email with other interested parties. A field 24 serves to send commands of actuation, a field 25 serves to create visual color effects, and a field 26 serves to request help regarding control. Figs. 18A-C show three positions of a detail of an object operated by the user interface according to Fig. 17, complemented by additional visual effects. The external confining surface 13 of the object is intermitted by openings 27 for outputting the various complementary effects. Fig. 18A demonstrates a segmented position, Fig. 18B demonstrates smoke and/or laser effect launchable from the opening 27 arranged in the upper segment 10, Fig. 18C shows varying color effects (e.g. white, yellow, blue, controlled transitions and blends) displayed in the openings 27 of the upmost segment 27. Fig. 19 demonstrates the theoretic scheme of the control system, which enables the interactive actuation of an object of variable shape according to the invention, preferably a public sculpture. The figure shows the object in base position, wherein the confining surface 13 is essentially exempt of discontinuity or protrusions, and displays a relatively regular prismatic form, and wherein continues pattern is provided on the confining surface 13. By means of patterned surfaces, the visual effects attained by the object according to the present invention may be further increased, therefore, by rotating, displacing the segments not only the global shape but also the surface pattern can be set. The computer control system illustrated in the figure comprises a computerized control means 30 effectuating the rotating means, an input device for inputting the control commands, as well as a computer program stored in the computerized control means 30 to bar or override completion of a control command if any inputted control command would result in a prohibited static, dynamic and/or aesthetic position. With regard to a public sculpture, prohibited static position would be any instable position, wherein the center of mass would fall outside of the support surface, or any position interfering with that of a neighbouring object or person. A prohibited dynamic state can be the reaching of an excessive speed, acceleration, or slowing down, while prohibited aesthetic state would be the display of any sign offending public morals.

Preferably the object is equipped with sensors connected to the computerized control means serving to sense the static, dynamic and/or environmental parameters.

Actuation of the object is broadcasted via a web camera 29. In a manner as depicted in the figure the device suitable for inputting the commands may be a portable computer 31 , a stationary computer terminal 32, a mobile phone 33, an internet webpage 34, a movement detecting means 35 and/or an additional another decorative object in communicating connection with the computerized control means 30. By way of example, the movement detecting means may comprise sensors applied onto a living person, serving to imitate human movements, i.e. sensing human gestures.

The object of variable shape according to the invention, e.g. a public sculpture, is sliced with a sufficient number of sectioning surfaces 11 so that the so-created segments can provide 13 an absorbing education and entertainment experience by means of shape transitions generated on the external confining surface. By means of the various internal coupling mechanisms arranged within the three-dimensional forms, the partial elements, segments 10 are operated from outside, preferably independently relative to the base, as a point of reference.

The operators may control and actuate these decorative objects under appropriate security arrangements interactively, directly on site or via internet or even by means of a mobile phone 33. More than one actuation may be permitted simultaneously. By means of a computer program especially developed for this purpose, the object may be easily operated by essentially anyone e.g. via a homepage, through graphic symbols, in an understandable manner without requiring any special programming knowledge. The actuation of the sculptures may be observed through a web camera 29, and may be interactively controlled and documented through a server. The applied driving mechanisms may utilize all kinds of energy sources

(electric, hydraulic, etc.), however, renewable energy (wind, water, solar, power exerted by human groups) may be used as source (extra energy) tapped and integrated as an integral part of the object. Thus we can minimize conventional energy sources by not only at the control but also via the energy use. Preferably, by a special program and by means of the sensors, the system control ensures continuous communication amongst the partial units of the object, and provides for the physical (static and dynamic), information technology, aesthetic goals to be achieved whilst maintaining the limits thereof.

Preferably, the mechanic and security arrangements of the object according to the present invention is such that it could not cause any harm to itself, its operators, or observers. For this reason the control system preferably ensures:

- avoidance, barring of undesired events, and continuous control of the position,

- avoidance of collisions, vibration,

- avoidance of undesired dynamic overload generated from the resultant acceleration of the elements,

- avoidance of imprudent human activities,

- avoidance and blunting of abrupt stop. Interactivity attained by means of the object of variable shape according to the present invention may take place in various ways, by way of example:

- a sculpture is operated by one person in such a way that the partial elements of the unit are being actuated one after another or simultaneously by means of the control unit developed especially for this purpose,

- several persons take part simultaneously in the operation, if sufficient numbers of operable partial elements are provided in the system,

- if, for example via mobile phone or internet, a greater number of persons wishing to interfere to operate the same sculpture, then the control program will process the control commands in a previously determined way, preferably by sequencing them and examining the respective authorizations, also relative to each other.

The exemplary types of control according to the above are as follows:

- terminal - internet, sub-station,

- mobile phone

- reactor (delayed imitation, reflection),

- implementation of pre-recorded movements,

- selection (selection or ranking according to various parameters), - statistical (simultaneous processing of large numbers of interfering parties),

- interferer of a special arrangement (e.g. control signal generated on the basis of three-dimensional observing and movement detection).

The major types of applied exemplary sensors:

- position observing (e.g. for establishing base position, or for synchronized movement of several sculptures),

- security (e.g. observing collision or acceleration),

- observing the environment (e.g. weather, renewable energy source).

The energy and information may be transmitted to the object according to the present invention by way of conventional cables (e.g. by means of sliding sensors) as well as via wireless (e.g. electromagnetic, wifi) connection. Actuation of the segments 10 may by way of example include mechanically limited displacement, rotation (e.g. along an axis, interconnected rings), or sliding (along one plane or on an arched surface). The solution according to the present invention is characterized by an arrangement wherein the cables and mechanisms transmitting the control signals necessary for actuation and/or the partially or fully utilized renewable energy by means of ..through channels" leading through the internal linking mechanisms, not obstructing the freedom of actuation. Actuation of the objects according to the present invention is preferably complemented by various light, sound, laser, as well as other effects giving emphasize in an interactively controlled way.

Therefore, according to the present invention the outline shapes belonging to at least two sectioning surfaces preferably differ in size and/or shape. This can be achieved by slicing varying cross-sectional geometrical shapes lengthwise, preferably in an angle to the longitudinal direction, in a specific case by applying sectioning planes of varying angular offsets. The invention further applies to any type of actuation of the segments 10, i.e. rotation, sliding, or the combination thereof, effected relative to each other along the sectioning surface 11. The segments 10 may be coupled to each other in a shape locking or force locking manner.

The present invention naturally is not limited to the demonstrated exemplary embodiments, but may also include further variations, alterations and improvements within the scope defined by the claims.