Toy vehicle for picking up and relaying track

A toy vehicle includes a main body assembly supported for movement on wheels and having opposing right and left lateral sides, opposing front and rear ends, and opposing top and bottom sides extending between the lateral sides and the ends. The combined opposing right and left lateral sides and opposing top and bottom sides of the main body assembly define a slot that extends through the toy vehicle. An arm is provided for lifting at least one track segment from a level below the main body assembly up and into the slot while one or more other propulsion elements are provided in or around the slot to engage and move the one track segment from the one end of the vehicle entirely through the main body assembly along the slot and out the opposing end of the vehicle.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to toy vehicles and, more particularly, to toy vehicles configured for picking up and relaying track over which the toy vehicle moves and configured for moving in at least two separate and distinct modes and/or travel paths.

Toy vehicles are generally known. Consumers today, especially those that play with dynamic toys, such as remote-controlled toy vehicles, desire new and unique features, motion and/or maneuvers. A toy vehicle having unique features or motion often engages the consumers attention for a longer period of time and has enhanced play value.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Briefly stated, the present invention is directed to a toy vehicle including a main body assembly having opposing right and left lateral sides, opposing front and rear ends, and opposing top and bottom sides extending between the lateral sides and the ends. The combined opposing right and left lateral sides and opposing top and bottom sides of the main body assembly define a slot that extends through the toy vehicle. The toy vehicle further includes means for lifting at least one track segment from a level below the main body assembly up and into the slot and moving the at least one track segment entirely through the main body along the slot from one end of the toy vehicle to the opposing end of the toy vehicle.

In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of operating a toy vehicle. The method includes propelling the toy vehicle in a first direction over at least one track segment, picking up at least an end of the at least one track segment, passing the at least one track segment longitudinally through the toy vehicle from the one end to an opposite end of the toy vehicle, and relaying the at least one track segment at an opposite end of the toy vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “right,” “left,” “lower” and “upper” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the toy vehicle, and designated parts thereof, in accordance with the present invention. Unless specifically set forth herein, the terms “a,” “an” and “the” are not limited to one element but instead should be read as meaning “at least one.” The terminology includes the words noted above, derivatives thereof and words of similar import.

Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals indicate like elements throughout, there is shown inFIGS. 1-14Ba toy vehicle, generally designated10, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, the toy vehicle10is configured to pick up and relay at least one track segment or section12over which the toy vehicle10moves. Further, the toy vehicle10is preferably configured to operate in a distinct first or “magic” operational configuration or mode (FIGS. 1,2and2A) and a distinct second or “classic” operational configuration or mode (FIG. 3). Alternatively, the toy vehicle10may be capable of only one of the above features. Although reference herein is made specifically to a toy vehicle10in the form of a self-propelled train or locomotive, it is understood by those skilled in the art that the specific structural arrangements and methods described herein may be employed in virtually any type of toy vehicle, such as an automobile, truck, trolley car, subway car, or the like.

In the magic mode, the toy vehicle10preferably picks up and relays at least one track segment12as the toy vehicle10moves generally straight in a first or forward direction or in an opposite second or reverse direction, as described in detail below. Specifically, as seen inFIGS. 1,2and6, it is preferred that in the magic mode the at least one track segment12is moved or propelled entirely through or within the toy vehicle10while the toy vehicle10is moving or traveling in the same direction as the at least one track segment12is propelled (i.e., forward direction). In the classic mode, the toy vehicle10preferably moves in a generally circular or ovular fashion in either the first or second directions, without picking up and relaying a track segment12, as described in detail below. However, in the classic mode, the toy vehicle10is preferably capable of moving in any direction defined by two or more track segments12, such as a curvilinear direction or a direction in the shape of an “S.” It is understood by those skilled in the art that the toy vehicle10is capable of moving without the use of one or more track segments12, such as directly on or across a table top, floor, the ground or other track support surface, for example, with rotation toy vehicle10wheels powering the other parts of the toy vehicle's mechanism.

Preferably, power is supplied to the toy vehicle10by one or more reusable or disposable batteries (not shown) that that are removably enclosed within a battery housing90(FIG. 11) of the toy vehicle10. However, the toy vehicle10may be powered by virtually any mechanism or source, such as by a power cord (not shown) designed to operatively engage a conventional electrical outlet or by solar power, for example. Furthermore, the toy vehicle10may incorporate a winding mechanism (not shown), for example, that when initiated or wound by a user releases user-generated and/or stored energy to propel the toy vehicle10and/or designated parts thereof. Alternatively, the toy vehicle10may simply require a user to physically move the toy vehicle10across the at least one track segment12or directly on the track support surface, for example, with rotation of the toy vehicle's wheels powering other parts of the track relaying mechanism.

Referring toFIGS. 1,2,3and6, the at least one track segment12preferably has a first embodiment comprised of at least one but preferably a pair of generally identical, separable and generally straight (linear) track segments12a(FIGS. 1,2and6) and a second or alternative embodiment comprised of at least one but preferably several (e.g., eight) generally identical, separable and generally curved (arcuate) track segments (not shown). In the preferred embodiment, at least one of the straight track segments12aallows the toy vehicle10to operate in the magic mode and the several separable curved track segments, which in the preferred embodiment form a closed circular or ovular track pattern, allows the toy vehicle10to operate in the classic mode. It is understood that the size and shape of the track segments12may be modified. For example, a single unitary closed circuit (e.g., circular or ovular) track pattern can be provided for the toy vehicle10to operate in the classic mode. In addition, any combination of straight and curved track segments12may be combined to form a generally limitless number of distinct and/or unique track patterns for the toy vehicle10to travel over and/or on.

Each track segment12preferably includes a first or top surface13that supports, engages and/or faces at least a portion of the toy vehicle10when the toy vehicle10is being driven over the track segment. Further, each track segment12preferably includes an opposing second or bottom surface15(FIG. 6) generally in facing engagement with the ground, floor or other track support surface during use of the track segment12and the toy vehicle10. The bottom surface15of each track segment12may include a grip member186(FIG. 6), preferably formed a relatively soft or malleable polymeric material, to increase the friction between each track segment12and the track support surface to prevent inadvertent sliding or movement of the track segment12with respect to the track support surface.

A first end44aof each track segment12preferably includes a magnet42therein or thereon. In the preferred embodiment, the magnet42is located within or is enclosed by the first end44aof each track segment12. Further, each track segment12may include at least one rail48that extends upwardly from a remainder of the top surface13thereof. In the preferred embodiment, each straight track segment12aincludes two spaced-apart rails48athat extend generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of each straight track segment12aand each curved track segment includes two spaced-apart rails (not shown) that are curved to generally match the arcuate shape of the curved track segment. It is understood by those skilled in the art that the toy vehicle10is capable of moving directly on or across a track segment12that is void of any rails48or that includes more than two rails48, as well as moving over a track segment spanning the track segment rather than running along the top surface.

As seen inFIGS. 1,2and6, the first end44aof each track segment12is preferably sized and shaped to form a male-type connector45and an opposing second end46aof each track segment12is preferably sized and shaped to form a female-type connector47. In the preferred embodiment, the male-type connector45is in the shape of a silhouette of the head of a Mickey Mouse® character and the female-type connector47includes a cut-out that is sized and shaped to receive the male-type connector45of an opposing first end44aof one of the track segments12. However, the size and shape of each connector45,47may be modified. Further, it is understood by those skilled in the art that the track segments12may include virtually any type of connector, such as a tongue-and-groove connection or slot-and-pin connection, for example.

Referring again toFIGS. 1-14B, the toy vehicle10preferably includes a main body assembly14generally formed of a first or right half68(FIG. 10), which defines a first or right lateral side16(FIGS. 1-6), and an opposing second or left half70(FIG. 11), which defines an opposing second or left lateral side18(FIGS. 1 and 4). The main body assembly14further preferably includes a first or front end20and an opposing second or rear end22. In addition, the main body assembly14preferably includes a third or top side24and an opposing fourth or bottom side26. The top and bottom sides24,26preferably extend between the lateral sides16,18and the ends20,22.

In the preferred embodiment, the combined opposing right and left lateral sides16,18and the opposing top and bottom sides24,26of the main body assembly14preferably define a slot30(FIGS. 6-9) that extends through at least a portion of the toy vehicle10. Specifically, it is preferred that the slot30defines an opening or passageway that generally extends completely through the toy vehicle10from the front end20to the rear end22and generally parallel to a longitudinal axis thereof. Specifically, as seen inFIG. 7, the slot30has a first or top surface30a, an opposing second or bottom surface30b, a third or right sidewall30cand an opposing fourth or left sidewall30d. The top and bottom surfaces30a,30bpreferably extend generally perpendicularly to both the right and left sidewalls30c,30d, but the slot30is not limited to such a configuration. Further, the slot30is preferably sized and shaped to receive and pass at least one entire straight track segment12atherethrough. However, it is understood that the size and shape of the slot30may be modified to receive a curved track segment therethrough, such that the toy vehicle10could operate in the magic mode using at least one curved track segment.

As seen inFIG. 5, the toy vehicle10may include a door50that is preferably pivotably attached to the main body assembly14and generally closes a front end of the slot30. Specifically, gravity preferably biases the door50in a first or closed position (FIG. 5) when the toy vehicle10is placed upright on the track support surface (FIG. 1) such that the front end of the slot30is generally blocked or closed. The door50is preferably pivotable between the first or closed position (FIG. 5) to an opposing second or open position (FIGS. 6 and 7). In operation of the preferred embodiment, and as described in detail below, as at least one straight track segment12ais moved through the slot30, a leading end, such as the first end44a, of the straight track segment12adirectly contacts a rearward-facing side of the door50and forces the door50from the closed position to the open position such that the straight track segment12acan pass completely through the slot30. Once a trailing end, such as the second end44aof the straight track segment12apasses beyond the door50, the door50swings back to the closed position. The door50is designed to provide an aesthetically-pleasing appearance to the front end20of the main body assembly14and/or hide the slot30when a straight track segment12ais not passing through the slot30and/or when the toy vehicle10is in the classic mode.

As seen inFIGS. 4-9, in the preferred embodiment at least one and preferably two spaced-apart positioners52preferably extend downwardly beyond the bottom side26of the main body assembly14. In the preferred embodiment, each positioner52is generally centrally-laterally located on the bottom side26of the main body assembly14with respect to the right and left lateral sides16,18. Each positioner50is preferably rotatable with respect to the bottom side26and is preferably sized and shaped to generally fit between the rails48of both the straight and curved track segments12. Specifically, a diameter of each positioner50is preferably slightly less than a distance between interior surfaces of two spaced-apart rails48of a track segment12, as measured generally perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the track segment12and the rails48. Therefore, each positioner50encourages proper positioning of each track segment12with respect to the toy vehicle10by centering the toy vehicle10over the track segment12. However, it is understood by those skill in the art that the toy vehicle10is not limited to the inclusion of one or more positioners52.

Referring toFIGS. 4-6,8-10and12-14, the toy vehicle10preferably includes a pair of driven wheels28a,28bsupported for rotation from the main body assembly14proximal the opposing right and left lateral sides16,18. The pair of driven wheels28a,28bare preferably sized and shaped to rotate generally adjacent to (i.e., span) or across (i.e., on) the top surface13of the at least one track segment12and propel the toy vehicle10in either the first or second direction. In the embodiment where the pair of driven wheels28a,28b, at least a portion of each wheel28a,28bextends below the main body assembly14and the slot30. Specifically, during operation of the preferred embodiment, the driven wheels28a,28brotate directly on the track support surface, while the rails48of either track segment12pass through a gap located between an interior surface of each driven wheel28a,28band an exterior surface of each positioner52.

Further, the toy vehicle10preferably includes a pair of support wheels40a,40bsupported for rotation from the main body assembly14proximal the opposing right and left lateral sides16,18. The pair of support wheels40a,40bare preferably sized and shaped to rotate adjacent to (i.e., span) or across (i.e., on) the top surface13of the at least one track segment12similar to the pair of driven wheels28a,28b. However, in the preferred embodiment, the support wheels40a,40bfreely rotate and are not driven. Of course, the support wheels40a,40bmay be driven or may be designed to pivot for steering purposes, if such functionality is deemed desirable. In the preferred embodiment, ornamental wheels54(FIGS. 1-10) are located on each lateral side16,18of the main body assembly14proximate the bottom side26thereof. However, it is understood that these ornamental wheels54are not necessary to the functional features of the toy vehicle10described herein and such may be eliminated or modified in size and shape if deemed desirable.

Referring toFIGS. 2,4,8,9and10, a rear end22of the main body assembly14may include a hitch56that extends outwardly therefrom. If provided, the hitch56is preferably sized and shaped to engage a least a portion of a trailing car (not shown) that may be towed by the toy vehicle10when the toy vehicle10is operating in the classic mode.

As seen inFIGS. 1-6and8-11and as described in detail below, the main body assembly14preferably includes an ON/OFF switch or button60, a depressible start button or switch62, and a movable or slidable mode switch or button64. Specifically, in the presently preferred embodiment, sliding or depressing the mode switch64to a first or right position (FIG. 2A) places the toy vehicle10in the magic mode and sliding or depressing the mode switch64to a second or left position (FIG. 3) places the toy vehicle10in the classic mode. In the preferred embodiment, the straight and curved track symbols shown above the mode switch64inFIGS. 2,2A and3are designed to give the user a visual indication of the current operational mode of the toy vehicle10. When the ON/OFF switch60is slid or depressed to the ON position (FIG. 2), the batteries are preferably operatively connected to a motor38(FIGS. 11-14) of the toy vehicle10. Finally, when the start button62is depressed, a switch (not shown) within the toy vehicle10is preferably closed and the toy vehicle10beings to move or travel, preferably for a predetermined period of time. Once the predetermined time has elapsed, the switch is preferably opened, such that power is no longer supplied to the toy vehicle10and movement of the toy vehicle10ceases.

In the preferred embodiment, the toy vehicle10includes means for lifting the at least one track segment12from a level below the main body assembly14up and into the slot30and moving the at least one track segment12entirely through the main body assembly14along the slot30from the one end20,22of the toy vehicle10to the other end22,20of the toy vehicle10. Preferably, the means for lifting and moving that at least one track segment12generally includes at least one rotating or reciprocating member or track segment propulsion element, preferably a roller or spindle32(seeFIGS. 6-9), positioned within the slot30and at least one movable arm or lever34(seeFIGS. 4,8,9and12-14), as described in detail below. As described in detail below, the arm34is preferably coupled with the at least one roller32for selective operation of the arm34with the roller32. Further, the pair of driven wheels28a,29b, the arm34and the at least one roller32are operatively coupled together for simultaneous operation.

Referring toFIGS. 6-9, the toy vehicle10preferably includes the at least one roller32located within the main body assembly14and extending axially in a direction generally between the lateral sides16,18thereof. In the preferred embodiment, the at least one roller32is generally cylindrical in shape and extends generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the slot30entirely across the slot30proximate and/or within the bottom surface30dof the slot30. As described in detail below, the roller32is preferably operatively connected to the motor38and is rotated in a clockwise direction, when viewing the toy vehicle10from the right lateral side16thereof, by the motor38. In operation, the roller32is capable of propelling the entire at least one straight track segment12acompletely through the slot30. Further, the at least one roller32is preferably includes a gripping member66(FIGS. 7 and 8) that surrounds at least a portion of the at least one roller32. The gripping member66provides increased friction between the at least one straight track segment12aand the at least one roller32. However, the toy vehicle10is not limited to the roller32or the inclusion of the gripping member66.

In the preferred embodiment, at least two spaced-apart rollers32are located within the main body assembly14and are each operatively connected to the motor38to rotate. Each roller32extends axially in a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the slot30and generally between the lateral sides16,18of the main body assembly14. Specifically, a first or front roller32ais preferably located proximate the front end20of the main body assembly14and a second or rear roller32bis proximate the rear end22of the main body assembly14. The combination of two rollers32a,32bwithin the slot30and/or main body assembly14generally improves the speed and/or efficiency of moving at least one straight track segment12athrough the slot30. However, it is understood that the toy vehicle10is not limited to the inclusion of one or more rollers32, as a variety of rotating or reciprocating mechanisms may be employed, including but not limited to conveyor belt(s), reciprocating rack(s) or pawl(s), opposed sidewall wheels, rollers, or the like (none shown), to propel the at least one track segment12through the slot30. For example, a conveyor belt may extend generally the entire length of the slot30from the rear end22to the front end20of the toy vehicle10to propel the at least one straight track segment12awith respect to the toy vehicle10.

Referring toFIGS. 4,8,9and12-14, the toy vehicle10preferably includes the arm34that is movably supported from the main assembly14. The arm34is essentially movable by a rack and rocker combination, as described in detail below. In the preferred embodiment, the arm34is generally arcuate in shape (when viewed from the side) and generally is formed of an inner portion170that is preferably movable a predetermined and preferably slight distance with respect to an outer portion172. The inner portion170preferably rests in a groove or channel (seeFIGS. 8 and 9) defined by interior surfaces of the outer portion172. Specifically, as shown inFIG. 13, a pin or screw174generally extends upwardly from a lateral mid-point of the outer portion172and preferably fits within at least one slot or groove176of the inner portion170to limit the range of motion of the inner portion170with respect to the outer portion172. Further, the inner portion170preferably includes a generally flat or planar end face74(FIGS. 4,8and9). The end face74of the arm34preferably includes a magnet36therein or thereon for engaging at least a portion of the magnet42of the at least one track segment12.

The arm34, which is preferably spring-biased, but could be gravity-biased, to a first or lowered position (FIG. 9), is preferably operatively connected to the mode switch64. Thus, movement of the mode switch64preferably moves or pivots the arm34between the lowered position (FIGS. 9 and 12) and an opposite or raised position (FIGS. 8 and 13). In the lowered position (FIGS. 9 and 12) (i.e., magic mode), the arm32is capable of engaging at least a portion, such as end44a,46a, of the at least one track segment12proximal one end20,22of the toy vehicle10and lifting the portion of the at least one track segment12into the slot30and into operative engagement with the at least one roller32or other track segment propulsion element. Specifically, in the lowered position (FIG. 9), the magnet36of the arm32can magnetically engage the magnet42of the at least one track segment12. In the raised position (FIGS. 8 and 13) (i.e., classic mode), the magnet36of the arm34avoids engagement with the magnet42of the at least one track segment12. In the preferred embodiment, the arm34is located proximate the rear end22of the main body assembly14, but it is understood by those skilled in the art that the arm34may be located at the front end20of the main body assembly14and the corresponding structure may be flipped or reversed as described herein, if the toy vehicle10is designed to move in the second or reverse direction.

Specifically, as seen inFIG. 10, the mode switch64is preferably pivotable about a generally horizontally-extending pin76that extends through at least a portion of the right half68of the main body assembly14. An extension or portion (not shown) of an upper half78of the mode switch64is slidable in a generally arcuate groove80having endpoints defined by two spaced-apart fasteners82. Opposing endpoints of the groove80define the range of motion of the mode switch64. A portion of a lower half84of the mode switch64engages a projection88(FIG. 11) of a carrier or harness86(FIGS. 4,9and11-14), which generally surrounds and supports an upper portion of the arm34. A rear end of the carrier86is preferably rotatably mounted to a portion of the main body assembly14proximate the rear end22thereof. A biasing member96(FIGS. 12-14), such as a spring, preferably biases the carrier86to a lower position, which, in turn allows the arm86to move to or rest in the lowered position (FIG. 9).

When the mode switch64is in the classic mode (FIGS. 3 and 10), the mode switch64raises a front end of the carrier86, which in turn raises the arm34away from the bottom side26of the main body assembly14(seeFIG. 8). However, when the mode switch64is in the magic mode (FIGS. 2 and 2A), the lower half84of the mode switch64is moved towards the bottom side26of the main body assembly14and lowers the front end of the carrier86and the arm34such that both move toward the bottom side26of the main body assembly14(seeFIG. 9). When the arm34is in the lowered position, the magnet36of the arm34is sufficiently close to the track support surface to generate a sufficiently strong attractive force when the magnet42of the at least one track segment12is in the vicinity thereof to magnetically secure the track segment12to the arm34. The attractive force is capable of pulling and/or moving at least an end portion of the at least one track segment12up and off of the track support surface and toward the bottom side26of the main body assembly14and into the slot30.

Referring toFIGS. 12-14, interior ends of the arm34are preferably pivotably attached to each of two slidable members or plates92,94that are supported within the main body assembly14above the top surface13aof the slot30. Specifically, the toy vehicle10preferably includes a rack plate92and a slide plate94atop the rack plate92, each of which is movable or slidable in a direction generally parallel with the longitudinal axis of the toy vehicle10and is movably or slidable with respect to each other and with respect to the main body assembly14. The interior end of the inner portion170of the arm34is preferably directly pivotally attached a rear end portion of the slide plate94by a generally horizontally-extending pin or shaft178(FIGS. 12-14). Likewise, the interior end of the outer portion172of the arm34is preferably directly pivotally attached to a rear end portion of the rack plate92by a generally horizontally-extending pin or shaft180(FIGS. 11-14). The pivot (shaft180) of the outer portion172of the arm34is displaced from the pivot (shaft178) of the inner portion170of the arm34, preferably above and behind the pivot (shaft178) of the inner portion170of the arm34(when viewing the toy vehicle10from the side), so that the inner portion172of the arm34can slide down the groove or channel defined by the outer portion172of the arm34and consequently move the slide plate94rearward on the rack plate92, as described below.

A bottom surface of the rack plate92is preferably in facing slide engagement with a generally flat and smooth surface of the main body assembly14directly above the top surface30aof the slot30. A bottom surface of the slide plate94is preferably in facing slide engagement with a portion of a top surface of the rack plate92. As seen inFIGS. 12 and 14, a biasing member98, such as a coil spring, preferably directly attaches a portion of the slide plate94to the rack plate92and biases the slide plate94toward a front end of the rack plate92. Further, at least one screw102preferably extends upwardly from the top surface of the rack plate92and preferably extends through at least one slot or groove104of the slide plate94to secure the plates92,94together and to limit the range of motion of the slide plate94with respect to the rack plate92. However, as seen inFIG. 14, in the preferred embodiment two spaced apart pins102are received in two spaced-apart grooves104of the slide plate94to assure the plates92,94remaining operably parallel. As seen inFIG. 14, the top surface of the rack plate92preferably includes a generally linear rack segment100proximate the left lateral side18of the main body assembly14.

Referring toFIGS. 11-14, the motor38is preferably supported from the main body assembly14and is operatively coupled with at least one of the pair of wheels28a,28b,40a,40b, the at least one roller32, and the arm34. In the preferred embodiment, the motor38rotates at least one of the pair of wheels28a,28b,40a,40bto propel the toy vehicle10in a forward direction over the at least one track segment12. Further, the motor38preferably rotates the at least one roller32to propel the at least one track segment12through the main body assembly14along the slot30. In addition, the motor38selectively causes the arm34to move toward the front end20of the main body assembly14. In the preferred embodiment, the motor38is mounted above the slot30and is generally centrally located within the toy vehicle10along the longitudinal axis thereof.

In the preferred embodiment, to effectuate rotation of the driven wheels28a,28b, the rollers32and the arm34, the toy vehicle10preferably includes a gear reduction system72(portions shown inFIGS. 11 and 14), which reduces the speed and increases the torque at which the motor38rotates the driven wheels28a,28b, the rollers32and the arm34. Specifically, as seen inFIG. 14, a drive shaft38aof the motor38, which preferably extends toward the left lateral side18of the main body assembly14, preferably rotatively engages a first pulley106. A belt108surrounds both the first pulley106and a second pulley110spaced therefrom. The second pulley110, which preferably has a larger diameter than the first pulley106, is fixedly attached to a second belt shaft112that extends generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor38defined by the drive shaft38aand is spaced therefrom preferably toward the front end20of the main body assembly14.

As seen inFIG. 11, an end of the second belt shaft112opposite the second pulley110preferably includes a pinion114proximate the right lateral side16of the main body assembly14. The pinion114preferably rotatively engages a first drive gear116. A smaller spur116bof the first drive gear116is rotatively fixed thereto. The smaller spur116bpreferably rotatively engages a second drive gear118located generally below the smaller spur116b. A first or front end side of the second drive gear118rotatively engages a first roller gear120, which, in turn, rotatively engages a second roller gear122. The second roller gear122is fixedly engaged with the front roller32aby a shaft124. Thus, rotation of the second roller gear122in a clockwise direction (when viewing the toy vehicle10from the right side—FIG. 11) rotates the front roller32ain a clockwise direction (when viewing the toy vehicle10from the right side—FIG. 11).

Referring again toFIG. 11, a second or rear end side of the second drive gear118preferably rotatively engages a third drive gear126, which, in turn, preferably rotatively engages a fourth drive gear128. The fourth drive gear128preferably rotatively engages a third roller gear130, which, in turn, preferably rotatively engages a fourth roller gear132. The fourth roller gear132is fixedly engaged to the rear roller32bby a shaft134. Thus, rotation of the fourth roller gear132in a clockwise direction (when viewing the toy vehicle10from the right side—FIG. 11) rotates the rear roller32bin a clockwise direction (when viewing the toy vehicle10from the right side—FIG. 11).

Further, the fourth drive gear128preferably includes a smaller spur128brotatively fixed thereto. The smaller spur128bpreferably rotatively engages a first wheel gear136, which includes a smaller spur136brotatively fixed thereto. A first or lower surface of the smaller spur128bpreferably rotatively engages a second wheel gear138. The second wheel gear138is preferably fixed to a wheel shaft140that extends lateral across the main body assembly14. In the preferred embodiment, each driven wheel28a,28bis fixedly attached to the wheel shaft140, such that rotation of the wheel shaft140in a clockwise direction (when viewing the toy vehicle10from the right side—FIG. 11) by the second wheel gear138rotates each of the driven wheels28a,28bin a clockwise direction (when viewing the toy vehicle10from the right side—FIG. 11), thus providing a means to propel the toy vehicle10. It is preferred that at least some of the above-identified gears of the gear reduction system72that are proximate the right lateral side16of the main body assembly14are generally surrounded by a perimeter wall184that extends generally perpendicular to the right lateral side16. Preferably, a face plate182removably engages at least a portion of the perimeter wall184, such as by one or more screws (none shown), to generally enclose and/or protect certain gears of the gear reduction system72.

Furthermore, a second or upper surface of the smaller spur128bof the fourth drive gear128preferably rotatively engages a first arm gear141. The first arm gear141preferably rotatively engages a second arm gear142, which is fixedly engaged with a shaft144(seeFIGS. 11-14). The shaft144preferably extends generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the motor38defined by the drive shaft38aand is spaced therefrom. The shaft144preferably extends toward the left lateral side18of the main body assembly14. It is understood by those skilled in the art that the toy vehicle10is not limited to the specific arrangement of the gear reduction system72, as described above. For example, the motor38may be positioned in a variety of orientations and/or locations within the toy vehicle10. Further, the gear reduction system72may include more or fewer gears arranged in any one of a plurality of configurations depending, in part, on the speed of rotation of the motor38.

Referring now toFIGS. 12 and 13, it is preferred that a cover plate146surrounds and/or covers at least a portion of the rack plate92, the first pulley106, the belt108and the second belt pulley110. The cover plate146is preferably fixedly attached to a portion of the left lateral side18of the main body assembly14. A first or front end of a biasing member148, such as a tension coil spring, preferably surrounds a projection or hook150(FIGS. 12-14) that extends outwardly from a front end of the rack plate92. The projection150preferably extends through an elongated slot152(FIG. 12) of the cover plate146. An opposite second or rear end of the biasing member148preferably surrounds or otherwise engages a pin or screw154on the cover plate146. Thus, in operation, the biasing member148urges the rack plate92toward the rear end22of the main body assembly14.

Referring toFIGS. 12-14, an end of the shaft144of the second arm gear142proximate the left lateral side18of the main body assembly14is preferably fixedly attached to a third arm gear156. The third arm gear156preferably rotatively engages a pinion gear158(FIGS. 14-14B), which is sized, shaped and located to selectively engage the rack segment100of the rack plate92, as described in detail below. The pinion gear158is rotatably supported by a housing159, which is itself rotatably attached to the shaft144of the second arm gear142. As seen inFIGS. 12-14B, a positioning member166is also rotatably attached to the shaft144so as to partially surround and/or cover the housing159. A tube or shaft160preferably surrounds a portion of the shaft144not covered by the positioning member166and/or housing159. A biasing member164(FIGS. 12-14B), such as a torsion spring, preferably surrounds a portion of the shaft144and preferably rotatably aligns the housing159and the positioning member166. Specifically, torsion spring164is preferably made of spring wire bent to form a closed loop at one end fitted over shaft144and two arms formed by the free ends of the wire extending away from opposite sides of the closed loop generally parallel to one another. The two wire ends of the biasing member164extend between the housing159and positioning member166around overlapping tongues extending from each.

The normal counter clockwise rotation of shaft144and third arm gear156creates a drag torque which rotates the positioning member166, housing159and pinion gear158downwardly in a counter-clockwise direction about shaft144when viewing the toy vehicle from the left side (FIG. 14). Further, a pin162(FIG. 14) preferably extends from a side of the housing159generally opposite to, but radially displaced from, the third arm gear156and pinion gear158. In operation, when the arm34is in the raised position (FIG. 8) or when in the lowered position (FIG. 9) and the magnet36of the arm34is a sufficient distance away from the magnet42of the at least one straight track segment12asuch that no attractive force (or only a negligible attractive force) exists between the two magnets36,42, the slide plate94is biased forward on the rack plate92such that an end of the pin162of the housing159generally opposite the pinion gear158rests on the slide plate94. More particularly, pin162rests on the top surface of a ledge or shelf163(FIGS. 12,14and14B) preferably extending outwardly from a left side of the slide plate94and above and laterally overlapping at least a portion of the right side of the rack plate92. When the arm34is in the lowered position (FIG. 9) and the magnet36of the arm34is within a sufficient distance to the magnet42of the at least one straight track segment12asuch that a sufficient and predetermined attractive force exists between the two magnets36,42, the arm34and specifically at least the inner portion170of the arm34is pulled slightly in a direction away from the front end20of the main body assembly14by the inertia of the at least one straight track segment12a. The preferably slight rearward movement of the inner portion170of the arm34with respect to the outer portion172and the main body assembly14moves the slide plate94, and thus the ledge163slightly rearward with respect to the rack plate92and the main body assembly14. Rearward movement of the ledge163allows the pin162to pass over a front end of the ledge163, and drop into a horizontal slot defined by the ledge163and underlying edge of rack plate92(seeFIG. 14A, for example). This, in turn, causes the pinion gear158to drop or move downwardly until it engages the rack segment100of the rack plate92.

Once the pinion gear158engages the rack segment100, rotation of the pinion gear158causes the rack segment100, and thus the rack plate92to move toward the front end20of the main body assembly14(direction of unnumbered arrow inFIG. 14A). Movement of the rack plate92causes the slide plate94, and thus the ledge163to move toward the front end20of the main body assembly14. In this configuration, at least an outer end of the pin162passes beneath the ledge163, which thereby maintains constant engagement between the pinion gear158and the rack segment100. Further, movement of the rack plate92and the slide plate94preferably causes the arm34, which is temporarily attached to the at least one straight track segment12a, to move toward the front end20of the main body assembly14. The front end44aof the at least one straight track segment12ais preferably moved sufficiently forward with respect to the main body assembly14such that a bottom surface15of the at least one track straight segment12aengages the provided mean for moving, i.e., at least a top portion of the rear roller32bin this embodiment, causing the at least one straight track segment12ato begin to pass through the slot30. As the front end44aof the at least one straight track segment12areaches the front roller32a, the front roller32afeeds/propels the track segment12aforward and out of the toy vehicle10through the front end of the slot30(FIG. 6).

A length of the ledge163, as measured along the longitudinal axis of the toy vehicle10, is preferably less than that of the rack segment100. Therefore, when the pinion gear158reaches or approaches a rear end of the rack segment100, the end of the pin162passes a rear end of the ledge163. Thus, in this configuration, the ledge163no longer maintains contact between the pinion gear158and the rack segment100. Further, a rear end166a(FIGS. 12-14) of the positioning member166preferably contacts an upwardly extending section168of the rack plate64and/or any other structure in the vicinity thereof, causing the positioning member166to bias through bias member164, the housing169and thus the pin162and the pinion gear158in a clockwise direction about shaft144, upwardly and out of contact with the rack segment100. Once the pinion gear158no longer engages the rack segment100and the pin162is free from the downward constraint of the ledge163, the biasing member148of the cover plate146urges the rack plate92, and thus the slide plate94and the arm34back toward the rear end22of the main body assembly14(direction of unnumbered arrow inFIG. 14B) to a position to repeat the above cycle. In operation, the toy vehicle10is capable of consecutively relocating two straight track segments12asuch that the toy vehicle10appears to be riding on one of the straight track segments12aat all times.

Preferably, the toy vehicle10is configured to operate with at least a pair of track segments12, lifting a first track segment12that has been passed over, passing the first track segment12through the toy vehicle10and depositing the first track segment12at the front end of a second track segment12, over which the toy vehicle10is passing, preferably with facing male and female connectors45,47engaging one another, and repeating the process with the second segment12. However, it is understood by those skilled in the art that the toy vehicle10may include only a single roller32, as described above, or more than two rollers32, or other rotating or reciprocating elements, to propel the at least one straight track segment12athrough the slot30. It should be further understood that the one or more rollers32may have a friction generating surface to frictionally engage the track segment(s)12or a toothed surface (i.e., a spur gear) to engage a rack of teeth provided along the bottom surface15of the track segment12(none depicted). It should also be appreciated that two or more rollers32may drivingly support a conveyor that can engage the track segment(s)12frictionally, mechanically (e.g., by teeth) and/or magnetically to move the track segment(s)12through the slot30. Again, these are but a few of the means possible for moving a track segment12entirely through the main body assembly14along the slot30.

A method of operating the toy vehicle10preferably includes propelling the toy vehicle10over at least one track segment12, picking up the at least one track segment12at one end20,22of the toy vehicle10, passing the at least one track segment12longitudinally through the toy vehicle10, and relaying the at least one track segment12at an opposite end22,20of the toy vehicle10. More specifically, a method of operating the toy vehicle10preferably includes propelling the toy vehicle10in a first direction over the at least one track segment12, moving the arm34to engage at least a portion (e.g., end44a,46a) of the at least one track segment12, moving the combined arm32and at least one track segment12toward one end20,22of the toy vehicle10, raising at least the portion of the at least one track segment12onto at least a portion of the at least one roller32, propelling the at least one track segment12from the one end20,22of the main body assembly14to and out of another end20,22of the main body assembly14, and propelling the toy vehicle10over the at least one track segment12.