Toy vehicle playset and color changing toy vehicle

A toy vehicle playset has a color changing device or mechanism that can be used to activate a color change on a toy vehicle. In one embodiment, the playset includes a chamber configured to receive the toy vehicle. In another embodiment, the playset includes a launching mechanism that propels the toy vehicle along a track member and into a chamber.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Toys that have a portion that changes color are known. For example, some conventional toys include thermochromic material that changes color as the temperature of the toy, and in particular, the portion with the thermochromic material, changes. However, many conventional color changing toys lack a playset for use therewith in changing the color of the toy.

Thus, there is a need for a playset that can be used with color changing toy vehicles. In addition, there is a need for a toy vehicle playset with one or more color changing mechanisms that can be used to change the color of a toy vehicle.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, a toy vehicle playset includes a chamber that is configured to receive a toy vehicle with color changing properties. The playset includes a light source, such as a flash tube, proximate to the chamber. The light source can be activated to illuminate the chamber and apply light to a toy vehicle located in the chamber. The color changing material on the toy vehicle can change from clear to opaque in response to the light from the light source.

In one embodiment, the playset includes a launcher or launching mechanism that can be used to propel or eject the toy vehicle from the chamber. The launcher can be actuated by a child. The launcher can be coupled to the light source so that the actuation of the launcher results in the illumination of the light source and then the launching of the changed toy vehicle. In an alternative embodiment, the playset includes a switch that can be used to illuminate the light source without resulting in the launching of the toy vehicle. In still another embodiment, the playset may permit the vehicle to leave the chamber without the use of a launcher or launching mechanism—for example, by gravity alone.

In addition, the playset can include a tubular member through which the toy vehicle can travel. The tubular member can include light sources therein that direct light onto the passing toy vehicle.

The playset also includes a decorating area where the launched toy vehicle stops after its travel. The decorating area includes a rotatably mounted platform on which the toy vehicle can be positioned. The platform is rotatably by a child using an actuator that is coupled to the platform. The playset includes a light instrument that can be used by a child to direct ultraviolet (UV) light or near UV light from a light source, such as an LED, onto the toy vehicle while it is in the decorating area.

In one embodiment, the platform is adjustable so that the platform can be tipped or inclined by the child to discharge the toy vehicle from the playset when the child is finished decorating the toy vehicle.

In another embodiment, the playset can include a launcher mechanism that can launch or propel a toy vehicle along a portion of track into a color changing device. The color changing device includes a housing that is defined in part by a transparent cover that permits a child to see into the chamber or receptacle formed by the housing. The color changing device includes one or more UV LEDs that generate light that is directed toward the toy vehicle in the chamber.

In one embodiment, the UV LEDs are mounted to an arm or support that is movably supported by the housing and that can be manipulated by a child to focus the light on different parts of the toy vehicle. In another embodiment, the UV LEDs are fixedly coupled to supports that hold the LEDs in place relative to the toy vehicle in the chamber.

The color changing device includes a stop that is engaged by a toy vehicle launched into the chamber. The engagement of the toy vehicle with the stop closes a switch which results in the illumination of the UV LEDs. After the illumination process is completed, the child can rotate a handle coupled to the housing which moves the stop so that the toy vehicle can travel out of the color changing device.

The playset includes a rotatable platform onto which the toy vehicle travels from the color changing device. This platform is also rotatable by a child using an actuator. The child can use a light instrument and one of several stencils to add additional decorations to the toy vehicle.

In one embodiment, a light instrument has a nozzle that directs light output through an opening. The pattern of light output can be adjusted or changed by mounting a cap with an opening in a particular pattern or logo to the nozzle. A child can place the cap in contact with a surface of a toy vehicle to apply the violet light with a UV component from the light instrument through the patterned opening on the toy vehicle.

In one embodiment, a holder that rotatably supports a stencil can be used. The particular stencil coupled to the holder can be changed depending on the desired stencil. In addition, a transport holder can be provided to which the stencils that are not in use can be coupled for storage and transport. The transport holder also includes several openings into which the caps can be stored.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment of the present invention, a toy vehicle playset includes features that facilitate the changing of the color of a toy vehicle. The playset is configured so that a child can manipulate a toy vehicle relative thereto. In addition, the playset is configured for use with a toy vehicle.

In one embodiment, the toy vehicle includes a violet light activated paint thereon. The paint includes a color change pigment that changes in response to the presence or application of UV or near UV light. The toy vehicle may include a body portion that is formed of a molded plastic or resin. The color change pigment can be located in the molded plastic either throughout the body of the toy vehicle or one or more portions of the body of the toy vehicle. The color change pigment can be localized or concentrated in certain areas to form a pattern on the toy vehicle. Alternatively, the paint can be applied to an outer surface of the body of the toy vehicle. When violet light is applied to the toy vehicle, the UV component of the light activates the paint and changes the color from clear to tinted.

The term “toy vehicle” is used herein generally to refer to any type of toy vehicle. While a toy vehicle in the shape of a car is illustrated in the drawings, the toy vehicle can be a truck, or other vehicle. The toy vehicle can be a diecast car as well.

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, assembled and exploded perspective views of a toy vehicle playset are illustrated, respectively. In this embodiment, the toy vehicle playset10includes a housing20that is formed of an upper housing portion22and a lower housing portion24, as shown inFIG. 2. The housing portions22and24are formed of molded plastic and coupled together via connectors, such as screws. Alternatively, the housing portions22and24can be friction fit or snapped together. As shown inFIG. 2, housing portion22has opposite ends22A and22B and housing portion24has opposite ends24A and24B.

Housing portion22includes a pair of channels or grooves26and28formed therein. Similarly, housing portion24includes a pair of channels or grooves30and32therein. When the housing portions22and24are coupled together, grooves26and30cooperate to form a tubular-shaped channel and grooves28and32cooperate to form a tubular-shaped channel. Each of the channels is configured so that a toy vehicle can travel therethrough. Grooves26and30extend between the ends22A,24A and22B,24B. Grooves28and32do not extend the full length of the housing portions22and24. As shown inFIG. 2, groove32ends at an opening or chamber27where the toy vehicle is stopped. As described in detail below, the toy vehicle stops on a platform that is manipulatable by a child to use during additional decorating of the toy vehicle. Lower housing portion24includes a discharge or exit area29through which the toy vehicle can exit the housing20and the playset10.

Referring back toFIG. 1, the playset10includes a curved member40that can be used as a handle by a child to carry the playset10(such as shown inFIG. 3) when the housing is in a collapsed configuration11. The curved member40is formed of an upper curved portion50and a lower curved portion52. In one embodiment, the curved portions50and52are transparent or translucent, thereby permitting a child to see into the curved member40. In one embodiment, either one or both of the curved portions50and52may be tinted. The curved member40has opposite ends42and44(seeFIG. 1) that can be coupled to the housing20. In one embodiment, the ends42and44can be inserted into openings formed in the housing20by the grooves in the upper and lower housing portions22and24. In that arrangement, the ends42and44can be retained in the grooves via friction. In another embodiment, the ends42and44can be secured to the housing20by connectors, such as screws.

Each of the curved portions50and52includes a groove along its inner surface. Referring toFIG. 2, the grooves extend from end50A to end50B in curved portion50and from end52A to end52B in curved portion52. InFIG. 2, only groove54in curved portion52is shown for simplicity only. When the upper and lower curved portions50and52are coupled together, the grooves in each of the curved portions collectively form a tubular channel through which a toy vehicle can travel. This tubular channel is in communication with the previously described channels formed by the housing portions22and24. As a result, a toy vehicle can travel from the channel formed by grooves26and30, into and through the channel formed in curved portion40, and through the channel formed by grooves28and32to the decorating area near chamber27.

In this embodiment, upper curved portion52includes a projection56that extends from end50B. The projection56is inserted into the groove28when the curved member40is mounted to the housing20.

Referring back toFIG. 1, the toy playset10includes several locations at which light, such as violet light with a UV component, can be applied to a toy vehicle in or on the playset10. The toy vehicle includes a light-activated pigment or paint on or in at least a portion of the toy vehicle. For example, the pigment or paint can be included in the material that is molded to form the body of the toy vehicle. Alternatively, the pigment or paint can be applied to an outer surface of the body of the toy vehicle as a coating of paint, a sticker, or other additional material. Also, the pigment or paint can be included on any portion of the toy vehicle, including the body and/or the wheels.

The playset10includes a light chamber70that contains a light source that can be activated to illuminate the toy vehicle in the light chamber70. In addition, a light source can be located in the curved member40so that a toy vehicle passing through curved member40is illuminated as well. Finally, the playset10includes a design portion or area120that can be used by a child to decorate or further modify the appearance of the toy vehicle. In this embodiment, a light instrument150is located near the area120and can be used by a child to apply additional light to the toy vehicle.

In this embodiment, as shown inFIG. 4, the curved member40includes light piping48that extends along the interior of the curved member40. The light piping48can be used to provide illumination to the toy vehicle passing through the channel of the curved member40to activate the color changing pigment on the toy vehicle200. Several LEDs (not shown) are located along the light piping48in curved member40to provide light in the tunnel of the curved member40.

Referring back toFIGS. 1 and 2, a lid71is movably coupled to the housing20. As shown inFIG. 2, the upper housing portion22has a pair of shoulders21and a cavity23formed therein. The lid71has a body72and a mounting end74. The mounting end74is sized so that it fits between the shoulders21on housing portion22. The shoulders21have openings that receive projections on opposite sides of the mounting end74to rotatably mount the lid71to housing portion22. The lid71also includes a cavity or receptacle76formed therein.

A handle or loader90is slidable into the cavity76in the lid71. The loader90has with an end92and a receptacle94formed therein. The receptacle94is sized to receive a stencil100that includes one or more transparent or open portions surrounded by opaque material. The stencil100can be placed in the receptacle94and the loader90slid into the cavity76in the lid71. Referring toFIG. 1, the movement of the loader90with the lid71is illustrated. After a stencil100is placed in the loader90, the lid71is pivoted to an opened position71A (shown in phantom). The loader90is aligned with the cavity76and moved along the direction of arrow “A” from a first position98A to a second position98B in which the stencil100is located within the lid71. After the loader90has been inserted, the lid71and the loader90can be pivoted toward the upper housing portion22to a use position96.

Also as shown inFIG. 1, the upper housing portion22has several slits or slots into which different stencils100can be inserted and stored when not in use.

Referring toFIGS. 2 and 5, some of the components of the light chamber70are described. In light chamber70there is a Mylar® (a DuPont trade name for biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate, or BoPET, polyester film) sheet102that is located along the inner surface of the lid71. In addition, a light source110is positioned inside of the Mylar sheet102. A lens104is positioned beneath the light source110. In one embodiment, the lens104is a Fresnal lens with a face105having several facets formed thereon that are angled to direct light from the light source110toward a toy vehicle200located beneath the lid71in the light chamber70. In an alternative embodiment, the lens104may have a substantially planar face without facets.

In this embodiment, the light source110is a Xenon flash tube. When activated, the flash tube briefly illuminates the interior of the light chamber70. The lens104can focus the flash of light from the tube110toward the toy vehicle200. In one embodiment, the housing20includes a switch that prevents the light source110from illuminating if the lid71is in an opened position and not closed.

Referring toFIG. 5, another Mylar sheet106is coupled proximate to the lid71. The Mylar sheet106is used to contain the light from the light source110in the light chamber70. The Mylar sheet106can be flexible so that the toy vehicle200can contact and move along the sheet106into the channel46in curved member40. Alternatively or in addition, the sheet106can be pivotally mounted at joint107so that the sheet106pivots about joint107when the sheet106is engaged by the toy vehicle200.

Referring toFIG. 5A, a diagram of the circuit for the light chamber70is illustrated. In this embodiment, the circuit250includes a power source252, such as a “AA” battery, and the light source110, which is a Xenon flash tube. The circuit250also includes a push button switch254, a capacitor256, and another switch258.

Referring back toFIGS. 1,2, and4, the playset10includes an actuator mechanism60that can be used to propel or launch a toy vehicle200within the playset10. In this embodiment, the actuator mechanism60includes a button62that is mounted for movement in an opening66(seeFIG. 2) formed in the housing20. The button62is biased upwardly by a biasing member64, such as a spring. The movement of the button62upwardly is limited by the engagement of a shoulder63formed around the perimeter of the button62with an inner surface defining the opening66. The button62is connected to a launcher68that is configured to engage the toy vehicle200. Referring toFIG. 5, when a child presses on button62along the direction of arrow “D,” the launcher68causes the toy vehicle200to move out of the light chamber70and into channel46along the direction of arrow “E.”

In addition, pressing the button62results in a flash of light from light source110. Thus, the toy vehicle200is launched out of the chamber70the instant that it is blasted with light. Alternatively and/or in addition, a separate switch61is provided that can activate the light source110without launching the toy vehicle200.

The moving toy vehicle200then travels through the curved member40and back into the housing20. As the toy vehicle200moves through curved member40, the light piping48can be illuminated constantly and/or intermittently (flashing) for a few seconds. The light from the light piping48illuminates the toy vehicle200as well as facilitates the viewing of the internal channel46of the curved member40.

Thus, once the flash tube110is illuminated, the color change pigment of the toy vehicle200is activated. This activation results in the color of one or more portions of the toy vehicle200changing from the initial appearance of the toy vehicle200. The toy vehicle200travels until it reaches the decorating area120of the playset10.

Referring toFIGS. 1,2, and6, the housing20has an opening25that permits a child to view the toy vehicle200when the toy vehicle200is stopped in the chamber125(seeFIG. 6) of area120. In this embodiment, a pair of plastic dome-like structures122and124is pivotally mounted to the housing20. The dome-like structures122and124are transparent and tinted to permit light to pass therethrough and to allow the child to view the toy vehicle200. In one implementation, the dome-like structures122and124can be pivoted away from each other to allow a child to access the chamber and remove the toy vehicle200manually, if desired. Each of the structures122and124can be raised individually for different tinted effects.

The decorating area120includes a light instrument150that can be used by a child to decorate the toy vehicle200, a portion of which has already changed color. The light instrument150is mounted on a flexible support152that allows for the repositioning of the light instrument150and in particular, the light emitting portion154. The lower end of the flexible support152is insertable into an opening in the playset to mount the light instrument150. The flexible support152retains its position until moved again by the child. The light emitting portion154includes a light source that emits UV light or violet light with a UV component. The emitted light can be directed onto the surface of the toy vehicle200to create a pattern or visual effect on the toy vehicle200. The light instrument150is removable and has its own power source.

The decorating area120includes a magnifying glass140that is coupled to a flexible support142that permits movement of the glass140by a child. Once moved, the flexible support142retains its position until moved again by the child. Accordingly, a child can position the glass140as desired for use in inspecting and decorating the toy vehicle200.

When the toy vehicle200is in the decorating area120, the toy vehicle200is on a platform160as shown inFIG. 6. The platform160has an upper surface162and a lower surface164. In this embodiment, the platform160is mounted for rotation back and forth along the directions of arrow “F” about an axis166. As shown inFIGS. 1 and 6, a knob130is accessible for a child to grasp and rotate along the directions of arrow “B” about an axis132. As the platform160rotates, a child can decorate the toy vehicle200thereon with a light pen, such as by drawing a continuous stripe around the toy vehicle200.

In this embodiment, the knob130is coupled to an end of an elongate member or rod134that has a longitudinal axis that forms axis132. The other end of the elongate member134is engaged with the platform160and can cause the platform160to move. For example, a driver member136with an outer surface is in contact with the platform so that as the knob130rotates, the elongate member134and the driver member136also rotate, thereby causing the platform160to rotate about axis166. The rotation of the platform160and the toy vehicle200thereon allows a child to decorate different portions of the toy vehicle200with light instrument150while in the chamber125.

When the child has finished decorating the toy vehicle200in chamber125, the toy vehicle200can be released from the chamber125and allowed to move out of the housing20along the direction of arrow “C” inFIG. 1via exit or ramp29. Referring toFIG. 7, a schematic diagram is illustrated showing this movement of the toy vehicle200. The platform160can tip or tilt relative to the dome-like structure122. In this embodiment, the platform160can pivot about axis165along the direction of arrow “G” from a decorating position167(shown in phantom) in which the platform160is substantially horizontal to a releasing position168in which the platform160is proximate to an exit track170. When the platform160is in its releasing position168, a toy vehicle200thereon can roll from the platform160to the track170and exit the housing along the direction of arrow “H.” The pivoting of the platform160can be accomplished using a lever or actuator that is coupled to the housing20and the platform160.

Referring toFIG. 8, an alternative embodiment of a playset according to the present invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, a toy vehicle is initially placed on a launcher. The toy vehicle is launched along a portion of track into a light chamber. The toy vehicle, which has color changing properties, is immersed in UV light from one or more light sources. After the color changing portion of the toy vehicle has changed color, the child can release the car from the light chamber. The changed toy vehicle stops on a rotatable platform and can be further decorated by a child using a light instrument.

As shown inFIG. 8, the playset300includes a base310, a launcher320, an intersecting portion330, a track portion in the form of a loop350, and a light chamber or color changing device360. The base310is configured to be placed on a support surface. The launcher320is coupled to the base310and has a track portion322and an engagement member324that is cocked or loaded relative to the body of the launcher320. When the engagement member324is loaded, a child can press on the actuator326to release the spring-loaded member324, which engages the toy vehicle200and propels it along the direction of arrow “L” through the intersecting portion330and along the track loop portion350. The intersecting portion330includes a track portion336with which an end352of the loop350is coupled via friction or a connector. The other end354of the loop350is coupled to a track portion368of the color changing device360via friction or a connector.

The color changing device360is formed of housing portions362and364that are coupled together. In this embodiment, housing portion364is transparent and permits a user to view the interior area or chamber366of the device360. Proximate to a lower end of the transparent housing portion364is an edge370to forms a slot372.

As shown inFIG. 8A, the track portion368in the chamber366has a stop367that limits the movement of the toy vehicle200in the chamber366. The stop367can function as a releasable trap door. The stop367is located proximate to the lower end of the track portion368. The toy vehicle200travels into the chamber until the toy vehicle200engages the stop367. Coupled to the stop367or proximate thereto is a switch369that is closed when the toy vehicle200engages the stop367and is in its decorating position in the chamber366. The switch369is part of an electronic circuit371and when the switch369is closed, the light sources in the chamber366are turned on and illuminated. The circuit371includes a power source, such as multiple “AA” batteries.

The device360includes a light applicator380that is movable relative to the housing portion364and the chamber366. The light applicator380includes a handle382that extends through the slot372and that is coupled to a body384. The distal end of the handle382is sized so that it can be grasped by a child and moved back and forth along the slot372along the directions of arrow “I.” Coupled to the body384are several UV LEDs386. The LEDs386generate UV light388which is directed toward the track portion368. When the toy vehicle200closes the switch369, the LEDs386are illuminated and the UV light388is directed at the toy vehicle200.

In one implementation, the LEDs386are illuminated in a flashing sequence for two seconds, are illuminated continuously for seventeen seconds, and finally flash for one second. In different implementations, the pattern of illumination of the LEDs386can vary.

The housing of the color changing device360has an exit392that defines an opening394through which the toy vehicle200in the chamber366can pass after the stop367is released by movement of the handle400by a child along the direction of arrow “J” about axis401. The handle400is coupled to stop367, which moves relative to the track368to a position that permits the toy vehicle200to be released from the chamber366.

The released toy vehicle201travels until it engages stop338, which is pivotally mounted to intersection portion330. Engagement with the stop338causes the changed toy vehicle201to remain on the upper surface342of a platform340that is rotatably mounted in a cavity332in platform330. In one embodiment, the orientation of the platform340can be changed by a child via an actuator, similar to that described above relative toFIG. 6.

In this position, a child can decorate the changed toy vehicle201using a light instrument410, such as a light pen. The light instrument410includes a light source418that generates UV light that can be directed onto a surface of the toy vehicle201. Referring toFIG. 16, an exemplary light instrument410is illustrated. The light instrument410includes a body412and an actuator414that can be pressed to close a switch and activate the illumination circuit of the instrument410. The forward end416of the instrument410includes a light source418that emits or generates light. The instrument410has its own power source, which can be several button cells.

Referring back toFIG. 8, the light from the light instrument410can be shown through slots or transparent portions422of a stencil420that is held proximate to toy vehicle201by a child. If the stencil420is held in position relative to the toy vehicle201, a specific pattern or patterns can be drawn on the toy vehicle201in the shape of the slot or slots through which the UV light passes from instrument410. In one embodiment, the stencil420is made of a soft clear material type that can stick to a toy vehicle200, such as a diecast car, and not slide on the toy vehicle200.

When the instrument410is not in use, the instrument410can be inserted into an opening346formed in mount344. When the child has finished decorating the toy vehicle201, the stop338can be pivoted upwardly and the toy vehicle201can travel down ramp334away from the playset300.

Referring toFIG. 9, an alternative embodiment of a platform that can be used with playset300is illustrated. In particular, platform450has a different upper surface than and can be used instead of platform400. In this embodiment, platform450has guides or raised members452,454,456, and458that define pathways462,464,466, and468therebetween. The pathways462,464,466, and468are aligned with different track portions of the playset300. For example, pathway468is aligned with track portion336which leads to the loop, pathway462is aligned with track portion396which is the exit from the device360, pathway464is aligned with track portion322of launcher320, and pathway466is aligned with exit track portion334. This arrangement of pathways permits a toy vehicle200propelled by launcher320to travel across the platform450to the loop350.

The upper surface460of platform450has a pair of notches470and472formed therein. The notches470and472are configured to receive the front wheels of a toy vehicle200that exits the device360via track396. The notches470and472stop the movement of the toy vehicle200relative to the platform450and accordingly, assist with holding the toy vehicle200in place on the platform450while it is decorated.

Referring toFIG. 10, an alternative embodiment of a toy vehicle playset according to the present invention is illustrated. Playset500has several components and features that are similar to playset300. Accordingly, the features of playset500that are different than playset300are described.

Playset500includes a base510, a launcher520, an intersection portion530, a track loop540, and a color changing device or light chamber550. A toy vehicle200can be launched by launcher520across the intersection portion530, around loop540, and into the device550. The color changing device550includes a housing that is formed by housing portions coupled together. One of the housing portions is a transparent cover552that permits a child to see into the chamber554defined by the housing and view a toy vehicle200that is located on track portion556.

In this embodiment, the color changing device550includes a light assembly that has several light sources that are fixed relative to the chamber554. A support560is positioned on one side of the chamber554. The support560has several UV LEDs562coupled thereto. The support560holds the LEDs562in a direction oriented at the track portion556. Another support570is positioned on the other side of the track portion556. Support570also holds several UV LEDs572. When the electrical system is activated by a child, the UV LEDs562are illuminated for a brief period of time, such as twenty seconds.

After the UV LEDs562and572are no longer illuminated, the toy vehicle200in the chamber554can be released from the device550through tube582along track584. The toy vehicle200is released when a child rotates handle580along the direction of arrow “M,” which move the internal stop or gate which retained the toy vehicle200in the chamber554.

In playset500, the platform592on which the changed toy vehicle201can be decorated is located beyond the intersection portion530. The platform592is rotatably mounted on a support590. The orientation of the platform592can be adjusted via an actuator593, which can be a knob. The advancement of the toy vehicle201is limited by the stop or gate594.

The toy vehicle201can be decorated using a light instrument598with a light source599. Different patterns can be applied to the toy vehicle201using one of several stencils595that can be coupled together on a ring596.

Referring toFIGS. 11 and 12, an embodiment of a light assembly is illustrated. The light assembly605is exemplary of a light assembly that can be used in the chamber554of color changing device550. As shown, the light assembly605is located proximate to track600(which corresponds to track portion556of device550) so that UV light from the assembly605is shown directly onto a toy vehicle201on the track600.

On opposite sides of the track600are supports or holders610and640. The supports610and640are vacuum metalized holders that trap and hold LEDs and wires in location in the chamber beneath the clear chamber. Support610includes a base620and several support arms612,614,616, and618that extend upwardly from the base620. At the upper end of the arms612,614,616, and618are mounting portions622,624,626, and628with respective openings632,634,636, and638in which UV LEDs are mounted. Support640has a similar structure to support610. InFIG. 11, only one of the arms of the support640is described for simplicity. Arm644extends upwardly from the base642and its mounting portion646has a tapered inner surface648leading to its opening650. Also, the arm644has a groove648A in which wire670is located. In one embodiment, the other mounting portions of the supports610and640have similarly tapered surfaces. In other embodiments, the mounting portions of the supports610and640may have straight and not tapered surfaces.

Also illustrated inFIG. 11is a light set660that has several UV LEDs671,673,675,677,681,683,685, and687and their corresponding wiring670,672,674,676,680,682,684, and686. Each of the LEDs is inserted into the opening in a corresponding one of the mounting portions of the arms of either support610or640.

Referring toFIG. 12, a cross-sectional view of some of the components of a light assembly is illustrated. Within the chamber defined by the transparent cover690, LEDs681and671are inserted into mounting portions622and646, respectively. The LEDs681and671are oriented so that they are directed toward the track600.

Referring toFIG. 13, a container simulating a transparent housing portion692is illustrated with a toy vehicle200positioned along track600in a chamber defined by the portion692. The two sets694and696of UV LEDs are shown on opposite sides of the toy vehicle200.

Referring toFIG. 14, an assembly or system for use in decorating a toy vehicle is illustrated. In this assembly, there are several different components which can be used individually or in cooperation with other components by a child to decorate a toy vehicle. The assembly700includes a toy vehicle710with a portion712that changes color in response to the application of UV light. As mentioned above, the color change portion712can be part of the molded body of the toy vehicle710or a coating of paint applied to the toy vehicle710.

A light applicator or instrument720can be used to direct UV light onto the toy vehicle710. Referring toFIGS. 14 and 15, the instrument720includes a housing722with a hand grip portion724and a barrel portion with a distal end. A power source732, such as a battery, is located in the hand grip portion724. The instrument720has an actuatable trigger726that is connected to a rotatably mounted actuator728that has a projection730.

The instrument720has a light source760, such as a UV LED, located proximate to its distal end. The light source760is illuminated when a child pulls the trigger726, which rotates actuator728and causes projection730to depress button742of switch740. When the button742is pressed, the switch740is closed and the LED760is illuminated.

The instrument720includes a nozzle750at its distal end. The nozzle750has an outer surface752with grooves753A and an end753B. The nozzle750also has a centrally located through hole or opening754through which light from the LED760, which may extend part way though the opening754, passes.

The UV light emitted by the LED760can be directed or focused in a variety of ways. In one exemplary usage, the UV light can be directed through a stencil. In this embodiment, a holder770can be used to support the stencil and facilitate the positioning of the stencil relative to a toy vehicle710. The holder770has a handle portion776and a groove772formed therein. The groove772is sized to permit rotation of the stencil780that is rotatably mounted to the holder770via a connector774. The connector774passes through holes in the holder770and a centrally located hole in the stencil780. A child can rotate the stencil780along the direction of arrow “N” about axis775so that the desired opening782in the stencil780is accessible and useable. A child can hold the handle portion776so that the opening or openings782in the stencil780are proximate to the toy vehicle710. Accordingly, UV light from the instrument720, or other instrument such as instrument410, can be directed through the stencil780. InFIG. 14, other exemplary stencils790and800with openings792and802and central mounting holes794and804are illustrated.

Alternatively, the UV light from instrument720can be controlled using a cap that is attached to the nozzle750of the instrument720. The cap has a certain quantity and pattern of one or more openings that allow the light to pass therethrough. Referring toFIG. 14, cap810has a side wall812and an end wall816that define a cavity814. The cavity814is sized and configured to be snapped onto the outer surface752of the nozzle750. In one embodiment, the end of the side wall812has one or more protrusions or projections that extend around the end753B of the nozzle750to allow the cap810to be snapped onto the nozzle750.

As shown, the end wall816of the cap810has an opening818formed therein. When the cap810is mounted to nozzle750, the UV light from instrument720is limited to the pattern of the opening818in cap810. Thus, a child can select cap810with opening818, cap820with opening828, cap830with openings838, or another cap with one or more openings based on the desired pattern for use with instrument720to decorate a toy vehicle700. The child can place the desired cap on the nozzle750, activate the instrument720, and put the cap in contact with a surface of the toy vehicle700to get a focused, clear pattern of light applied to the surface of the toy vehicle700through the opening in the cap.

Also illustrated inFIG. 14is a holder840that can be formed of a resilient material. The holder840has an opening845that can be used to couple the holder840to a keychain ring or a chain. The holder840has a body portion842with an internal wall844that defines a receptacle846in which one or stencils, such as stencil790, can be placed for storage and transport. A post847is centrally located in the receptacle846. The post847is positioned so that the central mounting holes of the stencils can be placed over the post847to align the stencils in the receptacle846. In one embodiment, the post847may include one or more bumps or protrusions that extend laterally outward near the distal end of the post847. The bumps provide resistance so that the stencils do not easily slide off of the holder840.

The holder840also has several openings850,852, and854in which the caps810,820, and830can be inserted and retained via friction. As shown inFIG. 14, a side wall848defines opening850and is substantially circular. In different embodiments, any number of openings850,852, and854can be provided in the holder840.

Referring toFIG. 17, an alternative embodiment of a playset according to the present invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, a toy vehicle is initially placed on a launcher. The toy vehicle is launched along a portion of track into a light chamber. The toy vehicle, which has color changing properties, is immersed in UV light from one or more light sources. After the color changing portion of the toy vehicle has changed color, the child can release the car from the light chamber. The changed toy vehicle travels along a spiral track and stops on a rotatable platform and can be further decorated by a child using a light instrument.

As shown inFIG. 17, the playset900includes a base910, a launcher920, an uphill track portion930, a spiral track portion940, a light chamber950, and color changing instrument970. The base910is configured to be placed on a support surface. The launcher920is coupled to the uphill track portion930and an engagement member922that is cocked or loaded relative to the body of the launcher920. When the engagement member922is loaded, a child can press on the actuator924to release the spring-loaded engagement member922, which engages the toy vehicle (not shown inFIG. 17) and propels it along the direction of arrow “O” up and along the uphill track portion930. The uphill track portion930is coupled to the light chamber950via friction or a connector. The uphill track portion930contains a guide member932that prevents the toy vehicle from flying off of the track before entering the light chamber950.

In this embodiment, the light chamber950includes a light assembly that has several light sources that are fixed relative to the interior chamber953which is defined by a housing951with a transparent portion952. A support960is positioned on one side of the interior chamber953. The support960has several UV LEDs962coupled thereto. The support960holds the LEDs962in a direction oriented at the track portion954. Another support964is positioned on the other side of the track portion954. Support964also holds several UV LEDs966. When the electrical system is activated by a child, the UV LEDs962and966are illuminated for a brief period of time, such as twenty seconds.

After the UV LEDs962and966are no longer illuminated, the toy vehicle in light chamber950can be released. The toy vehicle is released when a child rotates handle956along the direction of arrow “P,” which moves the internal stop or gate which retained the toy vehicle in the light chamber950.

In playset900, a platform912is rotatably mounted on base910. The platform912is positioned beyond the connection between the spiral track portion940and the base910. Positioned adjacent to the platform912on base910is a stencil holder914and the color changing instrument970. The color changing instrument970is attached to the base910via a repositionable support arm978. The support arm978provides stability to the color changing instrument970when it is used to decorate the toy vehicle.

Referring toFIGS. 18 and 19, an embodiment of the color changing instrument970is illustrated. The color changing instrument970is used to direct UV light onto a toy vehicle. The instrument970includes a housing971with a hand grip portion973. The hand grip portion973has an actuator974disposed on it. A power source (not shown), such as a battery, is located in the hand grip portion973. The instrument970has an internal light source, such as a UV LED, located proximate to its distal end. The light source is illuminated when a child pushes the actuator974.

The instrument970includes a receptacle975that is configured to receive a stencil980. The stencil980may rotate within the receptacle975. When aligned properly within the receptacle975, the stencil980directs or focuses the UV light emitted from the light source972, allowing a child to create designs on the toy vehicle. Furthermore, the receptacle975contains a viewing portion976, which is a cut away portion of the receptacle975.

Referring toFIG. 20, an embodiment of the stencil980is illustrated. In this embodiment, stencil980may contain up to three stencil designs982A,982B, and982C. In other embodiments, the stencil980may contain more or less designs. The stencil980may also contain design indicators984A,984B, and984C positioned opposite on the stencil from their corresponding stencil designs982A,982B, and982C. In this embodiment, indicator984A refers to design982A. Furthermore, indicator984B refers to design982B, and indicator984C refers to design982C. The view portion976of the instrument970(seeFIGS. 18 and 19) allows the child to view the stencil indicator984A,984B, or984C that indicates which stencil design982A,982B, or982C is aligned with the light source972within the receptacle975.

It is to be understood that terms such as “left,” “right,” “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “end,” “rear,” “side,” “height,” “length,” “width,” “upper,” “lower,” “interior,” “exterior,” “inner,” “outer” and the like as may be used herein, merely describe points or portions of reference and do not limit the present invention to any particular orientation or configuration. Further, terms such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., merely identify one of a number of portions, components and/or points of reference as disclosed herein, and do not limit the present invention to any particular configuration or orientation.

Although the disclosed inventions are illustrated and described herein as embodied in one or more specific examples, it is nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the inventions. In addition, various features from one of the embodiments may be incorporated into another of the embodiments. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the invention be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure.