ACTIVITY CENTER TOY

Abstract

An activity center toy comprises a base, a housing structure, and a ball track. The housing structure extends above the base and includes a first sidewall extending upwardly from the base and defining an entry opening extending through the first sidewall, and a second sidewall extending upwardly from the base in a different plane than the first sidewall. The second sidewall defines an exit opening extending through the second sidewall. The exit opening is positioned closer to the base than the entrance opening is positioned relative to the base. The ball track downwardly extends from the entry opening to the exit opening and includes a first rail and a second rail being spaced from one another and extending substantially in parallel with one another. A ball placed on the ball track adjacent the entry opening will contact and roll along each of the first rail and the second rail substantially simultaneously for at least a portion of the distance between the entry opening and the exit opening to and through the exit opening of the second sidewall.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Sensory play is an important part of early childhood development. Such play stimulates children's senses, develops fine motor skills, and helps children engage and understand basic cause and effect in learning how their senses work and how objects interact with one another. Sensory play also enhances children's data collection and processing functions, increases body awareness, and offers many other advantages. Sensory play can be stimulated through the use of toys and imaginative play. Many types of sensory and activity toys are found in the marketplace. Toys incorporating multiple sensory play items and doing so in an imaginative and encouraging aesthetic manner further inspire children to engage in sensory activities to bolster their development. New means of inspiring sensory play continue to evolve as children's interests and attention spans change as they grow.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present invention relates to an activity center toy comprises a base, a housing structure, and a ball track. The housing structure extends above the base and includes a first sidewall extending upwardly from the base and defining an entry opening extending through the first sidewall, and a second sidewall extending upwardly from the base in a different plane than the first sidewall. The second sidewall defines an exit opening extending through the second sidewall. The exit opening is positioned closer to the base than the entrance opening is positioned relative to the base. The ball track downwardly extends from the entry opening to the exit opening and includes a first rail and a second rail being spaced from one another and extending substantially in parallel with one another. A ball placed on the ball track adjacent the entry opening will contact and roll along each of the first rail and the second rail substantially simultaneously for at least a portion of the distance between the entry opening and the exit opening to and through the exit opening of the second sidewall. Other apparatus, assemblies, and associated methods are also disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will be described with respect to the figures, in which like reference numerals denote like elements, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a top, front perspective view illustration of an activity center toy, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a bottom, rear perspective view illustration of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a front view illustration of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a rear view illustration of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a right side view illustration of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a left side view illustration of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a top view illustration of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a bottom view illustration of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a front view of a door assembly of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a partial top, rear perspective view illustration of the activity center toy of FIG. 1 with a roof removed, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view illustration taken along the line X1-X1 in FIG. 3, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a rear view illustration of a spinning member of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a right side view illustration of a spinning member of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a partial cross-sectional view illustration taken along the line X2-X2 in FIG. 6, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a top view illustration of a ball track and mounting blocks of the activity center toy of FIG. 10, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is the partial top, rear perspective view illustration of the activity center toy of FIG. 10 without a roof and showing a ball in various positions along the ball track of the activity center toy, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a front view illustration of a path-traveling member of the activity center toy of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of the activity center toy taken along the line X3-X3 of FIG. 7, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a partial cross-sectional view of the activity center toy taken along the line X4-X4 of FIG. 7, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to an activity center toy providing a variety of interactive elements for entertaining and educating children. In one embodiment, the activity center toy includes a housing structure having various interactive elements positioned to allow interaction from both outside the housing structure and inside the housing structure. The housing structure, in one example, is configured to extend upwardly from a support surface and with an open side, such as an open back, allowing access to an open internal chamber of the housing structure. In one example, a bead maze item is provided to extend between opposing ends of an opening in a roof of the housing structure such that the bead maze can be interacted with both from above the roof external to the housing structure and from below the roof via the inside of the housing structure. In one example, the activity center toy includes a ball track within the housing structure to align with an entry opening extending through the housing structure and an exit opening extending through the housing structure, for example, via a different side of the housing structure than the entry opening. In this manner, a ball dropped through the entry opening is placed on the ball track, slides down the ball track, and exits the housing structure via the exit opening via gravitational and velocity forces. In one embodiment, the ball contacts a door selectively covering the exit causing the door to move away from the exit opening and allowing the ball to exit the housing structure. All of the above described interactive components and others described below are designed to hold the attention of a child through various stages of growth and learning providing a toy a child desires to play with and learn from for an extended period of time.

Turning to the figures, FIGS. 1-8 illustrate various views of one example of an activity center toy 10. Activity center toy 10 includes a base 12, a primary or housing structure 14, and a plurality of interactive elements or activity components 16. For example, activity components 16 may include one or more of movable doors 20, rotating blocks 22, rotating blocks 24, spinning members 26, wire bead mazes 28 and 30, path-traveling members 32, and a spherical object or ball 36 (see FIG. 16), as will be described in further detail below, all configured for repeated user interaction. Other combinations or individual activity components can be substituted for or added to those specifically described herein.

Base 12 is formed of a single piece of wood, plastic, or other suitable material and defines a bottom surface 38 and a top surface 39 (see FIGS. 10 and 16) opposite bottom surface 38 that are both substantially planar. Bottom surface 38 is configured to rest on a support surface (e.g., table or floor) and the remainder of activity center toy 10 extends upwardly from top surface 39. In one embodiment, base 12 is eliminated.

Housing structure 14 is formed, in one example, in the shape of a house, garage, or barn as illustrated in FIGS. 1-8. In one example, housing structure 14 includes a front wall 40, a right or first sidewall 42, a left or second sidewall 44, and an open back. Each of front wall 40, first sidewall 42, and second sidewall 44 abut and extend upwardly from, for example, substantially perpendicularly to, top surface 39 of base 12 and are coupled thereto with suitable fasteners 46 (e.g., screws, bolts, glue, staples, nails, or a combination thereof). An open cavity 48 (see FIG. 2) is formed within housing structure 14 bordering base 12 and is primarily accessible via an open back of housing structure 14. In one example, open cavity 48 is additionally accessible but on a smaller scale via various openings and windows of housing structure 14 and/or other portions of activity center toy 10 as will be further described below. According to at least the above description, housing structure 14 is one example of means for defining internal cavity 48.

Front wall 40 is, in one example, formed of a single piece of wood, plastic, or other suitable material and defines an exterior surface 50 and an interior surface 52 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2, 4, 10, and 16) opposite exterior surface 50. In one embodiment, both of exterior surface 50 and interior surface 52 are substantially planar and are positioned substantially parallel to one another. Front wall 40 is illustrated as being substantially rectangular, however, other shapes are also contemplated. Referring to FIG. 3, in one embodiment, front wall 40 defines a bottom edge 54, a top edge 56 (see, e.g., FIGS. 10 and 16) opposite and substantially parallel to bottom edge 54, a first side edge 58 extending between bottom edge 54 and top edge 56, and a second side edge 60 extending between bottom edge 54 and top edge 56 opposite and substantially parallel to first side edge 58.

In one embodiment, doors 20 are coupled to exterior surface 50 of front wall 40 and can be opened and closed by a user, thereby, providing activity and enjoyment to the user, who most typically is an infant or toddler. Each door 20 is coupled to front wall 40 via a first coupling member or header 62 and a second coupling member or sill 64, according to one example. As illustrated, each of header 62 and sill 64 are elongated members, having, for example, a rectangular cross-section. Additionally referring to FIG. 9, each door 20 is configured to be received between each of header 62 and sill 64 by way of an axle 66 either extending entirely through an edge of door 20 or via a two piece of axle (not shown) with each piece thereof extending linearly and aligned with one another outwardly from two opposing edges of door 20, which, in the illustrated embodiment, is substantially rectangular. Doors of other shapes and/or coupling mechanisms are additionally or alternatively contemplated.

Header 62 and sill 64 include opposing cavities 67 extending away from an edge of header 62 and sill 64, respectively, each facing the other of header 62 and sill 64. Each cavity 67 is sized to receive opposing end portions of axle 66. More specifically, each header 62 and sill 64 are placed relative to door 20 to align opposing ends of axle 66 with cavities 67; subsequently, header 62 and axle 66 are pushed toward each other, as shown with arrows in FIG. 9, such that each end of axle 66 is received within a different one of cavities 67. Header 62 and sill 64 are then coupled to exterior surface 50 of front wall 40, for example, via adhesive, screws, rivets, or any other suitable coupling means. In other examples, one of header 62 and sill 64 may be coupled to exterior surface 50 prior to placement of a corresponding end of axle 66 being received in cavity 67 thereof, as will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application.

Once assembled and coupled to front wall 40, doors 20 are each able to rotate about a corresponding axle 66 to open and close as shown for example, in broken lines for doors 20 in FIG. 1, thereby, amusing a child interacting with activity center toy 10. In one example, doors 20 are provided in at least one of a horizontal orientation as door 20a, in which header 62 and sill 64 extend substantially horizontally and axle 66 extends substantially vertically, and a vertical orientation as door 20b, in which header 62 and sill 64 extend substantially vertically and axle 66 extends substantially horizontally allowing door 20b to flip up and down about axle 66.

In one embodiment, indicia 106 on exterior surface 50 of front wall 40 includes depictions, such as a farm animal, window, shape, etc. that are selectively covered and uncovered as one or more of doors 20 are opened and closed. Indicia 106 of a common theme may be disposed on various surfaces of housing structure 14 and/or doors 20 adding to an aesthetic appeal of activity center toy 10 and encouraging children to interact and use their imagination with activity center toy 10. In one example, front wall 40 defines a window or exit opening 68 (see, e.g., FIGS. 4, 10, and 16) extending entirely therethrough and positioned behind one of doors 20, e.g., door 20b. As such, when door 20b is opened, exit opening 68 is exposed to a front of activity center toy 10.

In one example, front wall 40 includes an opening 70 spaced from exit opening 68 and extending from exterior surface 50 to interior surface 52 of front wall 40. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 11 taken about lines X1-X1 in FIG. 3, a recess 71 is formed on each of two opposing sides of opening 70 open toward the other recess 71 and open to interior surface 52 of front wall 40. Each recess 71 is sized and shaped to partially receive an opposing end of an axle 72 (see, e.g., FIG. 11) extending between recesses 71 across opening 70. In one example, a front surface 75 of a coupling block 76 (see, e.g., FIGS. 4, 10, 11, and 16) is coupled to interior surface 52 of front wall 40 and also includes a recess 77 aligning with a recess 71 such that a pair of recess 71 and recess 77 entirely receives and extends around one end of axle 72. A separate coupling block 76 is included at each opposing side of opening 70, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 10 and 16.

Prior to securing each opposing end of axle 72 to front wall 40 in recesses 71 and 77, one, two, or more rotating blocks 22 are placed around axle 72, e.g., via a linear chamber or bore (not shown) extending through each rotating block 22 such that rotating blocks 22 can relatively easily rotate about axle 72. In one example, spacer disks 74 also extend around axle 72 and maintain spacing of rotating blocks 22 from opposing edges of opening 70. Each rotating block 22 includes a substantially planar or substantially curvilinear surface with indicia 78, such as indicia corresponding with an overall theme established by indicia 106 on housing structure 14. In this manner, when a user spins rotating blocks 22 about axle 72, the portions of indicia 78 is viewable at a given time on blocks 22 through opening 70 is changed, thereby, further amusing children and other interacting with activity center toy 10.

In one embodiment, one or more spinning members 26 are additionally or alternatively coupled with front wall 40. Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, 12, and 13, in one example, each spinning member 26 is formed of two parts including an exterior component 82 and an interior or coupling component 84. Exterior component 82 includes an exterior surface 86 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 and 3), and an interior surface 88 (see FIG. 12) opposite exterior surface 86. Exterior component 82 further includes a perimeter edge 90, which extends, for example, substantially perpendicularly from exterior surface 86 and/or interior surface 88. In one embodiment, perimeter edge 90 forms a plurality of gear teeth 91 extending radially outwardly from a remainder of spinning member 26 and circumferentially spaced from each other about spinning member 26.

Exterior component 82 further includes an interior rim 92, such as a substantially circular interior rim 92 extending from interior surface 88 away from exterior surface 86. In one example, interior rim 92 defines registration notches 94 extending radially outwardly from a remainder of interior rim 92, for instance, at each of two or more, e.g., four or more, positions equally spaced circumferentially around interior rim 92. Alternatively, in one example, registration notches 94 are breaks or gaps along interior rim 92 without any radially outward extension thereof.

Coupling component 84 is generally sized smaller than exterior component 82 and defines an outermost perimeter edge 96 with registration protrusions 98, an annular ring 100, and a hub 102. Perimeter edge 96 is generally circular in shape or otherwise shaped substantially identically to, but sized just smaller than, interior rim 92 of exterior component 82. Outermost perimeter edge 96 defines registration protrusions 98 equally spaced circumferentially about perimeter edge 96 such that each registration protrusion 98 aligns with and will fit within a different one of registration notches 94 of exterior component 82. In one example, an annular ring 100 is centered and inset relative to perimeter edge 96, but also extends rearwardly from a substantially planar, interior surface 101 of coupling component 84. Annular ring 100 extends further away from interior surface 101 than perimeter edge 96, in one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 13.

Hub 102 is centered on coupling component 84, and therefore, is centered relative to perimeter edge 96 and annular ring 100, in one example, and extends further away from interior surface 101 than either perimeter edge 96 or annular ring 100. Hub 102 is configured to fit in a corresponding aperture 81 (generally indicated in FIG. 4) in front wall 40 through most if not all of a thickness thereof. Hub 102 includes a cavity 104, e.g., a threaded cavity) extending from a rearmost portion thereof forwardly and configured to receive a fastener 108 (see FIG. 4) rotatably securing coupling component 84 to front wall 40 such that coupling component 84 is readily rotatable about hub 102 when spun.

In one embodiment, exterior component 82 is coupled to coupling component 84 by placing interior rim 92 of exterior component 82 to fit tightly around perimeter edge 96 of coupling component 84 such that each registration protrusion 98 is positioned in a different one of registration notches 94. In one example, interior surface 88 of exterior component 82 is positioned just inside interior rim 92 and is friction fit thereto and/or is adhered or otherwise coupled to coupling component 84. Accordingly, when a user contacts exterior component 82 to induce rotation or spinning thereof, exterior component 82 rotates together with coupling component 84 about hub 102 in aperture 81 of front wall 40. In one example, annular ring 100 contacts exterior surface 50 of front wall 40 such that spinning member 26 maintains consistent spacing from exterior surface and spinning thereof is not impeded by uneven contact of spinning member 26 with front wall 40. In one embodiment, exterior component 82 remains spaced from and does not generally directly contact exterior surface 50 of front wall 40. In one embodiment, each of exterior component 82 and coupling component 84 are formed of molded plastic and, in one example, coupling component 84 is formed to be more rigid than exterior component 82.

In the illustrated embodiment, as described with primary reference to FIGS. 1 and 5, first sidewall 42 is formed of a single piece of wood, plastic, or other suitable material and defines an exterior surface 110 and an interior surface 112 (see, e.g., FIGS. 2, 10, and 16) opposite exterior surface 110. First sidewall 42 extends rearwardly from and in a different plane than front wall 40. In one example, first sidewall 42 extends substantially perpendicularly to front wall 40. In one embodiment, both of exterior surface 110 and interior surface 112 are substantially planar. First sidewall 42 defines a bottom edge 114, a top edge 116 (see, e.g., FIGS. 10 and 16) opposite bottom edge 114, a front side edge 118 extending between bottom edge 114 and top edge 116, and a rear edge 120 extending between bottom edge 114 and top edge 116 opposite and substantially parallel to first side edge 118.

In one example, top edge 116 is further divided into segments each configured to receive a different portion of roof 230 of housing structure 14 as will be further described below. For example, top edge 116 includes first top edge segment 122, second top edge segment 124, third top edge segment 126, and fourth top edge segment 128. First top edge segment 122 extends upwardly and rearwardly from front side edge 118. Second top edge segment 124 extends upwardly and rearwardly from an edge of first top edge segment 122 opposite front side edge 118. Third top edge segment 126 extends downwardly and rearwardly from second top edge segment 124 opposite first top edge segment 122. Fourth top edge segment 128 extends downwardly and rearwardly from third top edge segment 126 opposite second top edge segment 124 and to rear edge 120. In one example, each of first top edge segment 122, second top edge segment 124, third top edge segment 126, and fourth top edge segment 128 are substantially linear.

In one example, first sidewall 42 includes a top or entry opening 130 sized and shaped to receive a ball 36 (see, e.g., FIG. 16) and/or a side opening or window 132 allowing viewing into an interior of housing structure 14. Entry opening 130 is spaced further from base 12 and bottom edge 114 of first sidewall 42 than exit opening 68 is spaced from base 12 and bottom edge 54 of front wall 40. In one example, additional spinning members 26 include spinning members 26a, 26b, and 26c coupled with first sidewall 42 via corresponding hubs 102 thereof and corresponding apertures 134 extending through first sidewall 42. Gear teeth 80 (see, e.g., FIGS. 12 and 13) of each of spinning members 26a, 26b, and 26c are configured to interact with gear teeth 80 of one more other ones of spinning members 26a, 26b, and 26c, in one embodiment, such that rotation of one of spinning members 26a, 26b, and 26c induces rotation of the others of spinning members 26a, 26b, and 26c. In one example, one or more of spinning members 26 include indicia 138 linking each spinning member 26 to the overall theme established by indicia 106 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1 and 3) of housing structure 14.

In the illustrated embodiment as described with primary reference to FIGS. 2 and 6, second sidewall 44 is formed of a single piece of wood, plastic, or other suitable material and defines an exterior surface 150 and an interior surface 152 as generally indicated in FIGS. 4 and 14) opposite exterior surface 150. In one example, second sidewall 44 extends rearwardly from and in a different plane than front wall 40. In one example, second sidewall 44 extends substantially perpendicularly to front wall 40. In one embodiment, both of exterior surface 150 and interior surface 152 are substantially planar. Second sidewall 44 defines a bottom edge 154, a top edge 156 opposite and substantially parallel to bottom edge 154, a front side edge 158 extending between bottom edge 154 and top edge 156, and a rear side edge 160 extending between bottom edge 154 and top edge 156 opposite and substantially parallel to front side edge 158.

In one example, top edge 156 is further divided into segments each configured to receive a different portion of roof 230 of housing structure 14 as will be further described below. Top edge 156, as illustrated, includes a first top edge segment 162, a second top edge segment 164, a third top edge segment 166, and a fourth top edge segment 168. First top edge segment 162 extends upwardly and rearwardly from front side edge 158. Second top edge segment 164 extends upwardly and rearwardly from first top edge segment 162 opposite front side edge 158. Third top edge segment 166 extends downwardly and rearwardly from second top edge segment 164 opposite first top edge segment 162. Fourth top edge segment 168 extends downwardly and rearwardly from third top edge segment 166 opposite second top edge segment 164 and to rear side edge 160. In one example, each of first top edge segment 162, second top edge segment 164, third top edge segment 166, and fourth segment 168 are substantially linear.

Second sidewall 44 includes a window 170 extending, in one embodiment, over more than about 30% of the surface area of second sidewall 44, for example, over more than about 45% of the surface area of second sidewall 44. Referring to the cross-sectional view of FIG. 14, recesses or indentations 174 extend from interior surface 152 adjacent each of opposing side edges of window 170 in a size and shape to receive an axle 172, such as an elongated metal rod or other suitable elongated member. In one example, each axle 172 that extends from within one of indentations 174 to another indentation 174 on an opposite side of window 170 such that axle 172 extends substantially horizontally or as otherwise desired.

Prior to being placed in two corresponding indentations 174, in one example, one, two, or more rotating blocks 24 are placed on axle 172 via bore holes (not shown) through each of rotating blocks 24. Each rotating block 24 includes at least two opposing surfaces 180 each having different indicia 182 included thereon such that rotation of one or more of rotating blocks 24 changes the overall visual presentation provided by second sidewall 44 and rotating blocks 24, thereby, amusing users of activity center toy 10. When rotating blocks 24 are positioned on a corresponding one of the one or more axles 172, each end of axle 172 is placed in two opposing indentations 174. In one example, elongated coupling blocks 176 are placed adjacent interior surface 152 on either side of window 170 such that coupling blocks 176 collectively cover all indentations 174, thereby, securing axles 172 in indentations 174 such that rotating blocks 24 are hung to extend over a portion of window 170. In one example, two, three, four, or more axles 172 are provided and each includes two or more of rotating blocks 24 thereon. In one embodiment, rotating blocks 24 cover more than 75% of window 170 when broad sides of each rotatable block 24 extends substantially parallel to exterior surface 150 of second sidewall 44.

While specific activity components 16 are described as being included one ones of front wall 40, first sidewall 42, and second sidewall 44, each of activity components 16 can be included on any of front wall 40, first sidewall 42, and second sidewall 44 and/or may be eliminated or at least duplicated other ones of front wall 40, first sidewall 42, and second sidewall 44. The addition or substitution of other activity components, which are not specifically disclosed herein, to activity components 16 is also contemplated.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 15, and 16, in one example, activity center toy 10 includes a ball track 34 mounted inside housing structure 14 to receive ball 36 (see FIG. 16) when ball 36 is inserted into housing structure 14 via entry opening 130 of first sidewall 42. Ball track 34 directs ball 36 from an entry point downwardly along ball track 34, and finally expelling ball 36 out exit opening 68 in front wall 40, which may also be referred to as another sidewall, in one embodiment. More specifically, ball track 34 includes a first rail 190 and a second rail 192 spaced from each other a distance less than a diameter of ball track 34 and extending in a substantially parallel manner. As such, a ball 36 is placed to be supported between each of first rail 190 and second rail 192 in a manner allowing ball 36 to freely roll along ball track 34. In view of at least the above description, first sidewall 42 with entry opening 130 is one example of means for entering the internal cavity 48, and front wall 40 with exit opening 68 is one example of means for exiting the internal cavity 48.

In one example, first and second rails 190 and 192 each are coupled to a top portion of first sidewall 42 at one end thereof and to front wall 40 or to base 12 near front wall 40. More specifically, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, first ends of first and second rails 190 and 192 are coupled to first sidewall 42 via a first or top coupling block 194, such as a wooden block, having a width that is larger than an overall width of side window 132. Coupling block 194 has a top surface 198 that is curved or otherwise formed to follow along and align with a bottom portion of side window 132. Top coupling block 194 is coupled to first sidewall 42 in any suitable manner such as glue, other adhesive, screws, nails, rivets, staples, etc. and is positioned to align top surface 198 with a bottom portion of side window 132. Each first end of first and second rails 190 and 192 is inserted into corresponding holes (not shown) in top coupling block 194 and secured with fasteners 196 such as fastening disks, adhesive, and/or other suitable coupling mechanism(s).

Ball track 34 defines a spacer section 199, a rearwardly extending section 200, and a downwardly extending section 202, in one embodiment. Each of spacer section 199, rearwardly extending section 200, and downwardly extending section 202 have at least some downward tilt, with downwardly extending section 202 having the most downward tilt or slope, such that ball 36 placed thereon will roll from spacer section 199 to rearwardly extending section 200 and finally to and down downwardly extending section 202 due to gravitational forces. Spacer section 199 of ball track 34 extends from top coupling block 194 toward second sidewall 44 (i.e., away from side window 132) to move ball 36 away from first sidewall 42. In one example, the portion of first rail 190 included in spacer section 199 is shorter than a portion of section rail 192 included in spacer section 199 such that a remainder of second rail 192 is spaced further away from first sidewall 42 than first rail 190. A remainder of each of first and second rails 190 and 192 extends substantially in parallel other than ball drop portion 216, which will be described in additional detail below. In one example, spacer section 199 extends substantially perpendicularly relative to a remainder of ball track 24 including rearwardly extending section 200 and downwardly extending section 202.

Rearwardly extending section 200 extends from ends of spacer section 199 opposite side window 132 and extends substantially rearwardly therefrom. In one example, rearwardly extending section 200 extends rearwardly from spacer section 199, for instance, with a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to spacer section 199. Rearwardly extending section 200 includes a ball drop portion 216 in which first and second rails 190 and 192 bow away from each other such that a width between first and second rails 190 and 192 becomes larger than the diameter of ball 36. In one example, first and second rails 190 and 192 bow away from each other in a curvilinear manner as best illustrated in the top view of FIG. 15 to form an opening therebetween shaped similar to and sized at least slightly larger than ball 36. In this manner, when ball 36 travels to ball drop portion 216, ball 36 drops through ball drop portion 216 of ball track 34 down to another portion of ball track 34 as illustrated in FIG. 16. In one example, rearwardly extending section 200 includes first and second rails 190 and 192 extending back toward one another, after ball drop portion 216, to a spacing similar to the spacing between first and second rails 190 and 92 along rearwardly extending section 200 just before ball drop portion 216. As illustrated, in one embodiment, rearwardly extending section 20 terminates with an upwardly protruding end portion 218 to both provide additional rigidity to ball track 34 and/or to provide stops along each of first and second rails 190 and 192 to any ball 36 that may enter ball track 34 with enough speed to travel over ball drop portion 216. The upward extension 218 stops and redirects any such ball 36 back to and through ball drop portion 216.

Downwardly extending section 202 extends from an end of rearwardly extending section 200 opposite spacer section 199, that is, an intersection 219 of rearwardly extending section 200 and downwardly extending section 202. Downwardly extending section 202 extends from intersection 219 with a slope, for example, a curved slope to a lowermost end of ball track 34. The curvature of the slope is selected in combination with the particular characteristics (e.g., weight, friction, and material composition) of ball 36 to adjust the speed of ball 36 traveling along downwardly extending section 202 due to gravitational forces.

In one example, lower most end of ball track 34 is secured to one or both of front wall 40 and base 12 via a lower coupling block 204, such as a wood block. In one embodiment, lower coupling block 204 defines a bottom surface 208 and a top surface 210 opposite bottom surface 208 that are each substantially planar. Bottom surface 208 is placed adjacent and coupled to top surface 39 of base 12 near or directly adjacent to interior surface 52. More specifically, lower coupling block 204 is positioned such that top surface 210 thereof is placed adjacent to or just below a bottommost edge of exit opening 68 extending through front wall 40. Ends of each of first rail 190 and second rail 192 extend into cavities (not shown) in lower coupling block 204 and are additionally secured by fastener(s) 206 such as one or more of adhesive, coupling disk, and/or other suitable coupling mechanism.

Referring to FIG. 16, which shows ball 36 in various positions along an installed ball track 34, when ball 36 is inserted into housing structure 14 via entry opening 130, ball 36 initially sits on spacer section 199, which is slightly downwardly tilted such the ball 36 moves along spacer section 199 to rearwardly extending section 200 via gravitational forces. Ball 36 then moves onto rearwardly extending section 200, which, in one embodiment, extends substantially perpendicularly to spacer section 199 with a downwardly tilt to intersection 219. Accordingly, ball 36 continues to roll from spacer section 199 down rearwardly extending section 200 toward intersection 219. As ball 36 rolls over ball drop portion 216, ball 36 drops through the space between first and second rails 190 and 192 onto a point of downwardly extending section 202 directly below.

Upon contacting downwardly extending section 202, ball 36 continues down downwardly extending section 202 to and out exit opening 68 in front wall 40. In one example, where closed door 20b extends over front exit opening 68, ball 36 moves through front exit opening 68 contacting door 20b and inducing rotation of door 20b about its corresponding axle 66 to open door 20b (i.e., to move door 20b from a closed position to an open position). When door 20b is open, ball 36 can be expelled from housing structure 14 via front exit opening 68. In one embodiment, the curvature of the slope of the downwardly extending section 202 is selected such that ball 36 will hit door 20b with sufficient speed to force door 20b to flip at least partially open. In view of at least the above-description, ball track 34 is one example of means for directing ball 36 under gravitation forces to move from entry opening 130 to exit opening 68, and door 20b is one example of means for selectively opening and closing exit opening 68.

In one embodiment, roof 230 is placed over and substantially entirely covers housing structure 14 creating cavity 48 (see FIG. 2) therein, which is open to a back of housing structure 14 opposite front wall 40. In addition to containing ball track 34 and providing internal access to rotating blocks 22 and 24, cavity 48 is sized to house other toys or items. For example, blocks or other items may be stored therein as desired by a child and/or activity center toy 10 can be used as a barn, garage, or other item for temporarily housing trucks, tractors, or other toy automobiles for storage or during a child's play with activity center toy 10.

Roof 230 includes a first roof panel 232, a second roof panel 234, a third roof panel 236, and a fourth roof panel 238 to correspond with top edges 116 and 156 of first sidewall 42 and second sidewall 44, in one example. Each of first, second, third, and fourth panels 232, 234, 236, and 238 are substantially rectangular and/or substantially planar planks or wooden boards having a width sufficient to extend between and, in one example, slightly beyond each of first sidewall 42 and second sidewall 44. More particularly, first roof panel 232 longitudinally extends over each of and between first top edge segment 122 of first sidewall 42 and first top edge segment 162 of second sidewall 44 and along and covering top edge 56 of front wall 40. First roof panel laterally extends from a frontmost edge 242 to second roof panel 234. Second roof panel 234 longitudinally extends over each of and between second top edge segments 124 and 164 of first sidewall 42 and second sidewall 44, respectively. Third roof panel 236 longitudinally extends over each of and between third top edge segments 126 and 166 of first sidewall 42 and second sidewall 44, respectively. Fourth roof panel 238 longitudinally extends over each of and between fourth top edge segments 128 and 168 of first sidewall 42 and second sidewall 44, respectively, and laterally from third roof panel 236 to rearmost edge 244.

In one embodiment, activity components 16 are incorporated into roof 230 in addition to housing structure 14. For example, wire bead maze 28 extends from and above first roof panel 232. Wire bead maze 28 includes a wire 252 and wire followers 258 configured to selectively slide along wire 252. Wire 252 used for wire bead maze 28 is substantially rigid such that wire 252 holds it shape as wire followers 258 move back and forth over wire 252. For example, wire 252 is that commonly referred to as “roller coaster wire” in the toy art. In one example, wire 296 includes a first end 298 and a second end 300 each coupled to roof 230 in a stable and secure manner. Wire 252 defines a first end 254 and a second end 256 opposite first end 254 each coupled to a top of first roof panel 232 via bores or cavities (not shown) in first roof panel 232 and/or coupling disks 264 or other suitable fastener(s). To provide additional stability to wire bead maze 28, in one example, coupling blocks 262 are coupled to an interior of first roof panel 232 (see FIG. 2) such that first end 254 and second end 256 of wire 252 extend through first roof panel 232 and slightly into a corresponding coupling block 262 in a manner decreasing rotation or tilt of wire 252 relative to first roof panel 232. Wire followers 258, for example, in the form of balls, cubes, stars, animals, or any other suitable shape, are provided with a through cavity or bore 260 extending therethrough and placed around wire 252 such that wire followers 258 slide along wire 252 as desired by a user. In one example, wire 252 defines arches, curves, spirals, or other features making movement of wire followers 258 along wire 252 more complex and, therefore, more interesting and stimulating to a child playing with activity center toy 10.

Second roof panel 234 includes an elongated slot 270 extending longitudinally therethrough in a meandering pattern such as in a zigzag line, a serpentine line, etc. A path-traveling member 32 is configured to move back and forth along elongated slots 270 such that elongated slot 270 functions as a track for path-traveling member 32. One example of path-traveling member 32 is more particularly illustrated in FIG. 17. Such a path-traveling member 32 includes a top member 272, a bottom member 274, and an intermediate dowel 276. Top member 272 is configured to travel above second roof panel 234 and is shaped in a manner allowing a youngster playing with activity center toy 10 to easily grasp top member 272 causing top member 272 to travel along elongated slot 270. In the illustrated embodiment, top member 272 is shaped like an egg and a nest in a manner configured to correspond with the overall farm theme of activity center toy 10 as illustrated in the examples of FIGS. 1-8. At least a bottom portion of top member 272 has a diameter or width that is larger than a width of elongated slot 270 in all directions such that top member 272 is not generally able to move through elongated slot 270.

Bottom member 274 is spaced below top member 272 and has any suitable shape sized with a width or diameter larger than the width of elongated slot 270 such that bottom member 274 is not generally able to move through elongated slot 270. Intermediate dowel 276 is coupled to each of top member 272 and bottom member 274, e.g., via fasteners such as screw 278, adhesive, other coupling mechanisms, and/or combinations thereof. More specifically, bottom member 272 is coupled to top member 272 via intermediate dowel 276 after placement of intermediate dowel 276 through elongated slot 270 resulting in top member 272 being positioned above second roof panel 234 and bottom member 274 being positioned below second roof panel 234. In this manner, intermediate dowel 276 extends between a bottom surface 280 of top member 272 and a top surface 282 of bottom member 274 to define gaps 284 between top member 272 and bottom member 274 around intermediate dowel 276. Gaps 284 receive edges of second roof panel 234 on opposing sides of elongated slot 270. In one example, Intermediate dowel 276 is cylindrical, in one example, and has a diameter that is less than a width of elongated slot 270 such that intermediate dowel 276 is relatively easily moved longitudinally along elongated slot 270. Top member 272 and bottom member 274 substantially prevent any significant movement of path-traveling member 32 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal extension of elongated slot 270. Path-traveling member 32 helps develop small motor skills and cause-and-effect analysis of children playing therewith.

In one example, third roof panel 236 includes a frontmost roof cutout 290 extending from an edge of third roof panel 236 adjacent fourth roof panel 238 and sized, in one embodiment, to extend over a majority of a length of third roof panel 236, for example more than about 65% of the length of third roof panel 236. Fourth roof panel 236 includes a rearmost roof cutout 292, in one example, extending from an edge of fourth roof panel 236 adjacent third roof panel 236. As such, frontmost roof cutout 290 and rearmost roof cutout 292 are placed in communication with one another to collectively form a larger opening 294 through roof 230. In one embodiment, rearmost roof cutout 292 is sized to extend over a majority of a length of fourth roof panel 238, such as more than about 65% of the length of fourth roof panel 238.

According to one embodiment, an activity component 16 is positioned within opening 294, such as wire bead maze 30. More particularly, wire bead maze 30 includes a wire 296 extending longitudinally across opening 294 with spirals or other serpentine and three-dimensional variations making movement of wire followers 302 thereon less linear and generally more interesting and stimulating to child users. Wire 296 used for wire bead maze 30 is rigid such that wire 296 holds it shape as wire followers 302 move back and forth over wire 296. For example, wire 296 is that commonly referred to as “roller coaster wire” in the toy art. In one example, wire 296 includes a first end 298 and a second end 300 each coupled to roof 230 in a stable and secure manner. For instance, first end 298 is coupled to third roof panel 236 via a coupling block 306 having a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape. More particularly, a side surface of coupling block 306 facing second end 300 as illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 18. First end 298 extends into coupling block 306 and is further secured thereto via adhesive, coupling disks, other coupling mechanism, or combination thereof as a fastener 308. In one example, second end 300 is coupled to third roof panel 236 via a rectangular cross-section coupling block 310, more particularly, a bottom surface thereof as illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 19. Second end 300 extends into coupling block 310 and is further secured thereto via adhesive, coupling disks, other coupling mechanism, or combination thereof as a fastener 312.

One or more, for example, a plurality, of wire followers 302 are secured to wire 296 in a manner allowing wire followers 302 to be readily slid along a length of wire 296. In one embodiment, each wire follower 302 is formed of any suitable shape and includes an open cavity or bore 304 extending entirely through the respective wire follower 302. Wire follower 302 is secured to wire 296 by threading wire 296 through bore 304 of wire follower 302. Each bore 304 has a greater diameter than a diameter of wire 296 to allow movement of wire follower 302 along wire 296. Use of other wire followers that clip or otherwise attached to wire 296 is also contemplated for use with activity center toy 10.

While particular activity components 16 are described with respect to first, second, third, and fourth roof panels 232, 234, 236, and 238 as examples, in other embodiments, different activity components 16 are included on first, second, third, and fourth roof panels 232, 234, 236, and 238 and/or wire bead maze 28, wire bead maze 30, and path-traveling members 32 may be located on alternative portions of activity center toy 10 and/or eliminated. In one example, substantially all components of activity center toy 10 other than the various fasteners and wires 252 and 296 are formed of wood. In another embodiment, substantially all components of activity center toy 10 other than the various fasteners, wires 252 and 296, and spinning members 26 are formed of wood. Use of formed plastics and other suitable materials are also contemplated for each of the components of activity center toy 10.

In one example, rotating members 22 and 24, spinning members 26, and wire bead mazes 28 and 30 are configured to appeal to a younger audience such as babies and toddlers, while ball track 34 and cavity 48 allow older users to still use and be entertained by activity center toy 10, e.g., by using activity center toy as a barn, garage, or similar and interacting with ball track 34. Accordingly, activity center toy 10 provides for evolving purpose and entertainment as children grow and their learning and skill sets progress.

Various methods of constructing activity center toy 10 are contemplated. In one example, activity center toy 10 is assembled by constructing primary structure 14 with suitably fasteners, attaching primary structure 14 to base 12 with suitable fasteners, coupling roof 230 to primary structure 14 with suitable fasteners, and finally coupling activity components 16 to various portions of primary structure 14 and roof 230, for example, as described above. In another example, activity components 16, other than ball track 34 are coupled to respective ones of walls 40, 42, and 44 of primary structure 14 and ones of roof panels 232, 234, 236, and 238 first, followed by coupling walls 40, 42, and 44 together to form primary structure 14 and/or coupling primary structure 14 to base 12 and roof 230. In one embodiment, once primary structure 14 is coupled to base 12, but in one example, before roof 230 is coupled with primary structure 14, ball track 34 is coupled to primary structure and/or base 12. Coupling blocks 306 and 310 may be coupled with corresponding portions of primary structure 14 and base 12 prior to coupling walls 40, 42, and 44 together and/or prior to coupling housing structure 14 to base 12, with first and second rails 190 and 192 being coupled therewith after housing structure 14 has been assembled and coupled to base 12. Other methods and sequences of assembling activity center toy 10 are contemplated and will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this application.

Although the invention has been described with respect to particular embodiments, such embodiments are meant for the purposes of illustrating examples only and should not be considered to limit the invention or the application and uses of the invention. Various alternatives, modifications, and changes will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this application. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any theory presented in the preceding background of the invention or the above detailed description.

Claims

1. An activity center toy comprising: a base;a housing structure extending above the base and including: a first sidewall extending upwardly from the base and defining an entry opening extending through the first sidewall, anda second sidewall extending upwardly from the base in a different plane than the first sidewall, the second sidewall defining an exit opening extending through the second sidewall, wherein the exit opening is positioned closer to the base than the entrance opening is positioned relative to the base; anda ball track downwardly extending from the entry opening to the exit opening, the ball track includes a first rail and a second rail being spaced from one another and extending substantially in parallel with one another such that a ball placed on the ball track adjacent the entry opening will contact and roll along each of the first rail and the second rail substantially simultaneously for at least a portion of the distance between the entry opening and the exit opening to and through the exit opening of the second sidewall.

2. The activity center toy of claim 1, wherein the first sidewall and the second sidewall are substantially opaque and each defines two opposite and substantially planar surfaces.

3. The activity center toy of claim 1, wherein the first sidewall extends substantially perpendicularly relative to the second sidewall.

4. The activity center toy of claim 1, further comprising a third sidewall coupled to the second sidewall opposite the first sidewall to define an open cavity between the first sidewall, the second sidewall, and the third sidewall, wherein the ball track is positioned within the open cavity.

5. The activity center toy of claim 1, further comprising a third sidewall coupled to the second sidewall opposite the first sidewall to define an open cavity between the first sidewall, the second sidewall, and the third sidewall, and the ball track is positioned substantially entirely within the open cavity.

6. The activity center toy of claim 1, wherein: the ball track includes a spacer section extending from the first sidewall, adjacent the entry opening and away from the first sidewall,the spacer section extends from the first sidewall to a remainder of the ball track, andthe spacer section extends substantially perpendicularly relative to the remainder of the ball track.

7. The activity center toy of claim 1, wherein: the ball track includes a ball drop portion and a downwardly extending section,the ball drop portion is spaced from the entry opening and extends above the downwardly extending section,the first rail and the second rail bow outwardly relative to one another at the ball drop portion as compared to a remainder of the ball track, andduring use, a ball, initially supported between the first rail and the second rail, drops through the ball drop portion to the downwardly extending section before continuing to the exit opening.

8. The activity center toy of claim 7, further comprising: the ball, wherein the ball is sized to fit through each of the entry opening, the ball drop section of the ball track, and the exit opening and has a diameter greater than a spacing of the first rail and the second rail of the ball track at positions adjacent each of the entry opening and the exit opening.

9. The activity center toy of claim 1, wherein: the ball track includes a rearwardly extending section that extends away from the entry opening in a direction opposite the second sidewall.

10. The activity center toy of claim 1, wherein: the ball track includes a spacer section, a rearwardly extending section, and a downwardly extending section,the spacer section extends from the first sidewall, adjacent the entry opening, and away from the first sidewall,the rearwardly extending section extends away from an end of the spacer section opposite the spacer section in a direction away from the second sidewall, andthe downwardly extending section extends from an end of the rearwardly extending portion opposite the spacer section and sloped toward the exit opening.

11. The activity center toy of claim 10, wherein: the rearwardly extending section includes a ball drop portion above the downwardly extending section,the first rail and the second rail bow outwardly relative to one another at the ball drop portion as compared to a remainder of the ball track, andduring use, the ball, initially supported between the first rail and the second rail, drops through the ball drop portion to the downwardly extending section before continuing to the exit opening.

12. The activity center toy of claim 10, wherein the rearwardly extending section extends upwardly between the ball drop portion and an intersection with the downwardly extending section to define a ball stop adjacent the ball drop portion.

13. The activity center toy of claim 1, further comprising: a first coupling block secured to the first sidewall adjacent the entry opening, wherein each of the first rail and the second rail are coupled to the first sidewall via the first coupling block.

14. The activity center toy of claim 13, further comprising: a second coupling block secured adjacent to the exit opening, wherein each of the first rail and the second rail are coupled to the second coupling block.

15. The activity center toy of claim 1, further comprising the ball being sized to fit through each of the entry opening and the exit opening and having a diameter greater than a spacing of the first rail and the second rail of the ball track at positions adjacent each of the entry opening and the exit opening.

16. The activity center toy of claim 15, wherein: the housing structure includes a door coupled to a surface of the second sidewall opposite the ball track,the door is rotatable between a closed position covering the exit opening and an open position at least partially revealing the exit opening, andduring use the ball rolls from the ball track through the exit opening and contacts the door with sufficient force to rotate the door into the open position such that the ball is expelled from the housing structure through the exit opening and past the door.

17. The activity center toy of claim 16, wherein the ball track is substantially hidden when the activity center toy is viewed from a side of the second sidewall opposite the ball track.

18. The activity center toy of claim 1, further comprising: a roof extending over the first sidewall and the second sidewall such that an open cavity is formed below the roof between the first sidewall and the second sidewall;wherein the ball track is substantially entirely maintained in the open cavity.

19. The activity center toy of claim 18, wherein: the roof includes an elongated opening extending through the roof providing visual access to the open cavity through the roof, andthe activity center toy further comprises: a serpentine wire extending from one end of the elongated opening to an opposing end of the elongated opening, anda wire follower extending around the serpentine wire and configured to readily slide along the length of the wire when a user applies an appropriate force to the wire follower.

20. An interactive toy comprising: means for defining an internal cavity, the means for defining the internal cavity including two panels, each of the two panels defining a different one of means for entering the internal cavity and means for exiting the internal cavity; andmeans for directing a spherical object under gravitational forces to move from the means for entering the internal cavity to the means for exiting the internal cavity, wherein the means for entering the internal cavity and the means for exiting the internal cavity are provided on two different and non-parallel planes.

21. The interactive toy of claim 20 further comprising: means for selectively opening and closing the means for exiting the internal cavity.

22. The interactive toy of claim 20, wherein the means for defining the internal cavity includes an open side opposite the means for exiting the internal cavity.

23. The interactive toy of claim 20, wherein the means for directing includes two substantially parallel means for contacting the spherical object.

24. A method of assembling a toy, the method comprising constructing a housing structure defining an open cavity therein, wherein the housing structure includes a first window and a second window, the first window is defined on a different plane of the housing structure than the second window, and the first window is positioned higher on the housing structure than the second window;coupling a first end of a ball track to the housing structure adjacent the first window; andcoupling a second end of a ball track adjacent the second window such that the ball track has a downwardly angled orientation as it extends from the first end of the ball track to the second end of the ball track and such that a ball placed on the ball track through the first window will move from the first end of the ball track to the second end of the ball track and out the second window due to gravitational forces;wherein the ball track includes a first rail and a second rail extending substantially parallel to one another such that the ball is supported between the first rail and the second rail as the ball moves along the ball track.

25. The method of claim 24, further comprising: providing a ball with the toy;wherein coupling the first end of the ball track to the housing structure includes positioning the ball track such that a ball drop portion of the ball track is positioned directly above the downwardly extending section of the ball track, the ball track having a distance between the first rail and the second rail that is smaller than a diameter of the ball everywhere along the ball track other than along the ball drop portion, and first rail and second rail are spaced apart a distance greater than the diameter of the ball at the ball drop portion of the ball track.