Toy vehicle

Abstract

A toy vehicle includes a vehicle body, first, second, and third axles connected to the vehicle body, and three pairs of wheels connected to the first, second, or third axles, respectively. The toy vehicle also includes a support configured to be connected to an additional toy vehicle. The body of the toy vehicle is tilted toward a first side such that the first axle rotates in a first direction and both the second axle and the third axle rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present application relates generally to toys, and in particular, to one or more toy vehicles having a unique design. Background Art

[0002] Toys provide entertainment for different users, such as children. For example, a toy may include various features that a child can play with. An example toy that can entertain a child is a toy vehicle that can simulate the look, movement, and / or feel of a real-world vehicle. New toys with new features, such as toy vehicles with unique designs and / or appearances, can provide increased play value and provide additional entertainment. Therefore, innovative toy advancements are constantly desired. Summary of the invention

[0003] A toy vehicle is presented herein. According to an exemplary embodiment, the toy vehicle includes a body, a first axle, a second axle, and a third axle connected to the body, a first wheel and a second wheel defining a first pair of wheels connected to the first axle, a third wheel and a fourth wheel defining a second pair of wheels connected to the second axle, a fifth wheel and a sixth wheel defining a third pair of wheels connected to the third axle, and a support configured to be connected to an additional toy vehicle. The first wheel, the third wheel, and the fifth wheel are positioned on a first side of the body, and the second wheel, the fourth wheel, and the sixth wheel are positioned on a second side of the body. Tilting the body to the first side causes the first wheel, the third wheel, and the fifth wheel to tilt toward a center plane bisecting the body, and tilting the body to the second side causes the second wheel, the fourth wheel, and the sixth wheel to tilt toward the center plane.

[0004] According to another exemplary embodiment, the toy vehicle includes a body, three axles connected to the body, three pairs of wheels each connected to a corresponding one of the three axles, and a support configured to be connected to an additional toy vehicle. The toy vehicle and the additional toy vehicle have the same width.

[0005] The present invention also provides a toy vehicle toy set. According to an exemplary embodiment, the toy vehicle toy set includes a first toy vehicle having a first plurality of wheels and a second toy vehicle having a second plurality of wheels. The number of the first plurality of wheels is greater than the number of the second plurality of wheels, and the second toy vehicle is configured to be connected to the first toy vehicle. The first toy vehicle and the second toy vehicle have the same width.

[0006] Other systems, methods, features and advantages will be or will become apparent to one skilled in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. All such additional systems, methods, features and advantages are included within this description and are within the scope of the claimed subject matter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The toy vehicle toy set presented herein may be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. Unless the dimensions of the elements of the drawings are specifically noted and described herein, it should be understood that the elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and emphasis is placed on illustrating the principles of the toy vehicle toy set. In the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

[0008] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a toy vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application is shown;

[0009] Figure 2A shows a side perspective view of a toy vehicle in an extended configuration according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application;

[0010] Figure 2B The exemplary embodiment according to the present application is shown Figure 2A A side perspective view of a toy vehicle coupled to an additional toy vehicle;

[0011] Figure 2C The exemplary embodiment according to the present application is shown Figure 2A A top perspective view of a toy vehicle coupled to an additional toy vehicle;

[0012] Figure 2D The embodiment of the present application is shown in a retracted configuration. Figure 2A a side perspective view of a toy vehicle;

[0013] Figure 3A shows a side view of another toy vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application;

[0014] Figure 3B The exemplary embodiment according to the present application is shown Figure 3A A side perspective view of a toy vehicle coupled to an additional toy vehicle;

[0015] Figure 4A shows a side perspective view of yet another toy vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application;

[0016] Figure 4B The exemplary embodiment according to the present application is shown Figure 4A a side view of a toy vehicle coupled to an additional toy vehicle;

[0017] Figure 4C The exemplary embodiment according to the present application is shown Figure 4A A front perspective view of a toy vehicle coupled to an additional toy vehicle;

[0018] Figure 5Ashows a side perspective view of yet another toy vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application;

[0019] Figure 5B The exemplary embodiment according to the present application is shown Figure 5A A side perspective view of a toy vehicle coupled to an additional toy vehicle;

[0020] Figure 5C The exemplary embodiment according to the present application is shown Figure 5A A front perspective view of a toy vehicle coupled to an additional toy vehicle;

[0021] Fig. 6A A bottom perspective view showing yet another toy vehicle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present application; and

[0022] Figure 6B The exemplary embodiment according to the present application is shown Fig. 6A A bottom view of a toy vehicle turning. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] In general, a toy vehicle is proposed herein. The toy vehicle includes a first body, a first axle and a first wheel. The toy vehicle is configured to be coupled to an additional toy vehicle. For example, the additional toy vehicle may include a second body, a second axle and a second wheel. The first number of the first axle and the first wheel of the toy vehicle is greater than the second number of the second axle and the second wheel of the additional toy vehicle. The increase in the number of the first axle and the first wheel provides sufficient stability and support, which allows the toy vehicle to stably carry and / or haul the additional toy vehicle, and also brings other advantages. The increase in the number of axles and wheels can also generate more tactile feedback for the user who "drives" the toy vehicle and / or allow the toy vehicle to pass through new and unique obstacles or surfaces. In addition, the increase in the number of axles and wheels also creates a unique appearance, which can increase the visual appeal of the toy vehicle to the user to encourage interactive play with the toy vehicle. In some embodiments, the toy vehicle includes a hitch or a towing hook, which is configured to be coupled to the additional toy vehicle so that the toy vehicle can drag the additional toy vehicle. In additional or alternative embodiments, the toy vehicle includes a base, and the additional toy vehicle can be placed on the base so that the toy vehicle can carry the additional toy vehicle. Increased interactive engagement between the toy vehicle and additional toy vehicles may provide diverse playability and enhance the user experience.

[0024] Figure 1A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a toy vehicle playset 100 created with the toy vehicles presented herein is shown. The toy vehicle playset 100 includes a primary toy vehicle 102 and a secondary toy vehicle 104. The primary toy vehicle 102 includes a first body or chassis 106, a first axle 108 connected to the first body 106, and a first wheel 110 connected to the first axle. The secondary toy vehicle 104 includes a second body or chassis 112, a second axle 114 connected to the second body 112, and a second wheel 116 connected to the second axle 114.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first wheels 110 include a greater number of wheels than the second wheels 116. As an example, the primary toy vehicle 102 may include six first wheels 110, while the secondary toy vehicle 104 may include four second wheels 116. As another example, the primary toy vehicle 102 may include more than six first wheels 110 (e.g., eight first wheels 110), and the secondary toy vehicle 104 may include more than four second wheels 116 (e.g., six second wheels 116). The first axle 108 also includes a greater number of axles than the second axles 114 to connect the first wheels 110 to the first body 106. For example, the first axle 108 may have half of the first wheels 110, so that each first axle 108 is coupled to a pair of first wheels 110. In addition, the first body 106 of the primary toy vehicle 102 is larger than the second body 112 of the secondary toy vehicle 104 to accommodate a greater number of axles and wheels. For example, the first body 106 may be longer (e.g., have a greater length) than the second body 112.

[0026] The increased length of the first body 106 and the corresponding greater number of wheels can provide greater stability for the master toy vehicle 102. For example, the first wheels 110 can adequately support the first body 106 (e.g., prevent deformation of the first body 106, such as flexing), and enable the master toy vehicle 102 to achieve a variety of desired orientations during movement (e.g., by preventing flipping or rolling). In some embodiments, each of the first axles 108 can be movable relative to the first body 106 to increase the mobility of the master toy vehicle 102. As an example, each first axle 108 can rotate relative to the first body 106, so that the first wheels 110 can rotate accordingly to help turn the master toy vehicle 102. Additionally or alternatively, each first axle 108 can be moved in and out of the first body 106 to adjust the extension of the first wheel 110 relative to the first body 106, so that the first wheel 110 can conform to the contour of the surface along which the master toy vehicle 102 moves, and facilitate the movement of the master toy vehicle 102 along uneven surfaces. As a specific example, each first axle 108 may extend through two slots defined by the first body 106, and the slots may allow each first axle 108 to independently rotate, translate laterally, translate along the length of the slot, and / or tilt.

[0027] The primary toy vehicle 102 and the secondary toy vehicle 104 are configured to be coupled to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the primary toy vehicle 102 includes a support 118 configured to be coupled to a mount 120 of the secondary toy vehicle 104 to couple the primary toy vehicle 102 and the secondary toy vehicle 104 to each other. In additional or alternative embodiments, the primary toy vehicle 102 may include a mount configured to be coupled to a support of the secondary toy vehicle. In either case, the connection of the support 118 to the mount 120 may enable the primary toy vehicle 102 to carry or tow the secondary toy vehicle 104. Thus, the movement of the primary toy vehicle 102 drives the corresponding movement of the secondary toy vehicle 104.

[0028] Figure 2AA side perspective view of a first toy vehicle 150 (e.g., a first master toy vehicle) is shown. The first toy vehicle 150 includes a body 152 and three pairs of wheels 154 (e.g., coupled to the body 152 via respective axles). The wheels 154 of the first toy vehicle 150 include a front wheel 154A located at a first end 156 (e.g., the front) of the body 152, a rear wheel 154B located at a second end 158 (e.g., the rear) of the body 152 opposite the first end 156, and an intermediate wheel 154C located between the first end 156 and the second end 158. The body 152 of the first toy vehicle 150 is elongated (e.g., having an increased length), and the intermediate wheels 154C can provide stability to the elongated body 152. For example, the intermediate wheels 154C can support / stabilize the body 152 so that each wheel 154 abuts against a surface 161 on which the first toy vehicle 150 is placed to avoid bending or flexing of the body 152 and / or to avoid undesirable rolling or rolling motion of the body 152.

[0029] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate wheel 154C is positioned closer to the rear wheel 154B to help provide increased stability at the second end 158 of the toy vehicle 150 and / or to help carry / support additional toy vehicles. This positioning can also "free" the front wheel, making it easier to maneuver and help ensure that the first toy vehicle 150 has a desired turning radius and desired steering control. However, in other embodiments, the intermediate wheel 154C can be positioned anywhere between the front wheel 154A and the rear wheel 154B. Alternatively, the intermediate wheel 154C does not need to include the same axle and connection mechanism as the front wheel 154A and / or the rear wheel 154B. In fact, in some embodiments, the "intermediate wheel" can include a single wheel.

[0030] The first toy vehicle 150 also includes a traction device 160 that serves as a support for the first toy vehicle 150. The traction device 160 extends from the body 152 at the second end 158 of the first toy vehicle 150 as shown. However, in additional or alternative embodiments, the first toy vehicle 150 may include a traction device extending from the body 152 at the first end 156. The traction device 160 is configured to be connected to an additional toy vehicle to connect the first toy vehicle 150 and the additional toy vehicle to each other. For example, the traction device 160 may include two fingers 162 that are offset from each other to form a gap 164 therebetween, and each finger 162 has a hook or arcuate shape to form a recess 166 of the traction device 160.

[0031] In some embodiments, traction device 160 is configured to move relative to body 152 to transition first toy vehicle 150 between various configurations. Figure 2AThe first toy vehicle 150 is shown in a first configuration 168 (e.g., an extended configuration, a deployed configuration) in which the traction device 160 extends away from the second end 158. The first configuration 168 can facilitate connection of an additional toy vehicle to the traction device 160. For example, the fingers 162 of the traction device 160 and the gaps 164 and recesses 166 of the traction device 160 can be offset from the body 152 of the first toy vehicle 150 along the longitudinal axis 170 to increase accessibility of the traction device 160 for connection to an additional toy vehicle.

[0032] Figure 2B A side perspective view of a first toy vehicle 150 connected to a second toy vehicle 200 (e.g., a first toy vehicle) is shown to provide a first toy vehicle play set 202. The second toy vehicle 200 shown includes two pairs of wheels 204. Thus, the first toy vehicle 150 includes a greater number of wheels than the second toy vehicle 200. In addition, the second toy vehicle 200 includes a body 206 that is relatively shorter than the body 152 of the first toy vehicle 150. The width of the first toy vehicle 150 is the same or substantially similar to the width of the second toy vehicle 200. For example, the distance between the wheels 154 of the same axle of the first toy vehicle 150 can be substantially similar to the distance between the wheels 204 of the same axle of the second toy vehicle 200. The similar width dimensions of the first toy vehicle 150 and the second toy vehicle 200 allow the first toy vehicle 150, the second toy vehicle 200, and the first toy vehicle play set 202 (i.e., the first toy vehicle 150 is connected to the second toy vehicle 200) to all be compatible with the same toy vehicle track and play set. In other words, the first toy vehicle 150 and the first toy vehicle play set 202 may be used with other toy vehicle play sets having a track width designed for the second toy vehicle 200 .

[0033] The first toy vehicle 150 is connected to the second toy vehicle 200 by a traction device 160. Specifically, the traction device 160 is coupled to a mounting member (not shown) extending from the body 206 of the second toy vehicle 200. In this way, the first toy vehicle 150 is configured to tow the second toy vehicle 200. That is, the movement of the first toy vehicle 150 drives the corresponding movement of the second toy vehicle 200.

[0034] Figure 2CA top perspective view of a first toy vehicle 150 connected to a second toy vehicle 200 is shown. The second toy vehicle 200 includes a frame 250 (e.g., a strut) that serves as a mount for a traction device 160 connected to the first toy vehicle 150. The frame 250 extends from the body 206 of the second toy vehicle 200, and an axle 252 (e.g., a front axle connected to the front wheels) of the second toy vehicle 200 extends from the frame 250. The frame 250 is positioned within the gaps 164 between the fingers 162 of the traction device 160, and the fingers 162 of the traction device 160 engage the frame 250 to capture the frame 250 within the gaps 164. In addition, the axle 252 of the second toy vehicle 200 is located within the recesses 166 of the traction device 160, and the fingers 162 of the traction device 160 engage the axle 252 to capture the axle 252 within the recesses 166. The cooperative capture of the frame 250 within the gaps 164 between the fingers 162 and the axle 252 within the recess 166 of the traction device 160 facilitates securing the traction device 160 to the second toy vehicle 200 to connect the first toy vehicle 150 and the second toy vehicle 200 to one another.

[0035] Figure 2D A side perspective view of the first toy vehicle 150 is shown in a second configuration 300 (e.g., a retracted configuration, a stowed configuration) in which the position of the traction device 160 is adjusted compared to the first configuration 168. To accomplish this, the traction device 160 can be inserted and partially stored within the body 152 of the first toy vehicle 150 (e.g., by manually applied force) such that the traction device 160 and the gap 164 and recess 166 of the traction device 160 are positioned proximate to and overlap with the second end 158 of the body 152 along the longitudinal axis 170 in the second configuration 300. As such, in the second configuration 300 of the first toy vehicle 150, the accessibility of the traction device 160 can be reduced (e.g., the traction device 160 is not configured to be connected to the second toy vehicle 200). In contrast, the second configuration 300 of the first toy vehicle 150 can reduce the overall physical footprint occupied by the first toy vehicle 150 to facilitate movement, transportation, and / or placement of the first toy vehicle 150, particularly in confined spaces.

[0036] Figure 3A A side view of a third toy vehicle 350 (e.g., a second primary toy vehicle) is shown. The third toy vehicle 350 also has a body 352 and three pairs of wheels 354, including a front wheel 354A located at a first end 356 (e.g., the front) of the body 352, a rear wheel 354B located at a second end 358 (e.g., the rear) of the body 352 opposite to the first end 356, and an intermediate wheel 354C located between the first end 356 and the second end 358. The body 352 of the third toy vehicle 350 is also elongated.

[0037] The third toy vehicle 350 also includes an arm 360 extending from the body 352 (e.g., from the first end 356 toward the second end 358) and a traction device 362 connected to the arm 360. The arm 360 and the traction device 362 together serve as a support for the third toy vehicle 350. In some embodiments, the traction device 362 of the third toy vehicle 350 has a similar structure to the traction device 160 of the first toy vehicle 150, and includes two fingers 364 that define a gap 366 and a recess 368. In addition, in some embodiments, the traction device 362 is configured to move relative to the arm 360 (e.g., via a manually applied force). For example, the traction device 362 can be pivotally coupled to the arm 360 at a hinge 370, so that the traction device 362 is configured to rotate relative to the arm 360 via the hinge 370. Figure 3A The third toy vehicle 350 is shown in a first configuration 372 (e.g., an extended configuration, a deployed configuration), wherein the traction device 362 extends away from the second end 358 of the body 352, such that the fingers 364 of the traction device 362 and the gaps 366 and recesses 368 of the traction device 362 are offset from the body 352 of the third toy vehicle 350 along the longitudinal axis 374. In this way, the accessibility of the traction device 362 is increased to enable connection to an additional toy vehicle. Rotation of the traction device 362 relative to the arm 360 causes the third toy vehicle 350 to transition to a second configuration (e.g., a retracted configuration, a stowed configuration), wherein the traction device 362 and the gaps 366 and recesses 368 of the traction device 362 overlap with the body 352 along the longitudinal axis 374. As an example, the arm 360 includes a cutout 376, and when the traction device 362 is rotated to extend along the arm 360, a portion of the traction device 362 (e.g., the fingers 364) can be positioned within the cutout 376. Thus, in the second configuration, the third toy vehicle 350 may have a significantly reduced physical footprint.

[0038] Figure 3BA top perspective view of a third toy vehicle 350 is shown, which is connected to a fourth toy vehicle 400 (e.g., a second toy vehicle) to provide a second toy vehicle play set 402. The fourth toy vehicle 400 includes two pairs of wheels 404 and a body 406 that is relatively shorter than the body 352 of the third toy vehicle 350. In addition, the third toy vehicle 350 is connected to the fourth toy vehicle 400 by a traction device 362. For example, the traction device 362 is connected to a mounting member (not shown) extending from the body 406 of the fourth toy vehicle 400. For example, the mounting member of the fourth toy vehicle 400 includes a frame 408 from which an axle (not shown) of the fourth toy vehicle 400 extends, and the traction device 362 is configured to capture the frame 408 and the axle (e.g., within the gap 366 between the fingers 364 and within the recess 368, respectively) to be secured to the fourth toy vehicle 400. Thus, the third toy vehicle 350 is configured to tow the fourth toy vehicle 400 so that the movement of the third toy vehicle 350 drives the corresponding movement of the fourth toy vehicle 400. The width of the third toy vehicle 350 (e.g., the width between the wheels 354 of the same axle of the third toy vehicle 350) is the same or substantially similar to the width of the fourth toy vehicle 400 (e.g., the width between the wheels 404 of the same axle of the fourth toy vehicle 400). The similar width dimensions of the third toy vehicle 350 and the fourth toy vehicle 400 allow the third toy vehicle 350, the fourth toy vehicle 400, and the second toy vehicle toy set 402 (i.e., the third toy vehicle 350 is connected to the fourth toy vehicle 400) to all be compatible with the same toy vehicle track and toy set. In other words, the third toy vehicle 350 and the second toy vehicle toy set 402 can be used with other toy vehicle toy sets having a track width designed for the fourth toy vehicle 400.

[0039] Figure 4A A top perspective view of a fifth toy vehicle 450 (e.g., a third main vehicle) is shown. The fifth toy vehicle 450 includes a body 452 and three pairs of wheels 454, including front wheels 454A located at a first end 456 (e.g., the front) of the body 452, rear wheels 454B located at a second end 458 (e.g., the rear) of the body 452 opposite the first end 456, and intermediate wheels 454C located between the first end 456 and the second end 458. The body 452 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 is elongated.

[0040] The body 452 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 includes a base 460 (e.g., a flat plate) and a prop 462, which is used as a support for connecting to an additional toy vehicle. That is, each of the base 460 and the prop 462 is configured to engage with the additional toy vehicle to fasten the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the additional toy vehicle to each other. The prop 462 extends from the first end 456 to the second end 458 along the middle of the base 460. For example, the base 460 may include a space 464, and the prop 462 is positioned in the space 464. In addition, the fifth toy vehicle 450 includes a fin 466 (e.g., a spoiler) located at the second end 458, and the prop 462 may extend to the fin 466.

[0041] Figure 4B A side view of a fifth toy vehicle 450 is shown, which is connected to a sixth toy vehicle 500 (e.g., a third toy vehicle) to provide a third toy vehicle play set 502. The sixth toy vehicle 500 includes two pairs of wheels 504 and a body 506 that is relatively shorter than the body 452 of the fifth toy vehicle 450. The sixth toy vehicle 500 is placed on the base 460 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 so that the wheels 504 of the sixth toy vehicle 500 engage with the base 460 and connect the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the sixth toy vehicle 500 to each other. For example, the fifth toy vehicle 450 is configured to carry the sixth toy vehicle 500 so that movement of the fifth toy vehicle 450 drives corresponding movement of the sixth toy vehicle 500. The intermediate wheels 454C of the fifth toy vehicle 450 provide support to prevent flexing or bending of the body 452 and / or base 460 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 that might otherwise be caused by the positioning of the sixth toy vehicle 500 on the fifth toy vehicle 450 .

[0042] To secure the sixth toy vehicle 500 to the base 460, the base 460 includes a bump or block 508 that defines a recess 510 that is configured to receive one of the wheels 504 (e.g., one of the front wheels) of the sixth toy vehicle 500. That is, the front wheel 504 of the sixth toy vehicle 500 is configured to be located within the recess 510, and the bump 508 is configured to engage the front wheel 504 to block the front wheel 504 from moving out of the recess 510. Thus, the front wheel 504 is retained within the recess 510 to prevent substantial movement (e.g., translation) of the sixth toy vehicle 500 relative to the fifth toy vehicle 450 along the longitudinal axis 512, which would otherwise cause the sixth toy vehicle 500 to roll off the base 460. Thus, the recess 510 helps maintain the placement of the sixth toy vehicle 500 on the base 460. The tabs 466 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 also help connect the sixth toy vehicle 500 to the fifth toy vehicle 450. For example, the wing 466 can be configured to engage with another of the wheels 504 (e.g., the rear wheel) and / or the body 506 of the sixth toy vehicle 500 to prevent the sixth toy vehicle 500 from moving away from the base 460, thereby keeping the sixth toy vehicle 500 placed on the base 460. In summary, in other embodiments, including similar Figure 4A and 4B The toy vehicle base 460 of the illustrated fifth toy vehicle 450 may include any desired features that facilitate securing additional toy vehicles to the base 460 in addition to or in place of the nubs 508 and recesses 510 illustrated in these figures.

[0043] In some embodiments, the wheels 454 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the wheels 504 of the sixth toy vehicle 500 may have similar dimensions, such as substantially the same diameter. Thus, the size difference between the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the sixth toy vehicle 500 (e.g., the increased length of the fifth toy vehicle 450) may be primarily attributable to the size difference of the vehicle bodies, rather than the size difference of the wheels 454, 504. For example, the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the sixth toy vehicle 500 (as well as the first, second, third, and fourth toy vehicles 150, 200, 350, 400) may be die-cast small-scale models of monster trucks or another such vehicle (e.g., 1:64 scale monster trucks) with oversized wheels compared to the size of the vehicle bodies, such as the height of the wheels being the same as or greater than the height of the vehicle bodies. By comparison, many common toy vehicles are die-cast small-scale models of production cars or similarly sized vehicles, such as the 1:64 scale toy vehicles produced and sold as HOT WHEELS or MATCHBOX toy vehicles. Thus, the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the sixth toy vehicle 500 (as well as the first, second, third and fourth toy vehicles 150, 200, 350, 400) can have similar overall widths to each other (e.g., the distance between the wheels of the same axle), but these widths can be larger than the corresponding sizes of ordinary toy vehicles (e.g., twice).

[0044] Figure 4C A front perspective view of the fifth toy vehicle 450 being connected to the sixth toy vehicle 500 by placing the sixth toy vehicle 500 on the base 460 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 is shown. The sixth toy vehicle 500 shown includes a frame 530 (e.g., a strut) extending from the body 506, the frame 530 serving as a mounting member to connect the sixth toy vehicle 500 to the fifth toy vehicle 450. For example, the frame 530 includes lips 532 that are offset from each other along a transverse axis 534 to define a gap 536 extending between the lips 532. The gap 536 is configured to receive a portion of the post 462 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 such that the lips 532 capture the post 462 within the gap 536. As a result, the lips 532 engage the post 462 to prevent the sixth toy vehicle 500 from moving relative to the fifth toy vehicle 450 along the transverse axis 534 (e.g., the sixth toy vehicle 500 tilts or slides relative to the base 460) to keep the sixth toy vehicle 500 placed on the base 460.

[0045] The dimensions of the fifth toy vehicle 450 (e.g., the distance between the wheels 454 of the same axle) can be the same as or substantially similar to the dimensions of the sixth toy vehicle 500 (e.g., the distance between the wheels 504 of the same axle). Additionally, as described above, the wheels 454 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the wheels 504 of the sixth toy vehicle 500 can have similar dimensions. Thus, the width and / or diameter of the wheels 454 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the width and / or diameter of the wheels 504 of the sixth toy vehicle 500 can also be similar to each other respectively. For this purpose, positioning the sixth toy car 500 on the fifth toy car 450 can align the bodies 452, 506 of the fifth toy car 450 and the sixth toy car 500 with each other along the transverse axis 534, and align the wheels 454, 504 of the fifth toy car 450 and the sixth toy car 500 with each other. In other words, when the sixth toy vehicle 500 is stacked on the fifth toy vehicle 450, the sixth toy vehicle 500 can be vertically aligned with the fifth toy vehicle 450. This alignment between the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the sixth toy vehicle 500 helps to position the sixth toy vehicle 500 for fastening to the fifth toy vehicle 450, such as by engaging the frame 530 of the sixth toy vehicle 500 with the struts 462 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 and / or by positioning the wheels 504 of the sixth toy vehicle 500 in the recesses 510 of the base 460 of the fifth toy vehicle 450. Additionally, the total width of the fifth toy vehicle 450 is the same as the total width of the sixth toy vehicle 500, resulting in the third toy vehicle toy set 502 (i.e., the fifth toy vehicle 450 connected to the sixth toy vehicle 500) also having the same width. This allows the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the third toy vehicle toy set 502 to play on specific toy vehicle tracks and toy sets designed for the sixth toy vehicle 500, even though the fifth toy vehicle 450 and the third toy vehicle toy set 502 are respectively longer and taller than the sixth toy vehicle 500.

[0046] The base 460 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 extends sufficiently outward along the transverse axis 534 to accommodate the wheels 504 of the sixth toy vehicle 500. That is, the base 460 provides sufficient surface area for engaging with the wheels 504 to balance the sixth toy vehicle 500 on top of the fifth toy vehicle 450. For this purpose, the width of the base 460 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 along the transverse axis 534 can be greater than the width of the body 506 of the sixth toy vehicle 500 along the transverse axis 534 to accommodate the distance between the wheels 504 of the same axle (e.g., substantially similar to the distance between the wheels 454 of the same axle) and engage sufficiently with the wheels 504. Thus, the base 460 can overlap with the wheels 454 of the fifth toy vehicle 450 along the transverse axis 534.

[0047] Figure 5AA side perspective view of a seventh toy vehicle 550 (e.g., a fourth main vehicle) is shown. The seventh toy vehicle 550 includes a body 552 and three pairs of wheels 554, the wheels 554 including a front wheel 554A located at a first end 556 (e.g., the front) of the body 552, a rear wheel 554B located at a second end 558 (e.g., the rear) of the body 552 opposite the first end 556, and an intermediate wheel 554C located between the first end 556 and the second end 558. The body 552 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 is elongated.

[0048] The seventh toy vehicle 550 also includes a base 560 (e.g., a flat plate) and a post 562 (although the post 562 has a decorative shape / modeling) that serves as a support for coupling to an additional toy vehicle by placing the additional toy vehicle on the base 560. The base 560 includes a bump or block 564 that defines a recess 566 that is configured to receive one of the wheels of the additional toy vehicle, thereby substantially preventing movement of the additional toy vehicle relative to the seventh toy vehicle along the longitudinal axis 568. Thus, placement of the additional toy vehicle on the seventh toy vehicle 550 is maintained.

[0049] Figure 5BA side view of a seventh toy vehicle 550 is shown, which is connected to an eighth toy vehicle 600 (e.g., a fourth toy vehicle) to provide a fourth toy vehicle play set 602. The eighth toy vehicle 600 includes two pairs of wheels 604 and a body 606 that is relatively shorter than the body 552 of the seventh toy vehicle 550. The eighth toy vehicle 600 is placed on the base 560 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 so that the wheels 604 of the eighth toy vehicle 600 engage the base 560, thereby connecting the seventh toy vehicle 550 and the eighth toy vehicle 600 to each other, so that the seventh toy vehicle 550 is configured to carry the eighth toy vehicle 600. For example, the wheels 604 (e.g., the front wheels) of the eighth toy vehicle 600 are located within a recess 566 defined by the base 560 and the nubs 564 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 to prevent substantial movement of the eighth toy vehicle 600 relative to the seventh toy vehicle 550 along the longitudinal axis 568. The wheels 554 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 and the wheels 604 of the eighth toy vehicle 600 can have similar sizes, such as substantially the same diameter. In addition, the intermediate wheel 554C of the seventh toy vehicle 550 is positioned closer to the rear wheel 554B than to the front wheel 554A. In other words, the distance between the intermediate wheel 554C and the rear wheel 554B (shown as distance "A") is less than the distance between the intermediate wheel 554C and the front wheel 554A (shown as distance "B"). Positioning the intermediate wheel 554C closer to the rear wheel 554B provides additional support for the additional weight of the eighth toy vehicle 600, which is positioned closer to the rear of the seventh toy vehicle 550. In addition, Figure 5B In the illustrated embodiment, the distance "A" between the middle wheel 554C and the rear wheel 554B is less than the distance between the wheels 604 of the eighth toy vehicle 600 (shown as distance "C"). In other embodiments, the distance "A" can be the same as or greater than the distance "C".

[0050] Figure 5CA front perspective view of the seventh toy vehicle 550 being connected to the eighth toy vehicle 600 by placing the seventh toy vehicle 550 on the base 560 of the eighth toy vehicle 600 is shown. The eighth toy vehicle 600 shown includes a frame 650 extending from the body 606, the frame 650 serving as a mounting member and engaging with the pillars 562 when the eighth toy vehicle 600 is placed on the seventh toy vehicle 550. The engagement of the pillars 562 with the frame 650 increases the contact between the seventh toy vehicle 550 and the eighth toy vehicle 600, thereby preventing relative movement between the seventh toy vehicle 550 and the eighth toy vehicle 600 by friction. In addition, the eighth toy vehicle 600 is placed on the seventh toy vehicle 550 so that the pillars 562 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 are located between the opposing wheels 604 of each pair of wheels 604. In other words, the wheels 604 of the eighth toy vehicle 600 straddle and grasp the pillars 562. This engagement of the wheels 604 of the eighth toy vehicle 600 with the posts 562 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 prevents the eighth toy vehicle 600 from moving relative to the seventh toy vehicle 550 along the lateral axis 652 to maintain the position of the eighth toy vehicle 600 on the base 560 .

[0051] The dimensions of the seventh toy vehicle 550 (e.g., the distance between the wheels 554 of the same axle) can be the same or substantially similar to the dimensions of the eighth toy vehicle 600 (e.g., the distance between the wheels 604 of the same axle), and the width and / or diameter of the wheels 554 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 and the width and / or diameter of the wheels 604 of the eighth toy vehicle 600 can also be similar to each other (e.g., substantially the same dimensions). Therefore, when the eighth toy vehicle 600 is stacked on the seventh toy vehicle 550, the bodies 552, 606 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 and the eighth toy vehicle 600 can be aligned with each other along the transverse axis 652, and the wheels 554, 604 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 and the eighth toy vehicle 600 can be aligned with each other along the transverse axis 652. This alignment helps position the wheels 604 of the eighth toy vehicle 600 in the recesses 566 of the base 560 of the seventh toy vehicle 550, thereby helping to secure the seventh toy vehicle 550 to the eighth toy vehicle 600.

[0052] The base 560 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 extends outwardly sufficiently along the transverse axis 652 to accommodate the wheels 604 of the eighth toy vehicle 600. That is, the base 560 provides the eighth toy vehicle 600 with sufficient surface area for engagement with the wheels 604 to balance on top of the seventh toy vehicle 550. To this end, the width of the base 560 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 along the transverse axis 652 can be greater than the width of the body 606 of the eighth toy vehicle 600 along the transverse axis 652 to accommodate the distance between the wheels 604 of the same axle (e.g., substantially similar to the distance between the wheels 554 of the same axle) and to fully engage with the wheels 604. Therefore, the base 560 can overlap with the wheels 554 of the seventh toy vehicle 550 along the transverse axis 652.

[0053] Fig. 6A and 6B A ninth toy vehicle 750 is shown. For ease of description, the Fig. 6A and 6B Element of the ninth toy vehicle 750 . Fig. 6A A bottom perspective view of a ninth toy vehicle 750 is shown. The ninth toy vehicle 750 includes a body 752 and three pairs of wheels 754, the wheels 754 including front wheels 754A, 754B located at a first end 756 (e.g., front portion) of the body 752, rear wheels 754C, 754D located at a second end 758 (e.g., rear portion) opposite to the first end 756 of the body 752, and intermediate wheels 754E, 754F located between the first end 756 and the second end 758. Three axles 760 connect the corresponding pairs of wheels 754. More specifically, the front wheels 754A, 754B are connected to a front axle 760A, the rear wheels 754C, 754D are connected to a rear axle 760B, and the intermediate wheels 754E, 754F are connected to the intermediate axle 760C.

[0054] The body 752 of the ninth toy vehicle 750 includes three pairs of elongated angular openings 762 that support the axles 760. Figure 6B As shown, the front axle 760A passes through the front openings 762A, 762B, the rear axle 760B passes through the rear openings 762C, 762D, and the middle axle 760C passes through the middle openings 762E, 762F. Fig. 6A, although only one angle opening from each pair of elongated angle openings is visible (i.e., openings 762A, 762C, 762E), it should be understood that the invisible openings (i.e., openings 762B, 762D, 762F) have the same size and positioning as their corresponding visible counterparts. The elongated angle openings 762 are generally of the same size, but in some embodiments, different pairs of openings may have different shapes and / or sizes. The front openings 762A, 762B extend toward the first end 756 at a first angle 764A relative to the longitudinal axis 768, which extends along and / or is defined by the body 752 of the ninth toy vehicle 750. The first angle 764A is between 0 and 90 degrees, and in some embodiments, is approximately 45 degrees. The rear openings 762C, 762D and the intermediate openings 762E, 762F extend toward the second end 758 at a second angle 764B and a third angle 764C, respectively, relative to the longitudinal axis 768. The second angle 764B and the third angle 764C are also between 0 and 90 degrees, and in some embodiments, are both approximately 45 degrees. Fig. 6A In the illustrated embodiment, the second angle 764B and the third angle 764C are the same angle, and the first angle 764A is a different angle than both the second angle 764B and the third angle 764C. Fig. 6A When the elongated angled openings 762 are moved in a straight line (as shown in the figure), the elongated angled openings 762 are angled so that the axle 760 is located closest to the body 752 in each angled opening 762 (e.g., because gravity pushes the body 752 and the axle 760 toward each other). This causes the axle 760 to be approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 768.

[0055] Figure 6B A bottom perspective view of the ninth toy vehicle 750 is shown as it turns, such as by a user manually tilting the body 752 of the toy vehicle 750 in the direction of the turn, or the ninth toy vehicle 750 is guided through the turn on a toy vehicle track or toy set. Figure 6BIn the illustrated example, the ninth toy vehicle 750 is turning right, with the body 752 tilting or inclining on its right side toward the wheels 754A, 754C, 754E. When the body 752 tilts, one side of the body 752 and the openings 762B, 762D, 762F are lifted to be higher than the openings 762A, 762C, 762E on the opposite side of the body 752. The lifting of the openings 762B, 762D, 762F causes the axle 760 to slide to a position (e.g., in a downward direction relative to the body 752) in the openings 762B, 762D, 762F. Due to the angle and positioning of the elongated openings 762B, 762D, 762F, the axle 760 (and the wheel 754 connected to the axle 760) then tilts or inclines and is no longer perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 768.

[0056] Furthermore, because the rear openings 762C, 762D and the intermediate openings 762E, 762F extend in a direction opposite (i.e., toward the second end 758) to the direction in which the front openings 762A, 762B extend (i.e., toward the first end 756), the rear axle 760B and the intermediate axle 760C are tilted or inclined in the same direction as each other and opposite to the direction in which the front axle 760A is tilted or inclined, causing the rear wheel 754C and the intermediate wheel 754E to tilt toward the center plane 770 that bisects the body 752, and the rear wheel 754D and the intermediate wheel 754F to tilt away from the center plane 770. Figure 6B In the illustrated embodiment, the rear openings 762C, 762D and the intermediate openings 762E, 762F are all positioned at the same angle, so the rear axle 760B and the intermediate axle 760C are tilted or inclined by the same amount. This tilted arrangement of the axle 760 and the wheels 754 allows the toy vehicle 750 to turn smoothly to the right with a small turning radius even with an elongated body and six wheels. It should be understood that the ninth toy vehicle 750 utilizes the same mechanism to turn left, except that the raised elongated angled opening 762 is switched (i.e., openings 762A, 762C, 762E), and then the axle 760 is in contact with the left side. Figure 6B Inclined or tilted in the corresponding directions opposite to those shown.

[0057] Although the toy vehicle presented herein has been shown and described in detail with reference to its specific embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to the details shown, as it is apparent that various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, and within the scope and range of the equivalents of the claims. In addition, various features from one of the embodiments may be incorporated into another in the embodiments. That is, it is believed that the above disclosure covers a plurality of different embodiments with independent utility. Although each of these embodiments has been disclosed in a preferred form, its specific embodiments as disclosed and shown herein should not be considered to have a limiting meaning, as many variations are possible. 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 properties disclosed herein. Therefore, it is appropriate that the appended claims are interpreted broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the present disclosure set forth in the appended claims.

[0058] It should also be understood that the toy vehicles or parts 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 may include high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polystyrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), etc. Suitable foamed plastics may include expanded or extruded polystyrene, expanded or extruded polypropylene, EVA foam, derivatives thereof, and combinations thereof.

[0059] In addition, it should be understood that terms such as "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "side", "height", "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "interior", "exterior", "inner", "outer", etc. as may be used herein are merely used to describe reference points and do not limit the present disclosure to any particular orientation or configuration. Furthermore, the term "exemplary" is used herein to describe an example or illustration. Any embodiment described herein as exemplary should not be construed as a preferred or advantageous embodiment, but rather as an example or illustration of possible embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0060] In addition, when used in this article, the term "include" and its derivatives (such as "comprising" etc.) should not be understood to exclude the meaning, that is, these terms should not be interpreted as excluding the possibility that the described and defined content can include additional elements, steps, etc. Similarly, in the case of any description of "a" or "first" element or its equivalent, such disclosure should be understood to include the combination of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. At the same time, when used in this article, the term "approximately" and its cognate terms (such as "approximately" etc.) should be understood to indicate values ​​very close to those values ​​accompanying the aforementioned terms. That is, deviations within reasonable limits from the exact value should be accepted, because those skilled in the art will understand that such deviations from the indicated values ​​are inevitable due to inaccurate measurements, etc. This also applies to the terms "about" and "approximately" and "substantially". For example, the term "approximately" can 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 "about" and "approximately" and "substantially". Additionally, 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).

[0061] Finally, the technology presented and claimed herein is cited and applied to substantial objects and specific examples of a practical nature that demonstrably improve the art and is therefore not abstract, intangible, or purely theoretical. In addition, if any claim appended at the end of this specification contains one or more elements designated as "means for [performing] [the function] ..." or "steps for [performing] [the function] ...", it is intended that these elements be interpreted in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f). However, for any claim containing elements designated in any other manner, it is intended that such elements not be interpreted in accordance with 35 U.S.C. 112(f).

Claims

1. A toy vehicle, comprising: Car body; a first axle, a second axle, and a third axle, the first axle, the second axle, and the third axle being connected to the vehicle body; defining a first wheel and a second wheel of a first pair of wheels coupled to the first axle, defining a third wheel and a fourth wheel of a second pair of wheels coupled to the second axle, and defining a fifth wheel and a sixth wheel of a third pair of wheels coupled to the third axle, wherein the first wheel, the third wheel, and the fifth wheel are positioned on a first side of the vehicle body, and the second wheel, the fourth wheel, and the sixth wheel are positioned on a second side of the vehicle body; and a support configured to couple to an additional toy vehicle; Wherein, tilting the vehicle body toward the first side causes the first wheel, the third wheel and the fifth wheel to tilt toward a center plane bisecting the vehicle body, and tilting the vehicle body toward the second side causes the second wheel, the fourth wheel and the sixth wheel to tilt toward the center plane. 2 . The toy vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the support includes a traction device configured to couple to the additional toy vehicle such that the toy vehicle tows the additional toy vehicle.

3. The toy vehicle according to claim 2, wherein: The traction device is configured to move relative to the vehicle body to transition the toy vehicle between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration.

4. The toy vehicle according to claim 3, wherein: The traction device is configured to rotate relative to the vehicle body.

5. The toy vehicle of claim 3, wherein: The traction device includes a finger configured to couple to the additional toy vehicle, the finger being offset from the body along a longitudinal axis in an extended configuration of the toy vehicle and overlapping the body along the longitudinal axis in a retracted configuration of the toy vehicle. 6 . The toy vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the support includes a base configured to be coupled to the additional toy vehicle such that the toy vehicle carries the additional toy vehicle.

7. The toy vehicle of claim 6, wherein the support comprises a post extending along the base, and the post is configured to engage with the additional toy vehicle.

8. A toy vehicle toy set, comprising: a first toy vehicle comprising a first plurality of wheels; and a second toy vehicle comprising a second plurality of wheels, wherein the number of the first plurality of wheels is greater than the number of the second plurality of wheels, and the second toy vehicle is configured to couple to the first toy vehicle; Wherein the first toy vehicle and the second toy vehicle have the same width.

9. The toy vehicle toy set of claim 8, wherein: Each wheel of the first plurality of wheels and the second plurality of wheels has a same width.

10. The toy vehicle toy set of claim 9, wherein: The first plurality of wheels of the first toy vehicle includes a first pair of wheels, a second pair of wheels, and a third pair of wheels, wherein a first distance between the first pair of wheels and the second pair of wheels is greater than a second distance between the second pair of wheels and the third pair of wheels; and The second plurality of wheels of the second toy vehicle includes a fourth pair of wheels and a fifth pair of wheels, wherein a third distance between the fourth pair of wheels and the fifth pair of wheels is greater than a second distance between the second pair of wheels and the third pair of wheels.

11. The toy vehicle toy set of claim 8, wherein: The first toy vehicle includes a traction device, the second toy vehicle includes a frame, and the traction device is configured to be coupled to the frame.

12. The toy vehicle toy set of claim 11, wherein: The first toy vehicle comprises: body; and An arm extends from the vehicle body, wherein the pulling device extends from the arm.

13. The toy vehicle toy set of claim 12, wherein: The traction device is configured to rotate relative to the arm to transition the first toy vehicle between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration in which the traction device is extended along the arm, and the arm includes a cutout configured to accommodate the traction device in the retracted configuration.

14. The toy vehicle playset of claim 11, wherein: The second toy vehicle includes an axle coupled to a pair of wheels of the second plurality of wheels, the axle extending from the frame, and the traction device is configured to be coupled to the axle.

15. The toy vehicle playset of claim 14, wherein: The traction device includes fingers offset from one another to define a gap therebetween, the fingers extending arcuately to form a recess, the fingers configured to capture the frame within the gap, and the fingers configured to capture the axle within the recess.

16. The toy vehicle playset of claim 8, wherein: The first toy vehicle includes a base configured to engage the second plurality of wheels of the second toy vehicle, the base including a plurality of tabs defining a recess, and the plurality of tabs configured to capture wheels of the second plurality of wheels of the second toy vehicle within the recess.

17. The toy vehicle playset of claim 16, wherein: The first toy vehicle includes a post extending along the base, and the post is configured to extend between the second plurality of wheels.

18. The toy vehicle playset of claim 17, wherein: The second toy vehicle includes a frame including lips that are offset from one another to define a gap, and the lips are configured to capture the post within the gap.

19. A toy vehicle comprising: Car body; three axles connected to said body; three pairs of wheels, wherein each of the three pairs of wheels is coupled to a respective one of the three axles; and A support is configured to be coupled to an additional toy vehicle, wherein the toy vehicle and the additional toy vehicle have the same width.

20. The toy vehicle of claim 19, wherein: The body of the toy vehicle extends along a longitudinal axis and includes three pairs of elongated angular openings, wherein each pair of elongated angular openings supports one of the three wheel axles, respectively; and One pair of the three pairs of elongated angled openings extends toward a first end of the toy vehicle at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis, and the other two pairs of elongated angled openings extend toward a second end of the toy vehicle opposite to the first end at an angle less than 90 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

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