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Apparatus for controlling an animated figure
   
Document Number
US Patent 5870842
Issued Date
February 16, 1999
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Abstract
An animated figure method and apparatus including an animated figure having moveable elements and a base unit for supporting the animated figure. The apparatus of the present invention includes multiple control cables, a first end of each control cable connects to a cable driver assembly or cable driver mounted on the base unit and a second end of each control cable attaches to a corresponding animated figure moveable element or assembly. The cable drivers that are attached to the base unit drive the control cables, and propel the animated figure's moveable elements. The present invention achieves detailed control of many animated figure functions using intricate control cable branching which may require many bends in the control cable. In addition, a walk mechanism provides both horizontal and vertical movement of the animated figure's feet to achieve simulated stepping movements in a very realistic manner. Further, the walk mechanism in combination with a motion base allows the animated figure of the preferred embodiment to move about a set, such as a stage, by dancing, walking, running or other movements, thereby increasing the overall animation presentation significantly.
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Apparatus for controlling an animated figure - US Patent 5870842 Drawing
Drawing from US Patent 5870842
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Number of Claims:
16
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Owner
Published
February 16, 1999
Application Number
08/641,908
Filed
May 2, 1996
US Classification
40/411   40/414 446/362
Int'l Classification
G09F   19/08   (20060101)   G09F   19/00   (20060101)  
Assistant Examiner
Attorney/Law Firm
USPTO Field of Search
40/411   40/414   40/418   40/419   40/420   446/327   446/361   446/362  
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Claims
Description
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