Patent Publication Number: US-8986068-B2

Title: Toy vehicle track play set

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to U.S. Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 12/575,089, entitled “Toy Vehicle Track Playset” and filed Oct. 7, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,066,545, as well as Nonprovisional application Ser. No. 13/280,515, entitled “Toy Vehicle Track Playset” and filed Oct. 25, 2011, the disclosures of both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a play set, in particular a vehicle track play set, including a base, a support member extending upwardly from the base and defining several openings, and a track coupled to the support member. The track has a spiral configuration and extends through the openings. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Various play sets including a track along which unpowered toy vehicles move are known. Some conventional play sets include a track disposed along a single horizontal plane. Other conventional play sets include a track that includes a vertical displacement as well as a horizontal displacement. Such conventional track play sets have long been a source of entertainment for children. 
     There is a need for a vehicle track play set having different features and a unique track configuration, thereby enhancing a child&#39;s enjoyment and play experience. Further, there is a need for a unique and different vehicle track play set suitable for very small children. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a vehicle track play set including a base, a substantially planar support member extending upwardly from the base, and a track. The support member has a first end connected to the base and an opposite distal second end. The support member defines a plurality of openings extending therethrough. The track has a first end portion coupled to the support member and an opposite second end portion. The track has a spiral configuration and extends through the plurality of openings from the first end portion of the track to the second end portion of the track. 
     In one embodiment, the track extends outwardly from opposing sides of the support member. The track may remain within a footprint defined by the base as the track extends from its first end portion to its second end portion. 
     In one embodiment, the track is a first track and the plurality of openings is a first plurality of openings. The vehicle track play set further includes a second track having a first end portion coupled to the support member and an opposite second end portion. The second track has a spiral configuration and extends through a second plurality of openings defined by the support member. 
     In one embodiment, the base includes a first portion and a second portion spaced from the first portion. The first track is coupled to the first portion of the base, and the second track is coupled to the second portion of the base. In one embodiment, the first end portion of the first track extends outwardly from a first side of the support member, and the first end portion of the second track extends outwardly from an opposite second side of the support member. 
     The present invention also relates to a vehicle track play set including a base, a plate having a first end coupled to the base and an opposite second end, a first track extending along the plate toward the base, and a second track extending along the plate toward the base. The plate includes opposing first and second surfaces. The first track includes a first curved portion extending outwardly from the first surface and a second curved portion extending outwardly from the second surface. The first track extends through at least a first opening in the plate between the first curved portion and the second curved portion. The second track includes a third curved portion extending outwardly from the second surface and a fourth curved portion extending outwardly from the first surface. The second track extends through at least a second opening in the plate between the third curved portion and the fourth curved portion. 
     In one embodiment, the first opening in the plate includes a first plurality of openings, and the first track has a spiral configuration and extends through the first plurality of openings. In one embodiment, the second opening in the plate includes a second plurality of openings, and the second track has a spiral configuration and extends through the second plurality of openings. In one embodiment, the first opening in the plate includes a first quantity of openings, and the second opening in the plate includes a second quantity of openings, the first quantity differing from the second quantity. 
     In one embodiment, the first track is coupled to a first exit ramp extending from a first side of the base, and the second track is coupled to a second exit ramp extending from a second side of the base opposite the first side. In one embodiment, the base includes a first portion and a second portion spaced from the first portion, the first track being coupled to the first portion of the base, and the second track being coupled to the second portion of the base. 
     In one embodiment, the first curved portion of the first track extends outwardly from the first surface of the plate by a first distance. The second curved portion of the first track extends outwardly from the second surface of the plate by a second distance, the second distance being substantially equal to the first distance. 
     The present invention also relates to a vehicle track play set including a base, a support extending upwardly from the base, and first and second tracks. The support has a first end connected to the base and an opposite distal second end. The support defines a first plurality of openings and a second plurality of openings. The first track has a first end portion connected to the support and a second opposite end portion. The first track has a spiral configuration and extends through the first plurality of openings of the support between the end portions of the first track. The second track has a first end portion connected to the support and a second opposite end portion. The second track has a spiral configuration and extends through the second plurality of openings of the support between the end portions of the second track. 
     In one embodiment, the support includes a first side and a second side extending between the ends of the support. The first end portion of the first track extends outwardly from the first side of the support. The first end portion of the second track extends outwardly from the second side of the support. 
     In one embodiment, the second end portion of the first track is located proximate to a first side of the base, and the second end portion of the second track is located proximate to a second side of the base opposite to the first side. In one embodiment, the base includes a first portion and a second portion spaced from the first portion. The second end portion of the first track is coupled to the first portion of the base, and the second end portion of the second track is coupled to the second portion of the base. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a side view schematic diagram of a vehicle track play set according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a side view schematic diagram of a vehicle track play set according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates another side view schematic diagram of the play set of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a side view schematic diagram of a vehicle track play set according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates another side view schematic diagram of the play set of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates another side view schematic diagram of the play set of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a front view of a vehicle track play set according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a side view of the play set of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary toy vehicle for use with the play set of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a bottom view of the toy vehicle of  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a perspective view of a support of the play set of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a perspective view of a base and a portion of the support and tracks of the play set of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a perspective view of an upper portion of the support and tracks of the play set of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a perspective assembly view of the support and portions of the tracks of the play set of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the base of the play set of  FIG. 7 ; and 
         FIG. 16  illustrates a perspective view of a vehicle track play set according to an alternative embodiment. 
     
    
    
     Like reference numerals have been used to identify like elements throughout this disclosure. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     It is to be understood that terms such as “left,” “right,” “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “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. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a schematic diagram of a vehicle track play set S1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Play set S1 includes a base  10  and a substantially planar support member  30  extending upwardly from the base  10 . The support member  30  has a lower end  32  connected to the base  10 , an opposite distal upper end  34 , and opposing sides  36 ,  38 . In one embodiment, the lower end  32  can be coupled to an upper surface  12  of the base  10 . The support member  30  defines several openings  40   a ,  40   b ,  40   c  (shown in phantom) extending therethrough. 
     A track  50  includes an end portion  52  coupled to the support member  30  and an opposite end portion  54 . In one embodiment, the end portion  52  of the track  50  is located proximate to the upper end  34  of the support member  30 , and the opposite end portion  54  of the track  50  is located proximate to the lower end  32  of the support member  30 . The track  50  may have a generally spiral configuration and extends through the openings  40   a ,  40   b ,  40   c  in the support member  30  from end portion  52  of the track  50  to end portion  54  of the track  50 . 
     The track  50  extends outwardly from the opposing sides  36 ,  38  of the support member  30 . In some embodiments, the track  50  remains within a footprint defined by the base  10  as the track  50  extends from end portion  52  to opposite end portion  54 . The play set S1 is relatively stable and not easily tipped over from an upright position P1 with an underside  14  of the base  10  disposed on a support surface S. Thus, the base  10  and/or the support member  30  has a size and weight sufficient to stabilize and maintain the play set S1 in its upright position P1. In other embodiments, the track  50  extends outwardly from the opposing sides  36 ,  38  of the support member  30  and beyond the footprint defined by the base  10 . The base  10  and/or support member  30  are sufficiently weighted to ensure that the base  10  is stable and easily maintained in the upright position P1 on the support surface S. 
     The track  50  is configured for receiving toy vehicles (such as toy vehicles  700  described below). In one embodiment, the downward slope of the track  50  is sufficient to allow non-powered wheeled vehicles to proceed from its upper end portion  52  to its lower end portion  54  via gravity. In other embodiments, the play set S1 includes powered vehicles which are received on and move along the track  50 . The track  50  includes side portions that maintain a toy vehicle on the track  50 . 
       FIGS. 2 and 3  illustrate schematic diagrams of a vehicle track play set S2 according to another embodiment. Referring first to  FIG. 2 , play set S2 includes a base  100  and a plate  130  extending upwardly from an upper surface  102  of the base  100 . The plate  130  includes a lower end  132  coupled to the base  100 , an opposite upper end  134 , and opposing surfaces  136 ,  138 , respectively. In some embodiments, the lower end  132  of the plate  130  is directly connected to the upper surface  102  of the base  100 . In other embodiments, an additional connecting component couples the lower end  132  of the plate  130  to the upper surface  102  of the base  100 . 
     A first track  150  extends along the plate  130  toward the base  100 . The first track  150  includes a curved portion  152  extending outwardly from surface  136  of the plate  130 , and another curved portion  154  extending outwardly from surface  138  of the plate  130 . The first track  150  extends through at least one opening  140   a  defined by the plate  130  between curved portion  152  and curved portion  154 . 
     A second track  170  extends along the plate  130  toward the base  100 . The second track  170  includes a curved portion  172  extending outwardly from surface  138  of the plate  130  and another curved portion  174  extending outwardly from the opposing surface  136  of the plate  130 . The second track  170  extends through at least one other opening  140   b  defined by the plate  130  between curved portion  172  and curved portion  174 . 
     In one embodiment, the first track  150  remains within a footprint defined by the base  100  as the first track  150  extends from its curved portion  152  to its curved portion  154 . Similarly, the second track  170  remains within the footprint of the base  100  as the second track  170  extends from its curved portion  172  to its curved portion  174 . The play set S2 is relatively stable and not easily tipped over from an upright position P2 with an underside  104  of the base  100  disposed on the support surface S. 
     In other embodiments the first track  150  and/or the second track  170  extend outwardly from surface  136  and/or surface  138  of the plate  130  and beyond the footprint of the base  100 . The base  100  and/or the plate  130  should be sufficiently configured and weighted to ensure that the play set S2 is relatively stable and easily maintained in the upright position P2 on the support surface S, even if the base  100 , the plate  130 , and/or the first or the second tracks  150 ,  170  are bumped or pushed, such as during play. 
     In one embodiment, each of the first and second tracks  150 ,  170  has a generally S-shaped configuration, spiraling from the upper end  134  of the plate  130  toward the lower end  132  of the plate  130 . Referring to  FIG. 3 , the curved portion  152  of the first track  150  extends outwardly from surface  136  of the plate  130  by a first distance d1, and the curved portion  154  of the first track  150  extends outwardly from the opposing surface  138  of the plate  130  by a second distance d2. In one embodiment, the first distance d1 is substantially equal to the second distance d2, thereby giving the play set S2 a symmetrical appearance. In other embodiments, the first distance d1 differs from the second distance d2. By varying the distances d1 and d2, the appearance of the play set S2 as well as the movement of the toy vehicles on the track  150  can vary. 
     Similarly, the curved portion  172  of the second track  170  extends outwardly from surface  138  of the plate  130  by a third distance d3, and the curved portion  174  of the second track  170  extends outwardly from the opposing surface  136  of the plate  130  by a fourth distance d4. In one embodiment, the third distance d3 is substantially equal to the fourth distance d4, thereby giving the play set S2 a symmetrical appearance. In other embodiments, the third distance d3 differs from the fourth distance d4. By varying the distances d3 and d4, the appearance of the play set S2 as well as the movement of the toy vehicles on the track  150  can vary. 
     In one embodiment, the first and third distances d1, d3 are substantially equal, and the second and fourth distances d2, d4 are substantially equal. Thus, the curved portions  152 ,  174  extending outwardly from surface  136  are generally symmetrical with the curved portions  172 ,  154  extending outwardly from the opposing surface  138 , relative to a longitudinal axis A1 of the plate  130 . The resulting configuration of the play set S2 is relatively stable and not easily tipped from its upright position P2. 
     The play set S2 may include or be used with one or more toy vehicles (such as toy vehicles  700  described below). In one embodiment, the first and second tracks  150 ,  170  are configured for receiving single-wheeled toy vehicles suitable for use by toddlers and young children. The downward slopes of the first and second tracks  150 ,  170  are sufficient to allow non-powered wheeled vehicles to proceed down the tracks  150 ,  170  via gravity. In one embodiment, each of the tracks  150 ,  170  has side edges that are configured to prevent the toy vehicles from falling off of the track. 
     The multi-track spiraling configuration of play set S2 provides an appealing appearance and unique play experience for children. Toy vehicles may proceed down the first and second tracks  150 ,  170  simultaneously toward the base  100 . Play set S2 may further include sensory output, such as lights, sound effects and/or music, which is triggered via switches or push buttons on the base  100  and/or the plate  130 . Alternatively or in addition, one or more switches may be provided on or adjacent the first track  150  and/or the second track  170 , which are triggered as a toy vehicle passes and cause activation of lights, sound effects, or other sensory output. 
       FIGS. 4 ,  5  and  6  illustrate schematic diagrams of a vehicle track play set S3 according to another embodiment. Referring first to  FIG. 4 , play set S3 includes a base  200  and a support  230  extending upwardly from the base  200 . The base  200  includes an upper side  202  and an underside  204  configured for resting on a support surface S, and opposing end portions  206 ,  208 . The support  230  has a lower end  232  coupled to the upper side  202  of the base  200 , an opposite distal upper end  234 , and opposing sides  236 ,  238  extending between the lower and upper ends  232 ,  234  of the support  230 . The support  230  defines several openings  240   a ,  240   b ,  240   c ,  242   a ,  242   b , and  242 . 
     The support  230  is illustrated as defining openings  240   a - c , which include three openings associated with a track  250 , and openings  242   a - c  including three openings associated with a track  270 . However, the support  230  may be configured to define a different quantity of three openings for track  250 , and a different quantity of openings for track  270 . In some embodiments, the quantity of openings for track  250  is equal to the quantity of openings for track  270 . In other embodiments, the quantity of openings for track  250  is different than the quantity of openings for track  270 . 
     A first track  250  has an end portion  252  connected to the support  230 , and another opposite end portion  254 . In one embodiment, the first track  250  has a generally spiral configuration and extends through openings  240   a ,  240   b ,  240   c  in the support  230  between the end portions  252 ,  254  of the first track  250 . A second track  270  has an end portion  272  connected to the support  230 , and another opposite end portion  274 . In one embodiment, the second track  270  has a generally spiral configuration and extends through openings  242   a ,  242   b ,  242   c  of the support  230  between the end portions  272 ,  274  of the second track  270 . 
     In one embodiment, the end portion  252  of the first track  250  is connected to the support  230  proximate to the upper end  234  of the support  230 , and extends outwardly from one side  236  of the support  230 . The opposite end portion  254  of the first track  250  is located proximate to end portion  206  of the base  200 . In different implementations, end portion  254  may extend beyond the base  200 . 
     Similarly, the end portion  272  of the second track  270  is connected to the support  230  proximate the upper end  234  thereof, and extends outwardly from the opposing side  238  of the support  230 . The opposite end portion  274  of the second track  270  is located proximate to the opposing end portion  208  of the base  200 . In different implementations, end portion  274  may extend beyond the base  200 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , the first track  250  is defined by several track segments or curved portions that are coupled to the support  230 . The first track  250  includes an upper curved portion  256 , an intermediate curved portion  258 , and a lower curved portion  260 . The upper curved portion  256  includes an end  256   a  connected to the support  230 , and an opposite end  256   b  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  240   a . The upper curved portion  256  extends outwardly from side  236  of the support  230 . The intermediate curved portion  258  includes an end  258   a  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  240   a , and an opposite end  258   b  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  240   b . The intermediate curved portion  258  extends outwardly from the opposing side  238  of the support  230 . The lower curved portion  260  includes an end  260   a  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  240   b , and an opposite end  260   b  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  240   c . The lower curved portion  260  extends outwardly from side  236  of the support  230 . 
     Similarly, the second track  270  includes an upper curved portion  276 , an intermediate curved portion  278 , and a lower curved portion  280 . The upper curved portion  276  includes an end  276   a  connected to the support  230 , and an opposite end  276   b  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  242   a . The upper curved portion  276  extends outwardly from side  238  of the support  230 . The intermediate curved portion  278  includes an end  278   a  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  242   a , and an opposite end  278   b  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  242   b . The intermediate curved portion  278  extends outwardly from side  236  of the support  230 . The lower curved portion  280  includes an end  280   a  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  242   b , and an opposite end  280   b  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  242   c . The lower curved portion  280  extends outwardly from side  238  of the support  230 . 
     In one embodiment, the first track  250  is coupled to an exit ramp  262 . The exit ramp  262  includes an end  262   a  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  240   c , and an opposite end  262   b  extending outwardly from side  238  of the support  230 . The end  260   b  of the lower curved portion  260  of the first track  250 , which is aligned with opening  240   c , is thereby coupled to the exit ramp  262 . The end  262   b  of the exit ramp  262  is coupled to end portion  206  of the base  200 . 
     Similarly, the second track  270  may be coupled to another exit ramp  282 . The exit ramp  282  includes an end  282   a  connected to the support  230  and aligned with opening  242   c , and an opposite end  282   b  extending outwardly from side  236  of the support  230 . The end  280   b  of the lower curved portion  280  of the second track  270 , which is aligned with opening  242   c , is thereby coupled to the exit ramp  282 . The end  282   b  of the exit ramp  282  is coupled to the opposing end portion  208  of the base  200 . 
     Thus, with respect to the first track  250 , opening  240   a  is between and interconnecting end  256   b  of the upper curved portion  256  and end  258   a  of the intermediate curved portion  258 . Opening  240   b  is between and interconnecting end  258   b  of the intermediate curved portion  258  and end  260   a  of the lower curved portion  260 . Opening  240   c  is between and interconnecting end  260   b  of the lower curved portion  260  and end  262   a  of the exit ramp  262 . 
     With respect to the second track  270 , opening  242   a  is between and interconnecting end  276   b  of the upper curved portion  276  and end  278   a  of the intermediate curved portion  278 . Opening  242   b  is between and interconnecting end  278   b  of the intermediate curved portion  278  and end  280   a  of the lower curved portion  280 . Opening  242   c  is between and interconnecting end  280   b  of the lower curved portion  280  and end  282   a  of the exit ramp  282 . 
     In one embodiment, each of the first and second tracks  250 ,  270  has a generally helical configuration, spiraling from the upper end  234  of the support  230  toward the lower end  232  of the support  230 . Referring to  FIG. 6 , the upper curved portion  256  of the first track  250  extends outwardly from side  236  of the support  230  by a first distance d1′, the intermediate curved portion  258  extends outwardly from the opposing side  238  by a second distance d2′, and the lower curved portion  260  extends outwardly from side  236  by a third distance d3′. In one embodiment, the first, second and third distances d1′, d2′, d3′ are substantially equal. In other embodiments, the first, second and/or third distances d1′, d2′, d3′ differ. 
     Similarly, the upper curved portion  276  of the second track  270  extends outwardly from side  238  of the support  230  by a fourth distance d4′, the intermediate curved portion  278  extends outwardly from the opposing side  236  by a fifth distance d5′, and the lower curved portion  280  extends outwardly from side  238  by a sixth distance d6′. In one embodiment, the fourth, fifth and sixth distances d4′, d5′, d6′ are substantially equal. In other embodiments, the fourth, fifth and/or sixth distances d4′, d5′, d6′ differ. 
     In one embodiment, the first and fourth distances d1′, d4′ are substantially equal, the second and fifth distances d2′, d5′ are substantially equal, and the third and sixth distances d3′, d6′ are substantially equal. Thus, in one embodiment, the first and second tracks  250 ,  270  have a relatively symmetrical configuration relative to a longitudinal axis A2 of the support  230 . The resulting configuration of the play set S3 is stable and not easily tipped from its upright position when the underside  204  of the base  200  is resting on the support surface S. 
     In one embodiment, the first track  250  remains within a footprint defined by the base  200  as the first track  250  extends from its upper curved portion  256  to its lower curved portion  260 . Similarly, the second track  270  remains within the footprint of the base  200  as the second track  270  extends from its upper curved portion  276  to its lower curved portion  280 . Exit ramps  262 ,  282  likewise may remain within the footprint defined by the base  200 . In other embodiments, the first track  250 , the second track  270  and/or one or both of the exit ramps  262 ,  282  may extend outwardly from side  236  and/or side  238  of the support  230  and beyond the footprint of the base  200 . The base  200  and/or the support  230  should be sufficiently configured and weighted to ensure that the play set S3 is relatively stable and easily maintained in its upright position on the support surface S, such as during play. 
     The first and second tracks  250 ,  270  are configured for receiving toy vehicles (such as toy vehicles  700  described below). In one embodiment, the downward slopes of the first and second tracks  250 ,  270  are sufficient to allow non-powered wheeled vehicles to proceed down the tracks  250 ,  270  via gravity. Toy vehicles proceed down the first ramp  250  and are discharged from exit ramp  262  in a first direction D1. Toy vehicles proceed down the second ramp  270  and are discharged from exit ramp  282  in a second direction D2 different from the first direction D1. In one embodiment, the first direction D1 is opposite to the second direction D2. In other embodiments, the first direction D1 is perpendicular to, or angular to, the second direction D2. 
     Play set S3 may include sensory output, such as lights, sound effects and/or music, as described above. Accordingly, play set S3 may include switches and/or buttons for activating the sensory output, which may be triggered by the child and/or by vehicles proceeding along the first and/or the second tracks  250 ,  270 . 
     A vehicle track play set S4 according to another embodiment is illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8 . Play set S4 includes a base  300  and a support  400  extending upwardly from the base  300 . First and second tracks  500 ,  600  are coupled to the support  400 , and extend along the support  400  toward the base  300 . The play set S4 may include one or more toy vehicles configured for engaging and moving along the tracks  500 ,  600 . Accordingly, the first and second tracks  500 ,  600  are configured to accommodate toy vehicles. 
     In one embodiment, the play set S4 includes a single-wheeled toy vehicle  700  having a main body  702  that houses a wheel  704 , as shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10 . The wheel  704  mounted on an axle  705  extends outwardly from an opening  706  disposed in an underside  708  of the main body  702 . The wheel  704  is engagable with the first track  500  and/or the second track  600 , so that the toy vehicle  700  is movable along the first and/or second tracks  500 ,  600 . Thus, the toy vehicle  700  has a relatively limited number of moving components. The size and configuration of the toy vehicle  700  is well suited for use by toddlers and small children. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the base  300  has an upper side  302  and an underside  304  configured for resting on a support surface S, and opposing end portions  306 ,  308 . The support  400  has a lower end portion  402  connected to the base  300 , an opposite distal upper end portion  404 , and opposing sides  406 ,  408  extending between the lower end portion  402  and the upper end portion  404  thereof. 
     Referring to  FIG. 11 , the support  400  defines a first plurality or group of openings  410   a ,  410   b ,  410   c ,  410   d  and a second plurality or group of openings  412   a ,  412   b ,  412   c ,  412   d ,  412   e . Each of the openings  410   a - 410   d  extends through the support  400 . The quantity of openings of the groups as illustrated in the figures is exemplary only. Thus, the support  400  may be configured to define a first group of openings including more or less than four openings, and a second group of openings including more or less than five openings. In some embodiments, the support  400  may define a first group of openings including a first quantity of openings, and a second group of openings including a second quantity of openings equal to the first quantity of openings. In other embodiments, the first quantity of openings differs from the second quantity of openings. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 12 , in one embodiment, the base  300  includes a first portion  310  and a second portion  312  spaced from the first portion  310 . The lower end portion  402  of the support  400  includes a section  414  connected to the first portion  310  of the base  300 , and another section  416  connected to the second portion  312  of the base  300 . The first portion  310  of the base may include an engagement slot  314  configured for receiving section  414  of the lower end portion  402  of the support  400 . The second portion  312  may include engagement slots  316 ,  318  configured for receiving section  416  of the lower end portion  402  of the support  400 . Sections  414 ,  416  of the lower end portion  402  slide into place within the correspondingly configured engagement slots  314 ,  316 ,  318  on the first and second portions  310 ,  312  of the base  300 , respectively, and are retained therein by friction fit, lock tabs, pins, screws, or some other fastening mechanism or means. 
     In an alternative embodiment, the base  300  includes a single unitary component. In other embodiments, the base  300  may include more than two portions. Therefore, the embodiment including a base  300  having two spaced portions is exemplary only. Further, the base  300  and support  400  may be integrally formed as a single component, or multiple components wherein at least one of the components includes a portion of the base and a portion of the support. Thus, various alternative configurations of the components may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , the first track  500  has an end portion  502  connected to the support  400 , and another opposite end portion  504  located near the base  300 . In one embodiment, the end portion  502  is connected to an upper platform  418  defined by or connected to the upper end portion  404  of the support  400  (see also  FIG. 13 ). The upper platform  418  includes opposing sides  420 ,  422 . The end portion  502  of the first track  500  is connected to and extends outwardly from side  420  of the upper platform  418 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , the opposite end portion  504  of the first track  500  may be connected to the first portion  310  of the base  300 . The first track  500  has a generally spiral configuration and extends through openings  401   a - d  of the support  400  between the end portions  502 ,  504  of the first track  500 . 
     The second track  600  has an end portion  602  connected to the support  400 , and another opposite end portion  604  located near the base  300 . In one embodiment, the end portion  602  is connected to the upper platform  418 , and extends outwardly from the opposing side  422  of the platform  418 , as shown in  FIG. 13 . Thus, the end portion  502  of the first track  500  extends outwardly from one side  406  of the support  400 , and the end portion  602  of the second track  600  extends outwardly from the opposing side  408  of the support  400  (as shown in  FIG. 8 ). The opposite end portion  604  of the second track  600  may be connected to the second portion  312  of the base  300 , as shown in  FIG. 7 . The second track  600  has a generally spiral configuration and extends through openings  412   a - e  of the support  400  between the end portions  602 ,  604  of the second track  600 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 14 , the first and second tracks  500 ,  600  may be defined by several track segments or curved portions that are coupled to the support  400 . In one embodiment, the first track  500  includes an upper curved portion  506 , intermediate curved portions  508 ,  510 ,  512 , and a lower curved portion  514 . Similarly, the second track  600  includes an upper curved portion  606 , intermediate curved portions  608 ,  610 ,  612 , and a lower curved portion  614 . 
     In one embodiment, the curved portions  506 - 514  of the first track  500  include retaining clips  516  extending outwardly from opposing ends of each curved portion  506 - 514  of the first track  500 , and the curved portions  606 - 614  of the second track  600  include retaining clips  616  extending outwardly from opposing ends of each curved portion  606 - 614 . The retaining clips  516 ,  616  snap into correspondingly configured and located slots (not shown) provided in the opposing sides  406 ,  408  of the support  400 . 
     A snap-fit connection of the support  400  to the base  300 , and the first and second tracks  500 ,  600  to the support  400 , provide for a relatively quick and easy assembly. The play set S4 is easily assembled by inserting the support  400  into the first and second portions  310 ,  312  of the base  300 , and snapping the curved portions  506 - 514 ,  606 - 614  onto the support  400 . However, other mechanisms may be employed for connecting the support  400  to the base  300 , and/or for connecting the first and second tracks  500 , 600  to the support  400 , such as screws, pins, adhesive, etc. Further, in other embodiments, the first track  500  and/or the second track  600  may have a unitary construction, and the support  400  may be defined by multiple members that are connected to the first and second tracks  500 ,  600 . Thus, the specific construction and arrangement of components defining the play set S4 as illustrated herein is exemplary only. 
     With respect to the first track  500 , the upper curved portion  506  extends outwardly from side  406 , and extends between and interconnects the upper end portion  404  (and/or platform  418  as shown in  FIG. 13 ) of the support  400  and opening  410   a . Intermediate curved portion  508  extends outwardly from the opposing side  408 , and extends between and interconnects opening  410   a  and opening  410   b  of the support  400 . Intermediate curved portion  510  extends outwardly from side  406 , and extends between and interconnects opening  410   b  and opening  410   c  of the support  400 . Intermediate curved portion  512  extends outwardly from the opposing side  408 , and extends between and interconnects opening  410   c  and opening  410   d  of the support  400 . The lower curved portion  514  extends outwardly from side  406 , and extends between and interconnects opening  410   d  and the first portion  310  of the base  300 . 
     Thus, in this embodiment, opening  410   a  is between and interconnecting the curved portion  506  and curved portion  508  of the first track  500 . Opening  410   b  is between and interconnecting curved portion  508  and curved portion  510 . Opening  410   c  is between and interconnecting curved portion  510  and curved portion  512 . Opening  410   d  is between and interconnecting curved portion  512  and curved portion  514 . 
     With respect to the second track  600 , the upper curved portion  606  extends outwardly from side  408 , and extends between and interconnects the upper end portion  404  (and/or platform  418  as shown in  FIG. 13 ) of the support  400  and opening  412   a . Intermediate curved portion  608  extends outwardly from the opposing side  406 , and extends between and interconnects opening  412   a  and opening  412   b  of the support  400 . Intermediate curved portion  610  extends outwardly from side  408 , and extends between and interconnects opening  412   b  and opening  412   c  of the support  400 . Intermediate curved portion  612  extends outwardly from the opposing side  406 , and extends between and interconnects opening  412   c  and opening  412   d  of the support  400 . Lower curved portion  614  extends outwardly from side  408 , and extends between and interconnects opening  412   d  and opening  412   e , which is adjacent the second portion  312  of the base  300 . 
     Thus, opening  412   a  is between and interconnecting the curved portion  606  and curved portion  608  of the second track  600 . Opening  412   b  is between and interconnecting curved portion  608  and curved portion  610 . Opening  412   c  is between and interconnecting curved portion  610  and curved portion  612 . Opening  412   d  is between and interconnecting curved portion  612  and curved portion  614 . Opening  412   e  is between and interconnecting curved portion  614  and the second portion  312  of the base  300 . 
     Each of the first and second tracks  500 ,  600  has a generally helical configuration, spiraling from the upper end portion  404  of the support  400  toward the lower end portion  402  of the support  400 , as shown in  FIG. 8 . Thus, the first and second tracks  500 ,  600  have a relatively symmetrical configuration relative to a longitudinal axis A3 of the support  400 . The curved portions  506 - 514  of the first track  500  and the curved portions  606 - 614  of the second track  600  extend outwardly from the opposing sides  406 ,  408  of the support  400  by selected distances, such as described above with reference to  FIG. 6 . 
     In some embodiments, the first and second tracks  500 ,  600  remain within a footprint defined by the base  300  as the tracks  500 ,  600  extend from their upper end portions  502 ,  602  to their lower end portions  504 ,  604 . In other embodiments, the first track  500  and/or the second track  600  extend outwardly from and beyond the footprint defined by the base  300 . However, the resulting configuration of the play set S4 should be relatively stable and not easily tipped from an upright position when the underside  304  of the base  300  is resting on the support surface S, such as during play. 
     The first track  500  is coupled to the first portion  310  of the base  300 , and the second track  600  is coupled to the second portion  312  of the base  300 . The first and/or second portions  310 ,  312  of the base  300  may include auxiliary track sections integrally formed on or connected to an upper side thereof. 
     In one embodiment, the first portion  310  of the base  300  includes an auxiliary track section  320  integrally formed in (or coupled to) an upper side  322  thereof, as illustrated in  FIG. 15 . Auxiliary track section  320  is connected to end portion  504  of the first track  500 , thereby coupling the first track  500  to the first portion  310  of the base  300 . The first portion  310  may include another auxiliary track section  324  integrally formed in (or coupled to) the upper side  322 . The first portion  310  may additionally include one or more extension or exit ramps  326 ,  328  aligned with and extending outwardly from the auxiliary track sections  320  and/or  324 , respectively. Exit ramps  326 ,  328  may be connected to the first portion  310  of the base  300  via retaining clips, screws, pins, adhesive, etc. Alternatively, the first portion  310  and exit ramps  326 ,  328  may be integrally formed as a unitary component. 
     Similarly, the second portion  312  of the base  300  may include one or more auxiliary track sections. In one embodiment, the second portion  312  includes an auxiliary track section  330  formed in (or coupled to) an upper side  332  thereof, as illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 12 . The auxiliary track section  330  extends around section  416  of the support  400 , and through an auxiliary opening  424  defined by the support  400  and adjacent to opening  412   e  (shown in  FIG. 11 ). In one embodiment, auxiliary track section  330  is connected to end portion  604  of the second track  600 , thereby coupling the second track  600  to the second portion  312  of the base  300 . The second portion  312  may additionally include one or more exit ramps, as described above with respect to the first portion  310  of the base. 
     The first and second portions  310 ,  312  of the base  300  and the support  400  attached thereto define another auxiliary opening  426  through which toy vehicles  700  (or other toys) may pass. Play set S4 may include additional openings, exit ramps, and auxiliary track sections. Thus, the specific configuration and arrangement of the described features as illustrated is exemplary only. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 7 , play set S4 may include a lift  428  slidably coupled to a track  430  disposed along and connected to (or defined by) an edge of the support  430 . The lift  428  is movable between the first portion  310  of the base  300  and the platform  418  at the upper end portion  404  of the support  400 . In one embodiment, an entry ramp  334  extends outwardly from the first portion  310  of the base  300 , and leads to the lift  428 . A toy vehicle, e.g. toy vehicle  700 , may be pushed up the entry ramp  334  and onto the lift  428 . The lift  428  may then be raised to a position adjacent the platform  418 , and the vehicle rolled off the lift  428  and onto the platform  418 . The lift  428  and/or track  430  may include a lock mechanism to releasably retain the lift  428  in the raised position adjacent the platform  418 , such as a cooperating detent and groove configuration, a sliding pin, a latch, etc. The play set S4 may also include one or more pivoting gates which may be selectively pivoted across or away from the path of the first track  500  and/or the second track  600 . 
     Thus, play set S4 (or play sets S1, S2 or S3) may include various additional features that enhance the play experience. A vehicle track play set S5 according to another embodiment and exemplifying such additional features is illustrated in  FIG. 16 . Similarly to play set S4, play set S5 includes a base  800 , a support  850  connected to and extending upwardly from the base  800 , and first and second tracks  900 ,  950  coupled to the support  850  and extending from an upper end portion  852  of the support  850  toward the base  800 . The first track  900  has a spiraling configuration and extends through a first group of openings defined by the support  850 , and the second track  950  has a spiraling configuration and extends through a second group of openings defined by the support  850 , as described above. 
     The base  800  is similar to the base  300  of play set S4, and includes a first portion  802  and a second portion  804  spaced from the first portion  802 . The first portion  802  includes an exit ramp  806 . A lower end of the first track  900  is coupled to the exit ramp  806 . A gate  808  is pivotally mounted between the first track  900  and the exit ramp  806 , which may be pivoted across or away from the travel path of the first track  900 . Another gate  810  is pivotally mounted adjacent an opening  854  in the support  850  adjacent the lower end of the first track  900 , which may likewise be pivoted across or away from the travel path of the first track  900 . The gates can be placed proximate to one or more of the openings in the support  850  to stop a toy vehicle at a desired location relative to the support  850 . 
     The second portion  804  of the base  800  also includes an exit ramp  812 . A lower end of the second track  950  is coupled to the exit ramp  812 . Another gate  814  is pivotally mounted adjacent the support  850  and between openings  856 ,  858  in the support  850 . The gate  814  may be pivoted between a first position blocking one opening  856  and another position blocking the other opening  858  (as shown in  FIG. 16 ) and thus the travel path of the second track  950 . 
     One or more spinning elements may be coupled to the support  850  and extend across or adjacent the first track  900  and/or the second track  950 . For example, a spinning element  860  is rotatably coupled to the support  850  and extends across and partially defines an opening  862  through which the second track  950  passes. As a vehicle proceeds along the second track  950  and through opening  862 , the spinning element  858  is engaged and rotated. 
     A lift  864  is slidably coupled to a track  866  disposed along and connected to (or defined by) an edge of the support  850 , as described above. Accordingly, the lift  864  is movable between the base  800  and the upper end portion  852  of the support  850 . Another auxiliary lift  868  may be coupled to the support  850  and movable toward and away from the base  800 . 
     A central platform  870  is connected to the support  850  and has an end  872  connected to the second track  950 . The platform  870  is configured for receiving one or more toy vehicles  700  (or other toys), which may rest thereon and/or be pushed from the end  872  of the platform  870  onto the second track  950 . 
     Play set S5 may include indicia and other elements directed to a particular theme. For example, play set S5 includes a gas pump fill-up area  1000 , a car wash area  1002 , a repair shop area  1004 , and a store front area  1006 . However, indicia and components may be directed to other themes, such as an underwater theme, a space theme, a dinosaur theme, etc. These elements can be placed proximate to one or more of the openings in the support  850 . 
     Play set S5 may include electronics and associated mechanisms for providing sensory output, such as flashing lights, sound effects and/or music. Such sensory output may be triggered via actuation of one or more switches or push buttons on the base  800 , on the support  850  and/or on the first and/or second tracks  900 ,  950 . In one embodiment, sensory output is triggered upon pivotal movement of gates and/or spinners, such as gates  808 ,  810 ,  814  and spinning element  860 . Alternatively or in addition, one or more switches may be provided on or adjacent the first track  900  and/or the second track  950 , which are triggered as a toy vehicle passes and cause activation of lights, sound effects, or other sensory output. Alternatively or in addition, sensory output may be triggered upon movement of lift  864  and/or lift  868 . 
     In one embodiment, play set S5 includes a mode switch for controlling sensory output. For example, in a first mode all sensory output may be turned off. In a second mode, lights and/or audio output, such as sound effects and music, may be triggered by actuation of one or more switches as described above. In a third mode, primary sensory output such as music may play continuously or for a predetermined period of time, while secondary sensory output such as sound effects may be triggered by actuation of one or more switches. Thus, various combinations and arrangements for providing and actuating sensory output via an electronics package within the play set S5 are possible. 
     The various components of the play sets can be made of plastic. As mentioned above, one or more of the different openings in the support may have a manipulatable structure proximate thereto that stops toy vehicles at that opening. By stopping a toy vehicle at a particular location, a child can play with the toy vehicle where it is stopped. In one embodiment, the support includes little toy shops or play areas where the tracks intersect the support. The shops or areas create the appearance of the toy vehicle traveling through different towns along a trip. A gate or similar structure can be used to stop the toy vehicle at a particular location, as described above. 
     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 and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims. In addition, various features from one of the embodiments may be incorporated into another of the embodiments. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the following claims.