Reconfigurable toy vehicle transport

Abstract

A reconfigurable toy vehicle transport device includes a first transport device reconfigurable between a first configuration and a second configuration, the first transport device including a base portion and a repositionable portion movably connected to the base portion, the base including a first surface having a first track, the base portion including a first compartment storable toy vehicles, the repositionable portion having a second compartment storable toy vehicles, the repositionable portion including a second surface having a second track, the repositionable portion being positionable in a first position above the first surface of the base portion and a second position end to end with the base portion with the first track and the second track aligned and continuous. A second transport device is detachably coupled to the first transport device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to a reconfigurable toy car transport device, and more particularly to a toy car transport device having multiple transport device parts that can be repositioned relative to each other and can also be connected and separated to provide different play modes. Background Technology

[0002] Toys provide entertainment for different users, such as children. For example, toys can include various features that children can play with. An example toy that can entertain children is a toy car. Some traditional toys are transportation devices that children can use to collect and carry toy cars. In some traditional toy car transportation devices, the variability of play is limited. Traditional toy car transportation devices have a single play mode.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a toy car transport device that is easy to reconfigure and offers multiple operating modes to facilitate different games. Summary of the Invention

[0004] A reconfigurable toy car transport vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a first transport device reconfigurable between a first configuration and a second configuration, the first transport device including: a base portion including a first surface having a first track, the base portion including a first compartment for storing toy cars; and a repositionable portion movably connected to the base portion, the repositionable portion having a second compartment for storing toy cars, the repositionable portion including a second surface having a second track, the repositionable portion being arrangeable in a first position above the first surface of the base portion and a second position arranged end-to-end with the base portion, wherein the first track and the second track are aligned and continuous; and a second transport device detachably coupled to the first transport device, wherein the second transport device has a third compartment in which toy cars can be stored.

[0005] In one embodiment, the first transporter includes a first arm and a second arm, each of the first arm and the second arm being pivotally coupled to the base portion and also pivotally coupled to the repositionable portion, the repositionable portion being movable relative to the base portion via movement of the first arm and the second arm.

[0006] In another embodiment, the first arm is connected to the base portion at a first positioning point and to a repositionable portion at a second positioning point, the second arm is connected to the base portion at a third positioning point and to a repositionable portion at a fourth positioning point, the first positioning point being in front of the third positioning point and the second positioning point being in front of the fourth positioning point.

[0007] In yet another embodiment, the base portion has a first slot and the repositionable portion has a second slot, and when the repositionable portion is in its first position above the base portion, the first arm and the second arm are located in the first slot and the second slot.

[0008] In an alternative embodiment, the base portion has an outlet opening communicating with the first track, the repositionable portion has a launcher adjacent to the second track, and when the repositionable portion is in its second position, the launcher can be actuated to launch the toy car along the second track, then along the first track, and then through the outlet opening.

[0009] In one embodiment, the second transport device includes a vehicle body with an entrance through which the toy car can be collected from a support surface.

[0010] In another embodiment, the second transport device includes a body having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the body including a first wing pivotally mounted to the first side, a second wing pivotally mounted to the second side, and an input member that can be actuated to pivot the first wing and the second wing relative to the body of the second transport device.

[0011] Furthermore, the body includes an internal accommodating portion, the first wing includes a first track portion oriented toward the internal accommodating portion, and the toy car can be placed on the first track portion of the first wing and can travel from the first wing to the internal accommodating portion.

[0012] In one embodiment, the repositionable portion includes a retaining member pivotally connected to the repositionable portion, and the retaining member engages the second transport device when the second transport device is placed on the first transport device.

[0013] In another embodiment, the first transport device has a locking member, and the second transport device has a release mechanism that can be actuated to separate the second transport device from the first transport device.

[0014] A reconfigurable toy car transport device according to another embodiment of the present invention includes: a first transport device reconfigurable between a first configuration and a second configuration, the first transport device including: a base including a first compartment in which a toy car can be stored; and a repositionable portion movably connected to the base, the repositionable portion having a second compartment in which a toy car can be stored, the repositionable portion being positionable at a first position above the base and a second position opposite to the base; and a second transport device detachably coupled to the first transport device, wherein the second transport device has a third compartment in which a toy car can be stored, and the second transport device has a toy car inlet mechanism that can collect the toy car from a support surface.

[0015] In an alternative embodiment, the first transporter includes an arm pivotally coupled to a base and pivotally coupled to a repositionable portion, the repositionable portion being movable relative to the base via the arm.

[0016] In another embodiment, the base has a first track, the repositionable portion has a second track, and the second track is aligned with the first track when the repositionable portion is in its second position.

[0017] In yet another embodiment, the base has an outlet opening communicating with the first track, the repositionable portion has a launcher adjacent to the second track, and when the repositionable portion is in its second position, the launcher can be actuated to launch the toy car along the second track, then along the first track, and then through the outlet opening.

[0018] In an alternative embodiment, the second transport device includes a body having a wing pivotally mounted thereon, an actuator that can be engaged by a user to move the wing relative to the body of the second transport device, and an internal receiving portion that receives a toy car traveling along the wing into the internal receiving portion.

[0019] According to another embodiment of the invention, a reconfigurable toy car transport device includes: a first transport device including a base having an upper surface with a track formed therein, the base including a first compartment in which a toy car can be stored; and a repositionable portion movably connected to the base having a second compartment in which a toy car can be stored, the repositionable portion having its own upper surface with a track formed therein, the repositionable portion being arable in a first position above the base and a second position end-to-end with the base in which the track is aligned and continuous, the repositionable portion including a launcher actuated to propel the toy car along the track on the repositionable portion and then along the track on the base; and a second transport device detachably coupled to the first transport device, wherein the second transport device has a third compartment in which the toy car can be stored.

[0020] In another embodiment, the second transport device includes a body having an entrance through which toy cars can be collected from a support surface, and the body having a first internal accommodating portion in which the collected toy cars are arranged.

[0021] In one alternative embodiment, the body has a wing pivotally mounted to the body and an actuator that can engage to pivot the wing relative to the body. The wing includes a track portion pointing toward a second internal receiving portion, such that a toy car placed on the track portion travels from the wing to the second internal receiving portion.

[0022] In yet another embodiment, the repositionable portion includes a retaining member pivotally connected to the repositionable portion, and the retaining member engages the second transport device when the second transport device is placed on the first transport device.

[0023] In one embodiment, the first transport device has a locking member, and the second transport device includes a release mechanism that can be actuated to separate the second transport device from the first transport device. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The toy car transport device presented herein can be better understood by referring to the following figures and descriptions. Unless the dimensions of the elements in the figures are specifically indicated and described herein, it should be understood that the elements in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, and the focus has been on illustrating the principle of the toy car. In the figures, the same reference numerals denote corresponding parts throughout the different views.

[0025] Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a toy car transport device according to the present invention is shown.

[0026] Figure 2 A perspective view of an embodiment of a toy car transport device according to the present invention is shown.

[0027] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 The toy car transport device shown is a side view.

[0028] Figure 4 It shows Figure 2 The rear view of the toy car transport device shown.

[0029] Figure 5 It shows Figure 2 Perspective views of some components of the toy car transport device in different configurations.

[0030] Figure 6 It shows Figure 2 The image shows a perspective view of a portion of the base of a toy car transport device, with several parts removed.

[0031] Figure 7 It shows Figure 2 The image shows a perspective view of the rear of the toy car transport device, with a portion of it in its open position.

[0032] Figure 8 It shows Figure 2 The toy car transport device shown is a perspective view of its base when the transport device is in the unfolded state.

[0033] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 A perspective view of the rear portion of the base transporter shown.

[0034] Figure 10 It shows Figure 8 The diagram shows a perspective view of the rear section, with some parts removed.

[0035] Figure 11 It shows Figure 8 A perspective view of the rear portion of the base transporter shown.

[0036] Figure 12 It shows Figure 2 A perspective view of the front of the toy car transport device shown.

[0037] Figure 13 It shows Figure 12 The side view of the front-joined toy car shown.

[0038] Figure 14 It shows Figure 2 A top view of some components of the tongue-shaped moving assembly of the toy car transport device shown.

[0039] Figure 15 It shows Figure 2 Another top view of some components of the tongue-shaped moving assembly of the toy car transport device shown.

[0040] Figure 16 It shows Figure 2 A bottom view of some components of the tongue-shaped moving assembly of the toy car transport device shown.

[0041] Figure 17 It shows Figure 2 A bottom perspective view of some components of the tongue-shaped moving assembly of the toy car transport device shown.

[0042] Figure 18 It shows Figure 2 Another bottom perspective view of some other components of the tongue-shaped moving assembly of the toy car transport device shown.

[0043] Figure 19 It shows Figure 2 A side view of some components of the tongue-shaped moving assembly of the toy car transport device shown.

[0044] Figure 20 It shows Figure 2 The diagram shows a perspective view of the rear of a toy car transport device, in which the detachable transport device is separated from the base transport device.

[0045] Figure 21 A perspective view of an embodiment of the detachable transport device according to the present invention is shown.

[0046] Figure 22 It shows Figure 21 A perspective view of the front of the detachable transport shown.

[0047] Figure 23 It shows Figure 21 A perspective view of the rear of the detachable transport unit shown.

[0048] Figure 24 It shows Figure 21 The diagram shows a perspective view of the detachable transport, with some parts removed.

[0049] Figure 25 It shows Figure 21 The top perspective view of the wing movement mechanism of the detachable transport device is shown, with some parts removed.

[0050] Figure 26 It shows Figure 25 The bottom perspective view of the components of the wing movement mechanism shown.

[0051] Figure 26A It shows Figure 25Another bottom perspective view of the components of the wing movement mechanism shown.

[0052] Figure 26B It shows Figure 25 Another bottom perspective view of the components of the wing movement mechanism shown.

[0053] Figure 27 It shows Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view of the toy car transport device shown.

[0054] Figure 28 A perspective view of different supports for a toy car transport device according to the present invention is shown.

[0055] Figure 29 It shows Figure 28 The top view of the support shown.

[0056] Figure 30 A top view of the repositionable portion of the toy car transport device is shown.

[0057] Figure 31 It shows Figure 30 The bottom view of the repositionable section is shown.

[0058] Figure 32 It shows Figure 30 The diagram shows a perspective view of the bottom of the repositionable section, to which the support is attached.

[0059] Figure 33 A perspective view is shown of the repositionable portion located at the midpoint relative to the base of the toy car transport device.

[0060] Figure 34 A perspective view shows the repositionable portion in its unfolded position, with the detachable transport device not attached to it.

[0061] Figure 35 A perspective view of the repositionable portion in its unfolded position is shown, with a detachable transport device attached to the repositionable portion.

[0062] Figure 36 A perspective view of the repositionable portion in its intermediate position is shown, with a detachable transport device attached to the repositionable portion. Detailed Implementation

[0063] In the toy car transport device according to the aspects disclosed herein, there is a base transport device and a repositionable transport device that can be moved relative to the base transport device and placed in different positions. In one position, the repositionable transport device and the base transport device can be in a stacked configuration. In another position, the repositionable portion and the base portion can be arranged end-to-end. The detachable transport device can be connected and separated from the toy car transport device. Each transport device and portion includes at least one chamber or receiving portion in which the toy car can be placed.

[0064] First refer to Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a toy car transport device according to the present invention is shown. Several components of the toy car transport device are shown in... Figure 1 The toy car transport device is shown in a general form. It should be understood that various details and features of the components may vary in different embodiments.

[0065] The toy car transport device 10 can be described as a reconfigurable toy car transport device because one or more components of the toy car transport device 10 can be repositioned to change the overall configuration of the toy car transport device 10. Therefore, children can have different play modes and experiences through different configurations.

[0066] In this embodiment, the toy car transport device 10 includes a transport device 20 and a detachable transport device 40. The transport device 20 includes at least one chamber or recess in which the toy car can be placed. Similarly, the detachable transport device 40 includes at least one chamber or recess in which the toy car can be placed.

[0067] The transport device 20 includes a base portion and a repositionable portion 26 movably coupled to the base portion. The coupling between the base portion and the repositionable portion 26 allows the repositionable portion 26 to be placed in multiple positions relative to the base portion 22. Specifically, the repositionable portion 26 can be placed in a position 30, in which the repositionable portion 26 is positioned above or on top of the base portion. When the portion 26 is in position 30, the transport device 20 has a first configuration 34. In configuration 34, the base portion and the repositionable portion 26 are arranged in a stacked arrangement.

[0068] The repositionable portion 26 can be moved to different positions along the direction of arrow "A". Specifically, the repositionable portion 26 can be moved to position 32 (shown in dashed lines), where the end of the repositionable portion 26 is positioned adjacent to the end of the base portion. When portions 22 and 26 are in these positions, the toy car transport device 20 has a second configuration 36 in which portions 22 and 26 are arranged end-to-end. The user can... Figure 1The repositionable portion 26 is moved from position 32 to position 30 in the opposite direction to the arrow "A" in the diagram. In one embodiment, the movement of the repositionable portion 26 relative to the base portion 22 is performed manually.

[0069] Furthermore, the base portion 22 has one or more tracks 24 formed therein, which, in one embodiment, may extend along the length of the base portion. Similarly, the repositionable portion 26 has one or more tracks 28 formed therein, which, in one embodiment, may extend along the length of the repositionable portion 26. Each of the tracks 24 and 28 is sized and configured to receive a toy car and allow the toy car to travel along the tracks 24 and 28. When the repositionable portion 26 is in its position 32, the tracks 24 and 28 are aligned, thereby allowing the toy car to travel continuously from one of the tracks 24 and 28 to the other.

[0070] The reconfigurable toy car transport device 10 includes a detachable transport device 40 that can be connected to and detached from the transport device 20. The detachable transport device 40 includes at least one chamber or accommodating portion in which the toy car can be placed. The detachable transport device 40 can be placed in a position 42, in which it is placed on and connected to the transport device 20. When the detachable transport device 40 is detached from the transport device 20, it can be moved away from the transport device 20 in the direction of arrow "B" to another position 44.

[0071] The transport device 20 can be placed on the support surface 80, and one or more toy cars 90 can be located on the support surface 80. In one embodiment, one of the transport device 20 and the detachable transport device 40 has a mechanism for engaging or collecting one or more toy cars 90 from the support surface 80.

[0072] Go to Figure 2 An embodiment of a reconfigurable toy car transport device according to the present invention is shown. The toy car transport device 100 includes a transport device 110 and a detachable transport device 400, which can be connected to and detached from the transport device 110. The detachable transport device 400... Figure 2 It is shown as being installed on transport device 110.

[0073] The transport device 110 is shown in a folded or retracted configuration 112. The transport device 110 includes a base portion 120 having several different features as described herein. The base portion 120 extends from a first or front end 122 to a second or rear end 124. In this embodiment, the transport device 110 includes a tongue 160 laterally driven by a gear mechanism driven by rotation of an axle connected to a wheel of the transport device 110. The tongue 160 extends forward from the front end 122. Also located at the front end 122 is a pivotally mounted head member 170, which in this embodiment resembles the head of a toy animal.

[0074] The transport device 110 also includes a repositionable portion 300 movably connected to the base portion 120. Figure 2 In the middle, the repositionable portion 300 is shown in the first position 306, wherein the repositionable portion 300 is located above the base portion 120.

[0075] Transfer to the detachable transport device 400, the detachable transport device 400 in Figure 2 The image shows the detachable transport device 400 in its coupled position 494 relative to the repositionable portion 300. The detachable transport device 400 has a body 402 with a handle 420 defining an opening 422 through which a child's hand can be inserted. Near the handle 420 is an actuator 424 that a child can press to release wings coupled to the body 402 from their lowered or retracted positions near the body 402, allowing the wings to move to their deployed positions, in which the wings extend outward from the body 402. Each wing is biased to its deployed or raised position by a biasing mechanism and can be manually moved back to its retracted position by the child. Figure 2 In the image, only wing 440 is shown, which is shown in its lowered position 442, wherein wing 440 is held by a latch that resists the biasing force of a biasing mechanism (such as a spring).

[0076] In this embodiment, the detachable transport device 400 includes a head 430 pivotally mounted on a body 402, and a toy car collector 480 that engages a toy car on a support surface and moves the toy car into a receiving portion within the body 402. As described in more detail below, the toy car collector 480 includes a rotating hub driven by rotation of a shaft connected to the body 402, and the hub includes several blades extending therefrom that engage the toy car.

[0077] Reference Figure 3 , showed Figure 2 The toy car transport device 100 is shown as a side view. The toy car transport device 100 is also... Figure 3The toy car 90 is shown in its folded or retracted configuration 112. The head member 170 is shown in its lowered position 178 relative to the base portion 120. The base portion 120 includes several chambers or accommodating parts 184 into which a child can manually place the toy car 90. Figure 3 The view shown illustrates both wings 440 and 460. The detachable transporter 400 moves along with the toy car transporter 100 as a child moves it along the supporting surface. Specifically, the child can grasp the handle 420 and move the handle 420 relative to the supporting surface, thereby also moving the toy car transporter 100.

[0078] Go to Figure 4 The image shows a rear view of the toy car transport device 100. The opening 408 leading to the inner cavity or receiving portion in the body 402 of the detachable transport device 400 is sized such that a user can insert a toy car into the inner cavity or receiving portion through the opening 408. The detachable transport device 400 has sides 410 and 411 on opposite sides of the handle 420. Side 410 has a mounting member or mounting portion 412 to which a wing 440 is pivotally coupled. Similarly, side 411 has a mounting member or mounting portion 413 to which a wing 460 is pivotally coupled. In this configuration, wings 440 and 460 are respectively positioned in their lowered positions 442 and 462. Wing 440 is coupled to a latching member 450, which is pivotally coupled to the body 402. Similarly, wing 460 is coupled to latching member 470, which is pivotally coupled to body 402. As described in detail below, each of latching members 450 and 470 is movable relative to body 402 between a lowered position and an raised or extended position. Figure 4 In the middle, each of the latching members 450 and 470 is in its lowered position.

[0079] When the child engages and presses down on the actuator 424, the latching members 450 and 470 move downward relative to the body 402, so that the latches on the latching members 450 and 470 can disengage from the latches on the body 402, thereby allowing the latching members 450 and 470 to move upward from their lowered position to their raised position under the biasing force of the spring.

[0080] Go to Figure 5 This illustration shows some reconfigurations of a toy car transport device 100. A base portion 120 can be placed on a supporting surface and includes a plurality of toy cars 90 disposed therein within a cavity. The toy car transport device 100 includes a repositionable portion 300 movable relative to the base portion 120. Figure 5In this configuration, the repositionable portion 300 is positioned such that the transport device 110 is in an intermediate configuration 114. The transport device 110 includes a pair of arms 210 and 230, which may be referred to as connectors, each connector being connected to the base portion 120 and the repositionable portion 300. Arms 210 and 230 are coupled to each of the base portion 120 and the repositionable portion 300 in a manner that prevents a child's fingers from being pinched by the arms 210 and 230. Arm 210 is connected to the base portion 120 at position 216. Arm 230 is connected to the base portion 120 at position 236, in this embodiment, position 236 being closer to the rear end of the base portion 120 than position 216. Similarly, arm 210 is connected to the repositionable portion 300 at position 218. Arm 230 is connected to the repositionable portion 300 at position 238, in this embodiment, position 238 being closer to the rear end of the repositionable portion 300 than position 218. As the repositionable portion 300 moves relative to the base portion 120, each of the arms 210 and 230 pivots relative to portions 120 and 300. Each of the base portion 120 and the repositionable portion 300 has a groove in which the arms 210 and 230 are received, such that the arms 210 and 230 do not impede the smooth and continuous movement of the base portion 120 and the repositionable portion 300 relative to each other. To move the repositionable portion 300, a user can grasp the handle of the detachable transport device 400 when it is engaged with the repositionable portion 300 and move the detachable transport device 400 in the direction of arrow "C". This movement causes the arms 210 and 230 to pivot as well.

[0081] The repositionable portion 300 includes a body 310 having a lower member 342 with a lower surface 346, and a plurality of engaging members 348 extending downward from the lower surface 346. When the repositionable portion 300 is positioned on top of the base portion 120, the engaging members 348 contact the upper surface of the base portion 120 and create space between the lower member 342 and the base portion 120, which reduces the likelihood of a user's fingers or hand being trapped between the repositionable portion 300 and the base portion 120.

[0082] Go to Figure 6The base portion 120 has a front end 122 and a rear end 124 opposite to the front end 122. The base portion 120 also includes mounting members 200 and 204. Mounting member 200 has two spaced-apart flanges including holes through which pin 202 extends, and mounting member 204 has two spaced-apart flanges including holes through which pin 206 extends. Arm 210 has opposing ends 212 and 214. End 212 is pivotally coupled to mounting member 200 via pin 202, which forms a position 216 where arm 210 is coupled to base portion 120. Arm 210 is pivotable about an axis defined by pin 202. Arm 210 in Figure 6 The arm is shown in its folded or retracted position 220. The arm includes a pair of posts 217 extending in opposite directions at the end 214. The posts 217 are pivotally coupled to the repositionable portion 300 via a recess in the repositionable portion 300 and a connector (not shown).

[0083] Similarly, arm 230 has opposing ends 232 and 234. End 232 is pivotally coupled to mount 204 via pin 206, which forms position 236 where arm 230 is coupled to base portion 120. Arm 230 is pivotable about an axis defined by pin 206. Arm 230 is shown in its folded or retracted position 240. Arm includes a pair of posts 237 extending in opposite directions at end 234. Similar to post 217, post 237 is pivotally coupled to repositionable portion 300 via recess and connector (not shown) in repositionable portion 300.

[0084] Reference Figure 7 The detachable transport device 400 is connected to the coupling platform 360 of the transport device 110, which is in an unfolded or folded state. In this view, the features of the repositionable portion 300 are readily visible. Specifically, the repositionable portion 300 has a body 310 with an upper side or upper surface 312 extending between a front end 302 and a rear end 304. The upper surface 312 includes a pair of tracks 318 and 324 formed therein. Track 318 is defined between guide rails 314 and 316. Track 324 is defined between guide rails 320 and 322. Tracks 318 and 324 are parallel to each other and extend between the front end 302 and the rear end 304. The body 310 includes an upper member 340 and a lower member 342, between which several chambers or accommodating portions 344 are defined, in which the toy car 90 is located. The connecting member 348 extending downward from the lower member 342 is also... Figure 7 As shown in the image.

[0085] Go to Figure 8 and Figure 9A perspective view of the transport device 110 is shown. The transport device 110 is shown in a flat or unfolded configuration 116 and is placed on a support surface such that wheels 190 engage the support surface. The base portion 120 has a body 130 having an upper side or upper surface 132 extending from the front end to the rear end of the body 130. The upper side 132 has a pair of tracks formed therein. Track 138 is defined between guide rails 134 and 136. Track 144 is defined between guide rails 140 and 142. Located between tracks 138 and 144 is a groove 146 in which an arm 210 can be disposed. The arm 210 is shown in its fully open position 222, which allows the repositionable portion 300 to be arranged end-to-end with the base portion 120. The body 130 includes an upper member 180 and a lower member 182, which define several chambers or accommodating portions 184 therebetween, in which the toy car 90 can be placed. A head member 170 is pivotally connected to the base portion 120 via a pin or shaft 172. The head member 170 is... Figure 8 It is shown as being in its elevated position 176.

[0086] The repositionable portion 300 is disposed at a position 308, in which the repositionable portion 300 and the base portion 120 are arranged end to end. As shown, the body 310 of the repositionable portion 300 includes tracks 318 and 324 formed therein.

[0087] The connection platform 360 has a body 362, which has several features for receiving a portion of a detachable transport device 400, which has been connected to... Figure 8 The connecting platform 360 is separated from the main body 362. The main body 362 has an upper surface 364 with receiving portions 366 and 368 formed therein, in which the toy car can be placed. The upper surface 364 also includes receiving portions 370 for different wheels of the detachable transport device 400. The connecting platform 360 also has features to facilitate the attachment of the detachable transport device 400 thereto. In particular, the main body 362 has a pair of spaced slots 372, the slots 372 being sized such that latches 376 and 378 can extend through and move back and forth therein. Figure 9 The image shows the hook member 382 located at the rear end of the base.

[0088] refer to Figure 10 The main body 362 of the connecting platform 360 has been removed to simplify the description of the various components. The repositionable portion 300 includes several supports slidably connected to and movable relative to the repositionable portion 300. Specifically, the tops of the supports 500, 520, and 540 are at... Figure 10As shown below. (The following text is related to...) Figure 28 and Figure 29 The structure of support members 500, 520, and 540 is described below in relation to... Figures 30 to 36 Describe the movement and function of supports 500, 520 and 540.

[0089] Locking plate 374 is visible when body 362 is removed. In this embodiment, locking plate 374 has latches 376 and 378 integrally formed thereon. Locking plate 374 has slots formed therein, in which biasing member 380, such as a spring, is disposed. Biasing member 380 biases locking plate 374 in the direction of arrow "D", which causes latches 376 and 378 to be held in openings in the lower surface of detachable transport device 400 for coupling detachable transport device 400 to coupling platform 360.

[0090] The connecting platform 360 has a connecting member 388 movably mounted to the connecting platform 360. The connecting member 388 has a pair of upwardly extending posts 390, and when the detachable transport device 400 is placed on the connecting platform 360, the posts 390 engage with the lower surface of the detachable transport device 400. A hook member 382 is pivotally connected to the connecting platform 360 and is movable about a pin or shaft 392. The hook member 382 has a lower end 384 engaged by the connecting member 388 and an opposing upper end 386. When the detachable transport device 400 is placed on the connecting platform 360, it presses downward on the connecting member 388 in the direction of arrow "E", and the connecting member 388 in turn presses downward on the lower end 384. As a result, this movement causes the hook member 382 to pivot about the shaft 392 in the direction of arrow "F". The hook member 382 has two body portions 394, each body portion terminating at a hook 396. When the hook member 382 rotates, the hook 396 engages the detachable transport device 400, and the top of the hook member 382 can be used as a handle.

[0091] Go to Figure 11 The image describes the launch of a toy car. In this view, the rear of the repositionable portion 300 is shown. The repositionable portion 300 includes a first launcher 330 associated with track 318 and a second launcher 334 associated with track 324. Figure 11(Not shown in the image). Launcher 330 has engagement member 332, which is biased to engage with toy car 90 located on track 318. Similarly, launcher 334 has engagement member 336, which is biased to engage with toy car on track 324. When the user presses down on the button or actuator 338 to release the latch, engagement members 332 and 336, which are held in their loaded position by the latch against the bias of one or more springs, are released. As a result, as toy car 90 is propelled along tracks 318 and 324, toy car 90 travels from the rear end of transport device 110 to the front end of transport device 110.

[0092] Reference Figure 12 The diagram shows the front end portion 150 of the transport device 110. The front end portion 150 includes a lower ramp portion 152 located below the head member 170. A tongue-like member 160 is located in a slot 158 ​​within the lower ramp portion 152, which is situated between tracks 154 and 156. Track 154 communicates with tracks 138 and 318. As a result, the toy car 90 can be propelled by the launcher 330 along track 318, then along track 138, and then along track 154. Similarly, track 156 communicates with tracks 144 and 324. As a result, the toy car 90 can be propelled by the launcher 334 along track 324, then along track 144, and then along track 156.

[0093] As described in detail below, the tongue-shaped member 160 moves left and right relative to the front end of the toy car transport device 100. Figure 13 In this position, the head member 170 has been pivoted downward about the axis 172 to its lowered position 178. As the transport device 110 moves along the support surface, its wheels rotate, which drives a gear that serves as input to a drive assembly that causes the tongue 160 to move left and right.

[0094] Go to Figure 14-19 An embodiment of the driving component according to the present invention is shown. First, refer to... Figure 14 The diagram shows a top view of some components of the drive assembly 245. The tongue 160 has an upper surface 162 and an end portion 164 that can be inserted into the front end 252 of the drive member 250. The drive member 250 is mounted for reciprocating movement. The drive member 250 also includes an upwardly extending rod 256 that defines a pivot axis 258 about which the drive member 250 reciprocates in the direction of arrow "G".

[0095] Shaft 194 is coupled to base portion 120 and rotates about its longitudinal axis. Wheels 190 and 192 are mounted to opposite ends of shaft 194. Gear 196 is also coupled to shaft 194, having a plurality of teeth 198 around its periphery, and rotates together with shaft 194 about the longitudinal axis of the shaft.

[0096] The drive assembly includes another shaft 280 parallel to shaft 194. A retaining sleeve 282 is mounted to shaft 280. A biasing member 284, such as a coil spring, engages with retaining sleeve 282. The biasing member 284 also engages with gear 290 mounted on shaft 280. The teeth of gear 290 mesh with the teeth 198 of gear 196. Rotation of gear 196 causes teeth 198 to drive the teeth of gear 290, which in turn cause shaft 280 to rotate about its longitudinal axis.

[0097] Go to Figure 15 The different components of the drive assembly 245 are shown. Figure 15 This is a top view showing the components relative to wheels 190 and 192 and axle 194. Drive assembly 245 includes another gear 294 mounted on axle 280. A biasing member 284 biases gear 290 to engage with gear 294, such that crown teeth formed on gear 290 are biased to engage crown teeth formed on gear 294. As a result, rotation of gear 290 directly causes gear 294 to rotate as well. Crown gear 260 is located near gear 294 and rotates about pivot axis 263. Crown gear 260 has an upper surface 262 from which post 264 extends upward. Post 264 is mounted eccentrically relative to pivot axis 263.

[0098] Go to Figure 16 The diagram shows a bottom view of some components of the drive assembly 245. In this view, the relative positions of gears 196, 290, and 294, and axles 280 and 194, are shown between gears 190 and 192. Gear 294 also includes a series of teeth 296 around its periphery. The drive member 250 includes a body having a downwardly extending wall 274 and a slot 276 for receiving a post 264. As the crown gear 260 rotates, the post 264 also moves relative to the pivot axis 263. The reciprocating movement of the post 264 in the slot 276 and its rotation about the axis 263 drive the body of the drive member 250 to reciprocate about the pivot axis 258.

[0099] Go to Figure 17 and Figure 18 The diagram shows a perspective view of the different components of the drive assembly 245. The front end 252 of the drive member 250 has an opening 254 formed therein, into which the end 164 of the tongue member 160 is inserted. Figure 17As shown, the drive assembly 245 includes a gear housing 270 having a downwardly extending lower portion 271 with an opening 272 formed therein. The gear housing 270... Figure 18 Removed from the middle, Figure 18 Crown gear 260 is shown. Crown gear 260 has a lower end 266 with downwardly oriented teeth 268. Due to opening 272, teeth 268 of crown gear 260 engage teeth 296 of gear 294. Therefore, when the ground engagement member or wheels 190 and 192 rotate, shaft 194 rotates. Due to the engagement of teeth between the different gears of drive assembly 245, when shaft 194 rotates, gear 196 rotates, gear 290 rotates, gear 294 rotates, and crown gear 260 rotates.

[0100] Figure 19 The diagram shows a side view of some components of the drive assembly 245. The front end 252 of the drive member 250 and the upwardly extending rod 256 are shown. The crown gear 260, as described above, engages the drive member 250 via a post 264 that extends upward, while its lower end 266 has teeth 268 extending in the opposite direction. Shafts 194 and 280, as well as wheel 192, are shown in a side view. The outlines of gear 196 with teeth 198 and gear 294 with teeth 296 are also shown.

[0101] Go to Figure 20 The diagram shows a perspective view of the rear of the transport device 110. The repositionable portion 300 is positioned end-to-end with the base portion 120. A connecting platform 360, which engages with the repositionable portion 300, has a toy car 90 mounted thereon. The detachable transport device 400 has been separated from the connecting platform 360 and is held in the separated position 496 by the user. The user has pressed down on the actuator 424, causing the wings 440 and 460 to move upward to their raised positions 444 and 464, respectively.

[0102] The detachable transport device 400 can be used independently on the supporting surface without the toy car transport device 100. Figure 21The diagram shows a perspective view of the detachable transport device 400 itself. The detachable transport device 400 has a body 402, which has an upper portion 404 and a lower portion 406. A left-side clamping member 414 and a right-side clamping member 416 are coupled to the front end of the lower portion 406. A toy car collector 480 is located between the clamping members 414 and 416, which guide toy cars toward the toy car collector 480 when the detachable transport device 400 is pushed along a support surface. The toy car collector 480 includes a hub 482 rotatably mounted on a shaft 484. A plurality of blades 486 extend radially outward from the hub 482. When the hub 482 rotates, the blades move together with the hub 482 about the longitudinal axis of the shaft 484. A drive gear 488 with teeth 489 is rotatably mounted to the body 402. The drive gear 488 is driven by a gear that rotates along with the front wheel 490 as the detachable transport device 400 moves along a support surface. A pair of rear wheels 492 are also present, mounted to the body 402. Figure 21 In the middle, wings 440 and 460 are in their raised position. Wing 440 is coupled to and moves with latching member 450. Latching member 450 has engaging member 454 and latch 456. As described in more detail below, each wing has a track formed therein. As shown, track 468 in wing 460 is configured to receive a toy car.

[0103] Go to Figure 22 The user has grasped the handle 420 and moved the detachable transport device 400 along the support surface. As the detachable transport device 400 is pushed along the support surface, the toy car 90 can be collected by the toy car collector 480. The rotation of the front wheels of the detachable transport device 400 causes the hub 482 and its paddle 486 to rotate, and the paddle 486 scoops the toy car 90 into the inner cavity or receiving part of the body 402.

[0104] Go to Figure 23 The diagram illustrates several different paths for a toy car on a detachable transport device 400. A track 468 on the wing 460 has a toy car 90 traveling along it. The toy car 90 can exit the track 468 into a track inlet 427, then into a track section 427A, from which it travels downwards into a chamber or receiving portion 428 in the body 402. Similarly, the wing 440 has a track 448 formed therein. The toy car can exit the track 448 into a track inlet 426, then into a track section 427A, and subsequently into a receiving portion 428.

[0105] refer to Figure 24-26B The movement of wings 440 and 460 (though not shown in all those figures) is described in more detail. Some components of the detachable transport unit 400 are shown in those figures. Refer first to... Figure 24Wings 440 and 460 (not shown) are connected to latching members 450 and 470, respectively, which are shown in their lowered position. When the user presses the actuator button 424 in the direction of arrow "H", the latching members also move downward in the direction of arrow "H" and release from the latch, allowing wings 440 and 460 and their latching members 450 and 470 to pivot upward relative to the body 402.

[0106] Wing 440 is rotatably mounted to rod 458 having a longitudinal axis 458A. A biasing member 459 (such as a spring) is mounted on rod 458 and biases wing 440 about the longitudinal axis 458A in the direction of arrow "I". Similarly, wing 460 is rotatably mounted to rod 478 having a longitudinal axis 478A. The biasing member ( Figure 24 (Not shown) is mounted on rod 478, and wing 460 is offset about longitudinal axis 478A in the direction of arrow "I".

[0107] Go to Figure 25 and Figure 26 Several additional components of the detachable transport device 400 have been removed to simplify the description of the remaining components. The detachable transport device 400 has a housing 432 adjacent to the vertically movable actuator 424. A plate or tab 445 with a collar 446 is mounted on a rod 458 together with a biasing member 459. Similarly, a plate or tab 465 with a collar 466 is mounted on a rod 478 together with a biasing member 479. Each of the latching members 450 and 470 has an inwardly pointing latch 456 and 476, respectively, which engages a clip on the body 402 of the detachable transport device 400.

[0108] The latch 476 on the latch member 470 is in Figure 25 As shown, and the latch 456 on the latch member 450 is in Figure 26A As shown in the diagram. Latch members 450 and 470 have upper ends 452 and 472, respectively. Each of latch members 450 and 470 has a biasing member, such as a spring, which engages a particular latch member and its corresponding wing to bias the particular latch member upward. Latch member 450 has a biasing member 457 (see...). Figure 25 ), and the latching member 470 has a biasing member 477 (see Figure 26B ).

[0109] refer to Figure 26 , 26ALike 26B, latching member 450 has an upper end 452 with a tab 453 for downwardly driving latching member 450. Similarly, latching member 470 has an upper end 472 with a tab 473 engaged to downwardly drive latching member 479. Actuator 424 extends upward from body 424A, which has two downwardly extending engaging portions, see [reference needed]. Figure 26 The joint portion 425A and Figure 26A The engagement portion 425B is located in the housing. The actuator 424 is slidable relative to the housing 432.

[0110] A pair of engaging members 700 and 720 are disposed below the housing 432, located on opposite sides of the housing 432. (Reference) Figure 26 The engaging member 720 includes a body having an upper end 722, which is a horizontal plate, and a vertical plate extending downward from the upper end 722 to form a lower end 724. The body of the engaging member 720 is coupled to a rod or shaft 730, which defines an axis 735 about which the engaging member 720 is rotatable. In one embodiment, the engaging member 720 is upwardly biased by a biasing member and can be pushed downward about the axis 735 by a downward force applied to the upper end 722. (Reference) Figure 26 , 26A In 26B, the engaging member 700 includes a body having an upper end 702, which is a horizontal plate, and a vertical plate extending downward from the upper end 702 to form a lower end 704. The body of the engaging member 700 is coupled to a rod or shaft 710, which defines an axis 715 about which the engaging member 700 is rotatable. In one embodiment, the engaging member 700 is biased upward by a biasing member and can be pushed downward about the axis 715 by a downward force applied to the upper end 702.

[0111] As described above, latching member 450 is biased upward by its biasing member 457, and latching member 470 is biased upward by its biasing member 477. Figure 26B The image shows a ledge 447 formed on the wing 440, with one end of an offset member 457 connected to the ledge 447. Figure 26 , 26A In 26B, the lower end 704 of the engaging member 700 contacts the tab 453 of the latching member 450. Similarly, the lower end 724 of the engaging member 720 contacts the tab 473 of the latching member 470. (See also...) Figure 26When the user wishes to open the wings 440 and 460 of the detachable transport device 400 to their raised position, the user pushes the actuator 424 downward in the direction of arrow "T". The actuator 424, the body 424A, and the engaging portions 425A and 425B also move downward in the direction of arrow "T". The downward movement of the engaging portions 425A and 425B forces the upper ends 702 and 722 of the engaging members 700 and 720 downward, respectively. This movement causes the engaging member 700 to pivot about axis 715 in the direction of arrow "V" (see...). Figure 26 and 26A ), and the connecting member 720 pivots about axis 735 in the direction of arrow "U" ( Figure 26 ).

[0112] When the engaging member 700 pivots about axis 715, its lower end 704 engages the tab 453 of the latching member 450 and moves the latching member 450 in the direction of arrow "W" against the upward force of the biasing member 457. The movement of the latching member 450 in the direction of arrow "W" causes the latch 456 to disengage from the latch on the body 402, thereby allowing the wing 440 and the latching member 450 to move about axis 458A in the direction of arrow "I" (see...). Figure 24 Pivot to its raised position. When the user wants to lower the wing 440, the user can manually move the wing 440 and the latch member 450 around axis 458A in the direction opposite to arrow "I" until the latch 456 re-engages with the clip on the body 402.

[0113] Similarly, when the engaging member 720 pivots about axis 735, its lower end 724 engages the tab 473 of the latching member 470 and moves the latching member 470 in the direction of arrow "W" against the upward force of the biasing member 477. The movement of the latching member 470 in the direction of arrow "W" causes the latch 476 to disengage from the latch on the body 402, thereby allowing the wing 460 and the latching member 470 to move about axis 478A in the direction of arrow "J" (see...). Figure 24 Pivot to its raised position. When the user wants to lower the wing 460, the user can manually move the wing 460 and the latch member 470 around axis 478A in the direction opposite to arrow "J" until the latch 476 re-engages with the clip on the body 402.

[0114] Reference Figure 27The figure shows a cross-sectional side view of a toy car transport device 100. The conveyor 110, with a pivotally mounted head component 170 and a tongue-shaped component 160, is shown. Arms 210 and 230, which pivotally connect a repositionable portion 300 to a base portion 120, are shown. Details of the toy car collector 480 of the detachable transport device 400 are also shown. A hub 482 is mounted on a shaft 484, with its paddle 486 located below the pivotally mounted head 430. A gear 483 (based on the rotation of the wheels of the detachable transport device 400) driving the hub 482 can be seen located slightly behind the hub 482. Figure 27 Various components of the body 402 of the detachable transport device 400 are shown. A handle 420 and an actuator 424 are attached to the body 402. The body 402 includes a first internal chamber or receiving portion 428 defined by a wall 428A. The receiving portion 428 is accessible via a rear opening 408. A user can insert a toy car into the receiving portion 428 and / or remove a toy car from the receiving portion 428 through the rear opening 408. As described above, the toy car can also enter the receiving portion 428 from tracks in the wings 440 and 460. The body 402 also includes a second internal chamber or receiving portion 429 located between the wall 428A and the lower wall 429A. The receiving portion 429 receives a toy car that has been moved into the body 402 along surface 429B via the toy car collector 480.

[0115] The detachable transport device 400 is mounted to the coupling platform 360. The lower surface 407 of the lower end 384 of the engaging hook member 382 is shown. The actuator 338 is located at the rear of the lower end 384 of the hook member 382, ​​which allows the user to engage the actuator 338 when the detachable transport device 400 is mounted to the coupling platform 360.

[0116] exist Figure 27 In the cross-sectional view, two support members 500 and 540 are shown extending downward from the connecting platform 360. Support member 500 is in its lowered position 518A relative to the connecting platform 360. Similarly, support member 540 is in its lowered position 558A relative to the connecting platform 360. Figures 28 to 36 Support components 500, 520, and 540 are described in detail.

[0117] First refer to Figure 28 and 29Perspective and top views of support members 500, 520, and 540 are shown respectively. Support member 500 has an upper end 502 and a lower end 504 opposite to the upper end 502. Extending between ends 502 and 504 are side surfaces 506 and 508. Side surface 506 has a groove 510 extending therefrom. Similarly, side surface 508 has a groove 512 extending therefrom. Furthermore, side surface 506 has a notch 513 formed therein. At the bottom of support member 500 are flanges 514 and 516, which extend outward in opposite directions from side surfaces 506 and 508, respectively. Support member 500 has a tab 503 extending upward from the upper end 502. In this embodiment, tab 503 has outwardly extending protrusions 505A and 505B on opposite sides of tab 503. Protrusions 505A and 505B are used to mount or connect support 500 to connection platform 360.

[0118] The support member 520 has an upper end 522 and a lower end 524 opposite to the upper end 522. Extending between ends 522 and 524 are side surfaces 526 and 528. In this embodiment, only side surface 526 has a groove 530 extending therefrom. Extending upward from the upper end 522 of the support member 520 is a tab 523. The tab 523 has outwardly extending protrusions 525A and 525B on opposite sides of the tab 523. Protrusions 525A and 525B are used for mounting or coupling the support member 520 to the coupling platform 360.

[0119] The support member 540 has an upper end 542 and a lower end 544 opposite to the upper end 542. Extending between ends 542 and 544 are side surfaces 546 and 548. Side surface 546 has a groove 550 extending therefrom. Similarly, side surface 548 has a groove 552 extending therefrom. Furthermore, side surface 546 has a notch 553 formed therein. At the bottom of the support member 540 are flanges 554 and 556, which extend outward in opposite directions from sides 546 and 548, respectively. The support member 540 has a tab 543 extending upward from the upper end 542. Tab 543 has outwardly extending protrusions 545A and 545B on opposite sides for mounting or coupling the support member 540 to the coupling platform 360.

[0120] Support members 500, 520, and 540 are coupled to the coupling platform 360 and slidably mounted in the repositionable portion 300. Support members 500, 520, and 540 are movable relative to the repositionable portion 300 between their lowered and raised positions. [Go to...] Figure 30 The image shows a top view of the repositionable portion 300. The repositionable portion 300 has a body 310 with an upper surface 312 and is formed by an upper member 340 and a lower member 342. Figure 30In the diagram, the top view is a top view of the upper member 340, and only a small portion of the lower member 342 is shown. The body 310 (including the upper member 340 and the lower member 342) has three slots formed therethrough, each slot having one of the supports 500, 520, and 540 slidably mounted therein. Slot 325 is configured to slidably receive the support 500 and has tracks 325A and 325B that respectively engage recesses 510 and 512. Slot 326 is configured to slidably receive the support 520 and has guide rails 326A and 326B, wherein guide rail 326A engages the recess 530 of the support 520. Slot 327 is configured to slidably receive the support 540 and has tracks 327A and 327B that respectively engage recesses 550 and 552.

[0121] Go to Figure 31 and Figure 32 This shows a bottom view of the 360-degree connection platform. Figure 31 The image shows the bottom surface 365 of the body 362 of the connecting platform 360. Extending from the bottom surface 365 are three mounting structures 600, 620, and 640, to which support members 500, 520, and 540 are respectively connected, as shown below. Figure 32 As shown.

[0122] refer to Figure 31 In this embodiment, the mounting structure 600 has a wall 602 defining a receiving portion 604. A slot 606 is defined in and formed through a body 362 and communicates with the receiving portion 604. A pair of protrusions 608 and 610 extend inwardly from opposite sides of the slot 606 into the slot 606. When the support member 500 is inserted into the mounting structure 600, the support member 500 can be coupled to the coupling platform 360. The upper end 502 of the support member 500 is inserted into the receiving portion 604, and the tab 503 engages the slot 606, causing protrusions 505A and 505B to engage and pass over protrusions 608 and 610, respectively. The engagement of protrusions 505A and 505B with protrusions 608 and 610 retains the support member 500 mounted to the coupling platform 360. In order to separate the support member 500 from the connecting platform 360, the user can pull down the support member 500 so that the protrusions 505A and 505B pass over and detach from the protrusions 608 and 610.

[0123] The support member 520 is similarly mounted to the coupling platform 360. The mounting structure 620 has a wall 622 defining a receiving portion 624. A slot 626 is defined in and formed through the body 362 and communicates with the receiving portion 624. A pair of protrusions 628 and 630 extend inwardly from opposite sides of the slot 626 into the slot 626. When the support member 520 is inserted into the mounting structure 620, the support member 520 can be coupled to the coupling platform 360. The upper end 522 of the support 520 is inserted into the receiving portion 624, and the tab 523 engages the slot 626, causing the protrusions 525A and 525B to engage and pass over the protrusions 628 and 630, respectively. The engagement of the protrusions 525A and 525B with the protrusions 628 and 630 maintains the support member 520 mounted to the coupling platform 360. To separate the support member 520 from the connecting platform 360, the user can pull the support member 520 down so that the protrusions 525A and 525B pass over and detach from the protrusions 628 and 630.

[0124] The support member 540 is similarly mounted to the connecting platform 360. The mounting structure 640 has a wall 642 defining a receiving portion 644. A slot 646 is defined in and formed through the body 362 and communicates with the receiving portion 644. A pair of protrusions 648 and 650 extend inwardly from opposite sides of the slot 646 into the slot 646. When the support member 540 is inserted into the mounting structure 640, the support member 540 can be coupled to the connecting platform 360. The upper end 542 of the support member 540 is inserted into the receiving portion 644, and the tab 543 engages the slot 646, causing protrusions 545A and 545B to engage and pass over protrusions 648 and 650, respectively. The engagement of protrusions 545A and 545B with protrusions 648 and 650 maintains the support member 540 mounted to the connecting platform 360. To separate the support member 540 from the connecting platform 360, the user can pull down the support member 540 so that the protrusions 545A and 545B pass over and detach from the protrusions 648 and 650.

[0125] Go to Figure 33-36 This shows a perspective view illustrating the movement and position of supports 500, 520, and 540. First refer to... Figure 33 The user has grasped the repositionable portion 300 and moved it relative to the base portion 120. The repositionable portion 300 is... Figure 33The repositionable portion 300 is positioned in the middle, 307. The user can move the repositionable portion 300 in the direction of arrow "K" to position it in its folded position 306 on top of the base portion 120. Alternatively, the user can move the repositionable portion 300 in the direction of arrow "L" to position it in its unfolded or folded position 308, where it is arranged end-to-end with the base portion 120. Movement of the repositionable portion 300 relative to the base portion 120 is achieved via connecting arms 210 and 230, which, as described above, are connected to portions 120 and 300. Figure 33 Notably, the detachable transport device 400 has been separated and detached from the connecting platform 360. When the connecting platform 360 (via the detachable transport device 400) is not used to move the repositionable portion 300 relative to the base portion 120, the supports 500, 520, and 540 extend downward from the repositionable portion 300. In other operations, when the repositionable portion 300 moves in the direction of arrow "M", the supports 500, 520, and 540 move to their lowered positions in the direction of arrow "N". Figure 33 In the image, only the supports 500 and 540 are shown in their respective lowered positions 518A and 558A.

[0126] refer to Figure 34 and Figure 35 The connecting platform 360 and the repositionable portion 300 are shown in their deployed position 308. In this position 308, the repositionable portion 300 engages a support surface. The lower ends 504, 524, and 544 of the downwardly extending supports 500, 520, and 540 mounted to the connecting platform 360 engage the support surface and force the supports 500, 520, and 540 to their raised positions 518B, 538B, and 558B, respectively, in the direction of arrow "O". Some features of the connecting platform 360 are also shown in... Figure 34 As shown in the diagram. Specifically, the upper surface 364 of the coupling platform 360 has latches 376 and 378 extending through it. Figure 35 In the middle, the detachable transport device 400 is connected to the latches 376 and 378 of the coupling platform 360.

[0127] Go to Figure 36The repositionable portion 300, shown in its intermediate position 307, can be moved by the user in the direction of arrow "K" or arrow "L". While portions of connecting arms 210 and 230 are shown, the base portion 120 is not shown. When the user grasps the handle of the detachable transport device 400 and lifts it upward to move the repositionable portion 300 in the direction of arrow "K", the connecting platform 360 is also lifted upward because it is connected to the detachable transport device 400. Supports 500, 520, and 540, mounted to the lower surface 365 of the connecting platform 360, also move to their raised positions 518B, 538B, and 558B, respectively, where they extend upward above the top of the repositionable portion 300. In these positions, the lower ends 504 and 544 of the supports 500 and 540 extend downward below the lower surface of the lower member 342. Flanges 514 and 516 on support 500 and flanges 554 and 556 on support 540 restrict the upward movement of supports 500 and 540 relative to repositionable member 300 (and thus also restrict the upward movement of coupling platform 360).

[0128] By slidably mounting the supports 500, 520, and 540 relative to the repositionable element 300, the risk of user fingers forming a pinch between the arms 210 and 230 and portions 120 and 300 is reduced when the user moves the repositionable portion 300 and the detachable transport device 400 back to the folded position 306 on top of the base portion 120. This risk reduction is due to the fact that the supports 500, 520, and 540 are movably mounted rather than fixedly in place.

[0129] While the toy vehicle bodies presented herein are illustrated and described in detail with reference to specific embodiments thereof, they are not intended to be limited to the details shown, as it will be apparent that various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of this disclosure and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. Furthermore, various features from one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment. That is, it is believed that the foregoing disclosure covers multiple different embodiments with independent utility. While each of these embodiments has been disclosed in preferred form, the specific embodiments disclosed and shown herein should not be considered limiting, as many variations are possible. The subject matter of this 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 be interpreted broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of this disclosure set forth in the appended claims.

[0130] Furthermore, it should be understood that terms such as “first,” “second,” “left,” “right,” “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear,” “side,” “height,” “length,” “width,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” “next,” and “external” as may be used herein are merely descriptive of reference points and do not limit this disclosure to any particular orientation or configuration. Additionally, the term “exemplary” is used herein to describe examples or illustrations. Any embodiment described herein as exemplary should not be construed as a preferred or advantageous embodiment, but rather as an example or illustration of a possible embodiment of this disclosure.

[0131] Furthermore, when used herein, the term “comprising” and its derivatives (such as “including,” “contains,” “comprises,” etc.) should not be construed as having an exclusionary meaning; that is, these terms should not be interpreted as excluding the possibility that the described and defined content may include additional elements, steps, etc. Similarly, in any description of a “one” or “first” element or its equivalent, such disclosure should be understood to include a combination of one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements. Meanwhile, when used herein, the term “about” and its family of terms (such as “approximately”, etc.) should be understood to indicate values ​​very close to those accompanying the foregoing term. That is, deviations from precise values ​​within reasonable limits should be accepted, as those skilled in the art will understand that such deviations from the indicated values ​​are unavoidable due to measurement inaccuracies, etc. This also applies to the terms “about,” “approximately,” and “substantially.” For example, the term “about” may indicate a tolerance of ±0.002 inches, 0.001 inches, or up to 0.005 inches, or similarly, the term may indicate a tolerance of approximately + / -1.0%. This also applies to the terms “about” and “approximately” and “basically”. Furthermore, 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).

Claims

1. A reconfigurable toy car transport device, comprising: A first transport device, capable of being reconfigured between a first configuration and a second configuration, the first transport device comprising: The base portion includes a first surface having a first track, and the base portion includes a first compartment therein for storing a toy car; and A repositionable portion movably connected to the base portion, the repositionable portion having a second compartment for storing a toy car, the repositionable portion including a second surface having a second track, the repositionable portion being arranged in a first position above the first surface of the base portion, and in the second position, the repositionable portion being arranged end-to-end with the base portion, wherein the first track and the second track are aligned and continuous; and A second transport device is detachably connected to the first transport device, wherein the second transport device has a third compartment in which the toy car can be stored.

2. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 1, wherein, The first transport device includes a first arm and a second arm, each of which is pivotally connected to the base portion and also pivotally connected to the repositionable portion, and the repositionable portion is movable relative to the base portion by movement of the first arm and the second arm.

3. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 2, wherein, The first arm is connected to the base portion at a first positioning point and to the repositionable portion at a second positioning point, the second arm is connected to the base portion at a third positioning point and to the repositionable portion at a fourth positioning point, the first positioning point being in front of the third positioning point and the second positioning point being in front of the fourth positioning point.

4. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 2, wherein, The base portion has a first slot, and the repositionable portion has a second slot, and when the repositionable portion is in a first position above the base portion, the first arm and the second arm are located in the first slot and the second slot, respectively.

5. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 1, wherein, The base portion has an outlet opening communicating with the first track, the repositionable portion has a launcher near the second track, and when the repositionable portion is in its second position, the launcher can be actuated to launch the toy car along the second track, then along the first track, and then through the outlet opening.

6. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 1, wherein, The second transport device includes a body with an entrance through which the toy car can be collected from a support surface.

7. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 1, wherein, The second transport device includes a body having a first side and a second side opposite to the first side. The body includes a first wing pivotally mounted to the first side, a second wing pivotally mounted to the second side, and an input member that can be actuated to pivot the first wing and the second wing relative to the body of the second transport device.

8. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 7, wherein, The body includes an internal accommodating portion, the first wing includes a first track portion oriented toward the internal accommodating portion, and the toy car can be placed on the first track portion of the first wing and can travel from the first wing to the internal accommodating portion.

9. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 1, wherein, The repositionable portion includes a retaining member pivotally connected to the repositionable portion, and the retaining member engages the second transport device when the second transport device is placed on the first transport device.

10. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 1, wherein, The first transport device has a locking member, and the second transport device has a release mechanism that can be actuated to separate the second transport device from the first transport device.

11. A reconfigurable toy car transport device, comprising: A first transport device, capable of being reconfigured between a first configuration and a second configuration, the first transport device comprising: The base includes a first compartment in which the toy car can be stored; and A repositionable portion movably connected to the base, the repositionable portion having a second compartment for storing a toy car, the repositionable portion being arrangable in a first position above the base and a second position opposite to the base; and A second transport device is detachably connected to the first transport device, wherein the second transport device has a third compartment for storing toy cars and a toy car inlet mechanism for collecting toy cars from a support surface.

12. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 11, wherein, The first transport device includes an arm that is pivotally connected to the base and pivotally connected to the repositionable portion, and the repositionable portion is movable relative to the base via the arm.

13. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 11, wherein, The base has a first track, the repositionable portion has a second track, and when the repositionable portion is in its second position, the second track is aligned with the first track.

14. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 13, wherein, The base has an outlet opening communicating with the first track, the repositionable portion has a launcher near the second track, and when the repositionable portion is in its second position, the launcher can be actuated to launch the toy car along the second track, then along the first track, and then through the outlet opening.

15. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 12, wherein, The second transport device includes a body, an actuator, and an internal housing. The body has a wing that is pivotally mounted thereon. The actuator can be engaged by a user to move the wing relative to the body of the second transport device. The internal housing receives a toy car that travels along the wing into the internal housing.

16. A reconfigurable toy car transport device, comprising: A first transport device, the first transport device comprising: A base having an upper surface with tracks formed therein, the base including a first compartment in which a toy car can be stored; and A repositionable portion movably connected to a base, the repositionable portion having a second compartment for storing a toy car, the repositionable portion having its own upper surface having a track formed therein, the repositionable portion being arrangable in a first position above the base and a second position end-to-end with the base, wherein the tracks are aligned and continuous, the repositionable portion including a launcher actuable to propel the toy car along the track on the repositionable portion and then along the track on the base; and A second transport device is detachably connected to the first transport device, wherein the second transport device has a third compartment in which the toy car can be stored.

17. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 16, wherein, The second transport device includes a body having an entrance through which toy cars can be collected from a support surface, and the body having a first internal accommodating portion in which the collected toy cars are arranged.

18. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 17, wherein, The body has a wing that is pivotally mounted to the body, and an actuator that can engage to pivot the wing relative to the body. The wing includes a track portion pointing toward a second internal receiving portion in the body, such that a toy car placed on the track portion travels from the wing to the second internal receiving portion.

19. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 16, wherein, The repositionable portion includes a retaining member pivotally connected to the repositionable portion, and the retaining member engages the second transport device when the second transport device is placed on the first transport device.

20. The reconfigurable toy car transport device according to claim 16, wherein, The first transport device has a locking member, and the second transport device includes a release mechanism that can be actuated to separate the second transport device from the first transport device.

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