Toy vehicle carrier

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a toy vehicle carrier. The toy vehicle carrier includes a head, a body coupled to the head, a base coupled to the body, and an accessory coupled to the base. The head is configured to capture a toy vehicle in a closed configuration of the head and discharge the toy vehicle in an open configuration of the head. The body is configured to rotate relative to the base to transition the toy vehicle carrier between a first configuration and a second configuration. The toy vehicle carrier further includes a wheel coupled to the base. The wheel includes a protrusion and is configured to rotate about an axis to movably engage a cam surface of the accessory, thereby causing the accessory to rotate relative to the base.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application generally relates to toys, and more particularly to a toy vehicle carrier configured to receive, store, and discharge toy vehicles. Background Art

[0002] Toys provide entertainment for different users (such as children). For example, toys can include various features for children to play with. An example of a toy that can entertain children is a toy vehicle, which can simulate the appearance, movement, and / or feel of real-world vehicles. New toys with new features, such as toys that children can use to interact with existing toy vehicles, can provide additional play value and additional entertainment. Therefore, innovative improvements to toys are continuously desired. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A toy vehicle carrier is presented herein. According to an exemplary embodiment, the toy vehicle carrier includes a body and a head coupled to the body, the body including an interior. The head defines an opening and a passage, and the head is configured to transition between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the head captures a toy vehicle via the opening and directs the toy vehicle into the interior of the body via the passage. In the second configuration, the head is configured to discharge the toy vehicle via the passage and the opening.

[0004] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following drawings and detailed description. All such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are included within this specification and are within the scope of the claimed subject matter. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0005] The toy vehicle carrier 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 marked 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 vehicle carrier. In the drawings, like reference numerals represent corresponding parts in different figures.

[0006] Figure 1a and Figure 1b shows a schematic diagram of a toy vehicle carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application;

[0007] Figures 2a - 2c shows a perspective side view of the toy vehicle carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application in the first configuration;

[0008] Figure 3a and Figure 3b shows Figures 2a - 2c a perspective side view of the toy vehicle carrier transitioning between the first configuration and the second configuration;

[0009] Figure 4 shows Figures 2a - 2c a perspective side view of the toy vehicle carrier of when in a second configuration;

[0010] Figure 5 shows Figures 2a - 2c a side view of the head of the toy vehicle carrier of ;

[0011] Figure 6 shows Figure 5 a perspective side view of the head of when in a closed configuration;

[0012] Figure 7 shows Figure 5 a perspective side view of the head of when in an open configuration;

[0013] Figure 8 shows Figure 5 a perspective front view of the head of when in an open configuration;

[0014] Figure 9 shows Figure 5 a perspective front view of the head of when transitioning between a closed configuration and an open configuration;

[0015] Figure 10a and Figure 10b shows Figures 2a - 2c a perspective rear view of the body and base of the toy vehicle carrier of ;

[0016] Figure 11a and 11b shows Figures 2a - 2c a perspective rear view of the toy vehicle carrier of ; and

[0017] Figure 12 shows Figures 2a - 2c a close-up perspective rear view of the base of the toy vehicle carrier of . Detailed Description

[0018] Generally speaking, this article presents a toy vehicle carrier. The toy vehicle carrier includes a head, a body coupled to the head, and a base coupled to the body. The head is configured to transition between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, the head is configured to capture a toy vehicle via an opening and direct the toy vehicle into the interior of the body via a passageway. In the open configuration, the head is configured to eject the toy vehicle via a track that guides the toy vehicle into the passageway and through the opening. The body is configured to rotate relative to the base to transition the toy vehicle carrier between a first configuration and a second configuration. Wheels having protrusions are coupled to the base. In each of the first and second configurations of the toy vehicle carrier, the wheels are configured to rotate about an axis to move the toy vehicle along a surface. Additionally, in the second configuration, the rotation of the wheels about the axis causes the protrusions to movably engage an accessory coupled to the base, thereby causing the accessory to rotate relative to the base. Thus, the different configurations associated with the toy vehicle carrier can provide different appearances and interactive features to entertain users (e.g., children). Additionally, the mobility of the different toy vehicle carrier components can further entertain users. In fact, the interactive engagement between the toy vehicle carrier and the toy vehicle can provide diverse playability and improve the user experience.

[0019] Figure 1a A schematic illustration of an embodiment of a toy vehicle carrier 100 is shown. The toy vehicle carrier 100 includes a head 102 and a body 104 that are coupled to each other. The toy vehicle carrier 100 is configured to store or accommodate a toy vehicle 106 via the head 102 and / or via the body 104. By way of example, the head 102 includes an opening 108. The toy vehicle 106 can pass through the opening 108 to enter the head 102 and into the toy vehicle carrier. The head 102 includes rollers 110 that are configured to assist in capturing the toy vehicle 106 for inclusion into the head 102. For example, as further discussed herein, the rollers 110 include paddles or vanes that are configured to engage the toy vehicle 106, and the paddles are configured to move to drive the toy vehicle 106 into the opening 108. Additionally, the head 102 defines a passageway 112 that is connected to the opening 108, and the passageway 112 is configured to direct the toy vehicle 106 from the opening 108 into the interior 114 of the body 104. The body 104 can then hold and store the toy vehicle 106 in the interior 114.

[0020] For example, the interior 114 of the toy vehicle carrier 100 can facilitate the easy transportation of the toy vehicle 106 through the toy vehicle carrier 100. In fact, the interior 114 can be large enough to hold multiple toy vehicles 106 and enable each toy vehicle 106 located within the interior 114 to be transported simultaneously. Additionally or alternatively, the body 104 includes a receiving portion 116 that is configured to store and hold the toy vehicle 106 without allowing the toy vehicle 106 to pass through the opening 108. To this end, the receiving portion 116 can be unconnected to the channel 112 and, instead, can be easily accessible by the user to enable the toy vehicle 106 to be positioned therein. The toy vehicle carrier 100 is capable of transporting each toy vehicle 106 stored within the interior 114 and within the receiving portion 116 to facilitate the transportation of multiple toy vehicles 106.

[0021] The toy vehicle carrier 100 can also be configured to eject or discharge the toy vehicle 106. As an example, the head 102 includes a track 118 that extends into the channel 112. The track 118 is configured to receive the toy vehicle 106 and guide the toy vehicle 106 (e.g., by gravity) into the channel 112, through the opening 108, and out of the head 102. Additionally or alternatively, the body 104 includes an outlet 120 that is connected to the interior 114 of the body 104. The outlet 120 is configured to directly discharge the toy vehicle 106 from the interior 114 of the toy vehicle carrier 100. In some embodiments, the outlet 120 is large enough to discharge multiple toy vehicles 106 from the interior 114 to facilitate access to the multiple toy vehicles 106 previously stored within the interior 114 (e.g., after the toy vehicles 106 have been transported to a desired location).

[0022] In some embodiments, the head 102 is configured to transition between a closed configuration (e.g., an incorporation configuration) and an open configuration (e.g., a discharge configuration) to selectively enable the incorporation or discharge of the toy vehicle 106. For example, in the closed configuration of the head 102, the track 118 does not extend into the channel 112, thereby preventing the toy vehicle 106 from moving along the track 118 and toward the opening 108. Additionally, the closed configuration positions the roller 110 within the channel 112, further preventing the toy vehicle 106 from moving along the channel 112, e.g., from the interior 114 of the body 104 toward the opening 108 (e.g., via the paddle). Thus, the closed configuration can maintain the storage of the toy vehicle 106 within the toy vehicle carrier 100. In the open configuration of the head 102, the track 118 extends into the channel 112 to enable the toy vehicle 106 to move along the track 118 and toward the opening 108. Additionally, in the open configuration of the head 102, the roller 110 is positioned outside of the channel 112. In this way, the toy vehicle 106 can move along the channel 112 and toward the opening 108 without interference from the roller 110. Additionally, positioning the roller 110 outside of the channel 112 can prevent the roller 110 (e.g., the paddle) from incorporating any other toy vehicle 106 into the toy vehicle carrier 100.

[0023] The head 102 can be manually transitioned between the closed configuration and the open configuration (e.g., by a manually applied force). For example, the head 102 includes an actuator 122. Actuation of the actuator 122 can move the roller 110 out of the channel 112 and move the track 118 to extend into the channel 112 to transition the head 102 to the open configuration. Additionally or alternatively, actuation of the actuator 122 can move the roller 110 into the channel 112 and move the track 118 out of the channel 112 to transition the head 102 to the closed configuration. Thus, a user can use the actuator 122 to selectively place the toy vehicle carrier 110 in the open configuration or the closed configuration. In some embodiments, the actuator 122 is a lever that can be actuated by rotation. In additional or alternative embodiments, the actuator 122 can be a knob, a button, a dial, or any other suitable feature configured to transition the head 102 between the closed configuration and the open configuration. Additionally, although the present disclosure primarily discusses using a single actuator 122 to transition the head 102 between the closed configuration and the open configuration (e.g., a single actuator 122 configured to cause movement of the roller 110 and the track 118), in other embodiments multiple actuators 122 can be used to transition the head 102 between the closed configuration and the open configuration (e.g., separate actuators 122 that cause movement of the roller 110 and the track 118).

[0024] Figure 1bAnother schematic view of a toy vehicle carrier 100 having a head 102 and a body 104 coupled to each other is shown. The toy vehicle carrier 100 further includes a base 150 coupled to the body 104. The body 104 and the head 102 coupled to the body 104 are configured to rotate about the base 150 to transition the toy vehicle carrier 100 between a first configuration and a second configuration. For example, rotation of the body 104 away from the base 150 (e.g., to increase the angle between the body 104 and the base 150) transitions the toy vehicle carrier 100 toward the second configuration, and rotation of the body 104 toward the base 150 (e.g., to decrease the angle between the body 104 and the base 150) transitions the toy vehicle carrier 100 toward the first configuration. In additional or alternative embodiments, the body 104 may be moved relative to the base 150 in any other suitable manner (e.g., translated) to transition the toy vehicle carrier 100 between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0025] The toy vehicle carrier 100 may have a different appearance in the first configuration and the second configuration. Additionally, the toy vehicle carrier 100 may have different functions in the different configurations. For example, the head 102, the body 104, and the base 150 may be generally aligned along a plane in the first configuration. Thus, in the first configuration, each of the head 102, the body 104, and the base 150 may engage a surface and enable the head 102 to capture a toy vehicle 106 positioned on the surface. As an example, the head 102, the body 104, and / or the base 150 are coupled to wheels to facilitate movement along the surface in the first configuration and to facilitate capturing the toy vehicle 106 via the head 102. In the second configuration, the head 102 and the body 104 may no longer engage the surface, and thus, the head 102 may not be able to capture a toy vehicle 106 positioned on the surface in the second configuration. Alternatively, as further discussed herein, the second configuration may facilitate discharging the toy vehicle 106 (e.g., through the head 102, through the body 104), such as onto a surface that engages the base 150.

[0026] The toy vehicle carrier 100 includes an extension 152 that is configured to facilitate the transition of the toy vehicle carrier 100 between the first configuration and the second configuration. For example, the extension 152 is coupled to the body 104 and is configured to rotate about the body 104. The extension 152 can be used as a lever to facilitate rotation of the body 104 away from the base 150. In other words, the extension 152 can be used as a rod that enables a user to provide a sufficient amount of force / torque (e.g., by pushing on the extension 152) to drive the rotation of the body 104 away from the base 150.

[0027] The extension member 152 can also be used to hold the toy vehicle carrier 100 in a first configuration and / or a second configuration. For example, the extension member 152 transitions between an extended configuration and a compact configuration. In the extended configuration, the extension member 152 extends generally away from the body 104 (e.g., the end of the extension member 152 is a first threshold distance from the body 104, such as within 1 - 5 centimeters (cm)). In the compact configuration, the extension member 152 extends generally alongside the body 104 (e.g., the end of the extension member 152 is a second threshold distance from the body 104, such as more than 10 - 20 cm). The extended configuration of the extension member 152 prevents the body 104 from rotating towards the base 150, while the compact configuration of the extension member 152 prevents the body 104 from rotating away from the base 150. Thus, to transition the toy vehicle carrier 100 to the second configuration, the extension member 152 can first be transitioned to the extended configuration, and then the extension member 152 in the extended configuration can be used as a lever to rotate the body 104 away from the base 150. To transition the toy vehicle carrier 100 to the first configuration, the extension member 152 can first be transitioned to the compact configuration to enable the body 104 to rotate towards the base 150 (e.g., by gravity and / or manually applied force). Accordingly, the extension member 152 can be used to selectively place the toy vehicle carrier 100 in a desired configuration. Although the present disclosure primarily discusses rotating the extension member 152 to transition between the compact and extended configurations, the extension member 152 can be moved in any other suitable manner (e.g., along a linear direction) to facilitate the transition of the toy vehicle carrier 100 between the first and second configurations.

[0028] The toy vehicle carrier 100 also includes an appendage 154 coupled to the base 150. The appendage 154 is configured to move relative to the base 150, such as rotate. In some embodiments, the movement of the base 150 along a surface can cause the appendage 154 to move relative to the base 150. For example, a wheel with a protrusion is coupled to the base 150. The wheel is configured to rotate about an axis to drive or facilitate the movement of the base 150 (e.g., and the remainder of the toy vehicle carrier 100) along the surface. Additionally, the rotation of the wheel causes the protrusion to rotate about the axis and movably engage the appendage 154, thereby driving the movement of the appendage 154 relative to the base 150. That is, the movement of the protrusion through the rotation of the wheel causes the protrusion to adjust its engagement with and disengagement from the appendage 154. For example, the engagement of the protrusion with the appendage 154 causes the appendage 154 to move in a first direction, while the disengagement of the protrusion from the appendage 154 causes the appendage 154 to move in a second direction (e.g., by gravity). Thus, the rotation of the wheel causes a corresponding movement of the appendage 154. For example, the movement of the appendage 154 due to the movement of the base 150 (e.g., the wheel) along the surface can provide an appearance that the appendage 154 is driving the movement of the toy vehicle carrier 100, such as simulating a gait or walking motion.

[0029] The toy vehicle carrier 100 further includes a control system 156 and a sound effect module 158, which are communicatively coupled to each other. The sound effect module 158 is configured to output various sound effects, and the control system 156 is configured to cause the sound effect module 158 to output sound effects. The control system 156 includes a memory 160 and a processor 162 (e.g., processing circuitry). The memory 160 (e.g., magnetic hard disk drive, solid state drive, semiconductor storage device, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) includes any suitable memory (e.g., volatile or non-volatile memory) configured to store data / information, such as software or logic. For example, the memory 160 includes a temporary or non-temporary computer-readable medium storing instructions executable by the processor 162. The processor 162 (e.g., microprocessor, digital signal processor, baseband signal processor) is configured to execute the instructions stored on the memory 160 to perform various operations, such as causing the sound effect module 158 to output sound effects.

[0030] In some embodiments, the control system 156 (e.g., the processor 162) is configured to cause the sound effect module 158 to output sound effects based on the configuration of the toy vehicle carrier 100. For example, the control system 156 is configured to cause the sound effect module 158 to output a first sound effect when the toy vehicle carrier 100 is in a first configuration (e.g., when the toy vehicle carrier 100 in the first configuration moves along a surface), and the control system 156 is configured to cause the sound effect module 158 to output a second sound effect when the toy vehicle carrier 100 is in a second configuration (e.g., when the toy vehicle carrier 100 in the second configuration moves along a surface). Providing different sound effects in different configurations of the toy vehicle carrier 100 can further enhance the entertainment provided by the toy vehicle carrier 100. For example, the sound effects can correspond to the respective appearances of the toy vehicle carrier 100 when in different configurations, thereby providing a more realistic presentation of the toy vehicle carrier 100.

[0031] To this end, the control system 156 includes a sensor or switch 164, which is operable to cause the processor 162 to output a specific control signal to cause the sound effect module 158 to output a corresponding sound effect. That is, in the first configuration of the toy vehicle carrier 100, the sensor / switch 164 can cause the processor 162 to output a first signal, which causes the sound effect module 158 to output a first sound effect. In the second configuration of the toy vehicle carrier 100, the sensor / switch 164 can cause the processor 162 to output a second signal, which causes the sound effect module 158 to output a second sound effect. For example, different configurations of the toy vehicle carrier 100 can also adjust the configuration or position of the sensor / switch 164 to cause the sensor / switch 164 to change the operation of the processor 162.

[0032] In additional or alternative embodiments, the control system 156 is configured to cause the sound effect module 158 to output additional sound effects. For example, the control system 156 is configured to cause the sound effect module 158 to output different sound effects when the head 102 and / or the extension 152 are in different configurations. As another example, the control system 156 is configured to cause the sound effect module 158 to output sound effects based on the movement of the toy vehicle 106 relative to the toy vehicle carrier 100 (e.g., the toy vehicle 106 being captured at the head 102, the toy vehicle 106 being ejected from the head 102, the toy vehicle 106 being ejected from the body 104, the toy vehicle 106 moving through the body 104, etc.). As yet another example, the control system 156 is configured to cause the sound effect module 158 to output sound effects during a transition of the toy vehicle carrier 100 or any component of the toy vehicle carrier 100 between different configurations. The output of such sound effects can further enhance the realistic and entertaining performance of the toy vehicle carrier 100.

[0033] Figure 2a A perspective view of an embodiment of a toy vehicle carrier 200 is shown having a head 202 and a body 204 coupled to each other, and a base 206 coupled to the body 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 204 includes a plurality of receiving portions 208, each receiving portion 208 being configured to hold a respective toy vehicle 210. For example, each receiving portion 208 includes a wall 212 that cooperatively defines a space in which the toy vehicle 210 can be positioned, and the wall 212 surrounds the toy vehicle 210 positioned within the space to prevent the toy vehicle 210 from moving out of the receiving portion 208, thereby holding the toy vehicle 210 within the receiving portion 208 (e.g., during movement of the toy vehicle carrier 200). Thus, the receiving portions 208 can enable the transportation of multiple toy vehicles 210 by the toy vehicle carrier 200. However, each receiving portion 208 is exposed to the external environment surrounding the toy vehicle carrier 200. Accordingly, each receiving portion 208 is accessible to a user such that the user can insert and / or remove the toy vehicle 210 into / from one of the receiving portions 208. For example, the user can selectively remove a first toy vehicle 210 from a first receiving portion 208 while positioning a second toy vehicle 210 in a second receiving portion 208 to vary the toy vehicles 210 held by the toy vehicle carrier 200.

[0034] In addition, the toy vehicle carrier 200 includes a plurality of wheels to assist the toy vehicle carrier 200 in moving along a surface (e.g., a floor, a table). For example, the toy vehicle carrier 200 includes body wheels 214 attached to the body 204 by respective limbs or arms 216, and base wheels 218 attached to the base 206. The body wheels 214 and the base wheels 218 are configured to rotate to assist the toy vehicle carrier 200 in moving along the surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the arms 216 extend along the head 202 and the body 204 such that the body wheels 214 extend beside the head 202.

[0035] Reference Figure 2a , in the illustrated embodiment, the toy vehicle carrier 200 is in a first configuration 220 (e.g., a folded configuration, a prone configuration). In the first configuration 220, the head 202, the body 204, and the base 206 can extend along each other generally near a common axis or plane. To this end, in the first configuration 220, each of the head 202, the body 204, and the base 206 can engage or be adjacent to the surface. As an example, in the first configuration 220, each of the body wheels 214 and the base wheels 218 can engage the surface and rotate near the surface to drive or assist the toy vehicle carrier 200 in moving along the surface.

[0036] In addition, the toy vehicle carrier 200 includes an accessory 222 coupled to the base 206 and configured to rotate relative to the base 206. In the first configuration 220 of the toy vehicle carrier 200, the accessory 222 is in a retracted configuration 223. In the retracted configuration 223, the accessory 222 generally extends away from the base wheels 218 and the surface that the base wheels 218 can engage. For example, as described herein, the base wheels 218 include protrusions that can movably engage the accessory 222 extending beside or near the base wheels 218. However, in the retracted configuration 223, the accessory 222 is offset from the base wheels 218 and away from the protrusions. Thus, in the first configuration 220 of the toy vehicle carrier 200, movement of the accessory 222 relative to the base 206 via the protrusions is prevented.

[0037] The toy vehicle carrier 200 also includes an extension member 224 coupled to the main body 204. In a first configuration 220 of the toy vehicle carrier 200, the extension member 224 extends along the main body 204 in a generally compact configuration 225. For example, in the compact configuration 225, the end 226 of the extension member 224 can be positioned adjacent to or engaged with the main body 204. The compact configuration 225 of the extension member 224 can prevent the main body 204 from rotating away from the base 206 (e.g., via a stopper or linkage system). Thus, the compact configuration 225 of the extension member 224 can hold the toy vehicle carrier 200 in the first configuration 220. As described herein, the extension member 224 can rotate relative to the main body 204 to disengage the extension member 224 from the compact configuration 225 and enable the main body 204 to rotate away from the base 206. For example, rotation of the extension member 224 can enable the toy vehicle carrier 200 to transition from the first configuration 220 to a second configuration. The extension member 224 also includes an additional receiving portion 228, which can be configured to receive and hold an additional toy vehicle 210. In this way, the extension member 224 also increases the load-carrying capacity of the toy vehicle carrier 200 for holding the toy vehicle 210.

[0038] The toy vehicle carrier 200 also includes a handle or grip 232 extending from the main body 204. The handle 232 can assist a user in moving the toy vehicle carrier 200. For example, a user can grasp the handle 232 and apply a force to the handle 232 to drive the toy vehicle carrier 200 along a surface. The handle 232 can also assist the user in more easily carrying the toy vehicle carrier 200. To accommodate the positioning of the handle 232, the extension member 224 includes an opening 234 through which the handle 232 can extend when the extension member 224 is in the compact configuration 225.

[0039] Figure 2b A perspective view of the toy vehicle carrier 200 in the first configuration 220 is shown, where the head 202 is positioned adjacent to a surface on which the toy vehicle 210 can be placed. Thus, in the first configuration 220 of the toy vehicle carrier 200, the head 202 is capable of capturing the toy vehicle 210. For example, the head 202 includes an opening 250 that is configured to receive the toy vehicle 210. When the toy vehicle carrier 200 is in the first configuration 220, the head 202 can be in a closed configuration 252, and in the closed configuration 252, the opening 250 is connected to a channel 254 that extends into the main body 204. Thus, in the closed configuration 252, the toy vehicle 210 can move from the opening 250 through the channel 254 to the main body 204. In this way, the head 202 can enable the toy vehicle 210 to be incorporated for storage in the main body 204.

[0040] In addition, the head 202 includes a roller 256 that, in the closed configuration 252 of the head 202, is positioned within a channel 254 (e.g., adjacent the opening 250). The roller 256 is configured to drive the toy vehicle 210 to move in an incorporation direction 258 into the head 202 (e.g., toward the body 204). By way of example, the roller 256 includes paddles or vanes 260 that are configured to move (e.g., rotate, revolve) about an axis 262 in a rotational direction 264 as the toy vehicle carrier 200 moves in a travel direction 266 that is opposite to the incorporation direction 258. By way of example, movement of the toy vehicle carrier 200 in the travel direction 266 can drive movement of a linkage system (e.g., gears) connected to the paddles 260, thereby causing the paddles 260 to move in the rotational direction 264. The paddles 260 are configured to engage the toy vehicle 210 extending into the opening 250, and rotation of the paddles 260 in the rotational direction 264 drives movement of the toy vehicle 210 along the channel 254 and toward the body 204.

[0041] The illustrated head 202 includes a cover 268 and a head base 270 that are coupled to each other. The cover 268 and the head base 270 generally cross each other to define an opening 250 and a passage 254 between the cover 268 and the head base 270. The cover 268 and the head base 270 are configured to rotate relative to each other to transition the head 202 between a closed configuration 252 and an open configuration. For example, the cover 268 and the head base 270 can move toward each other to transition the head 202 to the closed configuration 252. To this end, when in the closed configuration 252, the opening 250 and the passage 254 cooperatively defined by the cover 268 and the head base 270 are relatively small. In some embodiments, in the closed configuration 252 of the head 202, the movement of the toy vehicle carrier 200 (e.g., in the travel direction 266) can drive some movement of the cover 268 relative to the head base 270. For example, in the closed configuration 252, the paddle 260 can movably engage the cover 268. That is, the rotation of the paddle 260 can drive some movement of the cover 268 relative to the head base 270. For example, the paddle 260 can alternate between engaging and disengaging from the cover 268. The engagement of the rotating paddle 260 with the cover 268 can drive the cover 268 to move away from the head base 270, while the disengagement of the paddle 260 from the cover 268 can cause the cover 268 to move toward the head base 270 (e.g., by gravity). In this way, the cover 268 can alternate between moving toward the head base 270 and moving away from the head base 270. This movement of the cover 268 relative to the head base 270 can provide a realistic and entertaining appearance of the head 202. For example, the cover 268 and the head base 270 can form the appearance of a chin, and the movement of the cover 268 relative to the head base 270 can provide the appearance of the head 202 performing eating or chewing motions to depict the situation where the head 202 is swallowing the toy vehicle 210.

[0042] Figure 2c A side perspective view of the toy vehicle carrier 200 in a first configuration 220 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the toy vehicle 210 is located within the interior 300 of the chassis 302 of the main body 204. For example, the passage 254 of the head 202 is connected to the interior 300 of the chassis 302. The movement of the toy vehicle 210 along the insertion direction 258 (driven by the movement of the paddle 260 of the roller 256) can cause the toy vehicle 210 to move through the passage 254 and into the interior 300. The toy vehicle carrier 200 can store and hold the toy vehicle 210 within the interior 300. The interior 300 can be large enough to hold multiple toy vehicles 210. Thus, the interior 300 can enable the head 202 to continuously insert multiple toy vehicles 210 in sequence (e.g., without removing the toy vehicles 210 stored in the interior 300 between the insertion of additional toy vehicles 210).

[0043] Figure 3aIllustrated is a toy vehicle carrier 200 when transitioning from a first configuration 220 to a second configuration. For example, the extension member 224 can rotate away from the body 204 to transition the extension member 224 from a compact configuration 225 and enable the body 204 to move away from the base 206. The rotation of the extension member 224 can also drive the movement of the accessory member 222. For example, the rotation of the extension member 224 can drive the accessory member 222 towards the base wheel 218 (e.g., via a linkage system).

[0044] Figure 3b Illustrated is a toy vehicle carrier 200 when transitioning from a first configuration 220 to a second configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the extension member 224 is in an extended configuration 350, in which the extension member 224 extends generally away from the body 204. Additionally, the accessory member 222 extends to at least partially pass over a respective one of the base wheels 218. However, the head 202, the body 204, and the base 206 remain generally extended along a common axis or plane. The extension member 224 can be used as a lever to move the body 204 and the head 202 coupled to the body 204 away from the base 206. For example, the toy vehicle carrier 200 can include a stop or wall that blocks further rotational movement of the extension member 224 away from the body 204. Thus, a force applied to the extension member 224 (e.g., to the end 226) in a direction 352 that intersects the extension member 224 (e.g., towards the surface on which the toy vehicle carrier 200 is positioned) can cause the extension member 224 to drive the body 204 away from the base 206, thereby transitioning the toy vehicle carrier 200 to the second configuration.

[0045] Figure 4Shows a toy vehicle carrier 200 in a second configuration 400 (e.g., deployed configuration, standing configuration). In the second configuration 400, the base wheels 218 can remain engaged with the surface on which the toy vehicle carrier 200 is positioned, but the body 204 extends away from the base 206 such that the body wheels 214 are offset from that surface. In fact, the body 204 can be positioned relatively more upright in the second configuration 400 than in the first configuration 220. Thus, gravity can urge the body 204 toward the base 206 and cause the toy vehicle carrier 200 to transition toward the first configuration 220. However, in the second configuration 400 of the toy vehicle carrier 200, the extended configuration 350 of the extension 224 can prevent or limit the rotation of the body 204 toward the base 206, thereby holding the toy vehicle carrier 200 in the second configuration 400. In some embodiments, the toy vehicle carrier 200 further includes a piston 402 connected to the base 206 and also connected to the body 204 (e.g., connected to the chassis 302). The piston 402 can support the orientation of the body 204 relative to the base 206 and further hold the toy vehicle carrier 200 in the second configuration 400. For example, the piston 402 (e.g., pneumatic piston, hydraulic piston) can exert a resistance against the movement of the body 204 relative to the base 206 and thus support the orientation of the body 204 relative to the base 206.

[0046] In the second configuration 400, in the deployed configuration 404 of the accessory 222, the accessory 222 extends beside the base wheels 218. Thus, during movement of the toy vehicle carrier 200, the protrusions of the base wheels 218 can movably engage the accessory 222 to cause the accessory 222 to rotate relative to the base 206 when the accessory 222 is in the deployed configuration 404. Additionally, in the second configuration 400, gravity can urge the toy vehicle 210 positioned within the receiving portion 208 toward the base 206 (e.g., toward the surface engaged with the base 206). However, the wall 212 can prevent the toy vehicle 210 from moving out of the receiving portion 208. In other words, in the second configuration 400, the wall 212 holds the toy vehicle 210 in position within the receiving portion 208.

[0047] Furthermore, in the illustrated second configuration 400, the arm 216 is positioned such that the body wheels 214 extend away from the head 202. That is, in the second configuration 400, the body wheels 214 are not positioned adjacent to the head 202. As an example, gravity can urge the arm 216 to move toward the base 206 and away from the head 202, thereby moving the body wheels 214 to be offset from the head 202.

[0048] It should be noted that the rotation of the extension member 224 towards the main body 204 can contribute to the transformation of the toy vehicle carrier 200 from the second configuration 400 to the first configuration 220. For example, the rotation of the extension member 224 towards the main body 204 to transform the extension member 224 into the compact configuration 225 can enable the main body 204 to rotate towards the base 206. After the extension member 224 has been transformed into the compact configuration 225, gravity and / or manually applied force can overcome the resistance exerted by the piston 402 to drive the main body 204 to rotate towards the base 206, thereby transforming the toy vehicle carrier 200 into the first configuration 220. In other words, gravity and / or manually applied force cause the piston 402 to move to move the main body 204 towards the base 206. However, the resistance exerted by the piston 402 can slow down the rotation of the main body 204 towards the base 206. For example, the piston 402 can moderate the movement of the main body 204 towards the base 206 to avoid undesired collisions between the toy vehicle carrier 200 (e.g., the head 202, the main body 204) and the surface on which the toy vehicle carrier 200 is positioned and / or between the main body 204 and the base 206. Therefore, the piston 402 can contribute to maintaining the structural integrity of the toy vehicle carrier 200.

[0049] The rotation of the extension member 224 towards the main body 204 also drives the movement of the accessory member 222 away from the base wheel 218. Therefore, a full rotation of the extension member 224 towards the main body 204 causes the accessory member 222 to deviate from the base wheel 218. Thereby, the movement of the accessory member 222 is no longer driven by the base wheel 218 (e.g., the protrusion).

[0050] Figure 5 A side view of the head 202 of the toy vehicle carrier 200 is shown. To visualize the components located in the interior 450 of the cover 268, Figure 5The cover 268 is not shown. As an example, the toy vehicle carrier 200 includes a control system 452 (e.g., memory, processor, sensors, switches, circuitry), a sound effect module 454 (e.g., sound emitter, speaker), and a power source 456 located within the interior 450. The control system 452 is configured to cause the sound effect module 454 to output different sound effects. For example, the control system 452 is configured to cause the sound effect module 454 to output a first sound effect in a first configuration 220 of the toy vehicle carrier 200, and the control system 452 is configured to cause the sound effect module 454 to output a second sound effect different from the first sound effect in a second configuration 400 of the toy vehicle carrier 200. The control system 452 may also cause the sound effect module 454 to output additional sound effects, such as different sound effects in a closed configuration 252 and an open configuration of the head 202, different sound effects in a compact configuration 225 and an extended configuration 350 of the extension 224, sound effects during a transition of any component of the toy vehicle carrier 200 between corresponding configurations, sound effects during the toy vehicle 210 passing through the toy vehicle carrier 200, sound effects during the toy vehicle carrier 200 moving along a surface, and so on. The sound effects can provide additional interactive entertainment for the user by depicting realistic or engaging sound effects.

[0051] The power source 456 provides power to enable the control system 452 and / or the sound effect module 454 to operate. For example, the control system 452 can use the power provided by the power source 456 to operate the sound effect module 454, and the sound effect module 454 can use the power provided by the power source 456 to output sound effects. In some embodiments, the power source 456 (e.g., battery and / or capacitor) is configured to store power. In additional or alternative embodiments, the power source 456 can be configured to obtain energy (e.g., solar energy, mechanical energy) from the surrounding environment of the toy vehicle carrier 200 for delivery to operate the control system 452 and / or the sound effect module 454.

[0052] Although in the illustrated embodiment, the control system 452, the sound effect module 454, and the power source 456 are described as being located at the head 202, in additional or alternative embodiments, the control system 452, the sound effect module 454, and / or the power source 456 can be located at any other suitable location, such as at the body 204 and / or the base 206. In fact, the control system 452, the sound effect module 454, and the power source 456 can be distributed at different locations to enable the toy vehicle carrier 200 to operate to output different sound effects. For example, multiple sound effect modules 454 can be located at different positions adjacent to corresponding components to depict the sound effects actually generated by these components (e.g., a first sound effect module 454 configured to output chewing sounds is located adjacent to the head 202, and a second sound effect module 454 configured to output driving sounds is located adjacent to the base wheel 218). Thus, the toy vehicle carrier 200 can be embodied to output sound effects in a more realistic manner.

[0053] Figure 6 A perspective side view of the head 202 in the closed configuration 252 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the head 202 includes a track 500 that extends toward the channel 254 and is configured to receive the toy vehicle 210. For example, the head 202 includes an inlet opening 502 adjacent to the body 204, and the track 500 extends into the inlet opening 502 and toward the channel 254. Thus, the track 500 enables the toy vehicle 210 to move along the track 500 and enter the inlet opening 502 (e.g., due to the action of gravity). However, as described herein, the closed configuration 252 of the head 202 prevents the toy vehicle 210 from passing through the channel 254 and moving out of the head 202 via the opening 250. For example, in the closed configuration 252 of the head 202, the cover 268 and the head base 270 extend closer to each other to reduce the size of the opening 250 and the channel 254, and the rollers 256 are located within the channel 254 to prevent the toy vehicle 210 from moving through the channel 254 toward the opening 250. Additionally or alternatively, the head 202 includes a stop 504 that extends into the track 500 in the closed configuration 252 of the head 202, and the stop 504 abuts against the toy vehicle 210 to prevent the toy vehicle 210 from moving along the track 500 and into the channel 254.

[0054] The head 202 includes an actuator 506 that can be actuated to adjust the configuration of the head 202. The illustrated actuator 506 is a rod that is rotatably coupled to the head base 270 and a set of gears 508. The actuator 506 can be rotated to drive the corresponding rotation of the gears 508. The rotation of the gears 508 then causes the various components of the head 202 to move (e.g., causes the cover 268 and the head base 270 to move relative to each other) to adjust the head 202 between the closed configuration 252 and the open configuration. In additional or alternative embodiments, the actuator 506 can include any other suitable actuatable feature that is configured to drive the movement of the various components of the head 202 (e.g., via the gears 508 or another suitable linkage system) to adjust the head 202 between the closed configuration 252 and the open configuration.

[0055] Figure 7A perspective side view of the head 202 in the open configuration 550 is shown. For example, the actuator 506 is actuated (e.g., by a manually applied force) to rotate towards the body 204. Actuation of the actuator 506 drives the rotation of the gear 508 to move the cover 268 and the head base 270 away from each other, thereby increasing the size of the opening 250 and the channel 254. Additionally, rotation of the gear 508 moves the roller 256 out of the channel 254 and retracts the stopper 504 from the track 500. Thus, in the open configuration 550 of the head 202, the toy vehicle 210 can move along the track 500, enter the channel 254 via the inlet opening 502, and pass through the opening 250 to exit from the head 202.

[0056] The actuator 506 can also be actuated to transition the head 202 from the open configuration 550 to the closed configuration 252. For example, rotation of the actuator 506 away from the body 204 causes the gear 508 to rotate to move the cover 268 and the head base 270 towards each other, to move the roller 256 into the channel 254, and to extend the stopper 504 into the track 500. Thus, the user can selectively position the head 202 in the closed configuration 252 or the open configuration 550 using the actuator 506.

[0057] Figure 8 A perspective front view of the head 202 in the open configuration 550 is shown, where the cover 268 and the head base 270 are relatively far apart from each other, and the roller 256 is moved out of the channel 254 to enable the toy vehicle 210 to move through the channel 254. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, the track 500 includes a plurality of segments, where the end segment 600 of the track 500 extends into the inlet opening 502. In the open configuration 550 of the head 202, the end segment 600 is oriented to extend into the channel 254. For example, the head 202 includes a plate 602 that defines a portion of the channel 254. The plate 602 enables the toy vehicle 210 to move through the channel 254 (e.g., towards the opening 250, towards the body 204) and guides the movement. In the open configuration 550 of the head 202, the end segment 600 generally extends towards and is aligned with the plate 602. Thus, in the open configuration 550 of the head 202, the track 500 can guide (e.g., by gravity) the toy vehicle 210 to the plate 602 and into the channel 254 via the end segment 600.

[0058] Figure 9A perspective front view of the head 202 during transition between the closed configuration 252 and the open configuration 550 is shown, where the lid 268 and the head base 270 are spaced apart (e.g., by actuation of the actuator 506). Thereby, the movement of the toy vehicle 210 through the track 500 through the channel 254 and towards the opening 250 can be at least partially blocked. For example, the end segment 600 of the track 500 is disposed outside the channel 254 and / or extends away from the channel 254. For example, the end segment 600 can be oriented (e.g., rotated) such that the end segment 600 does not extend towards the plate 602 or is not substantially aligned with the plate 602. In certain embodiments, actuation of the actuator 506 can rotate the end segment 600, and the end segment 600 can extend towards the roller 256 during the transition of the head 202 between the closed configuration 252 and the open configuration 550. To this end, the end segment 600 can prevent the toy vehicle 210 from moving from the track 500 into the channel 254 and moving outside the open configuration 550 of the head 202.

[0059] Figure 10a A perspective rear view of the body 204 and the base 206 of the toy vehicle carrier 200 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the body 204 includes a lid 650 attached to the chassis 302 (e.g., between the base wheels 218 and the appendage 222), and the lid 650 extends through and covers the exit of the chassis 302. For example, the exit is configured to expose the interior 300 of the chassis 302 of the body 204 to the surrounding environment, but the lid 650 blocks the exposure of the interior 300 at the exit. Thus, the lid 650 prevents the toy vehicle 210 from moving out of the interior 300 through the exit.

[0060] Figure 10b A perspective rear view of the body 204 and the base 206 of the toy vehicle carrier 200 is shown, where the lid 650 is moved and no longer covers the exit 700 of the chassis 302. Thus, the exit 700 exposes the interior 300 of the chassis 302 to the surrounding environment. Thus, the toy vehicle 210 located in the interior 300 can move out of the interior 300 through the exit 700 (e.g., by gravity). For example, the exit 700 is located near the base 206, and when the toy vehicle carrier 200 is in the second configuration 400, the exit 700 can face the surface on which the base 206 is positioned to guide the toy vehicle 210 away from the head 202 and outside the interior 300.

[0061] In some embodiments, the movement of the lid 650 is controlled by a switch 702. As an example, the lid 650 is fixed to the chassis 302 by a latch to extend over the outlet 700, and actuation of the switch 702 releases the lid 650 from the latch to move the lid 650 (e.g., rotate around the chassis 302) and expose the outlet 700. Although the switch 702 is shown as a button in the illustrated embodiment, any suitable feature (e.g., a pin, a touch latch, a knob, etc.) can be used to move the lid 650. In some embodiments, the lid 650 remains attached to the chassis 302 when positioned to expose the outlet 700. In additional or alternative embodiments, the lid 650 is detachable from the chassis 302 to expose the outlet 700. In any case, the user can selectively move the lid 650 relative to the outlet 700 to allow or prevent the toy vehicle 210 from exiting the interior 300 via the outlet 700.

[0062] Figure 11a A perspective rear view of the toy vehicle carrier 200 in the second configuration 400 is shown. The toy vehicle carrier 200 includes a main body track 750 (e.g., coupled to the chassis 302) extending along the main body 204 and an extension track 752 defined by the extension member 224. In the second configuration 400 of the toy vehicle carrier 200, the main body track 750 is aligned with the extension track 752. The toy vehicle 210 can travel along the main body track 750 and the extension track 752, e.g., from the main body 204 near the head 202 toward the extension member 224. The extension track 752 forms an outlet 754 at the end 226 of the extension member 224 to discharge the toy vehicle 210 from the toy vehicle carrier 200.

[0063] In some embodiments, each of the main body track 750 and the extension track 752 includes a first lane 756 and a second lane 758, which can be formed by a partition or wall 760. Each lane 756, 758 is configured to receive a separate toy vehicle 210. For example, a pair of toy vehicles 210 can simultaneously move side by side in separate lanes 756, 758 along the main body track 750 and the extension track 752. This interaction between the toy vehicle 210 and the main body track 750 and the extension track 752 can increase the entertainment provided by the toy vehicle carrier 200, e.g., by creating a race-like interaction between different toy vehicles 210.

[0064] The extended track 752 further includes doors or gates 762 located at each of the lanes 756, 758, respectively. Each door 762 is configured to move to create an opening through the extended track 752. The size of such an opening is sufficient for the toy vehicle 210 to move therethrough. For example, a toy vehicle 210 traveling along the extended track 752 can fall through the opening without being directed towards the exit 754. A track actuator 764 located on the extended track 752 is configured to move the door 762. For example, each door 762 can be held in an extended position towards the exit 754 by a corresponding latch, and movement of the track actuator 764 can release one of the corresponding latches to cause the corresponding door 762 to move (e.g., by gravity) and expose the corresponding opening. In fact, as further discussed herein, a particular movement of the track actuator 764 can cause one of the doors 762 in the lanes 756, 758 to move, but not the other door 762. In this way, the track actuator 764 can selectively and individually activate the doors 762.

[0065] Figure 11b A perspective rear view of the toy vehicle carrier 200 is shown, with more details provided regarding the extended track 752. In the illustrated embodiment, the door 762 of the first lane 756 is moved to create an opening 800 at the lane 756 in the extended track 752. However, the door 762 of the second lane 758 remains in a position extending towards the exit 754. As an example, the track actuator 764 is moved such that the door 762 of the first lane 756 moves, but not the door 762 of the second lane 758.

[0066] For example, movement (e.g., rotation) of the track actuator 764 into the first lane 756 in a first direction 802 causes the door 762 of the first lane 756 to move, but not the door 762 of the second lane 758. A toy vehicle 210 moving through the second lane 758 can drive the track actuator 764 to move in the first direction 802. For example, the track actuator 764 includes a first cam surface 804 that extends into the second lane 758 in an unactuated configuration (e.g., where the track actuator 764 is not in contact with any toy vehicle 210). Movement of the toy vehicle 210 through the second lane 758 at the extended track 752 (e.g., along the door 762 of the second lane 758) can cause the toy vehicle 210 to contact the first cam surface 804 and apply a force that causes the first cam surface 804 to move in the first direction 802. Thereby, movement of the toy vehicle 210 along the extended track 752 at the second lane 758 causes the door 762 at the first lane 756 to move. However, the contact between the toy vehicle 210 and the first cam surface 804 may not interfere with the movement of the toy vehicle 210 along the second lane 758. Thus, the toy vehicle 210 at the second lane 758 can continue to travel along the extended track 752 towards the exit 754.

[0067] Similarly, the movement of the track actuator 764 into the second lane 758 in the second direction 806 can cause the door 762 of the second lane 758 to move without causing the door 762 of the first lane 756 to move. As an example, the track actuator 764 includes a second cam surface 808 that extends into the first lane 756 in an unactuated configuration, and the movement of the toy vehicle 210 through the first lane 756 at the extended track 752 (e.g., along the door 762 of the first lane 756) can cause the toy vehicle 210 to contact the second cam surface 808 and apply a force that causes the track actuator 764 to move in the second direction 806. That is, the movement of the toy vehicle 210 along the extended track 752 at the first lane 756 causes the door 762 at the second lane 758 to move. The toy vehicle 210 located in the first lane 756 can then continue to travel along the extended track 752 toward the exit 754.

[0068] In this way, in the case where the toy vehicles 210 pass side by side through the lanes 756, 758, one of the toy vehicles 210 can contact and actuate the track actuator 764 and continue to move toward the exit 754, while the toy vehicle 210 that does not contact the track actuator 764 can fall through the opening formed by the movement of the door 762 caused by the actuation of the track actuator 764. For example, the toy vehicle 210 located in the front and capable of traveling along the extended track 752 can contact the track actuator 764 first. In this way, different movements of the toy vehicle 210 relative to the extended track 752 (e.g., along the extended track 752, through the extended track 752 via the opening) can further enhance the race-like characteristics of the main track 750 and the extended track 752 to increase the entertainment provided by the toy vehicle carrier 200.

[0069] Figure 12 A perspective rear view of the base 206 of the toy vehicle carrier 200 in the first configuration 220 of the toy vehicle carrier 200 is shown. In particular, Figure 12Shows an interface between one of the base wheels 218 and one of the appendages 222 extending above the base wheels 218. As an example, the base wheel 218 located farthest (e.g., most rearward) from the head 202 can be configured to engage the appendage 222. The base wheel 218 includes a protrusion 850 that extends laterally outward from the toy vehicle carrier 200 to enable the protrusion 850 to engage the appendage 222. During movement of the toy vehicle carrier 200, the base wheel 218 is configured to rotate about a rotational axis 852. Rotation of the base wheel 218 about the rotational axis 852 causes the protrusion 850 to revolve about the rotational axis 852. Revolution of the protrusion 850 can adjust the distance between the protrusion 850 and the appendage 222. As an example, the protrusion 850 can alternate between moving toward and away from the appendage 222 during revolution about the rotational axis 852. Accordingly, the protrusion 850 can movably engage the appendage 222 to drive a corresponding movement of the appendage 222.

[0070] For example, the protrusion 850 is configured to movably engage a cam surface 854 of the appendage 222. In particular, revolution of the protrusion 850 about the rotational axis 852 causes each protrusion 850 to engage the cam surface 854 and drive the appendage 222 to rotate toward the body 204, and disengage from the cam surface 854 and enable the appendage 222 to rotate away from the body 204 (e.g., by gravity). In this way, due to rotation of the base wheel 218, the appendage 222 can alternate between rotating toward the body 204 and rotating away from the body 204, such that the protrusion 850 movably engages the cam surface 854. As described herein, this movement of the appendage 222 can provide the appearance of a gait or walking motion to enhance the realistic depiction of the appendage 222 driven movement of the toy vehicle carrier 200.

[0071] The illustrated base wheel 218 includes two protrusions 850 that are spaced apart at opposite ends of the base wheel 218. That is, the protrusions 850 are circumferentially offset 180 degrees from each other. In this way, the protrusions 850 alternately engage the cam surface 854 to drive movement of the appendage 222. However, in other embodiments, any suitable number of protrusions 850 (e.g., one protrusion 850, three or more protrusions 850) can be present and positioned in any suitable manner (e.g., distributed evenly or irregularly around the base wheel 218) to movably engage the appendage 222 and cause a desired movement of the appendage 222.

[0072] Although the toy vehicle carrier presented herein has been shown and described in detail and with reference to its specific embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown, as it will be apparent that various modifications and structural changes can be made therein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure and within the scope and ambit of the equivalents of the claims. Additionally, the various features of one embodiment can be incorporated into another embodiment. That is, it is believed that the foregoing disclosure encompasses a number of different embodiments having independent utility. Although each of these embodiments is disclosed in a preferred form, the specific embodiments disclosed and illustrated herein should not be considered limiting as there may be many variations. The subject matter of the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various elements, features, functions, and / or characteristics disclosed herein. Accordingly, the appended claims should be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure described in the following claims.

[0073] It should also be understood that the toy vehicle carrier or portions thereof described herein can be made of any suitable material or combination of materials, such as plastics, foams, woods, cardboard, pressed paper, metals, soft natural or synthetic materials, including but not limited to cotton, elastomers, polyesters, plastics, rubbers, their derivatives, 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), etc. Suitable foams can include foamed or extruded polystyrene, foamed or extruded polypropylene, EVA foam, their derivatives, and combinations thereof.

[0074] Furthermore, it should be understood that terms that may be used herein, such as "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", "side", "height", "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "inner", "outer", "inside", "outside", etc., merely describe reference points and do not limit the present 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 an example should not be construed as a preferred or advantageous embodiment, but rather as an example or illustration of a possible embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] In addition, as used herein, the term "comprising" and its derivatives (e.g., "comprises" and the like) should not be construed as being exclusive, that is, these terms should not be interpreted to exclude the possibility that the object described and defined may include further elements, steps, etc. Similarly, when any description refers to "a" or "first" element or its equivalent, such disclosure should be understood to include the combination of one or more such elements, without requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. Also, as used herein, the term "about" and its cognates (e.g., "approximately" and the like) should be understood to indicate very close to the value accompanied by the aforementioned term. That is, a deviation within a reasonable range from the exact value should be accepted, as those skilled in the art will understand that such deviation from the indicated value is inevitable due to reasons such as inaccurate measurement. This also applies to the terms "substantially", "around", and "essentially". For example, the term "about" may represent a tolerance of plus or minus 0.002 inches, 0.001 inches, or up to 0.005 inches. This also applies to the terms "substantially", "around", and "essentially". 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).

[0076] Finally, the technology proposed and claimed herein is cited and applied to physical objects and specific examples of a practical nature, which have significantly improved the technical field and are thus not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. Additionally, if any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] [function]..." or "step for [performing] [function]...", then such elements shall be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, such elements shall not be construed in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

Claims

1. A toy vehicle carrier, characterized in that, Comprising: A main body, including an interior; A head coupled to the main body, the head defining an opening and a passage, wherein the head is configured to capture a toy vehicle through the opening and guide the toy vehicle through the passage toward the interior of the main body; A base, coupled to the main body, wherein the main body is configured to pivot relative to the base about a first axis; and Main body wheels, coupled to the main body and configured to rotate about a second axis parallel to the first axis to assist the main body in moving along a surface, wherein the main body is configured to pivot relative to the base about the first axis to lift the main body wheels away from the surface.

2. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 1, characterized in that, The head includes rollers configured to engage the toy vehicle and rotate about a third axis to guide the toy vehicle toward the interior of the main body.

3. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 2, characterized in that, Further comprising: An actuator, wherein the rollers are disposed in the passage in a first configuration of the head, and the actuator is configured to transition the head from the first configuration to a second configuration and move the rollers out of the passage to avoid contacting the toy vehicle in the second configuration.

4. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 3, characterized in that, The head includes a track, the track including segments that extend into the passage in the second configuration to guide the toy vehicle toward the opening into the passage, and the segments are located outside the passage in the first configuration.

5. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 3, characterized in that, The head includes a cover and a head base that cooperatively define the opening and the passage, the actuator being configured to rotate the cover and the head base toward each other to transition the head to the first configuration, and the actuator being configured to rotate the cover and the head base away from each other to transition the head to the second configuration.

6. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 1, characterized in that Including base wheels coupled to the base, wherein the base wheels are configured to remain in contact with the surface when the main body pivots relative to the base about the first axis to lift the main body wheels away from the surface.

7. A toy vehicle carrier, characterized in that, Comprising: A head configured to capture and discharge a toy vehicle; A main body, coupled to the head and configured to store the toy vehicle captured through the head; And A base coupled to the main body, wherein the main body is configured to rotate relative to the base to transition the toy vehicle carrier between a first configuration and a second configuration, the main body being configured to rotate away from the base to lift the head relative to the base and transition the toy vehicle carrier to the second configuration, and the main body being configured to rotate toward the base to lower the head relative to the base to transition the toy vehicle carrier to the first configuration.

8. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 7, wherein, Further comprising: Base wheels, coupled to the base and configured to rotate to assist the base in moving along a surface.

9. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 8, wherein, Further comprising: An accessory rotatably coupled to the base, the accessory including a cam surface, wherein the base wheels include protrusions, and rotation of the base wheels causes the protrusions to movably engage the cam surface of the accessory to cause the accessory to rotate relative to the base.

10. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 7, wherein Further comprising: A piston, connected to the body and the base, wherein the piston is configured to support the body relative to the base to slow down the rotational movement of the body relative to the base in at least one rotational direction.

11. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 7, characterized in that, The body is configured to rotate towards the base and reduce the angle between the body and the base to transform the toy vehicle carrier into the first configuration, and the body is configured to rotate away from the base and increase the angle between the body and the base to transform the toy vehicle carrier into the second configuration.

12. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 11, characterized in that, Further comprising: An extension member, rotatably connected to the body, wherein the extension member is configured to rotate relative to the body to transform between a compact configuration and an extended configuration, the extension member is configured to prevent the body from rotating away from the base in the compact configuration, and the extension member is configured to prevent the body from rotating towards the base in the extended configuration.

13. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 12, wherein, The extension member extends beside the body in the compact configuration, and the extension member extends away from the body in the extended configuration.

14. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 7, characterized in that, Further comprising: A controller and a sound effect module, wherein the controller is configured to cause the sound effect module to output a first sound effect when the toy vehicle carrier is in the first configuration, and the controller is configured to cause the sound effect module to output a second sound effect different from the first sound effect when the toy vehicle carrier is in the second configuration.

15. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 7, wherein, The head is connected to the first end of the body, the base is connected to the second end of the body opposite to the first end, and the body includes an outlet at the second end, the outlet being configured to discharge the toy vehicle away from the body and out of the toy vehicle carrier.

16. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 7, characterized in that, Comprising: A body wheel, configured to engage a surface and assist the toy vehicle carrier in moving along the surface in the first configuration of the toy vehicle carrier; And An arm, connecting the body wheel to the body, wherein the body is configured to rotate away from the base to move the arm away from the surface to transform the toy vehicle carrier into the second configuration and disengage the body wheel from the surface in the second configuration.

17. A toy vehicle carrier, characterized in that, Comprising: A body, including an interior configured to store a toy vehicle; A base connected to the body, wherein the body is configured to move relative to the base to transform the toy vehicle carrier between a first configuration and a second configuration; and A head configured to capture the toy vehicle, wherein, in the first configuration, the body, the base, and the head are at least partially aligned along a common plane such that the body, the base, and the head are configured to engage a surface, and in the second configuration, the base extends along a plane different from the plane in which the body and the head extend such that the base is configured to engage the surface while the body and the head are configured to extend away from the surface.

18. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 17, wherein Comprising: An accessory, connected to the base and configured to move relative to the base; And A base wheel is coupled to the base and includes a protrusion, wherein the base wheel is configured to rotate about an axis such that the protrusion movably engages the attachment member and moves the attachment member relative to the base, wherein the attachment member has a cam surface, and the base wheel is configured to rotate about the axis such that the protrusion engages the cam surface of the attachment member, thereby rotating the attachment member relative to the base.

19. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 17, wherein, Comprising: An attachment member coupled to the base and configured to move relative to the base; And A base wheel coupled to the base and including a protrusion, wherein the base wheel is configured to rotate about an axis such that the protrusion movably engages the attachment member and moves the attachment member relative to the base, wherein the movement of the main body relative to the base that transitions the toy vehicle carrier to the second configuration positions the attachment member next to the base wheel such that the protrusion movably engages the attachment member, and the movement of the main body relative to the base that transitions the toy vehicle carrier to the first configuration moves the attachment member away from the base wheel to prevent the protrusion from movably engaging the attachment member.

20. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 19, characterized in that, Further comprising: An extension member coupled to the main body, wherein the extension member is configured to rotate relative to the main body to permit and prevent movement of the main body relative to the base to transition the toy vehicle carrier between the first and second configurations, rotation of the extension member away from the main body drives movement of the attachment member toward the base wheel, and rotation of the extension member toward the main body drives movement of the attachment member away from the base wheel.

21. A toy vehicle carrier, characterized in that, Comprising: A main body including an interior configured to store a toy vehicle, wherein the main body includes a first track configured to receive the toy vehicle; A base coupled to the main body, wherein the main body is configured to move relative to the base to transition the toy vehicle carrier between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein in the first configuration, the base extends along the main body, and in the second configuration, the main body extends away from the base; and An extension member coupled to the main body and configured to rotate relative to the main body, wherein the extension member includes a second track configured to receive the toy vehicle, the extension member extends along the main body in the first configuration of the toy vehicle carrier, and the extension member extends away from the main body in the second configuration of the toy vehicle carrier to align the first track of the main body with the second track of the extension member.

22. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 21, wherein, The main body includes features configured to release the toy vehicle along the first track toward the second track in the second configuration of the toy vehicle carrier.

23. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 21, wherein, Further comprising: A switch extending from the first track of the main body; And A lid, which is configured to prevent one or more toy vehicles from moving outside the interior of the main body, wherein the switch is configured to actuate the lid to move the lid and expose the interior of the main body to release the one or more toy vehicles from the interior of the main body.

24. The toy vehicle carrier according to claim 21, wherein, The second track includes: A door, which is configured to transition between a first position and a second position, wherein the door covers an opening formed through the second track in the first position, and the door exposes the opening formed through the second track in the second position; and An actuator, which is configured to move the door from the first position to the second position in response to actuation of the actuator, wherein the movement of the toy vehicle along the second track is arranged to contact the actuator to cause the actuation of the actuator.

Images