Abstract: An animation module is configured for use on a marble run module of a plurality of physically interconnectable marble run modules. The module includes a connector, an actuator, switch contacts, and a motor. The connector connects to a connector tube of a first marble run module of the plurality of physically interconnectable marble run modules. The actuator has a button and a shaft, and is configured to dispose at least a portion of the button below a bottom of the connector. The shaft extends upward from the button. The switch contacts are mounted at least indirectly on the connector and have a closed state and an open state. The motor is operably coupled to the switch contacts to rotate responsive to the switch contacts transitioning between the open state and the closed state.

Abstract: An animation module is configured for use on a marble run module of a plurality of physically interconnectable marble run modules. The module includes a connector, an actuator, switch contacts, and a motor. The connector connects to a connector tube of a first marble run module of the plurality of physically interconnectable marble run modules. The actuator has a button and a shaft, and is configured to dispose at least a portion of the button below a bottom of the connector. The shaft extends upward from the button. The switch contacts are mounted at least indirectly on the connector and have a closed state and an open state. The motor is operably coupled to the switch contacts to rotate responsive to the switch contacts transitioning between the open state and the closed state.

Abstract: A triggered marble run module is intended for use with a plurality of physically interconnectable marble run modules. Each module retains a marble and guides the travel of the marble through the module on at least a first surface. The triggered marble run module includes a marble travel path, a marble actuated switch and an output circuit. The marble actuated switch has first and second terminals and is operably coupled to close a circuit between the first terminal and second terminal through the first terminal and the second terminal responsive to actuation by a marble traveling in proximity of the marble actuated switch. The output circuit generates at least one of a group consisting of an audio output, a visual output, and an RF signal output, responsive to formation of the closed circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal through the first and second spring elements.

Abstract: A triggered marble run module is intended for use with a plurality of physically interconnectable marble run modules. Each module retains a marble and guides the travel of the marble through the module on at least a first surface. The triggered marble run module includes a marble travel path, a marble actuated switch and an output circuit. The marble actuated switch has first and second terminals and is operably coupled to close a circuit between the first terminal and second terminal through the first terminal and the second terminal responsive to actuation by a marble traveling in proximity of the marble actuated switch. The output circuit generates at least one of a group consisting of an audio output, a visual output, and an RF signal output, responsive to formation of the closed circuit between the first terminal and the second terminal through the first and second spring elements.