Launch device for toy vehicles, toy track set and toy vehicle kit

Abstract

The present application provides a launching device for toy vehicles, a toy track set and a toy vehicle set. The launching device is configured for sequentially launching a plurality of toy vehicles and comprises a holding section supporting the plurality of toy vehicles in a sequential arrangement, wherein at least a portion of the holding section is formed as an inverted support area configured to hold at least some of the plurality of toy vehicles in an at least partially inverted orientation. The launching device further comprises a launching section connected to the holding section; and a release element movable between a blocking position, in which the release element holds the plurality of toy vehicles on the holding section, and a launching position, in which the release element allows one of the plurality of toy vehicles to be released from the holding section onto the launching section under the influence of gravity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to toy car track sets and accessories used therein. Specifically, this disclosure relates to a launching device for a toy car. Background Technology

[0002] Toy car sets are well-known in the field and have been popular for many years. A toy car track set may include one or more track sections arranged to form a closed loop around which one or more toy cars can travel. Common and popular types of toy car sets include closed-loop track sets and open-loop track sets. Closed-loop track sets define multiple curves and loop sections within which one or more toy car boosters can operate. Open-loop track sets are equipped with toy launchers to launch toy cars onto the open-loop track, thereby propelling the toy cars along the track. The toy cars used in these closed-loop and open-loop sets can be self-powered or receive power from an external power source. The device used to accelerate unpowered toy cars around the track is often referred to as a "launcher" or "booster."

[0003] The simplest way to accelerate a toy car might be found in a toy launcher that includes a launch ramp, where gravity and the steep incline of the ramp propel the vehicle from a higher position to a lower one. Some toy car launchers utilize spring-driven launchers, typically employing a spring-driven moving impact mechanism that launches the toy car from its launch position upon impact. Boosters used to accelerate toy cars usually utilize one or more rotating wheels that engage with the side or top of the toy car as it enters the booster, and their motor-driven rotation accelerates the toy car along the toy set track.

[0004] To enhance the entertainment, excitement, and appeal of toy car sets, toy industry professionals have been striving to incorporate various stunt devices into these sets. Examples of such devices include inverted loops, spiral paths, various jumps, and obstacles or disruptive elements that attach to or impede the toy car's movement. The toy car itself typically rolls freely within these booster-activated sets and comprises a relatively simple toy car body with multiple wheels supporting its free roll.

[0005] Despite the significant efforts and substantial changes made by toy industry practitioners in providing continuously improved and fun toy car sets, the industry still needs more fun, exciting, and innovative toy car sets. Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a novel toy car launching device. Utility Model Content

[0006] According to one aspect, a launching device for sequentially launching a plurality of toy cars is provided, the launching device comprising: a track body including: a holding section configured to support a plurality of toy cars in a sequentially arranged manner, at least a portion of the holding section forming an inverted support region configured to hold at least some of the toy cars in an at least partially inverted orientation; and a launching section connected to the holding section; and a release element movably connected to the track body for moving between a blocking position and a launching position, wherein in the blocking position the release element holds the plurality of toy cars on the holding section, and in the launching position the release element allows at least a first toy car among the plurality of toy cars to be released from the holding section onto the launching section; wherein the launching section is oriented relative to the holding section such that at least a first toy car among the plurality of toy cars is released from the holding section onto the launching section under the action of gravity.

[0007] According to another aspect, a toy track set and toy car kit are provided, comprising: a plurality of toy cars; and a launching device including a track body including an inverted support region configured to support the plurality of toy cars in at least a partially inverted orientation; and a launching section connected to the inverted support region; a release element movable between a blocking position and a launching position, wherein in the blocking position the release element holds the plurality of toy cars on the inverted support region, and in the launching position the release element allows at least a first toy car of the plurality of toy cars to be released from the inverted support region onto the launching section; and wherein the launching section is oriented relative to the inverted support region such that at least a first toy car of the plurality of toy cars released from the inverted support region travels onto the launching section under the influence of gravity.

[0008] According to another aspect, a launching device for sequentially launching a plurality of toy cars is provided, the launching device comprising: a track body including a holding section configured to support a plurality of toy cars in a sequentially arranged manner, at least a portion of the holding section forming an inverted support region configured to hold at least some of the toy cars in an at least partially inverted orientation; and a launching section connected to the holding section; and a release element movably connected to the track body for moving between a blocking position and a launching position, wherein in the blocking position the release element holds the plurality of toy cars on the holding section, and in the launching position the release element allows at least a first toy car among the plurality of toy cars to be released from the holding section onto the launching section under the action of gravity.

[0009] According to another aspect, a launching device for sequentially launching a plurality of toy cars is provided, the launching device comprising: a track body including a holding section configured to support a plurality of toy cars in a sequentially arranged manner, at least a portion of the holding section forming an inverted support region configured to hold at least some of the toy cars in a at least partially inverted first orientation; and a launching section connected to the holding section; and a release element movably connected to the track body for moving between a blocking position and a launching position, wherein in the blocking position the release element holds the plurality of toy cars on the holding section, and in the launching position the release element allows at least one of the toy cars to be released from the holding section onto the launching section under the influence of gravity; wherein the launching section is configured such that when at least one toy car is released onto the launching section, at least one toy car is held in a second orientation; and wherein the second orientation is less inverted than the at least partially inverted first orientation. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 An isometric view of an embodiment of the transmitting apparatus of this disclosure is shown;

[0012] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 Rear perspective view of an embodiment of the launching device;

[0013] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1 A close-up perspective view of the holding section of an embodiment of the launching device;

[0014] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 Right side view of an embodiment of the transmitting device;

[0015] Figure 5A It shows Figure 1 A perspective sectional view of a portion of the holding section of an embodiment of the launching device;

[0016] Figure 5B It shows Figure 5A A direct sectional view of a portion of the retaining section shown;

[0017] Figure 5C It shows Figure 5A A cross-sectional view of a portion of the retaining section shown, wherein one of a plurality of toy cars is supported on the retaining section in at least a partially inverted orientation;

[0018] Figure 6A It shows Figure 1A side sectional view of an embodiment of the launching device, wherein the release element is in the blocking position;

[0019] Figure 6B It shows Figure 1 A side sectional view of an embodiment of the launching device, wherein the release element is in the released position;

[0020] Figure 7A It shows Figure 1 A side sectional view of an embodiment of the launching device, wherein multiple toy cars are held in a sequential manner along a holding section of the track body, and lever elements are in an engaged position;

[0021] Figure 7B It shows Figure 1 A side sectional view of an embodiment of the launching device, wherein a plurality of toy cars are held in a sequentially arranged manner along a holding section of the track body, and a lever element is in a disengaged position to release one of the plurality of toy cars onto the launching section; and

[0022] Figure 7C It shows Figure 1 A side sectional view of an embodiment of the launching device, wherein multiple toy cars are held in a sequential manner along a holding section of the track body, and the lever element is again in the engaged position. Detailed Implementation

[0023] For the sake of simplicity and clarity, reference numerals may be repeated in the figures where appropriate to indicate corresponding or similar elements. Furthermore, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of one or more embodiments described herein. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described herein can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. It should first be understood that although exemplary embodiments are shown in the figures and described below, the principles of this disclosure can be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not. This disclosure should in no way be limited to the exemplary embodiments and techniques shown in the figures and described below.

[0024] Unless the context otherwise requires, the various terms used in this specification may be read and understood as follows: “or” as used throughout is inclusive, as is written as “and / or”; singular articles and pronouns as used throughout include their plural forms and vice versa; similarly, gender pronouns include their corresponding pronouns, and therefore the pronouns should not be construed as limiting anything described herein to use, implementation, execution, etc., by a single gender; “exemplary” should be understood as “illustrative” or “illustrative”, and not necessarily “preferred” over other embodiments. Further definitions of terms may be listed herein; these definitions may apply to previous and subsequent instances of these terms, as may be understood from reading this specification. It should also be noted that the terms “a” or “an” should in all cases be understood to mean “at least one” unless expressly stated otherwise, or unless it is clearly understood that they must mean “one”.

[0025] As used herein, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as inclusive and open-ended, not exclusive. Specifically, when used in the specification and claims, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” and their variations indicate that the specified features, steps, or components are included. These terms should not be construed as excluding the presence of other features, steps, or components.

[0026] As used in this article, the terms “approximately” and “approximately” are intended to cover possible variations in the upper and lower limits of the numerical range, such as variations in properties, parameters, and dimensions.

[0027] Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, components of the systems and apparatuses may be integrated or separated. Furthermore, the operation of the systems and apparatuses disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components, and the described methods may include more, fewer, or other steps. Moreover, the steps may be performed in any suitable order. In this document, "each" means each component in the set or each component in a subset of the set.

[0028] The embodiments described herein are exemplary (e.g., in terms of materials, shape, size, and structural details) and are not limited to the appended claims and any modifications thereof. Those skilled in the art will understand that many more possible alternative implementations and modifications exist, and the examples below are merely illustrative of one or more implementations. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is limited only by the appended claims and any modifications thereof.

[0029] Refer to this disclosure Figures 1 to 7CAn embodiment of a launching device 10 for sequentially launching a plurality of toy cars 12 is provided. In this embodiment, the launching device 10 includes a track body 20. The track body 20 includes: a holding section 22 configured to support a plurality of toy cars 12 in a sequential manner; and a launching section 30 connected to the holding section 22. At least a portion of the holding section 22 is formed as an inverted support region 22a configured to hold at least some of the plurality of toy cars 12 in an at least partially inverted orientation. The launching device 10 also includes a release element 40 movably connected to the track body 20 for use in a blocking position (e.g., Figure 6A (as shown in Figure 7) and launch location (as shown in Figure 7) Figure 6B The track body 20 moves between the holding section 22 and the launching section 30. At the blocking position, the release element 40 holds the multiple toy cars 12 on the holding section 22. At the launching position, the release element 40 allows at least one of the multiple toy cars 12 to be released from the holding section 22 onto the launching section 30. The launching section 30 of the track body 20 is oriented relative to the holding section 22 such that at least one of the multiple toy cars 12 is released from the holding section 22 onto the launching section 30 under the influence of gravity.

[0030] In other words, the release element 40 of the launching device 10 is movably connected to the track body 20 to move between a blocking position and a launching position. In the blocking position, the release element 40 holds the plurality of toy cars 12 on the holding section 22. In the launching position, the release element 40 allows one of the plurality of toy cars 12 to be released from the holding section 22 onto the launching section 30 under the action of gravity.

[0031] In one embodiment, the track body 20 of the launching device 10 defines a track segment 20a along which a plurality of toy cars 12 are supported and travel. The track segment 20a may include a retaining segment 22 and a launching segment 30 of the track body 20. The track body 20 also includes a support base 20b to which the track segment 20a is attached. The support base 20b rests on a supporting surface (e.g., a table or the ground) during use of the launching device 10 and serves to support the track segment 20a and other components of the launching device 10.

[0032] In such Figure 1In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the launching device 10 is configured to launch multiple toy cars 12 by accelerating them as they travel along the launching section 30 of the track body 20. In this way, the multiple toy cars 12 are not only accelerated by gravity, but also achieve higher speeds upon launch from the launching device 10. In this embodiment, the launching device 10 includes a booster element 60 configured to accelerate at least one toy car 12 released by the release element 40 as at least one toy car 12 travels along the launching section 30.

[0033] In another embodiment, a booster element 60 is disposed along a portion of the launch section 30 for accelerating at least one toy car 12. The booster element 60 is configured to engage with one of a plurality of toy cars 12 released from the holding section 22 (by the release element 40) to accelerate the toy car 12 along the launch section 30.

[0034] exist Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figure 6A In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 7, booster elements 60 are disposed on both sides and top of track segment 20a of track body 20. Booster element 60 includes booster housing 62 and booster mechanism 64 contained within the housing. Booster element 60 is disposed along the length of launch segment 30 of track segment 20a. Because booster element 60 is positioned along launch segment 30, launch segment 30 of track segment 20a is effectively divided into three parts: a first proximal portion 30a, a second intermediate portion 30b, and a third distal portion 30c. Booster housing 62 includes a through-hole extending along its length. The length of launch segment 30 of track segment 20a of track body 20 extends through the through-hole of booster housing 62, thereby defining the second intermediate portion 30b of launch segment 30 on track segment 20a. The booster mechanism 64 is located within the booster housing 62 to engage with at least one of the plurality of toy cars 12 as at least one toy car 12 travels along the middle portion 30b of the launch section 30 of the track section 20a, so as to accelerate at least one toy car 12.

[0035] In another embodiment, the booster element 60 of the launching device 10 is configured such that the booster mechanism 64 is a wheeled booster, wherein the booster mechanism 64 of the booster element 60 includes at least one drive wheel and a corresponding drive mechanism operatively connected to the drive wheel to drive the rotational movement of the drive wheel. At least one drive wheel is located within the booster housing 62 and is disposed relative to the intermediate portion 30b of the launching section 30 so as to engage at least one toy car 12 as the toy car 12 travels along the launching section 30.

[0036] In another additional embodiment, the booster element 60 is configured such that at least one drive wheel includes a first drive wheel formed of an elastic material and including a first outer wall configured to engage with a first side of at least one of the plurality of toy cars 12 to accelerate the toy car. The at least one drive wheel also includes a second drive wheel formed of an elastic material and including a second outer wall configured to engage with a second side of the plurality of toy cars 12 opposite to the first side to accelerate the toy car 12. The booster element 60 also includes a first drive element operably connected to the first drive wheel, a second drive element operably connected to the second drive wheel, and a drive mechanism operably connected to the first and second drive elements, the drive mechanism operably driving the first and second drive elements to rotate the first and second drive wheels in opposite directions.

[0037] In one embodiment, the booster mechanism 64 further includes at least one battery connected to the drive mechanism to provide power to the drive mechanism, and a control mechanism connected to the drive mechanism and / or the at least one battery to control the operation of the drive mechanism. Figures 1 to 4 In a specific embodiment provided, the control mechanism includes an on / off button mounted through the booster housing 63 so that the user of the launch device 10 can reach it.

[0038] exist Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figure 6A In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 7, the booster element 60 is a wheel booster, and at least one drive wheel includes a first drive wheel and a second drive wheel (not shown). The first and second drive wheels are disposed on opposite sides of the middle portion 30b of the launch section 30 of the track segment 20a, such that each of the first and second drive wheels extends at least partially above the middle portion 30b of the launch section 30. In this way, the first and second drive wheels can engage opposite sides of at least one toy car 12 to accelerate at least one toy car 12 along the launch section 30.

[0039] In such Figure 1 In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the launching device 10 is configured to have an animal-like resemblance. To achieve this animal-like resemblance, the launching device 10 includes at least one decorative element 70 attached to a portion of the track body 20, and is configured to resemble identifiable aspects of an animal that the launching device 10 should have. The at least one decorative element 70 is attached to at least one of the track segment 20a, the support base 20b, and the booster element 60 of the launching device 10.

[0040] exist Figure 1In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 7, the launching device 10 is configured to resemble a scorpion. At least one decorative element 70 includes a pair of claw-shaped elements 70a connected to opposite sides of the track body 20, facing a first free end of the track body 20. The at least one decorative element 70 also includes a plurality of leg elements 70b connected along opposite sides of the track body 20 and the rear end of the support base 20b, resembling scorpion legs. Finally, the launching device 10 includes a stinger element 70c connected to a second free end of the track body 20, near the inverted support region 22a of the retaining section 22, and configured to resemble a scorpion's stinger. In this way, the booster element 60 and a portion of the track body 20 of the launching device 10 resemble a scorpion's body, while the remainder of the track body 20 resembles a scorpion's tail.

[0041] In one embodiment, the track segment 20a of the track body 20 is formed as a partially looped track segment.

[0042] In such Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 6A In another embodiment shown in Figure 7, the partial annular track segment is formed such that track segment 20a of track body 20 includes an upper generally straight ramp portion 24, a curved ramp portion 26 extending downward from the upper generally straight ramp portion 24, and a launch ramp portion 28 extending from the bottom end of the curved ramp portion 26. The launch ramp portion 28 defines the launch section 30 of track segment 20a, and in some embodiments, also defines a portion of the holding section 22. In other words, the holding section 22 of track segment 20a does not necessarily terminate at the end of the curved ramp portion 26 (but rather terminates beyond the release element 40).

[0043] In another embodiment, the release element 40 is located on the track body 20 such that the holding section 22 is defined along the upper generally straight ramp section 24 and the curved ramp section 26, and the launching section 30 is defined along the launching ramp section 28.

[0044] exist Figure 4In the provided specific embodiment, a portion of the circular track segment is configured such that the upper, substantially straight ramp portion 24 includes a first end and a second end, and extends at an angle relative to the horizontal direction, such that when at least one of the plurality of toy cars 12 is released onto the launching section 30 via the release element 40, the plurality of toy cars 12 will advance along the upper, substantially straight ramp portion 24 under the influence of gravity. The curved ramp portion 26 includes a first end connected to the second end of the upper, substantially straight ramp portion 24, and has a substantially U-shaped curve such that the second end of the curved ramp portion 26 extends in the opposite direction to its first end. The second end of the curved ramp portion connects to the launching ramp portion 28. As described above, the launching ramp portion 28 includes at least the launching section 30 of the track segment 20a.

[0045] In another embodiment, the launch ramp portion 28 of a partial circular track segment defines an end 29 of the track body 20 from which a plurality of toy cars 12 are launched.

[0046] exist Figures 1 to 2 and Figure 4 In the provided specific embodiment, the end 29 of the track body 20 is defined on the third distal portion 30c of the launch section 30. The support base 20b of the track body 20 includes a pair of guide walls 21 located on both sides of the third distal portion 30c of the launch section 30.

[0047] As disclosed herein, the holding section 22 and the launching section 30 of the orbital body 20 can be defined by various combinations of the aforementioned portions of the partial annular orbital section.

[0048] In such Figures 1 to 4 and Figure 6A In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG7, the holding section 22 of the track body 20 is defined by a partially annular track section and a curved ramp section 26, while the launching section 30 is defined by a launching ramp section 28. The curved ramp section 26 terminates at the first side of the release element 40, and the launching ramp section 28 begins at the end of the curved ramp section 26. As described above, the holding section 22 of the track section 20a need not terminate at the end of the curved ramp section 26.

[0049] In such Figure 6A In another embodiment shown in Figure 7, a portion of the annular track segment of the track body 20 is configured such that the inverted support region 22a is defined along a first portion 26a of the upper substantially straight ramp portion 24 and the curved ramp portion 26. Figures 7A to 7C As shown, the partial circular track section is partially formed such that in the first part 26a of the upper substantially straight ramp section 24 and the curved ramp section 26, any one of the multiple toy cars 12 held in these areas will remain in at least a partially inverted orientation.

[0050] Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C A sectional view of a portion of the generally straight upper slope section 24 is shown, with all sectional views taken along the same line of sight. Figure 5C In the image, one of the multiple toy cars 12 is shown in at least a partially upside-down orientation, passing through the same section of a substantially straight ramp 24.

[0051] In such Figures 1 to 7C In the illustrated embodiment, the track body 20 is configured such that at least an inverted support region 22a of the track body 20 includes a pair of parallel support track rails 50. The pair of parallel support track rails 50 collectively define at least an inverted support region 22a of the track segment 20a, along which a plurality of toy cars 12 will travel. Each of the pair of parallel support track rails 50 is laterally spaced from each other to define a gap (G) therebetween. Figure 5B , Figure 5C As shown in Figure 7, each of the pair of support track rails 50 defines a support space (S) within its interior. When multiple toy cars 12 are supported on at least the inverted support area 22a of the track body 20, the size of the support space (S) of each support track rail 50 is designed to support at least one wheel of each of the multiple toy cars 12. In this way, each of the multiple toy cars 12 can be supported across both support track rails 50.

[0052] exist Figure 5C In the provided specific embodiment, one of the multiple toy cars 12 is shown supported across two support rails 50, and the toy car includes a body 12a defining a top surface and a bottom surface. The car also includes a pair of front wheels 12b. Figure 5C (Not shown) and a pair of rear wheels 12c, located on either side of the main body 12a, to support the toy car 12 on a surface. The front wheels 12b and rear wheels 12c are positioned on the main body 12a such that the wheels 12b and 12c extend downwards below the bottom surface of the main body 12a. When the toy car 12 is in at least a partially inverted orientation, the main body 12a of the toy car, extending downwards relative to the pair of support track rails 50, is easily accommodated by a gap (G) provided between the pair of support track rails 50 of the track body 20.

[0053] In another embodiment, each of the pair of support track rails 50 includes a lower track surface 54, an upper track surface 52, and a side guide surface 53 extending therebetween. The support space (S) of each of the pair of support track rails 50 is defined between the side guide surface 53, the lower track surface 54, and the upper track surface 52. The support track rails 50 are configured such that, along the inverted support region 22a of the track body 20, the wheels of a plurality of toy car 12 are supported on and roll along the lower track surface 54 of each of the pair of support track rails 50.

[0054] exist Figures 5A to 5C In the specific embodiment provided, each of the pair of support track rails 50 is configured to include a lower track surface 54, an upper track surface 52, and a side guide surface 53 extending between the lower track surface 54 and the upper track surface 52. Figure 5B and Figure 5C A cross-section of the pair of support track rails 50 is shown. The upper track surface 52 is a straight flange that connects to the top of the side guide surface 53 and extends to both sides of the side guide surface 53. Similarly, the bottom flange is a straight flange that connects to the bottom of the side guide surface 53 and extends to both sides of the side guide surface 53. Each support track rail 50 also includes an outer support rib 55 and an inner support rib 56 disposed on the side guide surface 53 between the upper flange 52 and the lower flange 54 to ensure that the wheels of each of the plurality of toy cars 12 remain properly centered across the pair of support track rails 50.

[0055] exist Figures 1 to 5A and Figure 6A In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 7, the upper, substantially straight ramp portion 24 and the first part of the curved ramp portion 26 of the partially circular track segment are formed by the pair of parallel support track rails 50. During the formation of the curved ramp portion 26 in the curve of the track body 20, the upper flange 52 and lower flange 54 of each parallel support track rail 50 separate, and the height of the side guide surface 53 of each parallel support track rail 50 increases. In the first part of the curved ramp portion 26, the side guide surfaces 53 of the pair of parallel support track rails 50 are all formed as truss structures to reduce the weight of the side guide surfaces 53 while maintaining the structural stability of the track body 20.

[0056] In another embodiment, the track body 20 of the launching device 10 further includes at least one blocking element 80. The at least one blocking element 80 is positioned at least along the inverted support region 22a of the track body 20 and is configured to prevent a plurality of toy cars 12 from traveling along the inverted support region 22a with at least partially face-up orientation.

[0057] exist Figure 1 In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 7, at least one blocking element 80 is a plurality of arched blocking elements 80a positioned along the first portion 26a of the curved ramp portion 26 of the inverted support region 22a and the track segment 20a. Each of the plurality of arched blocking elements 80a is mounted on top of the pair of support track rails 50 and extends between the pair of support track rails 50 such that the blocking element spans the gap (G) between the track rails 50. In this embodiment, each of the plurality of toy cars 12 is sized such that if the toy car 12 travels along the inverted support region 22a with its face up orientation, at least the upper surface of the body 12a of the toy car 12 will extend above the upper track surface 52 of each of the pair of support track rails 50. Since each of the arched blocking elements 80a spans the gap between the pair of support track rails 50 and is located on top of the pair of support track rails 50, when the vehicle 12 travels along the inverted support region in this at least partially face-up orientation, the body 12a of the vehicle 12 will abut against at least one of the arched blocking elements 80a. In this way, the arched blocking elements 80a prevent the multiple toy cars 12 from traveling along the inverted support region 22a in a face-up orientation.

[0058] In such Figure 1 In another embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the track segment 20a of the track body 20 is formed such that the retaining segment 22 of the track body 20 includes a loading portion 90 configured to load at least one of a plurality of toy cars 12 into the retaining segment 22. The loading portion 90 of the retaining segment 22 is configured such that at least one of the plurality of toy cars 12 can be loaded into the retaining segment 22 via the loading portion 90 in at least a partially inverted orientation.

[0059] In another embodiment, the loading portion 90 is defined between the pair of supporting track rails 50 of the track body. In this embodiment, the pair of supporting track rails 50 are configured such that the lower track surface 54 of each supporting track rail 50 extends inward more than the upper track surface 52 of each supporting track rail 50. Since the upper track surface 52 does not extend inward too far, at least one toy car 12 can be loaded into the loading portion 90 by inserting at least one toy car 12 into the gap between the upper flanges 52 of the pair of supporting track rails 50 (while the at least one toy car 12 is in at least a partially inverted orientation) until the wheels 12b, 12c of the vehicle 12 are supported on the lower flanges 54 of the pair of supporting track rails 50.

[0060] exist Figure 1In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 7, the loading portion 90 of the retaining section 22 is defined by the length of an inverted support region 22a extending between the second free end of the track body 20 and the first of a plurality of arched blocking elements 80a. Along the length of the inverted support region 22a, there is no structure that would impede the loading of at least one of the plurality of toy cars 12 into the inverted support region 22a. Figure 5B and Figure 5C As shown, the pair of support rails 50 are configured such that the lower rail surface 54 of each support rail 50 extends inward more than the upper rail surface 52 of each support rail 50. Since the upper rail surface 52 does not extend inward too far, at least one toy car 12 can be loaded into the loading section 90 by inserting at least one toy car 12 into the gap between the upper flanges 52 of the pair of support rails 50 (while the at least one toy car 12 is in at least a partially inverted orientation) until the wheels 12b, 12c of the vehicle 12 are supported on the lower flanges 54 of the pair of support rails 50.

[0061] As described above, the release element 40 of the launching device 10 can be in a blocking position (e.g., Figure 6A (as shown in Figure 7) and release position (as shown in Figure 7) Figure 6B The toy car 12 can be moved between the holding section 22 and the launching section 30 to selectively release at least one of the multiple toy cars 12 from the holding section 22 onto the launching section 30.

[0062] In one embodiment, the positioning of the release element 40 on the track body 20 defines the intersection of the holding section 22 and the launching section 30 of the track body 20. For example, as Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the release element 40 can be positioned on the track body 20 such that the holding section 22 is defined along the upper substantially straight ramp section 24 and the curved ramp section 26, and the launching section 30 is defined along the launching ramp section 28.

[0063] In another embodiment, the release element 40 is biased toward the blocking position.

[0064] In some embodiments of the launching device 10, at least one of the plurality of toy cars 12 is released from the holding section 22 onto the launching section 30 under the influence of gravity. When the releasing element 40 is in the blocking position, it prevents at least one toy car 12 from moving under the influence of gravity.

[0065] In another embodiment, the release element 40 further includes a lever element 42 rotatably mounted to the track body 20 for engagement in an engagement position corresponding to the blocking position of the release element 40 (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 6A , Figure 7A and Figure 7C) and the disengagement position corresponding to the launch position of the release element 40 (see Figure 6B and Figure 7B The release element 40 also includes a first stop element 43 configured to engage with a first toy car 12d (i.e., the bottommost toy car 12 among a plurality of toy cars 12 arranged in sequence) of the plurality of toy cars 12. The first stop element 43 is connected to a lever element 42 of the release element 40 and is configured to engage with the first toy car 12 when the lever element 42 is in the engaged position to substantially hold the first toy car 12 in place along the holding section 22 (i.e., to prevent the first toy car 12d from being released onto the launching section 30).

[0066] In another embodiment, the first stop element 43 is operatively connected to the lever element 42 such that when the lever element 42 is driven between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the first stop element 43 will rotate with the lever element 42.

[0067] In some embodiments, the release element 40 of the launching device 10 is biased toward a blocking position. In embodiments where the release element 40 includes a lever element 42 and a first stop element 43, the release element 40 further includes a biasing element (not shown) connected between the support base 20b and at least one of the lever element 42 and the first stop element 43 for biasing the lever element 42 toward an engagement position.

[0068] like Figure 7A As shown, when the lever element 42 is in the engaged position, the first stop element 43 is positioned along the retaining section 22 to substantially hold the first toy car 12 in place along the retaining section 22. When the lever element 42 is driven toward the disengaged position (e.g., ...), Figure 7B As shown), the first stop element 43 is driven downwards to below the holding section 22 of the track body 20, so that the first stop element 43 is no longer positioned along the track body 20 and no longer obstructs the movement of the first toy car 12d along the track body 20. Therefore, the first toy car 12d moves freely from the holding section 22 to the launching section 30 under the action of gravity. Figure 7C As shown, once the first toy car 12d is released onto the launching section 30 of the track body 20, the lever element 42 (i.e., the release element 40) is driven by the biasing element to return to the engagement position and move back to the engagement position, thereby preventing the second toy car 12e of the plurality of toy cars 12 from moving from the holding section 22 onto the launching section 30.

[0069] In some embodiments, a first stop element 43 is disposed on the front portion of the lever element 42 such that when the lever element 42 is in the engaged position, the first toy car 12d is positioned above the release element 40 and held in place above the release element 40 and on the holding section 22 of the track body 20. It is readily understood that when the lever element 43 is in the engaged position, any of the plurality of toy cars 12 can be held in place by the first stop element 43 located above the release element 40, depending on how many toy cars 12 have been launched from the launching device 10.

[0070] exist Figures 1 to 7C In the specific embodiment provided, the lever element 42 is configured as an elongated lever arm 42a, which is pivotally connected to the support base 20b of the track body 20. The lever arm 42a is pivotally connected to the support base 20b near the midpoint of the elongated lever arm 42a. A first stop element 43 of the release element 40 is integrally formed with the elongated lever arm 42a, located at one end of the lever arm 42a and extending outwardly from the remainder of the elongated lever arm 42a. Figure 7A As shown, when the lever element 42 is in the engaged position, the front end of the first toy car 12d of the plurality of toy cars 12 will abut against the first stop element 43, so that the plurality of toy cars 12 are held in the proper position in a sequential manner.

[0071] In another embodiment, at least a portion of the retaining section 22 of the track segment 20a (i.e., the curved ramp portion 26 of the retaining section 22) includes a through-hole. The through-hole is sized and positioned such that when the lever element 42 pivots between an engaged position and a disengaged position, at least a first stop element 43 on the elongated lever arm 42a will pass through the through-hole. In this way, when the lever element 42 is in the engaged position, the first stop element 43 will at least partially protrude from the upper surface of the retaining section 22 of the track segment 20a, allowing the first stop element 43 to contact the first toy car 12d of the plurality of toy cars 12 held in the retaining section 22.

[0072] In such Figures 6A to 7C In another embodiment shown, the release element 40 includes a second stop element 45. The second stop element 45 is connected to the lever element 42 remote from the first stop element 43, and is configured to engage a second toy car 12e among a plurality of toy cars 12 held behind the first toy car 12d when the lever element 42 is in the disengaged position, for preventing the second toy car 12e from being released from the holding section 22 onto the launching section 30.

[0073] In one embodiment, a second stop element 45 is formed on a portion of the lever element 42 that is further rearward than the portion on which the first stop element 43 is disposed. The second stop element 45 controls the movement of a second toy car 12e among a plurality of toy cars 12 when the first toy car 12d is released onto the launching section 30 due to movement of the lever element 42. In this way, when the first toy car 12d is released from the holding section 22 by movement of the releasing element 40, the second stop element 45 will substantially hold the second toy car 12e in the proper position on the holding section 22 of the track body 20. Figure 7B As shown, when lever element 42 has pivoted to the disengaged position to release the first toy car 12d onto the launching section 30, the first stop element 43 is positioned below the holding section 22 of the track body 20, and the second stop element 45 extends at least partially above the holding section 22 and into position along the track body 20. The second stop element 45 is in a position that can contact the front of the second toy car 12e, thereby substantially holding the second toy car 12e in position along the holding section 22. When lever element 42 pivots back to the engaged position (as shown in the image), Figure 7C As shown, the second stop element 45 is again positioned below the retaining section 22, so that the second stop element 45 no longer obstructs the movement of the second toy car 12e along the retaining section 22. In this way, the second toy car 12e can move along the retaining section 22 until the second toy car 12e contacts the first stop element 43 of the lever element 42. Then, the second toy car 12e can be released onto the launching section 30 of the track body 20 by another movement of the lever element 42 toward the disengaged position.

[0074] exist Figure 1 In the specific embodiment shown in Figure 7, the lever element 42 is configured as an elongated lever arm 42a, which is pivotally connected to the support base 20b of the track body 20. A second stop element 45 on the lever element 42 is integrally formed with the elongated lever arm 42a and is located at the end of the lever arm 42a opposite to the first stop element 43. The second stop element 45 extends outward from the rest of the elongated lever arm 42a.

[0075] In another embodiment, at least a portion of the retaining section 22 of the track segment 20a (i.e., the curved ramp portion 26 of the retaining section 22) includes another through-hole. This other through-hole is sized and positioned such that when the lever element 42 pivots between the engaged and disengaged positions, at least a second stop element 45 on the elongated lever arm 42a will pass through this other through-hole. In this way, when the lever element 42 is in the disengaged position, the second stop element 45 will at least partially protrude from the upper surface of the retaining section 22 of the track body 20, allowing the second stop element 45 to contact a second toy car 12e of the plurality of toy cars 12 held in the retaining section 22.

[0076] In some other embodiments of the launching device 10, at least one of the plurality of toy cars 12 is released from the holding section 22 to the launching section 30 by a portion of the releasing element 40 striking the at least one toy car 12 (when the at least one toy car 12 is on the holding section 22), thereby driving the at least one toy car 12 onto the launching section 30.

[0077] In another embodiment, the release element 40 further includes an impact element, and the release element 40 is configured such that when the release element 40 is driven from the blocking position to the launching position, the impact element of the release element 40 will contact the toy cars among the plurality of toy cars 12 to launch the toy cars from the holding section 22 along the launching section 30 of the track body 20.

[0078] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the launching device 10 is provided as part of a toy track set and toy car kit. The toy track set and toy car kit include a plurality of toy cars 12 disclosed herein and the launching device 10. The launching device 10 includes a track body 20 disclosed herein, wherein the track body 20 includes an inverted support region 22a configured to support a plurality of toy cars 12 in at least a partially inverted orientation, and a launching section 30 connected to the inverted support region 22a. The launching device 10 also includes a release element 40 movable between a blocking position and a launching position, in which the release element 40 holds the plurality of toy cars 12 on the inverted support region 22a, and in the launching position, the release element 40 allows a toy car among the plurality of toy cars 12 to be released from the inverted support region 22a onto the launching section 30. Furthermore, the launching section 30 is oriented relative to the inverted support region 22a, such that the toy cars among the multiple toy cars 12 released from the inverted support region 22a will move onto the launching section 30 under the influence of gravity.

[0079] In such Figure 7AIn the illustrated embodiment, the launching device 10 is configured such that as each toy car 12 travels along the holding section 22 and the launching section 30, the holding section 22 and the launching section 30 of the track body 20 hold each of the plurality of toy cars 12 (relative to the vertical axis of the launching device 10) in a different orientation. In this embodiment, the inverted support region 22a of the holding section 22 is configured to hold at least some of the plurality of toy cars 12 in a first orientation that is at least partially inverted. The launching section 30 is configured such that when at least one toy car 12 is released onto the launching section 30, at least one toy car 12 released onto the launching section 30 by the releasing element 40 is held in a second orientation. The second orientation is defined as an orientation with a lesser degree of inversion than the at least partially inverted first orientation.

[0080] In another embodiment, the second orientation of at least one toy car 12 on the launching section 30 is at least partially facing upwards.

[0081] In one embodiment, the launcher 10 disclosed herein is integrally formed as part of a larger toy track set system. The toy track set system includes at least one track section configured to provide additional play modes for a plurality of toy cars 12. In this embodiment, the launcher 10 is used to power the plurality of toy cars 12 and "launch" them onto the toy track set system. The launcher 10 may remain detached from the toy track set system, or it may be releasably or permanently attached to the toy track set system. The launcher 10 is positioned relative to the toy track set system such that the plurality of toy cars 12 can travel along the launch section 30 of the launcher 10 and onto at least one length of the track of the toy track set system. Launch section 30 may be positioned (and may be connected) to at least one length of track to form an effective continuous length of track, or launch section 30 may be spaced apart from at least one length of track such that when multiple toy cars 12 travel along launch section 30 and leave launch section 30, multiple toy cars 12 effectively “jump” from launch section 30 to at least one length of track.

[0082] The specific embodiments described above are merely illustrative and should be understood to be possible with various modifications and alternatives. It should also be understood that the above embodiments are intended as examples of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art can make changes and modifications to them without departing from the scope of this disclosure as defined solely by the appended claims.

[0083] Figure Labels

[0084] 10 Launching Device

[0085] 12 Toy cars

[0086] 12a Main Body

[0087] 12b A pair of front wheels

[0088] 12c A pair of rear wheels

[0089] 12D First Toy Car

[0090] 12e Second Toy Car

[0091] 20. Main track structure

[0092] 20a track segment

[0093] 20b Support base

[0094] 21 Guide Wall

[0095] 22. Maintain section

[0096] 22a Inverted support area

[0097] 24. The upper part is a basically straight slope.

[0098] 26. Curve ramp section

[0099] 26a The first part of the curve ramp

[0100] 28. Launch ramp section

[0101] 29. The end of the main track body

[0102] 30 Launch Sections

[0103] 30a First proximal portion

[0104] 30b Second Middle Section

[0105] 30c Third distal section

[0106] 40 Release element

[0107] 42 Lever element

[0108] 42a Slender lever arm

[0109] 43 First stop element

[0110] 45 Second stop element

[0111] 50 Support rails

[0112] 52 Upper track surface

[0113] 53 Side guide surfaces

[0114] 54 Lower track surface

[0115] 55 External support ribs

[0116] 56 Internal support ribs

[0117] 60 booster components

[0118] 62. Booster casing

[0119] 64. Booster mechanism

[0120] 70 Decorative Elements

[0121] 70 A pair of claw elements

[0122] 70b Leg Components

[0123] 70C Stinger Component

[0124] 80 blocking element

[0125] 80a Arched blocking element

[0126] 90 Loading section.

Claims

1. A toy car launching device for sequentially launching multiple toy cars, the launching device comprising: The main body of the track includes: A retaining section configured to support a plurality of toy cars in a sequentially arranged manner, at least a portion of the retaining section forming an inverted support region, said inverted support region configured to hold at least some of the toy cars in an at least partially inverted orientation; and The transmitting section is connected to the holding section; and A release element, which is movably connected to the track body, is used to move between a blocking position and a launching position. In the blocking position, the release element holds a plurality of toy cars on a holding section. In the launching position, the release element allows at least one of the plurality of toy cars to be released from the holding section onto the launching section. The launching section is oriented relative to the holding section, such that at least the first toy car among the multiple toy cars is released from the holding section onto the launching section under the action of gravity.

2. The launching device according to claim 1, further comprising: Booster elements are arranged along a portion of the launch section. The booster element is configured to engage with a first toy car among a plurality of toy cars released from the holding section, thereby accelerating the toy car along the launching section.

3. The launching device according to claim 1, wherein, The release element also includes: A lever element, rotatably mounted to a track body, for rotating between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the engaged position corresponding to a blocking position of the release element and the disengaged position corresponding to a launching position of the release element; and The first stop element is configured to engage with the first toy car among a plurality of toy cars when the lever element is in the engaged position.

4. The launching device according to claim 3, wherein, The first stop element is operatively connected to the lever element such that when the lever element is driven between the engaged and disengaged positions, the first stop element will rotate with the lever element.

5. The launching device according to claim 4, wherein, The release element also includes a second stop element, which is connected to the lever element remotely from the first stop element; and The second stop element is configured to engage with a second toy car among a plurality of toy cars held behind the first toy car when the lever element is in the disengaged position, so as to impede the second toy car when the first toy car is released from the holding section to the launching section.

6. The launching device according to claim 5, wherein, The release element also includes A biasing element, connected between the base unit and at least one of the lever element and the stop element, is used to bias the lever element toward the engagement position.

7. The launching device according to claim 1, wherein, At least the inverted support area of ​​the track body is constructed to include a pair of parallel support track rails; The pair of supporting track rails are spaced laterally apart from each other.

8. The launching device according to claim 7, wherein, Each of the pair of support rails defines a support space therein; and The dimensions of the support space for each support track are designed such that when multiple toy cars are supported on the track body, it at least partially supports at least one wheel of each of the multiple toy cars.

9. The launching device according to claim 8, wherein, Each of the pair of supporting track rails includes a lower track surface, an upper track surface, and a side guide surface; and The support space for each of the pair of support rails is defined between the side guide surface, the lower rail surface, and the upper rail surface.

10. The launching device according to claim 1, wherein the track body further comprises at least one blocking element; and in, At least one blocking element is positioned along the inverted support area and is configured to prevent multiple toy cars from traveling along the inverted support area in a face-up orientation.

11. The launching device according to claim 1, wherein, The retaining section of the track body includes a loading section configured to load at least one toy car from a plurality of toy cars into the retaining section; and The loading section is configured such that at least one of the multiple toy cars can be loaded into the holding section through the loading area in a first orientation that is at least partially inverted.

12. A toy track set and toy car kit, comprising: Multiple toy cars; as well as The launching device includes: The main body of the track includes: An inverted support area, configured to support multiple toy cars in an at least partially inverted orientation; and The launching section is connected to the inverted support area; A release element movable between a blocking position and a launching position, wherein in the blocking position the release element holds a plurality of toy cars on an inverted support area, and in the launching position the release element allows at least one of the plurality of toy cars to be released from the inverted support area onto the launching section; and The launching section is oriented relative to the inverted support area, such that at least the first toy car among the multiple toy cars released from the inverted support area moves onto the launching section under the influence of gravity.

13. The toy track set and toy car kit according to claim 12, further comprising: Booster elements, which are arranged along a portion of the launch section, The booster element is configured to engage with a first toy car among a plurality of toy cars released from the holding section, thereby accelerating the toy car along the launching section.

14. The toy track set and toy car kit according to claim 12, wherein, The release element also includes: A lever element, rotatably mounted to a track body, for rotating between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the engaged position corresponding to a blocking position of the release element and the disengaged position corresponding to a launching position of the release element; and The first stop element is configured to engage with the first toy car among a plurality of toy cars when the lever element is in the engaged position.

15. The toy track set and toy car kit according to claim 14, wherein, The first stop element is operatively connected to the lever element such that when the lever element is driven between the engaged and disengaged positions, the first stop element rotates with the lever element.

16. The toy track set and toy car kit according to claim 15, wherein, The release element also includes a second stop element connected to the lever element, located away from the first stop element; and The second stop element is configured to engage with a second toy car among a plurality of toy cars held behind the first toy car when the lever element is in the disengaged position, so as to impede the second toy car when the first toy car is released from the holding section to the launching section.

17. The toy track set and toy car kit according to claim 12, wherein, At least the inverted support area of ​​the track body is constructed to include a pair of parallel support track rails; The pair of supporting track rails are spaced laterally apart from each other.

18. The toy track set and toy car kit according to claim 17, wherein, Each of the pair of support rails defines a support space therein; and The dimensions of the support space for each support track are designed such that when multiple toy cars are supported on the track body, it at least partially supports at least one wheel of each of the multiple toy cars.

19. A toy car launching device for sequentially launching a plurality of toy cars, the launching device comprising: The main body of the track includes: A retaining section configured to support a plurality of toy cars in a sequentially arranged manner, at least a portion of the retaining section forming an inverted support region, said inverted support region being configured to hold at least some of the toy cars in a at least partially inverted first orientation; and The transmitting section is connected to the holding section; and A release element, which is movably connected to the track body, is used to move between a blocking position and a launching position. In the blocking position, the release element holds multiple toy cars on the holding section. In the launching position, the release element allows at least one of the multiple toy cars to be released from the holding section to the launching section under the action of gravity. The launching section is configured such that when at least one toy car is released onto the launching section, at least one toy car is held in a second orientation; and The second orientation is less inverted than the first orientation, which is at least partially inverted.

20. The launching device according to claim 19, wherein, The second orientation is an orientation that is at least partially upright.

Images