Patent Application
20250108312
The disclosure relates to toys and games, and more particularly, to modular or singular hand-held games involving spherical rolling objects. A hand-held, dual-function fidget toy and marble racing toy has structural designs and shapes that can support a hand-held, dual marble racing experience. The disclosure further relates to building toys, and more specifically, kits for designing, building and using marbles or other spherical objects rolled along tracks in a hand-held fidget toy.
Fidget toys are well known as instruments for relieving stress and anxiety. They come in a wide variety of shapes, styles and functionalities. Fidget spinners, stress balls, squeezable balls, foam balls, bouncy balls, finger massage rings, spiked balls, stretchable string fidgets, fidget cubes, fidget gyros and magnetic rings are among the many examples commonly known. Another variant is a marble maze fidget toy.
Marble maze fidget toys are essentially a two- or multi-layer fabric mat with a marble or other spherical object secured inside the attached fabric layers. Maze structures are imprinted or embroidered on the surface of the marble maze mat. To operate the marble maze mat, the user compresses the mat about the enclosed marble and maintains the compression while urging the marble through the inside of the mat. The user can use the maze pattern as a guide to move the marble along a designated path. Although the marble maze mat is functional as a stress and anxiety relief toy, it requires a fair amount of tedious, relatively slow and blind tactile movement of the marble along the defined maze path. There is no competition in using the marble maze mat as there is a single marble in the mat and no practical way to make the marble maze mat a hand-held race toy of any sorts. One person operates the mat and can only move the one marble in a random or selected pattern of motion.
Another drawback of fidget toys, particularly those that involve sustained rotational movement is the need for complete symmetry to enable the user to apply a force to the toy that is prolonged due to centripetal force and low-friction bearings of some sort. For this reason, structural limitations are placed on the shapes possible for rotational fidget toys. What is needed is a fidget toy structure that allows freedom of design to enable multiple different configurations that still permit a spherical object to travel along a circuitous track with the implementation of coordinated digital hand inputs to the toy. These and other objects of the disclosure will become apparent from a reading of the following summary and detailed description of the disclosure.
In one aspect of the disclosure, a triangular-shaped, hand-held, dual-track race fidget toy is formed with an inner track and an adjacent longer outer track with at least three dual curve track segments to complete a closed, circuitous path. As used herein, use of the terms “short” and “long” and derivatives thereof with respect to the descriptions of the tracks are intended to describe the relative lengths of the inner and outer tracks. Use of the terms is not meant to establish a definitive length, just a relational length. Hand movements to alter the elevational grade of the dual tracks causes spherical objects, such as marbles, placed on the tracks to travel around the track due to the force of gravity. The speed of the spherical objects can be altered by altering the elevation grade to be more severe (faster) or more gradual (slower).
In another aspect of the disclosure, a hand-held, dual-track race fidget toy has a short inner track, an adjacent longer outer track and at least three curve track segments to complete a closed track. A lane-exchange track segment permits spherical objects placed on one of the tracks to cross over to the other adjacent track. Force inputs from hand motions that alter the angle or grade of the track allow gravity to impact the speed/velocity of the spherical objects as they travel along the tracks. The lane exchange track segment ensures each marble traverses the same length of track for every two laps around the track.
In yet another aspect of the disclosure, a hand-held, dual-track race fidget toy has a short inner track, an adjacent long outer track and at least three curve track segments to complete a closed track. Adjacent curve track segments are connected by lane-exchange track segments that permit spherical objects placed on the tracks to cross over to the other track before traversing the next curve. By incorporating lane-exchange track segments between the curve track segments, each spherical object on the tracks will travel the same distance per two laps regardless which track is the starting track for a particular spherical object.
In a further aspect of the disclosure, a hand-held, dual-track race fidget toy has two interconnected, three-curve, dual-track segments. Each three-curve dual-track segment has a short inner track and an adjacent longer outer track. At least one lane-exchange track segment is included in each three-curve, dual-track segment between two adjacent curve track segments. These lane-exchange track segments permit spherical objects on the tracks to cross over lanes during travel along the segment. The two three-curve, dual-track segments are connected together by a shared transition lane-exchange track segment that connects the outer tracks together. Spherical objects traveling on the outer track of one of the two three-curve, dual-track segments will cross over to the outer track of the other three-curve, dual-track segment via the transition lane-exchange track segment. In this embodiment, the inner tracks of the two three-curve, dual-track segments are not connected.
In a yet further aspect of the disclosure, a hand-held, dual-track race fidget toy has two interconnected, three-curve, dual-track segments. A first, three-curve, dual-track segment has a short inner track or lane and an adjacent longer track or lane. At least one first lane-exchange track segment connects two adjacent curve track segments. A second, three-curve, dual-track segment has a short inner track and an adjacent longer track or lane. At least one second lane-exchange track segment connects two adjacent curve track segments. The second, three-curve, dual-track segment is dimensioned to surround the first, three-curve dual-track segment. The first and second three-curve, dual-track segments are connected together via a transition lane-exchange track segment that connects the outer lane of the first, three-curve, dual-track segment to the inner lane of the second, three-curve, dual-track segment.
In a still further aspect of the disclosure, a hand-held, dual-track racing fidget toy has two interconnected, four-curve, dual-track segments. A first, four-curve, dual-track segment has a short inner track or lane and an adjacent long track or lane. At least one first lane-exchange track segment connects two adjacent curve track segments. A second, four-curve, dual-track segment has a short inner track or lane and an adjacent long track or lane. At least one second lane-exchange track segment connects two adjacent curve track segments. The second, four-curve, dual-track segment is dimensioned to surround the first, four-curve dual-track segment. The first and second four-curve, dual-track segments are connected together vie a transition lane-exchange track segment that connects the outer lane of the first, four-curve, dual-track segment to the inner lane of the second, four-curve, dual-track segment.
In another aspect of the disclosure, an X-shaped or butterfly-shaped, four-curve, hand-held, dual-track or dual-lane, race fidget toy has a short inner lane, an adjacent long outer lane, four curve track segments and a four-way intersection segment. A transition lane-exchange track segment connects, or is positioned between, one set of adjacent curve track segments. A first dual-lane straight track segment is connected to one curve at one end and to a diametrically-opposed curve at a second end. A second dual-lane straight track segment is connected to a second curve at one end and to a second diametrically-opposed curve at a second end. The first dual-lane straight track segment and the second dual-lane straight track segment intersect at the four-way intersection segment that has lane guides to permit spherical objects to continue along the entire lengths of the straight track segments without interruption other than a collision with a spherical object travelling through the four-way intersection segment from the other dual-lane straight track segment.
In yet another aspect of the disclosure, a modular hand-held, partial dual-track or dual-lane race fidget toy has modular straight sections, curve sections, and lane-exchange sections. Each straight, curve, and lane-exchange section is formed with post-receiving sleeves extending downwardly from the sections. One or more track support bases are formed with posts to receive the post-receiving sleeves of the straight, curve, and lane-exchange sections to form dual-lane race tracks.
In still another aspect of the disclosure, a hand-held, dual-track or dual-lane race fidget toy is formed with a short inner track and an adjacent long outer track with at least three dual curve track segments to complete a circuitous path. A first plurality of post-receiving sleeves are formed at the inner curve track segments of the fidget toy. A track support cover is formed with a plurality of posts spaced to match the spacing of the post-receiving sleeves to permit the dual-lane fidget toy to be secured to the track support cover by inserting and securing each post in a post-receiving sleeve. A second plurality of post-receiving sleeves are formed at each of the inner curve track segments radially outside the first plurality of post-receiving sleeves. A plurality of corresponding cover bores are formed in the cover with each of the plurality of cover bores aligned with one of the second plurality of post-receiving sleeves. The second plurality of post-receiving sleeves and cover bores permit posts to be inserted through the cover and into the second plurality of post-receiving bores to permit dual-track or dual-lane race fidget toys to be stacked to form vertical layers of a multi-level race fidget toy.
In a further aspect of the disclosure, a stacked, three-curve, hand-held, dual-track or dual-lane race fidget toy is constructed from two or more stacked three-curve, dual-lane circuits. Each dual-lane circuit has a short inner track or lane and an adjacent long outer track or lane with at least three dual curve track segments directly connected or indirectly connected with straight, dual-lane segments to complete a circuitous path. Each dual-lane circuit has a cover. Each dual-lane circuit is dimensioned to match the dimensions of any other dual-lane circuit. Through-bore sleeves are formed at the inner curve track segments of each of the dual-lane circuits. Bores are formed in the covers that align with the through-bores sleeves formed in the dual-lane circuits. Stacking poles are dimensioned to fit within the through-bore sleeves to permit dual-lane circuits to be stacked on the stacking poles.
In a yet further aspect of the disclosure, a rectangular-shaped hand-held triple-track race fidget toy is formed with a short inner track, an adjacent middle track, and a longer outer track with four curve track segments to complete a circuitous path. Two lane-exchange track segments, one connecting the outer track or lane to the middle track or lane and a second connecting the middle lane to the inner track or lane permit spherical objects placed on the tracks to cross over to the other tracks. Force inputs from hand motions that alter the angle or grade of the track allow gravity to impact the speed of the spherical objects as they travel along the tracks. The lane-exchange track segments ensure each marble traverses the same length of the track for every three laps around the track. The rectangular-shaped hand-held triple-track race fidget toy may also be formed with attachment clamps to fit onto an I Phone®, the latter of which is not part of the disclosure. The spherical objects are manipulated by force inputs derived from hand motions applied to the held I phone® structure.
In a still further aspect of the disclosure, a modular, hand-held, dual-lane race fidget toy is formed from modular dual-lane straight track segments, modular dual-lane curve segments, a base segment and a cover segment. Modular dual-lane transition lane-exchange track segments also may be used. Each modular dual-lane straight track segment, modular dual-lane curve segment and modular dual-lane transition segment is formed with posts oriented in downward and/or upward direction(s). The base or cover segment is formed with post-receiving bores. Each post is dimensioned to fit within a post-receiving bore and dimensioned to form a friction fit engagement. The post-receiving bores are spaced to permit multiple track configurations to be assembled.
In another aspect of the disclosure, a modular, non-hand-held dual-track racing toy is formed from modular dual-lane straight track segments, modular dual-lane curve segments, modular dual-lane transition or lane-exchange track segments, and a base or cover. Each straight track segment, curve segment, and transition segment has downwardly and/or upwardly oriented posts. The base or cover segment is formed with post-receiving bores. The post receiving bores are spaced to permit multiple track configurations to be assembled. The base or cover is placed on an incline allowing spherical objects to travel along the assembled track from the force of gravity down a dual-lane race path from start to finish.
Multiple non-hand-held dual tracks may be stacked into a larger assembly with the bases or covers of adjacent stacked tracks having opposing inclines and with the lateral edges of the stacked tracks aligned vertically. A top non-hand-held track is inclined to urge spherical objects on the track to move down the incline via the force of gravity. A spherical ball capture track segment extends beyond an edge of a bottom or lower non-hand-held track to capture spherical objects falling off the top or upper non-hand-held track so as to feed the spherical object into the track(s)/lane(s) assembled on the lower or bottom non-hand-held track, which is inclined in a direction opposite the direction of the incline of the top or upper non-hand-held track so as to urge the spherical object to traverse the lower or bottom non-hand-held track via the force of gravity to a finish or end point of the entire assembly.
In yet another aspect of the disclosure, a flower-shaped, hand-held dual-track racing fidget toy is formed from a plurality of interconnected three-sided dual-track segments, each segment of which forms a complete circuit. Each three-side dual-track segment has a short inner track or lane and a longer outer track or lane and is formed with three dual-track curve track segments connected together with transition lane-exchange track segments to form a complete circuit. One transition lane-exchange track segment is placed between two adjacent dual-track curve track segments without any contact with any of the other three-sided dual-track segments. Two other transition lane-exchange track segments are placed between other pairs of two adjacent dual-track curve track segments so as to connect the outer lanes of adjacent three-sides dual-track segments. The interconnection of the three-sided, dual-track segments form a general circular shape with each three-sided, dual-track segment having the appearance of a flower petal that combine to form the flower shape.
In a further aspect of the disclosure, a three-sided, hand-held, dual-track racing fidget toy is formed from three dual-track curve track segments, two dual-track straight track segments and two shorter dual-track straight track segments placed between the ends of a pair of adjacent dual-track curve track segments with a transition lane-exchange track segment placed between the two shorter dual-track straight track segments. Each of the dual-track curve track segments has a short inner track and a longer outer track. Inner walls of the two dual-track straight track segments are formed with off-ramps that permit spherical objects on the inner track to travel to one or more holding areas formed inside the inner wall of the inside track.
In a yet further aspect of the disclosure, an oval-shaped, dual-track racing fidget toy is formed with two semi-circular dual-track curve track segments with each curve having a short inner track or lane and a longer outer track or lane adjacent the inner track lane. One straight dual-track section is connected to one end of each of the dual-track curve track segments. The other ends of the dual-track curve track segments are connected by the combination of two short dual-track straight track segments, each secured to one of the dual-track curve ends. The two short dual-track straight track segments are connected together with a dual-track transition lane-exchange track segment.
In a further aspect of the disclosure, a dual-track segment is formed with trenches in each of the track lanes. The trenches enable the spherical objects to follow a more precise path along the straightaways and turns, as long as force inputs from hand motions and/or track set-ups allow the spherical objects to remain within the trenches. The upper edges of the trenches or channels function as rails that engage spherical objects passing over the trenches at two points on the spherical object's surface. This provides traction and path control as the spherical object traverses the track components having the trenches. Alternatively, raised rails may be applied to the tracks to impart the same effect. Dual-track transitional lane-change segments may be formed with or without the trenches and/or rails. The trenches and/or rails can create impediments to travel during the cross-over so lane-change segments with smooth transition surfaces may be used.
In a yet further aspect of the disclosure, incrementally spaced elongate steps formed on the banked portions of the dual-track curve walls permit spherical objects to traverse the walls at different heights on the curved walls to change the angular transition to and from the curve sections to and from the straight track sections to impart varying degrees of velocity when exiting the curve track segments. With sufficient inertia to reach the steps, the elongate steps permit the spherical objects to maintain a specific height on the curve by providing a gravity-opposing engagement point or line for the spherical object during traversal of the curve. Different velocities imparted on the spherical objects when entering the curve will enable the spherical object to enter different paths arranged vertically on the outer sides of the curve track segments. Different velocities will enable different paths to be followed.
In a still further aspect of the disclosure, closed-circuit, dual-track racing fidget toys are formed with dual-track straight track segments, dual-track curve segments and dual-track transition lane-exchange track segments. Each segment type may include incremental elevation changes that transition smoothly from one segment to another and may include drop-offs as well as increasing and decreasing elevational grades.
In another aspect of the disclosure, a closed-circuit, dual-track racing fidget toy is formed with a plurality of curve segments and optional straight track segments. A pair of parallel trenches are formed on an inside surface of the segments to form two parallel closed-circuit race paths. In this embodiment, a center wall is not required to maintain spherical objects on the discrete race paths. An outer trench is longer than an inner trench in the dual-lane configuration. These and other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent from a review of the appended drawings and a reading of the following detailed description of the disclosure.
Referring now to
To operate racing fidget toy 10, a user holds the toy in a hand and rotates the toy relative to a vertical axis to cause spherical objects placed on the track lanes to travel along the lanes via the force of gravity. By changing the grade or angle of the track lanes relative to a vertical axis, the spherical objects will travel downhill along and around the track. By shifting the degree of rotation as well as the direction of rotation, spherical objects on the track lanes can accelerate, decelerate, change direction or remain stationary. One drawback to racing fidget toy 10 is that inside or first track lane 16 is shorter than outside or second track lane 22. Because of this, the spherical object placed on the inside lane will traverse the course or circuit faster than the spherical object on the outside line, provided the two spherical objects have the same size and mass. One way to adjust for this discrepancy is to use two differently sized spherical objects.
Another way to address the discrepancy between the lane lengths is to connect the lanes together in such a manner so the two spherical objects change or exchange lanes. Referring now to
Dual-lane racing fidget toy 10′ is essentially the same as dual-lane racing fidget toy 10 with a transition lane-exchange track segment 26 substituted for one of the dual-lane straight track segments 14. Dual-lane racing fidget toy 10′ has three dual-lane curve track segments, designated generally as 12′, to form a closed circuit. Dual-lane curve track segments 12′, may be connected directly, or may be connected via dual-lane straight track segments, designated generally as 14′, (with the exception of one dual-lane straight track segment being substituted with transition lane-exchange track segment 26), with one end of a dual-lane straight track segment 14′ connected to one end of a first curve and a second end of a dual-lane straight track segment connected to one end of a second curve. Each lane is defined by two walls. An inside or first track or lane 16′ is defined by an inside track wall 18′ and a center track wall 20′ that may be shared in common with an outside or second track lane 22′. Outside or second track or lane 22′ is defined by an outside track wall 24′ and center track wall 20′. Like the lanes of dual-lane racing fidget toy 10, in terms of length, inside or first track or lane 16′ of dual-lane racing fidget toy 10′ is shorter than outside or second track or lane 22′. Each lane defines a smooth, semi-circular or partial circular shape in cross section. Transitions between the track walls and the floors of the lanes are smooth. The lane shapes and transitions between the walls and lane floors provide a suitable surface to permit spherical objects, such as marbles to freely travel along the closed-circuit lanes.
Transition lane-exchange track segment 26 has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane curve 12′ in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the lane-exchange track segment. A first inner lane-exchange lane 28 has a first inner exchange-lane end 30 that connects to first or inner lane 16′ of a first dual-lane curve 12′ and a second inner exchange-lane end 32 that connects to a second or outer lane 22′ of a second dual-lane curve 12′. A second outer lane-exchange lane 34 of transition lane-exchange track segment 26 has a first outer exchange-lane end 36 that connects to the second or outer lane 22′ of the first dual-lane curve 12′ and a second outer-exchange lane end 38 that connects to the first or inner lane 16′ of second dual-lane curve 12′. First inner lane-exchange lane 28 and second outer lane-exchange lane 34 cross at lane junction 40. A transition lane-exchange inner wall 42 aligns with an inner wall 18′ of dual-lane curve 12′ and a transition lane-exchange outer wall 44 aligns with an outer wall 24′ of dual-lane curve 12′.
Transition lane-exchange inner wall 42 is curved with a primary inner wall curve 43 arranged to direct a spherical object travelling in inner lane 16′ to traverse the transition lane-exchange track segment 26 from a counter-clockwise direction inwardly toward the lane junction 40. Transition lane-exchange inner wall 42 has a secondary inner wall curve 45 arranged to receive a spherical object that has travelled over lane junction 40 from second outer lane-exchange lane 34 when the spherical object is travelling in a counter-clockwise direction in outer lane 22′. Secondary inner wall curve 45 transitions the spherical object received by the secondary inner wall curve onto inner lane 16′. Transition lane-exchange outer wall 44 is curved with a primary outer wall curve 47 arranged to direct a spherical object in outer lane 22′ traversing the transition lane-exchange track segment 26 from a counter-clockwise direction inwardly toward the lane junction 40. Transition lane-exchange outer wall 44 has a secondary outer wall curve 49 arranged to receive a spherical object that has travelled over lane junction 40 from first inner lane-exchange lane 28 when the spherical object is travelling in a counter-clockwise direction. Secondary outer wall curve 49 transitions the spherical object received by the secondary outer wall curve onto outer lane 22′. If the spherical objects are travelling in a clockwise direction, the functional interactions between primary inner wall curve 43 and secondary outer wall curve 49 and the functional interactions between secondary inner wall curve 45 and primary outer wall curve 47 will be the reverse of the interactions when spherical objects are travelling in a counter-clockwise direction.
When a spherical object is placed on outer lane 22′, as it travels around the fidget toy in a counter-clockwise direction, it transitions to inner lane 16′ via the transition lane-exchange track segment 26 and remains on inner lane 16′ for a full circuit until it transitions back to outer lane 22′ when it passes again through transition lane-exchange track segment 26. A spherical object initially placed on inner lane 16′ will transition to outer lane 22′ via transition lane-exchange track segment 26 and return to inner lane 16′ after making a full circuit and passing again through transition lane-exchange track segment 26. It should be understood that dual-lane racing fidget toy 10′ can be modified to include multiple transition lane-exchange track segments 26 in series to create multiple cris-crossing paths in the enclosed circuit race fidget toy.
Referring now to
Each lane of the dual-lane components is defined by two walls. An inside or first track lane 16″ is defined by an inside track wall 18″ and a center track wall 20″ that may be shared in common with an outside or second track lane 22″. It should be understood the center track wall, for this embodiment as well as for any other embodiment disclosed herein have dual- or multi-lane segments, can be two discrete adjacent walls, each dedicated to a single lane (or multiple pairs for multi-lane embodiments). Outside or second track lane 22″ is defined by an outside track wall 24″ and center track wall 20″. Like the lanes of dual-lane racing fidget toy 10, in terms of length, inside or first track lane 16″ of dual-lane racing fidget toy 10″ is shorter than outside or second track lane 22″. Each lane defines a smooth, semi-circular or partial circular shape in cross section. Transitions between the track walls and the floors of the lanes are smooth. The lane shapes and transitions between the walls and lane floors provide a suitable surface to permit spherical objects, such as marbles to freely travel along the closed-circuit lanes.
Transition lane-exchange track segment 26″ has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane curve 12″ in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the lane-exchange track segment. A first inner lane-exchange lane 28″ has a first inner exchange-lane end 30″ that connects to first or inner lane 16″ of a first dual-lane curve 12″ and a second inner exchange-lane end 32″ that connect to a second or outer lane 22″ of a second dual-lane curve 12″. A second outer lane-exchange lane 34″ of transition lane-exchange track segment 26″ has a first outer exchange-lane end 36″ that connects to the second or outer lane 22″ of the first dual-lane curve 12″ and a second outer-exchange lane end 38″ that connect to the first or inner lane 16″ of second dual-lane curve 12″. First inner lane-exchange lane 28″ and second outer lane-exchange lane 34″ cross at lane junction 40″. A transition lane-exchange inner wall 42″ aligns with an inner wall of dual-lane curve 12″ and a transition lane-exchange outer wall 44″ aligns with an outer wall of dual-lane curve 12″. When a spherical object is placed on outer lane 22″, as it travels around the fidget toy in a counter-clockwise direction, it transitions to inner lane 16″ via the transition lane-exchange track segment 26″ and remains on inner lane 16″ through the next dual-lane curve 12″ and then transitions back to outer lane 22″ when it passes again through the next transition lane-exchange track segment 26″. Conversely, a spherical object initially placed on inner lane 16″ will transition to outer lane 22″ via transition lane-exchange track segment 26″ and return to inner lane 16″ after passing through a dual-lane curve 12″ then passing through the next transition lane-exchange track segment 26″.
Referring now to
Two of the dual-lane curve track segments 12″′ are connected with a transition lane-exchange track segment 26″′ that has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane curve track segments 12″′ in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the lane-exchange track segment. Transition lane-exchange track segments 26″′ have the same features as transition lane-exchange track segment 26, the descriptions of which are incorporated here by reference. A first inner lane-exchange lane 28″′ has a first inner exchange-lane end 30″′ that connects to first or inner lane 16″′ of a first dual-lane curve 12″′ and a second inner exchange-lane end 32″′ that connect to a second or outer lane 22″′ of a second dual-lane curve 12″′. A second outer lane-exchange lane 34″′ of transition lane-exchange track segment 26″′ has a first outer exchange-lane end 36″′ that connects to the second or outer lane 22″′ of the first dual-lane curve 12″′ and a second outer-exchange lane end 38″′ that connect to the first or inner lane 16″′ of second dual-lane curve 12″′. First inner lane-exchange lane 28″′ and second outer lane-exchange lane 34″′ cross at lane junction 40″′. A transition lane-exchange inner wall 42″′ aligns with an inner wall of dual-lane curve 12″′ and a transition lane-exchange outer wall 44″′ aligns with an outer wall of dual-lane curve 12″′. When a spherical object is placed on outer lane 22″′ on dual-lane straight track segment 14″′, as it travels around the fidget toy in a counter-clockwise direction, it travels through first dual-lane curve 12″′ and then transitions to inner lane 16″′ via the transition lane-exchange track segment 26″′ and remains on inner lane 16″′ through the second dual-lane curve 12″′. When it exits the second dual-lane curve, it enters a master lane-exchange transition segment, designated generally as 46.
Master lane-exchange transition segment 46 has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane curve 12″′ in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the master lane-exchange track segment. Transition segment 46 has two identical, mirror image master crossing track lanes 54 and two identical master lane-exchange outer lanes 48. Each outer lane 48 connects the inner track lanes 16″′ of two dual-lane curve track segments 12″′ of a single, three-curve, dual-lane segment. Master crossing track lanes 54 have a first master crossing track lane end 56 that connects the outer lanes 22″′ of the two three-curve, dual-lane segments. Each of the master crossing track lanes cross over at a master junction 62 and connect at a second master crossing track lane end 58 to the outside lane 22″′ of the other three-curve, dual-lane segment. Master lane-exchange transition segment 46 further has a pair of master lane-exchange inner walls 50 that, along with a pair of master lane-exchange outer walls 52, define master lane-exchange outer lanes 48 and align with the walls that define lane 22″′ of dual-lane curve track segments 12″′ to which they attach. A pair of master crossing lane-exchange walls 60 partially define the crossing lanes and align with outer walls 24″′ of the dual-lane curve track segments 12″′ to which they are attached.
In this embodiment, spherical objects placed on the tracks/lanes will transition from inner lane 16″′ to the outer lane 22″′ of one of the three-curve, dual-lane segments via transition lane-exchange track segment 24″′ and then transition from one of the three-curve, dual-lane segments to the other three-curve, dual-lane segments via master lane-exchange transition segment 46. The same series of transitions happens on both three-curve, dual-lane segments. The same spherical object that transitioned from one three-curve, dual-lane segments will travel around the second three-curve, dual-lane segment outer lane 22″′ and then transition to inner lane 16″′ of the same segment via the transition lane-exchange track segment 24″′ of that segment. After travelling around the segment on inner lane 16″′, the spherical object will transition back to the outer lane 22″′ of the segment and then transition back to the other three-curve, dual-lane segment by again crossing over master lane-exchange transition segment 46. In this manner, each spherical object placed on a lane of racing fidget toy 10″′ will traverse all the lanes of the toy in a perpetual cycle until inertial and gravitation forces are no longer applied to the spherical objects.
Referring now to
Two of the dual-lane curve track segments 12IV are connected with a transition lane-exchange track segment 26IV positioned between two dual-lane, straight track segments 14IV. Transition lane-exchange track segments 26IV have the same features as transition lane-exchange track segment 26, the descriptions of which are incorporated here by reference. The two dual-lane, straight track segments 14IV are connected to a dual-lane curve 12IV is the manner disclosed herein above at one end and to the transition lane-exchange track segment 26IV at a second end. It should be noted that the length of the dual-lane straight track segments 14IV are longer for the outer three-curve, dual-lane segment. This is what accounts for the larger size of the outer three-curve, dual-lane segment.
Transition lane-exchange track segment 26IV has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane, straight track segments 14IV in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the lane-exchange track segment. A first inner lane-exchange lane 28IV has a first inner exchange-lane end 30IV that connects to first or inner lane 16IV of a first dual-lane, straight track segment 14IV and a second inner exchange-lane end 32IV that connect to a second or outer lane 22IV of a second dual-lane, straight track segment 14IV. A second outer lane-exchange lane 34IV of transition lane-exchange track segment 26IV has a first outer exchange-lane end 36IV that connects to the second or outer lane 22IV of the first dual-lane, straight track segment 14IV and a second outer-exchange lane end 38IV that connects to the first or inner lane 16IV of second dual-lane, straight track segment 14IV. First inner lane-exchange lane 28IV and second outer lane-exchange lane 34IV cross at lane junction 40IV. A transition lane-exchange inner wall 42IV aligns with an inner wall of dual-lane, straight track segment 14IV and a transition lane-exchange outer wall 44IV aligns with outer wall 24IV of dual-lane, straight track segment 14IV. When a spherical object is placed on outer lane 22IV on dual-lane straight track segment 14IV, as it travels around the fidget toy in a counter-clockwise direction, it travels through first dual-lane curve 12IV and then transitions to inner lane 16IV via the transition lane-exchange track segment 26IV and remains on inner lane 16IV through the second dual-lane curve 12IV. When it exits the second dual-lane curve, it enters a master lane-exchange transition segment, designated generally as 46IV.
Master lane-exchange transition segment 46IV has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane, straight track segments 14IV in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the master lane-exchange track segment. Transition segment 46IV has two identical, mirror image master crossing track lanes, a first master crossing lane 54IV and a second master crossing lane 55IV. Transition segment 46IV further has two identical master lane-exchange outer lanes, a first master outer lane 48IV and a second master outer lane 49IV. First master outer lane 48IV connects the inner track lanes 16IV of two dual-lane, straight track segments 14IV positioned on either side of master lane-exchange transition segment 46IV of the smaller or inside three-curve, dual-lane segment. Second master outer lane 49IV connects the outer track lanes 22IV of two dual-lane, straight track segments 14IV positioned on either side of master lane-exchange transition segment 46IV of the larger or outside three-curve, dual-lane segment. First master crossing track lane 54IV has a first master crossing track lane end 56IV that connects to the outer lane 22IV of the inner three-curve, dual-lane segment and a second master crossing track lane end 58IV that connects to the inner lane 16IV of the outer three-curve, dual-lane segment. Second master crossing track lane 55IV has a first master crossing track lane end 57IV that connects to the inner lane 16IV of the outer three-curve, dual-lane segment and a second master crossing track lane end 59IV that connects to the outer lane 22IV of the inner three-curve, dual-lane segment. The master crossing track lanes cross over at a master junction 62IV. Master lane-exchange transition segment 46IV further has a pair of master lane-exchange inner walls 50IV that, along with a pair of master lane-exchange outer walls 52IV, define master lane-exchange outer lanes 48IV and 49IV, and align with the walls that define inner lane 16IV of the dual-lane, straight track segments 14IV of the inner three-curve, dual-lane segment and define the outer lane 22IV of the dual-lane segments 14IV of the outer three-curve, dual-lane segment, to both of which they attach. A pair of master crossing lane-exchange walls 60IV partially define the crossing lanes and align with center walls 20IV of the dual-lane, straight track segments 14IV of both the inner and outer three-curve, dual-lane segments to which they are attached.
In this embodiment, like the embodiment shown in
Referring now to
Two of the dual-lane curve track segments 12V are connected with a transition lane-exchange track segment 26V positioned between two dual-lane, straight track segments 14V that connect directly to the two adjacent dual-lane curve track segments. Transition lane-exchange track segments 26V have the same features as transition lane-exchange track segment 26, the descriptions of which are incorporated here by reference. The two dual-lane, straight track segments 14V are connected to a dual-lane curve 12V in the manner disclosed hereinabove at one end and to the transition lane-exchange track segment 26V at a second end. It should be noted that the length of the dual-lane straight track segments 14V are longer for the outer four-curve, dual-lane segment. This is what accounts for the larger size of the outer four-curve, dual-lane segment. Transition lane-exchange track segment 26V has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane, straight track segments 14V in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the lane-exchange track segment. A first inner lane-exchange lane 28V has a first inner exchange-lane end 30V that connects to first or inner lane 16V of a first dual-lane, straight track segment 14V and a second inner exchange-lane end 32V that connect to a second or outer lane 22V of a second dual-lane, straight track segment 14V. A second outer lane-exchange lane 34V of transition lane-exchange track segment 26V has a first outer exchange-lane end 36V that connects to the second or outer lane 22V of the first dual-lane, straight track segment 14V and a second outer-exchange lane end 38V that connects to the first or inner lane 16V of second dual-lane, straight track segment 14V. First inner lane-exchange lane 28V and second outer lane-exchange lane 34V cross at lane junction 40V. A transition lane-exchange inner wall 42V aligns with an inner wall of dual-lane, straight track segment 14V and a transition lane-exchange outer wall 44V aligns with outer wall 24V of dual-lane, straight track segment 14V.
The transition lane-exchange track segments 26V of the outer and inner four-curve, dual-lane segments are shown being aligned side by side. It should be understood that transition lane-exchange track segments 26V can be positioned at any point between adjacent dual-lane curve track segments 16V and not be aligned side by side. When a spherical object is placed on outer lane 22V on dual-lane straight track segment 14V, as it travels around the fidget toy in a counter-clockwise direction, it travels through first dual-lane curve 12V and then transitions to inner lane 16V via the transition lane-exchange track segment 26V and remains on inner lane 16IV through the second dual-lane curve 12V. When it exits the second dual-lane curve, it enters a master lane-exchange transition segment, designated generally as 46V.
Master lane-exchange transition segment 46V has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane, straight track segments 14V in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the master lane-exchange track segment. Transition segment 46V has two identical, mirror image master crossing track lanes, a first master crossing track lane 54V and a second master crossing track lane 55V, and two identical master lane-exchange outer lanes, a first master lane-exchange outer lane 48V and a second master lane-exchange outer lane 49V. First outer lane 48V connects to the outer lane 22V of two dual-lane, straight track segments 14V of the outer four-curve, dual-lane segment. Second outer lane 49V connects to the inner lane 16V of two dual-lane, straight track segments 14V of the inner four-curve, dual-lane segment. First master crossing track lane 54V have a first master crossing track lane end 56V that connects to the outer lane 22V of the inner four-curve, dual-lane segment. A first master crossing track lane second end 58V connects to the inner lane 16V of the outer four-curve, dual-lane segment. Second master crossing track lane 55V has a second master crossing track lane first end 57V that connects the inner lane 16V of the outer four-curve, dual-lane segment to the outer lane 22V of the inner four-curve, dual-lane segment. A second master crossing track lane second end 59V connects to the outer lane 22V of the inner four-curve, dual-lane segment. Each of the master crossing track lanes cross over at a master junction 62V. Master lane-exchange transition segment 46IV further has a pair of master lane-exchange inner walls 50IV that, along with a pair of master lane-exchange outer walls 52IV, define master lane-exchange outer lanes 48IV and 49IV, and align with the walls that define inner lane 16IV of the dual-lane, straight track segments 14IV of the inner three-curve, dual-lane segment and define the outer lane 22IV of the dual-lane segments 14IV of the outer three-curve, dual-lane segment, to both of which they attach. A pair of master crossing lane-exchange walls 60IV partially define the crossing lanes and align with center walls 20IV of the dual-lane, straight track segments 14IV of both the inner and outer three-curve, dual-lane segments to which they are attached.
In this embodiment, like the embodiment shown in
Referring now to
Four-way intersection 70 has a center post 72 that functions to give definition to the crossing lanes. The surface of the intersection has intersecting radiuses that provide a smooth transition through the intersection from all directions. Unlike the transition lane-exchange track segments disclosed herein, four-way intersection 70 does not cause lane changes but functions purely as an intersection whereby spherical objects passing through four-way intersection 70 remain in the same lane, inner or outer, from which they enter the intersection. It should be noted that the inner lane on one side of the four-way intersection 70 becomes the outer lane on the other side of intersection 70. As such, with this embodiment, the distance travelled by each spherical object, if two spherical objects are raced, is the same distance regardless which lane each spherical object starts from even without a transition lane-exchange track segment described below.
Transition lane-exchange track segment 26VI has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane straight track segments 14VI in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the lane-exchange track segment. Transition lane-exchange track segment 26VI has the same features as transition lane-exchange track segment 26, the descriptions of which are incorporated here by reference. A first inner lane-exchange lane 28VI has a first inner exchange-lane end 30VI that connects to first or inner lane 16VI of a first dual-lane straight track segment 14VI and a second inner exchange-lane end 32VI that connect to a second or outer lane 22VI of a second dual-lane straight track segment 14VI. A second outer lane-exchange lane 34VI of transition lane-exchange track segment 26VI has a first outer exchange-lane end 36VI that connects to the second or outer lane 22VI of the first dual-lane straight track segment 14VI and a second outer-exchange lane end 38VI that connects to the first or inner lane 16VI of second dual-lane straight track segment 14VI. First inner lane-exchange lane 28VI and second outer lane-exchange lane 34VI cross at lane junction 40VI. A transition lane-exchange inner wall 42VI aligns with an inner wall of dual-lane straight track segment 14VI and a transition lane-exchange outer wall 44VI aligns with an outer wall 24VI of dual-lane straight track segment 14VI.
When a spherical object is placed on outer lane 22VI, as it travels around the fidget toy in a counter-clockwise direction, it transitions to inner lane 16VI via the transition lane-exchange track segment 26VI and remains on inner lane 16VI through the first dual-lane curve 12VI, crossing dual-lane straight track segment 14VI, through four-way intersection 70 and on to the remaining dual-lane straight track segments and dual-lane curve track segments including through four-way intersection 70 for a second time until the spherical object returns to transition lane-exchange track segment 26VI.
Referring now to
Extending downwardly from a bottom of dual-lane straight track segment 14VII are post anchor sleeves 15VII. Extending downwardly from a bottom of dual-lane curve track segments 12VII are curve post anchor sleeves 17VII. Extending downwardly from the bottom of dual-lane exchange sections 26VII are exchange post anchor sleeves 99VII. Post anchor sleeves 15VII, curve post anchor sleeves 17VII, and exchange post anchor sleeves 99-7 define bores structured to receive posts or similar structures. An anchor base, designated generally as 19VII, is formed with a plurality of spaced anchor posts 21VII dimensioned to fit within the bores of post anchor sleeves 15VII, curve post anchor sleeves 17VII, and exchange post anchor sleeves 99VII. By aligning the anchor sleeves on the modular combined dual-lane segments with the anchor posts 21VII on anchor base 19VII, the combined dual-lane segments can be secured to the anchor base. These post/sleeve combinations are similar to the structure of Lego® block toys that use dimpled top surfaces and cavity bottom surfaces that can be releasably interlocked. By creating random or set patterns of anchor posts 21VII on anchor base 19VII, multiple pieces of the modular combined dual-lane segments can be arranged to form a hand-held, fidget toy.
Referring now to
Positioned at the inside curve track segments of dual-lane fidget toy 10VIII are post anchor sleeves 15VIII. Post anchor sleeves 15VIII are hollow and oriented vertically relative to the plane occupied by the dual-lane fidget toy. It should be understood that post anchor sleeves 15VIII can be positioned at any point along the inside or outside walls and/or bottom of dual-lane fidget toy 10VIII and remain within the scope of the disclosure.
Cover 25VIII is formed with a plurality of anchor posts 21VIII spaced to match the spacing of post anchor sleeves 15VIII. Cover 25VIII is triangular, as shown, but may have any regular or irregular perimeter shape. Anchor posts 21VIII are dimensioned to fit within post anchor sleeves 15VIII to form a friction fit. Optionally, the fidget toy can be permanently secured to the cover with the use of an adhesive. To secure dual-lane fidget toy 10VIII to cover 25VIII, post anchor sleeves 15VIII are aligned with anchor posts 21VIII. Next, either the fidget toy 10VIII is pressed onto the anchor posts of cover 25VIII or the cover is pressed onto the anchor sleeves 15VIII of cover 25VIII. Cover 25VIII can be made from a transparent material so any spherical objects travelling along the track lanes may be observed. Any spherical objects placed on the lanes of the fidget toy can be manipulated to move by grasping racing fidget toy 10VIII and manually altering the angle or grade of the assembled anchor base/fidget toy combination.
Referring now to
To form the stacked configuration, elevation posts 23VIII are used. Elevation posts 23VIII are elongate posts with cross-sectional diameters to fit within the bores of post anchor sleeves 95VIII. It should be understood that the cross-sectional shapes of post anchor sleeves 95VIII and elevational posts 23VIII can conform to any regular or irregular geometric shapes as long as the shapes of the posts and sleeves are matching and remain within the scope of the disclosure. To assemble the stacked racing fidget toy 10IX, elevation posts 23VIII are inserted into the post anchor sleeves 95VIII of one dual-lane racing fidget toy 10VIII passing through a roof bore 97VIII. A second dual-lane racing fidget toy 10VIII is then lowered onto the elevation posts 23VIII by aligning the post anchor sleeves 95VIII of the second dual-lane racing fidget toy with the elevation posts. The second dual-lane racing fidget toy is held suspended above the first dual-lane racing fidget toy via a friction fit between the elevation posts and the post anchor sleeves. Alternatively, elevation posts 23VIII may be formed with stop flanges (not shown) positioned at a selected location distal a bottom end of the elevation posts to function as a vertical stop for any dual-lane racing fidget toys positioned on the elevation posts above the stop flanges. Additionally, the stacked dual-lane racing fidget toy assemblies may be permanently affixed together via adhesive, mechanical fasteners and the like.
Referring now to
Extending outwardly and downwardly from at least two opposing sides of triple-lane fidget toy 10X are clips, designated generally as 85, that permit the fidget toy to be clipped to a flat surface, such as the surface of a cell phone 83. Clips 85 include a lateral clip segment 86 and a vertical clip segment 87 that together form an “L” shape. The inner surfaces of the vertical clip segments, i.e., the surfaces that face toward a center of the triple-lane fidget toy 10X, are spaced to have a dimension slightly smaller than the width of cell phone 83. The material used to form clips 85, e.g., elastomeric polymers, permits the clips to flex outwardly when urged over the sides of cell phone 83. The clips will then rebound and exert an inwardly directed force against the opposing walls of the cell phone so as to form a friction fit with the cell phone. As shown in
Referring now to
Positioned at the inside curve track segments of an assembled dual-lane fidget toy 10XI are curve anchor posts 29XI. Curve anchor posts 29XI extend upwardly and/or downwardly and substantially orthogonal to a plane occupied by dual-lane fidget toy 10XI. Positioned on either or both the inside wall 18XI and/or the outside wall 24XI of dual-lane straight track segment 14XI are straight track segment anchor posts 27XI. It should be understood that straight track segment anchor posts 27XI can be positioned at any point along the inside or outside walls of dual-lane straight track segment 14XI and remain within the scope of the disclosure. Straight track segment anchor posts 27XI extend upwardly and/or downwardly and substantially orthogonal to a plane occupied by dual-lane fidget toy 10XI.
Unlike cover 25XIII formed with anchor posts 21VIII, cover 25XI is formed with a plurality of cover bores 31XI spaced to match the spacing of straight track segment anchor posts 27XI, curve anchor posts 29XI, and exchange track segment anchor posts 91XI. Cover 25XI is rectangular, as shown, but may have any regular or irregular perimeter shape. Cover bores 31XI are dimensioned to fit over straight track segment anchor posts 27XI, curve anchor posts 29XI, and exchange track segment anchor posts 91XI to form a friction fit. Optionally, the fidget toy can be permanently secured to the cover with the use of an adhesive. To assemble dual-lane fidget toy 10XI, dual-lane curve track segments 12XI, dual-lane straight track segments 14XI, and exchange track segments 26XI are arranged in a closed-circuit pattern as shown in
Referring now to
Multiple non-hand-held dual tracks may be stacked into a larger assembly with the bases or covers of adjacent stacked tracks having opposing inclines and with the lateral ends of the stacked tracks aligned vertically. A top non-hand-held track cover 25XII is inclined with dual track curve segments 12XII, dual-track straight track segments 14XII, start segment 73 and optional transition lane-exchange track segments 26XII assembled together to form a dual-lane race track on cover 25XII that extends from substantially one end to the other. It should be noted that that starting segment 73 does not have to be positioned near an end but may be set back from an end. The tail end of the dual-lane race track should be positioned at an end to allow any spherical object on the rack track to travel past the lower end of the inclined cover 25XII. It further should be noted that since the platform upon which the track is assembled is positioned above another platform, it is being designated a cover although it is functionally a base for the upper track assembly.
The incline of cover 25XII urges spherical objects on the track to move down the incline via the force of gravity from start segment 73 to the last dual-track segment on cover 25XII. A spherical ball dual-lane capture track segment, designated generally as 77, extends beyond an edge of a bottom or lower non-hand-held track assembly to capture spherical objects falling off the top or upper non-hand-held track. Capture track segment 77 is a dual-track segment that extends beyond the edge of a base 19XII and is formed with a stop wall 77a to ensure any spherical object falling off the dual track assembly on cover 25XII will engage with and remain on a dual track assembly positioned on base 19XII. Capture track segment 77 follows the decline of base 19XII so as to feed the spherical object into the track(s)/lane(s) assembled on the lower or bottom non-hand-held track, which is inclined in a direction opposite the direction of the incline of the top or upper non-hand-held track so as to urge the spherical object to traverse the lower or bottom non-hand-held track via the force of gravity to a finish or end point of the entire assembly.
The lower dual track assembly is formed by the assembly of dual track curve segments 12XII, dual-track straight track segments 14XII, capture track segment 77, finish segment 79 and optional transition lane-exchange track segments 26XII assembled together to form a dual-lane race track on base 19XII that extends from substantially one end to the other. It should be noted that that finish segment 79 does not have to be positioned near an end but may be set back from the lowest end of base 19XII. The beginning end of the lower dual-lane race track, i.e., capture track segment 77 must extend beyond the highest end of base 19XII.
To set the inclines/declines of the cover 25XII and base 19XII, posts 71 are inserted into bores 74 in the cover aligned with bores 74 in the base. The bores can be the bores located in the curve track segments of the cover and the base. Cover 25XII and base 19XII are adjusted on posts 74 to create the incline or decline profiles of the platforms. The combination of posts and platforms uses friction to maintain the platforms as a desired height on the posts. The platforms, i.e., the base and the cover may be permanently affixed to the posts via adhesives, mechanical fasteners and the like.
To operate this embodiment of a dual-track race fidget toy, a user places one or two spherical objects on start segment 73. No further input is required by the user. Gravity will urge the spherical objects along the dual-track assemblies in the direction of the lower end of cover 25XII until reaching the lower end of the cover. Through inertia and gravity, the spherical objects will pass over the lower end of the cover and fall onto capture track segment 77. Gravity will then urge the spherical objects to reverse course and follow the lower track assembly toward the lower end of base 19XII. The spherical objects will continue until finish segment 79 at which point the spherical objects will leave the track assembly and be ready to be placed on start segment 73 again for a new race.
Referring now to
Transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIII has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane curve 12XIII in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the lane-exchange track segment. A first inner lane-exchange lane 28XIII has a first inner exchange-lane end 30XIII that connects to first or inner lane 16XIII of a first dual-lane curve 12XIII and a second inner exchange-lane end 32XIII that connect to a second or outer lane 22XIII of a second dual-lane curve 12XIII or the outer lane of a dual-lane straight track segment 14XIII. A second outer lane-exchange lane 34XIII of transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIII has a first outer exchange-lane end 36XIII that connects to the second or outer lane 22XIII of the first dual-lane curve 12XIII and a second outer-exchange lane end 38XIII that connect to the first or inner lane 16XIII of second dual-lane curve 12XIII or the outer lane of the dual-lane straight track segment 14XIII. First inner lane-exchange lane 28XIII and second outer lane-exchange lane 34XIII cross at lane junction 40XIII. A transition lane-exchange inner wall 42XIII aligns with an inner wall of dual-lane curve 12XIII and a transition lane-exchange outer wall 44XIII aligns with an outer wall of dual-lane curve 12XIII. When a spherical object is placed on outer lane 22XIII, as it travels around the fidget toy in a counter-clockwise direction, it transitions to inner lane 16XIII via the transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIII and remains on inner lane 16XIII for a full circuit until it transitions back to outer lane 22XIII when it passes again through transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIII. A spherical object initially placed on inner lane 16XIII will transition to outer lane 22XIII via transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIII and return to inner lane 16XIII after making a full circuit and passing again through transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIII Two of the dual-lane curve segments, each designated generally as 12XIII are connect via a transition lane exchange track segment 12XIII that has two ends that match the ends of dual lane curve track segments 12XIII, in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile.
The six three-curve dual track segments are arranged in a circular, flower-like configuration. Each three-curve dual-track segment 12XIII is in contact with two other three-curve dual-track segments 12XIII In this illustrative embodiment, four consecutive three-curve dual track segments have identical configurations. On two sides of these three-curve dual track segments 12XIII, there are two master lane-exchange transition segments 46XIII that allow the transfer of spherical objects between the adjacent three-curve dual track segments 12XIII.
The other two three-curved dual track segments 12XIII have identical configurations. On one side of each, there is a master lane-exchange transition segment 46XIII On the third side, each three-curve dual track segment has a dual-lane straight track segment 14 XIII. The two dual lane straight track segments are positioned in parallel and in contact with each other, sharing a wall 61. In this embodiment, a spherical object placed at any location will follow a circuitous path through all six three-curve dual-track segments 12XIII, and will touch all lanes of each three-curve dual-track segment after traveling twice on each of the six three-curve dual-track segments.
Referring now to
Dual-lane curve track segments 12XIV may be connected directly, or may be connected via dual-lane straight track segments 14XIV, (with the exception of one dual-lane straight track segment being substituted with transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIV) with one end of a dual-lane straight track segment 14XIV connected to one end of a first curve and a second end of a dual-lane straight track segment connected to one end of a second dual-track curve. Each lane is defined by two walls. An inside or first track lane 16XIV is defined by an inside track wall 18XIV and a center track wall 20XIV that may be shared in common with an outside or second track lane 22XIV. Outside or second track lane 22XIV is defined by an outside track wall 24XIV and center track wall 20XIV.
Transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIV has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane curve 12XIV in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the lane-exchange track segment. A first inner lane-exchange lane 28 XIV has a first inner exchange-lane end 30 XIV that connects to first or inner lane 16XIV of a first dual-lane curve 12XIV and a second inner exchange-lane end 32XIV that connect to a second or outer lane 22XIV of a second dual-lane curve 12XIV. A second outer lane-exchange lane 34XIV of transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIV has a first outer exchange-lane end 36XIV that connects to the second or outer lane 22XIV of the first dual-lane curve 12XIV and a second outer-exchange lane end 38 XIV that connect to the first or inner lane 16XIV of second dual-lane curve 12XIV. First inner lane-exchange lane 28XIV and second outer lane-exchange lane 34XIV cross at lane junction 40XIV. A transition lane-exchange inner wall 42XIV aligns with an inner wall of dual-lane curve 12XIV and a transition lane-exchange outer wall 44 XIV aligns with an outer wall of dual-lane curve 12XIV. When a spherical object is placed on outer lane 22XIV, as it travels around the fidget toy in a counter-clockwise direction, it transitions to inner lane 16XIV via the transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIV and remains on inner lane 16XIV for a full circuit until it transitions back to outer lane 22XIV when it passes again through transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIV. A spherical object initially placed on inner lane 16XIV will transition to outer lane 22XIV via transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIV and return to inner lane 16XIV after making a full circuit and passing again through transition lane-exchange track segment 26XIV.
Inside track wall 18XIV is formed with breaks in the portions of the wall that form the inside walls of dual-lane track segments 14XIV. Storage access ramps 69 are formed in the spaces between the wall breaks to provide a path from inside or first track lane 16XIV to one of a plurality of storage compartments 67. A triangular innermost storage compartment 67 is accessible via a ramp 69 that connects the innermost storage compartment to one of the other storage compartments.
In order to move a spherical object from the race track lanes into the storage compartments 67, the spherical object must be moved to a position on inner lane 16XIV in proximity to one of the plurality of storage access ramps or steps 69. When the fidget toy is manipulated properly in rotation and angle, the spherical object will move from inner lane 16XIV, over access ramp or step 69, and then into storage compartment 67. In order to move spherical objects out of one of the plurality of storage compartments 67, the fidget toy must be manipulated properly in rotation and angle in order to move the spherical object in proximity to the storage ramp or step 69, then via inertial and gravitational force over storage ramp or step 69, and then into inner lane 16XIV.
Referring now to
Each lane is defined by two walls. An inside or first track lane 16XV is defined by an inside track wall 18XV and a center track wall 20XV that may be shared in common with an outside or second track lane 22XV. Outside or second track lane 22XV is defined by an outside track wall 24 XV and center track wall 20XV.
Transition lane-exchange track segment 26XV has two ends that match the ends of dual-lane straight track segments 14XV in terms of shape and cross-sectional profile at the end of the lane-exchange track segment. A first inner lane-exchange lane 28XV has a first inner exchange-lane end 30 XV that connects to first or inner lane 16XV of a first dual-lane straight track segment 14XV and a second inner exchange-lane end 32XV that connect to a second or outer lane 22XV of a second dual-lane straight track segment 14 XV. A second outer lane-exchange lane 34XV of transition lane-exchange track segment 26XV has a first outer exchange-lane end 36XV that connects to the second or outer lane 22XV of the first dual-lane straight track segment 14XIV and a second outer-exchange lane end 38XIV that connect to the first or inner lane 16XIV of second dual-lane straight track segment 14XIV.
First inner lane-exchange lane 28XV and second outer lane-exchange lane 34XV cross at lane junction 40XV. A transition lane-exchange inner wall 42XV aligns with an inner wall of dual-lane straight track segment 14XV and a transition lane-exchange outer wall 44XV aligns with an outer wall of dual-lane straight track segment 14XV. When a spherical object is placed on outer lane 22XV, as it travels around the fidget toy in a counter-clockwise direction, it transitions to inner lane 16XV via the transition lane-exchange track segment 26XV and remains on inner lane 16XV for a full circuit until it transitions back to outer lane 22 XV when it passes again through transition lane-exchange track segment 26XV. A spherical object initially placed on inner lane 16XV will transition to outer lane 22XV via transition lane-exchange track segment 26XV and return to inner lane 16XV after making a full circuit and passing again through transition lane-exchange track segment 26XV.
Referring now to
Trenches 64 enable the spherical objects to follow a more precise path along the straightaways and turns, as long as force inputs from hand motions and/or track set-ups allow the spherical objects to remain within the trenches. As indicated, the upper trench shoulder edges 66 of the trenches or channels function as rails that engage spherical objects passing over the trenches at two points on the spherical object's surface. This provides traction and path control as the spherical object traverses the track components having the trenches. Alternatively, substantially parallel raised rails (not shown) may be applied to the tracks in place of the trenches to impart the same effect. Dual-track transitional lane-change segments may be formed with or without the trenches and/or rails. The trenches and/or rails can create impediments to travel during the cross-over so lane-change segments with smooth transition surfaces may be used in conjunction with track segments formed with trenches or rails.
In another embodiment, formed on the banked portions of the dual- or multi-lane curve segments are a series of incrementally-paced elongate linear steps 75 that permit spherical objects to traverse the walls at different heights on the curved walls to change the angular transition to and from the curve segments to and from the straight track segments to impart varying degrees of velocity when exiting the curve track segments. With sufficient inertia to reach the steps, the elongate steps permit the spherical objects to maintain a specific height on the curve by providing a gravity-opposing engagement point or line for the spherical object to engage during traversal of the curve. Different velocities imparted on the spherical objects when entering the curve will enable the spherical object to enter different elongate paths arranged vertically on the outer sides or banks of the curve segments. Different velocities will enable different paths to be followed to provide added variability to the race fidget toy.
Referring now to
Referring now to
Trenches 64XVIII enable the spherical objects to follow a more precise path along the straightaways and turns, as long as force inputs from hand motions and/or track set-ups allow the spherical objects to remain within the trenches. As indicated, the upper trench shoulder edges 66XVIII of the trenches or channels function as rails that engage spherical objects passing over the trenches at two points on the spherical object's surface. This provides traction and path control as the spherical object traverses the track components having the trenches. Alternatively, pairs of substantially parallel raised rails (not shown) may be applied to the tracks in place of the trenches to impart the same effect. To the extent incorporated into the dual-lane fidget toy, dual-track transitional lane-change segments (not shown) may be formed with trenches and/or rails.
All of the components of the disclosed dual-lane racing fidget toys can be made from a wide variety of materials including metals, wood and plastics well known in the art. As an illustrative, non-limiting example, the materials used to construct the various track sections may be made from Mylar®, polyester, polypropylene, ABS or any similar material known in the art. The components and specialty accessories such as the elevation posts may be formed from thermoset polymers via injection molding, vacuum forming, 3-D printing and the like. The components further may be formed via extrusion processes as are well known in the art. It further should be understood that although all of the embodiments of the closed-circuit race tracks have been described in terms of discrete parts or track segments, all the closed-circuit race track embodiments can be formed as a single piece and remain within the scope of the disclosure.
While the present disclosure has been described in connection with several embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes and modifications may be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is intended by the appended claims to cover all such changes and modifications as come within the true spirit and scope of the disclosure. What we claim as new and desire to secure by United States Letters Patent is
This U.S. Regular Utility Application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/541,317, filed Sep. 29, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63541317 | Sep 2023 | US |
