Carrier vehicle and toy vehicle kit for collecting objects from surface

Abstract

A carrier vehicle for collecting objects from a surface is provided herein. The carrier vehicle has a vehicle body formed with at least one opening for receiving at least one object. The vehicle body is further provided with a storage area used for containing at least one object. And a collector assembly that directs the at least one object into the storage area. The collector assembly has a rotatable input member to which a plurality of object guide members are connected for rotation therewith. Each object guide member is resilient and laterally flexible such that when the object guide member rotates with the input member and the at least one object enters the opening, at least some of the plurality of object guide members laterally deforms around and captures the at least one object to guide the at least one object toward the storage area.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to toys for picking up play objects from a support surface, such as the ground, etc. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a vehicle for collecting objects from a surface. Background Art

[0002] Toy cars, especially those in the form of trucks with storage beds, have provided a great deal of fun and playtime for preschoolers for years. Children use trucks to load blocks and other objects into them and also use them in places like sandboxes.

[0003] The prior art includes various "pickup" toys that can collect and store objects placed on a surface. In one example, the pickup toy is a pick-up vehicle that has a mechanism that automatically picks up game objects and deposits them into a receptacle on the vehicle as the vehicle moves over a supporting surface. (U.S. Patent No. 4,031,659, Marvin Glass and Associates, November 10, 1975). In another example, the pick-up toy is a wheeled push-type toy that can simulate a lawn mower and has an impeller that rotates to engage the objects to be picked up and flip them up a ramp into a collection container (U.S. Patent No. 3,959,922, Mattel Inc., May 16, 1975). In another example, the pick-up toy is a toy device for picking up objects from a flat surface, wherein the device has a set of wheels driving rotating blades that are adapted to move the objects upward along a guide plate toward a dark box. The blades are relatively rigid and include integral hinges spaced from the impeller's axis of rotation (US Pat. No. 5,378,191, Interlego AG, Dec. 3, 1991).

[0004] The above-mentioned examples of prior art have in common that they all include impellers with rigid blades, which means that these devices are only suitable for picking up round objects because if the impeller encounters a box-shaped block, it will usually run over the block instead of moving it into the dark box. Therefore, these devices are not suitable for picking up irregularly shaped toy cars or building blocks of toy building sets, where the building blocks may be box-shaped. In addition, these devices have the disadvantage that their dynamic range (i.e., the difference between the largest and smallest objects that can be picked up by the device) is quite limited.

[0005] It is therefore an object of the present disclosure to provide a vehicle for collecting objects from a surface. Utility Model Content

[0006] According to one aspect, a carrier is provided for collecting at least one object on a surface, the carrier comprising: a body having: at least one opening formed thereon, the at least one opening being sized to receive at least one object therethrough; and a storage area for accommodating the at least one object; and a collector assembly configured to guide the at least one object into the storage area of ​​the body, the collector assembly comprising: an input member rotatably connected to the body for rotation about a first axis in at least a first rotational direction; and a plurality of object guide members connected to the input member for rotation therewith, each of the plurality of object guide members comprising at least one lateral side, the plurality of object guide members being elastic and laterally flexible such that when the plurality of object guide members are driven to rotate in the first rotational direction and at least one object is received through the at least one opening, at least some of the plurality of object guide members deform laterally around the at least one object and capture the at least one object to guide the at least one object toward the storage area.

[0007] Optionally, the input member is configured to be rotatably mounted to an axle of the vehicle body, and the plurality of object guide members are mounted on the axle. Optionally, the plurality of object guide members are a plurality of guide discs, and the plurality of guide discs are mounted on the axle such that each guide disc extends radially outward from the axle. Optionally, each of the plurality of object guide members includes a connecting hub centrally located thereon, the connecting hub including a mounting hole sized to receive a shaft therethrough. Optionally, the connecting hub is configured to releasably connect the object guide member to at least one adjacent object guide member of the plurality of object guide members such that the plurality of object guide members rotate together about a first axis. Optionally, a first side of the connecting hub includes a key, and a second side of the connecting hub includes a keyway for receiving a key of an adjacent object guide member of the plurality of object guide members.

[0008] Optionally, the at least one opening is formed at a front end of the vehicle body.

[0009] Optionally, the vehicle further comprises at least one motor, and the at least one motor is operatively connected to the input member for driving rotation of the shaft in at least a first rotational direction. Optionally, the input member is configured as a shaft; and wherein the motor element is connected to the shaft via a drive gear train. Optionally, the motor element is a non-electric motor. Optionally, the motor element is an electric motor.

[0010] According to another aspect, a toy vehicle kit is provided, comprising: at least one toy object; and a carrier vehicle for collecting the at least one toy object on a surface, the carrier vehicle comprising: a vehicle body having: at least one opening formed therein, the at least one opening sized to receive the at least one object therethrough; and a storage area for accommodating the at least one object; and a collector assembly configured to guide the at least one object into the storage area of ​​the vehicle body, the collector assembly comprising: an input member rotatably connected to the vehicle body for rotation about a first axis in at least a first rotational direction; and a plurality of object guide members connected to the input member for rotation therewith, each of the plurality of object guide members comprising at least one lateral side, the plurality of object guide members having lateral flexibility such that when the plurality of object guide members are driven to rotate in the first rotational direction and the at least one object is received through the at least one opening, at least some of the plurality of object guide members deform laterally around the at least one object and capture the at least one object between the mutually facing lateral sides of the plurality of object guide members to guide the at least one object toward the storage area.

[0011] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0013] Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a vehicle of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 1B Shown Figure 1A A front view of an embodiment of a carrier vehicle, wherein the carrier vehicle is stationary on a surface;

[0015] Figure 1C Shown Figure 1A A bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a carrier vehicle;

[0016] Figure 2A Shown Figure 1B A cutaway perspective view of an embodiment of a carrier vehicle, wherein the cutaway view is taken along line AA;

[0017] Figure 2B Shown Figure 2A An inverted cutaway perspective view of an embodiment of a carrier provided in , wherein the cutaway is also taken along line AA;

[0018] Figure 3 Shows the object in Figure 1A A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a carrier vehicle being guided between a pair of object guide members;

[0019] Figure 4A Shown Figure 1AA side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a carrier vehicle;

[0020] Figure 4B Shown Figure 1A a side cross-sectional view of a collector assembly of an embodiment of a carrier vehicle in FIG; and

[0021] Figure 5 Shown Figure 4A A front cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the carrier vehicle in , wherein the cross-sectional view is taken along line BB. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] For brevity and clarity of explanation, reference numerals may be repeated in the figures to indicate corresponding or similar elements, where deemed appropriate. In addition, many specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiment or embodiments described herein. However, it should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein may be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, procedures, and components are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments described herein. It should first be understood that although exemplary embodiments are shown in the drawings and described below, the principles of the present disclosure may be implemented using a variety of technologies, whether currently known or unknown. The present disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary embodiments and technologies shown in the drawings and described below.

[0023] Unless the context indicates otherwise, the various terms used in this specification should be read and understood as follows: "or" as used throughout is inclusive, just as if written as "and / or"; singular articles and pronouns used throughout include their plural forms and vice versa; similarly, gender pronouns include their counterparts, and thus the pronouns should not be understood as limiting anything described herein to use, implementation, performance, etc. by a single gender; "exemplary" should be understood as "illustrative" or "illustrative," not necessarily "preferred" over other embodiments. Further definitions of terms may be listed herein; these definitions may apply to prior and subsequent instances of these terms, as can be understood from a reading of this specification. It should also be noted that the use of the term "a" or "an" should be understood to mean "at least one" in all cases, unless expressly stated otherwise or unless it is obvious that it must mean "one."

[0024] As used herein, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" should be interpreted as inclusive and open-ended, rather than exclusive. Specifically, when used in the specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and their variations indicate the inclusion of specified features, steps, or components. These terms should not be interpreted as excluding the presence of other features, steps, or components.

[0025] As used herein, the terms "about" and "approximately" are intended to encompass possible variations in the upper and lower limits of a range of values, such as variations in properties, parameters, and dimensions.

[0026] The systems, devices, and methods described herein may be modified, added to, or omitted without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, the components of the systems and devices may be integrated or separated. Furthermore, the operations of the systems and devices disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components, and the methods described may include more, fewer, or other steps. Furthermore, the steps may be performed in any suitable order. In this document, "each" refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set.

[0027] The embodiments described herein are exemplary (e.g., in terms of materials, shapes, sizes, and construction details) and are not limited by the appended claims and any modifications thereto. Those skilled in the art will recognize that there are many more possible alternative implementations and modifications, and the following examples are merely illustrative of one or more implementations. Accordingly, the scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the appended claims and any modifications thereto.

[0028] refer to Figures 1A to 5 , a delivery vehicle 10 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. In this embodiment, the delivery vehicle 10 is used to collect at least one object 80 on a surface 11. The delivery vehicle 10 includes a vehicle body 12 having a storage area 18 for accommodating the at least one object 80 and at least one opening 20 formed on the vehicle body 12. The at least one opening 20 is sized to receive the at least one object 80 therethrough. The delivery vehicle 10 also includes a collector assembly 40 configured to guide the at least one object 80 into the storage area 18 of the vehicle body 12. In this embodiment, the collector assembly 40 includes an input member 42 rotatably connected to the vehicle body 12 for rotation about a first axis (A1) in at least a first rotational direction (FRD).

[0029] The collector assembly 40 further includes a plurality of object guide members 44 connected to the input member 42 for rotation therewith. Each of the plurality of object guide members 44 includes at least one lateral side 43. The plurality of object guide members 44 are configured to be resilient and laterally flexible such that when the plurality of object guide members 44 are driven to rotate in a first rotational direction and at least one object 80 is received through the at least one opening 20, at least some of the plurality of object guide members 44 deform laterally around the at least one object 80 and capture the at least one object 80 to guide the at least one object 80 toward the storage area 18.

[0030] In other words, the at least one object 80 is captured between the mutually facing lateral sides 43 of the plurality of object guiding members 44 to guide the at least one object 80 toward the storage area 18 of the vehicle 10 .

[0031] In one embodiment, the vehicle body 12 of the vehicle 10 is formed to be substantially rigid. The vehicle body 12 defines an interior cavity 22 (e.g., Figure 1C 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown in FIG. 1 , the interior cavity 22 is connected to at least one opening 20 of the vehicle body 12. The interior cavity 22 at least partially houses the collector assembly 40 of the vehicle 10. Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the interior cavity 22 of the vehicle body 12 is sufficiently large to permit the input member 42 and the plurality of object directing members 44 to rotate therein in a first rotational direction.

[0032] In additional embodiments, the at least one opening 20 formed in the vehicle body 12 is positioned toward the front end of the vehicle body 12. In this manner, the vehicle 10 can collect at least one object 80 from the surface 11 as the vehicle 10 moves in a forward direction.

[0033] exist Figures 1A to 2B and Figures 4A to 5 In the specific embodiment provided, the vehicle body 12 is in the form of a pickup truck having a simulated passenger portion 12a. The vehicle body 12 is configured such that at least one opening 20 is formed at the front end of the vehicle body 12, below the simulated passenger portion 12a. The at least one opening 20 is a single opening 20a, and the single opening 20a is positioned toward the bottommost surface 11 of the vehicle body 12, such that the single opening 20a is positioned between a first set of wheels 30 of the delivery vehicle 10. The vehicle body 12 also includes an open-top receiver 18a positioned toward the rear of the vehicle body 12. The open-top receiver 18a defines a storage area 18 of the delivery vehicle 10 and is formed by a pair of side walls 18b, a bottom wall 18c, and a rear wall 18d.

[0034] In one embodiment, the vehicle 10 is configured to resemble an animal. To achieve this animal-like resemblance, the vehicle 10 includes at least one decorative accessory 16 that is attached to a portion of the vehicle body 12 and is configured to resemble a recognizable aspect of the animal to which the vehicle 10 resembles. The at least one decorative element may be removably attached to the vehicle body 12 or may be integrally attached to the vehicle body 12.

[0035] exist Figures 1A to 2B as well as Figures 4A to 5In the particular embodiment provided, the at least one decorative accessory 16 includes a plurality of fang elements 16a.

[0036] In e.g. Figures 1A to 2B In the illustrated embodiment, the vehicle 10 is a wheeled vehicle 10 that includes at least a first set of wheels 30. The first set of wheels 30 is rotatably connected to the vehicle body 12 for supporting the vehicle 10 on a surface 11.

[0037] In such Figures 1A to 2B and Figures 4A to 5 In the additional embodiment shown, the vehicle 10 also includes a second set of wheels 32 that are also rotatably connected to the body 12 .

[0038] exist Figures 1A to 2B as well as Figures 4A to 5 In the particular embodiment provided, the first set of wheels 30 is a pair of front wheels 30a rotatably mounted beneath the simulated passenger portion 12a of the vehicle body 12, and the second set of wheels 32 is a pair of rear wheels 32a rotatably mounted beneath the storage area 18. The pair of front wheels 30a are mounted on a pair of front axles 31 journaled to the vehicle body 12 within apertures formed therein. The front wheels 30a are fixed to the axles for common rotation. Similarly, the rear wheels 32a are mounted on a rear axle journaled to apertures formed in the vehicle body 12.

[0039] In one embodiment, at least one of the first set of wheels 30 and the second set of wheels 32 is comprised of PVC blades.

[0040] Despite Figures 1A to 5 In the vehicle 10 shown in FIG, two sets of wheels (e.g., a first set of wheels 30 and a second set of wheels 32) are shown, but the vehicle 10 can have more or fewer wheels, and the wheels may or may not be in sets of two. In addition, the wheel sets can have more than two wheels, such as three, four, etc.

[0041] Although Figures 1A to 2B and Figures 4A to 5 The exemplary embodiment provided in FIG shows the delivery vehicle 10 as a wheeled vehicle having wheels for rolling along the surface 11, but the delivery vehicle 10 may alternatively be configured as a vehicle that slides along the surface 11, or as a stationary vehicle. In embodiments where the delivery vehicle 10 is a stationary vehicle, the at least one object 80 is configured to travel into the at least one opening 20 in the vehicle body 12 so that the collector assembly 40 can direct the at least one object 80 into the storage area 18.

[0042] Now refer to Figures 2A to 2B, a cutaway view of an example collector assembly 40 of a delivery vehicle 10 is shown. The collector assembly 40 is disposed within the interior cavity 22 of the vehicle body 12. The at least one opening 20 is a single opening 20a positioned toward the bottom surface 11 of the vehicle body 12. The single opening 20a provides a space below the front portion of the vehicle body 12 through which at least one object 80 can pass. The at least one object 80 can then be guided by the plurality of object guide members 44 of the collector assembly 40 (when the input member 42 and the plurality of object guide members 44 rotate in a first rotational direction).

[0043] In such Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B and Figure 5 In the additional embodiment shown, the interior cavity 22 includes an opening portion 22a defining at least one opening 20, and a storage area 18 (ie, a storage area 18) disposed in the vehicle body 12 and extending between the opening portion 22a and the storage area 18. Figure 1A 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A and Figure 4B The channel portion 22b provides communication between the at least one opening 20, the collector assembly 40, and the interior of the storage area 18 so that at least one object 80 can be directed from outside the vehicle 10 into the storage area 18 through the collector assembly 40. Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B and Figure 5 In the particular embodiment shown, the channel portion 22 b defines the area of ​​the interior cavity 22 that houses the collector assembly 40 .

[0044] In such Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B and Figure 5 In the additional embodiment shown, the vehicle body 12 further includes a guide ramp 24 extending along a bottom region of the interior cavity 22 of the vehicle body 12. The guide ramp 24 has an arcuate shape and extends within the channel portion 22 b from the bottom region of the interior cavity 22 to the entrance of the storage area 18. The guide ramp 24 assists the collector assembly 40 in guiding at least one object 80 into the storage area 18. When the mutually facing lateral sides 43 of the object guide member 44 engage the at least one object 80, the at least one object 80 is guided along the channel portion 22 b, upward along the guide ramp 24, and into the storage area 18.

[0045] In such Figures 1A to 5In the illustrated embodiment, the input member 42 of the vehicle 10 is configured as a shaft 42a. The shaft 42a is rotatably mounted to the vehicle body 12 so that it can rotate relative to the vehicle body 12 in at least a first direction. The shaft 42a supports a plurality of object guide members 44, and the plurality of object guide members 44 are mounted on the shaft 42a. Figure 5 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the vehicle body 12 includes a pair of mounting holes in which bearings 41 are mounted. The shaft 42a is configured so that each end of the shaft 42a can be rotatably received in one of the bearings 41 located within the pair of mounting holes. In this way, the shaft 42a is rotatably mounted to the vehicle body 12.

[0046] In one embodiment, the vehicle 10 further includes a drive element operatively connected to the input member 42 for driving the input member 42 to rotate in at least a first rotational direction.

[0047] In some embodiments of the vehicle 10 in which the vehicle 10 includes at least a first set of wheels 30, the drive element is configured to rotate the input member 42 and the plurality of object guide members 44 independently of the first set of wheels 30. In this embodiment, the drive element is operatively connected to the input member 42 such that the input member 42 is driven to rotate in a first rotational direction independent of the rotation of the first set of wheels 30.

[0048] In some other embodiments of the vehicle 10 in which the vehicle 10 includes at least a first set of wheels 30, the drive element is configured such that the input member 42 (and thus the plurality of object guide members 44) is rotatably coupled to the first set of wheels 30. Specifically, some or all of the wheels in the first set of wheels 30 may be rotatably coupled directly or through a gear train 33 (e.g., Figure 5 ) is coupled to the input member 42 of the collector assembly 40 such that the input member 42 and the plurality of object guide members 44 will rotate in the first rotational direction due to the rotation of the first set of wheels 30.

[0049] exist Figure 5 In the particular example provided, the gear train 33 includes at least a first gear rotatably coupled to the first set of wheels 30 and a second gear meshing with the first gear and mounted to the shaft 42 a of the input member 42 .

[0050] like Figures 1A to 2B and Figures 4A to 5 As shown in the embodiments of FIG, movement of the collector assembly 40 (i.e., rotation of the input member 42 and the plurality of object guide members 44 in a first rotational direction) is driven by movement of the vehicle 10. In these same embodiments, the drive element and the first set of wheels 30 are both included in the first wheel assembly.

[0051] In another additional embodiment, the first set of wheels 30 are rotatably coupled to the input member 42 of the collector assembly 40 via a drive element. In this embodiment, the drive element functions to provide a rotatable coupling. The drive element is configured such that when the first set of wheels 30 rotate relative to the vehicle body 12, the input member 42 is driven to rotate in at least a first rotational direction. For example, the drive element may be configured as a gear train that rotatably couples the input member 42 (e.g., shaft 42a) to the axle of the first set of wheels 30.

[0052] In another embodiment, the drive element is configured such that when the delivery vehicle 10 moves in a first direction, the input member 42 (and therefore the plurality of object guide members 44) rotates in a first rotational direction, and when the delivery vehicle 10 moves in a second direction, the input member 42 (and therefore the plurality of object guide members 44) rotates in a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction. For example, when the delivery vehicle 10 moves forward, the at least one object 80 in its path may be collected, and when the delivery vehicle 10 moves backward, the at least one object contained within the interior cavity 22 of the vehicle body 12 may be dispersed. Alternatively, when the delivery vehicle 10 moves backward, the at least one object 80 in its path may be collected, and when the delivery vehicle 10 moves forward, the at least one object 80 stored in the delivery vehicle 10 may be dispersed.

[0053] In one embodiment, the vehicle 10 is configured as a push cart such that the first set of wheels 30 and the axle to which the first set of wheels 30 are mounted (as part of a first wheel assembly) can be rotated relative to the vehicle body 12 by a user pushing the vehicle 10 along the surface 11. When the vehicle 10 is configured as a push cart, the user pushes the vehicle 10 along the surface 11, which drives the input member 42 and the plurality of object guide members 44 to rotate. For example, when the user pushes the vehicle 10 along the surface 11, the motion can be transferred to the first set of wheels 30, which in turn transfers the motion to the input member 42 and causes the plurality of object guide members 44 to rotate in a first rotational direction such that at least one object 80 (which is positioned along the path of the vehicle 10) can be collected and directed into the storage area 18 of the vehicle 10.

[0054] Although the above embodiments are specific to a mechanically driven object guide member 44 powered by a user pushing the vehicle 10, electricity can be used to drive the movement of the collector assembly 40 and / or the movement of the entire vehicle 10. The electric vehicle 10 can utilize at least one electric motor and a battery coupled to the vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 can be electrically driven in embodiments in which the input member 42 is rotatably coupled to the first set of wheels 30 and in embodiments in which the input member 42 rotates independently of the first set of wheels 30. The electric motor can be connected to directly drive the input member 42 of the collector assembly 40, or it can be connected to drive the rotation of the first set of wheels 30, thereby generating rotation of the input member 42.

[0055] In some embodiments, at least one of the motors is a non-electric motor, while in some other embodiments, the motor element is an electric motor.

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle 10 includes at least one motor, and the at least one motor is operatively connected to the input member 42 for driving the shaft 42a to rotate in at least a first rotational direction.

[0057] In yet another embodiment, even though the first set of wheels 30 are non-rotatably coupled to the input member 42, an electric motor is connected to drive the first set of wheels 30 to rotate. In these embodiments, the drive element is not connected to the electric motor. Instead, rotation of the input member 42 is driven by another electric motor or a mechanical device such as a crank handle.

[0058] In further embodiments, the vehicle 10 includes at least one controller operatively connected to the electric motor element to control operation thereof.

[0059] In other embodiments, vehicle 10 is configured as a remotely controlled (RC) vehicle that includes a power source, or any other propulsion method, for driving one or more wheels of vehicle 10. In such examples, at least one controller includes RC transmitter and receiver circuits and is operated by a user to control the direction of travel, travel speed, and / or other aspects of vehicle 10, or a combination thereof.

[0060] Introduction

[0061] In the embodiment of the vehicle 10 disclosed herein, the collector assembly 40 of the vehicle 10 is configured as a friction-based collection assembly that does not include any type of paddle arrangement (such as paddle arrangements conventionally used in the toy art to collect other toys). These paddle arrangements are typically used to "lift" or "scoop" the toys they collect backwards and are not configured to deform laterally in any meaningful manner.

[0062] In e.g. Figure 3In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one object 80 comprises at least one toy vehicle 82. The at least one toy vehicle 82 is configured to be smaller than the vehicle 10 such that the at least one toy vehicle 82 can be received through the at least one opening 20 in the vehicle body 12.

[0063] exist Figure 3 In the particular embodiment provided, at least one toy vehicle 82 is shaped as a pickup truck and includes a pair of front wheels 84 (e.g., Figure 3 The truck includes a truck body 86 to which front and rear wheels 84 are rotatably mounted. The at least one toy vehicle 82 is configured such that the front and rear wheels 84 and the opposing lateral sides 86 a of the truck body 86 collectively define opposing lateral sides of the toy vehicle 82.

[0064] In e.g. Figure 3 In the additional embodiment shown, the at least one toy vehicle 82 is sized such that a minimum width ( D2 ) of the at least one toy vehicle 82 is greater than a distance ( D1 ) between the mutually facing lateral surfaces 43 of the pair of object directing members 44 .

[0065] By sizing the at least one toy vehicle 82 and arranging the plurality of object guide members 44 such that the spacing between adjacent object guide members 44 is less than the minimum width of the at least one toy vehicle 82, the at least one toy vehicle 82 will always cause some of the plurality of object guide members 44 to be laterally deformed when the at least one toy vehicle 82 is received through the at least one opening 20 in the vehicle body 12.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of object guide members 44 are evenly spaced and arranged such that the distance from one lateral side 43 of one object guide member 44 to the mutually facing lateral side 43 of an adjacent object guide member 44 is at most approximately 30 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the distance from one lateral side 43 of an object guide member 44 to the mutually facing lateral side 43 of an adjacent object guide member 44 is at most approximately 24 mm. In this same embodiment, the minimum width of the truck is at least 30.5 mm, and preferably at least 33 mm.

[0067] Although the at least one object 80 is specifically described above as being at least one toy vehicle 82, the vehicle 10 of the present disclosure may also be applied to at least one object 80 of other sizes and shapes. For example, a block-shaped play object may be provided that is sized and shaped to pass under the front of the simulated passenger portion and through the at least one opening 20 to be collected by the collector assembly 40.

[0068] As described above, the plurality of object guide members 44 are configured to be resilient and laterally flexible, such that at least some of the plurality of object guide members 44 can laterally deform around and capture the at least one object 80 to guide the at least one object 80 toward the storage area 18 (when the plurality of object guide members 44 are driven to rotate in the first rotational direction). When guiding the at least one object 80, the at least one object 80 is captured between the mutually facing lateral sides of the plurality of object guide members 44.

[0069] Reference Figure 3 , provides a schematic diagram illustrating a pair of object guide members 44 among a plurality of object guide members 44 being laterally deformed from an original, undeformed position (indicated by dashed lines) to a more laterally deformed position. By moving from the original, undeformed position to the more laterally deformed position, the pair of object guide members 44 have captured at least one object 80 between their mutually facing lateral sides 43. The "capturing" of the at least one object 80 is achieved by two aspects of the object guide members 44.

[0070] First, because each object guide member 44 is resilient and laterally flexible, each object guide member in a pair of object guide members 44 will be oriented toward a laterally undeformed position (e.g., Figure 3 When the pair of object guide members 44 are laterally deformed about at least one object 80, an inherent biasing force generated in each object guide member 44 is exerted inwardly on the at least one object 80 located between the pair of object guide members 44. This biasing force serves to at least partially retain the at least one object 80 between the mutually facing lateral sides 43 of the pair of object guide members 44.

[0071] Secondly, when the pair of object guiding members 44 are laterally deformed around the at least one object 80, friction is generated between the mutually facing lateral sides 43 of the pair of object guiding members 44 and the side surfaces of the at least one object 80. This friction also serves to "grab" the at least one object 80, thereby at least partially holding the at least one object 80 between the mutually facing lateral sides 43 of the pair of object guiding members 44.

[0072] The pair of object guide members 44 will "catch" the at least one object 80 due to the inherent biasing force of the pair of object guide members 44 and the frictional force exerted by the object guide members 44 on the at least one object 80. Then, due to the rotation of the plurality of object guide members 44 in the first rotational direction, the at least one object 80 captured between the pair of object guide members 44 will be directed to the storage area 18 of the carrier 10.

[0073] In one embodiment, the plurality of object guide members 44 are arranged such that at least one pair of the plurality of object guide members 44 is laterally deformed around opposite sides of the at least one object 80. Figure 3 As shown, the mutually facing sides 43 of a pair of object guide members 44 contact opposite sides of at least one object 80 (configured as a toy vehicle 82 ).

[0074] In another embodiment, the plurality of object guide members 44 are configured such that when at least one object 80 is received through at least one opening 20, the mutually facing lateral sides 43 of the plurality of object guide members 44 engage with the opposite lateral sides of the at least one object 80 (i.e., the opposite lateral sides 86a of the truck body 86) such that the at least one object 80 is guided toward the storage area 18.

[0075] In such Figure 1C 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B and Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, each of the plurality of object guide members 44 includes a centrally located connecting hub 45. In embodiments where the input member 42 includes a shaft 42a, the connecting hub 45 of each object guide member includes a mounting hole 45a sized to receive the shaft 42a therethrough to mount the object guide member 44 on the shaft 42a.

[0076] exist Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the particular embodiment provided, the mounting hole 45 a of the connecting hub 45 on each of the plurality of object guide members 44 has a square cross-section. In this same embodiment, the shaft 42 a has a “+” shaped cross-section such that when the shaft 42 a is received through the mounting hole 45 a of each of the plurality of object guide members 44 , the shaft 42 a does not rotate relative to the plurality of object guide members 44 .

[0077] exist Figures 1A to 5 In the example provided, the plurality of object guides 44 are configured as a plurality of guide plates 44 a.

[0078] exist Figures 2A to 5 In the particular example provided, a plurality of guide discs 44a are mounted on the shaft 42a such that each guide disc 44a extends radially outward from the shaft 42a.

[0079] In such Figures 2A to 5In the illustrated embodiment, at least one lateral side 43 of each of the plurality of object guide members 44 includes a first lateral side 43 a and a second lateral side 43 b opposite the first lateral side 43 a. In this embodiment, the thickness of the object guide members 44 can vary, and in one example, can be varied to change the elasticity and lateral flexibility of the object guide members 44, thereby adjusting the performance of the object guide members 44.

[0080] In such Figure 1C 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B and Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the plurality of object guide members 44 includes a plurality of teeth 46. The plurality of teeth 46 are positioned circumferentially around the periphery of the at least one object guide member 44. In this embodiment, the plurality of teeth 46 are shaped so that when the plurality of object guide members 44 are driven to rotate in a first rotational direction, the plurality of teeth 46 at least partially engage the at least one object 80 to further guide the at least one object 80 toward the storage area 18.

[0081] A plurality of teeth 46 may be provided in various configurations on at least one of the plurality of object guide members 44 .

[0082] In such Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the illustrated embodiment, each of the plurality of teeth 46 includes a leading edge 46 a extending toward the first rotational direction.

[0083] In further embodiments, the leading edge 46 a of each of the plurality of teeth 46 has an arcuate shape.

[0084] In e.g. Figure 4B In another additional embodiment shown, a leading edge 46a of at least one tooth 46 of the plurality of teeth 46 has a positive rake angle (G1) relative to a radial line (R1) extending from a center of the at least one object guiding member 44 to a root 46c of the at least one tooth 46.

[0085] In e.g. Figure 1C 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A 、 Figure 4B and Figure 5In another additional embodiment shown, the plurality of teeth 46 are evenly distributed around the periphery of the at least one object guide member 44. By evenly spacing the plurality of teeth 46 around the periphery of the guide member 44, the plurality of teeth 86 will more consistently "capture" and guide the at least one object 80 when the guide member 44 rotates about the first axis (A1) in the first rotational direction.

[0086] In e.g. Figure 2A and 2B In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of teeth 46 of each object guiding member 44 is angularly offset relative to the plurality of teeth 46 of at least one other object guiding member 44 in the plurality of object guiding members 44 .

[0087] exist Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the particular example provided, the plurality of teeth 46 of each other object guiding member 44 in the plurality of object guiding members 44 are advanced approximately half a tooth pitch relative to the plurality of teeth 46 on the adjacent object guiding member 44 .

[0088] In e.g. Figure 1C 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the illustrated embodiment, at least one of the plurality of object guide members 44 is configured to provide an improved flexure structure compared to embodiments of the object guide member 44 in which the object guide member 44 is a circular or cylindrical disk.

[0089] exist Figures 2A to 2B 、 Figure 4A and Figure 4B In one such embodiment shown, the at least one object guiding member 44 includes a plurality of gullets 48 formed around a periphery of the at least one object guiding member 44. Each gullet 48 of the plurality of gullets 48 is disposed between two adjacent teeth 46 of the plurality of teeth 46.

[0090] In another embodiment, each of the plurality of gullets 48 has a circular cross-section and is located at the root 46 c of one of the two adjacent teeth 46. By providing relatively large gullets 48 on the periphery of the object guiding member 44, the object guiding member 44 can more easily flex and wrap around the at least one object 80 when the at least one object 80 is captured between the plurality of object guiding members 44. Forming the gullets 48 with a circular cross-section also helps reduce the likelihood of the object guiding member 44 tearing during this flexing and wrapping process.

[0091] exist Figure 2A 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 4A and Figure 4BIn the particular example provided, each tooth groove 48 of the plurality of tooth grooves 48 is located at the trailing edge 46 b of one of two adjacent teeth 46 .

[0092] In one embodiment, the connecting hub 45 of each object guide member 44 in the plurality of object guide members 44 is configured to releasably connect the object guide member 44 to at least one adjacent object guide member in the plurality of object guide members 44 such that the plurality of object guide members 44 rotate together about the first axis (A1).

[0093] In another embodiment, the connecting hub 45 is configured such that a first side of the connecting hub 45 includes a key, and a second side of the connecting hub 45 (opposite the first side) includes a keyway for receiving a key of an adjacent object guide member 44 of the plurality of object guide members 44. In this manner, the plurality of object guide members 44 can be coupled together on the input member 42 such that the plurality of object guide members 44 rotate together about the first axis (A1).

[0094] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a toy vehicle 82 kit is provided. The toy vehicle 82 kit includes at least one object 80 and a vehicle 10 for collecting the at least one object 80 on a surface 11. The vehicle 10 includes a body 12 having at least one opening 20 formed therein, wherein the at least one opening 20 is sized to receive the at least one object 80 therethrough. The body 12 also includes a storage area 18 for receiving the at least one object 80 and a collector assembly 40 configured to direct the at least one object 80 into the storage area 18 of the body 12.

[0095] The above specific embodiments are shown as examples only, and it should be understood that these embodiments may have various modifications and alternative forms. It should also be understood that the above embodiments are intended to be examples of the present disclosure, and those skilled in the art may make changes and modifications thereto without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, which is limited only by the appended claims.

[0096] Reference numerals

[0097] 10 transport vehicles

[0098] 11 Surface

[0099] 12 car bodies

[0100] 12a Simulated passenger section

[0101] 16 decorative accessories

[0102] 16a tusk element

[0103] 18 storage areas

[0104] 18a open storage container

[0105] 18b sidewall

[0106] 18c bottom wall

[0107] 18d posterior wall

[0108] 20 openings

[0109] 20A single opening

[0110] 22 internal cavity

[0111] 22a opening part

[0112] 22b channel section

[0113] 24 guide ramps

[0114] 30First set of wheels

[0115] 30a front wheel

[0116] 31 front axle

[0117] 32 Second set of wheels

[0118] 32a rear wheel

[0119] 33 Gear train

[0120] 40 collector components

[0121] 41 bearings

[0122] 42 Input components

[0123] 42a shaft

[0124] 43 lateral side

[0125] 43a first lateral side

[0126] 43b second lateral side

[0127] 44 Object guiding component

[0128] 44a guide plate

[0129] 45 connecting hub

[0130] 45a mounting hole

[0131] 46 teeth

[0132] 46a leading edge

[0133] 46b trailing edge

[0134] 46c root

[0135] 48 teeth

[0136] 80 objects

[0137] 82 toy car

[0138] 84 wheels

[0139] 86 truck body

[0140] 86a Lateral side of truck body.

Claims

1. A vehicle for collecting at least one object on a surface, characterized in that The carrier vehicle comprises: A vehicle body having: at least one opening formed therein, the at least one opening being sized to receive at least one object therethrough; and a storage area for accommodating at least one object; and A collector assembly configured to direct at least one object into a storage area of ​​a vehicle body, the collector assembly comprising: an input member rotatably connected to the vehicle body for rotation about a first axis in at least a first rotational direction; and a plurality of object guide members connected to the input member for rotation therewith, each of the plurality of object guide members including at least one lateral side, the plurality of object guide members being resilient and laterally flexible such that when the plurality of object guide members are driven to rotate in a first rotational direction and at least one object is received through the at least one opening, at least some of the plurality of object guide members deform laterally around the at least one object and capture the at least one object to guide the at least one object toward a storage area.

2. The carrier vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that: Also includes: A drive element is operatively connected to the input member for driving the input member to rotate in at least a first rotational direction.

3. The carrier vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that: The plurality of object guiding members are configured such that when at least one object is received through the at least one opening, mutually facing lateral sides of the plurality of object guiding members engage opposing lateral sides of the at least one object such that the at least one object is guided toward the storage area.

4. The carrier vehicle according to claim 3, characterized in that: The plurality of object guiding members are arranged such that at least two adjacent object guiding members of the plurality of object guiding members frictionally engage opposing lateral sides of at least one object.

5. The carrier vehicle according to claim 4, characterized in that: The at least one lateral side of each of the plurality of object guide members includes a first lateral side and a second lateral side opposite the first lateral side.

6. The carrier vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that: at least one object guiding member of the plurality of object guiding members comprises a plurality of teeth positioned circumferentially around a periphery of the at least one object guiding member; and The plurality of teeth are shaped and adapted to engage the at least one object when the plurality of object guiding members are driven to rotate in the first rotational direction to further guide the at least one object to the storage area.

7. The carrier vehicle according to claim 6, characterized in that: Each tooth of the plurality of teeth includes a leading edge extending toward the first rotational direction.

8. The carrier vehicle according to claim 7, characterized in that: A leading edge of each of the plurality of teeth has an arc shape.

9. The carrier vehicle according to claim 7, characterized in that: A leading edge of at least one tooth of the plurality of teeth has a positive rake angle relative to a radial line extending from a center of the at least one object guiding member to a root of the at least one tooth.

10. The carrier vehicle according to claim 6, characterized in that: The plurality of teeth are evenly distributed around a circumference of the at least one object guiding member.

11. The carrier vehicle according to claim 6, characterized in that: The at least one object guiding member includes a plurality of tooth grooves formed on an outer circumference of the at least one object guiding member; and wherein each tooth groove of the plurality of tooth grooves is located between two adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth.

12. The carrier vehicle according to claim 11, characterized in that: Each tooth groove of the plurality of tooth grooves has a circular cross-section and is located at a root of one of two adjacent teeth.

13. The carrier vehicle according to claim 6, characterized in that: The plurality of teeth of each object guide member are angularly offset relative to the plurality of teeth of at least one other object guide member of the plurality of object guide members.

14. The carrier vehicle according to claim 2, characterized in that: Also included is a first set of wheels; and A first set of wheels is rotatably connected to the vehicle body for supporting the vehicle on a surface.

15. The carrier vehicle according to claim 14, characterized in that: The drive element is operatively connected to the input member such that the input member is driven to rotate in a first rotational direction independent of rotation of the first set of wheels of the first wheel assembly.

16. The carrier vehicle according to claim 14, characterized in that: The drive element and the first set of wheels are both contained within a first wheel assembly; wherein the first set of wheels are rotationally coupled to an input member of the collector assembly via a drive element; and Therein, the drive element is configured such that when the first set of wheels rotates relative to the vehicle body, the input member is driven to rotate in at least a first rotational direction.

17. The carrier vehicle according to claim 16, characterized in that: The vehicle is configured as a push cart such that the first set of wheels of the first wheel assembly can be driven to rotate relative to the vehicle body by a user pushing the vehicle along a surface.

18. A toy car kit comprising: at least one toy object; and A vehicle for collecting at least one toy object on a surface, the toy vehicle kit comprising: A vehicle body having: at least one opening formed in the vehicle body, the at least one opening being sized to receive at least one object therethrough; and a storage area for accommodating at least one object; and A collector assembly configured to direct at least one object into a storage area of ​​a vehicle body, the collector assembly comprising: an input member rotatably connected to the vehicle body for rotation about a first axis in at least a first rotational direction; and a plurality of object guide members connected to the input member for rotation therewith, each of the plurality of object guide members including at least one lateral side, the plurality of object guide members being laterally flexible such that when the plurality of object guide members are driven to rotate in a first rotational direction and at least one object is received through the at least one opening, at least some of the plurality of object guide members deform laterally about the at least one object and capture the at least one object between the mutually facing lateral sides of the plurality of object guide members to guide the at least one object toward a storage area.

19. The toy vehicle kit according to claim 18, wherein: The at least one toy object is at least one toy vehicle.

20. The toy vehicle kit according to claim 18, wherein: The at least one toy vehicle is sized such that a width of the at least one toy vehicle is greater than a distance between mutually facing lateral sides of the plurality of object guide members.

Images