ARTICULATING SYSTEM

Abstract

The invention discloses an articulating system comprising one or more objects, one or more joining modules, a motion inducing module, a power source and a control module. Each object comprises one or more bobbling components, and the bobbling components are movably connected to the object by the joining module. The motion inducing module comprises at least one first component disposed proximal to the joining module. The first component is an electromagnet. The power source module is configured to supply power to the electromagnet. The control module is configured to control the power source module to supply power to the motion inducing module, to create a magnetic field at the electromagnet, which compresses the joining module. The control module is further configured to turn off the power supply that would release the joining module, thereby inducing movement to the bobbling component proximal to the joining module.

Claims

1. An articulating system, comprising: one or more objects, each object comprises one or more bobbling components; one or more joining modules movably connecting each bobbling component to the respective object; a motion inducing module comprises a first component, wherein the first component is a magnetic component, wherein the magnetic component is disposed proximal to the one or more joining modules; a power source module configured to supply power to the magnetic component, a control module in communication with the power source module, the control module is configured to control the power source module to supply power to the motion inducing module, the power supply to the first component creates a magnetic field that moves the one or more joining modules, thereby inducing movement to the one or more bobbling components proximal to the one or more joining modules, and a storage module in communication with the control module, the storage module stores user information comprising characteristics of one or more users including sound data, image data, movement data of the user; the user information further comprising bobble sequence information comprising one or more bobble sequences and one or more bobble sequences for each user, one or more audios, one or more light patterns, and one or more audios and light patterns for each user.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the magnetic component is an electromagnet, the one or more joining modules comprising a spring, the spring is disposed proximal to the electromagnet and movably connects the one or more bobbling components to the one or more objects.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the control module is configured to turn on the power supply to generate an attracting force from the electromagnet and turn off the power supply to remove the attraction force, the attraction force compresses the one or more joining modules and the removal of attraction force decompresses the one or more joining modules, thereby inducing movement to the one or more bobbling components.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the one or more bobbling components comprises two or more bobbling components connected together and associated with the one or more objects, the two or more bobbling components are associated with the magnetic component to enable movement of the connected bobbling components.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more joining modules comprises one or more components selected from a group comprising, one or more magnets, one or more electromagnets, an electromechanical device, a spring, a conical spring, a leaf spring, a compression spring, a torsional spring, a garter spring, a hinge joint, a pivot joint, a prismatic joint, a ball-socket joint, a hook and loop component, a conical component, or a component balanced on a post.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprises a second component disposed proximal to the first component and the one or more objects respective of the one or more bobbling components associated with the first component and another bobbling component of another object.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the second magnetic component is a non-magnetic component.

8. The system of claim 6, wherein the second magnetic component comprises at least one of a ferromagnetic component, permanent magnet, the electromagnet, and/or a metal component.

9. The system of claim 6, wherein the control module is configured to control supply of power to the motion inducing module such that a first polarity of the first component is opposite to a second polarity of the second component, the control module is configured to intermittingly alter the first polarity and the second polarity by the supply of electrical power to generate at least one of an attraction force and a repulsion force between the first component and the second component, thereby inducing a sequence of movement to the one or more bobbling components.

10. The system of claim 9, further comprises one or more actuators in communication with the control module and the motion inducing module, the one or more actuators are configured to control the polarity and magnetic field associated with the magnetic components.

11. The system of claim 1, further comprises one or more sensors in communication with the control module, the one or more sensors is configured to detect one or more characteristics of a user proximal to the objects, the control module is configured to control the power supply to enable the one or more bobbling components to move in at least one sequence of movement corresponding to the user.

12. The system of claim 11, further comprises one or more output devices in communication with the control module, the output devices comprise an audio device and a light source device, the control module is configured to control the audio device to emit audio, control the light source device to emit light of one or more wavelengths, control the audio device to emit an audio corresponding to the user proximal to the objects and control the light source device to emit a light pattern corresponding to the user proximal to the objects.

13. The system of claim 12, further comprises a computing device in communication with the storage module, the control module and the communication module via a network, the computing device comprises a memory storing one or more program modules and a processor configured to execute the program modules, the computing device is configured to control the output device to emit light of one or more wavelengths and emit audio, and control the sequence of movement of the one or more bobbling components.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the computing device is configured to control the one or more bobbling components to move in a desired sequence of movement, control the audio device to play a desired audio and control the light device to emit a desired light pattern, and control a duration of the sequence of movement of the one or more bobbling components.

15. The system of claim 14, further comprises a user device in communication with the computing device via the network, the computing device is configured to receive one or more input data from the user device to execute the program modules to control the one or more objects.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the control module is configured to control a duration of the sequence of movement of the one or more bobbling components.

17. The system of claim 11, wherein the one or more sensors include at least one of light sensor, image sensor and motion sensor.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the motion inducing module comprises an electromechanical system.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The description of the illustrative embodiments can be read in conjunction with the accompanying figures. It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements illustrated in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements are exaggerated relative to other elements. Embodiments incorporating teachings of the present disclosure are shown and described with respect to the figures presented herein, in which:

[0028] FIG. 1 exemplarily illustrates an articulating system to control the movement of at least one bobbling component of the articulating system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 2 exemplarily illustrates an articulating system to control the movement of at least two bobbling components of the articulating system, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIG. 3 exemplarily illustrates an articulating system comprising two human figures performing boxing, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 4 exemplarily illustrates an articulating system of FIG. 3, where the bobbling components are attached to each other using the attached magnetic components, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 5 exemplarily illustrates an articulating system comprising a motion inducing module attached to one bobbling component, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 6 exemplarily illustrates an articulating system comprising a motion inducing module attached to another bobbling component, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIG. 7 exemplarily illustrates an articulating system comprising a motion inducing module attached to each bobbling component, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 8 exemplarily illustrates an articulating system comprising two human figures performing handshake, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 9 exemplarily illustrates an articulating system, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 10 exemplarily illustrates a computer-implemented network environment for controlling the movement of a bobbling component, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 11 exemplarily illustrates a block diagram of a system for facilitating automatic bobbling of at least one bobbling component, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 12 exemplarily illustrates a computing device of FIG. 9, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

[0040] A description of embodiments of the present invention will now be given with reference to the Figures. It is expected that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as explanatory and not restrictive.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, the system 100 comprises one or more objects 102 having one or more bobbling components 104. One or more objects 102 comprises a first object 102 having one or more first bobbling components 104. The system further comprises one or more joining modules 106. The joining modules 106 comprises a first joining module 106. In one embodiment, the object 102 is a human figure and the bobbling component 104 is a head of the respective human figure. In this embodiment, the system 100 comprises at least one object 102, for example, a bobble doll.

[0042] The first joining module 106 movably connects the first bobbling component 104 to the first object 102. The first joining module 106 is disposed between a first end of the first object and a first end of the first bobbling component 104. In one embodiment, the system 100 further comprises an electromechanical device including, but not limited to, electric motor, solenoid, and electromagnet.

[0043] The system 100 further comprises a motion inducing module. In one embodiment, the motion inducing module is embedded in the object 102 and bobbling components 104. The motion inducing module comprises at least two magnetic components (108, 110) including a first component 108 and a second component 110.

[0044] The first component 108 is disposed at the first end 102A of the first object 102 and the second component 110 is disposed at the first end 104A of the first bobbling component. The motion inducing module is configured to move the first bobbling component 104 in any desired direction of motion. The direction of motion includes an axis of motion.

[0045] In an embodiment, the motion inducing module is configured to initiate bobbling of the first bobbling component 104. In another embodiment, the motion inducing module is configured to sustain bobbling of the first bobbling component 104.

[0046] The motion inducing module comprises at least one of electromagnets, metal objects, permanent magnets, ferromagnetic component. The motion inducing modules are embedded during production or integrated into any type of existing bobble doll. Further, the first component 108 and the second component 110 could be integrated into any type of existing bobble doll as an aftermarket retrofit kit to make the existing bobble doll bobble.

[0047] In one embodiment, the first component 108 is an electromagnet and the second component 110 is an armature plate. In another embodiment the first component 108 is an electromagnet and the second component 110 is at least one of electromagnets, metal objects, permanent magnets, and ferromagnetic component.

[0048] The first component 108 comprises a first polarity and the second component 110 comprises a second polarity. The first polarity is opposite to the of second polarity. A processor is configured to intermittingly alter the first polarity and the second polarity by the supply of electrical power to generate at least one of an attraction force and a repulsion force between the first component 108 and the second component 110. The attraction and repulsion of the first component 108 and second component 110 induce a sequence of movement to the bobbling components 104. The motion inducing module is configured to provide bobbling in any type of bobble doll on demand.

[0049] Further, the first joining module 106 compresses when the first component 108 and the second component 110 are attracted to each other. The first joining module 106 decompresses when the first component 108 and second component 1 10 are released or repelled from each other. In one embodiment, the first component 108 is an electromagnet and a second component 110 is a metal component. When a control module supplies power to the electromagnet, the electromagnet attracts the metal component, which compresses the joining module 106. When the control module turns off the supply to the electromagnet, the joining module 106 decompresses. The compressing and decompressing of the first joining module 106 is configured to initiate the bobbling of the first bobbling component 104. Further, the compressing and decompressing of the first joining module 106 is configured to sustain the bobbling of the first bobbling component 104. The motion inducing module is programmable in a variety of ways. For example, the motion inducing module is configured to cause bobbling for X seconds or minutes of bobble, every X seconds or minutes.

[0050] In another embodiment, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are magnetic components. In one embodiment, the magnetic component includes at least one of electromagnet, ferromagnetic component, metal component and permanent magnet component. When the power supply is turned on, the first component 108 could have a polarity opposite to the second component 110. Then, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are attracted to each other, which enables compression of the joining module 106 and movement of the bobbling component 104. When the power supply is turned off, the joining module 106 decompresses due to the absence of the magnetic field.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 2, the system 200 comprises one or more objects 102 having one or more bobbling components (104, 112). One or more objects 102 comprises a first object 102 having one or more first bobbling components (104, 112). The system 200 further comprises one or more joining modules (106, 114). In one embodiment, the object is a human figure and the bobbling components are the two limbs of the respective human figure. The first component 108 and the second component 110 enables movement of the bobble component (104, 112). The first component 108 is disposed at the first end 102A of the object 102 and the second component 110 is disposed at the first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104. The first component 108 is disposed at the second end 102B of the object 102 and the second component 110 is disposed at the first end 112A of the first bobbling component 112. Similar to FIG. 1, the joining module (106, 114) compresses and decompresses to move the bobbling components (104, 1 12).

[0052] The system (100, 200) further comprises a power source module electrically connected to the motion inducing module. The power source module is configured to supply power to the motion inducing module. In one embodiment, the power source module comprises one or more batteries. In another embodiment, the power source module comprises one or more rechargeable batteries. In yet another embodiment, the power source module comprises a renewable power source. In yet another embodiment, the power source module comprises a solar power source. In yet another embodiment, the power source module comprises line voltage. The power source module is embedded within the object 102. In one embodiment, the power source module is separate from the object 102. In another embodiment, the power source module is remote from the object 102.

[0053] The system (100, 200) further comprises one or more sensors and one or more actuators. In one embodiment, the sensors and the actuators are embedded in the object. In another embodiment, the sensors are disposed separately remote from the system (100, 200). In one embodiment, the sensor is coupled to the system (100, 200) via a wireless means, for example, a Bluetooth. The sensors include, but not limited to, an image sensor, a motion sensor and an audio sensor. The motion sensor is configured to determine the user approaching the system (100, 200). The sensor is configured to detect one or more characteristics of a user proximal to the object. The sensor is further configured to generate a sensor data including the detected characteristics of the user. The characteristics includes, but not limited to, sound, image, and movement of the user. In one embodiment, the sensor is disposed at a door of a building. The sensor is configured to detect a person entering the building and triggers the system (100, 200) to initiate the movement of bobbling components (104, 112). In another embodiment, the system (100, 200) is configured to trigger the movement of bobbling components (104, 112) from the detection of an event or occurrence.

[0054] The system (100, 200) further comprises a communication module communicatively coupled with the actuator and the sensor. Further, the communication module is configured to receive the sensor data from the sensor. Further, the system (100, 200) comprises a processing module communicatively coupled with the communication module. The system (100, 200) further comprise a storage module communicatively coupled with the communication module and the control module. The storage module stores user information comprising one or more characteristics of one or more user. The bobble sequence information comprising one or more bobble sequences and one or more bobble sequences corresponding to each user. The storage module is configured to retrieve a bobble sequence information based on the sensor data. The bobble sequence information could be used to analyze and change the configuration for the bobbling pattern as determined by a designer or owner/operator.

[0055] The processing module is configured to analyze the sensor data and generating the command based on the analysis of the sensor data. The communication module is configured to transmit the generated command to the actuator. The actuator is configured to control the polarity associated with the first component 108 and the second component 110. Further, the control of the polarity includes changing the polarity of the first component 108 and the second component 110 to produce bobbling of the first bobbling component relative to the first object 102. Alternatively, the motion inducing module is cycled between power off and power on. This causes the first component 108 and second component 110 to alternate between attracted and released from each other. Thereby, the system (100, 200) generates a pre-programmed bobble sequence.

[0056] In an embodiment, the communication module is configured to transmit the command and the sensor data to at least one user device associated with a user. Further, the user device includes, but not limited to, a smartphone, a mobile, a tablet, and a personal computer.

[0057] The system (100, 200) further comprises a user device in communication with the control module and the communication module of the object. The communication module is configured to transmit the command and the sensor data the user device. In one embodiment, the user device includes, but not limited to, a smartphone, a mobile, a tablet, and a personal computer. The user device further includes one or more sensors.

[0058] The system (100, 200) is configured to communicate wirelessly with a software platform. The software platform includes, but not limited to, a smartphone, tablet, similar device application, and a website. The communication module is configured to receive a bobbling selection from the user device.

[0059] The storage module is configured to retrieve a bobbling data corresponding to the bobbling selection. The command is generated based on the bobbling data. Further, the bobbling data includes but not limited to a sequence or pattern of bobbling of the system in various ways including on-demand bobbling, bobbling with a selectable range of bobbling motion from mild to severe, and duration of bobbling.

[0060] The system (100, 200) further comprises one or more output devices. The output devices include, but not limited to, a speaker and a light source. The bobbling data comprise an additional data corresponding to the additional output device. The additional data indicates that the user wants to produce output using the additional output device. The processing module is configured to generate an output command associated with the additional output device based on the additional data output.

[0061] Further, the communication module is configured to transmit the output command to the additional output device. Further, the additional output device is configured to generate an output based on the output command. In an instance, the speaker is configured to generate a sound based on the output command. Further, in another instance, the light source is configured to produce light based on the output command. Further, the additional output device produces the output in synchronization with the bobbling of the system (100, 200).

[0062] In addition, other types of effects are also integrated and coordinated with the bobbling effect. For example, the smartphone application plays an audio before, after, or during the bobbling of the bobbling component. The audio includes, but not limited to, voice notes by the user, and music. The music includes, but not limited to, an album music and personalized music. Further, the music is associated with a genre. Further, the sensor comprise an audio sensor configured to generate the sensor data based on detecting the audio.

[0063] Further, the system (100, 200) is configured to bobble in tune with the audio based on the command. This is used with the motion inducing module and other modules that cause bobbling without manual intervention. Further, the bobbling of the system (100, 200) is coordinated with additional features of the additional output device, such as the coordination of the bobbling motion with audio effects. These effects include, but not limited to, music and words. The application is configured to enable the user to select from a menu of audio effects, to record their own effect.

[0064] In yet another embodiment, the motion inducing module could be attached to any type of conventional bobble doll or new design bobble doll as an aftermarket retrofit kit. Further, the first component 108 is attached to the second end of the bobbling component and the second component 110 is attached to the first end of the object using a coupling mechanism. Further, the coupling mechanism includes, but not limited to, a Velcro mechanism, a glue, and a weld. Further, the motion inducing module is provided in the aftermarket retrofit kit. Further, the aftermarket retrofit kit comprises at least one sensor, at least one additional output device, the communication module, the processing module, and the storage module.

[0065] In one embodiment, the first component 108 is an electromagnet and a second component 110 is a metal component. When the control module supplies power to the electromagnet, the electromagnet attracts the metal component, which compresses the joining module 106. When the control module turns off the supply to the electromagnet, the joining module 106 decompresses. The compression and the decompression of the joining module 106 enables the movement of the bobbling component 104. The movement of the bobbling component 104 could cause another bobble component to vibrate and cause the bobbling indirectly. In one embodiment, the control module could be a switch.

[0066] In another embodiment, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are magnetic components. In one embodiment, the magnetic component includes at least one of electromagnet, ferromagnetic component, metal component and permanent magnet component. When the power supply is turned on, the first component 108 could have a polarity opposite to the second component 110. Then, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are attracted to each other, which enables compression of the joining module 106 and movement of the bobbling component 104. When the power supply is turned off, the joining module 106 decompresses due to the absence of the magnetic field. The movement of the bobbling component 104 causes another bobble component to vibrate and cause the bobbling indirectly.

[0067] Referring to FIG. 3 to FIG. 7, the system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) comprises one or more objects (102, 120). Each object (102, 120) comprises one or more bobbling components (104, 122). The one or more objects (102, 120) comprise a first object 102 and a second object 120. The first object 102 comprises one or more first bobbling components 104. In one embodiment, the first object 102 comprises at least one first bobbling component 104. The second object 120 comprises one or more second bobbling components 122. In one embodiment, the second object 120 comprises at least one second bobbling component 122.

[0068] The system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) further comprises one or more joining modules (106, 124). The joining modules (106, 124) enable movement of the bobbling components (104, 122) that are connected to the respective objects (102, 120). In one embodiment, each joining module (106, 124) comprises one or more components selected from a group comprising a coil, a spring, a conical spring, a leaf spring, a compression spring, a torsional spring, a garter spring, a hinge joint, a pivot joint, a prismatic joint, a ballsocket joint, a mechanism having a hook and loop component, a conical component or a component balanced on a post, and an electromechanical device. The joining modules (106, 124) comprise one or more first joining modules 106 and one or more second joining modules 124. In one embodiment, the joining modules (106, 124) comprise a first joining module 106 and a second joining module 124. The first bobbling component 104 is attached to the first object 102 via the first joining module 106 and the second bobbling component 122 is attached to the second object 120 via the second joining module 124.

[0069] The first joining module 106 is embedded or hidden inside the first object 102. The first bobbling component 104 comprises a first end 104A and a second end 104B. In one embodiment, the first joining module 106 is disposed between a first end 102A of the first object 102 and the first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104. In one embodiment, the first joining module 106 is mechanically connected to the first end 102A of the first object 102. In one embodiment, the first joining module 106 is mechanically connected to the first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104. In one embodiment, the first joining module 106 is configured to bobble the first bobbling component 102 in any desired direction of motion. The direction of motion includes an axis of motion.

[0070] In one embodiment, a mechanism having a hook and loop component, a conical component, or a component balanced on a post could be used with the bobbling component 104. The mechanism enables a hollow interior of the bobbling component 104 to balance on a pointed stick of the object 102, which enables the bobbling component 104 to oscillate relative to the pointed stick. An electromagnet is disposed at the hollow interior of the bobbling component 104, which could be attracted and repelled by an electromagnet at the object 102. In another embodiment, a solenoid electromagnet could be used with the mechanism. In another embodiment, a solenoid electromagnet and an electromagnet could be used with the mechanism. The solenoid electromagnet is disposed at the hollow interior, which could be attracted and repelled by an electromagnet at the object 102. The attraction and repulsion enable movement of the bobbling component 104. This mechanism could be integrated in the various embodiments described in the present invention.

[0071] The second joining module 124 is embedded or hidden inside the second object 120. The second bobbling component 122 comprises a first end 122A and a second end 122B. In one embodiment, the second joining module 124 is disposed between a first end 120A of the second object 120 and the first end 122A of the second bobbling component 122. In one embodiment, the second joining module 124 is mechanically connected to the first end 120A of the second object 120. In one embodiment, the second joining module 124 is mechanically connected to the first end 122A of the second bobbling component 122. In one embodiment, the second joining module 124 is configured to bobble the second bobbling component 122 in any desired direction of motion. The direction of motion includes an axis of motion.

[0072] The system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) further comprises a motion inducing module. The motion inducing module is embedded in the system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800). The motion inducing module comprises at least two magnetic components (108, 110). The at least two magnetic components include a first component 108 and a second component 110.

[0073] Referring to FIG. 3 to FIG. 4, the first component 108 is attached to the second end 104B of the first bobbling component 104. The second component 110 is attached to the second end 122B of the second bobbling component 122. The first joining module 106, the second joining module 124, and the connected at least two bobbling components (104, 122) enable the bobbling components (104, 122) to synergistically bobble in unison.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 3, the first bobbling component 104 is separated from the second bobbling component 122. Referring to FIG. 4, the first bobbling component 104 is connected to the second bobbling component 122. In one embodiment, the first bobbling component 104 is detachably connected to the second bobbling component 122 via the magnetic components (108, 110).

[0075] Referring to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the system 300, comprises one or more objects including a first object 102 and a second object 120. The first object 102 is a first human figure and the second object 120 is a second human figure. In one embodiment, the first bobbling component 104 is a head connected to the first human figure via the first joining module 106. In one embodiment, the second bobbling component 122 is a limb connected to the second human figure via the second joining module 124. The first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104 is connected to the first end 102A of the first object 102 via the first joining module 106. The first end 122A of the second bobbling component 122 is connected to the first end 120A of the second object 120 via the second joining module 124.

[0076] In one embodiment, the first bobbling component 104 is attached to the second bobbling component 122 using the attached magnetic components (108, 110). In one embodiment, the magnetic components (108, 110) are configured to bobble the first bobbling component 104 and the second bobbling component 122 in any desired direction of motion. The desired direction of motion includes an axis of motion.

[0077] In one embodiment, the first bobbling component 104 is attracted to the second bobbling component 122 due to the opposite polarities of the first component 108 and the second component 110. In one embodiment, the first bobbling component 104 may be repelled away from the second bobbling component 122 upon reversing the polarities of the first component 108 and the second component 110.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 5, the system 500 comprises one or more objects (102, 120). The one or more objects (102, 120) comprise a first object 102 and a second object 120. The first object 102 is a first human figure and the second object 120 is a second human figure. Each object (102, 120) comprises one or more bobbling components. The first object 102 comprises at least one first bobbling component 104. The second object 120 comprises at least one second bobbling component 122. In one embodiment, the first bobbling component 104 is physically attached to the second bobbling component 122. Further, the first bobbling component 104 bobbles synergistically in unison with the second bobbling component 122.

[0079] In one embodiment, the first bobbling component 104 is connected to the first object 102 using a first joining module 106. Further, the first joining module 106 is embedded or hidden inside the first object 102. In one embodiment, the first joining module 106 is disposed between a first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104 and a first end 102A of the first object 102. In one embodiment, the first joining mechanism 106 is mechanically connected with the first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104 and the first end 102A of the first object 102.

[0080] Further, the first joining module 106 is configured to bobble the first bobbling component 104 in a desired direction of motion. The desired direction of motion includes an axis of motion. In some embodiments, the first joining module 106 includes, but not limited to, a conical spring, a leaf spring, a compression spring, a torsional spring, a garter spring, a spring, a coil, a mechanism having a hook and loop component, a conical component, and a component balanced on a post. The mechanism enables a hollow interior of the bobbling component (104, 122) to balance on a pointed stick of the object, which enables the bobbling component (104, 122) to oscillate relative to the pointed stick.

[0081] In one embodiment, the second bobbling component 122 is connected to the second object 120 using a second joining module 124. The second joining module 124 is embedded or hidden inside the second object 120. In one embodiment, the second joining module 124 is disposed between a first end 122A of the second bobbling component 122 and a first end 120A of the second object 120. In one embodiment, the second joining module 124 is mechanically connected with the first end 122A of the second bobbling component 122 and the first end 120A of the second object 120.

[0082] Further, the second joining module 124 is configured to bobble the second bobbling component 122 in a desired direction of motion. The desired direction of motion includes an axis of motion. In some embodiments, the second joining module 124 includes, but not limited to, one or more of a conical spring, a leaf spring, a compression spring, a torsional spring, a garter spring, a spring, a coil, a mechanism having a hook and loop component, a conical component, and a component balanced on a post. The mechanism enables a hollow interior of the bobbling component (104, 122) to balance on a pointed stick of the object, which enables the bobbling component (104, 122) to oscillate relative to the pointed stick.

[0083] The first bobbling component 104 is detachably attached to the second bobbling component 122 via one or more connecting modules. In one embodiment, a second end 104B of the first bobbling component 104 is attached to a second end 122B of the second bobbling component 122 using one or more connecting modules. The connecting modules comprises one or more components selected from a group comprising one or more magnets, one or more electromagnets, a Velcro fastener, an adhesive material, a snap fastener, a reusable bonding material, a reusable tape, and suction cups.

[0084] In one embodiment, the system 500 comprises a motion inducing module. In an embodiment, the motion inducing module comprises a first component 108 and a second component 110. The magnetic components (108, 110) are disposed between the first end 102A of the first object 102 and the first end 104A of the first bobbling mechanism 104. In one embodiment, the first component 108 is disposed at the first end 102A of the first object 102 proximal to one end of the first joining module 106. In one embodiment, the second component 110 is disposed at the first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104 proximal to another end of the first joining module 106. In one embodiment, the motion inducing module is configured to bobble the first bobbling component 104 and the second bobbling component 122 in a desired direction of motion. The desired direction of motion includes an axis of motion.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 6, the system 600 comprises one or more objects (102, 120). The one or more objects (102, 120) comprise a first object 102 and a second object 120. The first object 102 is a first human figure and the second object 120 is a second human figure. Each object (102, 120) comprises one or more bobbling components. The first object 102 comprises at least one first bobbling component 104. The second object 120 comprises at least one second bobbling component 122.

[0086] The first bobbling component 104 is a first bobbling limb. The second bobbling component 122 is a second bobbling limb. The first bobbling component 104 is removably attached to the second bobbling component 122. In one embodiment, the first bobbling component 104 is physically attached to the second bobbling component 122. The first bobbling component 104 is enabled to bobble synergistically in unison with the second bobbling component 122.

[0087] In one embodiment, the first bobbling component 104 is connected to the first object 102 using a first joining module 106. In one embodiment, the first joining module 106 is embedded or hidden inside the first object 102. In one embodiment, the first joining module 106 is disposed between a first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104 and a first end 102A of the first object 102. In another embodiment, the first joining module 106 is mechanically connected with the first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104 and the first end 102A of the first object 102.

[0088] Further, the first joining module 106 is configured to bobble the first bobbling component 104 in a desired direction of motion. The desired direction of motion includes an axis of motion. Further, the first joining module 106 includes, but not limited to, a conical spring, a leaf spring, a compression spring, a torsional spring, a garter spring, a spring, a coil, a mechanism having a hook and loop component, a conical component, and a component balanced on a post.

[0089] Further, the second joining module 124 is configured to bobble the second bobbling component 122 in a desired direction of motion. The desired direction of motion includes an axis of motion. Further, the second joining module 106 includes, but not limited to, a conical spring, a leaf spring, a compression spring, a torsional spring, a garter spring, a spring, a coil, a mechanism having a hook and loop component, a conical component, and a component balanced on a post.

[0090] Further, the system 600 comprises a motion inducing module. In an embodiment, the motion inducing module comprises a first component 108 and a second component 110. The magnetic components (108, 1 10) are disposed between the first end 120A of the second object 120 and the first end 122A of the second bobbling component 122. In one embodiment, the first component 108 is disposed at the first end 120A of the second object 120 proximal to one end of the second joining module 124. In one embodiment, the second component 110 is disposed at the first end 122A of the second bobbling component 122 proximal to another end of the second joining module 124. In one embodiment, the motion inducing module is configured to bobble the second bobbling component 122 and the first bobbling component 104 in a desired direction of motion. The desired direction of motion includes an axis of motion.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 7, the system 700 comprises one or more motion inducing modules. In an embodiment, each motion inducing module comprises a pair of magnetic components. Each pair of magnetic components includes a first component 108 and a second component 110. The first pair of magnetic components (108, 110) are disposed between the first end 102A of the first object 102 and the first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104. The second pair of magnetic components (108, 110) are disposed between the first end 120A of the second object 120 and the first end 122A of the second bobbling component 122.

[0092] In one embodiment, the first component 108 of the first pair of magnetic components is disposed at the first end 102A of the first object 102 proximal to one end of the first joining module 106. In one embodiment, the second component 110 of the first pair of magnetic components are disposed at the first end 104A of the first bobbling component 104 proximal to another end of the first joining module 106. In one embodiment, the first pair of magnetic components (108, 110) are configured to bobble the first bobbling component 104 and the second bobbling component 122 in a desired direction of motion. The desired direction of motion includes an axis of motion.

[0093] In one embodiment, the first component 108 is disposed at the first end 120A of the second object 120 proximal to one end of the second joining module 124. In one embodiment, the second component 1 10 is disposed at the first end 122A of the second bobbling component 122 proximal to another end of the second joining module 124. In one embodiment, the motion inducing module is configured to bobble the second bobbling component 122 and the first bobbling component 104 in a desired direction of motion. The desired direction of motion includes an axis of motion.

[0094] Referring to FIG. 1 to FIG. 8, each system (100, 200, 300, 500, 600, 700, 800) comprises the motion inducing modules. In one embodiment, the motion inducing modules includes many configurations of materials, for example, one or more electromagnets and one or more metal objects, one or more electromagnets and one or more ordinary magnets, and two or more electromagnets. In another embodiment, the motion inducing module further includes a solenoid electromagnet. In another embodiment, the motion inducing module further includes an electromechanical system. Further, any of the configurations may be embedded into any type of bobbling apparatus during production or integrated into any type of existing bobble doll in an aftermarket retrofit system.

[0095] Further, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are integrated into any type of existing bobble doll as an aftermarket retrofit kit to make the existing bobble doll bobble. In one embodiment, the first component 108 is an electromagnet and the second component 110 is a metallic object such as an armature plate. In another embodiment, the first component 108 is an electromagnet and the second component 110 is a second electromagnet or ordinary magnet.

[0096] Further, the motion inducing module is configured to perform at least one of repelling and attracting the first component 108 towards the second component 110 based on at least one command. Alternatively, the motion inducing module is cycled between power off and power on. This causes the two ends of the two or more components to alternate between being attracted to each other, and not being attracted to each other.

[0097] In one embodiment, the motion inducing modules include at least one electromagnet and at least one ordinary magnet. In one embodiment, the motion inducing modules include at least one electromagnet and at least one piece of ferromagnetic metal. The motion inducing modules are configured to produce bobbling in any type of the bobble doll on-demand. When powered, by continuously reversing the polarity of the electromagnet, and an ordinary magnet may also be employed, for example, at the other end of the spring or coil, the two or more bobbling components (104, 122) may be attracted, repelled, attracted, repelled, etc.

[0098] In another embodiment, the motion inducing modules is cycled between power off and power on. This cause the two ends of the bobbling components (104, 122) to alternate between being attracted to each other, and not being attracted to each other. When the two or more magnets or one or more magnets or one or more pieces of ferromagnetic metal attract each other, the joining modules (106, 122) is compressed. When the two or more magnets repel each other, the joining modules (106, 122) is decompressed. The compressing and decompressing of the joining modules (106, 122) initiates and/or sustains the bobbling of the bobbling component (102, 120).

[0099] The motion inducing module produces a bobble in any type of the bobble doll on-demand. In one embodiment, the motion inducing module is embedded in the disclosed bobbling apparatus. Further, when powered, by continuously reversing the polarity of the electromagnet and with an ordinary magnet also employed (for example at the other end of the spring or coil), the magnetic components (or two or more magnets) (108, 110) may be attracted, repelled, attracted, repelled, etc. In another embodiment, the magnetic component is cycled between power off and power on. This cause the two ends (of the two or more components) to alternate between being attracted to each other, and not being attracted to each other. Further, when the two or more magnetic components (108, 110) attract each other, the joining modules (106, 124) expands. Further, when the two or more magnetic components (108, 110) repel each other, the joining modules (106, 124) compresses. Further, the expansion and compression of the joining modules (106, 124) initiates and/or sustains the bobbling of the bobbling component. In one embodiment, the system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) enables the movement of at least one first bobbling component and the second bobbling component 122 using an electromechanical device. The electromechanical device includes, but not limited to, electric motor, solenoid, or electromagnet.

[0100] The system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) further comprises a power source module having multiple batteries. The motion inducing modules are battery-powered using various types of batteries comprised in the system 300. In one embodiment, the power source module is embedded into the system 300. In another embodiment, the power source module is remote or separate to the system 300. The power source module comprises one or more batteries. In one embodiment, the batteries are replaceable. In one embodiment, the batteries are recharged using solar power or other types of power capable of recharging the battery. In another embodiment, the motion inducing module uses line voltage. In one embodiment, the motion inducing module may be programmable in a variety of ways. For example, the motion inducing module could be set to cause bobbling for X seconds or minutes bobble, every X seconds or minutes.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 5 and FIG. 8, the first component 108 is an electromagnet and a second component 110 is a metal component. When the control module supplies power to the electromagnet, the electromagnet attracts the metal component, which compresses the joining module 106. When the control module turns off the supply to the electromagnet, the joining module 106 decompresses. The compression and the decompression of the joining module 106 enables the movement of the bobbling component 104. The movement of the bobbling component 104 could cause another bobble component to vibrate and cause the bobbling indirectly.

[0102] In another embodiment, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are magnetic components. In one embodiment, the magnetic component includes at least one of electromagnet, ferromagnetic component, metal component and permanent magnet component. When the power supply is turned on, the first component 108 could have a polarity opposite to the second component 110. Then, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are attracted to each other, which enables compression of the joining module 106 and movement of the bobbling component 104. When the power supply is turned off, the joining module 106 decompresses due to the absence of the magnetic field. The movement of the bobbling component 104 could cause another bobble component to vibrate and cause the bobbling indirectly.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 6, the first component 108 is an electromagnet and a second component 110 is a metal component. When the control module supplies power to the electromagnet, the electromagnet attracts the metal component, which compresses the joining module 124. When the control module turns off the supply to the electromagnet, the joining module 124 decompresses. The compression and the decompression of the joining module 124 enables the movement of the bobbling component 122. The movement of the bobbling component 122 could cause another bobble component 104 to vibrate and cause the bobbling indirectly.

[0104] In another embodiment, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are magnetic components. In one embodiment, the magnetic component includes at least one of electromagnet, ferromagnetic component, metal component and permanent magnet component. When the power supply is turned on, the first component 108 could have a polarity opposite to the second component 110. Then, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are attracted to each other, which enables compression of the joining module 124 and movement of the bobbling component 122. When the power supply is turned off, the joining module 124 decompresses due to the absence of the magnetic field. The movement of the bobbling component 122 could cause another bobble component 104 to vibrate and cause the bobbling indirectly.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 7, the first component 108 is an electromagnet and a second component 110 is a metal component. When the control module supplies power to the electromagnet, the electromagnet attracts the metal component, which compresses the joining module (106, 124). When the control module turns off the supply to the electromagnet, the joining module (106, 124) decompresses. The compression and the decompression of the joining module (106, 124) enables the movement of the bobbling component (104, 122). The movement of the bobbling component (104, 122) could cause another bobble component (104, 122) to vibrate and cause the bobbling indirectly.

[0106] In another embodiment, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are magnetic components. In one embodiment, the magnetic component includes at least one of electromagnet, ferromagnetic component, metal component and permanent magnet component. When the power supply is turned on, the first component 108 could have a polarity opposite to the second component 110. Then, the first component 108 and the second component 110 are attracted to each other, which enables compression of the joining module (106, 124) and movement of the bobbling component (104, 122). When the power supply is turned off, the joining module (106, 124) decompresses due to the absence of the magnetic field. The movement of the bobbling component (104, 122) could cause another bobble component 104 to vibrate and cause the bobbling indirectly.

[0107] The system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) further comprises at least one sensor. The sensor includes, but not limited to, an image sensor, an audio sensor, and motion sensor. The sensor is configured to generate at least one sensor data based on detecting at least one image, at least one sound, etc.

[0108] The system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) further comprises at least one actuator module including a first actuator and a second actuator. The first actuator is mechanically coupled with the first joining module 106. The second actuator is mechanically coupled with the second joining module 124. In one embodiment, the first actuator is configured to control a movement/motion of the first joining module 106. In one embodiment, the second actuator is configured to control movement/motion of the second joining module 124. The actuator includes, but not limited to, a rotary actuator, a mechanical actuator, an electric actuator, etc.

[0109] The system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) further comprises a communication device. The communication device is communicatively coupled with at least one actuator module and at least one sensor. In one embodiment, the communication device is configured to receive the sensor data from the sensor.

[0110] The system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) further comprises the control module. The control module is communicatively coupled with the communication device. The control module is configured to analyze the sensor data. The control module is configured to generate the command based on the analysis. Further, the communication device is configured to transmit the command to at least one of the first actuator, the second actuator, and the motion inducing modules. In some embodiments, the communication device is configured to transmit the command and the sensor data to at least one user device associated with a user. Further, the user device includes, but not limited to, a smartphone, a mobile, a tablet, a personal computer, a laptop, or any other suitable electronic communication device.

[0111] In one embodiment, the user device comprises at least one sensor. In some embodiments, the sensor includes a motion sensor for determining a person approaching the system 300. Further, the control module is configured to identify the person approaching the system. In another embodiment, the control module is configured to identify any animate objects.

[0112] The system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) further comprises a storage device. The storage device is communicatively coupled with the communication device. In one embodiment, the storage device is configured to retrieve a bobble sequence information on identification of the person or any animate objects. Based on the bobble sequence information, at least one command is generated. Further, when a person approaches the object, the system 300 is configured to start a pre-programmed bobble sequence.

[0113] In one embodiment, the system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) wirelessly communicates with a software platform. The software platform may be application software, mobile application, web-based application, or desktop application. The communication device is configured to receive a bobbling selection from the user device. The storage device is configured to retrieve a bobbling data corresponding to the bobbling selection. The command is generated based on the bobbling data. Further, the bobbling data includes a sequence or pattern of bobbling of the system 300 in various ways including, but not limiting to, on-demand bobbling, bobbling with a selectable range of bobbling motion from mild to severe, duration of bobbling, and many others.

[0114] In some embodiments, the system (300, 500, 600, 700, 800) comprises at least one additional output device. The output device includes, but not limited to, a speaker, a light source, etc. In one embodiment, the bobbling data includes an additional data corresponding to the additional output device. Further, the additional data indicates that the user want to produce output using the additional output device. In one embodiment, the control module is configured to generate an output command associated with the additional output device based on the additional data. The communication device is configured to transmit the output command to the additional output device. The additional output device is configured to generate an output based on the output command. In an instance, the speaker is configured to generate a sound based on the output command. In another instance, the light source is configured to produce light based on the output command. The additional output device produces the output in synchronization with the bobbling of the system.

[0115] In addition, other types of effects can be integrated and coordinated with the bobbling effect. For example, the smartphone application (or app) may play, before, during and/or after the bobbling, an audio. The audio includes voice notes by the user and music. The music includes an album music, personalized music, etc. In one embodiment, the music is associated with a genre.

[0116] In one embodiment, the sensor includes an audio sensor configured to generate the sensor data based on detecting the audio. The system 300 bobbles in tune with the audio based on the command, which could be used with the motion inducing module and other mechanisms that cause bobbling without manual intervention. Further, the bobbling of the system 300 is coordinated with additional features of the system, such as the coordination of the bobbling motion with audio effects. These effects include music, words, etc. The app enables the user to select from a menu of audio effects, to record their own effect, etc.

[0117] Further, an example may be considered to describe the BobbleBattle design. The first bobbling component 104 of the first object 102 and the second bobbling component 122 of the second object 120 are separated by a small amount. Further, in an instance, the first object 102 represents a design of a boxer A having the first bobbling component 104 comprising a head and the second object 120 represents a design of a boxer B having second bobbling component 122 comprising a right arm.

[0118] Further, a glove part of B's bobbling component is close to, but not touching, the head, which is A's bobbling component. The motion inducing module is integrated into the glove of B and the head of A. When the motion inducing module is powered on by the push of a button, use of a smart device app, etc., the motion inducing module causes the glove of B to be attracted to the head of A. This causes an impact between the glove and the head. The motion inducing module is then quickly powered off. This terminates the attraction between the glove and the head, and they are separated. As a result, the two bobbling components (the arm and the head) (104, 122) bobbles, but independently, not together as in conventional designs.

[0119] In another example, the motion inducing module is located in the shoulder of the bobbling arm of B. The use of the electromagnet could be configured to cause the arm of B to extend into the head of A. When the motion inducing module is powered on by the push of a button, use of a smart device app, etc., the motion inducing module causes the arm of B to move in the direction of the head of A. This causes a brief impact between the arm and the head, followed by a recoiling. As a result, the two bobbling components (the arm and the head) (104, 122) bobbles, but independently, not together as in conventional designs.

[0120] Further, upon impact, the audio mimics the sound of a punch landing, the grunt of a boxer, the cheer of the crowd, etc. Further, kits may be designed and used to swap different main objects, for example, different celebrities, superheroes, politicians, etc., may be swapped into and out of the boxer design.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 9, a system 916 comprises at least one bobble component 104. The bobble component 104 could be attached to one object 102 (not shown in FIG. 9). The system 916 comprises a first component. In one embodiment, the first component comprises a solenoid electromagnet 918. The solenoid electromagnet 918 could be disposed at the object 102. The joining module 106, for example the spring is disposed proximal to the electromagnet 918 and movably connects the bobbling component 104 to the object 102. The control module is configured to turn on the power supply to generate an attracting force from the solenoid electromagnet 918 and turn off the power supply to remove the attraction force. The control module is configured to enable the power source module to supply power to the solenoid electromagnet 918 that moves a bar component of the solenoid electromagnet 918 towards the bobbling component 104 to impact the bobbling component 104 and away from the bobbling component 104, thereby inducing movement to the bobbling component 104.

[0122] Referring to FIG. 10, a system 900 comprises the articulating apparatus 904, a computing device 902 in communication with the articulating apparatus 904, one or more user devices 908 in communication with the computing device 902, at least one database 912 and one or more sensors 910. The user device 908, the articulating apparatus 904 and sensors 910 are in communication with the computing device 902 via a network 906. Each system (100 to 800) comprising one or more objects (102, 120) comprising one or more bobbling components (104, 112, 122) are also referred as an articulating apparatus 904.

[0123] The computing device 902 comprises one or more processors and one or more memories. The processor is configured to execute one or more program modules. The computing device 902 is configured to control the movement of the bobble components. In one embodiment, the computing device 902 is configured to automatically control the movement of the bobble components (104, 112, 122). In one embodiment, the computing device 902 is a server. In another embodiment, the computing device 902 is a cloud server.

[0124] In yet another embodiment, the computing device 902 is at least one of a general or special purpose computer. In an embodiment, computing device 902 operates as a single computer, which can be a hardware and/or software server, a workstation, a desktop, a laptop, a tablet, a mobile phone, a mainframe, a supercomputer, a server farm, and so forth. In an embodiment, the computer could be a touchscreen and/or non-touchscreen device and could run on any type of OS, such as iOS, Windows, Android, Unix, Linux and/or others. In an embodiment, the computing device 902 is in communication with the user device 908 via a software application, a mobile app, a browser, an OS, and/or any combination thereof. The user device 908 is associated with a user. The user device 908 is configured to enable the user to control the apparatus.

[0125] The user device 908 is a computing device 902 configured to provide access to the service provided by the server. The user device 908 is configured to provide an interface to access the services provided by the server.

[0126] The interface, for example, is an application that allows the user device 908 to wirelessly connect with the computing device 902 via the network 906. The user device 908 includes, but not limited to, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant, and the like. The user device 908 is configured to execute one or more client applications such as, without limitation, a web browser to access and view content over the network 906, a File Transfer Protocol (FTP) client for file transfer. The user device 908 in various embodiments, may include a Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) browser or other wireless or mobile device protocol suites.

[0127] The network 906 generally represents one or more interconnected networks 906, over which the user device 908 and the server can communicate with each other. The network 906 may include packet-based wide area networks (such as the Internet), local area networks (LAN), private networks, wireless networks, satellite network, cellular networks, paging networks, and the like. A person skilled in the art will recognize that the network 906 may also be a combination of more than one type of network 906. For example, the network 906 may be a combination of a LAN and the Internet. In addition, the network 906 may be implemented as a wired network, a wireless network or a combination thereof.

[0128] In an embodiment, the database 912 is accessible by the computing device 902. In another embodiment, the database 912 may be integrated into the server or separate from it. In an embodiment, at least one database 912 resides in the computing device 902 or in a cloud computing service. In an embodiment, regardless of location, the database 912 comprises a memory to store and organize data for use by the server.

[0129] The database 912 stores user information comprising one or more characteristics of one or more users, bobble sequence information comprising one or more bobble sequences and one or more bobble sequences for each user, one or more audios, one or more light patterns, and one or more audios and light pattern for each user. The characteristics include, but not limited to, sound data, image data, movement data of the user, one or more audios include, but not limited to, voice notes and music, one or more light pattern includes, but not limited to, flashing of light and flashing of light in a sequence, flashing of light of different wavelength.

[0130] Referring to FIG. 11, the system comprises a control module 1002, a storage module 1006 in communication with the control module 1002, a communication module 1004 in communication with the control module 1002, and a motion inducing module in communication with the processor. The system 1002 further comprises one or more output devices in communication with the control module 1002. The system further comprises one or more sensors 910 in communication with the control module 1002 and the storage module 1006. The system further comprises an actuator module 1012 in communication with the control module 1002 and the motion inducing module.

[0131] In one embodiment, the control module 1002, the storage module 1006, the communication module 1004, the motion inducing module, the actuator module 1012, output devices 1008, one or more sensors 1010 are embedded within the respective articulating apparatus 904. In another embodiment, the control module 1002, the storage module 1006, the communication module 1004, output devices 1008, one or more sensor 1010 are separately provided from the respective articulating apparatus 904.

[0132] FIG. 12 exemplarily illustrates a computing device 902 of FIG. 10, according to another embodiment of the present invention. The computing device 902 includes at least one processing unit 1102 and a system memory 1104. Depending on the configuration and type of computing device, system memory 1104 include, but not limited to, volatile (e.g. random-access memory (RAM)), non-volatile (e.g. read-only memory (ROM)), flash memory, or any combination. System memory 1104 includes operating system 1105, one or more programming modules 1106, and include a program data 1107. Operating system 1105 suitable for controlling computing device 902's operation. In one embodiment, programming modules 1106 include image processing module, machine learning module and/or image classifying module. Furthermore, embodiments of the disclosure be practiced in conjunction with a graphics library, other operating systems, or any other application program and is not limited to any particular application or system. This basic configuration is illustrated in FIG. 12 by those components within a dashed line 1108.

[0133] Computing device 902 have additional features or functionality. For example, computing device 902 also include additional data storage devices (removable and/or non-removable) such as, for example, magnetic disks, optical disks, or tape. Such additional storage is illustrated in FIG. 12 by a removable storage 1109 and a non-removable storage 1110. Computer storage media include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and nonremovable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data. System memory 1104, removable storage 1109, and non-removable storage 1110 are all computer storage media examples (i.e., memory storage.) Computer storage media includes, but not limited to, RAM, ROM, electrically erasable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store information and which can be accessed by computing device 902. Any such computer storage media is a part of device 902. Computing device 902 also have input device(s) 1112 such as a keyboard, a mouse, a pen, a sound input device, a touch input device, a location sensor, a camera, a biometric sensor, etc. Output device(s) 1114 such as a display, speakers, a printer, etc. also included. The aforementioned devices are examples and others may be used.

[0134] Computing device 902 also contains a communication connection 1116 that allows device 902 to communicate with other computing devices 1118, such as over a network in a distributed computing environment, for example, an intranet or the Internet. Communication connection 1116 is one example of communication media. Communication media may typically be embodied by computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media.

[0135] The term modulated data signal may describe a signal that has one or more characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media may include wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, radio frequency (RF), infrared, and other wireless media. The term computer-readable media as used herein may include both storage media and communication media.

[0136] As stated above, a number of program modules and data files may be stored in system memory 1104, including operating system 1105. While executing on processing unit 1102, programming modules 1 106 (e.g., application 1 120 such as a media player) may perform processes including, for example, one or more stages of methods, algorithms, systems, applications, servers, and databases as described above. The aforementioned process is an example, and processing unit 1 102 may perform other processes. Other programming modules that may be used in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may include sound encoding/decoding applications, machine learning application, acoustic classifiers, etc.

[0137] Generally, consistent with embodiments of the disclosure, program modules may include routines, programs, components, data structures, and other types of structures that may perform particular tasks or that may implement particular abstract data types. Moreover, embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced with other computer system configurations, including hand-held devices, general-purpose graphics processor-based systems, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, application-specific integrated circuit-based electronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like.

[0138] Embodiments of the disclosure may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

[0139] Furthermore, embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced in an electrical circuit comprising discrete electronic elements, packaged or integrated electronic chips containing logic gates, a circuit utilizing a microprocessor, or on a single chip containing electronic elements or microprocessors. Embodiments of the disclosure may also be practiced using other technologies capable of performing logical operations such as, for example, AND, OR, and NOT, including but not limited to mechanical, optical, fluidic, and quantum technologies. In addition, embodiments of the disclosure may be practiced within a general-purpose computer or in any other circuits or systems.

[0140] Embodiments of the disclosure, for example, may be implemented as a computer process (method), a computing system, or as an article of manufacture, such as a computer program product or computer-readable media. The computer program product may be a computer storage media readable by a computer system and encoding a computer program of instructions for executing a computer process. The computer program product may also be a propagated signal on a carrier readable by a computing system and encoding a computer program of instructions for executing a computer process. Accordingly, the present disclosure may be embodied in hardware and/or in software (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.). In other words, embodiments of the present disclosure may take the form of a computer program product on a computer-usable or computer-readable storage medium having computer-usable or computer-readable program code embodied in the medium for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system. A computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be any medium that can contain, store, communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0141] The computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be, for example but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. More specific computer-readable medium examples (a non-exhaustive list), the computer-readable medium may include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a random-access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, and a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM). Note that the computer-usable or computer-readable medium could even be paper or another suitable medium upon which the program is printed, as the program can be electronically captured, via, for instance, optical scanning of the paper or other medium, then compiled, interpreted, or otherwise processed in a suitable manner, if necessary, and then stored in a computer memory.

[0142] Embodiments of the present disclosure, for example, are described above with reference to block diagrams and/or operational illustrations of methods, systems, and computer program products according to embodiments of the disclosure. The functions/acts noted in the blocks may occur out of the order as shown in any flowchart. For example, two blocks shown in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved.

[0143] While certain embodiments of the disclosure have been described, other embodiments may exist. Furthermore, although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described as being associated with data stored in memory and other storage mediums, data can also be stored on or read from other types of computer-readable media, such as secondary storage devices, like hard disks, solid-state storage (e.g., USB drive), or a CD-ROM, a carrier wave from the Internet, or other forms of RAM or ROM. Further, the disclosed methods' stages may be modified in any manner, including by reordering stages and/or inserting or deleting stages, without departing from the disclosure.

[0144] While the disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular system, device or component thereof to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed for carrying out this disclosure, but that the disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, the use of the terms first, second, etc. do not denote any order or importance, but rather the terms first, second, etc. are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0145] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms a, an and the are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It is further clarified that the terms comprises and/or comprising, when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

[0146] The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The described embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and the practical application, and to enable other individuals of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.