19: Mechanical Squirrel Toy on a Movable Log | Japanese Patent Drawing

Mechanical Squirrel Toy on a Movable Log | Patent Drawing
Cited from JP2950401B2(J-PlatPat

Introduction: Why Bring a Squirrel to Life Through Mechanical Motion?

Mechanical toys often mimic nature to spark joy, curiosity, and interaction. This patent drawing presents a mechanical squirrel mounted on a movable log, capturing the playful energy of a squirrel scampering along a tree trunk. By combining motion, balance, and character design, the invention creates a toy that feels alive without relying on electronics.

What the Patent Drawing Reveals About the Motion Structure

The illustration depicts a toy composed of:

  • A squirrel figure mounted on a cylindrical log
  • A log that rolls or moves along a surface
  • An internal mechanism linking log rotation to squirrel motion
  • A stable base or support that prevents tipping
  • A rhythmic motion system that simulates scampering

The design focuses on synchronized movement between character and log.

How the Mechanical Scampering Mechanism Works

The core of the toy is the linkage between the log and the squirrel:

  • As the log rotates, gears or cams inside shift the squirrel’s body
  • The squirrel may bob, lean forward, or swing its tail
  • Movement is passive—powered by rolling, not batteries
  • The log’s round shape allows smooth, continuous travel
  • The overall effect mimics natural, playful animal motion

Simple mechanics create charming, lifelike behavior.

Benefits of a Motion-Linked Animal Toy

  • Provides natural-feeling movement without electricity
  • Encourages imaginative play for children
  • Appeals to collectors of mechanical or nature-themed toys
  • Safe, durable, and easy to operate
  • Teaches basic mechanical concepts through play

The toy blends engineering with character design.

Engineering Considerations

Important design factors include:

  • Gear ratios and timing for synchronized motion
  • Stability during rolling movement
  • Durability of internal components
  • Weight balance of the squirrel figure
  • Smoothness of the log’s rotation

Precision ensures the movement feels natural and consistent.

Patent Attorney’s Thoughts

Mechanical toys are small theaters of motion.
This squirrel, set in motion by the rolling log beneath it, becomes a story told through gears and gravity.
It reminds us that even simple mechanics can bring characters to life in unexpectedly delightful ways.

Application of the Technology: “Passive Motion Animal Toy Platform”

Purpose

To create charming animal toys powered by simple mechanical linkages rather than electronics.

System Components

  • Rolling base (log)
  • Character figure
  • Internal cam or gear system
  • Rotation–motion linkage
  • Stabilizing housing

Operational Flow

  1. Roll the log along a surface.
  2. Internal mechanisms activate animal movement.
  3. Character performs synchronized motions.
  4. The toy travels while animating the figure.
  5. Movement resets naturally with each roll.

Final Reflections

This invention turns a simple rolling action into an expressive, character-driven experience—mechanics made playful.

Disclaimer: This content is an AI-generated reinterpretation based on a patent drawing.
It is provided for educational and cultural purposes only, and not as legal advice.

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