Toy vehicle launcher

Abstract

A toy vehicle launcher assembly for launching toy vehicles includes a housing and a launcher at least partially disposed within the housing. The launcher includes a loading mechanism, an actuator mechanism, and a pushing mechanism. The loading mechanism includes a first arm having a handle portion and a second arm having an engagement extension. The handle portion is configured to pivot along a first axis to move the engagement extension, and the first arm is longer than the second arm. The actuator mechanism includes a latch. The pushing mechanism includes a launching member having a first end for engaging with the latch and a second end opposite the first end for engaging the toy vehicle. Rotating the handle portion of the loading mechanism toward the pushing mechanism causes the engagement extension to laterally pull the launching member toward the actuator mechanism.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a toy vehicle launcher, and more particularly to a toy vehicle launcher that can be efficiently loaded and deployed. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional toy vehicle track systems consist of one or more track sections along which toy vehicles can travel. In some track systems, attachments such as launchers act on the toy vehicles to provide the force that propels them along the track. However, young children and other users may find it difficult to load or actuate the launchers to generate the force needed to propel the toy vehicles along the track or through various obstacles such as jumps and loops. Therefore, there is a need for a toy vehicle launcher that is easy to operate for users of all ages while still providing sufficient launching force to the toy vehicles. Furthermore, because children may tire of playing with the same accessories, there is a continuous need for accessories that provide new and engaging play features for toy vehicle track systems. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This paper presents a toy vehicle launcher. The toy vehicle launcher is a pre-loaded, top-down, spring-loaded launcher configured to impart a launching force to a toy vehicle. The toy vehicle launcher is configured to allow individuals, such as toddlers, to easily load and launch the toy vehicle.

[0004] According to an exemplary embodiment, a toy vehicle launcher assembly includes a housing and a launcher at least partially disposed within the housing. The launcher includes a loading mechanism, an actuator mechanism, and a pushing mechanism. The loading mechanism includes a first arm having a handle portion and a second arm having an engagement extension, the handle portion being configured to pivot along a first axis to move the engagement extension. The first arm is also longer than the second arm. The actuator mechanism includes a latch. The pushing mechanism includes a launching member having a first end for engaging with the latch and a second end opposite the first end for engaging a toy vehicle. Rotating the handle portion of the loading mechanism toward the pushing mechanism causes the engagement extension to laterally pull the launching member toward the actuator mechanism.

[0005] According to another example embodiment, the toy vehicle launcher includes a loading mechanism, a pushing mechanism, and an actuator mechanism. The pushing mechanism includes a launching member and a biasing member. The launching member has a housing with an inner lip, and the loading mechanism is configured to move the launching member only along a first axis in a first direction. The actuator mechanism includes an actuator button, a spring, and an engaging end with a beveled edge. When the beveled edge is positioned within the housing and engaged with the inner lip, the pushing mechanism is prepared to launch the toy vehicle along the first axis. When the actuator button is pressed while the beveled edge is within the housing and engaged with the inner lip, the spring is arranged to compress along a second axis to release the launching member and allow the biasing member to move the launching member along the first axis in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.

[0006] According to yet another exemplary embodiment, a toy vehicle launcher assembly includes a housing, a base, and a launcher. The housing is coupled to the base, and the launcher is at least partially disposed within the housing and on top of the base. The launcher includes a loading mechanism, an actuator mechanism, and a pushing mechanism. The loading mechanism includes a rotating member having a handle portion and an engaging extension. The actuator mechanism includes an engaging end having a protrusion disposed thereon. The pushing mechanism includes a launch member having a receptacle with an inner lip and a biasing member coupled to the launch member and the housing. The loading mechanism is configured to move the launch member in a first direction along the x-axis such that the engaging end of the actuator mechanism is inserted into the receptacle of the launch member and the protrusion engages the inner lip. The actuator mechanism is configured to disengage the protrusion from the inner lip when a force is applied to the actuator mechanism in a second direction along the z-axis, thereby allowing the biasing member to apply a launching force to the launch member in a third direction along the x-axis, opposite to the first direction. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1A-1H A toy vehicle launcher formed according to an embodiment of this application is shown. Figure 1A This is a first perspective view of a toy vehicle launcher. Figure 1B This is a second perspective view of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 1C This is a first side view of a toy vehicle launcher. Figure 1D This is a second side view of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 1E This is a front view of a toy vehicle launcher. Figure 1F This is a rear view of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 1G This is a top view of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 1H This is a bottom view of a toy vehicle launcher.

[0008] Figure 2A-2B An embodiment according to this application is shown. Figure 1A-1H A cross-sectional view of a toy vehicle launcher. Figure 2A This is a cross-sectional perspective view of a toy vehicle launcher. Figure 2B This is a cross-sectional side view of the toy vehicle launcher, including the spring.

[0009] Figures 3A-3D A toy vehicle launcher according to another embodiment of this application is shown, wherein certain components (e.g., cover, support, and housing) are removed to show the loading and launching mechanism in operation. Figure 3A A toy vehicle launcher in its default configuration is shown, with the launching component in its default position. Figure 3B This illustrates how the toy vehicle launcher moves from the default configuration to the loading configuration when the launching component moves from the default position to the loading position. Figure 3C The toy vehicle launcher is shown when the launching component is released from the loaded position to provide launching force. Figure 3D The toy vehicle launcher is shown returning to its default configuration after the launching component has returned to its default position.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for operating a toy vehicle launcher according to an embodiment of this application.

[0011] Throughout this disclosure, the same reference numerals are used to identify the same elements. Detailed Implementation

[0012] In summary, this paper presents a toy vehicle launcher. Users can manually activate the toy vehicle launcher. More generally, the toy vehicle launcher can be manually prepared by the user to launch toy vehicles, and the toy vehicles can be actually launched. Since children frequently play with toy vehicles, their ability to easily use the toy vehicle launcher allows them to operate it without adult assistance. Therefore, the play value of the toy vehicle launcher can be enhanced.

[0013] Figure 1A-1H and Figure 2A-2BAn example embodiment of the toy vehicle launcher proposed herein is illustrated. As shown, the entire launcher assembly 200 is in a "ready to launch" or "loaded" configuration and is in a state where the entire launcher assembly 200 is ready to launch a toy vehicle (not shown). In this exemplary embodiment, the entire launcher assembly 200 includes features that allow it to be included or incorporated into a toy vehicle track assembly. Specifically, the entire launcher assembly 200 includes a mechanical connector 290 that can connect the entire launcher assembly 200 to other track components, which may also include one or more connectors similar to or complementary to connector 290. In one embodiment, connector 290 is a puzzle or play device connector; however, it should be understood that the construction of connector 290 can vary widely. As shown, connector 290 is located at the front end 240 of the entire launcher assembly 200. It should be understood that although no connector is located at the rear end 242 of the entire launcher assembly 200, the entire launcher assembly 200 is not limited to including only one connector 290 to enable the entire launcher assembly 200 to be incorporated into a toy vehicle track assembly. The entire launcher assembly 200 is merely one example of the toy vehicle launcher proposed herein, and in other embodiments, the toy vehicle launcher proposed herein need not include features that allow it to be included or incorporated into a track device.

[0014] The entire launcher assembly 200 includes a base 210 defining and / or supporting a cavity 214, an actuator mechanism 292, a loading mechanism 294, a propulsion mechanism 260, and a launcher housing 222, among other features. More specifically, the base 210 is coupled to and / or integrally formed with a first wall 212 and a second wall 220, which substantially cooperate to define the cavity 214 (also referred to as a track path) through which a toy vehicle can pass after being propelled by the propulsion mechanism 260 or otherwise launched. The first wall 212 and the second wall 220 cooperate to ensure that the toy vehicle launched by the propulsion mechanism 260 remains substantially oriented along the x-axis 101 on the base 210.

[0015] As will be discussed in more detail below, the loading mechanism 294 prepares the actuation mechanism 260 to launch the toy vehicle and engages the actuator mechanism 292. The launcher housing 222 is coupled to the base portion 210 such that portions of the actuator mechanism 292, the loading mechanism 294, and the actuation mechanism 260 are at least partially disposed within the housing 222 and substantially on top of the base portion 210. The launcher housing 222 is arranged to protect portions of the actuator mechanism 292, the loading mechanism 294, and the actuation mechanism 260, and also to prevent the user from touching the internal components. In the illustrated embodiment, the launcher housing 222 is stylized to resemble a building; however, it should be understood that the configuration of the launcher housing 222 is not limited to this style and can vary widely.

[0016] The entire launcher assembly 200 generally relates to a top-down lever launcher arranged to propel a front-loaded toy vehicle. The configuration of the loading mechanism 294, the actuation mechanism 260, and the actuator mechanism 292 allows loading the entire launcher assembly 200, or applying force and / or leveraging the entire launcher assembly 200, to be easily accomplished by an individual such as a toddler. In other words, the entire launcher assembly 200 can be prepared for launching the toy vehicle and actually launched by an individual with the strength and dexterity of a toddler. In one embodiment, the loading mechanism 294, the actuation mechanism 260, and the actuator mechanism effectively form the launcher.

[0017] like Figure 2A and Figure 2B As can be seen, the actuator mechanism 292, or the actuator portion of the entire transmitter assembly 200, includes an actuator button 292a, an engaging end 292b having a protruding or beveled edge 2920 (also referred to herein as a “buckle”), an elastic element such as a spring 292c, and a rod 292d, the elastic element 292c being coiled around or otherwise positioned around the rod 292d. The actuator button 292a is arranged to be pressed, for example, moved in a downward direction “A” relative to the z-axis 102, to compress or be in a compressed state of the elastic element 292c. In other words, when the actuator button 292a is pressed, the actuator button 292a applies a force to the elastic element 292c to compress the elastic element 292c. When the actuator button 292a is no longer pressed, the elastic element 292c decompresses and returns to its original state.

[0018] The loading mechanism 294 includes a rotating component 295 having a loading arm 295a with a handle portion 295b and an engaging arm 295c with an engaging extension 295d. The loading arm 295a and handle portion 295b are arranged for use, for example, by a young child, to allow the rotating component 295 to rotate about a pin 280 or fulcrum, with the axis of rotation aligned with the y-axis 103. The pin 280 is coupled to a housing 222, such that the rotating component 295, the torsion spring 282, and more generally the loading mechanism 294 are supported by the housing 222. When the rotating component 295 rotates in a clockwise direction “B”, the engaging extension 295d of the engaging arm 295c causes the actuating mechanism 260 to move along the x-axis 101 in a direction “C” toward the actuator mechanism 292 or rear end 242, wherein once the actuating mechanism 260 is fully engaged with the actuator mechanism 292, the actuating mechanism 260 is ultimately forceped or loaded to launch the toy vehicle.

[0019] The rotating component 295 effectively functions as a lever, with its fulcrum or pivot point at pin 280. The loading arm 295a and the engaging arm 295c have different lengths, wherein the handle portion 295b is a distance "D" from pin 280, and the end of the engaging extension 295d is a distance "E" from pin 280. More specifically, the distance "D" of the loading arm 295a is preferably longer than the distance "E" of the engaging arm 295c to provide a lever action that allows a user (e.g., a young child) to easily load the launcher assembly 200. In some embodiments, the distance "D" is greater than twice the distance "E". Furthermore, the loading arm 295a can be inclined, bent, or folded, as... Figure 2B As shown. This configuration of the loading arm 295a utilizes gravity to assist the rotation of the rotating component 295 and further reduces the input force or effort required to load the launcher assembly 200 when the user pushes substantially downward (i.e., in direction "A") on the handle portion 295b.

[0020] When the input force on the loading mechanism 294 is removed (e.g., when a toddler removes his hand from the handle portion 294a), the torsion spring 282 coupled to the rotating member 295 is biased to cause the rotating member 295 to rotate counterclockwise (i.e., opposite to direction "B") and return the loading mechanism 294 to its original position. Furthermore, when the rotating member 295 returns to its original position, the loading mechanism 294 does not further move the actuation mechanism 260 (i.e., the actuation mechanism 260 remains engaged with the actuator mechanism 292 in the loading configuration). By returning to its original position, the engagement extension 295d is removed from the path of the actuation mechanism 260 to launch the toy vehicle along axis 101 in direction "F".

[0021] The actuating mechanism 260 includes an elongated launching member 260b having a contact end 260a or a contact pad, one or more stop members 260c, and a biasing member, such as a spring 262 or a rubber band, connecting the launching member 260b to the launcher housing 222. Typically, the launching member 260b is configured to slide laterally along the base 210 when moving between a default position and a loaded position. The contact end 260a includes a surface configured to contact the toy vehicle (more specifically, the rear end of the toy vehicle) to actuate or launch the toy vehicle. The contact end 260a may be configured to include an array of protrusions, such as flexible tapered protrusions or bristles made of a rubbery material, like... Figure 2B As shown. The flexible protrusion array on the contact end 260a allows the actuation mechanism 260 to adapt to and effectively propel a toy vehicle whose rear end may have different shapes or be angled. Compared to a simple flat surface, the array of flexible protrusions conforms to the contour of the rear end of the toy vehicle when the actuation mechanism launches it. This allows the actuation mechanism to apply launch force to a larger portion of the rear end and also helps prevent the toy vehicle from flying off the track path. It should also be understood that the contact end 260a is not limited to a protrusion array and can be other materials, shapes, or designs, such as a triangular prism array.

[0022] The launching member 260b includes a receiving space 2602 arranged to receive the engaging end 292b of the actuator mechanism 292 when the launching member 260b engages with or otherwise mats with the actuator mechanism 292 in a loaded position (i.e., ready to launch a vehicle). In one embodiment, a latch or bevel edge 2920 is substantially held within the receiving space 2602 by a raised lip 2604 or protrusion of the launching member 260b. Pressing the actuator button 292a of the actuator mechanism 292 causes the latch or bevel edge 2920 to disengage from the lip 2604 and allows a spring 262 to pull the launching member 260b back to the front end 240 (i.e., away from the actuator mechanism 292).

[0023] More specifically, when an input force is applied to the handle portion 295b to rotate the rotating member 295 clockwise in a "B" direction, the engagement extension 295d pulls the launching member 260b toward the rear end 242 and stretches the spring 262. When the input force is continuously applied to the handle portion 294a, the launching member 260b eventually presses against the engagement end 292b, and the beveled edge 2920 is substantially inserted or forced into and held within the receiving space 2602 via the lip 2604. It should be understood that when the launching member 260b is pressed against the engagement end 292b, the resilient element 292c can be compressed to allow the beveled edge 2920 to pass substantially below the lip 2604 as it enters the receiving space 2602. Once the beveled edge 2920 is positioned within the receiving space 2602, the resilient element 292c is generally no longer compressed; that is, when the resilient element 292c is no longer significantly compressed, the resilient element 292c returns to its default position.

[0024] When the tilting edge 2920 is positioned within the receiving space 2602 and engages with the lip 2604, the entire launcher assembly 200 is effectively forceed and prepared to launch a toy vehicle (not shown) positioned in the cavity 214 (i.e., "ready to launch" or loaded configuration). In one embodiment, when the tilting edge 2920 is effectively captured within the receiving space 2602 and held by the lip 2604, pressing or applying force to the actuator button 292a compresses the resilient element 292c and disengages the tilting edge 2920 from the lip 2604. Once the tilting edge 2920 is disengaged from the lip 2604, the tension spring 262 is able to pull the launching member 260b back to the front end 240 along the x-axis 101 as it returns to its original shape, thereby applying a propulsive or launching force to the actuating mechanism 260. It should be understood that the magnitude of the launching force can vary widely based on factors including, but not limited to, the size, material and / or stiffness of the spring 262, and / or the size or weight of the actuating mechanism 260.

[0025] The launching member 260b is further restricted to movement within the housing 222 by one or more stop members 260c attached to or formed as part of the launching member 206b. As an example, when the launching member 260b moves or translates away from the actuator mechanism 292 in the direction “F” along the x-axis 101, the stop member 260c will eventually contact the stop pad 222a of the housing 222, which essentially serves to stop further movement of the actuating mechanism 260. That is, when the stop member 260c is effectively pressed against the stop pad 222a, the contact end 260a is prevented from traveling along the x-axis 101 past the front end 240. The stop pad 222a and / or the stop member 260c may comprise or be made of an elastic material, such as rubber, which can absorb or reduce noise generated when the stop member 260c impacts the stop pad 222a. Furthermore, when the launching member 260b moves at high speed within the launcher housing 222 to effectively propel the toy vehicle, the stop member 260c and the stop pad 222a help protect the launcher housing 222 and the loading mechanism 294 from repeated impacts from the pushing mechanism 260.

[0026] Next reference Figures 3A-3D The movement of components in the toy vehicle launcher will be described according to embodiments. For the purpose of illustrating how the actuation mechanism 360, actuator mechanism 392, and loading mechanism 394 operate or otherwise move, the launcher 300 is depicted and shown without some components of the overall launcher assembly. The launcher 300 is shown without components of the integral launcher assembly including the base, walls, springs, and housing 322; however, it should be understood that the integral launcher assembly typically includes components as described above. Figure 1A These components are described in the integral transmitter assembly 200 of -H and 2A-B.

[0027] Figure 3A The transmitter 300 is shown in its default configuration, with the launching member 360b in its default position at time t1. The handle portion 394a of the loading mechanism 394 can be manually moved with a downward force, causing the rotating component 394c of the loading mechanism 394 to rotate counterclockwise in a direction “G” about a pin 380 or axial component connected to the housing 322 and generally aligned relative to the y-axis 302. As the rotating component 394c rotates about the pin 380, the engaging extension 394b of the loading mechanism 394 contacts the launching member 360b of the actuating mechanism 360, causing the launching member 360b to move along the x-axis 301 in a direction “H” toward the engaging end 392b of the actuator mechanism 392. At time t1, the engaging extension 394b contacts the housing 3602 of the launching member 360b at point 370.

[0028] Figure 3BThe image shows the firing member 306b of the transmitter 300 being moved to the loading position at time t2. The movement of the loading mechanism 394 causes the engaging extension 394b to move the firing member 360b in the direction "H" until the firing member 360b engages with the engaging end 392b of the actuator mechanism 392. More specifically, the inclined edge 3920 of the engaging end 392b (see...) Figure 3A The engagement extension 394b engages with and is held by the lip or hook-shaped portion within the housing 3602 of the firing member 360b. It is noteworthy that when the inclined edge 3920 engages with the lip within the housing 3602 of the firing member 360b, the engagement extension 394b contacts the housing 3602 of the firing member 360b at point 370'. When the rotating member 394c rotates about the pin 380 to move the firing member 360b, the engagement extension 394b slides downward along the z-axis 303 in the direction "I" while simultaneously moving the firing member 360b toward the actuator mechanism 392 along the x-axis 101 in the direction "H".

[0029] When the inclined edge 3920 of the engagement end 392b contacts the lip within the housing 3602 of the launching member 360b, the elastic element 392c of the actuator mechanism 392 can be compressed along the z-axis 303 in the direction "I", and subsequently decompressed so that the inclined edge 3920 can effectively lock or restrict the launching member 360b. In one embodiment, the elastic element 392c is a spring. Compression of the elastic element 392c can be triggered when the inclined edge 3920 is forced against the launching member 360b and into the housing 3602 by a force applied by the engagement extension 394b along the x-axis 301. At time t2, the elastic element 392c is in a state, for example, decompressed, such that the engagement end 392b with the inclined edge 3920 disposed thereon is locked to the launching member 360b.

[0030] Figure 3C The launching member 360b of the launcher 300 is shown released from the loading position at time t3. Pressing the actuator button 392a of the actuator mechanism 392 activates the push mechanism 360 and launches the toy vehicle. As shown, the force pushing down the handle portion 394a of the loading mechanism 394 has been removed. Subsequently, a torsion spring (not shown) causes the rotating member 394c to rotate clockwise in the direction "J", so that the engaging extension 394b is no longer adjacent to the launching member 360b. However, it should also be understood that in other embodiments, the launching member 360b may remain in contact with the engaging extension 394b and may subsequently move in the direction "K" as the launching member 360b pushes the engaging extension 394b to return to its default position, causing the rotating member 394c to rotate clockwise in the direction "J".

[0031] When actuator button 392a is pressed, elastic element 392c is compressed. Pressing actuator button 392a applies a force to actuator button 392a approximately along z-axis 303. The compression of elastic element 392c is also relative to z-axis 303. Compression of elastic element 392c allows the inclined edge 3920 of engagement end 292b to disengage from launch member 360b. When the inclined edge disengages, a spring or other biasing member (not shown) connected to launch member 360b and housing 322 causes launch member 360b to move away from actuator mechanism 392 in direction "K" along x-axis 301, and actuator mechanism 392 applies or imparts a launch force to launch member 360b. When the toy vehicle is positioned against contact end 360a, the toy vehicle can then be propelled by push mechanism 360.

[0032] Figure 3D The image shows the launching member 360b of the launcher 300, which has returned to its default position at time t4. The pushing mechanism 360 is fully launched, and the stopping member of the pushing mechanism 360 (similar to...) Figure 3D The stop member 360c shown in the figure, but located on the opposite side of the launching member 360b, contacts the stop pad 322a of the housing 322 (see [reference]). Figure 3C And prevents further movement of the launching member 360b relative to the x-axis 301. The stop pad 322a is arranged to stop the movement of the actuating mechanism 360 as the launching member 360b travels along the x-axis 301 away from the actuator mechanism 392. Typically, the stop member can be substantially forced against the stop pad 322a to restrain the movement of the actuating mechanism 360, such that at least a portion of the launching member 360b remains within the housing 322. In one embodiment, when the stop member contacts the stop pad 322a, the engagement extension 394b returns to contact the receiving seat 3602 of the launching member 360b.

[0033] refer to Figure 4 A method of operating a toy vehicle launcher (e.g., the integral launcher assembly 200 as described above) will be discussed according to embodiments. The toy vehicle launcher is generally a top-down launcher configured for front loading and relatively easy to apply force and / or leverage for loading purposes. The method 1505 of operating the toy vehicle launcher begins at step 1509, where an individual (e.g., a young child) prepares to launch a toy vehicle using the toy vehicle launcher by rotating a handle of the launcher's loading mechanism in a first direction, such that the engaging extension of the loading mechanism applies a force to the launching member of the actuation mechanism. That is, the handle is used to move the launching member of the actuation mechanism toward the engaging end of the actuator mechanism while also stretching a spring coupled to the launching member.

[0034] In step 1513, the actuating member of the actuating mechanism engages with the engaging end of the actuating mechanism. A separate spring included in the actuator mechanism is placed under compression, for example, in a compressed state, to enable the actuating member to engage the engaging end, and is in a substantially uncompressed state once the actuating member and the engaging end are engaged or connected, for example, substantially locked together. In one embodiment, a protrusion such as the inclined edge of the engaging end may engage with an inner lip, such as a hook or overhang, associated with the receiving space of the actuating member. When the actuating member of the actuating mechanism engages with the engaging end, the handle is in a force-applied position.

[0035] In step 1517, once the launching member engages with the engagement end and the handle of the loading mechanism is released, the torsion spring connected to the loading mechanism causes the handle to subsequently rotate in a second direction or in a direction opposite to the first direction. That is, the handle returns to the unloaded position.

[0036] After the handle returns to the non-forced position, the toy vehicle can be positioned in the cavity or channel of the launcher in step 1521. In other words, the toy vehicle can be placed in the cavity in preparation for launch. The toy vehicle can be positioned in the cavity, in contact with the contact pad of the launch member or in the path of the contact pad of the launch member, such that when a propulsive force is applied to the launch member, the contact pad can contact the toy vehicle and launch the toy vehicle out of the cavity.

[0037] In step 1525, the actuator mechanism is activated, for example by activating an actuator button on the actuator mechanism, to effectively release the launching member of the actuation mechanism and cause the launching member to launch the toy vehicle. Activating the actuator button may include, but is not limited to, pressing, pushing, depressing, engaging, triggering, applying pressure, and / or otherwise applying physical force to the actuator button. In one embodiment, activating the actuator button may cause spring compression in the actuator mechanism, releasing the launching member of the actuation mechanism from its engaged end. As the spring connected to the launching member pulls the launching member back to its original position, a launching force is generated. The method of operating the toy vehicle launcher is completed when the actuation mechanism launches the toy vehicle, and can be repeated to launch additional toy vehicles.

[0038] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a toy vehicle launcher assembly comprising: a housing; and a launcher at least partially disposed within the housing, the launcher comprising: a loading mechanism including a handle portion and an extension, the handle portion configured to move the extension; an actuator mechanism including an actuator button, a spring, and a first end having a first protrusion disposed thereon; and a pushing mechanism having a launching member having a accommodating space defined therein, the launching member further having a second protrusion associated with the accommodating space, wherein the extension is positioned to move the launching member along a first axis when the launcher is ready to launch the toy vehicle, such that the first protrusion is held within the accommodating space by the second protrusion.

[0039] In other respects, the technology described herein relates to a toy vehicle launcher comprising: a loading mechanism; a pushing mechanism including a launching member comprising a housing and a first protrusion, wherein the loading mechanism is configured to move the launching member along a first axis in a first direction; and an actuator mechanism including an actuator button, a spring, and an engaging end having a second protrusion, wherein the pushing mechanism is prepared to launch the toy vehicle along the first axis when the second protrusion is disposed within the housing and in contact with the first protrusion, and wherein when the actuator button is pressed while the second protrusion is disposed within the housing and in contact with the first protrusion, the spring is arranged to compress along a second axis to release the launching member and apply a launching force to the launching member to move the launching member along the first axis in a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction.

[0040] In other respects, the technology described herein relates to a toy vehicle launcher assembly comprising: a housing; a base, wherein the housing is coupled to the base; and a launcher, the launcher being at least partially disposed within the housing and on top of the base, the launcher comprising: a loading mechanism; an actuator mechanism including an engagement end having a first protrusion disposed thereon; and a pushing mechanism comprising a launch member having a receptacle and a second protrusion, wherein the loading mechanism is configured to capture the first protrusion in the receptacle and constrain it by the second protrusion by moving the launch member in a first direction along the x-axis, and wherein the actuator mechanism is configured to release the first protrusion from the receptacle by applying a force in a second direction along the z-axis, and to apply a launch force in a third direction along the x-axis opposite to the first direction.

[0041] While only a few embodiments have been described in this disclosure, it should be understood that this disclosure may be implemented in many other specific forms without departing from the spirit or scope thereof. For example, the configuration of the engagement end of the actuator mechanism and the launching member of the actuation mechanism may vary. In other words, the geometry associated with the engagement end and the launching member is not limited to the geometry shown in the various figures.

[0042] In another example, the toy vehicle launcher may have two actuation mechanisms, each loaded by a single loading mechanism. The two actuation mechanisms are positioned parallel to each other, allowing two toy vehicles to be launched simultaneously. Rotating the handle of the loading mechanism engages the launching component of each actuation mechanism with an actuator mechanism. Activating the actuator mechanism releases both launching components simultaneously to launch the toy vehicles.

[0043] It should be understood that toy vehicle launchers, including the toy vehicle launcher or parts thereof described herein, can be made of any suitable material or combination of materials, such as plastics, foamed plastics, wood, cardboard, pressed paper, metals, flexible natural or synthetic materials, including but not limited to cotton, elastomers, polyesters, plastics, rubber, their derivatives, and combinations thereof. Suitable plastics may include high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), etc. Suitable foamed plastics may include expanded or extruded polystyrene, expanded or extruded polypropylene, EVA foam, their derivatives, and combinations thereof.

[0044] It should also be understood that terms such as “left,” “right,” “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “side,” “height,” “length,” “width,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” “internal,” and “external” that may be used herein describe reference points or reference portions only and do not limit the invention to any particular orientation or construction. Furthermore, the term “exemplary” is used herein to describe examples or illustrations. Any embodiment described herein as exemplary should not be construed as a preferred or advantageous embodiment, but rather as an example or illustration of a possible embodiment of the invention.

[0045] Although the disclosed invention has been shown and described herein as embodied in one or more specific examples, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown, as various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention and within the scope of its equivalents. Furthermore, various features from one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment. Therefore, it is appropriate that the appended claims be interpreted broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of this disclosure set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A toy vehicle launcher assembly, comprising: case; and A transmitter, at least partially disposed within the housing, comprising: A loading mechanism comprising a first arm having a handle portion and a second arm having an engagement extension, the handle portion being configured to pivot along a first axis to move the engagement extension, wherein the length of the first arm is greater than the length of the second arm. Actuator mechanism, the actuator mechanism including a latch; and A pushing mechanism, the pushing mechanism including a launching member having a first end for engaging with the latch and a second end opposite the first end for engaging a toy vehicle, wherein rotating the handle portion of the loading mechanism toward the pushing mechanism causes the engaging extension to laterally pull the launching member toward the actuator mechanism.

2. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 1, wherein the actuation mechanism further includes a biasing member coupled to the launch member and the housing, the biasing member being configured to bias the launch member away from the actuator mechanism to a default position.

3. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 2, wherein the first end of the launch member includes a raised lip configured to engage with a protrusion on the latch when the launch member is moved to the loading position.

4. The toy vehicle launcher assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The actuator mechanism includes an actuator button for operating the latch; The latch includes a spring arranged to compress so that the protrusion can engage with the raised lip of the launching member; The spring is further arranged to decompress when the protrusion engages with the raised lip to hold the launching member in the loaded position; and When the launching component is in the loaded position, pressing the actuator button causes the latch to release the launching component and allow it to return to the default position.

5. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 1, wherein the second end of the launching member further includes a contact pad comprising an array of tapered protrusions.

6. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 1, wherein the loading mechanism further comprises a torsion spring configured to rotatably bias the handle portion away from the push mechanism and bias the engagement extension away from the actuator mechanism.

7. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 1, wherein the actuation mechanism further comprises a second launch member, and the handle portion of the loading mechanism is rotated toward the actuation mechanism to cause the two launch members to move laterally toward the actuator mechanism.

8. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 1, further comprising a base, wherein the housing is coupled to the base, the base being arranged to be coupled to at least one track member.

9. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 3, wherein the housing includes a stop pad positioned to contact and stop the movement of the launch member after the launch member has moved from the loading position to the default position.

10. A toy vehicle launcher, comprising: Loading mechanism; A pushing mechanism, the pushing mechanism including a launching member and a biasing member, the launching member including a receptacle having an inner lip, wherein the loading mechanism is configured to move the launching member along a first axis in a first direction; and An actuator mechanism includes an actuator button, a spring, and an engagement end with a beveled edge, wherein when the beveled edge is disposed within the housing and engages with the inner lip, the actuation mechanism prepares to launch a toy vehicle along a first axis, and wherein, while the beveled edge is disposed within the housing and engages with the inner lip, when the actuator button is pressed, the spring is arranged to compress along a second axis to release the launching member and allow the biasing member to move the launching member along the first axis in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

11. The toy vehicle launcher of claim 10, wherein the loading mechanism includes a rotating component and an engaging extension coupled to the rotating component, the rotating component being arranged to rotate about a third axis in a third direction, such that the engaging extension laterally moves the launching member along the first axis in the first direction.

12. The toy vehicle launcher of claim 11, wherein the loading mechanism further includes a handle coupled to the rotating component.

13. The toy vehicle launcher of claim 12, wherein the loading mechanism further comprises a torsion spring configured to rotate the engagement extension in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction without moving the launching member.

14. The toy vehicle launcher of claim 10, wherein the launching member further comprises a contact pad comprising an array of protrusions configured to contact the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle is launched by the actuation mechanism.

15. A toy vehicle launcher assembly, comprising: case; Base, wherein the housing is coupled to the base; and A transmitter, at least partially disposed within the housing and on top of the base, the transmitter comprising: A loading mechanism, the loading mechanism including a rotating component having a handle portion and an engaging extension; An actuator mechanism, the actuator mechanism including a mating end having a protrusion disposed thereon; and A propulsion mechanism includes a launching member having a housing with an inner lip and a biasing member coupled to the launching member and a housing, wherein a loading mechanism is configured to move the launching member in a first direction along the x-axis such that an engaging end of an actuator mechanism is inserted into the housing of the launching member and a protrusion engages the inner lip, and wherein the actuator mechanism is configured to disengage the protrusion from the inner lip when a force is applied to the actuator mechanism in a second direction along the z-axis, thereby allowing the biasing member to apply a launching force to the launching member in a third direction along the x-axis, the third direction being opposite to the first direction.

16. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 15, wherein the engagement extension is curved and slides along one side of the housing as the loading mechanism moves the launch member in the first direction.

17. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 15, wherein the housing includes a stop pad for stopping movement of the launch member in the third direction when the launch member contacts the stop pad.

18. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 15, wherein the housing includes an axial pin, and wherein the rotating member rotates about the axial pin to cause the engaging extension to push the receiving seat of the launching member.

19. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 18, wherein rotating the handle portion of the loading mechanism toward the launch member causes the engaging extension to move the launch member laterally in the first direction.

20. The toy vehicle launcher assembly of claim 15, wherein the base is configured to be coupled to a track element.

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