Rich Franko

Title: Rich Franko: A Toy Innovation Pioneer in Seattle, WA

Introduction

Rich Franko, an inventive mind residing in Seattle, WA, has made significant contributions to the realm of toy innovations. With seven patents to his name, Franko is recognized for his creative and innovative approaches to toy designs, enhancing the play experiences for children around the world.

Latest Patents

Among his most recent inventions are two noteworthy patents. The first is the **Modular Base Units for a Toy Building Set**, which provides a versatile foundation for toy structures. This invention includes a first planar member with attachment fittings on both its top and bottom, allowing seamless integration with substructures like lattices. Additionally, the second planar member adds to the modularity with clover-leaf shaped protrusions that interlock securely with the first member's fittings, fostering imaginative play.

The second patent is the **Toy Vehicular Electromechanical Guidance Apparatus**. This innovative guidance system integrates a track or roadway on which toy vehicles operate. It features an intersection equipped with a guidance mechanism that directs the vehicles through alternate paths. Employing infrared emitters and phototransistors, the system ensures smooth navigation and safety by stopping vehicles prior to intersections and managing their movement based on timing mechanisms and presence sensing.

Career Highlights

Rich Franko works at Parvia Corporation, where he applies his inventive skills to develop cutting-edge toy technologies. His work demonstrates a deep commitment to enhancing child engagement through play. Over the years, Franko's contributions have been integral to advancing toys into more interactive and educational realms.

Collaborations

Franko has collaborated with talented coworkers, including Peter Cyrus and Steve Proctor, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes creativity and innovation in toy design. Their joint efforts have contributed to the successful development of various products that reflect the mission of nurturing imagination and creativity in play.

Conclusion

Rich Franko stands out as a prominent figure in the toy industry, making waves with his inventive spirit and dedication to creating engaging play experiences. His recent patents exemplify his talent for merging functionality with creative design, establishing him as a visionary inventor committed to pushing the boundaries of play.