Toy car set

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a toy set. The toy set includes a base section, a track section configured to receive a toy car, and a biasing member coupled to the base section and coupled to the track section. The biasing member is configured to bias the base section and the track section away from each other, and the biasing member is configured to bend to enable relative movement between the base section and the track section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application generally relates to toy sets, and more particularly, to toy sets having the characteristics of toy cars. Background Art

[0002] Toy sets provide entertainment for different users, such as children. For example, a toy set includes a track and a toy car. A user can move the toy car along the track to interact with the toy set. Such interactions can depict the realistic appearance and / or feel of the movement of real-world vehicles. Toy sets can also include various features that provide effects to entertain users in an immersive manner. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A toy set is presented herein. According to one example embodiment, the toy set includes a base section, a track section configured to receive a toy car, and a biasing member coupled to the base section and coupled to the track section. The biasing member is configured to bias the base section and the track section away from each other, and the biasing member is configured to bend to enable the base section and the track section to move relative to each other.

[0004] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toy set comprising: a base section; a track section configured to receive a toy car; and a biasing member coupled to the base section and coupled to the track section, wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the base section and the track section away from each other, and the biasing member is configured to bend to enable the base section and the track section to move relative to each other.

[0005] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the toy set includes a rod configured to extend through the biasing member, wherein the rod is configured to couple the base section and the track section to each other.

[0006] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the toy set includes a mounting member coupled to the rod and coupled to the biasing member, wherein the track section engages the mounting member, and the biasing member is configured to bias the mounting member and the base section away from each other to bias the base section and the track section away from each other.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the mounting member defines a first aperture, the base section defines a second aperture, the rod is configured to extend into the first aperture and the second aperture, the mounting member is configured to move relative to the rod via the first aperture, and the base section is configured to move relative to the rod via the second aperture.

[0008] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the mounting member includes a first protrusion that extends into and around the first aperture, the base section includes a second protrusion that extends into and around the second aperture, the rod includes a first lip and a second lip, and the biasing member is configured to bias the mounting member and the base section away from each other such that the first lip of the rod abuts the first protrusion and the second lip of the rod abuts the second protrusion.

[0009] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the biasing member includes a helical spring that surrounds the first aperture and the second aperture such that the rod extends through the helical spring.

[0010] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the track section includes a channel configured to receive the toy car.

[0011] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the toy set includes a starter arm configured to move between a loaded configuration and a rest configuration, and the starter arm includes an extension configured to extend into the channel and engage the toy car positioned in the channel in the rest configuration of the arm, the extension having a section that curves towards the toy car in the loaded configuration of the starter arm.

[0012] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the extension is positioned outside the channel in the loaded configuration of the arm.

[0013] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the arm includes a shaft configured to rotate relative to the track section to transition the arm between the loaded configuration and the rest configuration, and the extension extends from the shaft such that rotation of the shaft relative to the track section drives rotation of the extension relative to the track section.

[0014] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the arm includes a handle extending from the shaft, the handle being configured to rotate towards the track section to transition the arm towards the loaded configuration, and the handle being configured to rotate away from the track section to transition the arm towards the rest configuration.

[0015] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the extension is offset from the toy car in the loaded configuration, and the toy set includes an arm biasing member configured to push the arm upward and forward towards the rest configuration and push the extension towards the toy car positioned in the channel.

[0016] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toy set, which includes: a base section; a track section; and a biasing joint, which includes: a biasing member configured to configure the base section and the track section to move away from each other; and a rod extending through the biasing member and configured to couple the base section and the track section to each other.

[0017] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the toy set includes an additional rod outside the biasing member, wherein the additional rod is configured to extend through a pore of the track section, and the track section is configured to move along the additional rod via the pore of the track section to move relative to the base section.

[0018] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the additional rod includes a lip configured to abut the track section to prevent the additional rod from moving out of the pore of the track section.

[0019] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the toy set includes an additional component coupled to the track section, wherein the additional component is movable relative to the track section, and the movement of the track section relative to the base section causes the track section to engage the additional component and causes the additional component to move relative to the track section.

[0020] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the base section defines a receiving seat, and the biasing member extends into the receiving seat.

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toy set, which includes: a first section; a second section; and a biasing joint, which includes: a mounting member engaged with the second section; a biasing member coupled to the mounting member and configured to bias the first section and the mounting member away from each other to bias the first section and the second section away from each other; and a rod coupled to the first section and coupled to the mounting member.

[0022] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the first section includes a first pore, the second section includes a second pore, the rod extends through the first pore and through the second pore, and the rod includes a lip configured to abut the first section and the mounting member respectively to prevent the rod from moving out of the first pore and the second pore to couple the first section and the mounting member to each other.

[0023] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the second section defines a receiving seat configured to receive the mounting member to engage the second section with the mounting member.

[0024] After referring to the following drawings and the detailed description, other systems, methods, features, and advantages will be apparent or become obvious to those skilled in the art. All such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are included within this specification and within the scope of the claimed subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] The toy set presented herein can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. Unless the dimensions of the elements in the drawings are specifically stated and described herein, it should be understood that the elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and the emphasis is on illustrating the principles of the toy car booster. In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the different views.

[0026] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a toy set according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application;

[0027] Figure 2 A perspective view showing a part of a toy set according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application;

[0028] Figure 3 Showing Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the toy set;

[0029] Figure 4 Showing Figure 2 A perspective view of the first part of the offset joint of the toy set;

[0030] Figure 5 Showing Figure 2 A perspective view of the second part of the offset joint of the toy set;

[0031] Figure 6 A perspective view showing a toy set according to another exemplary embodiment of the present application;

[0032] Figure 7 Showing Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the toy set;

[0033] Figure 8 Showing Figure 6 A side perspective view of the toy set;

[0034] Figure 9 Showing Figure 6 A side perspective view of the base section of the toy set;

[0035] Figure 10 Showing Figure 6 A top perspective view of the base section of the toy set;

[0036] Figure 11 Showing Figure 6 A bottom view of the track section of the toy set;

[0037] Figure 12 Shows Figure 6 Bottom perspective view of a base section of a toy set and a part of a support member;

[0038] Figure 13 Shows Figure 6 Top perspective view of a track section of a toy set and a support member;

[0039] Figure 14 Shows Figure 6 Top perspective view of a toy set;

[0040] Figure 15 Perspective view of a toy set having an arm and a toy car according to another exemplary embodiment of the present application;

[0041] Figure 16 Shows Figure 15 Perspective view of a toy set, wherein the arm is in a stationary configuration and engaged with the toy car;

[0042] Figure 17 Shows Figure 15 Perspective view of a toy set, wherein the arm transitions between a stationary configuration and a loaded configuration;

[0043] Figure 18 Shows Figure 15 Perspective view of a toy set, wherein the arm is in a loaded configuration; and

[0044] Figure 19 Shows Figure 15 Perspective view of a toy set, wherein the toy car moves along the track section due to engagement with the arm. Detailed Description

[0045] Generally speaking, a toy set is presented herein. The toy set includes a track section and a base section. A biasing joint engages the track section and the base section, and the biasing joint enables relative movement of the track section and the base section relative to each other. For example, the biasing joint includes a biasing member that urges the track section and the base section to move away from each other. The biasing joint also includes a rod configured to couple the track section and the base section to each other. The biasing member can be bent to enable relative movement of the track section and the base section relative to each other, and the rod maintains the connection of the track section and the base section to each other during this relative movement. The movement of the track section relative to the base section is a unique feature that can entertain users.

[0046] Figure 1Schematic diagram showing an embodiment of the toy set 100. The toy set 100 includes a base section 102 and a track section 104. The toy set 100 also includes a toy car 106. A user can move the toy car 106 relative to the base section 102 and / or relative to the track section 104. For example, the user can engage the toy car 106 with the track section 104 and move along the track section. The user can additionally or alternatively engage the toy car 106 with the base section 102 and move along the base section. This movement of the toy car 106 can, for example, simulate the travel of the toy car 106 along a path.

[0047] The toy set 100 includes a biasing joint 108 that is configured to engage with the base section 102 and with the track section 104. The biasing joint 108 enables the base section 102 and the track section 104 to move relative to each other. For example, the biasing joint 108 biases the base section 102 and the track section 104 away from each other so that a portion of the base section 102 is offset from a portion of the track section 104, and vice versa. The biasing joint 108 is also configured to bend to enable the base section 102 and the track section 104 to move relative to each other. For example, the base section 102 and the track section 104 are configured to roll, pitch, and / or yaw relative to each other about the biasing joint 108. However, the base section 102 can engage frictionally with the support surface of the track section 104, and thus, most of the movement can be imparted to the track section 104.

[0048] As an example, the movement of the toy car 106 along the track section 104 can apply a force to the track section 104 that causes the track section 104 to move relative to the base section 102 via the biasing joint 108. As another example, the movement of the toy car 106 along the base section 102 can apply a force to the base section 102 that causes the base section 102 to move relative to the track section 104 via the biasing joint 108. This relative movement of the base section 102 and the track section 104 relative to each other can enhance the user's entertainment experience. For example, the relative movement of the base section 102 and the track section 104 relative to each other provides a unique feel and tactile feedback to the user interacting with the toy car 106 (e.g., replicating the feeling of a monster truck moving haphazardly over rough terrain and / or obstacles).

[0049] In some embodiments, the toy set 100 further includes one or more supports 110 (e.g., secondary supports) that maintain the connection between the track section 104 and the base section 102. For example, the support 110 is movably coupled to the base section 102 and coupled to the track section 104. Thus, each of the base section 102 and the track section 104 can move relative to the support 110 and thus relative to each other while remaining coupled to the support 110 and thus to each other. Additionally or alternatively, the support 110 can prevent certain movement of the base section 102 and the track section 104 relative to each other. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the support 110 prevents the base section 102 and the track section 104 from moving beyond a threshold degree of movement. Thus, the support 110 provides additional assistance in maintaining the positioning of a portion of the base section 102 and a portion of the track section 104 within a threshold distance of each other, which can help maintain the structural integrity of the toy set 100.

[0050] The toy set 100 further includes an arm 112 that is coupled to the track section 104 in the illustrated embodiment. The arm 112 is configured to drive the movement of the toy car 106 (e.g., along the track section 104). For example, the arm 112 is configured to transition between a loaded configuration and a rest configuration, e.g., via a force manually applied by a user. The transition of the arm 112 from the loaded configuration toward the rest configuration can cause the arm 112 to contact the toy car 106, thereby driving the movement of the toy car 106. In this way, the arm 112 can be used by the user to propel the toy car 106 and further entertain the user. The arm 112 can also be specifically tuned for larger toy cars (e.g., scale models of monster trucks), as detailed herein, for example, by including extensions that are specially designed to engage the chassis portions of these vehicles and / or are configured to rotate in a manner that facilitates propulsion without causing lifting.

[0051] Figure 2 A perspective view of a toy set 150 including a base section 152 and a track section 154 is shown. The track section 154 is configured to be coupled to a biasing joint ( Figure 2 not shown), and the track section 154 is movable relative to the base section 152 about the biasing joint. For example, the engagement of the toy car 156 with the track section 154 can apply a force to the track section 154 to drive the movement of the track section 154 relative to the base section 152, e.g., to roll, pitch, and / or yaw the track section 154 about the base section 152 via the biasing joint. The biasing joint can maintain the connection between the track section 154 and the base section 152 during this movement. Thus, the biasing joint enables relative movement of the base section 152 and the track section 154 relative to each other to entertain the user while maintaining the assembly of the toy set 150.

[0052] Figure 3 Shows a cross-sectional view of the toy set 150, in which the base section 152 and the track section 154 are coupled to each other via a biasing joint 200. In the depicted embodiment, the biasing joint 200 includes a biasing member 202 that extends into a receiving seat 204 defined by the base section 152. Additionally, the biasing joint 200 includes a mounting member 206 that is coupled to the biasing member 202, for example, via an interference fit, an adhesive, and / or a fastener. The biasing member 202 exerts a force that biases the base section 152 and the mounting member 206 away from each other. However, a manually applied force can overcome the force exerted by the biasing member 202 to bend and deform (e.g., elastically deform) the biasing member 202, thereby driving the movement of the mounting member 206 relative to the biasing member 202 and relative to the base section 152 into which the biasing member 202 extends. In the absence of a manually applied force, the force exerted by the biasing member 202 moves the mounting member 206 to a default orientation relative to the biasing member 202 and / or relative to the base section 152, such as an orientation in which the mounting member 206 extends generally parallel to the surface 207 of the base section 152.

[0053] The track section 154 is coupled (e.g., fixedly coupled) to the mounting member 206, for example, via an interference fit, an adhesive, and / or a fastener. Thus, the movement of the track section 154 (e.g., achieved by a user) drives the movement of the mounting member 206, and the movement of the mounting member 206 (e.g., achieved by the biasing member 202) drives the movement of the track section 154. For this reason, the force exerted by the biasing member 202 that biases the base section 152 and the mounting member 206 away from each other also biases the base section 152 and the track section 154 away from each other.

[0054] The offset joint 200 further includes a rod 208 (e.g., a main support), which is configured to couple the mount 206 and the base section 152 to each other, thereby coupling the track section 154 attached to the mount 206 and the base section 152 to each other. In the depicted embodiment, the mount 206 defines a first aperture 210 and includes a first protrusion 212 that extends into and around the first aperture 210. The rod 208 includes a first lip 214 at a first end 216, and the first lip 214 is configured to abut the first protrusion 212 to prevent the rod 208 from moving out of the first aperture 210, thereby retaining the rod 208 within the first aperture 210 to couple the rod 208 to the mount 206. Additionally, the base section 152 defines a second aperture 218 and includes a second protrusion 220 that extends into and around the second aperture 218. The rod 208 includes a second lip 222 at a second end 224, and the second lip 222 is configured to abut the second protrusion 220 to prevent the rod 208 from moving out of the second aperture 218, thereby retaining the rod 208 within the second aperture 218 to couple the rod 208 to the base section 152. Retaining the rod 208 within the first aperture 210 and within the second aperture 218 secures the mount 206 and the base section 152 to each other, thereby securing the base section 152 to the biasing member 202 and to the track section 154 coupled to the mount 206. However, in other embodiments, the rod 208 may be secured within the apertures 210, 218 in any desired manner.

[0055] Additionally, the rod 208 is movable relative to the base section 152 and / or relative to the track section 154. For example, the rod 208 may slide through the second aperture 218 to move relative to the base section 152 so as to move the second lip 222 away from the second protrusion 220, and the rod 208 may slide through the first aperture 210 to move relative to the mount 206 and relative to the track section 154 coupled to the mount 206 so as to move the first lip 214 away from the first protrusion 212. Movement of the rod 208 relative to the base section 152 and relative to the track section 154 enables the track section 154 and the base section 152 to move relative to each other. For example, a force applied to the track section 154 may cause the mount 206 to translate along the rod 208 and / or may cause the rod 208 to translate along the base section 152 and compress a portion of the biasing member 202 to drive a portion of the track section 154 toward a portion of the base section 152. In the absence of a force applied to the track section 154, the force applied by the biasing member 202 drives the mount 206 and the base section 152 away from each other and along the rod 208 such that the lips 214, 222 of the rod 208 remain proximate to and / or abut the protrusions 212, 220, respectively.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing member 202 is a helical spring surrounding the first aperture 210 and the second aperture 218. Accordingly, the rod 208 extends through the biasing member 202. However, in additional or alternative embodiments, the biasing member 202 may comprise different components, such as a gas spring that biases the base section 152 and the mount 206 away from each other. Additionally, the rod 208 may extend along the side of the biasing member 202 rather than through the biasing member. Additionally, in some embodiments, a single component may act as both the biasing member 202 and the rod 208.

[0057] Figure 4 A perspective view of the biasing joint 200 of the toy set 150 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the shaft 250 of the rod 208 extends between the second protrusions 220 and extends into the second aperture 218 to position the second lip 222 offset from the second protrusions 220. Additionally, the space formed between the second protrusions 220 is larger than the size of the shaft 250. For this reason, the shaft 250 is able to move within the space between the second protrusions 220. As an example, the shaft 250 may rotate and / or translate toward one of the second protrusions 220 and away from the other of the second protrusions 220. This movement of the shaft 250 between the second protrusions 220 and within the second aperture 218 enables corresponding movement of the mount 206, as well as the biasing member 202 and the track section 154 coupled to the mount 206, relative to the base section 152.

[0058] Figure 5 A perspective view of the biasing joint 200 of the toy set 150 is shown, where the shaft 250 of the rod 208 extends between the first protrusions 212 and extends into the first aperture 210 to position the first lip 214 offset from the first protrusions 212. For viewing purposes, the track section 154 is not shown in Figure 5 The space formed between the first protrusions 212 is larger than the size of the shaft 250 to enable the shaft 250 to move within the space between the first protrusions 212, such as toward one of the first protrusions 212 and away from the other of the first protrusions 212. This movement of the shaft 250 between the first protrusions 212 and within the first aperture 210 enables additional corresponding movement of the mount 206, as well as the biasing member 202 and the track section 154 coupled to the mount 206, relative to the base section 152.

[0059] Figure 6 A perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the toy set 300 is shown. The toy set 300 includes a base section 302 and a track section 304 coupled to each other via a biasing joint 350 (see Figure 7)。The track section 304 can move relative to the base section 302 about the biasing joint 350, for example, due to a force applied by a user via the toy car 306. This relative movement can include roll, pitch, and / or yaw of the track section 304 relative to the base section 302. The biasing joint 350 can maintain the connection between the base section 302 and the track section 304 to each other. In addition, the toy set 300 includes additional supports 308 (e.g., auxiliary supports) that fix the base section 302 and the track section 304 to each other.

[0060] The toy set 300 can include other features, accessories, or components attached to the track section 304, and the movement of the track section 304 relative to the base section 302 can cause the actuation of these features. As an example, the tower 310 is coupled to the track section 304, and the tower 310 includes a plurality of tower portions 312 that are coupled to each other and movable relative to each other (e.g., via a spring-loaded telescoping mechanism). The movement of the track section 304 relative to the base section 302 can trigger the movement of the tower portions 312 to actuate the tower 310. As another example, the assembly 314 is coupled to the track section 304. The assembly biasing member 316 can be configured to urge the movement (e.g., rotation) of the assembly 314 relative to the track section 304. The assembly 314 can engage a latch to fix the position of the assembly 314 relative to the track section 304. The movement of the track section 304 relative to the base section 302 can cause the track section 304 to contact the latch and disengage the latch from the assembly 314, so that the assembly biasing member 316 moves the assembly 314 relative to the track section 304, thereby actuating the assembly 314.

[0061] Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the toy set 300 is shown, in which the base section 302 and the track section 304 are coupled to each other via the biasing joint 350. For example, the biasing joint 350 can be similar to the biasing joint 200 and can have a biasing member (not shown), a mount 352 coupled to the track section 304, and a rod 354 (e.g., a main support) coupled to the mount 352 and to the base section 302. The biasing member applies a force that biases the base section 302 and the mount 352 and the track section 304 coupled to the mount 352 away from each other. Additionally, the base section 302 and / or the mount 352 can move relative to the rod 354 to effect the movement of the base section 302 and the track section 304 relative to each other (e.g., by overcoming the force applied by the biasing member).

[0062] The base section 302 and the track section 304 can be additionally coupled to each other via the support members 308. For example, the support members 308 are positioned outside and separated from the offset joint 350. Each support member 308 includes a rod that extends through the base section 302 and the track section 304. The base section 302 and / or the track section 304 can move along the support member 308 to effect movement of the base section 302 and the track section 304 relative to each other. However, the extension of the support member 308 through the base section 302 and the track section 304 is maintained. For this reason, the support member 308 maintains the coupling between the base section 302 and the track section 304. For example, the support member 308 being retained within the base section 302 and the track section 304 can prevent a portion of the base section 302 and a portion of the track section 304 from moving away from each other beyond a threshold distance to couple the base section 302 and the track section 304 to each other.

[0063] Figure 8 A side view of the toy set 300 showing a further view of the provision of the support members 308 is shown. Each support member 308 extends through a respective first aperture 400 of the track section 304 and through a respective second aperture 402 of the base section 302. The support member 308 is configured to move through the respective first aperture 400 to move relative to the track section 304. Additionally, the support member 308 is configured to move through the respective second aperture 402 to move relative to the base section 302. For example, a first portion of the base section 302 and a first portion of the track section 304 move relative to the first support member 308 away from each other, while a second portion of the base section 302 and a second portion of the track section 304 move relative to the second support member 308 towards each other. This movement of the base section 302 and the track section 304 relative to each other can cause the base section 302 and the track section 304 to rotate relative to each other.

[0064] Figure 9 A side view of the base section 302 of the toy set 300 is shown. The track section 304 is not shown for viewing the support members 308 attached to the base section 302. Each support member 308 includes a first lip 450 at a first end 452. The first end 452 is configured to be inserted into the first aperture 400 of the track section 304, and the first lip 450 retains the support member 308 within the first aperture 400. For example, the first lip 450 is configured to abut the track section 304 to prevent the support member 308 from moving out of the first aperture 400. Thus, the first lip 450 helps to couple the support member 308 to the track section 304.

[0065] Additionally, each support member 308 includes a flange 454. The flange 454 can prevent a certain movement of the support member 308 relative to the base section 302. As discussed herein, the support member 308 is configured to extend into a second aperture 402 of the base section 302. The flange 454 prevents the support member 308 from extending beyond a threshold distance into the second aperture 402. Specifically, the flange 454 is configured to abut a surface 456 of the base section 302 that surrounds the second aperture 402 to prevent the support member 308 from further moving into the second aperture 402. Preventing the support member 308 from moving into the second aperture 402 can maintain the desired positioning of the support member 308 relative to the base section 302 (e.g., to keep the support member 308 against the base section 302) to facilitate the coupling of the track section 304 to the support member 308. This can also maintain the desired orientation of the track section 304 coupled to the support member 308 relative to the base section 302, such as to hold the support member 308 within the second aperture 402, etc.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, a biasing joint 350 is coupled to the base section 302. Specifically, the base section 302 defines a receiving seat, a biasing member of the biasing joint 350 extends into the receiving seat, and a rod 354 of the biasing joint 350 extends into an aperture within the receiving seat to secure the biasing joint 350 within the receiving seat. A mounting member 352 of the biasing joint 350 is outside the receiving seat and is configured to engage the track section 304. The biasing member is configured to bend to effect movement of the mounting member 352 and the track section 304 relative to the base section 302. However, in other embodiments, the biasing joint 350 can be disposed on the base section 302, the track section 304, or any combination thereof, and its parts can be arranged accordingly.

[0067] Figure 10 A top view of the base section 302 of the toy set 300 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the flange 454 of the support member 308 abuts the surface 456 of the base section 302. Additionally, the rod 354 of the biasing joint 350 abuts the mounting member 352. For example, the rod 354 extends through an aperture 500 defined by the mounting member 352 and extends between protrusions 502 of the mounting member 352 that extend into and around the aperture 500. The biasing member of the biasing joint 350 biases the mounting member 352 away from the base section 302 to cause the rod 354 (e.g., a lip of the rod 354) to abut the mounting member 352. This positioning of the support member 308 against the base section 302 and the mounting member 352 against the rod 354 can facilitate the coupling of the track section 304 to the base section 302.

[0068] Figure 11Bottom view of the track section 304 of the toy set 300. The track section 304 can be easily coupled to the base section 302, for example via a manually applied force. For example, a support 308 coupled to the base section 302 can be inserted into a respective first aperture 400 of the track section 304 to couple the support 308 to the track section 304. Thus, the support 308 couples the base section 302 and the track section 304 to each other. Additionally, the track section 304 defines a receiving seat 550, and the receiving seat 550 is configured to receive a mount 352 of a biasing joint 350 coupled to the base section 302. Thus, in the assembled configuration of the toy set 300, the support 308 extends through the respective first aperture 400, and the mount 352 is positioned within the receiving seat 550.

[0069] Figure 12 Bottom view of the base section 302 of the toy set 300, where one of the supports 308 extends into a second aperture 402 of the base section 302. The base section 302 includes a first protrusion 600 that extends into and around the second aperture 402, and the support 308 includes a shaft 602 that extends between the first protrusions 600 and into the second aperture 402. In the illustrated embodiment, the support 308 also includes a first lip 604 that abuts the first protrusion 600. The abutment of the first lip 604 with the first protrusion 600 prevents the support 308 from moving out of the second aperture 402, thereby retaining the support 308 within the second aperture 402. The space formed between the first protrusions 600 is larger than the size of the shaft 602 to enable movement of the support 308 within the space between the first protrusions 600. For example, the shaft 602 can rotate and / or translate towards one of the first protrusions 600 and away from the other of the first protrusions 600 to effect a corresponding movement of the base section 302 relative to the track section 304 coupled to the support 308.

[0070] Figure 13A top view of the track section 304 of the toy set 300 is shown, in which one of the supports 308 extends into the first aperture 400 of the track section 304. The track section 304 includes a second protrusion 650 that extends into and around the first aperture 400, and a shaft 602 extends between the second protrusions 650 and into the first aperture 400. The support 308 includes a second lip 652 that is configured to abut the second protrusion 650 to prevent the support 308 from moving out of the first aperture 400, thereby retaining the support 308 within the first aperture 400. The space formed between the second protrusions 650 is larger than the size of the shaft 602 to enable movement of the support 308 within the space between the second protrusions 650, thereby enabling corresponding movement of the track section 304 relative to the base section 302 coupled to the support 308.

[0071] Figure 14 A top perspective view of an embodiment of the toy set 300 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the tower portions 312 of the tower 310 are pressed into each other (e.g., via a telescoping mechanism). Pressing the tower portions 312 into each other can cause compression of the biasing member of the toy set 300. For example, pressing the tower portion 312 toward the track section 304 can cause one of the tower portions 312 to extend through the track section 304 and engage the mounting member 352 to drive the mounting member 352 toward the base section 302, thereby compressing the biasing member that extends between the mounting member 352 and the base section 302. Due to the movement of the mounting member 352 toward the base section 302, the track section 304 engaged with the mounting member 352 can also move toward the base section 302. Additionally, the compression configuration of the biasing member can limit the movement of the mounting member 352 relative to the base section 302, thereby limiting the relative movement between the base section 302 and the track section 304 via the biasing joint 350. That is, when the tower portion 312 is pressed, the position of the track section 304 relative to the base section 302 can be generally maintained.

[0072] As discussed herein, movement of the track section 304 relative to the base section 302 can actuate the various components of the toy set 300. As an example, the first component 660 (e.g., the first lever actuation component) includes a first actuatable plate 662 that is coupled to the base section 302 and configured to move relative to the base section. For example, the first actuatable plate 662 is configured to rotate relative to the base section 302. A lever 664 of the first component 660 is rotatably coupled to the base section 302, and a first end of the lever 664 extends between the base section 302 and the track section 304 while a second end of the lever 664 extends between the base section 302 and the first actuatable plate 662. Thus, movement of the track section 304 toward the base section 302 can cause the track section 304 to engage the first end of the lever 664 and move the first end of the lever 664 toward the base section 302. Movement of the first end of the lever 664 toward the base section 302 causes the lever 664 to rotate relative to the base section 302 and moves the second end of the lever 664 into engagement with the first actuatable plate 662. The second end of the lever 664 can then drive movement of the first actuatable plate 662 relative to the base section 302 (e.g., to raise a portion of the first actuatable plate 662), thereby actuating the first component 660. For example, the component 660 can be similar to a bracket and capable of securing a toy car. Then, actuation of the lever 664 can cause the bracket to tip over or drop the toy car.

[0073] Additionally, the second component 668 (e.g., the second lever actuation component) includes a second actuatable plate 670 that is coupled to the base section 302 and configured to rotate relative to the base section. The second actuatable plate 670 includes a lever portion 672 that is configured to extend between the base section 302 and the track section 304. Movement of the track section 304 toward the base section 302 causes the track section 304 to engage the lever portion 672, thereby moving the lever portion 672 toward the base section 302. Movement of the lever portion 672 toward the base section 302 causes the second actuatable plate 670 to rotate relative to the base section 302, e.g., to lower a portion of the second actuatable plate 670.

[0074] The toy set 300 further includes a third component 674 (e.g., a first strut) coupled to the base section 302 and configured to rotate relative to the base section, and a fourth component 676 (e.g., a second strut) coupled to the base section 302 and configured to rotate relative to the base section. The third component 674 includes a first surface 678 configured to engage the track section 304. For example, gravity urges the rotation of the third component 674 relative to the base section 302 to move the first surface 678 into abutment with the track section 304. Thus, movement of the track section 304 relative to the base section 302 can move the third component 674 relative to the base section 302 to actuate the third component 674. For example, movement of the track section 304 toward the base section 302 can cause the third component 674 to rotate relative to the base section 302 and toward the track section 304 so that the first surface 678 can remain engaged with the track section 304. The fourth component 676 can similarly include a second surface 680 configured to remain engaged with the track section 304 (e.g., via gravity). Thus, movement of the track section 304 relative to the base section 302 can move the fourth component 676 relative to the base section 302 to actuate the fourth component 676.

[0075] In some embodiments, the components 660, 668, 674, 676 can be actuated independently. In other words, the track section 304 can be moved relative to the base section 302 to move a subset of the components 660, 668, 674, 676 rather than the remainder of the components 660, 668, 674, 676. For example, the track section 304 includes a plurality of actuatable points. Moving the track section 304 at one of the actuatable points can actuate an adjacent component rather than other components positioned away from the actuatable point. For example, movement of the track section 304 toward the base section 302 at a first actuatable point 682 can cause actuation of the first component 660, movement of the track section 304 toward the base section 302 at a second actuatable point 684 can cause actuation of the second component 668, movement of the track section 304 toward the base section 302 at a third actuatable point 686 can cause actuation of the third component 674, and movement of the track section 304 toward the base section 302 at a fourth actuatable point 688 can cause actuation of the fourth component 676. Thus, each of the components 660, 668, 674, 676 can be selectively actuated to entertain the user.

[0076] Figure 15A perspective view showing an embodiment of a toy set 700, which may have any of the features discussed herein regarding sections that are movable relative to each other via a biasing joint. Additionally or alternatively, the toy set 700 includes a track section 702 that is configured to receive a toy car 704. For example, the track section 702 defines a channel 706 that is configured to receive the toy car 704. The toy set 700 further includes a starter arm 708 that can be used to drive the movement of the toy car 704 along the track section 702 (i.e., apply an acceleration / propulsion force to the toy car 704). In the depicted embodiment, the starter arm 708 is coupled to the track section 702 and is movable relative to the track section 702 such that the starter arm 708 can transition between a loaded configuration and a rest configuration. The starter arm 708 is configured to contact the toy car 704 during movement relative to the track section 702 to cause the toy car 704 to move along the track section 702.

[0077] The starter arm 708 includes an extension 710 that is configured to contact the toy car 704 to move the toy car 704. The extension 710 includes a first section 712 and a second section 714 that extends crosswise relative to the first section 712. Additionally, the track section 702 includes a groove 716 formed within the channel 706. The groove 716 receives the profile of the extension 710 in the rest configuration of the starter arm 708. For example, the first section 712 may extend generally along the track section 702 (e.g., along the channel 706) in the rest configuration of the starter arm 708, and the second section 714 may extend toward the track section 702 (e.g., through the channel 706) and into the groove 716 in the rest configuration of the starter arm 708. As discussed herein, the orientation of the first section 712 and the second section 714 relative to each other may contribute to providing sufficient acceleration / propulsion force via the extension 710 to propel the toy car 704 along the track section 702.

[0078] Figure 16A perspective view of a toy set 700 is shown, where a toy car 704 is positioned within a channel 706. In the illustrated embodiment, the launcher arm 708 is in a rest configuration (e.g., a fully rest configuration). In the rest configuration, a second segment 714 of an extension 710 extends into the channel 706, and a first segment 712 of the extension 710 extends along the channel 706. The positioning of the toy car 704 within the channel 706 can engage the toy car 704 with the first segment 712 of the extension 710 when the launcher arm 708 is in the rest configuration. For example, wheels 752 of the toy car 704 straddle the extension 710, and a chassis 754 abuts against the first segment 712 of the extension 710. The positioning of the second segment 714 within a groove 716 of the track segment 702 enables the extension 710 to be positioned within the channel 706 in a manner that accommodates the placement of the toy car 704 within the channel 706 and against the first segment 712 of the extension 710.

[0079] Figure 17 A perspective view of the toy set 700 is shown, where the launcher arm 708 transitions from a rest configuration to a loaded configuration (e.g., the launcher arm 708 is in a partially rest configuration or a partially loaded configuration). For example, the launcher arm 708 includes a shaft 800 coupled to the track segment 702. For example, the shaft 800 can be positioned within a groove 802 defined by the track segment 702 and is configured to rotate about an axis 804 to transition the launcher arm 708 from the rest configuration to the loaded configuration. The first segment 712 of the extension 710 extends from the shaft 800. Thus, rotation of the shaft 800 relative to the track segment 702 drives rotation of the extension 710 relative to the track segment 702.

[0080] In addition, because the extension 710 contacts the toy car 704 in the rest configuration of the launcher arm 708, rotation of the extension 710 relative to the track segment 702 can apply some force to the toy car 704, for example, in a first direction 806 (e.g., a forward direction) along the channel 706 and away from the launcher arm 708. Movement of the toy car 704 along the channel 706 in the first direction 806 can provide sufficient clearance to enable the extension 710 to move out of the channel 706 to effect the transition of the launcher arm 708 to the loaded configuration. Additionally, the cross-orientation between the first segment 712 and the second segment 714 of the extension 710 can facilitate movement of the launcher arm 708 to the loaded configuration. For example, the cross-orientation between the first segment 712 and the second segment 714 of the extension 710 can enable the first segment 712 and the second segment 714 to slide along the toy car 704 to move the toy car 704 in the first direction 806 during movement of the extension 710 out of the channel 706. In other words, the orientation between the first segment 712 and the second segment 714 helps the extension 710 move relative to the toy car 704 while the toy car 704 is in contact with the extension 710.

[0081] In some embodiments, the launcher arm 708 can be transitioned to the loaded configuration via a manually applied force. As an example, the launcher arm 708 includes a handle 808 extending from a shaft 800. A user can utilize (e.g., grip) the handle 808 to drive the rotation of the shaft 800 and the extension 710 relative to the track section 702. For example, the user can rotate the handle 808 in a first rotational direction 810 about an axis 804 toward the track section 702 to transition the launcher arm 708 to the loaded configuration. Generally, the first rotational direction 810 can be considered to be backward and downward. Thus, the downward movement of the handle 808 moves the extension 710 away from the toy car 704 positioned in the channel 706. Thus, after being rotated to the loaded configuration, the biasing of the launcher arm 708 can cause the launcher arm 708 to rotate in a forward and upward direction toward the toy car 704 positioned in the channel 706, as detailed below.

[0082] Figure 18 A perspective view of the toy set 700 is shown, where the launcher arm 708 is in the loaded configuration (e.g., fully loaded configuration). In the loaded configuration, the extension 710 is outside the channel 706 and offset (e.g., disengaged) from the toy car 704. Thus, the toy car 704 (e.g., the wheels 752) can abut a wall 850 (e.g., the rear wall) of the track section 702 that extends adjacent to the channel 706. For example, gravity can cause the toy car 704 to move toward the launcher arm 708 in a second direction 854 (e.g., the backward direction) opposite the first direction 806. However, the wall 850 blocks contact between the toy car 704 and the extension 710. In the loaded configuration of the launcher arm 708, the second section 714 of the extension 710 extends toward the toy car 704 that abuts the wall 852. For example, the first section 712 of the extension 710 extends from the shaft 800 in a generally vertical direction (e.g., along the chassis 754 of the toy car 704) in the loaded configuration, and the second section 714 of the extension 710 bends from the first section 712 toward the toy car 704. Thus, the surface 856 of the second section 714 of the extension 710 faces the toy car 704 that abuts the wall 852.

[0083] Figure 19A perspective view of a toy set 700 is shown, where the launcher arm 708 is in a rest configuration. For example, the toy set 700 includes an arm biasing member 900 (e.g., a spring), which is configured to urge the launcher arm 708 to move in a second rotational direction 902 towards the rest configuration, and the second rotational direction may include an upward and forward direction opposite to the first rotational direction 810. Thus, in the absence of a force (e.g., a manually applied force) applied to the launcher arm 708 to maintain the launcher arm 708 in the loaded configuration, the arm biasing member 900 moves the launcher arm 708 in the second rotational direction 902. The rotation of the launcher arm 708 in the second rotational direction 902 moves the handle 808 away from the track section 702 and moves the extension 710 towards the toy car 704 positioned within the channel 706 and adjacent to the wall 852. That is, the upward movement of the handle 808 moves the extension 710 towards the toy car 704.

[0084] The extension 710 can contact the toy car 704 positioned within the channel 706 and adjacent to the wall 852 during the transition of the launcher arm 708 towards the rest configuration. For example, the first segment 712 of the extension 710 moves towards the channel 706 during the transition of the launcher arm 708 towards the rest configuration, and the surface 856 can thus be adjacent to the toy car 704 positioned within the channel 706. The adjacency of the extension 710 to the toy car 704 applies an acceleration / propulsion force that drives the movement of the toy car 704 in a first direction 806 along the channel 706 and away from the launcher arm 708. The orientation of the first segment 712 and the second segment 714 relative to each other can enable the surface 856 to contact the toy car 704 in a desired manner to propel the toy car 704 along the channel 706 (e.g., to eject from the channel 706 at a sufficient speed). For example, the surface 856 can be generally flush with and / or generally perpendicular to the first direction 806 with the chassis 754 of the toy car 704 during contact with the toy car 704 due to the cross orientation between the first segment 712 and the second segment 714. This orientation of the surface 856 relative to the chassis 754 (e.g., rather than the surface 856 being angled with respect to the chassis 754) applies the acceleration / propulsion force to the toy car 704 in the first direction 806 rather than in a cross direction (e.g., upward direction, downward direction, lateral direction) relative to the first direction 806. Thus, the contact between the surface 856 and the toy car 704 can drive the movement of the toy car 704 in the first direction 806 and along the track segment 702, rather than, for example, lifting the toy car 704 off the track segment 702 and / or driving the toy car 704 further against the track segment 702. The second segment 714 of the extension 710 can then extend into the groove 716 of the track segment 702 formed within the channel 706 to enable the toy car 704 or another toy car 704 to be positioned within the channel 706 and against the first segment 712 of the extension 710.

[0085] While the toy set has been shown and described in detail with reference to specific embodiments thereof presented herein, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown, since it is apparent that various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the disclosure and within the scope of equivalents of the claims. Additionally, various features from one of the embodiments may be incorporated into another of the embodiments. That is, the disclosure set forth above is considered to cover a number of different embodiments having independent utility. Although each of these embodiments has been disclosed in a preferred form, the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and shown herein should not be taken in a limiting sense, as many variations are possible, and the subject matter of the disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various elements, features, functions, and / or characteristics disclosed herein. Accordingly, it is appropriate to construe the appended claims broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure set forth in the appended claims.

[0086] It should also be understood that the toy set or portions thereof described herein may be manufactured from any suitable material or combination of materials, such as plastics, foams, woods, cardboard, paperweights, metals, soft natural or synthetic materials, including but not limited to cotton, elastomers, polyesters, plastics, rubbers, derivatives thereof, 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 foams may include expanded or extruded polystyrene, expanded or extruded polypropylene, EVA foam, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof.

[0087] Furthermore, it should be understood that terms such as "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", "side", "height", "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "inner", "outer", "interior", "exterior", and similar terms that may be used herein merely describe reference points and do not limit the disclosure to any particular orientation or configuration. Additionally, the term "exemplary" is used herein to describe an example or illustration. 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 disclosure.

[0088] Additionally, as used herein, the term "comprise" and its derivatives (e.g., "comprising", etc.) should not be construed in an exclusive sense, i.e., these terms should not be interpreted to preclude the possibility that the described and defined subject matter may include additional elements, steps, etc. Similarly, in any instance where a description states "a" or "first" element or its equivalent, this disclosure should be understood to encompass the incorporation of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor precluding two or more such elements. Also, as used herein, the term "substantially" and its derivatives (e.g., "substantially the same", etc.) should be understood to indicate a value that is very close to the value accompanying the preceding term. That is, a deviation from the exact value within reasonable limits should be accepted, as those skilled in the art will understand that such deviation from the indicated value is inevitable due to measurement inaccuracies, etc. The same applies to the terms "about" and "approximately" and "substantially". For example, the term "substantially" may indicate a tolerance of plus or minus 0.002 inches, 0.001 inches, or up to 0.005 inches. This also applies to the terms "about" and "approximately" and "substantially". Further, for the purposes of this disclosure, the phrase "A and / or B" means (A), (B), or (A and B), and the phrase "A, B, and / or C" means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C).

[0089] Finally, the technology presented and claimed herein is cited and applied to material objects and specific instances of a practical nature, which demonstrably improve the art, and are thus not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Additionally, if any claim appended to the end of this specification contains one or more elements that are recited as "means for [performing][function]..." or "step for [performing][function]...", then such elements are intended to be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim that contains elements specified in any other manner, such elements are not intended to be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

Claims

1. A toy set comprising: base section; a track section configured to receive a toy vehicle; a biasing member coupled to the base section and to the track section, wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the base section and the track section away from each other and the biasing member is configured to bend to enable the base section and the track section to move relative to each other, a rod configured to extend through the biasing member, wherein the rod is configured to couple the base section and the track section to each other, the rod including a first lip and a second lip; a mount coupled to the rod and to the biasing member, wherein the track segment engages the mount, and the biasing member is configured to bias the mount and the base segment away from each other to bias the base segment and the track segment away from each other, wherein the mounting member defines a first aperture and includes a first protrusion extending into and around the first aperture, the base segment defines a second aperture and includes a second protrusion extending into and around the second aperture, the rod is configured to extend into the first aperture and the second aperture, the mounting member is configured to move relative to the rod via the first aperture, and the base segment is configured to move relative to the rod via the second aperture, and the biasing member is configured to bias the mounting member and the base segment away from each other so that the first lip of the rod abuts the first protrusion of the mounting member and the second lip of the rod abuts the second protrusion of the base segment. 2 . The toy set of claim 1 , wherein the biasing member comprises a coil spring surrounding the first aperture and the second aperture such that the rod extends through the coil spring. 3 . The toy set of claim 1 , wherein the track section includes a channel configured to receive the toy vehicle.

4. The toy set of claim 3 , comprising a trigger arm configured to move between a charged configuration and a rest configuration, the trigger arm comprising an extension configured to extend into the channel and engage the toy vehicle positioned in the channel in the rest configuration of the trigger arm, the extension having a segment that bends toward the toy vehicle in the charged configuration of the trigger arm. 5 . The toy set of claim 4 , wherein the extension is positioned outside of the channel in the loaded configuration of the trigger arm.

6. The toy set of claim 4 , wherein the trigger arm comprises a shaft configured to rotate relative to the track segment to transition the trigger arm between the loaded configuration and the rest configuration, and wherein the extension extends from the shaft such that rotation of the shaft relative to the track segment drives rotation of the extension relative to the track segment.

7. The toy set according to claim 6, wherein the actuator arm includes a handle extending from the shaft, the handle being configured to rotate toward the track section to transition the actuator arm toward the loaded configuration, and the handle being configured to rotate away from the track section to transition the actuator arm toward the stationary configuration.

8. The toy set according to claim 4, wherein the extension is offset from the toy car in the loaded configuration, and the toy set includes an arm biasing member configured to push the actuator arm toward the stationary configuration and push the extension toward the toy car positioned in the channel.

9. A toy set, comprising: A base section defining a first aperture and including a first protrusion extending into and around the first aperture; A track section; And A biasing joint, comprising: A mount defining a second aperture and including a second protrusion extending into and around the second aperture, wherein the track section engages the mount; A biasing member coupled to the base section and coupled to the track section, wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the mount and the base section away from each other, thereby configuring the base section and the track section to be away from each other, and the biasing member is configured to bend to enable relative movement between the base section and the track section; and A rod extending through the biasing member, into the first aperture of the base section, and into the second aperture of the mount, wherein the rod is configured to couple the base section and the track section to each other, the mount is coupled to the rod and coupled to the biasing member, the base section is configured to move relative to the rod via the first aperture, the mount is configured to move relative to the rod via the second aperture, the rod includes a first lip and a second lip, and the biasing member is configured to bias the mount and the base section away from each other such that the first lip of the rod abuts the first protrusion of the base section and the second lip of the rod abuts the second protrusion of the mount.

10. The toy set according to claim 9, comprising an additional rod outside the biasing member, wherein the additional rod is configured to extend through a third aperture of the track section, and the track section is configured to move along the additional rod via the third aperture of the track section to move relative to the base section.

11. The toy set according to claim 10, wherein the additional rod includes a lip configured to abut the track section to prevent the additional rod from moving out of the third aperture of the track section.

12. The toy set according to claim 9, comprising an additional component coupled to the track section, wherein the additional component is movable relative to the track section, and movement of the track section relative to the base section causes the track section to engage the additional component and causes the additional component to move relative to the track section.

13. The toy set according to claim 9, wherein the base section defines a receiving seat including the first aperture, and the biasing member extends into the receiving seat.

14. A toy set comprising: a first section defining a first aperture and including a first protrusion extending into and around the first aperture; a second section; and a biasing joint including: a mounting member engaged with the second section, wherein the mounting member defines a second aperture and includes a second protrusion extending into and around the second aperture; a biasing member coupled to the second section via the mounting member and coupled to the first section, wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the first section and the mounting member away from each other to bias the first section and the second section away from each other, and the biasing member is configured to bend to enable the first section and the second section to move relative to each other; and a rod coupled to the first section and coupled to the mounting member to couple the first section and the second section to each other, wherein the rod extends through the biasing member and extends into the first aperture and the second aperture, the rod including a first lip and a second lip, wherein the first section is configured to move relative to the rod via the first aperture, the mounting member is configured to move relative to the rod via the second aperture, the biasing member is configured to bias the first section and the mounting member away from each other such that the first lip of the rod abuts the first protrusion of the first section and the second lip of the rod abuts the second protrusion of the mounting member.

15. The toy set according to claim 14, wherein the second section includes a third aperture, and the rod is configured to extend through the third aperture.

16. The toy set according to claim 14, wherein the second section defines a receiving seat configured to receive the mounting member to engage the second section with the mounting member.

Images