Discrete Launcher, Accelerator, Or Retarder For Toy Vehicle Patents (Class 446/429)
  • Toy
    Patent number: 8267738
    Abstract: A track set is disclosed herein, the track set having: a first track segment pivotally mounted to the track set for movement between a first position and a second position, the first track segment having a first end and a second end; a perforated vessel secured to the first end of the first track segment, wherein a predetermined amount of water in the perforated vessel will maintain the first track segment in the first position; a second track segment mounted to the track set, the second end of the first track segment being spaced from a receiving end of the second track segment and the second end of the first track segment being elevated from the receiving end of the second track segment when the first track segment is in the first position, wherein at least one toy vehicle positioned proximate to the first end of the first track segment will be held there until an amount of water in the perforated vessel is less than the predetermined amount and the first track segment moves from the first position to the s
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Nuttall
  • Patent number: 8192246
    Abstract: A stunt arrangement for a toy vehicle including a launching section configured to launch a propelled toy vehicle into flight; a capturing section configured to receive the toy vehicle from the flight; a deflection section disposed between the launching section and the capturing section and configured to be impacted by the toy vehicle in flight and to redirect the vehicle toward the capturing section, wherein the deflection section includes a target, the target being pivotally secured to a release mechanism for movement from a first position to a second position, wherein movement of the target from the first position to the second position causes the release mechanism to drop another toy vehicle towards the capturing section; and a reorienting section coupled to an outlet of the capturing section, the reorienting section being rotatably driven about the desired direction of travel and is configured to upright the toy vehicle or the another toy vehicle if either vehicle exits the capturing section partly or com
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric C. Ostendorff, Michael Nuttall
  • Publication number: 20120115393
    Abstract: A play set configured for use with an item removably secured to a base item having a plurality of wheels and a ferromagnetic material disposed therein is disclosed herein, the play set having: a plurality of launchers each being configured to launch the item and the base item along one of a plurality of track segments, wherein each of the track segments terminate at a central area; and at least one magnet disposed in the central area, wherein the base item is attracted to the at least one magnet when it reaches the central area after traversing along one of the plurality of track segments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventors: Richelle Moh, Garrett Sander, Ivy Bleser, David Sheltman, Sang Kwak, Elena Velasquez
  • Patent number: 8146857
    Abstract: In example embodiments described herein, techniques are described for launching flying structures such as a plank wings or a gliders, canards, or any other flying structures. In some example embodiments, a rotational arrangement facilitates such launches. In operation, a rotational arrangement couples with the flying structure and is configured to allow a user to impart rotational movement to the flying structure. In imparting the rotational movement, the rotational mechanism allows an automatic variation of a radius of the associated radius of curvature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Freestyle Engineering, LLC
    Inventor: James Michael Lovette
  • Patent number: 8128454
    Abstract: A toy with a launcher to rotate and launch an object is described. Attached within housing, the launcher comprises a driving element to form a drive connection with a receiving element on the object. The launcher is connected with a launcher rotating system, which imparts a rotary movement to the launcher. An energy storing system is mounted inside the housing and drivingly connected with the launcher rotating system. The energy storing system is configured to store potential energy, where upon release, the potential energy is converted to kinetic energy to actuate the launcher rotating system. Thus, user may use the toy to rotate and launch an object from the toy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Rosenblum
  • Patent number: 8106748
    Abstract: A remote-controlled motion apparatus is controlled by a remote control apparatus. The remote control apparatus transmits a target motion signal by radio. The remote-controlled motion apparatus includes a communication module, an acceleration sensing module, a processing module and a driving module. The communication module receives the target motion signal from the remote control apparatus. The acceleration sensing module senses an acceleration of the remote-controlled motion apparatus to output an acceleration sensing signal. The processing module is coupled with the acceleration sensing module and the communication module, and processes the acceleration sensing signal and the target motion signal to output a driving control signal. The driving module is coupled with the processing module to receive the driving control signal, and adjusts the driving of the remote-controlled motion apparatus according to the driving control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Yu-Tuan Lee
  • Patent number: 8083568
    Abstract: The present invention is a totally new children‘s’ toy unlike any of its predecessors; and is based on a novel structural relationship and unique pairing of a replenishable power supply cache of direct electric current in the toy construct with an independent supporting assembly having a hand-operable mechanical dynamo and commutator structure. This relationship and pairing is able to provide newly generated electrical energy at will mechanically, by electrical induction; convert the newly generated electrical energy into direct current; and then transfer the newly generated direct current of the supporting assembly on-demand as replenishment energy to the power supply cache of the toy construct for storage. The replenishment direct current stored within the power supply cache is the immediate and sole reservoir of electric energy for powering and operating the functional component(s) of the toy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Kid Galaxy, Inc
    Inventor: Steven R. Reiss
  • Publication number: 20110294395
    Abstract: In one exemplary embodiment, a toy track set for at least one toy vehicle is provided, the toy track set having: a track path; and a surface rotatably mounted to a base, wherein a portion of the surface comprises a portion of the track path and wherein as the surface rotates on the base the portion of the surface comprising the portion of the track path varies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Stacy Lynn O'Connor, Michael Nuttall
  • Publication number: 20110269370
    Abstract: A track set for toy vehicles is provided, the track set having: a platform defining a receiving area; a first track member being pivotally secured to the platform for movement about at a first axis, and a second track member being pivotally secured to the platform for movement about the first axis, the first and second track members each having a launcher for launching a toy vehicle towards the receiving area, the first track member defining a first movable path towards the receiving area and the second track member defining a second movable path towards to the receiving area; and an actuator configured to simultaneously activate the launcher of each of the first and second track members to propel at least one toy vehicle along at least one of the first and second movable paths toward the receiving area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventor: Stacy Lynn O'Connor
  • Publication number: 20110269369
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a relay for a toy track set, the relay having: a first actuator; a second actuator; an object coupling the first actuator to the second actuator, the object being releasably received on the first actuator and the object has a mechanism configured to retract a cord into the object, the cord being secured to the second actuator at one end and the mechanism at the other end; a trigger moveably secured to the first actuator for movement between a first position and a second position wherein movement of the trigger from the first position towards the second position actuates the mechanism of the object and the object moves towards the second actuator as the mechanism of the object retracts the cord into the object; and a trigger moveably secured to the second actuator for movement between a first position and a second position wherein movement of the trigger from the first position towards the second position launches an object from the second actuator, wherein the trigger secured to the second
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Stacy Lynn O'Connor, Brendon Vetuskey
  • Publication number: 20110263179
    Abstract: A toy vehicle configured to travel along a surface, the toy vehicle having: a main body portion; a plurality of wheels rotatably secured to the main body portion; a lower body portion having an elongated channel passing therethrough, the elongated channel having an open end at at least a forward end of the toy vehicle; an elastic member secured to an outer periphery of the lower portion such that the elastic member is disposed across the open end of the elongated channel; and a tab member pivotally secured to the toy vehicle, the tab member extending from a rear portion of the toy vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Anthony M. Martino
  • Patent number: 8043139
    Abstract: This invention relates to gravity-driven car racing, specifically an improved electrical timing start switch for race tracks such as used in the popular Pinewood Derby race. The present invention eliminates the imprecise coupling between the mechanical release of start posts and the subsequent generation of an electrical timer start signal by a separate micro switch-based contact. The micro switch is eliminated and the start post trigger release mechanism itself is insulated and wired as a normally closed contact that will essentially immediately start the race timer when activated. The difference in the time the start posts begin to move and the time the trigger “switch” activates the timer is then reduced to an extremely short and precise time. This time is that for mechanical movement propagation from the trigger release point to the start posts, only about 20 millionths of a second for a one lane track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Inventor: John Dewey Jobe
  • Patent number: 8016639
    Abstract: An improved start gate for gravity-driven cars which is itself a gravity-driven compound pendulum. The pendulum includes a horizontal drop member rigidly connected at one end to a start post support rod which in turn supports a plurality of start posts. A trigger lever, when moved either directly or remotely, allows the drop member to fall as in a compound pendulum thereby rotating the start posts and allowing the cars to start. The embodiment teaches that the subsequent initial start post acceleration is approximately twice the car acceleration. The equations of motion are solved showing that the start posts are guaranteed not to interfere with car motion. A major advantage over prior art spring-loaded start gates is that the gate “slap” from stopping overly-forceful spring motion and the associated track jarring and car jostling is eliminated, thereby contributing substantially to a more smooth and fair start.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: John Dewey Jobe
  • Patent number: 8011994
    Abstract: An aspect of the present invention provides a toy assembly system comprising a central compartment configured to house a plurality of toy bodies, each toy body having magnetic hubs arranged in an outer region of the body. The system can include outer compartments that house ferromagnetic outer components (e.g., ferromagnetic spheres) separate from the toy bodies and a release mechanism configured to release during a single operation a single toy body and a set of outer components, wherein the single toy body and the set of outer components self-assemble and automatically align. Another aspect provides a toy track system comprising a launch portion configured to magnetically retain the magnetic vehicle in a launch position, a release configured to release the vehicle from the launch position, and a track portion coupled to the launch portion and configured to guide the released vehicle along a predetermined path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: MEGA Brands International
    Inventors: Steven Fink, Neil Hamilton, Michael Hoeting, Yannick Poirier
  • Publication number: 20110212667
    Abstract: A booster for accelerating toy vehicles. The booster includes a rotation source and first and second wheels operatively coupled to the rotation source. Each wheel includes a thin-walled member configured to engage toy vehicles passing between the wheels as the rotation source rotates the wheels in opposite directions. The thin walled member is characterized by an S-shape that allows the relative distance between the wheels to change, thereby accommodating differently sized vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventors: Miva Filoseta, Kin Fai Chang, Jebraeil Samo
  • Publication number: 20110212666
    Abstract: A transforming vehicle and launch system where the vehicle transforms between multiple configurations including a spinning top. The vehicle includes sliding front and rear segments, two sliding side segments and a receiving cavity. The launch mechanism includes a rotating launch shaft in communication with a power system and a release button. The power system includes the capability to generate and store energy. When the front and rear segments move toward one another, the two side segments are pushed outward directing a central shaft downward below the vehicle. The receiving cavity receives the launch shaft and transfers energy from the power system to the vehicle when it rotates. Energy generated and stored in the power system is transferred to the second configuration via the rotation of the launch shaft when a release button is triggered such that the vehicle separates and spins on the central shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Applicant: REHCO, LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey Rehkemper, Ryan Kratz
  • Patent number: 7963821
    Abstract: A stunt arrangement for a toy vehicle including a launching section configured to launch a propelled toy vehicle into flight, a capturing section configured to receive the toy vehicle from the flight, including a narrowing cross-section configured to align a longitudinal axis of the toy vehicle with a desired direction of travel, and a reorienting section coupled to an outlet of the capturing section configured to upright the toy vehicle if the vehicle exits the capturing section partly or completely inverted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric C. Ostendorff
  • Patent number: 7955158
    Abstract: A booster for accelerating toy vehicles. The booster includes a rotation source and first and second wheels operatively coupled to the rotation source. Each wheel includes a thin-walled member configured to engage toy vehicles passing between the wheels as the rotation source rotates the wheels in opposite directions. The thin walled member is characterized by an S-shape that allows the relative distance between the wheels to change, thereby accommodating differently sized vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Miva Filoseta, Kin Fai Chang, Jebraeil Samo
  • Patent number: 7950976
    Abstract: A toy for rotating and launching an object is disclosed. The toy comprises a launcher configured to impart rotary motion to an object. A launcher rotating system is connected with the launcher, and is configured to impart a rotary motion to the launcher. The launcher rotating system engages with a gear rack, the gear rack capable of moving to rotate the launcher rotating system. The launcher rotating system further comprises a clutch mechanism such that continued oscillatory motion of the gear rack causes the launcher rotating system to increase the rotary motion imparted to the launcher and such that withdrawal of the gear rack causes the clutch mechanism to decrease rotary motion imparted to the launcher, whereby a rotating object is released from the launcher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Bernstein, Gabriel Carlson
  • Patent number: 7950977
    Abstract: This invention sets forth a vehicle launcher assembly comprising an inner vehicle carried within an outer vehicle. The outer vehicle has movable panel components which allow an inner vehicle to be released from the outer vehicle when the panel components are opened. Operation of the toy assembly involves one actuation step to open the panels of the outer vehicle, and second actuation step to launch the inner vehicle. In one embodiment, the outer vehicle is in the form of a car and the inner vehicle is in the form of a motorcycle. The vehicle launcher assembly may also include projectile launchers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Steed Sun, Binh Luong, Peter Fan
  • Publication number: 20110124265
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a relay for a toy track set, the relay having: a first actuator; a second actuator; an object movably secured to the relay for movement from a first elevated position to a second lower position; a first trigger moveably secured to the first actuator for movement between a first position and a second position wherein movement of the trigger from the first position towards the second position causes the actuator to release the object from the first elevated position such that the object travels towards the second lower position; and a second trigger coupled the second actuator wherein movement of the second trigger launches an object from the second actuator, wherein the second trigger is moved when the object is at the second lower position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: Stacy Lynn O'Connor, Brendon Vetuskey
  • Patent number: 7942721
    Abstract: A toy is disclosed which is adapted to reconfigure from a simulated vehicle into a simulated toy gun able to launch actual projectiles. In one embodiment, the simulated toy vehicle is provided in the form of a semi or tractor trailer with rotatable wheels which, upon a single rotational movement by the child, can be reconfigured into a toy gun complete with trigger, sliding pump for a firing chamber and visualizing sight or cross hairs as well. In a second embodiment, the vehicle is provided as an airplane or jet which can be reconfigured into a gun able to simultaneously launch multiple projectiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Hasbro, Inc
    Inventor: Jared Wade
  • Publication number: 20110092132
    Abstract: A relay segment for a toy track set, the relay segment having: an incoming track segment pivotally mounted to the relay segment for adjustable movement with respect to the relay segment in a first plane; a trigger movably mounted to the relay segment for movement between a first position and a second position, the trigger being located proximate to the incoming track segment such that a portion of the trigger is positioned above the incoming track segment, wherein the portion moves away from the incoming track segment as the trigger is moved from the first position to the second position; and a launching element for launching a vehicle away from the relay segment when the trigger is moved from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Publication date: April 21, 2011
    Inventors: Stacy Lynn O'Connor, Michael W. Nuttall
  • Patent number: 7927173
    Abstract: A toy vehicle and launching system. The male section of a strap connector is attached to the toy vehicle. The male section has elongated arms that extend from the back of the toy vehicle. Separately, the female section of a strap connector is provided. The female section has a connector body with a front opening and side openings. The elongated arms from the male section are insertable into the connector body through the front opening. The elongated arms pass into the connector body until they reach an engaged position. At the engaged position, the elongated arms engage the side openings and retain the elongated arms within the connector body. The elongated arms store spring energy. When released from the engaged position, the energy stored in the elongated arms acts to accelerate the toy vehicle out and away from the connector body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Inventor: Steve Walterscheid
  • Publication number: 20110086574
    Abstract: A toy vehicle track set is provided. The track set, designed to be used with non-motorized toy vehicle, enables a toy vehicle to travel in a vertical loop without a loop track segment. The track set includes base with an entrance ramp and an exit ramp that enables a toy vehicle to enter and exit a vehicle carrier located at the end of a pendulum arm. The pendulum arm rotates in a vertical loop as a result of the kinetic energy of the toy vehicle and the spring energy of a coil spring located in an axle that couples the pendulum arm to a pillar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: Michael Wayne Nuttall, Paul Schmid
  • Patent number: 7901266
    Abstract: A toy vehicle collision set. The toy vehicle collision set includes a plurality of launchers that propel collision vehicles through the air. The launchers are aimed to propel the plurality of collision vehicles into a collision zone. The collision vehicles fired from the launchers can collide in the collision zone when fired from the launchers. The toy vehicle collision set further includes a track that directs a target vehicle along a path of travel. The path of travel includes an airborne segment in which the target vehicle jumps across the collision zone. Collision vehicles fired from the launchers can be used to knock the target vehicle off its path of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Ostendorff
  • Patent number: 7892068
    Abstract: Vehicle playsets having multiple configurations. The vehicle playsets may include a track segment, a trigger adjacent to the track segment, a moving component adapted to move toward the trigger, and a launch mechanism coupled to the track segment and adapted to launch a toy vehicle along the track segment toward the moving component. Striking the moving component with the toy vehicle will prevent the moving component from reaching the trigger. The playset has at least two configurations including a closed configuration and an open configuration that is suitable for play.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Nuttall, Harold Garner, Stacy O'Connor
  • Patent number: 7887388
    Abstract: A pneumatic manual air pump powered car racing game presents a housing which serves as a powering station from which a race car is propelled down a race track. A pump handle is manipulated to pressurize an air chamber with substantial pressure, which is released to discharge the race car from its starting position at the housing end of the race track to the distal end of the race track. A race car's starting position refers to the releasably yet hermetically sealed male to female junction between the housing and race car. A signal is comprised at the distal end of the race track to indicate a conclusive race by a triggering device, including a mechanical or electronic device for alerting a player that the race car has reached the end of the track. A race is arranged by two or more users with multiple devices by setting up a parallel series of race tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventors: William A. Holsten, Janet Holsten
  • Patent number: 7874892
    Abstract: A playset includes a launching device and one or more accessory toys. The launching device includes a launch tube and a bellows system operable to generate a flow of air through the launch tube. The accessory toys may include vehicles such as air-launched vehicles and surface-launched vehicles. Each accessory toy may include a port that receives the launch tube. In use, an accessory toy is mounted onto the launch tube and the bellows is compressed, causing the air to propel the vehicle into the air or along a surface. In another embodiment, the launch tube may include and interference assembly that selectively prohibits the mounting of an accessory toy onto the launch tube, or prevents the launching of accessory toys already mounted onto the tube. The launching device may further be incorporated into a carrying case or a transport vehicle toy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Alan Hippely
  • Publication number: 20100330873
    Abstract: Described is a cartridge-loaded toy vehicle launcher track set capable of launching multiple toy vehicles across a variety of tracks. The launcher includes a cartridge for holding a plurality of toy vehicles. A launching mechanism is affixed with a launching body of the launcher for receiving a toy vehicle from the cartridge and launching the toy vehicle from the launching body. Additionally, a track connector is connected with the launching body such that a toy vehicle can be launched from the housing and onto the toy vehicle track when the track is connected with the track connector. In one aspect, a string spool is connected with the launching body such that a toy vehicle can be launched from the housing and onto a string when the string is pulled taut in front of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventors: Jim McCafferty, Greg Leong, Gabriel Carlson, Michael Bernstein, Dominic Laurienzo, Dion Fields, Steve DeLacy
  • Patent number: 7857679
    Abstract: A relay segment for a toy track set is provided, the relay segment having a trigger moveably secured to the relay segment proximate to a first vehicle track segment pivotally mounted to the relay segment for adjustable movement with respect to the relay segment, the trigger being capable of movement between a first position and a second position; and a launching element for launching a vehicle from the relay segment when the trigger is moved from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Stacy Lynn O'Connor, Michael W. Nuttall
  • Publication number: 20100323582
    Abstract: A toy vehicle assembly that includes a toy vehicle coupled to a hand-held launcher. The launcher includes a manually rotated platform that is rotated by a user. Rotation of the platform causes a mechanism within the toy vehicle to store energy. The user can place the toy vehicle adjacent to a surface and release the vehicle from the launcher. The stored energy then propels the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventors: Julio Sandoval, George Foster, Ian Osborne
  • Patent number: 7849627
    Abstract: A combat game weapon system includes a pneumatic launcher and an elastic projectile. The pneumatic launcher includes a barrel. The barrel includes a distal end and a bore with an inside diameter. The elastic projectile is configured for being expelled from the distal end of the barrel. The elastic projectile includes a cavity configured for expanding when the cavity receives a propellant from the pneumatic launcher and thereby for causing the elastic projectile to sealingly engage the inside diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Blackpoint Engineering, LLC
    Inventor: Steven J. Wygant
  • Publication number: 20100311306
    Abstract: This invention relates to gravity-driven car racing, specifically an improved electrical timing start switch for race tracks such as used in the popular Pinewood Derby race. The present invention eliminates the imprecise coupling between the mechanical release of start posts and the subsequent generation of an electrical timer start signal by a separate micro switch-based contact. The micro switch is eliminated and the start post trigger release mechanism itself is insulated and wired as a normally closed contact that will essentially immediately start the race timer when activated. The difference in the time the start posts begin to move and the time the trigger “switch” activates the timer is then reduced to an extremely short and precise time. This time is that for mechanical movement propagation from the trigger release point to the start posts, only about 20 millionths of a second for a one lane track.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: John Dewey Jobe
  • Publication number: 20100304639
    Abstract: In some examples, a toy vehicle playset for a toy vehicle is provided with a track assembly including a vehicle launcher operatively connected to a track. The track defines a travel path, and there is a dispensing assembly including a release mechanism positioned adjacent a portion of the track. A trigger assembly is operably connected to the vehicle launcher and the release mechanism so that activation of the trigger assembly may simultaneously activate the vehicle launcher and the release mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventors: Julian Payne, Robert Matthes, Tsz Ho Au, Kam Wah Wei
  • Publication number: 20100291833
    Abstract: A relay for a toy is disclosed herein, the relay having: a first relay segment having an upper portion rotatably secured to a lower portion for movement between a first position and a second position with respect to the lower portion; a trigger coupled to the first relay segment, the trigger being configured for movement from a first position to a second position; a mechanism for retaining the upper portion in the second position after it has been rotated to the second position from the first position, the upper portion being spring biased towards the first position, wherein the mechanism releases the upper portion to allow for rotation movement of the upper portion to the first position from the second position, when the trigger is moved from the first position to the second position; a projectile launcher for launching a projectile into air after the release mechanism releases the upper portion and the upper portion is rotated to the first position from the second position; and a second relay segment, the s
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Publication date: November 18, 2010
    Inventors: Stacy L. O'Connor, Michael Nuttall, Brendon Vetuskey
  • Publication number: 20100273394
    Abstract: A relay segment for a toy track set is provided, the relay segment having a trigger moveably secured to the relay segment proximate to a first vehicle track segment pivotally mounted to the relay segment for adjustable movement with respect to the relay segment, the trigger being capable of movement between a first position and a second position; and a launching element for launching a vehicle from the relay segment when the trigger is moved from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Inventors: Stacy L. O'Connor, Michael Nuttall, Brendon Vetuskey
  • Patent number: 7815486
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a spring-powered toy vehicle with a front body portion, a separable rear body portion, rotating wheels and a spring propulsion system. When the rear body portion is pulled away from the front body portion and released, the spring will pull the rear body portion back into the front body portion, thereby causing the vehicle to move forward. Parallel vehicle guides prevent the rear movable body portion from pulling away in a non-axial direction, thus guiding the propelled toy vehicle in a straight line. Other aspects provide interchangeable and replaceable springs, and body portions. Additionally, vehicle choices include autos, trucks, motorcycles, planes, and construction equipment. A launcher is included that provides a stable platform for launching the vehicles and additionally imparts, through a peg and notch assembly and a spring-loaded plunger, additional kinetic energy for propulsion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Bernstein, Gabriel Carlson
  • Patent number: 7794301
    Abstract: A toy vehicle trackset utilizes a pair of closed track loops each having a lower end and a raised end. The raised ends of the loops are supported by a raised support having a spring-loaded dinosaur launcher within which a flying dinosaur is supported. A target is coupled to the launcher and positioned in alignment with a pair of launch ramps extending from each of the pathways through a center lap counter which is shaped to simulate a volcano. Within the lap counter, a diverter is supported to switch a moving toy vehicle from its normal loop path to the target directed ramp once the toy vehicle has completed a predetermined number of laps upon the loop by one player. A dual loop hand-operated toy vehicle booster is supported at the lower end return path of each of the loops. The child user is able to crank a hand crank to initiate a manual boost of a toy vehicle. Proper timing of the hand crank is essential to impart maximum boost to a toy vehicle and impart rapid vehicle movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Ostendorff, Mike Nuttall
  • Patent number: 7789728
    Abstract: Described is a toy vehicle adapter that includes at least one motorized wheel for attaching with a non-motorized toy vehicle. The adapter includes a housing with an attachment apparatus that is formed to attach with the toy vehicle. A receiver is included that is capable of receiving a wireless signal to actuate the motor. When connected with the toy vehicle, the motor may be activated to engage with the wheel and thereby force the toy vehicle across a surface. Thus, the adapter is formed to convert a non-motorized toy vehicle into a remotely-controlled motorized vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Friedman, Stephen Berman, Jack McGrath
  • Patent number: 7766720
    Abstract: A racing play set for toy vehicles includes a first track segment, a second track segment disposed in intersection with the first track segment, a return portion disposed in communication with the first and second track portions, and a scoring mechanism, where the return portion is configured to be shared by toy vehicles traveling on the first and second track segments, where the return portion is configured to receive a first toy vehicle from the first track segment and return the first vehicle to the first track segment, where the return portion is configured to receive a second toy vehicle from the second track segment and return the second vehicle to the second track segment, where the scoring mechanism is configured to record a pass of the first vehicle through the return portion and a pass of the second vehicle through the return portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Mattel Inc.
    Inventor: Eric C. Ostendorff
  • Publication number: 20100159800
    Abstract: A relay for a toy is disclosed herein, the relay having: a first actuator configured to launch a first object into air; a second actuator; a release mechanism moveably secured to the second actuator for movement between a first position and a second position wherein movement of the release mechanism from either the first position towards the second position or the second position towards the first position by the first object causes the second actuator to propel a second object away from the second actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2010
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventor: Stacy Lynn O'Connor
  • Patent number: 7727047
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide a drive mechanism for launching a figurine. The drive mechanism can include a housing, a rotary drive supported in the housing and being drivingly engageable with the figurine for launching the figurine outwardly from the housing, and a locking element movable between a locked position, in which the locking element engages the rotary drive to prevent movement of the rotary drive with respect to the housing, and an unlocked position, in which the locking member is moved away from the rotary drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventors: Julian Edward Lopez, Michael Yeung
  • Publication number: 20100112896
    Abstract: A corner booster for accelerating toy vehicles includes an entrance to which a toy vehicle enters the booster, and an exit from which the toy vehicle exits the booster. The entrance and exit are orientated so that the toy vehicle turns when traveling from the entrance to the exit. The corner booster further includes a booster member for applying a force to the toy vehicle. The force applied by the booster member increases the speed of the toy vehicle as the toy vehicle travels from the entrance to the exit. The corner booster includes a cocking mechanism that cocks the booster member with preloaded mechanical energy. The preloaded mechanical energy is used to move the booster member to apply the boosting force to the toy vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventors: Kin Fai Chang, Louis Luk Kwok Yau
  • Publication number: 20100041311
    Abstract: The present invention is a totally new children‘s’ toy unlike any of its predecessors; and is based on a novel structural relationship and unique pairing of a replenishable power supply cache of direct electric current in the toy construct with an independent supporting assembly having a hand-operable mechanical dynamo and commutator structure. This relationship and pairing is able to provide newly generated electrical energy at will mechanically, by electrical induction; convert the newly generated electrical energy into direct current; and then transfer the newly generated direct current of the supporting assembly on-demand as replenishment energy to the power supply cache of the toy construct for storage. The replenishment direct current stored within the power supply cache is the immediate and sole reservoir of electric energy for powering and operating the functional component(s) of the toy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Inventor: Steven R. Reiss
  • Patent number: 7637796
    Abstract: A playset for use with a toy vehicle including an elongate track defining at least one travel path. In some examples, the playset includes a switching mechanism for switching a toy vehicle between different travel paths. In some examples, the playset includes an obstacle mechanism for selectively deploying an obstacle in at least one travel path. In some examples, the playset includes indicator mechanisms, including an active indicator mechanism and a passive indicator mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Hippely
  • Publication number: 20090253349
    Abstract: Disclosed is a toy vehicle accelerating apparatus of a traveling toy, the toy vehicle accelerating apparatus including: a vehicle body including a tunnel-like passage piercing the vehicle body in a front-back direction to allow a toy vehicle to pass through the passage; a drive roller, at least a part of which projects to the passage to press the toy vehicle passing through the passage; a roller driving section to give a rotative force for accelerating the toy vehicle to the drive roller; and a power source for the roller driving section, wherein the toy vehicle accelerating apparatus accelerates the toy vehicle entering the passage from one side thereof with the drive roller to discharge the toy vehicle from the other side of the passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: TOMY COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventors: Satoko Iwakoshi, Nobuo Kobayashi, Hiroshi Takase
  • Patent number: 7594843
    Abstract: A toy comprises a housing connected with a launcher to rotate and launch an object. The launcher comprises a driving element to form a drive connection with a receiving element on the object. The launcher is connected with a launcher rotating system, which imparts a rotary movement to the launcher. When the launcher ceases to accelerate the object, the receiving element disengages from the drive connection and launches the object. An interactive device is attached with the housing to increase stimulation and enjoyment. The interactive device operates in conjunction with spinning and launching the object from the toy such that it provides an output in response to a user imparting a rotary motion to the object. Non-limiting examples of such interactive devices include an electronic game, gauges, and a sound-producing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Jakks Pacific, Inc.
    Inventor: Brendon Vetuskey
  • Publication number: 20090227178
    Abstract: A toy for rotating and launching an object is disclosed. The toy comprises a launcher configured to impart rotary motion to an object. A launcher rotating system is connected with the launcher, and is configured to impart a rotary motion to the launcher. The launcher rotating system engages with a gear rack, the gear rack capable of moving to rotate the launcher rotating system. The launcher rotating system further comprises a clutch mechanism such that continued oscillatory motion of the gear rack causes the launcher rotating system to increase the rotary motion imparted to the launcher and such that withdrawal of the gear rack causes the clutch mechanism to decrease rotary motion imparted to the launcher, whereby a rotating object is released from the launcher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: JAKKS Pacific, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Bernstein, Gabriel Carlson
  • Patent number: 7549416
    Abstract: A launch vehicle includes an air pump, an injection valve, a connecting member, a trigger, and a projectile. Thus, the launch vehicle is operated on the ground and is also operated in a hand-held manner, thereby enhancing the amusement effect of the launch vehicle. In addition, the user only needs to hold the air pump and the trigger so as to launch the projectile easily and conveniently in an energy-saving manner, thereby facilitating the user operating the launch vehicle. Further, the launch vehicle has a simplified construction to perform the hand-held launching function, thereby decreasing the costs of fabrication. Further, the launch vehicle is further provided with a safety device to prevent the trigger from being triggered unintentionally to protect the user's safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Jeng-Chian Lin