JIGSAW PUZZLE WITH AUDIO AND ILLUMINATED LIGHT SOURCE

Abstract

A jigsaw puzzle kit includes a plurality of puzzle pieces. At least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces includes a front surface, a rear surface, and an aperture extending from the front surface to the rear surface. The plurality of puzzle pieces are configured to be interconnected with one another to form a pictorial/graphical work. The kit includes at least one illuminated light source configured to be inserted within a corresponding one of the aperture of the at least one puzzle piece. The kit includes a control box having a speaker configured to play audio. The audio optionally coincides with an illumination pattern of the light sources and the theme of the audio coincides with the theme of the pictorial/graphical work.

Claims

1. A jigsaw puzzle kit, comprising: a plurality of puzzle pieces, wherein at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces includes a front surface, a rear surface, and an aperture extending from the front surface to the rear surface, wherein the plurality of puzzle pieces are configured to be interconnected with one another to form a pictorial/graphical work; at least one light source, wherein the at least one light source is configured to be inserted within a corresponding one of the aperture of the at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces; and a control box, wherein the control box includes a speaker, wherein the control box is configured to play audio, wherein the audio optionally coincides with an illumination pattern of the at least one light source, and wherein a theme of the audio coincides with the theme of the pictorial/graphical work.

2. The kit of claim 1, wherein the at least one light source includes a light emitting diode (LED).

3. The kit of claim 1, wherein the control box includes a microchip configured to store one or more musical works.

4. The kit of claim 1, wherein the control box includes a toggle switch for selectively activating the at least one light source and audio.

5. The kit of claim 1, wherein the at least one light source includes a plurality of light sources, and wherein each of the plurality of light sources is labeled with an indicia corresponding to an indicia on a corresponding one of the plurality of puzzle pieces.

6. The kit of claim 1, wherein the audio played by the control box is synchronized with the illumination pattern of the at least one light source.

7. The kit of claim 1, wherein the plurality of puzzle pieces are configured to form a completed puzzle.

8. The kit of claim 7, wherein the control box is attached to a rear surface of the completed puzzle by an adhesive strip.

9. The kit of claim 7, wherein a graphical or pictorial work on a front surface of the completed puzzle comprises a photograph, drawing, cartoon, painting, or sketch.

10. The kit of claim 9, wherein each of the apertures of the at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces is positioned to align with a specific feature of the graphical or pictorial work on a front surface of the puzzle, such that illumination from the at least one light source highlights said feature.

11. A method, comprising: interconnecting a plurality of puzzle pieces to form a completed puzzle, wherein at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces includes an aperture; inserting at least one light source into a corresponding one of the aperture of the at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces; and electrically connecting the at least one light source to a control box; and activating the control box to play audio and illuminate the at least one light source in a preselected pattern.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising labeling each of the at least one light source and corresponding one of the aperture of the at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces with matching indicia.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the audio played by the control box is thematically related to a graphical work on the completed puzzle.

14. The method of claim 11, wherein the at least one light source is an LED.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the plurality of puzzle pieces are configured to form a completed puzzle.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the control box is attached to a rear surface of the completed puzzle.

17. The method of claim 11, further comprising selectively activating only the audio or only the at least one light source.

18. The method of claim 11, wherein an illumination pattern of the at least one light source is synchronized with the rhythm or beats of the audio.

19. The method of claim 11, further comprising storing multiple audio tracks on the control box for user selection.

20. The method of claim 13, wherein each aperture is arranged in a preselected pattern coinciding with selected locations on the graphical work.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] FIGS. 1 and 2 are top plan views of some embodiments of a jigsaw puzzle;

[0005] FIG. 3 is a bottom plan view of the jigsaw puzzle of FIG. 2;

[0006] FIG. 4 illustrates some embodiments of an illuminated light source employed by the jigsaw puzzle of FIGS. 1 through 3;

[0007] FIG. 5 illustrates some embodiments of a control box with an audio speaker employed by the jigsaw puzzle of FIGS. 1 through 3;

[0008] FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view of the jigsaw puzzle of FIG. 2, employing a string of the light sources and the control box/speaker; and

[0009] FIGS. 7 and 8 are top plan views of the jigsaw puzzle of FIGS. 1 through 3 employing the light sources and control box/speaker.

SUMMARY

[0010] In some embodiments, a jigsaw puzzle kit includes a plurality of puzzle pieces, wherein at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces includes a front surface, a rear surface, and an aperture extending from the front surface to the rear surface, wherein the plurality of puzzle pieces are configured to be interconnected with one another to form a pictorial/graphical work; at least one light source, wherein the at least one light source is configured to be inserted within a corresponding one of the aperture of the at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces; and a control box, wherein the control box includes a speaker, wherein the control box is configured to play audio, wherein the audio optionally coincides with an illumination pattern of the at least one light source, and wherein a theme of the audio coincides with the theme of the pictorial/graphical work.

[0011] In some embodiments, the at least one light source includes a light emitting diode (LED).

[0012] In some embodiments, the control box includes a microchip configured to store one or more musical works.

[0013] In some embodiments, the control box includes a toggle switch for selectively activating the at least one light source and audio.

[0014] In some embodiments, the at least one light source includes a plurality of light sources, and wherein each of the plurality of light sources is labeled with an indicia corresponding to an indicia on a corresponding one of the plurality of puzzle pieces.

[0015] In some embodiments, the audio played by the control box is synchronized with the illumination pattern of the at least one light source.

[0016] In some embodiments, the plurality of puzzle pieces are configured to form a completed puzzle.

[0017] In some embodiments, the control box is attached to a rear surface of the completed puzzle by an adhesive strip.

[0018] In some embodiments, a graphical or pictorial work on a front surface of the completed puzzle comprises a photograph, drawing, cartoon, painting, or sketch.

[0019] In some embodiments, each of the apertures of the at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces is positioned to align with a specific feature of the graphical or pictorial work on a front surface of the puzzle, such that illumination from the at least one light source highlights said feature.

[0020] In some embodiments, a method includes interconnecting a plurality of puzzle pieces to form a completed puzzle, wherein at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces includes an aperture; inserting at least one light source into a corresponding one of the aperture of the at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces; and electrically connecting the at least one light source to a control box; and activating the control box to play audio and illuminate the at least one light source in a preselected pattern.

[0021] In some embodiments, the method further includes labeling each of the at least one light source and corresponding one of the aperture of the at least one of the plurality of puzzle pieces with matching indicia.

[0022] In some embodiments, the audio played by the control box is thematically related to a graphical work on the completed puzzle.

[0023] In some embodiments, the at least one light source is an LED.

[0024] In some embodiments, the plurality of puzzle pieces are configured to form a completed puzzle.

[0025] In some embodiments, the control box is attached to a rear surface of the completed puzzle.

[0026] In some embodiments, the method further includes selectively activating only the audio or only the at least one light source.

[0027] In some embodiments, an illumination pattern of the at least one light source is synchronized with the rhythm or beats of the audio.

[0028] In some embodiments, the method further includes storing multiple audio tracks on the control box for user selection.

[0029] In some embodiments, each aperture is arranged in a preselected pattern coinciding with selected locations on the graphical work.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments, a kit includes a jigsaw puzzle 10 having a plurality of puzzle pieces 12. In some embodiments, each of the puzzle pieces 12 is configured to be removably interconnected to at least one or more of the other puzzle pieces 12. In some embodiments, all of the puzzle pieces 12 form the completed puzzle 10. In some embodiments, the puzzle pieces 12 of the completed puzzle 10 may be adhered to one another to permanently or semi-permanently maintain the puzzle 10 in its completed form. In some embodiments, the puzzle 10 includes a first, front surface 14 and a second, rear surface 16 opposite the front surface 14. In some embodiments, each of the puzzle pieces 12 includes a first surface and a second surface, that collectively form the front surface 14 and the rear surface 16, respectively, of the completed puzzle 10. In some embodiments, the front surface 14 includes a graphical or pictorial work. In some embodiments, the graphical or pictorial work may include a photograph of a person, place or thing, a drawing, cartoon, painting, sketch, or other art work.

[0031] In some embodiments, the puzzle 10 includes a plurality of apertures 18. In some embodiments, each of the apertures 18 is located within a corresponding select one of the puzzle pieces 12. In some embodiments, each of the apertures 18 extends from the first surface to the second surface of the corresponding puzzle piece 12. In some embodiments, each of the apertures 18 includes a circular cross-section. In some embodiments, each of the apertures 18 includes a cross-section having a shape that is square, rectangular, triangular, star-shaped, oval, elliptical, polygonal or non-polygonal. In some embodiments, one or more of the select number of the plurality of puzzle pieces 12 may include two or more of the apertures 18. In some embodiments, a minority of the puzzle pieces 12 include the apertures 18. In some embodiments, a substantial portion of the puzzle pieces 12 include the apertures 18. In some embodiments, the apertures 18 are arranged in a preselected pattern 19. In some embodiments, the preselected pattern of the apertures 18 coincides with selected locations on the graphical/pictorial work.

[0032] Referring to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the rear surface 16 of the completed jigsaw puzzle 10 includes the puzzle pieces 12 having the corresponding apertures 18. In some embodiments, each of the apertures 18 is labeled with printed indicia 20. In some embodiments, the indicia 20 are numbers. In some embodiments, the indicia 20 are Arabic numbers. In some embodiments, the indicia 20 are arranged in a sequential order to match the selected locations of the graphical/pictorial work.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the kit includes a plurality of illuminated light sources 22. In some embodiments, the illuminated light sources 22 are electrically connected to one another. In some embodiments, the illuminated light sources 22 are electrically connected to one another by one or more electrical wires 24. In some embodiments, the illuminated light sources 22 are light emitting diodes (LEDs). In some embodiments, the LEDs are colored. In some embodiments, each of the illuminated light sources 22 may be labeled with an indicia. In some embodiments, the indicia are numbers. In some embodiments, the indicia on the illuminated light sources 22 correspond with the indicia 20 of the puzzle pieces 12.

[0034] In some embodiments, the illuminated light sources 22 are electrically connected to the control box 26 via detachable connectors, such as plug-and-socket interfaces, allowing for convenient replacement, maintenance, or reconfiguration of the light sources 22. In some embodiments, the electrical wires 24 may be routed along dedicated channels, grooves, or recesses formed in the rear surface 16 of the puzzle pieces 12, thereby minimizing interference with the assembly process and maintaining a neat appearance on both the front surface 14 and rear surface 16 of the completed puzzle 10.

[0035] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, in some embodiments, the kit includes a control box 26. In some embodiments, the control box 26 includes an audio speaker. In some embodiments, the control box 26 includes a microchip and circuitry. In some embodiments, the control box 26 includes a power source. In some embodiments, the power source includes at least one battery. In some embodiments, the at least one battery may be AA, AAA or disc batteries. In some embodiments, the control box 26 includes a toggle switch for turning on or off the lights and audio. In some embodiments, one or more musical works, such as songs, sounds, lyrics, words, etc., are stored on the microchip of the control box 26. In some embodiments, the control box 26 is electrically connected to the plurality of illuminated light sources 22. In other embodiments, the string

[0036] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 6, in some embodiments, each illuminated light source 22 is inserted within a corresponding one of the apertures 18 of the puzzle pieces 12. In some embodiments, the illuminated light source 22 optionally labeled with an indicia (1, 2, 3, etc.) is inserted within the corresponding aperture 18 with the matching indicia (1, 2, 3, etc.). In some embodiments, each aperture 18 of the puzzle piece 12 is configured to receive the illuminated light source 22 via a snap-fit, friction-fit, or rotational locking mechanism, ensuring secure retention and proper alignment. in some embodiments, the interface includes color or shape coding, alignment guides, or polarized connectors to facilitate correct placement and electrical connection. In some embodiments, electrical contact pads or magnetic coupling may be employed to streamline the assembly process and enhance durability. in some embodiments, optional sealing elements, such as gaskets, may be provided to protect the electrical components from dust or moisture. in some embodiments, the interface may also incorporate feedback mechanisms to indicate successful engagement, and safety features to prevent electrical faults.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, in some embodiments, the illuminated light sources 22 protrude from the front surface 14 of the puzzle 10. In some embodiments, the illuminated light sources protrude from the puzzle 10 at select locations on the graphical/sculptural work. Referring to FIG. 6, in some embodiments, the electrical wires 24 remain juxtaposed with the rear surface 16 of the puzzle 10. In some embodiments, the control box 26 remains juxtaposed with the rear surface 16 of the puzzle 10. In some embodiments, the control box 26 is attached to the rear surface 16 of the puzzle 10. In some embodiments, the control box 26 is attached to the rear surface 16 of the puzzle 10 by an adhesive strip 27.

[0038] In some embodiments, the control box 26 is configured to play audio. In some embodiments, the audio emanates from the speaker of the control box 26. In some embodiments, the audio may be musical compositions with or without lyrics, sounds, sounds, or other audible data. In some embodiments, the audio theme coincides or is related to directly or indirectly with the theme of the pictorial and graphical work of the puzzle 10 (e.g., Christmas music or songs for a Christmas themed picture; nature songs for a nature themed picture; etc.). In some embodiments, each of the illuminated light sources 22 may selectively turn on and off in a preselected pattern and timing. In some embodiments, the audio coincides with the preselected rhythm, beats, pattern and timing of the illuminated light sources 22 turning on and off. In some embodiments, a user may select the audio to play without the illuminated light sources 22 being active. In some embodiments, a user may select the audio to be silent or not play while the illuminated light sources 22 are active.

[0039] In some embodiments, the control box 26 may include wireless communication capabilities, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or other suitable wireless protocols. In some embodiments, this enables remote control of the illumination and audio features using an external device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or dedicated remote control. In some embodiments, the control box 26 may be equipped with a microcontroller, programmable logic device, or similar circuitry, allowing users to select, customize, or program illumination patterns, timing sequences, and audio playback options.

[0040] In some embodiments, the control box 26 may further comprise a user interface, which may include physical buttons, touch-sensitive panels, rotary dials, or a graphical display. In some embodiments, the user interface enables the user to select from multiple pre-programmed illumination patterns, adjust brightness levels, change audio tracks, synchronize lighting effects with specific audio segments, or activate special modes such as random, sequential, or user-defined patterns.

[0041] In some embodiments, the user assembles the puzzle 10 by interconnecting the plurality of puzzle pieces 12 to form the completed puzzle 10. Upon completion, the user identifies apertures 18 located on select puzzle pieces 12 and inserts the corresponding illuminated light sources 22, ensuring that any indicia on the light sources 22 match those on the apertures 18. In some embodiments, the user then connects the light sources 22 to the control box 26, either by engaging the detachable connectors or by initiating a wireless pairing process if the control box 26 supports wireless operation.

[0042] In some embodiments, after assembly, the user interacts with the control box 26 to select desired audio tracks, illumination patterns, or synchronization modes. For example, in some embodiments, the user may choose to have the illuminated light sources 22 flash in time with the beat of a selected song, illuminate specific features of the graphical or pictorial work on the front surface 14, or display a sequence of colors. In some embodiments, the control box 26 may also allow the user to mute the audio while maintaining illumination, or to activate audio playback without illumination.

[0043] In some scenarios, the completed puzzle 10 may be used as a decorative display, with the user periodically changing the audio and lighting effects to suit different occasions, themes, or personal preferences. In some embodiments, the system may also support the addition of new audio tracks or illumination patterns via software updates or downloadable content.

[0044] In some embodiments, the puzzle 10 is a system in which audio playback and illumination patterns are synchronized in real time. In some embodiments, the control box 26 may include circuitry or software configured to analyze the rhythm, tempo, or specific cues within the audio track and dynamically adjust the illumination of the light sources 22 to correspond with these features. For example, in some embodiments, the illuminated light sources 22 may pulse in time with the music, change color based on the mood or intensity of the audio, or highlight specific graphical elements on the front surface 14 in response to audio cues. In some embodiments, synchronized interaction between audio and illumination provides an enhanced sensory experience and enables thematic integration between the puzzle's visual and auditory elements.

[0045] In some embodiments, the control box 26 is configured to generate a variety of illumination patterns using the illuminated light sources 22. These patterns may include, but are not limited to, color-changing sequences, strobe effects, gradual fades, pulsing in time with the audio, and sequential lighting across the puzzle pieces 12. For example, the control box 26 may cause the light sources 22 to cycle through a spectrum of colors, flash rapidly to create a strobe effect, or gradually increase and decrease in brightness to produce a fading effect. In further embodiments, the control box 26 may employ audio synchronization algorithms that analyze the rhythm, tempo, or specific cues within the audio track being played. in some embodiments, the illumination pattern may be dynamically adjusted so that the light sources 22 pulse or change color in real time according to the beat or mood of the music. For instance, in some embodiments, during a musical crescendo, the control box 26 may increase the brightness or speed of the illumination pattern, while during softer passages, the lights may dim or transition smoothly between colors.

[0046] In some embodiments, the puzzle 10 may support the addition of new audio tracks or illumination patterns via downloadable content or software updates. For example, in some embodiments, users may download seasonal themes, such as holiday music and corresponding lighting effects, or access user-generated audio and lighting sequences through a dedicated application or online platform. In some embodiments, the control box 26 may be configured to receive updates wirelessly, allowing for the expansion of available content and customization options over time. In some embodiments, where the control box 26 supports wireless operation, it may utilize secure pairing protocols such as Bluetooth Secure Simple Pairing or Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA2) to ensure reliable and authorized communication with external devices. In some embodiments, the control box 26 may require a passkey or utilize encrypted communication to prevent unauthorized access and maintain the integrity of the audio and illumination control features.

[0047] In some embodiments, the puzzle pieces 12 may be formed from durable materials such as high-density cardboard, plastic, or wood, selected for their strength, longevity, and ease of manufacturing. In some embodiments, the illuminated light sources 22 may comprise LEDs encased in impact-resistant, translucent housings to ensure safety and durability during assembly and use. In some embodiments, the choice of materials may be tailored to provide a premium tactile experience, vibrant illumination, and resistance to wear over repeated use.

[0048] While the invention has been described in detail with reference to specific embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0049] It is intended that the present invention cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Features described in connection with individual embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0050] The embodiments described herein are provided by way of example only and are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments, uses, and advantages of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein.