Mattel, Inc.

Scott E Wilger

Peter E Teel

James P Zielinski

James A Molina

Kenny Y W Lui

Presented herein are techniques in which the proximity of an object to a toy is determined using a photosensor (photo sensor) circuit. The proximity is classified/categorized as falling into one of a plurality of different proximity ranges. The proximity range in which the object is located is mapped to one or more audible or visual outputs, where the audible or visual outputs are adjusted/varied as the relative proximity of the object to the toy changes.

Toy with proximity-based interactive features

A stand includes a supporting structure for supporting a doll and an electrostatic charge generating device supported by the supporting structure for causing hair of the doll to move when the doll is supported by the supporting structure and the electrostatic charge generating device is activated. A method of using a stand for a doll includes supporting the doll with a supporting structure of the stand and activating an electrostatic charge generating device that is supported by the supporting structure to cause hair of the doll to move. The supporting structure may include a conductive member made of carbon-impregnated plastic for contacting the doll and for transferring charge generated by the electrostatic charge generating device to the doll. The conductive member may be moveable in response to a positioning of the doll to provide for user safety. The stand may also include an electrical disconnect mechanism for user safety.

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Redondo Beach, CA, United States of America

Scott E Wilger