Patent Grant
8747180
Toy vehicle track sets have been popular for many years and generally include one or more track sections arranged to form a path around which one or more toy vehicles can travel. Toy vehicles which may be used on such track sets may be either self-powered vehicles or may receive power from an external source. In order to increase play value of the track sets, various track amusement features have been added to the track sets. For example, track features, such as stunt devices or elements, including loops, jumps, collision intersections, etc., have been included in such track sets to increase the play value of the track sets.
However, with many track sets, the vehicles run on a closed loop track moving through the same track features lap after lap. Although such track sets may have one or more stunt devices, a vehicle in the track set may perform the same stunt over and over as it travels along the track. Thus, even in track sets with more than one stunt device, the motion of the vehicle generally remains consistent for each vehicle as it travels along a specific section of the track. This repetitive nature of vehicle travel may result in loss of interest in the track set over a short period of time.
Some track sets have incorporated switching mechanisms to enable a user to direct a vehicle to a select travel path. However, generally such systems require manual manipulation of the track and/or manual actuation of a switch to reroute one or more vehicles traveling on the track. Play possibilities may be limited as travel along the select paths may again become repetitive over a short period of time.
Accordingly, it is desirable to provide toy track set with interchangeable elements to provide numerous configurations.
In one embodiment, a relay for a toy is provided, the relay having: a first relay segment having an upper portion rotatably secured to a lower portion for movement between a first position and a second position with respect to the lower portion; a trigger coupled to the first relay segment, the trigger being configured for movement from a first position to a second position; a mechanism for retaining the upper portion in the second position after it has been rotated to the second position from the first position, the upper portion being spring biased towards the first position, wherein the mechanism releases the upper portion to allow for rotation movement of the upper portion to the first position from the second position, when the trigger is moved from the first position to the second position; a projectile launcher for launching a projectile into air after the release mechanism releases the upper portion and the upper portion is rotated to the first position from the second position; and a second relay segment, the second relay segment having a release mechanism for launching a portion of the second relay segment in the air as well as launching an object from the relay when the second relay segment is impacted by the projectile.
In another exemplary embodiment, an interchangeable toy track set is provided, the interchangeable toy track set having a plurality of interchangeable relays segments each of which may be coupled to each other to create a plurality of variations for the toy track set; and wherein at least one of the plurality of interchangeable relays has: a first relay segment having an upper portion rotatably secured to a lower portion for movement between a first position and a second position with respect to the lower portion; a trigger coupled to the first relay segment, the trigger being configured for movement from a first position to a second position; a mechanism for retaining the upper portion in the second position after it has been rotated to the second position from the first position, the upper portion being spring biased towards the first position, wherein the mechanism releases the upper portion to allow for rotation movement of the upper portion to the first position from the second position, when the trigger is moved from the first position to the second position; a projectile launcher for launching a projectile into air after the release mechanism releases the upper portion and the upper portion is rotated to the first position from the second position; and a second relay segment, the second relay segment having a release mechanism for launching a portion of the second relay segment in the air as well as launching an object from the relay when the second relay segment is impacted by the projectile.
In still another exemplary embodiment, a method for actuating a relay of a toy track set, the method including the steps of: rotating an upper body of a first relay segment to a first position from a second position, the upper body being spring biased towards the first position; retaining the upper body in the second position by a mechanism; rotating a projectile launcher rotationally secured to the upper body portion to a second position from a first position, the projectile launcher being spring biased towards the first position; retaining the projectile launcher in the second position by the mechanism; actuating a trigger coupled to the first relay segment, the trigger being configured for movement from a first position to a second position, the trigger being coupled to the mechanism wherein movement of the trigger to the second position releases the upper body to allow for rotation movement of the upper body to the first position from the second position and the mechanism releases the projectile launcher to allow to allow for rotational movement of the projectile launcher to the first position from the second position and wherein the projectile launcher launches a projectile into air after the mechanism releases the projectile launcher; and impacting a second relay segment with the projectile wherein the second relay segment launches a portion of the second relay segment into air and an object is launched away from the second relay segment.
a and 1b further illustrate segments of an exemplary toy vehicle track set;
c shows an internal view of an example relay segment;
This application is also related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/581,762 filed on Oct. 19, 2009, the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.
In accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention a customizable track set is provided. In one embodiment, the track set includes a plurality of interchangeable relay segments each of which may be coupled to each other to create a customized expandable track set. The relay segments may include one or more stunt elements and may be selectively positioned at the beginning, middle, or end of the track set. Each relay segment may be configured to enable a toy vehicle to traverse an obstacle and/or perform a stunt and launch the toy vehicle down a track towards another relay segment, which then may initiate a second vehicle to be released and traverse still another obstacle and/or perform still another stunt.
An example track set 100 having three relay segments 110, 112, and 114 is shown in
In this first example, each relay segment 110, 112, and 114 may include an incoming vehicle trigger which may directly or indirectly causes the launching of another outgoing vehicle. The outgoing vehicle from one segment may become the incoming vehicle of a next segment. One or more launchers may be provided to accelerate toy vehicles along the track. As such, the launchers may be configured to engage and urge a toy vehicle to travel along the track. It should be appreciated that although launchers are described herein, vehicles may be manually propelled along the track without the use of a launcher without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
Although any suitable launcher may be used, in the illustrated embodiments, various automatically and manually-triggered release launcher elements are illustrated. A vehicle may be positioned in launch position such that a launch element may slidingly engage the vehicle to propel the vehicle along the track. The launch element may be biased to a launch position, such as by springs, elastic bands or any other suitable biasing mechanism such that release of an activator releases its stored potential energy.
In one example, the relay segments may include triggers, such as conical shaped triggers (shown in
Further, while this example shows a conical trigger, alternatively, it may be planar shaped and angled (e.g., approximately 45 degrees) relative to an incoming track. As a further example and as shown in
In some relay segments, actuation of a trigger by a first vehicle initiates a stunt and release of a second vehicle on the track set. As an example and referring again to
It is noted that track 130 includes direction indicators, such as molded-in arrows, or cut-outs which may indicate vehicle direction and/or assembly instructions for a toy track set. For example, the direction indicators may aid in the ease of assembly for an expandable track set, may provide specific direction of vehicle travel used to initiate stunts, or enable passage past obstacles. Although the direction indicators are shown as a row of cut-out arrows, it should be appreciated that the direction indicators may be of any size and/or shape to indicate assembly direction and/or vehicle travel direction. Further, although a plurality of arrows is illustrated, a single arrow or other cut-out may also be used without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Further, in some embodiments, the direction indicators may be positioned in a center of the track so that the wheels of the vehicles are not impeded. It further should be appreciated that although shown as cut-outs, the direction indicators may be surface indicators, raised moldings, etc.
Referring back to
As shown in
c illustrates a mechanism 127 for performing the affirmation two trigger event. In one embodiment an upper portion 129 of the crane is moved downward in the direction of arrow 131 wherein a plurality of gears 133 are rotated and potential energy is stored in a spring mechanism that is wound as the gears are rotated and a pawl or catch mechanism engages the gears to prevent back driving of the gears by this spring mechanism, wherein the pawl or catch mechanism is released from the engaging position when a conical surface 121 of trigger 120 is engaged thus causing the same to pivot about a pivot point 135 with respect to a lower portion 137 of the crane. Once the kinetic energy of the spring mechanism is released the gear train causes the upper portion of the crane to move upward in a direction opposite to arrow 131 which also causes a clasp 139 to release a pair of claw members 141 from their grasping position illustrated in
Referring again to
Vehicle 140 may actuate a trigger in relay segment 112. The relay segment 112 may actuate launching element 150 to launch a third vehicle 146 toward relay segment 114. In some embodiments, track events may be terminated at trigger 148. However, in other events, another relay segment, stunt element, or obstacle may be added to the track such that the track does not terminate at trigger 148.
It should be appreciated that each relay segment may be selectively positioned in the track chain. As an example, relay segment 110 may be at the beginning, middle or end of the track. Similarly, relay segments 112 and 114 may be positioned at the beginning, middle or end of the track. A user may be able to customize the track by positioning the relay segments in a desired order.
It should be appreciated that the track play of each relay segment may be activated directly or indirectly by actuation of the trigger. As an example of indirect activation, the relay segment may include a stunt element performed by either the first or second vehicle. Further, the stunt element may be performed by a third vehicle. Further still, the stunt element may include multiple simultaneous, parallel, and/or sequential stunts performed by a plurality of vehicles, where the stunts may be performed simultaneously, in sequence with one triggering the next, in parallel, or combinations thereof. In still another embodiment, the launching element and/or the trigger may also include stunt elements performed by one of the first and second, or other vehicles. Although described in regards to actuation of the stunt elements via vehicle triggering, alternatively, track play may commence via manual activation of any of the relay segments or stunt elements. While
Although shown with regard to a single straight-line track, it should be understood that virtually any number of different track designs may be used without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, parallel track configurations may be used, as well as combination sequential/parallel track configurations may be used. Further, various stunts may be performed, rather than the drops and/or loops shown, such as jumping over voids, traversing obstacles, etc.
While not shown in this example, the exiting track section 230 may be coupled to further track sections that may lead to additional relays segments, for example. Also, incoming track section 210 may be adjustable (e.g., rotatable or pivotally mounted to the relay segment for movement in the direction of arrows 211) to enable an incoming vehicle to enter the relay segment from a plurality of angles. Further, incoming track section 210 may be coupled to track segment that may be mounted to a higher altitude position, such that gravity may “launch” the incoming vehicle. Likewise, exiting track section 230 may also be adjustable.
In this example, the trigger is pivotally mounted to the launching stunt element via pins 311 for movement between a first position and a second position in the direction illustrated by arrows 313, wherein movement of trigger from the first position (illustrated) to the second position (not-illustrated) occurs when a vehicle moves into an area 315 between a contact surface of conical trigger 312 and incoming track segment 310 thus forcing the conical trigger upward and away from track segment 310.
In addition, and in order to provide manual activation of the trigger (i.e., to begin a series of triggering events by launching the first car from a relay segment or a plurality of users can individually launch a car from separate relay segments or any combination thereof) a manual switch 314 is also secured to the trigger such that an application of a force in the direction of arrow 317 will cause the trigger to pivot about pivot pins 311 and move the contact surface of the conical portion away from the track segment 310 and dust release the launcher from its launch position.
Referring now to
It should be noted that exiting track sections of each of the relay segments, such as exiting track section 330, may be coupled to further track sections that may lead to additional relays segments. The relay segments may be interchanged such that the track is customized. Also, incoming track sections of the relay segments, such as incoming track section 310, may be adjustable (e.g., rotatably or pivotally mounted to the relay segment for movement in the direction of arrows 309) relative to exiting track section 330 to enable an incoming vehicle to enter the relay segment from a plurality of angles and/or an exiting vehicle to exit the relay segment at a plurality of angles. It being understood that the exiting track section of each relay segment can be coupled to a movable incoming track section of another relay segment via connector track sections releasably secured to each track section via a releasable engagement mechanisms such as a tongue and groove arrangement. Accordingly, and through the use of movable incoming track segment's multiple angles and orientations are capable of being provided by the vehicle tracks set wherein multiple relay segments of installed therein.
While not shown in this example, the exiting track section 730 may be coupled to further track sections that may lead to additional relays segments, for example. Also, incoming track section 710 may be adjustable (e.g., rotatable) relative to exiting track section 730 to enable an incoming vehicle to enter the relay segment from a plurality of angles and/or an exiting vehicle to exit the relay segment at a plurality of angles.
Another basketball hoop stunt 800a is shown in
Similarly, ramp stunt/launcher stunt 804, may be triggered such that, a vehicle, pre-loaded at the top 842 of ramp 850, and held by catch 844, is released (by movement of catch 844) to launch the vehicle out and/or down exiting track section 830, which may actuate or terminate another device, such as rotation of hammer box 716.
While not shown in this example, the exiting track section 930 may be coupled to further track sections that may lead to additional relays segments, for example. Likewise, in this or other examples the incoming track section may be coupled to other relays/stunts via still further track sections. Also, incoming track section 910 may be adjustable (e.g., rotatable) relative to exiting track section 930 to enable an incoming vehicle to enter the relay segment from a plurality of angles and/or an exiting vehicle to exit the relay segment at a plurality of angles.
Continuing with
It should be appreciated that the track sets described herein may be used for toy vehicles. As an example, the toy vehicles may be 1:64 scale models, however other sized toy vehicles may be also used. One exemplary range would be 1:50 scale of less, again it is, of course, understood that scales greater or less than 1:50 are contemplated to be within the scope of exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
A toy vehicle track set 100a having multiple relay segments 110a, 112a, 114a, 116a, 118a and 120a is shown in
In this example, each relay segment 110a, 112a, and 114a may include an incoming vehicle trigger which may directly or indirectly causes the launching of another outgoing vehicle, also referred to herein as a relay segment exit vehicle. As an example, each relay segment may include an incoming track, such as incoming track 122a, for an incoming vehicle, and an exit track, such as exit track 124a, for an outgoing vehicle. The exit track of one relay segment may be interchangeably coupled with the incoming track of a second relay segment such that the outgoing vehicle from one relay segment may become the incoming vehicle of a next relay segment.
One or more launchers may be provided to accelerate toy vehicles along the track. As such, the launchers may be configured to engage and urge a toy vehicle to travel along the track. It should be appreciated that although launchers are described herein, vehicles may be manually propelled along the track without the use of a launcher without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
Although any suitable launcher may be used, in the illustrated embodiments, various automatically and manually-triggered release launcher elements are illustrated. A vehicle may be positioned in launch position such that a launch element may slidingly engage the vehicle to propel the vehicle along the track. The launch element may be biased to a launch position, such as by springs or any other suitable biasing mechanism such that release of an activator releases its stored potential energy.
In one example, the relay segments may include incoming vehicle triggers. The triggers may be configured to enable an incoming vehicle to actuate a stunt and release of an outgoing vehicle from the relay segment. The triggers may be positioned such that a vehicle traveling along the track actuates the trigger.
As one example, the vehicle triggers may be conical-shaped triggers (shown in
Further, while this example shows a conical trigger, alternatively, it may be planar shaped and angled (e.g., approximately 45 degrees) relative to an incoming track. As a further example, an example trigger may have a flat, angled plane formed by a plurality of ridges) that is configured to be contacted by a vehicle on a track. Again, although in one example the trigger may have an angle of approximately 45 degrees, any suitable angle may be applied (e.g. 5-90 degrees) such that a vehicle actuates the trigger. Further, the trigger may be engaged under or along the side of the track, such that the vehicle actuates the trigger by traveling over or through a portion of the track.
In some relay segments, actuation of a trigger by a first vehicle initiates a stunt and release of a second outgoing vehicle on the track set. In some embodiments, manual triggers may also be included, alone or in combination, with the vehicle triggers. Manual triggers may be configured to be actuated such that a stunt is initiated and/or an outgoing vehicle is released from the relay segment. The outgoing vehicle may travel to a second relay segment.
It should be appreciated that the track play of each relay segment may be activated directly or indirectly by actuation of a trigger. As an example of indirect activation, the relay segment may include a stunt element performed by either a first or second vehicle. Further, the stunt element may be performed by a third vehicle. Further still, the stunt element may include multiple simultaneous, parallel, and/or sequential stunts performed by a plurality of vehicles, where the stunts may be performed simultaneously, in sequence with one triggering the next, in parallel, or combinations thereof. In still another embodiment, the launching element and/or the trigger may also include stunt elements performed by one of the first and second, or other vehicles. Although described in regards to actuation of the stunt elements via vehicle triggering, alternatively, track play may commence via manual activation of any of the relay segments or stunt elements.
As an example and referring again to
It is noted that track connector sections, as shown for example at 130a, may be interposed between relay elements extending the distance between a first and second relay element. Thus, in addition to selective positioning of each relay segment, track connector sections may be selectively positioned to enable customization of the track since each of the incoming track sections they are releasably secured thereto are rotatably mounted to the relay segment.
One or more portions of the track set, such as the incoming track and exit track of the relay segments and/or the track connector segment may include direction indicators, shown at 132, such as molded-in arrows, or cut-outs which may indicate vehicle direction and/or assembly instructions for a toy track set. For example, the direction indicators may aid in the ease of assembly for an expandable track set, may provide specific direction of vehicle travel used to initiate stunts, or enable passage past obstacles. Although the direction indicators are shown as a row of cut-out arrows, it should be appreciated that the direction indicators may be of any size and/or shape to indicate assembly direction and/or vehicle travel direction. Further, although a plurality of arrows is illustrated, a single arrow or other cut-out may also be used without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Further, in some embodiments, the direction indicators may be positioned in a center of the track so that the wheels of the vehicles are not impeded. It further should be appreciated that although shown as cut-outs, the direction indicators may be surface indicators, raised moldings, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, the arrows are integrally molded with the track and/or relay segment.
For example, a vehicle released from relay segment 110a and traveling along track 130a in the direction of the direction indicators may contact or engage a second relay segment, e.g. relay segment 112a. As described in more detail below, each relay segment may actuate a stunt. Stunts may include one or more, as well as any combination of, loops, jumps, collisions, simulated explosions, vehicle crashes, vehicle drops, vehicle lifts, vehicle obstacles, vehicle spins and other vehicle obstacles. In some embodiments, stunt vehicles may be preloaded for release upon actuation of the relay segment trigger (e.g. actuation by an incoming vehicle of the vehicle trigger or manual actuation of a trigger).
For example, relay segment 110a may be a stunt element, such as a falling and pivoting ramp element 138a. Upon contact or actuation of trigger 140a, a falling and pivoting ramp stunt event may be initiated. A stunt vehicle (not shown) may be pre-positioned on platform 142a. In the falling and pivoting ramp stunt event, platform 142a may be rotatably coupled to arm 144a which may be pivotally coupled through pivot 146a to the relay segment. Upon actuation by an incoming vehicle, the arm 144a may swing from a first generally vertically-extended position (shown) to a second generally horizontally-extended position. Further, platform 142a may rotate such that the platform rotates to generally correspond to enable release of the stunt car down exit track 148a. As such, the pre-positioned vehicle may be released down exit track 148a toward the next relay segment, such as relay segment 114a.
Addition details illustrating an example falling and pivoting ramp element 112a are shown in
Actuation of trigger 140a may release arm 144a from a first position. The first position, as illustrated, is a substantially vertical position, where platform 142a is in a substantially parallel plane to the ground surface. Upon release of arm 144a from the first position, arm 144a pivots or swings about pivot point or hinge 146a such that the arm falls as indicated by arrow 152a. Further, in some embodiments, platform 142a may be rotatably coupled to arm 144a such that it may rotate as indicated at arrow 154a.
Release of arm 144a and rotation of platform 142a, results in the arm and platform moving to a vehicle release position indicated in dashed lines in
In one embodiment, the platform 142a includes a front portion 160a and a rear portion 162a. Rear portion may include a stop wall 164a to prevent a preloaded vehicle from prematurely releasing from the platform. Additional vehicle engagement features, such as detents may further retain the preloaded vehicle in the platform during the stunt. As discussed above, upon rotation of the platform, front portion 160a aligns with exit track 148a. The angle of the platform in the release position enables the vehicle to break away from the engagement features and travel down exit track 148a toward a subsequent relay segment.
In some embodiments, lock features may be provided to lock the arm in the first and second positions. Release structures may be further provided to enable a user to release the arm from the first and second positions. Further, although not shown in detail in regards to the falling and pivoting ramp element, the relay segments may be configured to fold into compact configurations to reduce packaging size and for ease of storage. Additional examples regarding relay segment folding are disclosed in more detail below.
Referring back to
Relay segment 114a is an example of a direct acting relay segment. An incoming vehicle may actuate a trigger 200a which may effect release of a preloaded vehicle from launcher 202a. The preloaded vehicle may exit relay segment 114a toward relay segment 116a along exit track 204a.
Direct acting relay segment 114a is similar to the relay segment illustrated in
Movement of the conical trigger 312 again causes release of stored potential energy to move a launching member in a manner similar to that described with respect to
It should be noted that exiting track sections of each of the relay segments, such as exiting track section 330, may be coupled to further track sections that may lead to additional relays segments. The relay segments may be interchanged such that the track is customized. Also, incoming track sections of the relay segments, such as incoming track section 310, may be adjustable (e.g., rotatable) relative to exiting track section 330 to enable an incoming vehicle to enter the relay segment from a plurality of angles and/or an exiting vehicle to exit the relay segment at a plurality of angles.
Referring back to
Specifically and as illustrated in
As illustrated, a preloaded vehicle may be positioned at the top of ramp 168a and held in launch position by stop 172a. Upon actuation of trigger 163a, stop 172a is released and the preloaded stunt vehicle launches down the ramp to direction changer 174a and then through booster 176a. Booster 176a may be any device to impart addition acceleration onto the toy vehicle. For example, booster 176a may be motorized wheels which further launch the vehicle into loops 170a. A switch 175a may be used to turn on the booster motor.
A directional key 178a directs the vehicle into alternative loops. For example, in the illustration, the direction key 178a has a path-defining section 180a which provides a rail edge defining the vehicle pathway and a contact switch 182a which upon contact with the vehicle as it travels along the defined pathway is flipped such that the key first defines a first pathway 184a, and upon contact with the vehicle defines a second pathway 186a. Each time the vehicle goes around the loop, the direction key is switched such that the vehicle alternatively travels the first pathway and then the second pathway.
In some embodiments, a timer may be used to time the vehicle's travel in loops 170a. For example, the vehicle may continue to travel in the loops for a predetermined period, such as a period of 5 seconds or any other preset time period. Following the predetermined period, the vehicle may be ejected from the loops. In other embodiments, the vehicle may perform a predetermined number of loops prior to ejection from the loops.
Ejection of the vehicle from loops 170a may occur after a predetermined event, a predetermined time, or in some embodiments, upon a user's activation. The vehicle may be ejected from exchanger stunt element 161a. For example, in some embodiments, completion of the predetermined event or time may actuate the directional indicator platform such that it raises up defining a vehicle ejection path.
As shown in
In such embodiments, the vehicle traveling the loops may be ejected from the loops such that the vehicle falls from the exchanger stunt element. For example, the directional indicator may block the traveling path and causes the vehicle to impinge against the tip of the directional indicator and be forced from the track. In some embodiments, additional switches or changes in the boosters may be provided to break the vehicle's travel path resulting in the vehicle being discharged from the loops.
Returning back to
As an example, a first stunt vehicle may preloaded into launch cavity 306a, wherein cavity 306a includes a launching structure such as a spring-loaded launch slider 307a which upon activation, such as through trigger 304a, slides forward. Motion is imparted to the preloaded stunt vehicle such that the stunt vehicle launches towards a target, such as bulls eye 308a. Although shown as a bulls eye, any design configuration is possible for the target.
Additionally, additional stunt vehicles may be preloaded into the release boxes 314a and 316a on side towers 310a and 312a respectively. Impact on the target, such as bulls eye 308a, may actuate a second stunt stage. In the second stunt stage, side towers 310a, 312a may be released such that the towers 310a, 312a fall outwards about hinges 318a and 320a as indicated by arrow 322a and 324a respectively. The release boxes are rotatively coupled to the towers such that upon actuation of the second stunt stage the release boxes rotate from a storage position to a release position. The storage position may be any suitable position where a vehicle does not fall from the release boxes. Thus, in some embodiments, the storage position may be such that the release boxes are parallel to the ground surface. In other embodiments, the release boxes may be angled such that the vehicles are retained in the storage boxes.
Actuation of the second stunt stage effect the release boxes 314a, 316a to rotate about pivot points 326a, 328a as indicated by arrows 330a, 332a. In the release position, the release boxes are angled such that the preloaded stunt vehicles fall from the boxes. Further, towers 310a and 312a fall outward such that preloaded vehicles and the towers crash into the ground surface.
A third stunt stage may be activated upon completion of the second stunt stage. For example, rotation of the towers from the base may actuate a switch to initiate a third stunt stage. In the third stunt stage, a release box 334a may be preloaded with another stunt vehicle. The release box may be in a first position facing the incoming track 302a and trigger 304a. The release box may be rotatively coupled to the top of the tower for rotation about pivot point 336a. Upon actuation of the third stunt stage, the release box may rotate from the first position to a release position where the preloaded vehicle is released down exit track 340a. As such, in the release position, the release box rotates 180 degrees such that it faces exit track 340a. It is noted that a structural detent mechanism may be used to hold the vehicle in the first position. This detent mechanism may include structure such as the top surface of the tower which when in the first position prevents the vehicle from releasing. In other embodiments, a moveable gate or structure may be provided which prevents movement of the vehicle when in the first position but allows the preloaded vehicle to release when in the release position.
As such the tower stunt element may be considered a multi-stage stunt element. In this multi-stage stunt element, completion of each stage actuates a further stage. Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, actuation of the multi-stage stunt element results in actuation of a first stage where a first preloaded vehicle impacts a target; completion of the target impact actuates a second stage where two preloaded vehicles are released and two towers fall outward toward a ground surface; completion of the tower fall actuates a third stage where a fourth preloaded vehicles is launched down exit track 340a. This vehicle is the outgoing vehicle of the tower stunt element and becomes the incoming vehicle for the subsequent stunt.
Again referring back to
An example explosion stunt element 350a is shown in more detail in
A vehicle traveling along the track may actuate trigger or lever 352a to affect a stunt. Although shown as an overhead trigger, the trigger may be in any suitable position which does not substantially impede the travel of the vehicle. In other embodiments, the trigger, and/or additional structure following actuation of the trigger, may stop the travel of the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, activation of the lever (via contact with a traveling toy vehicle on the track) may cause the top of the silo 360a to launch upward to simulate an explosion. Although in the illustrated embodiment the silo explodes in a single piece, in alternative embodiments, multiple portions of the explosion element may separate. Stunt element further comprises a manual trigger element 362a, manual element 362a is coupled to 352a such that movement of manual element 362a causes a catch to release a spring to launch a top portion 361a away from the stunt element 350 to simulate an explosion.
While
As an example track accessory, flip accessory 1050a enables the user to selectively raise the track 1002a to improve vehicle travel along the track. Such an accessory enables adjustment of the track such that the speed of the vehicle may be increased. Other accessories may be used to increase or decrease speed, adjust the angle or the track, or otherwise alter the vehicle pathway. As such, the flip accessory may be coupled to one or more track segments that may be mounted to a higher altitude position, such that gravity may “launch” the incoming vehicle.
Track 1002 may be attached to a pivot plate 1064. In some embodiments, track 1002, such as a track connection section, may be snapped onto pivot plate 1064. In other embodiments, the track may be slid onto pivot plate 1064 or otherwise coupled to plate 1064. Further, although described as a pivot plate in this example, it should be appreciated that the pivot plate may be any suitable structure to enable support and coupling of the track. Use of the flip accessory may enable the track to be positioned such that a steep angle is created for vehicle travel. Vehicles released from the top of the track will increase speed such that the vehicles have sufficient speed to actuate the various triggers of the relay segments. Further, increased vehicle speed enhances play value of the track set.
A vehicle released on track 1002a may travel to relay segment 1100a. Relay segment 1100a may be a stunt element, such as a spiral crash stunt element. Incoming track 1102a may enable the incoming vehicle to actuate a trigger initiating a spiral crash stunt event. Completion of the stunt may result in two vehicles being released from two exit tracks 1104a, 1106a. Two vehicles are now traveling on the track set. Alternative pathways may be defined for such vehicles or parallel pathways. As described in more detail below, in the illustrated embodiment, the example track set has been configured such that a first vehicle travels to relay segment 1200a and 1300a and the second vehicle travels to relay segment 1202a and 1302a.
Two preloaded vehicles may be positioned on carriers 1114a and 1116a. The carriers extend outward and are part of traveler 1108a. Upon actuation of trigger 1103a, traveler 1108a may be released from the start position such that the traveler rotates downwards as indicated by arrow 1117a about rod 1112a. Gravity pulls the traveler downwards with the rod including spiral coil structures which force the traveler to spin as it heads down the rod. A stop plate 1118a stops the traveler in a release position where both carrier 1114a and 1116a are aligned with exit tracks 1104a and 1106a, respectively. Preloaded vehicle may be released onto the exit tracks as outgoing vehicles from spiral crash stunt element 1110a.
It should be noted that each of the relay segments may be configured to fold to enable storage and/or reduce packing size. As such, many of the pieces of each relay segment are articulated to enable the pieces to fold and the structure to collapse inward. Further, in some embodiments, the relay segments are configured such that at least a top and bottom surface are substantially planar. The substantial planarity enables the relay segment to be more easily packaged or stacked for storage. The folding enables easy storage without the difficulties and frustrations that arise when such structures need to be disassembled for storage or packing.
As discussed above, spiral crash stunt element 1110a is configured as relay segment 1100a in
Referring back now to
Similar to the explosion stunt element described above, flip stunt element is an overlap element. As such, flip stunt element 1310a includes a track bed 1316a which is configured to receive a section of the track, such as a track connector section. The track may be slid into the track bed.
Carriage 1316a is configured to hold the preloaded vehicle prior to actuation of the flip stunt element. The vehicle may be supported by extensions and is configured to rotatively connected to the carriage such that activation of trigger 1308a causes rotation of the carriage such that the toy vehicle held therein is flipped or thrown from the track area.
Referring now to
In the illustrated track set 2000 an incoming vehicle travels along incoming track 2102 to actuate trigger 2104 of relay segment 2100. Relay segment 2100 may be a stunt element, such as a gravity-actuated zig-zag ramp stunt element. Thus, the incoming vehicle initiates the stunt, following which the pre-loaded stunt vehicle exits stunt 2100 at 2106 toward the subsequent stunt 2200.
Specifically,
The zig-zag ramp stunt element 2110 includes a support brace 2114 which maintains the start of the zig-zag track path in a relatively high vertical position. Gravity enables the car to move down the path. Although not required, in some embodiments, a spring-loaded launcher may be provided to further accelerate the vehicle along the zig-zag track path.
In some embodiments, various structures or designs may be used to indicate to a user the position for placing a pre-loaded vehicle. For example, different textures, paint or designs may be used to indicate that a vehicle should be loaded for activation in the stunt element.
In some embodiments, the zig-zag track may include angled sections which slow a vehicle down as it travels down the path. Rails 2116 may prevent the vehicle from careening off of the track. Further, cut-outs 2118 may be provided in the track to further disrupt the vehicles motion adding excitement to the stunt element. In some embodiments, the cut-outs and track shaped may provide enhanced excited my slowing the vehicle down such that additional anticipation is created.
It should be appreciated that other stunt elements may include speed control elements. These speed control elements include speed retarders and speed accelerators. Speed retarders, such as built-in delayed releases, controlled drops, speed, etc., may enhance play value by increasing the anticipation of an event. Further, speed accelerators, including ramp inclines, may, for example, increase play value by keeping vehicles moving through the track set.
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention and referring to
Referring now to
The vehicle basket 3111 may be hingedly connected to an arm 3114 as indicated at pivot point 3116. A vehicle may be preloaded in the basket. Activation of trigger 3104 results in the basket swinging downwards, as indicated by arrow 3117, such that the vehicle drops out of the basket and falls toward the ground.
In some embodiments, the preloaded stunt vehicle is configured to fall onto a target 3112. The target may be part of a platform or other structure. Upon impact with the target, a third vehicle may be released. As an example, a second pre-loaded vehicle may be positioned in cavity 3118. Cavity 3118 may include launching structure such as a spring loaded launch slider 3120 which upon activation slides forward, causing the second preloaded stunt vehicle to be accelerated toward exit 3106. This second preloaded vehicle becomes the outgoing vehicle of relay element 3100.
Referring now to
As illustrated, each relay segment 4110, 4112, and 4114 includes an incoming vehicle trigger, movable member or release mechanism which may directly or indirectly causes the launching of another outgoing vehicle or object, wherein the outgoing vehicle or object from one segment may become the incoming vehicle or object of a next segment that strikes the trigger, movable member or release mechanism of the next segment.
Although any suitable launcher may be used, in the illustrated embodiments, various automatically and manually-triggered release launcher elements are illustrated. In one implementation, a vehicle may be positioned in a launch position such that a launch element may slidingly engage the vehicle to propel the vehicle along the track. The launch element may be biased to a launch position, such as by springs, elastic bands or any other suitable biasing mechanism such that release of an activator releases its stored potential energy.
In one embodiment, the relay segments may include a trigger, such as a conically shaped trigger, angled trigger shapes that are not necessarily conical or a movable member. In some relay segments, actuation of a trigger by a first vehicle or object initiates a stunt and release of a second vehicle on the track set.
Referring now to at least
In addition and in one embodiment, relay 4110 also has a member 4123 rotatably mounted to the relay such that once trigger 4111 is manipulated member 4123 is rotated by a mechanism located within the relay such that the member 4123 rotates in the directions of arrows 4125. In one embodiment, member 4123 is configured to resemble a radar dish and movement thereof simulates scanning of an area to provide a general theme to the track set. Accordingly and in one non-limiting implementation of this embodiment, movement of trigger 4111 from the first position to the second position will ultimately cause tab 4115 to be retracted such that an object may travel down track 4117 however rotation of member 4123 may occur before, during or after retraction of tab 4115. If movement of member 4123 occurs before retraction of tab 4115 there will be a time delay from movement of the trigger to the second position and retraction of tab 4115.
Additionally, relay 4110 can also have a manual trigger mechanism 4127 that will retract tab 4115 and cause rotation of member 4123 without requiring movement of trigger 4111.
Referring now to at least
In one embodiment, object 4133 is configured to resemble a missile that is configured to be received on a launching member or rod 4135 wherein a spring located either within missile 4133 or on rod 4135 is compressed when the missile is received on rod 4135 and a latch 4137 releasbly secures the missile to the rod by having a feature 4139 that engages a portion of the missile. In this embodiment, movement of the trigger 4129 will release the missile and a compressed spring will launch the missile into the air. As illustrated, in
Accordingly and in one non-limiting implementation of this embodiment, movement of trigger 4129 from the first position to the second position will ultimately cause missile 4133 to be launched from the relay. In addition and similar to the other embodiments, relay 4112 can also have a manual trigger mechanism 4141 that will cause the missile to be launched from the relay.
Referring now to at least
As illustrated, the relay will have a launcher 4149 that is activated by release mechanism 4143 as it moves from either the first position to the second position from the second position towards the first position or another position. Launcher 4149 is similar to the launcher described above and in particular
Since release mechanism 4143 is capable of activating launcher from either the first position or the second position, various configurations are capable of being provided for example, with the release mechanism and the target in a somewhat vertical configuration with respect to the relay an object striking the surface of the release mechanism and moving it towards a second position or a somewhat horizontal configuration with respect to the relay the launcher will be released and vice versa.
As illustrated, relay 4114 further comprises a pair of support legs 4151 each being pivotally mounted to relay to provide stability to the relay as the release mechanism is located in a variety of positions as well as provide a stable base such that objects striking the release member will move the same with respect to the relay without knocking it over.
In another configuration and as illustrated in at least
Relay 4114 also has a tongue member 4155 for securement to another track segment 4157, which in one embodiment terminates with a jump via a platform 4159.
Referring now to
In addition and since relay 4112 and 4114 are spaced from each other, the combination of relays 4112 and 4114 may also be referred to a relay 4200 having a first actuator or relay 4112 configured to launch the object or missile 4133 into air and a second actuator or relay 4114 having the release mechanism 4143 (see at least
Referring now to
Referring now to
As illustrated, each relay segment 5110, 5112, and 5114 includes an incoming vehicle trigger, movable member or release mechanism which may directly or indirectly causes the launching of another outgoing vehicle or object, wherein the outgoing vehicle or object from one segment may become the incoming vehicle or object of a next segment that strikes the trigger, movable member or release mechanism of the next segment.
Although any suitable launcher may be used, in the illustrated embodiments, various automatically and manually-triggered release launcher elements are illustrated. In one implementation, a vehicle may be positioned in a launch position such that a launch element may slidingly engage the vehicle to propel the vehicle along the track. The launch element may be biased to a launch position, such as by springs, elastic bands or any other suitable biasing mechanism such that release of an activator releases its stored potential energy.
In one embodiment, the relay segments may include a trigger, such as a conically shaped trigger, angled trigger shapes that are not necessarily conical or a movable member. In some relay segments, actuation of a trigger by a first vehicle or object initiates a stunt and release of a second vehicle on the track set.
Relay 5110 has a trigger mechanism similar to the previous embodiments wherein movement of the trigger mechanism from a first position to a second position will cause the relay 5110 to perform a function and release an object or car towards another relay of the track set. Relay 5110 has a track segment pivotally secured to the relay proximate to the trigger such that an incoming vehicle may move the trigger. Once the trigger is moved to the second position an object or car is launched towards relay 5112. Additionally, relay 5110 can also have a manual trigger mechanism that launch the object.
Referring now to at least
In one embodiment, object 5076 is configured to resemble a missile. As illustrated, in
Accordingly and in one non-limiting implementation of this embodiment, movement of trigger 5060 from the first position to the second position will ultimately cause missile 5076 to be launched from the relay. In addition and similar to the other embodiments, relay 5112 can also have a manual trigger mechanism 5052 that will cause the missile to be launched from the relay.
Referring now to at least
In another configuration and as illustrated in at least
In addition and since relay 5112 and 5114 are spaced from each other, the combination of relays 5112 and 5114 may also be referred to a relay 5200 having a first actuator or relay 5112 configured to launch the object or missile 5076 into air and a second actuator or relay 5114 having the release mechanism or trigger for launching another object or vehicle.
As shown in the embodiment of
In some examples, some or all of the components of the toy-car-launching playset may be suitable designed, configured, and/or decorated to depict a common theme. For example, as shown in the FIGS., the vehicle launcher, the launching figure or relay 5112, and the target figure or relay 5114, including one or more components of each of these elements may be configured to resemble robots, humanoids, cyborgs or any other character.
As shown in the example presented in
The track segment 5062 may be pivotally connected to the base and the trigger may includes a generally conical contact element 5048. In some examples, the trigger 5060 may include one or more alternate, auxiliary, or manual triggers 5052, which may provide an alternate method of activating the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112.
The lower body may be rigidly mounted to the base. However, in some examples, the lower body may be mounted to the base such that the lower body may be rotated, translated, or otherwise moved relative to the base. The upper body may be rigidly mounted to the lower body, or the upper body may be mounted to the lower body such that the upper body may pivot or rotate relative to the lower body and/or the base. For example, as generally shown in the examples presented in
The projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 may be configured such that the upper body is caused to rotate relative to the lower body. Such rotation may be driven by a torsional spring or other driving force, such as an electric, or other type, motor. In some examples, the rotation of the upper body relative to the lower body may be retarded or otherwise slowed down relative to the rotation that would otherwise be provided by the spring or other driving force. For example, a wind-up motor may be provided as a governing gearbox, which may be disposed within the upper or lower body of the projectile-launching figure, and a spring, which may be external to the gearbox, may drive the rotation of the gearbox and the upper body. Examples of spring-operated or wind-up motors are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,057,557; 2,587,052; and 4,493,671, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto. In some examples, the spring and/or the gearbox may be manually energized by manually rotating the upper body relative to the lower body.
As shown in the FIGS., the arm 5068 may be rotatably attached to the upper body of the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112. The rotation of the arm may be driven by a torsional spring or other source of driving force, such as an electric, or other type, motor. The rotation of the arm may be un-retarded, or it may be retarded by a mechanism such as that described above with respect to the rotation of the upper body.
The projectile launcher may be disposed on the arm, and rotatable therewith. The projectile launcher may be configured to launch, propel or fire one or more darts or projectiles. The projectile launcher may be powered by an elastic element, such as a spring, or other source of force, such as a pressurized or compressed gas. In some examples, the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 may include one or more projectile storage locations or clips 5177 to store or otherwise retain a projectile 5076, as shown in
As will be more fully discussed below, the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 may be configured such that activation of the trigger causes the arm to rotate relative to the upper body, the upper body to rotate relative to the lower body, and the projectile launcher to fire the projectile. Although the listed actions may occur in the order in which they are listed, it should be understood that these actions may occur in any suitable order. Furthermore, it is within the scope of this disclosure for any two or more of the listed actions to occur with a suitable delay therebetween or to occur simultaneously.
In some examples, the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 may include a sighting device or scope 5078, which may be used to assist with aligning and/or aiming the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112, such as relative to the target figure or relay 5114. The alignment and/or aiming of the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 will be more fully discussed below.
As shown in the example of
In one embodiment, the scope is secured to the hand or arm that is not coupled to the projectile launcher however and when the upper body portion is in the second position with respect to the lower body portion, the scope can be used to determine where the projectile launcher will be aimed when the upper body portion rotates or twists back to the first position and the launcher or arm pivots or rotates from the second position back to the first position.
A nonexclusive illustrative example of a target figure or relay 5114, which may be suitable for use with the toy-car-launching set, is shown in
The launching element may be configured to apply a force to, and induce motion in, or propel an object such as a toy car, such as along a track section connected to the track connector. The function, operation, and construction of the launching element may generally correspond to that of the launching element described above.
In some examples, the target figure or relay 5114 may include one or more target elements 5092, which may be attached to the upper body. As shown in the FIGS., the target element may be configured to simulate a shield being held by the target figure or relay 5114.
In some examples, the upper body of the target figure or relay 5114 and/or the target element may be configured to provide and/or act as a trigger for launching element 5088. For example, the target figure or relay 5114 may be configured such that an impact to the upper body 5086 and/or to the target element 5092, such as by the projectile 5076, causes the launching element 5088 to launch or propel an object or toy car along a track section 5030 connected to the track connector 5090.
In some examples, the upper body may be separable from the lower body. For example and as shown in
In some examples, the target figure or relay 5114 and the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 may be configured to assist with a proper alignment therebetween. For example, as shown in
The keying features may be configured to provide a connection between the target figure or relay 5114 and the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112. The connection may be relatively loose, but may still provide enough of a positive engagement such that the target figure or relay 5114 and the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 may be retained together. A nonexclusive illustrative example of a jump-ramp support 5104 is shown in the FIGS. The jump ramp support may be configured to suitably elevate and/or angle one or more track sections such as to provide the vehicle jump ramp, as shown in FIGS.
The following paragraphs describe nonexclusive illustrative example of methods and/or modes of operation various embodiments and their various components, using the concepts and components discussed above. Although the steps of the following methods and/or operation modes may be performed in the order in which they are presented below, it is within the scope of this disclosure for the following steps, either alone or in various combinations, to be performed before and/or after any of the other following steps.
The vehicle launcher may propel a first toy car or object along a track section toward the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112. The projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 may launch or fire a projectile 5076 toward the target figure or relay 5114, which may subsequently explode into separate parts and launch a second toy car or object along another track segment.
In one embodiment and once operation or action of the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 is initiated, such as in response to a toy car contacting the trigger, the arm and projectile launcher may drop, rotate or pivot through an angle, which may be about ninety (90) degrees, from a first or raised position, as shown in
Setting up the playset may include rotating the upper body and/or the arm of the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 to the positions shown in
Although the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 and target figure or relay 5114 may be in contact, with the key engaged with the notch, as shown in the FIGS., the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 and target figure or relay 5114 may be spaced some distance apart, as shown in
The projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 and target figure or relay 5114 may be configured such that, when in contact, the projectile is likely to strike the target figure or relay 5114, such as on the upper body and/or the target element. When spaced apart, the user may need to exercise sufficient skill to align the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 with the target figure or relay 5114 such that the projectile is likely to strike the target figure or relay 5114, such as on the upper body and/or the target element. The projectile launcher may be configured to launch the projectile sufficiently far and/or with sufficient force such that the projectile may impact the target figure or relay 5114 with sufficient force when the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 and target figure or relay 5114 are spaced apart up to six (6) inches, twelve (12) inches, or even eighteen (18) or more inches.
Referring now to
During operation and when the upper body portion is rotated in a direction opposite to the biasing force of spring 5067 a distal end 5085 of a linkage member 5087 engages a recess of the upper body portion and retains it in the position in
In addition and the shoulder hub can be rotated from a first position with respect to the upper body portion (
During operation and when the linkage 5087 is moved such that the distal end 5085 no longer retains the upper body portion in the second position with respect to the lower body portion the spring 5067 rotates the upper body to the first position with respect to the lower body portion. However and in one embodiment, a spring biased gear box 5091 provides a braking force via a gear 5093 to slow down the movement of the upper body portion back to the first position.
During this movement and before the upper body portion reaches the first position from the second position a release lever 5095 releases the spring biased release mechanism 5089 and spring 5073 rotates the hub and the projectile launcher to the first position, which in one embodiment occurs before the upper body portion reaches its first position with respect to the lower body portion, which is due in part to the braking function of gear box 5091.
Finally and as the upper body portion reaches the first position from the second position with respect to the lower body portion the trigger member 5077 is moved against the biasing force of spring 5081 by a feature 5097 that engages a cam surface 5099 of the trigger member and the cam portion 5083 activates the projectile launcher and the projectile is launched. The aforementioned mechanism is merely provide as an example and exemplary embodiments contemplated equivalent mechanisms known to those skilled in the related arts.
For example and referring now to
In various embodiments and when upper body portion is rotated from the first position to the second position and the arm is rotated from the first position to the second position and the trigger of the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 is activated either manually or by an incoming object, the upper body rotates from the second position to the first position and the arm of the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 rotates from the second position to the first position and a projectile is launched from the projectile-launching figure or relay 5112 towards the target figure or relay 5114.
After the projectile strikes the target figure or relay 5114, such as on the upper body or the target element, the upper body of the target figure or relay 5114 is ejected upward and the launching element of the target figure or relay 5114 is activated and an object or car is launched from relay 5114.
As discussed above and in one embodiment, the relay 5112 has scope 5078 scope to the hand or arm that is not coupled to the projectile launcher. Accordingly and when the upper body portion is in the second position with respect to the lower body portion, the scope can be used to determine where the projectile launcher will be aimed when the upper body portion rotates or twists back to the first position and the launcher or arm pivots or rotates from the second position back to the first position.
In addition and in one embodiment a method of linking two relay segments with a projectile launcher is provided wherein an upper body portion of a relay is rotated from a first position with respect to a lower body portion against a biasing force of a spring to a second position and the upper body portion is retained in the second position. Prior to or after rotating the upper body portion an arm with a projectile launcher is rotated from a first position to a second position against a biasing force of another spring and retained in the second position. Thereafter, the upper body portion and the arm are rotated back to the first position by the biasing forces of the springs when a trigger of the relay is actuated. The upper body portion rotating at a slower rate then the arm and when both the arm and the upper body portion are in the first position a projectile is launched at another relay segment or target segment.
The target relay segment when impacted by the projectile is configured to launch one portion in the air and release a spring biased launcher at the same time and thus propel a car or object away from the target relay segment.
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention provide relay segments or actuators that are easy to assemble and operate stunts that can be rearranged and repositioned for numerous play configurations.
While the present invention has been described in terms of specific embodiments, it should be appreciated that the spirit and scope of the invention is not limited to those embodiments. The features, functions, elements and/or properties, and/or combination and combinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties of the track set may be claimed in this or a related application. All subject matter which comes within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims is to be embraced within the scope of such claims.
This claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/172,617, filed Apr. 24, 2009, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto. This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/717,645, filed Mar. 4, 2010, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/111,168 filed Apr. 28, 2008, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. Nos. 60/926,583 filed Apr. 27, 2007 and 60/966,029 filed Aug. 24, 2007, the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.
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| Child | 12766804 | US | |
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| Child | 12717645 | US |
