Toy vehicle launcher and toy vehicle track set

Abstract

A toy vehicle launcher is movable to a plurality of launch positions disposed along one or more paths of a toy vehicle track set. The toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a launch force to a toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is disposed in one of the plurality of launch positions, and the toy vehicle launcher is configured to prevent the launch force from being applied to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is moved between the plurality of launch positions. Additionally or alternatively, the toy vehicle launcher can be configured to apply different launch forces of different magnitudes to the toy vehicle at different ones of the plurality of launch positions.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates generally to toy vehicle launchers and / or toy vehicle track sets including the same. BACKGROUND

[0002] Conventional toy vehicle track sets include one or more tracks along which toy vehicles can travel. In some toy vehicle track sets, an accessory will act on a toy vehicle as the toy vehicle traverses the track and / or as the toy vehicle reaches the end of the track path (i.e., when the vehicle stops). Alternatively, certain track sets can not include an accessory and can encourage racing or speed testing. In any case, to create game value, many of these toy vehicle track sets include or can be used with a launcher or booster that can accelerate a toy vehicle along the track, for example, to generate sufficient speed for a closed loop race and / or to reach or traverse an accessory. However, the maximum size of this acceleration is typically constant. For example, a user can set the size of this acceleration, after which the booster / launcher will attempt to accelerate all cars to the same size. As a result, the game value of the booster and launcher can be limited, and there is a need for a toy vehicle launcher that further engages the attention and imagination of a user. Similarly, there is a need for novel and unique toy vehicle game sets having new game modes. SUMMARY

[0003] A toy vehicle launcher is movable to a plurality of launch positions disposed along one or more paths of a toy vehicle track set. The toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a launch force to a toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is disposed in one of the plurality of launch positions. In some cases, the toy vehicle launcher is configured to prevent the launch force from being applied to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is moved between the plurality of launch positions. Additionally or alternatively, the toy vehicle launcher can be configured to apply different launch forces of different sizes to the toy vehicle at different ones of the plurality of launch positions. According to some embodiments, the present application is directed to a game set including one of these toy vehicle launchers. Alternatively, the present application can be directed to the toy vehicle launcher alone.

[0004] In any case, a toy vehicle launcher capable of launching vehicles at different forces allows the toy vehicles to be used with a variety of track arrangements and thus increases the play value. For example, the toy vehicle launcher can be movable (e.g., vertically) to different regions of a toy vehicle track set having different stunts (or no stunt) and capable of producing a launch force appropriate for each stunt (or each region with no stunt). The toy vehicles can also include various features that enhance the operability of the toy vehicle launcher. For example, in some embodiments, the toy vehicle launcher can provide one or more indications when it is ready to launch, e.g., to prevent the user from feeling frustrated when attempting to initiate a launch when the toy vehicle launcher is not in a predetermined launch position. Additionally or alternatively, the toy vehicle launcher can be locked in place during actuation, e.g., to prevent trigger actuation from accidentally moving the toy vehicle launcher out of a particular launch position during a launch.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toy vehicle track set comprising: one or more vehicle paths; and a toy vehicle launcher movable to a plurality of launch positions disposed along the one or more vehicle paths, wherein the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a launch force to a toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is disposed in one of the plurality of launch positions, and the toy vehicle launcher is configured to prevent the launch force from being applied to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is moved between the plurality of launch positions.

[0006] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, wherein the toy vehicle track set comprises a tower along which the toy vehicle launcher is vertically movable, the tower comprising a plurality of grooves for defining the plurality of launch positions.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, wherein the plurality of grooves further define one or more non-launch positions, and the tower comprises a stop associated with each of the plurality of grooves defining one of the plurality of launch positions.

[0008] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, wherein the toy vehicle launcher comprises a locking assembly that prevents movement of the toy vehicle launcher, wherein the stop is configured to engage the locking assembly when the toy vehicle launcher applies the launch force to the toy vehicle.

[0009] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, wherein the tower comprises a control band having a notch associated with each of the plurality of grooves defining one of the plurality of launch positions.

[0010] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the toy vehicle launcher includes a force control assembly that controls the launch force applied to the toy vehicle, wherein each notch is configured to activate the force control assembly such that the toy vehicle launcher is able to apply the launch force to the toy vehicle.

[0011] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the toy vehicle launcher includes one or more triggers that are actuatable at or between the plurality of launch positions, wherein actuation of a trigger initiated when the toy vehicle is positioned between the plurality of launch positions does not cause the toy vehicle to generate the launch force.

[0012] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the launch force has different magnitudes at different ones of the plurality of launch positions.

[0013] According to another aspect of the application, there is provided a toy vehicle track set including: one or more vehicle paths; and a toy vehicle launcher that is movable to at least two positions disposed along the one or more vehicle paths, wherein at different ones of the at least two positions, the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply different launch forces of different magnitudes to a toy vehicle on which the toy vehicle launcher acts.

[0014] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the different positions are vertically spaced apart between a base and a top of the toy vehicle track set, and the different magnitudes increase as the toy vehicle launcher moves from the base of the toy vehicle track set to the top of the toy vehicle track set.

[0015] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the toy vehicle track set includes a tower along which the toy vehicle launcher is vertically movable, and the tower defines the different positions to be vertically spaced apart along a height of the tower.

[0016] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the tower includes a control band having notches of different depths arranged along the height of the tower, and notch depth is configured to control the magnitudes of the different launch forces at the different positions.

[0017] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the toy vehicle launcher includes a force control assembly that mechanically controls the magnitude of a particular launch force applied by the toy vehicle launcher to the toy vehicle when a portion of the force control assembly is moved into a particular one of the notches.

[0018] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the one or more vehicle paths include: a first track path having a track length, wherein the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a first launch force of a first magnitude to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is aligned with the first track path, the first launch force being sufficient to allow the toy vehicle to traverse the track length; and a second track path including a stunt, wherein the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a second launch force of a second magnitude to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is aligned with the second track path, the second launch force being sufficient to allow the toy vehicle to complete the stunt.

[0019] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the stunt is a loop or an interaction with an interactive stunt element.

[0020] According to another aspect of the application, there is provided a launcher for a toy vehicle, the launcher comprising: a handle portion including one or more triggers; a kickstand portion configured to movably couple the launcher to a toy vehicle track or a toy vehicle track set; a base configured to support a toy vehicle; and a launch mechanism configured to control a force applied to the toy vehicle on the base in response to selective actuation of at least one of the one or more triggers.

[0021] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the launch mechanism includes: a locking component that prevents movement of the launcher when the force is applied to the toy vehicle; and a force control component that limits a maximum magnitude of the force applied to the toy vehicle, the maximum magnitude being variable based on a position of the launcher.

[0022] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the base includes: a first lane for a first toy vehicle; and a second lane for a second toy vehicle.

[0023] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the launch mechanism includes: a first booster component that interacts with the first toy vehicle in the first lane; and a second booster component that interacts with the second toy vehicle in the second lane; the first booster component and the second booster component are actuatable based on: (a) a state of the launch mechanism; and (b) actuation of the one or more triggers.

[0024] According to one or more embodiments of the application, wherein the first booster component and the second booster component are operable jointly or separately.

[0025] Other systems, methods, features and advantages will be, or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the subject matter recited in the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0026] The toy vehicle launcher presented herein can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The elements in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the toy vehicle booster. In the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

[0027] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a track set including the toy vehicle launcher presented herein.

[0028] Figure 2 A front perspective view of a toy vehicle track set having a toy vehicle launcher formed in accordance with an example embodiment of the present application is shown.

[0029] Figure 3 A rear perspective view of the toy vehicle track set of Figure 2

[0030] Figure 4A Figure 4B and Figure 5A show a left side perspective view, a right side perspective view, and a left side view, respectively, of a portion of the toy vehicle track set of Figure 2

[0031] Figure 5B schematically depict the control band shown in Figure 4A and Figure 5A

[0032] Figure 6 A rear perspective view of a toy vehicle launcher included in the toy vehicle track set of Figure 2

[0033] Figures 7-9 A perspective view of a portion of the toy vehicle launcher of Figure 6 Figure 7 shows a front perspective view, Figure 8 shows a front perspective view of the toy vehicle launcher with a portion removed, and Figure 9 shows a rear perspective view of the diagonal brace portion of the toy vehicle launcher.

[0034] Figure 10 Figure 6 ​​​​​​​A front perspective view of a base portion of a toy vehicle launcher and a trigger, with a top cover of the base portion removed to show a launch mechanism of the toy vehicle launcher.

[0035] Figure 11 A front perspective view of a base portion of a toy vehicle launcher and a trigger, with a top cover of the base portion removed to show a launch mechanism of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 6 Figure 10

[0036] Figure 12A A first side perspective view of a portion of a force control assembly of the launch mechanism of the toy vehicle launcher, the portion including a hammer assembly. Figure 10

[0037] Figure 12B A second side perspective view of the hammer assembly, opposite the first side perspective view of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 12A

[0038] Figures 13-15 A bottom perspective view of some components of the base portion of the toy vehicle launcher of the toy vehicle launcher, with a bottom cover of the base portion omitted to show a force control assembly of the launch mechanism in a different position. Figure 6

[0039] A bottom view of the base portion of the toy vehicle launcher of the toy vehicle launcher, with a bottom cover of the base portion omitted to show a lock assembly of the launch mechanism in a different position. Figure 16 Figure 17 Figure 6 A top view of a booster assembly of the launch mechanism of the toy vehicle launcher.

[0040] Figure 18 A bottom perspective view of the booster assembly of the toy vehicle launcher in a different position.

[0041] Figures 19-22 A bottom view of a top cover of the base portion of the toy vehicle launcher of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 6

[0042] A top view of a bottom cover of the base portion of the toy vehicle launcher of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 23A A front view of a top layer of a toy vehicle track set of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 6

[0043] A right side view of the toy vehicle track set of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 23B Figure 6 Figure 24 A bottom view of a top cover of the base portion of the toy vehicle launcher of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 2

[0044] A bottom view of a bottom cover of the base portion of the toy vehicle launcher of the toy vehicle launcher. Figure 25 Figure 2 A right side view of the toy vehicle track set of the toy vehicle launcher.

[0045] Figure 26 Figure 27 ​​​​​​​​​​a perspective view of an interactive stunt element included on a top side of a toy vehicle track set during different portions of an interaction Figure 2 a perspective view of an interactive stunt element included on a top side of a toy vehicle track set during different portions of an interaction

[0046] Figure 28 a perspective view of an interactive stunt element included on a top side of a toy vehicle track set during different portions of an interaction DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0047] Overall, a toy vehicle launcher and a toy vehicle track set including the launcher are presented herein. The toy vehicle launcher is movable to a plurality of launch positions, which can be disposed along one or more paths of the toy vehicle track set. The toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a launch force to a toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is disposed in one of the plurality of launch positions, and in at least some cases, the toy vehicle launcher is configured to prevent the launch force from being applied to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is moved between the plurality of launch positions. Thus, the toy vehicle launcher will prevent accidental launches between launch positions. Additionally or alternatively, the toy vehicle launcher can be configured to apply different launch forces of different magnitudes to the toy vehicle at different ones of the plurality of launch positions. For example, the toy vehicle launcher can be configured to apply a launch force that is specifically tailored for a particular position, such that, for example, the toy vehicle is launched at a sufficient speed for a stunt, track length, etc. included at the particular position. Among other advantages, this can allow the launcher to be used with a variety of tracks and / or stunt devices, thereby increasing the play value of the toy vehicle launcher and / or a track set including or operable with the toy vehicle launcher.

[0048] Figure 1 The above concepts are illustrated schematically. In particular, Figure 1 A track set 10 is schematically depicted with a toy vehicle launcher 20 that is movable between at least a first launch position PI and a second launch position P2 (with the launcher depicted in dashed lines at the second launch position P2 to show that it can be moved to the second launch position P2). When the toy vehicle launcher 20 (which can sometimes be referred to simply as the launcher 20 for simplicity) is at the first launch position PI or the second launch position P2, the launcher 20 is free to apply a force (such as force Fl or force F2) to a toy vehicle to, for example, accelerate the vehicle along a track and / or propel the toy vehicle. Notably, however, when the toy vehicle launcher 20 is between the launch positions PI and P2, the launcher 20 is locked and cannot apply a force to the toy vehicle. Thus, if a user accidentally actuates the launcher trigger while moving the launcher 20 between the launch positions PI and P2, the toy vehicle can remain disposed in the launcher 20 and the user will avoid a frustrating experience. This locking can also prevent damage to the toy vehicle, the track set 10, and / or the launcher 20.

[0049] Further, in at least some embodiments, the launcher 20 can utilize a first size of force Fl to launch the toy vehicle when the launcher 20 is positioned at the first launch position Pl. Then, the launcher 20 can launch the toy vehicle with a second size of force F2 when the launcher 20 is positioned at the second launch position P2, which can be greater or less than the first size of force Fl. For example, the launch position Pl can be positioned at the base of a hill, while the launch position P2 is positioned partially up the hill. Thus, the force Fl can be greater than the force F2 such that the toy vehicle can be propelled from multiple positions to the top of the hill without having a speed that is so fast as to cause the toy vehicle to jump upon reaching the top of the hill. Alternatively, the forces Fl and F2 can be specifically tailored (e.g., forces sufficient to allow the toy vehicle to complete a stunt, traverse a length of track, etc.) depending on the stunt, length of track, or any other feature or characteristic of the toy vehicle track set included at the particular launch position.

[0050] Still further, a track set incorporating the concepts presented herein need not include only two launch positions. Rather, the track set 10 can include two or more launch positions. To illustrate this, Figure 1 including launch position X, which is shown in dashed lines. The launch position X can represent any additional launch positions included in the toy vehicle track set 10. In some cases, the launcher 20 can be moved from one launch position, such as launch position Pl, to any other launch position, such as launch position P2 or launch position X. However, in other embodiments, the movement can need to be sequential (i.e., from launch position Pl to launch position P2, to launch position X (and Xl, X2, etc.), and vice versa. Regardless, the launcher 20 can be locked while moving between launch positions, and can be unlocked / activated (e.g., able to apply a launch force) when it reaches a designated launch position. Additionally or alternatively, while the launcher 20 can produce different sizes of launch forces at at least two launch positions, the launcher 20 need not produce different sizes of launch forces at each different launch position (but can).

[0051] Figure 2 and Figure 3Front and rear views of an example embodiment of a toy vehicle track set 100 that can include a launcher formed in accordance with the present application are shown. The toy vehicle track set 100 extends generally from a first side 102 (also referred to as a left side) to a second side 103 (also referred to as a right side), from a bottom 104 to a top 105, and from a front 106 to a back 107. In the depicted embodiment, the launcher 200 is disposed generally along the first side 102 and is movable between the bottom 104 and the top 105 of the toy vehicle track set 100. However, reiterate that the toy vehicle track set 100 is merely an example. In other track sets, the launcher 200 can be moved around / along the track set in any manner (e.g., from side to side, from front to back, and / or in multiple directions). That is, with the depicted arrangement, toy vehicles are launched generally from the first side 102 toward the second side 103, but can also be able to move vertically between the bottom 104 and the top 105.

[0052] More specifically, the toy vehicle track set 100 includes a base 120 that extends generally from the first side 102 to the second side 103 and defines or supports one or more track paths along which toy vehicles can travel. The base 120 also supports a first tower 160 adjacent the first side 102 of the toy vehicle track set 100 and a second tower 180 adjacent the second side 103 of the toy vehicle track set 100. The towers 160 and 180 support a second level 130, a third level 140, and a top level 150 above the base 120, each of which: (a) extends generally from the first side 102 to the second side 103, and (b) defines or supports one or more track paths along which toy vehicles can travel.

[0053] Additionally, but perhaps most importantly, in the toy vehicle track set 100, each of the base 120, the second level 130, the third level 140, and the top level 150 are aligned with a launch position of the launcher 200. Specifically, a first launch position PI is aligned with the base 120, a second launch position P2 is aligned with the second level 130, a third launch position P3 is aligned with the third level 140, and a fourth launch position P4 is aligned with the top level 150. Thus, the different launch positions PI - P4 are vertically spaced apart between the bottom 104 and the top 105 of the toy vehicle track set 100. In the depicted embodiment, the base 120, the second level 130, the third level 140, and the top level 150 each provide different track configurations to create various track interactions for the different launch positions PI - P4, thereby increasing the play value of the toy vehicle track set 100.

[0054] As Figure 3As shown, the base 120 includes two lanes 122 (also referred to as paths) along which toy cars can be propelled. The second level 130 also includes two lanes 132 (also referred to as paths), but adds diverters 133. The diverters 133 and two lanes 132 form a raceway configuration, as the diverters 133 react to toy cars passing the diverters 133 by closing off opposing lanes (e.g., blocking the lane of a slower toy car). Thus, the second level 130 can be referred to as a raceway level. Meanwhile, the third level 140 and the top level 150 are stunt levels. The third level 140 includes two lanes 142 (also referred to as paths) that traverse stationary stunts 143 in the form of vertical loops. The top level 150 includes interactive stunt elements 300 at which cars can be launched to initiate interesting game modes and / or actions, as described in detail below.

[0055] Still referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the depicted embodiment, the launch positions P1-P4 are generally defined by the first tower 160. Meanwhile, the tower 180 also extends vertically (i.e., longitudinally upward) from the base 120 to support the various levels and to interconnect the base 120, the second level 130, the third level 140, and the top level 150. Thus, the tower 180 generally supports the track 158 across at least a portion of the height of the tower 180. In the depicted embodiment, the track 158 also generally extends adjacent to the tower 180 as it spirals downward from a starting point disposed below the funnel 155 of the top level 150 and terminates at the base 120. However, in other embodiments, the track 158 can extend through and / or around the tower 180 or in any other manner.

[0056] Indeed, as has been repeatedly stated, the toy car track set 100 is merely an example of a track set that can support and / or include a launcher 200, and other embodiments can include any features, arrangements, tracks, levels, etc. For example, in other embodiments, the toy car track set 100 need not include the track 158, the tower 180, or any portion or component related thereto. Rather, a toy car track set can include various track paths supported by freestanding supports. Additionally, a track set supporting a launcher as presented herein need not include four levels and need not include a tower 160 supporting vertical movement of the launcher 200. For example, the launcher 200 can be horizontally or laterally movable, such as along the base and / or to different tracks that start at the same vertical position.

[0057] That is, and now turning to Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 5AThe first tower 160 of the depicted embodiment movably supports the launcher 200 along the first side 102 of the toy vehicle track set 100. That is, the first tower 160 allows the launcher 200 to move vertically along the toy vehicle track set 100 (and thus, the first tower 160 can sometimes be referred to as an elevator). Additionally, the first tower 160 defines launch positions PI, P2, P3, and P4. Figure 4A The tower 160 is depicted from a front perspective (relative to the toy vehicle track set 100 as a whole), Figure 4B The tower 160 is depicted from a rear perspective, and Figure 5A The first tower 160 is depicted from a side view. As can be seen, in the depicted embodiment, the first tower 160 is formed from a front outer strut 162, a rear outer strut 172, and a middle strut 1601 extending between the front outer strut 162 and the rear outer strut 172.

[0058] The front outer strut 162 includes a front face 163 and a side face 167, while the rear outer strut 172 includes a rear face 173 and a side face 177. The side faces 167 and 177 collectively define a surface along which the launcher 200 can be translated vertically, and each include vertically spaced apart grooves 168 and 178, respectively, to define various positions at which the launcher 200 can be stopped. As can be seen, some of the grooves 168 and 178 are aligned with the launch positions PI - P4, but additional grooves are positioned between the launch positions PI - P4. These additional grooves define intermediate, non-launching positions at which the launcher 200 can be held. However, when in these intermediate positions, the launcher 200 will not be able to apply force (e.g., propulsion and / or acceleration) to a toy vehicle. Rather, these intermediate positions can align the launcher 200 with additional track features, such as parking spaces, imaginative play areas, and other such features, to allow a user to manually move a toy vehicle from the launcher 200 into these additional track features.

[0059] Meanwhile, the front face 163 of the front outer strut 162 and the rear face 173 of the rear outer strut 172 can include features that can actuate portions of the launcher 200, for example, to produce an indication, to unlock / activate the launcher 200, and / or to prevent the launcher 200 from moving when the launcher 200 is applying acceleration / propulsion force to one or more toy vehicles. Specifically, as can be seen in Figure 4A The front face 163 includes a channel 164 and internal protrusions 165 that protrude from the channel 164 at intervals that are aligned with the launch positions PI - P4. Meanwhile, as can be seen in Figure 4BAs shown, the back face 173 includes a channel 174 and detents 175 that protrude from the channel 174 at intervals aligned with the launch positions P1-P4. However, in other embodiments, the front face 163 and / or the back face 173 can include similar channels and similar protrusions and / or detents (i.e., the channel 164 and / or the channel 174 can include any combination of the detents 175 and the protrusions 165). As described in further detail below, as the launcher 200 is translated vertically along the first tower 160, portions of the launcher 200 can be positioned within the channel 164 and the channel 174. The internal protrusions 165 and the detents 175 can then engage components of the launcher 200 to lock the launcher 200 into a particular position (e.g., launch position P1, P2, P3, or P4), produce an indication that the launcher 200 is ready to launch, and / or unlock / activate the launch mechanism 280 of the launcher 200 so that the launcher 200 can apply an acceleration / propulsion force to one or more toy vehicles.

[0060] Reference is now made to Figure 5B , but in combination with Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 5A In the depicted embodiment, the side 1602 of the middle strut 1601 also interacts with the launcher 200, but for controlling the variable magnitude of the force produced by the launcher 200. More specifically, the side 1602 of the middle strut 1601 includes a control band 1603 having notches 1604 of different depths arranged intermittently along its length (i.e., vertically spaced along the height of the tower 160). The notches 1604 are positioned in alignment with the launch positions P1-P4, and thus also in alignment with the subset of the grooves 168 and 178. As described in detail below, each notch 1604 is configured to activate a force control component within the launcher 200 so that the toy vehicle launcher 200 can apply a launch force to one or more toy vehicles. In fact, in the depicted embodiment, the depth of each notch 1604 is configured to control the variable magnitude of a different launch force at a different launch position P1-P4. By comparison, positions on the control band 1603 without a notch 1604 can be configured to prevent the launcher 200 from applying an acceleration / propulsion force to one or more toy vehicles.

[0061] Figure 5B These different depths are shown schematically in exaggerated fashion. Specifically, in Figure 5BIn particular, the first notch 1604(1) aligned with the first launch position PI is deeper (e.g., larger) than the second notch 1604(2) aligned with the second launch position P2, which is deeper (e.g., larger) than the third notch 1604(3) aligned with the third launch position P3, which is deeper (e.g., larger) than the fourth notch 1604(4) aligned with the fourth launch position P4. Thus, the depth of the notches 1604 decreases as it moves upward along the toy track set 100 (e.g., upward along the first tower 160). As detailed below, this can result in the launcher 200 producing an increasing magnitude of force as it moves upward along the toy track set 100. However, it is important to note that Figure 5B is merely illustrative and other embodiments need not provide notches 1604 that decrease in depth and / or need not provide notches 1604 that decrease in the manner illustratively depicted in FIG. 16. For example, in other embodiments, some of the notches 1604 can have the same depth and / or the depth of the notches 1604 can increase or decrease in any manner (e.g., increase then decrease (or vice versa), vary non-uniformly, or some combination thereof). Figure 5B

[0062] However, it is reiterated that in other embodiments, the launcher 200 need not move along the first tower 160 and can move in any manner along the track or any portion of the track set, and if the launcher 200 does move along a tower, such as the first tower 160, the tower need not include every feature of the first tower 160. For example, in other embodiments, the first tower 160 can include one post with features that control all aspects of the launcher 200, and / or the launcher 200 can be configured to interact with different features (as compared to the features described in connection with the first tower 160). As one example, the tower first tower 160 can not include the middle post 1601 and can control locking, unlocking, and / or force magnitude via features included on the other posts (e.g., via the grooves 168 and / or the grooves 178).

[0063] Turning now to Figure 6 the orientation of the launcher 200 of the depicted embodiment is generally described relative to the toy vehicle disposed therein. Thus, although the launcher 200 is generally shown on the first side 102 of the toy track set 100, the launcher 200 is described as extending from the back 202 to the front 201, which faces and generally abuts the sides 167 and 177 of the front outer post 162 and the rear outer post 172, respectively, at the first side 102 of the toy track set 100. Thus, Figure 6 ​The perspective is considered to be a rear perspective. Moreover, in accordance with this perspective, the width or lateral span of the launcher 200 is generally defined between the first side 203 and the second side 204 of the launcher 200, while the height of the launcher 200 is generally defined between the bottom 206 and the top 205 of the launcher 200. In the depicted embodiment, the handle portion 210 generally defines the top 205 of the launcher 200, while the base portion 260 generally defines the bottom 206 of the launcher 200. The base portion 260 and the handle portion 210 are each coupled to the brace portion 230, which is configured to movably engage the first tower 160.

[0064] In the depicted embodiment, the handle portion 210 is relatively open to provide access to the launch area, which is primarily defined by the top surface 2621 of the top cover 262 of the base portion 260. Accordingly, the handle portion 210 includes a first trigger support 212 extending from the base portion 260 along the first side 203 of the launcher 200 and a second trigger support 222 extending from the base portion 260 along the second side 204 of the launcher 200. The first trigger support 212 and the second trigger support 222 also define the top 205 of the launcher 200 in a frame-like manner and connect to the brace portion 230 at the top 205 of the handle portion 210, thereby defining a stabilizing frame 260 around the base portion. This frame-like structure also provides support for the first trigger 213 and the second trigger 223.

[0065] The first trigger 213 is configured to longitudinally translate (e.g., along a direction extending between the front 201 and the back 202) within a first cavity 215 disposed on the first side 203 of the launcher 200. Meanwhile, the second trigger 223 is configured to longitudinally translate within a second cavity 225 disposed on the second side 204 of the launcher 200. In some embodiments, actuation of the first trigger 213 causes a launch mechanism 280 disposed within the base portion 260 to launch a toy vehicle disposed in a first lane 264 of the top surface 2621 (e.g., to apply an acceleration / propulsion force thereto), while actuation of the second trigger 223 causes the launch mechanism 280 to launch a toy vehicle disposed in a second lane 266 of the top surface 2621. Additionally or alternatively, both triggers 213 and 223 can be actuated simultaneously to launch two toy vehicles from the first lane 264 and the second lane 266 simultaneously.

[0066] Figure 7A front perspective view of the brace portion 230 of the launcher 200 is depicted. As noted above, the brace portion 230 is generally configured to movably engage the first tower 160 such that the launcher 200 is vertically movable relative to the toy car track set 100. In the depicted embodiment, this is accomplished by providing the brace portion 230 with a body 232 that defines a partially annular body 232 that extends around at least a portion of a central opening 244. The central opening 244 is generally configured to align with the lanes 264 and 266 of the launcher 200 and thus allow toy cars to travel from the launcher 200 onto the track path defined by the toy car track set 100. At the same time, the body 232 has a front face 234 that defines the front 201 of the launcher 200 and an inwardly facing compartment 240 that faces the central opening 244. The compartment 240 is configured to align with the front face 163 and the back face 173 of the first tower 160 and house the rollers 241 that are slidable along the front face 163 and the back face 173 and their edges. In other words, the rollers 241 laterally and longitudinally surround the front outer strut 162 and the back outer strut 172. Last but not least, the brace portion 230 includes a catch 242 in each compartment 240. The catch 242 is configured to detachably engage the grooves 168 and 178 and thus can at least temporarily position the launcher 200 at various positions along the height of the first tower 160.

[0067] Turning now to Figure 8 and Figure 9 , in the depicted embodiment, the body 232 of the brace portion 230 includes an interior compartment 246 that houses an indicator assembly 250. The indicator assembly 250 is configured to indicate when the launcher 200 is in a launch position (i.e., position PI, P2, P3, or P4). Thus, in the depicted embodiment, the indicator assembly 250 includes a cam 252 that is positioned to cause rotation of a launch indicator 254 when the launcher 200 moves the cam 252 into engagement with one of the interior protrusions 165 included on the first tower 160 (see Figure 4A ). As noted above, the interior protrusions 165 align with the launch positions PI, P2, P3, and P4, and thus the cam 252 will be mechanically actuated at the launch positions PI, P2, P3, and P4. This actuation causes the cam 252 to rotate the launch indicator 254 to a launch indicator position, as Figure 9 depicted. From Figure 9As can also be seen, the rear 256 of the body 232 of the canting portion 230 includes an opening 258 that exposes the launch indicator 254 when the launch indicator 254 is in a launch indicating position. Thus, the launch indicator 254 will be visible when the launcher 200 is in one of the launch positions PI, P2, P3, and P4, and will not be visible when the launcher 200 is in another position (e.g., in an intermediate, non-launching position, such as those defined by the grooves that are not aligned with the launch positions PI, P2, P3, and P4).

[0068] Turning now to Figure 10 and 11 As shown, the base portion 260 of the launcher 200 houses a launch mechanism 280 that controls the launch / propelling operation of the launcher 200. More specifically, the launch mechanism 280: (a) allows the launcher 200 to apply a launch force to a toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is disposed in one of a plurality of launch positions; (b) prevents the launcher 200 from applying a launch force to a toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is moved between the plurality of launch positions; (c) locks the launcher 200 in place during a launch operation; and / or (d) controls the magnitude of the launch force applied to a toy vehicle at a particular launch position. The state (i.e., position) of the launch mechanism 280 and / or the state of components of the launch mechanism 280 can control these operations.

[0069] The launch mechanism 280 is generally disposed within the base portion 260, in an interior cavity 279 defined between the top cover 262 and the bottom cover 272. In Figure 10 The top cover 262 is removed from the base portion 260 to illustrate the launch mechanism 280. However, the top cover 262 is included in the cross-sectional view of Figure 11 Additionally, while the triggers 213 and 223 can be considered part of the handle portion 210 in some cases, the triggers 213 and 223 are illustrated in Figure 10 and Figure 11 to illustrate the interaction between the triggers 213 and 223 and the launch mechanism 280. Further, while the depicted embodiment has two triggers, other embodiments can include one trigger or more than two triggers, any number of triggers can be associated with any number of lanes (e.g., one trigger for one lane or two lanes), and / or any triggers can operate jointly or independently. That is, two triggers that are generally found to operate together (i.e., jointly) are able to produce a stable launch because it produces simultaneous actuation on both sides of the launcher 200.

[0070] In the depicted embodiment, the launching mechanism 280 includes a locking assembly 282, a force control assembly 281, a first booster assembly 290, and a second booster assembly 291. The locking assembly 282 and / or the force control assembly 281 are generally configured to lock or unlock / activate the booster assemblies 290 and 291, while the force control assembly 281 can also control the magnitude of the force that can be generated by the booster assemblies 290 and 291. This, in turn, controls the magnitude of the force that the launching mechanism 280 applies to a toy vehicle disposed in the launcher 200 (e.g., at rest in the first lane 264 or the second lane 266). However, it is important to note that the locking assembly 282 and / or the force control assembly 281 do not necessarily always operate the first booster assembly 290 and the second booster assembly 291 in conjunction, and in at least some instances, the first booster assembly 290 and the second booster assembly 291 can be operated separately.

[0071] In Figure 10 and Figure 11 it can be seen that, in the depicted embodiment, the force control assembly 281 is generally positioned above the first booster assembly 290 and the second booster assembly 291, while the locking assembly 282 is positioned laterally outward of one of the first booster assembly 290 and the second booster assembly 291. The force control assembly 281 also includes an actuation element 285 that is configured to extend through an opening 2961 included in a front surface 296 of the base portion 260. The actuation element 285 can be biased to a protruding position (e.g., by a resilient element not shown) such that a front end of the actuation element 285 can interact with the first tower 160 to allow or prevent launching in the manner described in detail below. At the same time, a rear end of the actuation element 285 is configured to engage an elongate member 286 that extends over the booster assemblies 290 and 291 to operably couple the actuation element 285 to a hammer assembly 287.

[0072] Still referring to Figure 10 and Figure 11 but now in conjunction with Figure 12A and Figure 12B the hammer assembly 287 of the force control assembly 281 includes a hammer 289 and a latch 288. For the sake of clarity, Figure 12A the hammer assembly 287 is shown from a first side perspective, while many other components of the launching mechanism 280 and / or the base portion 260 are omitted, such as the top cover 262. At the same time, Figure 12B the hammer assembly 287 is shown from a second side perspective (opposite the Figure 12AThe first side perspective view (compared to the opposite side) shows the components of the hammer assembly 287. As can be seen from these figures, the hammer 289 extends between the first trigger 213 and the second trigger 223, and is fixedly coupled to the bottom end of each of the triggers 213 and 223. Meanwhile, the top ends 2131 of trigger 213 and 2231 of trigger 223 are each rotatably coupled to the handle portion 210, such that the hammer 289 is translatable in response to trigger actuation (e.g., pivoting) that moves (e.g., moves) the triggers 213 and 223 relative to their respective top ends 2131 and 2231.

[0073] The latch 288 of the hammer assembly 287 is rotatably connected to the hammer 289 via a shaft 2883 and a torsion spring 2884 that biases the latch 288 in the direction D1. The torsion spring 2884 biases the latch 288 toward the rest position 1450 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 14 However, when the elongated member 286 is positioned above the latch 288, it prevents the latch 288 from moving into its rest position 1450, and the latch 288 includes a cam surface 2882 that facilitates engagement with the elongated member 286. On the other hand, if the elongated member 286 is not engaged with the latch 288, the latch 288 can rotate in the direction D1. This rotation will rotate the trigger 2881 of the latch 288 outwards. Figure 11 and Figure 12A The booster engagement position 1100 shown faces the bottom surface 2622 of the top cover 262 of the base portion 260 (i.e., away from booster assemblies 290 and 291).

[0074] Generally, when latch 288 is in the booster engaged position 1100, launch stop 2881 can engage / capture pusher assemblies 290 and 291 such that if / when hammer assembly 287 moves / translates (e.g., in response to actuation of triggers 213 and / or 223), pusher assemblies 290 and 291 travel together with hammer assembly 287. Alternatively, if launch stop 2881 rotates in direction D1, it can release pusher assemblies 290 and 291 and allow pusher assemblies 290 and 291 to move separately from hammer assembly 287, for example, to apply a launching force to a toy car. Therefore, if latch 288 cannot rotate to its rest position 1450, latch 288 can prevent launcher 200 from launching the toy car. In the depicted embodiment, the force control component 281 is designed to allow this rotation only when the transmitter 200 is in a predetermined firing position (e.g., firing position P1, P2, P3, or P4). Therefore, the force control component 281 only allows firing at the predetermined firing position (e.g., firing position P1, P2, P3, or P4).

[0075] More specifically, and now turning toFigures 13-15 But continue to refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 (refer to Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B (This may also be helpful) When the launcher 200 is moved to a launch position (e.g., launch position P1, P2, P3, or P4), the force control component 281 will be actuated. The magnitude of this actuation determines the maximum force that the launch mechanism 280 can apply to the toy car. In the depicted embodiment, the magnitude of this actuation is determined by the notch 1604 (e.g., on the control band 1603 of the tower 160, see...). Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5A and Figure 5B The depth of the notch is determined by the actuation element 285 of the force control assembly 281. Figures 13-15 Examples of this type of actuation are provided.

[0076] first, Figure 13 A scenario is depicted in which the actuating element 285 engages the control band 1603 but is not aligned with one of the notches 1604. In this case, the actuating element 285 will be fully depressed and will drive the elongated member 286 to its maximum extent, causing the elongated member 286 to be in an extended position 1300, which extends beyond the resting positions of the booster assemblies 290 and 291 to a maximum depth MD. The maximum depth MD can span the entire travel distance of the hammer 289, such that whenever the hammer assembly 287 is retracted, for example by pulling trigger 213 and / or trigger 223 (and for any amount of retraction), the elongated member 286 is positioned above the latch 288.

[0077] Therefore, when the elongated member 286 is in the extended position 1300, the latch 288 will not be able to move beyond the elongated member 286 and will be prevented from rotating away from its engaged position 1100, including in response to actuation of trigger 213 and / or trigger 223. That is, the latch 288 will not be able to release the booster assembly 290 and / or booster assembly 291 to allow one or both of the booster assemblies 290, 291 to apply a launching / propulsive force to the toy car. Therefore, the extended position 1300 can be generally described as the force-locked position or the powerless position depicted. However, it should be clarified that the extended position 1300 does not necessarily prevent the launcher 200 and / or trigger 213 and / or its trigger 213 from moving; rather, the extended position 1300 prevents the launcher 200 from generating a launching / propulsive force.

[0078] By comparison, in Figure 14 and Figure 15 In the middle, the slender member 286 only spans a portion of the maximum depth MD. Figure 14the distance SD1 in the middle of the hammer assembly 287 and Figure 15 the distance SD2 in the middle of the hammer assembly 287). Thus, the hammer assembly 287 can move the latch 288 past (and out of engagement with) the elongate member 286 to allow the latch 288 to move from its engaged position 1100 toward its at-rest position 1450 (e.g., due to the bias of the torsion spring 2884). When the actuation element 285 of the force control assembly 281 (see Figure 7 and Figure 10 ) aligns with one of the notches 1604 of the control band 1603 (of the middle strut 1601 of the first tower 160), the elongate member 286 will move to such a position (e.g., positions 1400 and 1500). However, it is important to note that positions 1400 and 1500 are merely examples of positions that the notches 1604 and / or the actuation element 285 can move the elongate member 286 to, and even the depicted embodiment can include notches 1604 that move the elongate member 286 to additional positions (e.g., positions associated with the first notch 1604(1) and the third notch 1604(3)).

[0079] Generally speaking, the actuation element 285 is biased to extend out of the opening 2961 in the front surface 296, but can be pushed into the base portion 260 when encountering an obstacle, such as the control band 1603. Thus, engagement of the actuation element 285 with the control band 1603 and / or its notches 1604 causes translation of the elongate member 286. Less extension into the notches 1604 results in further extension of the elongate member 286, which in turn allows the launch mechanism 280 to produce a larger magnitude of launch force, until the elongate member 286 crosses the maximum depth MD to lock the launch mechanism 280 (i.e., prevent the launch mechanism 280 from producing a launch force). Due to the bias of the actuation element 285, the actuation element 285 and the elongate member 286 can automatically return to the non-cammed positions between the notches 1604.

[0080] More specifically, position 1400( Figure 14 ) can illustrate the launcher 200 (see Figure 5B ) when aligned with the second notch 1604(2) of the control band 1603 at the launch position P2, while position 1500( Figure 15 ) can illustrate the launcher 200 (see Figure 5B). In the depicted embodiment, the fourth notch 1604(4) (firing position P4) can be shallower than the second notch 1604(2) (firing position P2). As a result, the fourth notch 1604(4) limits the extension of the actuation element 285 beyond the front surface 296 of the base portion 260 compared to the second notch 1604(2). That is, the actuation element 285 can extend further beyond the front surface 296 of the base portion 260 when aligned with the second notch 1604(2) than when aligned with the fourth notch 1604(4). As a result, the fourth notch 1604(4) can cause the elongate member 286 to extend a distance SD2 (which is greater than the distance SD1 of extension caused by the second notch 1604(2)). As noted above, this means that the fourth notch 1604(4) and the position 1500 of the elongate member 286 can allow the firing mechanism 280 to produce a greater magnitude of firing force compared to the firing force produced at the second notch 1604(2) and the position 1400 of the elongate member 286.

[0081] Importantly, both the distance SD1 and the distance SD2 only cover a portion of the maximum depth MD and thus form an arrangement in which movement of the hammer assembly 287 can ultimately cause the latch 288 to move to its rest position 1450. This would then release the booster assembly 290 and / or 291 to produce a toy vehicle launch (i.e., apply an acceleration / propulsion force to the toy vehicle). The magnitude of the force produced by the booster assembly 290 and / or 291 will be directly related to the latch actuation position, which in turn is determined by the depth of the notch 1604 in the first tower 160 of the toy vehicle track set 100. More specifically, if the latch 288 moves a greater distance before moving from its engaged position 1100 to its rest position 1450, the force control assembly 281 will allow the booster assembly 290 and / or 291 to produce a higher launch / propulsion force. As an example, when the elongate member 286 is at the position 1500, the force control assembly 281 allows the booster assembly 290 and / or 291 to produce a higher maximum force than they can produce when the elongate member 286 is at the position 1400 (because the distance SD2 is greater than the distance SD1). However, if the translational distance of the elongate member 286 reaches or exceeds a threshold of the maximum depth MD, the camming / translation of the elongate member 286 will serve to lock the firing mechanism 280 and prevent the launcher 200 from applying a force to the toy vehicle.

[0082] Turning now to Figure 16 and Figure 17In at least some embodiments, the locking assembly 282 can lock the launcher 200 into a particular position (e.g., launch positions PI, P2, P3, and P4) during the generation of the launch / propulsion force. Additionally or alternatively, the locking assembly 282 can work in conjunction with or in place of the force control assembly 281 to prevent the launcher 200 from generating a launch force until the launcher 200 is in a launch position (e.g., launch positions PI, P2, P3, and P4). As can be seen, the locking assembly 282 includes a pivotable arm 283 that is mounted on and pivotable about a shaft 2831 such that the distal and proximal ends of the pivotable arm 283 are laterally movable relative to the booster assemblies 290 and 291. Moreover, the distal end of the pivotable arm 283 is biased toward the booster assemblies 290 and 291 by a biasing member 284.

[0083] When the hammer assembly 287 is in the at-rest position 1600 (see Figure 16 ), the hammer 289 engages the distal end to overcome the bias of the biasing member 284 and hold the pivotable arm 283 in the disengaged position API, as shown in Figure 16 . In the position API, the proximal flange 2832 of the pivotable arm 283 is positioned substantially inside the base portion 260. Then, when the hammer 289 is moved away from the distal end of the pivotable arm 283 (an example of which is shown by the position 1700 in Figure 17 ), the biasing member 284 pushes the distal end of the pivotable arm 283 laterally inward, moving the pivotable arm 283 to the engaged position AP2. In the engaged position AP2, at least a portion of the proximal flange 2832 extends from outside the base portion 260. When the proximal flange 2832 extends from outside the base portion 260, it can, for example, engage a stop 175 included in the channel 174 of the tower 160 (see Figure 4B ). Engagement between the proximal flange 2832 and one of the stops 175 can lock the launcher 200 in a particular position relative to the toy track set 100.

[0084] In the depicted embodiment, the proximal flange 2832 engages one of the detents 175 only in response to movement of the hammer assembly 287 (e.g., to position 1700), which moves in response to the trigger 213 and / or movement of the trigger 213. Thus, in the depicted embodiment, the locking assembly 282 can temporarily lock the launcher 200 in response to trigger actuation only. Then, when the trigger 213 and / or the trigger 213 is released, the hammer assembly 287 will return to position 1600 due to biasing (e.g., of the trigger 213 and / or the trigger 213) and disengage the proximal flange 2832 from the detent 175, releasing the launcher 200 to move relative to the toy vehicle track set 100 (e.g., allowing the launcher 200 to move vertically). Thus, in general, the locking assembly 282 can ensure that the launcher 200 does not move during a toy vehicle launch. That is, if the launcher 200 is in a particular launch position (e.g., position PI, P2, P3, or P4) and a launch operation is initiated (e.g., by pulling one or both of the triggers 213 and 223), the locking assembly 282 can hold the launcher 200 in the particular launch position until the launch operation is complete (e.g., until a propelling force has been imparted to a toy vehicle). Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the locking assembly 282 can hold the launcher 200 in a non-launching position (e.g., an intermediate, non-launching position) in response to actuation of the trigger 213 and / or the trigger 223.

[0085] In general, other embodiments of the launcher 200 presented herein need not include the precise components of the locking assembly 282 and can utilize variations thereof in structure, arrangement, and / or operation to achieve such locking. For example, the locking assembly 282 need not be positioned to engage the rear outer strut 172 and can engage any portion of the toy vehicle track set 100. As another example, the locking assembly 282 need not engage the hammer 289 and can engage any other portion of the force control assembly 281.

[0086] Turning now to Figures 18-22 These figures depict the booster assembly 290, but are intended to represent both the booster assembly 290 and the booster assembly 291, as the booster assembly 290 is a mirror image of the booster assembly 291 in the depicted embodiment, and vice versa. That is, for brevity, Figures 18-22 The booster assembly 290 is shown, and any description thereof is to be understood as applying to the booster assembly 291 in an applicable manner (e.g., structural descriptions are to be understood as being mirrored). Figure 18 A top view of the booster assembly 290 is depicted, while Figures 19-22 A bottom view of the booster assembly 290 is depicted in different positions.

[0087] Generally, the booster assembly 290 includes a launch member 292, a vehicle engagement member 293, and a retention portion 294. The launch member 292 generally serves as the main body of the booster assembly 290 and includes a first resilient member 2921, a channel 2922, and a backer 2923. The first resilient member 2921 is configured to bias the launch member 292 to a rest position, and the backer 2923 is pivotable laterally relative to the rest of the launch member 292. The launch member 292 also includes or is coupled to an inward projection 295 with which the force control assembly 281 can interact to cause the booster assembly 290 to generate a specific amount of potential energy that can be converted into launch force.

[0088] The vehicle engagement member 293 is located within the channel 2922 of the launch member 292 and includes an extension 2931, a second resilient member 2932, and a retention cam 2933. The vehicle engagement member 293 is generally configured to translate within the channel 2922 such that the extension 2931, which extends vertically above the launch member 292 and the top cover 262 of the base portion 260, can interact with, e.g., apply launch / propulsion force to, a toy vehicle at rest against it. The second resilient member 2932 extends between the vehicle engagement member 293 and the distal end of the launch member 292. Thus, if the launch member 292 moves relative to the vehicle engagement member 293 (or vice versa), the second resilient member 2932 can generate potential energy that can be converted into launch force.

[0089] The retention portion 294 can be coupled to the launch member 292 but is pivotable thereon (e.g., freely pivotable laterally but otherwise fixed to the launch member 292). The retention portion 294 includes a third resilient member 2941 that is configured to bias the retention portion 294 toward the vehicle engagement member 293. The retention portion 294 also includes a shoulder 2942, a first prong 2943, and a second prong 2944, each of which can selectively engage the retention cam 2933 of the vehicle engagement member 293.

[0090] Figure 19The booster assembly 290 is shown in a disengaged position 1900. The booster assembly 290 is in the disengaged position 1900 when the launch mechanism 280 is disengaged, such as when the actuation element 285 of the force control assembly 281 is not in the notch 1604, and / or when the user does not actuate the trigger 213 and / or 223. In this position, the retention cam 2933 is not engaged with the shoulder 2942, the first prong 2943, or the second prong 2944 of the retention portion 294. However, the third resilient member 2941 pushes these features into the channel 2922, such that the retention cam 2933 can engage these components if it moves along the channel 2922 and / or if the channel allows the launch member 292 to move relative to the vehicle engagement member 293. Additionally, in the disengaged position 1900, the first resilient member 2921 and the second resilient member 2932 are in a rest state (e.g., not stretched).

[0091] In Figure 20 and Figure 21 the booster assembly 290 has stored energy that can be converted into a launch force. In other words, the booster assembly 290 is loaded: in a first loaded position 2000 in Figure 20 and in a second loaded position 2100 in Figure 21 In the first loaded position 2000, the retention cam 2933 is engaged with the shoulder 2942, and the launch member 292 has moved a first distance relative to the vehicle engagement member 293, thereby stretching the second resilient member 2932 by a first amount. In contrast, in the second loaded position 2100, the retention cam 2933 is engaged with the second prong 2944, and the launch member 292 has moved a second distance relative to the vehicle engagement member 293, stretching the second resilient member 2932 by a second amount that is greater than the first amount. Although not shown, in yet another position, the retention cam 2933 can engage the first prong 2943, and the launch member 292 can move relative to the vehicle engagement member 293 to stretch the second resilient member 2932 by a third amount that is greater than the first amount but less than the second amount.

[0092] Still referring to Figure 20 and Figure 21 but now at least in conjunction with Figures 6-17 in response to the trigger 213 and / or actuation of the trigger 213, the booster assembly 290 generally moves into the first loaded position 2000 or the second loaded position 2100. As discussed above, the trigger 213 and / or actuation of the trigger 213 causes the hammer assembly 287 to translate rearward by a particular amount. During this rearward translation, the latches 288 of the hammer assembly 287 can engage the inward protrusion 295 of the booster assembly 290 to pull the booster assembly 290 rearward with the hammer assembly 287.

[0093] At the start of this rearward translation, the entire booster assembly 290 can begin to translate rearward across the base portion 260. This movement can be resisted by the first elastic member 2921, which can begin to stretch in response to this movement. Eventually, the extension 2931 will reach the distal end of the channel formed in the top cover 262 of the base portion 260 (through which the extension 2931 extends to contact the toy vehicle), and thus will be unable to continue to move with the launch member 292 and the retaining portion 294. As a result, further rearward movement of the booster assembly 290 will cause the launch member 292 and the retaining portion 294 to move relative to the vehicle engagement member 293 and begin to stretch the second elastic member 2932. As the second elastic member 2932 stretches, the retaining cam 2933 of the vehicle engagement member 293 will sequentially move past the shoulder 2942, the first prong 2943, and the second prong 2944.

[0094] Due to the position of the third elastic member 2941, each of the shoulder 2942, the first prong 2943, and the second prong 2944 can act as a one-way stop and can hold the retaining cam 2933 against until the backer 2923 allows disengagement. As a result, the combination of the potential energy (e.g., tension) in the second elastic member 2932 and the potential energy (e.g., tension) in the first elastic member 2921 will carefully adjust the size of the force that the booster assembly 290 will generate if / when the force control assembly 281 (e.g., the hammer assembly 287) releases the booster assembly 290 to cause boosting. Thus, in the depicted embodiment, the launch mechanism 280 can generate at least four specific sizes of forces by: (1) providing no engagement between the retaining cam 2933 and the retaining portion 294; (2) engaging the retaining cam 2933 with the shoulder 2942; (3) engaging the retaining cam 2933 with the first prong 2943; (4) engaging the retaining cam 2933 with the second prong 2944, the forces increasing gradually from (1) to (4). However, if the launcher 200 is not positioned to unlock / activate the force control assembly 281 (e.g., in the launch positions PI, P2, P3, or P4), the booster assembly 290 can not be released to generate these forces (e.g., the latches 288 cannot disengage from the inward projections 295).

[0095] Figure 22The engaged release position 2200 is shown. As described above, the retention portion 294 can disengage from the vehicle engagement member 293 (e.g., to disengage the shoulder 2942, the first prong 2943, or the second prong 2944 from the retention cam 2933) when the biasing force created by the third resilient member 2941 is overcome. In some cases, the force created by the second resilient member 2932 and / or the first resilient member 2921 can be sufficient to overcome the biasing force created by the third resilient member 2941, particularly if the geometry of the vehicle engagement member 293 and / or the retention portion 294 facilitates such disengagement. Additionally or alternatively, the backing 2923 and / or the retention portion 294 can pivot to reduce the biasing force created by the third resilient member 2941. For example, the backing 2923 can move the third resilient member 2941 further away from the retention portion 294 and reduce its biasing force. Indeed, in some cases, the base portion 260 and / or the locking assembly 282 can be specifically designed to increase or reduce the amount of pressure on the backing 2923 and / or the retention portion 294. That is, the base portion 260 and / or the locking assembly 282 can control how / when the backing 2923 and / or the retention portion 294 pivots to increase or reduce the biasing force that the third resilient member 2941 exerts to the retention portion 294. For example, the pivot point of the locking assembly 282 can have an expanded width that creates a pressure point, and when a sufficient amount of the backing 2923 moves proximally past the pivot point, it can release or at least reduce the biasing force of the third resilient member 2941.

[0096] As a more specific example, and now referring to 23A, in the depicted embodiment, the bottom surface 2622 of the top cover 262 includes a wedge 2623 that can cause the retention portion 294 to move laterally inward into the engaged release position 2200, thereby causing the engagement release. The wedge 2623 is positioned to engage the distal end 2945 of the retention portion 294 as it moves forward (e.g., after the trigger release) and is angled to create a force that overcomes the biasing force of the third resilient member 2941. The wedge 2623 is also positioned between the booster assembly 290, 291 and a stop 2624 into which the booster assembly 290, 291 can move after the engagement release. In at least some embodiments, the stop 2624, or at least its impact surface 2625, is made from and / or coated with a soft material, such as rubber and / or silicone, which reduces noise and potential impact damage from repeated firing. The impact surface 2625 can also have features that help reduce noise and impact force, such as notches, serrations, etc.

[0097] Turning now to Figure 23B , another option for controlling the interaction between the force control assembly 281, the locking assembly 282, and / or the booster assemblies 290 and 291 is to specifically contour the cover of the base portion 260.Figure 23B A top view of the bottom cover 272 is depicted, which includes profile supports 278 that divide and define the booster channels 276. In some embodiments, the profile supports 278 can widen towards the front 201 of the launcher 200, forming a widened booster channel 276 in which the booster assemblies 290 and 291 can inflate to cause the engagement release 201 during movement of the booster assemblies 290 and 291 towards the front. However, in the depicted embodiment, the profile supports 278 extend in a manner that is substantially parallel to one another and to the top cover, while the wedge 2623 primarily causes the engagement release of the booster assemblies 290, 291.

[0098] In contrast, in the depicted embodiment, the profile supports 278 taper generally from a higher height to a lower height and move towards the back 202 of the launcher 200. This can allow the hammer assembly 287 to ride along an inclined path during its rearward movement, which can help ensure that the hammer assembly 287 stably engages the booster assemblies 290 and 291 while also remaining in alignment with the inclined lanes 264 and 266 included on the top surface 2621 of the top cover 262 of the base portion 260. The inclined lanes 264 and 266 can facilitate the toy vehicle automatically remaining in contact with the extensions 2931 of the vehicle engagement members 293 of the booster assemblies 290 and 291. In Figure 16 and Figure 17 As can be seen in

[0099] Turning now to Figures 24-28 , these figures depict at least a portion of the interactive stunt element 300 of the toy vehicle track set 100 with which a toy vehicle launched by the launcher 200 can interact. Figure 24 The interactive stunt element 300 is shown along with the top layer 150 of the toy vehicle track set 100 from the front 106 of the toy vehicle track set 100 but from the side of the interactive stunt element 300. This is because the interactive stunt element 300 generally faces the first lane 151 and the second lane 152 (also referred to as paths) of the top layer 150 when the interactive stunt element 300 is arranged in its home position 2400. Figure 25 The toy vehicle track set 100 is depicted from the second side 103 of the toy vehicle track set 100, which provides a rear view of the interactive stunt element 300. Figure 26 and Figure 27 The toy vehicle track set 100 is depicted from the perspective of the front 106 of the toy vehicle track set 100 but shows the interactive stunt element 300 during interaction. Figure 28 is a rear view (with the cover removed) of a portion of the interactive stunt element 300.

[0100] In Figures 24-26 It can be seen in that since the interactive stunt element 300 is generally facing the first lane 151 and the second lane 152 when in its original position 2400, the front of the interactive stunt element 300 is positioned in the path of a toy car launched along the first lane 151 or the second lane 152. In fact, in the depicted embodiment, the launcher 200 is specifically adjusted (e.g., based on the depth of the fourth notch 1604(4)) to launch a toy car into the interactive stunt element 300. The first lane 151 is specifically angled to launch a toy car launched by the launcher 200 (launched with a specific force applied at the launch position P4) toward the opening 304 included on the interactive stunt element 300. At the same time, the second lane 152 is specifically angled to launch a toy car launched by the launcher 200 (again launched with a specific force applied at the launch position P4) toward the actuation panel 302 included on the body 301 of the interactive stunt element 300.

[0101] A toy car entering the opening 304 can be captured within the interactive stunt element 300, while a toy car hitting the actuation panel 302 can fall through the funnel 155 onto the track 158. However, at least some actuation of the actuation panel 302 can cause the interactive stunt element 300 to complete an “interaction,” for example, by falling off the tower 180. Figure 26 The interactive stunt element 300 is shown in a tilted position 2600, where it begins an interaction. Figure 27 The interactive stunt element 300 is shown in a falling position 2700, where it is rotating while falling from the tower 180. Rotation can be driven when the base 310 of the interactive stunt element 300 engages a feature of the tower 180.

[0102] More specifically, and now turning to Figure 25In the depicted embodiment, interactive stunt element 300 includes a base 310 that substantially surrounds tower 180 and is movably engaged therewith. In general, second tower 180 includes an outer column 181 having a front face 182, a back face 183, and side faces 185. Base 310 generally extends to and is movably engaged with (e.g., via rollers) front face 182 and back face 183, while side faces 185 include features that drive the interaction and positioning of interactive stunt element 300. In particular, side faces 185 include channels 1851 bounded by smooth tracks 1853, and also include toothed tracks 1852, which in the depicted embodiment are positioned within one of smooth tracks 1853. Finally, near the top of tower 180, side faces 185 include alignment tracks 1854. Alignment tracks 1854 are generally configured to reposition interactive stunt element 300 to its original orientation when a user lifts interactive stunt element 300 back to its original position 2400.

[0103] Base 310 generally includes features that cooperate and / or interact with the features of tower 180. For example, as Figure 28 As best seen with the outer cover removed, base 310 extends around a guide channel 312 that is configured to receive outer column 181 (extending around front face 182 to back face 183) and also includes a handle 311, rollers 313, a gear 314, a mount 315, and a rotating gear 316. Rollers 313 are configured to engage smooth tracks 1853, front face 182, and / or back face 183 to guide movement of interactive stunt element 300 along tower 180. Meanwhile, gear 314 is configured to engage toothed tracks 1852 of tower 180 and can be connected to rotating gear 316, which is configured to rotate main body 301 of interactive stunt element 300 when rotated. Accordingly, rotating gear 316 can be located within and coupled to mount 315, which is coupled to main body 301 of interactive stunt element 300.

[0104] Mount 315 can support main body 301 for rotation relative to base 310, but can also stably support main body 301 in other ways. In some cases, this can mean that main body 301 is fixed to mount 315, which rotates within base 310. However, in other cases, main body 301 of interactive stunt element 300 can also move relative to base 310. For example, main body 301 can be tilted relative to base 310 and then ride with the base while rotating. In any case, mount 315 can also extend into channels 1851 to create further support for main body 301 during rotation.

[0105] The handle 311 generally extends from the main body and allows a user to easily pick up the interactive stunt element 300 to translate it along the tower 180 after an interaction (e.g., roll the interactive stunt element 300 along the tower 180). In some embodiments, the handle 311 can be oriented such that grasping the handle and pulling the interactive stunt element 300 upward via the handle causes rotation of the handle 311. This rotation can, but need not, act as a clutch for the gear 314, causing the gear 314 to move out of alignment with the toothed track 1852. Additionally or alternatively, the mount 315 and / or the rotating gear 316 can support an alignment protrusion 318. The alignment protrusion 318 is configured to help the main body 301 of the interactive stunt element 300 return to its home position 2400. More specifically, the mount 315 and the alignment protrusion 318 are shaped such that when the base 310 approaches the top of the tower 180, the alignment protrusion 318 will be forced into contact with the alignment track 1854 and will be held in such a position. With the alignment protrusion 318 so positioned, the main body 301 of the interactive stunt element 300 will automatically right itself by rotating into its home position 2400 (in its original orientation).

[0106] While the toy vehicle launcher presented herein, and the track sets including the toy vehicle launcher and portions thereof, have been shown and described in detail, with reference to specific embodiments thereof, it is not intended that the application be limited to the details shown. Rather, it is believed that the disclosed embodiments are best understood with reference to the claims appended hereto. In addition, various features of one embodiment can be incorporated into another embodiment. That is, it is believed that the above disclosure covers many different inventions, all of which are intended to be encompassed by the claims appended hereto. While each of the applications has been disclosed in its preferred form, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications, obvious or otherwise, can be made without departing from the scope and range of equivalents of the applications. The subject matter of the applications includes all novel and nonobvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions and / or properties disclosed herein. The claims should therefore be broadly construed, consistent with the scope and range of equivalents of the subject matter recited therein. Accordingly, the claims are not to be limited by the disclosure presented herein. It is intended that the claims be interpreted to include all such combinations and subcombinations.

[0107] It should also be understood that the toy vehicle launcher and track sets comprising the same devices or portions thereof described herein can be made of any suitable material or combination of materials, such as plastic, foamed plastic, wood, cardboard, pressed paper, metal, soft natural or synthetic materials, including but not limited to cotton, elastomers, polyesters, plastics, rubber, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof. Suitable plastics can include high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), and the like. Suitable foamed plastics can include foamed or extruded polystyrene, foamed or extruded polypropylene, EVA foam, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof.

[0108] Additionally, it should be understood that terms such as "left," "right," "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "side," "height," "length," "width," "upper," "lower," "interior," "exterior," "inner," "outer," and the like as can be used herein, simply describe points of reference and do not limit the present application to any particular orientation or configuration. Moreover, the term "exemplary" as used herein means serving as an example, instance or illustration. Any embodiment described herein as exemplary should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The various embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and are not intended to limit the scope of the application.

[0109] Finally, the terms "comprises" and variations thereof as used herein are not intended to exclude the presence of elements other than those listed in a claim. Where the term "comprises" is used as an open-ended label of the objects or processes discussed herein, it's respective foregoing use (e.g., "comprising", "comprise", "comprises") should also be interpreted in the same way. Similarly, where a method, process or process step is described herein as comprising a certain step or steps, it should be understood that this disclosure also contemplates any other steps that can be included in the method, process or process step. Also, the term "about" as used herein when referring to a quantitative value means that the value is within a reasonable range of the recited value, as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. That is, deviations from the recited value that are within a reasonable range should be accepted as being within the scope of the recited value, as one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that such deviations from the recited value are unavoidable due to measurement inaccuracies, etc. The same applies to the terms "equivalent," "approximate," and "around," as well as "about."

Claims

1. A toy vehicle track set comprising: one or more vehicle paths; and a toy vehicle launcher movable to a plurality of launch positions disposed along the one or more vehicle paths, wherein the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a launch force to a toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is disposed in one of the plurality of launch positions, and the toy vehicle launcher is configured to prevent the launch force from being applied to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is moved between the plurality of launch positions, wherein the toy vehicle launcher comprises a force control assembly that automatically controls a launch force of the toy vehicle launcher as a function of different interactions with a control band at different ones of the plurality of launch positions such that the launch force has different magnitudes at different ones of the plurality of launch positions, wherein the toy vehicle track set comprises a tower along which the toy vehicle launcher is vertically movable, the tower comprising a plurality of grooves for defining the plurality of launch positions, wherein the tower comprises a notch on the control band associated with each of the plurality of grooves that defines one of the plurality of launch positions.

2. The toy vehicle track set of claim 1, wherein the plurality of grooves further define one or more non-launch positions, and the tower comprises a stop associated with each of the plurality of grooves that defines one of the plurality of launch positions.

3. The toy vehicle track set of claim 2, wherein the toy vehicle launcher comprises a locking assembly that prevents the toy vehicle launcher from moving, wherein each stop is configured to engage the locking assembly when the toy vehicle launcher applies the launch force to the toy vehicle.

4. The toy vehicle track set of claim 1, wherein each notch is configured to activate the force control assembly such that the toy vehicle launcher is able to apply the launch force to the toy vehicle.

5. The toy vehicle track set of claim 1, wherein the toy vehicle launcher comprises one or more triggers actuatable at or between the plurality of launch positions, wherein an actuation of a trigger initiated when the toy vehicle is between the plurality of launch positions does not cause the toy vehicle to generate the launch force.

6. A toy vehicle track set comprising: one or more vehicle paths; a toy vehicle launcher movable to at least two positions disposed along the one or more vehicle paths, wherein at different ones of the at least two positions, the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply different launch forces of different magnitudes to a toy vehicle on which the toy vehicle launcher acts; a tower along which the toy vehicle launcher is vertically movable, and the tower defines the different positions to be vertically spaced along a height of the tower.

7. The toy vehicle track set of claim 6, wherein the different positions are vertically spaced between a base and a top of the toy vehicle track set, and the different magnitudes increase as the toy vehicle launcher moves from the base of the toy vehicle track set to the top of the toy vehicle track set. ​ 8. The toy vehicle track set of claim 7, wherein the tower includes a control strip having notches of different depths arranged along the height of the tower, and notch depth is configured to control the magnitude of the different launch forces at the different locations.

9. The toy vehicle track set of claim 8, wherein the toy vehicle launcher includes a force control assembly that mechanically controls the magnitude of a particular launch force applied by the toy vehicle launcher to the toy vehicle when a portion of the force control assembly moves into a particular notch in the control strip.

10. A toy vehicle track set, comprising: a toy vehicle launcher movable to at least two positions disposed along one or more vehicle paths, wherein at different ones of the at least two positions, the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply different launch forces of different magnitudes to a toy vehicle on which the toy vehicle launcher acts, the different launch forces determined by physical characteristics of different positions of the toy vehicle launcher, the one or more vehicle paths including: a first track path having a track length, wherein the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a first launch force of a first magnitude to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is aligned with the first track path, the first launch force sufficient to allow the toy vehicle to traverse the track length; and a second track path including a stunt, wherein the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a second launch force of a second magnitude to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is aligned with the second track path, the second launch force sufficient to allow the toy vehicle to complete the stunt.

11. The toy vehicle track set of claim 10, wherein the stunt is a loop or an interaction with an interactive stunt element.

12. A launcher for a toy vehicle, the launcher comprising: a handle portion including one or more triggers; a kickstand portion configured to movably couple the launcher to a toy vehicle track or toy vehicle track set; a base configured to support a toy vehicle; and a launch mechanism configured to control a force applied to the toy vehicle on the base in response to selective actuation of at least one of the one or more triggers, wherein the launch mechanism includes: a lock assembly that prevents movement of the launcher when the force is applied to the toy vehicle; and a force control assembly that limits a maximum magnitude of the force applied to the toy vehicle, the maximum magnitude variable based on a position of the launcher.

13. The launcher of claim 12, wherein the base includes: a first lane for a first toy vehicle; and a second lane for a second toy vehicle.

14. The launcher of claim 13, wherein the launch mechanism includes: a first booster assembly that interacts with the first toy vehicle in the first lane; and a second booster assembly that interacts with the second toy vehicle in the second lane; the first and second booster assemblies actuatable based on (a) a state of the launch mechanism. ​ ​ ​ ​ and (b) actuation of the one or more triggers.

15. The launcher of claim 14, wherein the first booster assembly and the second booster assembly are operable jointly or separately.

16. A toy vehicle track set, comprising: one or more vehicle paths; a toy vehicle launcher movable to a plurality of launch positions disposed along the one or more vehicle paths, wherein the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a launch force to a toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is disposed in one of the plurality of launch positions, and the toy vehicle launcher is configured to prevent the launch force from being applied to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is moved between the plurality of launch positions; and a tower along which the toy vehicle launcher is vertically movable, the tower comprising a plurality of grooves to define the plurality of launch positions and one or more non-launch positions, and the tower comprising a stop associated with each of the plurality of grooves defining one of the plurality of launch positions, wherein the toy vehicle launcher comprises a locking assembly, and each stop is configured to engage the locking assembly to prevent the toy vehicle launcher from moving during application of the launch force when the toy vehicle launcher applies the launch force to the toy vehicle.

17. A toy vehicle track set, comprising: one or more vehicle paths; a toy vehicle launcher movable to a plurality of launch positions disposed along the one or more vehicle paths, wherein the toy vehicle launcher is configured to apply a launch force to a toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is disposed in one of the plurality of launch positions, and the toy vehicle launcher is configured to prevent the launch force from being applied to the toy vehicle when the toy vehicle launcher is moved between the plurality of launch positions; and a tower along which the toy vehicle launcher is vertically movable, the tower comprising a plurality of grooves to define the plurality of launch positions and a control band having notches associated with each of the plurality of grooves, wherein the toy vehicle launcher comprises a force control assembly, each notch is configured to activate the force control assembly such that the toy vehicle launcher is able to apply the launch force to the toy vehicle.

18. The toy vehicle track set of claim 17, wherein the toy vehicle launcher comprises one or more triggers actuatable at or between the plurality of launch positions, wherein actuation of a trigger initiated when the toy vehicle is between the plurality of launch positions does not cause the toy vehicle to generate the launch force.

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