DE102023108392B3 - Connecting element for toy tracks - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to the field of toy trains. More specifically, the invention relates to a connecting element for toy trains. The device comprises a connecting element (1) which has an underside which interacts with one or more clamping blocks (14), and a rail piece attached to the top which is connected to one or more toy train rails (16 ) interacts. The device further comprises at least one column (2), which forms a releasable connection to the laterally attached base of the connecting element. This detachable connection can take place both upwards and downwards starting from the connecting element and thus enables toy train tracks to be guided over one another.

Description

Introduction

The invention relates to the field of toy trains. More specifically, the invention relates to a connecting element for toy trains.

State of the art and disadvantages

Clamping blocks are known as children's toys in different systems and variants from different manufacturers. Clamping blocks include all clamping blocks, e.g. the slightly smaller clamping blocks from LEGO, which are sold under the brand name LEGO ^® (for users aged approx. 4 years) or slightly larger clamping blocks with the brand name DUPLO ^® (for users aged approx. 2 years). are, understood. The slightly larger terminal blocks for younger users have a height of around 19 mm in their usual version. All of the clamping blocks mentioned usually interact with other clamping blocks of the same system with their top, which is equipped with knobs, and the bottom, which is correspondingly equipped with recesses, so that different shapes such as walls, bridges, columns, etc. can be created using several assembled clamping blocks.

Toy train tracks are known as children's toys in different versions and systems from different manufacturers. These toy train tracks therefore include all available toy train tracks, for example those from the Ravensburger Group, which are sold under the brand name BRIO ^® . The fixation of the individual toy train rails is ensured with a simple tongue and groove connection, whereby there is usually, but not necessarily, a groove at one end and a tongue at the other end of a toy train rail. On these toy train tracks, suitable trains with or without wagons can either be pushed or pulled manually or can be moved independently by electrically operated locomotives. This type of toy train track is usually made of wood and has two adjacent cutouts that represent the tracks. Toy train tracks can also be made from other materials such as plastic or metal.

In addition to the usual straight elements in various lengths, toy train tracks also exist in various designs such as curved elements. These curve elements usually form an eighth of a full circle. There are also switches with a straight and a curved toy train track. Other forms include triple switches, crossings and bridge elements. Bridge elements enable the rail guide to rise vertically. These bridge elements alone do not enable increased rail guidance of toy train tracks, since the tongue-and-groove connection without a substructure does not hold the toy train tracks together in an elevated position and does not support them in the vertical direction.

Various connecting elements for toy train tracks with special additional functions are already known. One of these functions is the connection downwards to the usual clamping building blocks mentioned above, and upwards to the toy train tracks mentioned above. The upper part of the clamping module is designed as a short piece of toy train rail and is an integral part of the connecting element.

This special type of clamping building block has the advantage of stably connecting two educationally valuable, well-known toy systems that have been marketed and widely used for decades, so that the toy train tracks can also be used in an elevated position and on top of each other.

However, the previously existing connecting elements have the disadvantage that a complex construction of support elements, for example using clamping blocks, has to be created for a rail guide that is to take place one above the other. Another disadvantage of this construction is that the distance between the two toy train tracks lying one above the other is very large, although the commercially available clamping block geometries cannot solve this problem. Furthermore, a lot of terminal blocks are required. Due to their size, these terminal blocks result in a very cumbersome and bulky structure.

In order to be able to guide toy train tracks from a purely horizontal position in different levels (one above the other), in addition to the bridge elements, there are the elements already mentioned above that combine clamping blocks with toy train tracks. A toy train track can accommodate a certain gradient angle of up to approx. 10° without impairing the use of the toy train track too much. These impairments include, for example, the unintentional uncoupling of wagons, derailments, or the unintentional stopping of electric locomotives if the respective gradient angles of successive toy trains deviate too much rails. The tongue-and-groove connection of the toy train track can no longer be snapped into place correctly at a certain angle. For a normal length of a straight or curved toy train track, this angle, which leads to malfunctions, corresponds to approximately half the height of a clamping building block for users aged approx. 2 years. A common terminal block of this type has a full height of approximately 19 mm. Special clamping modules around half the height already exist, but are often not included in older product ranges in particular.

This disadvantage is particularly significant in the case of a rail guide that runs in a helix, since if the gradient is too high, the connection of the individual toy train rails to each other and also to the vertical connecting elements is no longer guaranteed and this can lead to derailments or trains stalling.

Tracks for toy vehicles with elevations are, for example, from the publications DE 20 2022 000 524 U1 , US 2015 / 0 283 472 A1 , US 2013 / 0 126 628 A1 , US 5,456,410 A , US 5,873,521 A , US 4,826,076 A , US 2016 / 0 236 109 A1 , CA 2 371 157 A1 known. However, the proposed solutions either do not allow the tracks to be arranged one above the other, or they are based on rail sections whose ends run horizontally in a long-known manner, which circumvents the problem described above.

Task of the invention and solution

The invention is therefore based on the object of providing a device which avoids the disadvantages of the prior art.

Accordingly, the device should be suitable for enabling different gradients of railway rails, with a secure connection being guaranteed at all times both between the rails themselves and to vertical connecting elements.

The task is solved by a device according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments can be found in the dependent subclaims, the following description and the figures.

Description

The device comprises a connecting element, which in turn comprises a bottom side, which is set up for the interaction of the connecting element with one or more clamping modules, and which further comprises a top side, which comprises a rail piece arranged thereon, so that the connecting element can be connected to one or more Toy train tracks can work together. The device further comprises at least one (separate) column which cooperates upwards and/or downwards with a base attached to the connecting element.

The at least one column is designed to be able to form a releasable connection to the base of a connecting element above and/or below, which means that toy train tracks can be guided over and under one another.

In other words, a base attached to the side of the connecting element offers the possibility of attaching the at least one column upwards and downwards at the same time. This means that any number of toy train tracks can be arranged one on top of the other.

In addition, the base of the connecting element is equipped with at least one recess and / or an elevation at the top and bottom, which, in cooperation with a corresponding elevation and / or recess at the upper and / or lower end of the at least one column, creates a clamp connection with one above it - and/or underlying connecting element.

Accordingly, the base of the connecting element has a geometric feature for positive and preferably also non-positive interaction (e.g. clamping) with a corresponding geometric feature at the upper and / or lower end of the at least one column.

According to the invention, the connection between the recess and/or elevation between the base of the connecting element and the at least one column has a clearance that can compensate for angular differences between 0 and 15° longitudinally, transversely and vertically to the rail guide, which naturally arise from a helical rail guide.

With the device according to the invention, which includes a connecting element and at least one column, a new, interesting play option is offered, which enables the construction of toy train tracks in combination with clamping blocks in order to be able to guide the toy train tracks over one another in a simple and aesthetic manner.

Another advantage of this invention is that toy train tracks usually require a lot of space, which can be greatly reduced if the rail guides run one above the other and run in the form of a helix. This offers the advantage, especially to families with small apartments and little space, because users can build long and complicated rail systems and therefore have more fun playing. The components according to the invention can also be used for a rail guide that runs one above the other without creating a helical rail guide.

As already mentioned above, half-height clamping modules of the larger version are necessary for a rising rail guide. It is recommended to increase the substructure made of clamping blocks for users aged approx. 2 years, which are approximately 19 mm high, by approximately half the height. When setting up the rail guide, the user is asked to count not only whole numbers but also half numbers and thereby learn how to count them.

The present invention thus promotes creative play through various factors, promotes the user's motor and mental abilities and combines two well-known and educationally valuable game systems with one another.

The invention thus avoids the disadvantages known from the prior art in that the present invention provides a new connecting element which can interact downwards with other clamping components of a kit and upwards with toy train tracks and with the help of one or more additional Columns create a device so that the toy train tracks can run on top of each other in a simple manner and the gradient is not so great that it impairs play.

Various embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below.

According to another embodiment, the base of the connecting element is equipped laterally outwards with at least one recess and / or elevation, which, in cooperation with a corresponding elevation and / or recess at the upper and / or lower end of the at least one column, forms a clamp connection system with an above- and / or underlying connecting element, so that a releasable connection is provided in order to be able to guide toy train tracks one above the other.

According to a further embodiment, the base of the connecting element is equipped laterally in the direction of the rail guide with at least one recess and / or elevation, which, in cooperation with a corresponding elevation and / or recess at the upper and / or lower end of the at least one column, forms a clamping connection system with a above and / or underlying connecting element, so that a releasable connection is provided in order to be able to guide toy train tracks one above the other.

According to a preferred embodiment, the connecting element comprises at least one support surface, which is positioned such that one end of a toy train track can be placed on it. This solves the problem that exists with an elevated arrangement of toy train rails coupled to one another, since the tongue and groove connection can only absorb tensile and compressive forces that essentially run in the rail plane, but not forces that are perpendicular to this plane. If a first toy train rail is elevated, the subsequent one must also be held at the appropriate height using a suitable support, otherwise it would slide down.

This means that the toy train rail cannot slide down because the support surface carries and supports the corresponding end of the toy train rail. It is clear that the height of the support surface is chosen so that the top of the rail piece and the top of a coupled toy train rail run in the same plane in order to enable step-free coupling. For this purpose, the rail piece and the toy train rail preferably have the same height.

Particularly preferably, the connecting piece has two opposing support surfaces, which then support two toy train rails that can be coupled to both ends of the connecting element. The support surfaces preferably lie essentially in the same plane.

According to another embodiment, the column has a bend at its upper and lower ends, so that the column connected to the connecting element is arranged offset further outwards from the center of the track. This means that the clear width between two opposite columns is increased compared to columns without the offset, so that there is more space for a train traveling between the columns, which is particularly advantageous in curves. It is clear that the offset is positioned so that at least the one at the height of the train Section of the column is completely offset to the outside. The offset is preferably located in the vicinity of the plug connection to the connecting element.

The attachment of at least one column to the base of the connecting element can be ensured, for example, by a plug connection. This plug connection can be plugged in and released again in a vertical, horizontal or other direction between the connecting element and the column. It is also conceivable that the connection is achieved by a thread or a magnet system, or that only one or more than two columns can be used to place the connecting elements on top of each other.

Accordingly, according to one embodiment, the base of the connecting element is equipped at the top and / or bottom with at least one screw connection, which, with a correspondingly matching screw connection at the upper and / or lower end of the at least one column, forms a connection system with a connecting element above and / or below so that a releasable connection is provided in order to be able to run toy train tracks one above the other.

According to another embodiment, the base of the connecting element is designed to form a magnetic connection with the upper and / or lower end of the at least one column, so that a releasable connection is provided in order to be able to guide toy train tracks one above the other.

According to a further embodiment, the at least one column is designed to be telescopic in order to be able to adjust a certain incline of the rail guide. Accordingly, the gradient can also be varied in this way. It is clear that the column can be blocked in the selected length, for example by friction or locking elements.

The plug connection between the columns can be designed in such a way that it can accommodate angle differences in all directions. The angular differences are preferably 0° to 35°, but at least 0° to 25°, or at least 0° to 15°.

According to a further embodiment, the rail piece of the connecting element has a length that is approximately between 19 and 21 mm. This length has the advantage that it represents approximately one seventh of a curved element of a toy train track, which has the shape of an eighth of a full circle. This offers the possibility of creating a full circle again from seven curved elements of a toy train track and seven connecting elements. This is particularly relevant if the connecting elements lie exactly one above the other when arranging a helical rail guide. This then offers the possibility that several connecting elements can be connected one above the other using the columns.

In this respect, the invention also relates to a system comprising the connecting element described here with one or more columns, as well as with one or more toy train tracks, of which at least one, and preferably seven, is or are each bent around an eighth of a circle.

According to a further embodiment, the shape of the at least one column is such that it can be used as a clamping module, having half the height of a clamping module with which it is intended to interact.

Creating a helical rail guide requires a constant increase in the toy train tracks. This increase can be done on the underside of the connecting elements using, for example, terminal blocks. It is advisable to use larger terminal blocks for users aged around 2 years and over. These clamping blocks have a fixed height, for example a height of approximately 19 mm, and are used by a similar age group of users as the toy train tracks. However, this height is too high by a factor of approximately two. Half-height terminal blocks exist, but are rare. For this reason, an advantageous embodiment of the invention offers the possibility of equipping a column with the dual function of a clamping module at approximately half the height. This means that, if there are enough columns, they can also be used as a clamping module at an ideal height. This height is approximately 9.5 mm, but can also be between 5 and 15 mm.

It is clear that the (halved) dimension must be adapted to the actual (full height) dimension of a respective (any) terminal block system in order to actually achieve the desired advantage.

According to a further embodiment, the entire width of the connecting element (including the base together with the geometry of the attached at least one column does not exceed a total width of 65 mm.

Switches or crossing elements of toy train tracks have the special feature that they have two at one or both ends Connection points to the next element of a toy train track are very close to each other. With connecting elements that have a base on the side, it can happen that they lead to a collision. This means that two connecting elements cannot be used at the two adjacent connection points. If the width of a connecting element including the base is a maximum of 65 mm, a collision is excluded.

According to one embodiment, the sum of the length of the column and the sum of the height of the base is between 65 mm and 90 mm.

A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is an inclination between the plane on which the rail piece lies and the plane that is defined by the underside. The plane of the rail section is defined by the x and y axes of the coordinate system. The plane of the underside, which offers the connection to terminal blocks, is inclined to the x and / or y axis of the coordinate system in this embodiment. An inclination of the two planes around the y-axis allows trouble-free use of steeper angles than the above-mentioned approx. 3° to 8° of the toy train tracks. An inclination of the two levels around the x-axis allows trouble-free use of steep curves on the toy train tracks. In addition, it is also conceivable that any straight line that runs through the xy plane causes the two planes to tilt. The angle created between the two levels can be up to 180°. This solution ensures that a toy train runs smoothly on very steeply inclined toy train tracks, which further increases the play value.

According to a further embodiment, the column has at least one longitudinal slot directed in and/or against the direction of travel, into which a band can be inserted. The gang has the task of delimiting the path of the toy train track on one or both sides, so that an object that is not guided through the grooves of the toy train track, such as a ball or a roller, still does not leave the toy train track to the side. The band can be arranged on one or both sides, although it is clear that correspondingly positioned longitudinal slots must then also be present in successive columns. If necessary, the band can have a curvature that follows the curve of the toy train rail.

The invention also relates to a connecting element designed to cooperate with a toy train track and a column as defined above, the connecting element being designed as defined above.

The invention also relates to a column designed to interact with a connecting element according to the above definition, the column being designed according to the above definition.

To avoid repetition, please refer to the explanations above.

Character description

The invention is explained below by way of example using figures.

• 1 zeigt die perspektivische Ansicht des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselements 1 mit zwei Säulen 2.
• 2 zeigt eine Ansicht von oben des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungselements 1, in der vorrangig die Merkmale der Oberseite zu erkennen sind.
• 3 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungsstücks, in der vorrangig die Merkmale der Oberseite zu erkennen sind.
• 4 zeigt eine weitere perspektivische Ansicht des erfindungsgemäßen Verbindungsstücks, in der vorrangig die Merkmale der Unterseite zu erkennen sind.
• 5 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht der erfindungsgemäßen Säule 2, in der vorrangig die Merkmale der Oberseite zu erkennen sind.
• 6 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht der erfindungsgemäßen Säule 2, in der vorrangig die Merkmale der Unterseite zu erkennen sind.
• 7 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Klemmbausteins 14 für Benutzer ab ca. 2 Jahren (Stand der Technik).
• 8 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Spielzeugeisenbahnschiene 16 in gebogener Ausführung in Form eines Achtel Vollkreises mit der typischen Nut und Feder Verbindung an beiden Enden (Stand der Technik).
• 9 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht einer Spielzeugeisenbahnschiene 20 in Form einer Weiche (Stand der Technik).
• 10 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Verbindungselements 25 ohne die Möglichkeit eine Vorrichtung zu fixieren (Stand der Technik).
• 11 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht einer helixförmigen Schienenführung 28, in der unter anderem das erfindungsgemäße Verbindungselement 1 mit der Säule 2 abgebildet sind.
• 12 zeigt eine perspektivische Detailansicht 29 des Ausschnitts Z der 11.
• 13 zeigt eine Ansicht in x-Richtung des Querschnitts Y, 30 aus 12.
• 14 zeigt eine perspektivische, alternative Ausführung einer Säule 31.
• 15 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht 33 einer Weiche 20 gem. 9 und Verbindungselementen 1 und Säulen 31.
• 16 zeigt eine teilweise Explosionsansicht 34 eines Verbindungselements 37 und Säulen 38, 39 in teilweiser Explosionsansicht, in der vorrangig die Merkmale der Oberseite zu erkennen sind, gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• 17 zeigt eine teilweise Explosionsansicht 41 eines Verbindungselements 37 und Säulen 38, 39 in teilweiser Explosionsansicht, in der vorrangig die Merkmale der Unterseite zu erkennen sind, gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• 18 zeigt eine teilweise Explosionsansicht 45 einer Baugruppe, die unter anderem zwei Verbindungselemente 46, zwei Spielzeugeisenbahnschienen 47 und zwei Säulen 48 umfasst, gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• 19 zeigt eine teilweise Explosionsansicht 51 eines Verbindungselements und zwei Säulen 52, in der diese teleskopierbar ausgestattet sind, in der vorrangig die Merkmale der Oberseite zu erkennen sind, gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• 20 zeigt eine perspektivische Explosionsansicht 53 einer Baugruppe mit einem Verbindungselement 55 und zwei Säulen 54, gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• 21 zeigt eine perspektivische Explosionsansicht 57 einer Baugruppe mit einem Verbindungselement 62 und zwei Säulen 58, gemäß einem weiteren Ausführungsbeispiel der vorliegenden Erfindung.
• 22 zeigt eine Ausführungsform der Säule mit vergrößerter lichter Weite.
• 23 zeigt eine solche Säule im Zusammenbau.
• 24 und 25 zeigen eine weitere Ausführungsform einer Säule in verschiedenen Ansichten.
• 26 zeigt einen Zusammenbau unter Verwendung von Säulen aus 24 und 25.

For an overview: The 1 until 6 show the device according to the invention according to claim 1. The 7 until 10 show the state of the art and serve to improve understanding. The 11 until 13 show an application example of this invention. The 14 until 26 show further advantageous embodiments of this invention. In detail:

• 1 shows the perspective view of the connecting element 1 according to the invention with two columns 2.
• 2 shows a view from above of the connecting element 1 according to the invention, in which primarily the features of the top can be seen.
• 3 shows a perspective view of the connector according to the invention, in which primarily the features of the top can be seen.
• 4 shows a further perspective view of the connector according to the invention, in which primarily the features of the underside can be seen.
• 5 shows a perspective view of the column 2 according to the invention, in which primarily the features of the top can be seen.
• 6 shows a perspective view of the column 2 according to the invention, in which primarily the features of the underside can be seen.
• 7 shows a perspective view of a terminal block 14 for users aged approx. 2 years (prior art).
• 8th shows a perspective view of a toy train rail 16 in a curved design in the form of an eighth of a full circle with the typical tongue and groove connection at both ends (prior art).
• 9 shows a perspective view of a toy train track 20 in the form of a switch (prior art).
• 10 shows a perspective view of a connecting element 25 without the possibility of fixing a device (prior art).
• 11 shows a perspective view of a helical rail guide 28, in which, among other things, the connecting element 1 according to the invention with the column 2 are shown.
• 12 shows a perspective detailed view 29 of the section Z of 11 .
• 13 shows a view in the x direction of the cross section Y, 30 12 .
• 14 shows a perspective, alternative version of a column 31.
• 15 shows a perspective view 33 of a switch 20 according to. 9 and connecting elements 1 and columns 31.
• 16 shows a partial exploded view 34 of a connecting element 37 and columns 38, 39 in a partial exploded view, in which primarily the features of the top can be seen, according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• 17 shows a partial exploded view 41 of a connecting element 37 and columns 38, 39 in a partial exploded view, in which primarily the features of the underside can be seen, according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• 18 shows a partial exploded view 45 of an assembly that includes, among other things, two connecting elements 46, two toy train tracks 47 and two columns 48, according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• 19 shows a partial exploded view 51 of a connecting element and two columns 52, in which these are equipped to be telescopic, in which primarily the features of the top can be seen, according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• 20 shows an exploded perspective view 53 of an assembly with a connecting element 55 and two columns 54, according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• 21 shows an exploded perspective view 57 of an assembly with a connecting element 62 and two columns 58, according to a further exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
• 22 shows an embodiment of the column with increased clear width.
• 23 shows such a column in assembly.
• 24 and 25 show another embodiment of a column in different views.
• 26 shows an assembly using columns 24 and 25 .

It should be noted in advance that all exemplary embodiments of this patent application refer to the slightly larger terminal blocks 14, which can be used by users aged approx. 2 years. In the present case, these have a height H2 of approximately 19 mm. However, the invention is not limited to this and can also be applied to terminal blocks of other sizes and shapes.

This in 1 - 4 The connecting element 1 shown has 10 on its underside (see Fig. 4 ) Recesses that are connected to the knobs 15 of terminal blocks 14 (see for example 7 ) work together and form a clamp connection. The top of the connecting element 1 includes a rail piece 3 which has two cutouts 4 which represent tracks for toy trains. The track width of these tracks matches the corresponding toy train tracks 16, 20, 47 (see for example 8th , 9 ). However, the invention is not limited to the toy train tracks 16, 20, 47 shown here, but can also be used for other systems with appropriate adjustments. Furthermore, the top of the connecting element 1 includes a groove 5 and tongue 6, which form a positive connection with the toy train rails 16, 20, 47. The top can therefore essentially be viewed as a short toy train rail analogous to the toy train rails 16, 20, 47. In this exemplary embodiment, two bases 7 are attached to the top side in the y direction, each of which has a recess 8, 9. In this exemplary embodiment, these depressions 8, 9 point up and down in the z direction. These depressions 8, 9 interact with the corresponding elevations 11 of the column 2, so that a releasable clamp connection is created. The connecting element 1, the columns 2 and their connection to one another are stable enough to be able to attach further connecting elements 1 above and below the connecting element 1 in the z direction. In addition, this system is stable enough to accommodate toy train tracks 16, 20, 47 on all grooves 5 and 6 tongues.

It is conceivable that the connection between connecting elements 1 according to an embodiment not shown only consists of a lateral attached pillar 1. Consequently, it is sufficient if the connecting element 1 has only one base 7.

In the example shown, the rail piece 3 is equipped with a groove 5 and a tongue 6 in order to create the corresponding connection to toy train rails 16, 20, 47. However, these connections could also be implemented as two tongue or two tongue versions.

The connecting element 1 also includes two support surfaces 70, 71 for the ends of the toy train rails 16, 20, 47 that can be coupled to the groove 5 or tongue 6. The ends of the toy train rails 16, 20 can rest on these support surfaces 70, 71 lying in a common plane , 47 so that the toy train tracks do not slip downwards if they are not supported in another way in the middle (for example by an additional support).

The 2 , 3 and 4 show the connecting element 1, which includes, among other things, a top side. In this exemplary embodiment, the length L1 is between 19 mm and 21 mm. This length can also vary up and down. In this exemplary embodiment, the length L1 represents approximately one seventh of the length of a curved version of a toy train rail 16. This type of toy train rail 16 requires eight elements for a full circle, or in this example seven curved toy train rails 16 and seven connecting elements 1 for a full circle.

In the 4 Recesses 9 shown on the underside of the connecting element 1 enable the connection to columns 2 downwards. This recess 9 can also deviate from, and therefore differ from, the upwardly directed recess 8. The underside 10 of the connecting element 1 is designed in such a way that the knobs 15, which are attached to the top of clamping modules 14, enter into a clamping connection with the underside 10. The knobs on the top of slightly smaller clamping blocks of a similar building block system, which are mostly suitable for older users aged around 4 years and over, can also form this clamping connection.

The exemplary version of a column 2 is shown in the 5 and 6 explained. The column 2 has an elevation 11 at both ends, which interacts with the matching recess 8, 9 on the base 7 (see previous figures). This exemplary embodiment shows identical elevations 11 at the top and bottom because the corresponding depressions 8, 9 are also identical. However, this is not absolutely necessary and it is also conceivable that different connection systems are chosen at the ends.

The length L2 of the column is chosen in coordination with the height H4 of the base 7 so that the gradient of a helical rail guide of approx. 3° to 8° is not exceeded, on the one hand to ensure a smooth ride of a toy train, and on the other hand not is undercut, so that there is enough vertical distance (height H3) between two connecting elements to allow toy trains to pass through without collision. This distance H3 must be at least 50 mm.

Furthermore, this version of the column 2 has the special feature that the height dimension H1 essentially represents half the height of a terminal block 14. The terminal block 14 usually has a height of approximately 19 mm, so that according to an exemplary embodiment, the height H1 is approximately 9.5 mm. However, the invention is not limited to this height H1. In addition, there are four knobs 12 on the top and recesses 13 on the bottom, which enable a connection to terminal blocks 14.

The ones in the 6 The perspective view shown of the underside of the column 2 is designed analogously to the underside 10 of the connecting element 1, so that here too the top of common terminal blocks 14, as well as the top of terminal blocks for users aged approx. 4 years, can be connected and have the usual clamping effect.

The 7 shows the state of the art of a terminal block 14 for users aged approx. 2 years with four attached knobs 15 on the top. The length and width of this type of terminal block are generally stated as a product with the number of knobs on the terminal block 14. This example is therefore 2 x 2 = 4. The height H2 of this terminal block is approximately 19 mm. The length and width of this terminal block is approx. 32 mm.

The curved design of a toy train rail 16 is state of the art and points out 8th a groove 18 and a tongue 19 and fits together with the groove 5 and tongue 6 of the connecting element 1, as well as with the groove 23 and tongue 24 of a switch 20.

The two adjacent cutouts 17 represent the tracks for corresponding toy trains.

9 shows an example of a switch 20 according to the prior art. In this case, the two rail pieces 21 and 22 lying next to each other have two springs 24. The opposite rail piece has a corresponding groove 23.

10 shows a connecting element 25 from the prior art with the possibility of connecting to clamping blocks 14 downwards and the connection for toy train tracks 16, 20, 47 upwards. The version also shows a groove 26 and tongue 27 for the corresponding fixation. Groove 26 and tongue 27 are designed similarly to the groove 5 and tongue 6 of the connecting element 1. However, this connecting element 25 has no base and therefore does not offer the possibility of attaching a column.

An example of an application of a helical rail guide 28 is shown in 11 shown. In this example, two circuits are shown. Depending on the number of components available, more or less or only a fraction of a cycle can be constructed. The necessary, continuously increasing substructure of the connecting elements to create a helix can be seen by the continuously increasing number of clamping modules 14 and columns 2. Every second substructure is shown with two columns 2, which do not have the function of columns, but of clamping blocks at half the height H1. However, this function could also be guaranteed with a terminal block 14, but at half the height. The remaining terminal blocks 14 have the usual height H2. The substructures shown show different heights, which are naturally necessary in order to obtain a helical rail guide 28. In addition to the clamping blocks 14 and columns 2 shown, these heights can also be achieved with other geometries of clamping blocks for ages from approx. 2 years, as well as for the slightly smaller clamping blocks for ages from approx. 4 years.

The use of toy train tracks running one above the other is not limited to helical shapes, but can also be used for straight elements of toy train tracks 47 acc. 18 can be used that do not produce a helix.

12 shows an assembly 29 which comprises the section Z 11 depicts. Individual elements already mentioned are easier to see. In this example, the clamping module 14 and the two horizontal columns 2 with the additional function of a clamping module form the substructure with a height of one and a half times the height of a clamping module 14. Consequently, the next connecting element 2 used in the ascending direction (not shown) has two clamping modules 14 as a substructure . In the descending direction, the substructure has the height of a clamping module 14 (not shown).

13 shows the assembly 29 in view Y 12 .This view shows the clear height H3 and the clear width B1 resulting from the combination of the geometry of the connecting element 1 and the columns 2. This point also forms the narrowest point of the entire track.

14 shows an alternative version of a column 31, which is more space-saving. This column 31 also has the correspondingly matching elevations 32. The column 31 has the length L3, which is the length L2 4 corresponds. Here too, it is not absolutely necessary that the elevations 32 are designed identically at both ends.

The assembly 33 in 15 shows a perspective view of a switch 20 acc. 9 in connection with connecting elements 1 and columns 31. The two connecting elements 1 and the two inner columns 31 are designed in such a way that there is no collision between the two connecting elements 1 and the two columns 3. This collision is prevented in this application example by not exceeding the width in the y-direction of the connecting element 1 of 65 mm and the columns 31 not protruding beyond the connecting element 1 in the y-direction.

The assemblies 34 and 41 in the 16 and 17 show a partial exploded view of an alternative connecting element 37 with two different columns 35 and 36. These columns 35 and 36 also have the additional function of a clamping module in which they have the corresponding elevations as knobs 38, 39 and depressions as recesses 42, 43. The bases of the connecting element 37 each have at least one knob 40 on both sides, which forms a clamp connection with the recesses in the columns 35, 36. The shorter column 36 in turn has half the height H1 of a clamping module 14. The sum of the heights of the two columns 35 and 36 in combination with the geometry of the base of the connecting element 37 in turn results in the height H3. The underside of the base of the connecting element 37 has recesses 44 which cooperate with the knobs 38, 39. The recesses at the bottom are identical to the recesses 10 of the connecting element 1 and thus also offer the connection to terminal blocks 14 (not shown). The top of this advantageous embodiment corresponds to the top of the connecting element 1.

The assembly 45 in 18 shows two alternative connecting elements 46, which can also be attached to toy train rails, here using two straight rail pieces 47 as an example. Contrary to the previously presented solutions, the matching columns 48 are not attached vertically in the z direction, but horizontally laterally in the y direction with a recess shown in this example on the bases 49 and elevations 50 on the columns 48. The geometry of these connecting elements 46 has the advantage that they only have a very small laterally projecting base 49 and thus there are more possible uses if the connecting element 49 is to be used without columns 48. The greatly reduced bases 49 have the advantage that a large (wide) base cannot cause collisions when the toy train tracks are very close together. The recesses at the bottom are identical to the recesses 10 of the connecting element 1 and thus also offer the connection to terminal blocks 14 (not shown). The top of this advantageous embodiment corresponds to the top of the connecting element 1.

The assembly 51 in 19 shows an existing connecting element 37 from the 16 and 17 . The new version shown in this figure of two columns 52 that can be telescoped vertically in the z direction can be combined with any configuration of the column 2, 31; 35, 36, 48; 52, 54; 58. The telescopic adjustment of the length of the column 52 can offer further attractive play options. There are already various technical implementations of space-saving, telescopic elements. These can be implemented with a latching function, with a spring or with another solution. A corresponding implementation is not discussed in more detail in this description.

The assembly 53 in 20 shows an alternative connecting element 55, which has a recess 56 in the x direction at the base and 54 on the column and an elevation at the upper and lower ends. The recesses at the bottom, not shown, are identical to the recesses 10 of the connecting element 1 (see above) and thus also offer the connection to terminal blocks 14 (not shown).

The assembly 57 in 21 shows an alternative connecting element 62, which forms a screw connection with the columns 58. The threads 60 of the columns 58 and the threads 61 on the bases 63 of the connecting element 62 form a firm, releasable connection. When using only one column, this compound can also be implemented at the top of the column. However, this example shows the version with two columns 58, at the upper end of which there is an elevation 59 in the form of a knob, which connects to the underside of a further connecting element 62 (not shown). The recesses at the bottom are identical to the recesses 10 of the connecting element 1 and thus also offer the connection to terminal blocks 14. The top of this advantageous embodiment corresponds to the top of the connecting element 1 (see above).

A further advantageous embodiment of the invention, not shown, is the use of magnetic elements which provide a releasable connection between the columns 2, 31; 35, 36 48; 52, 54; 58 and the bases of the connecting elements 1; 37; 46; 55; 62 can enter. It is possible for a north or south pole to be attached to the above-mentioned columns and bases to ensure the magnetic connection. It is also conceivable that a magnet of any polarity is attached only to the columns or only to the bases, and the corresponding counterpart only has a magnetic metal piece which forms a connection with the magnet.

In the 22 and 23 a column 90 is shown, which makes it possible to increase the clear width B2 between it and the opposite column. For this purpose, the column has an offset 82 at the top and bottom, so that it is offset further outwards from the center of the track. This means there is more space for a train (not shown) to pass between the two columns of a connecting element 1.

A further, advantageous embodiment, in particular of the column 90, is in the 24 and 25 shown. This embodiment of the column comprises a longitudinal slot 80, which is made at least on one side, in the present case preferably on both sides, in the side(s) of the column. It can be interrupted or, as shown, continuous.

How out 26 As can be seen, a band 81, shown hatched in the present case, can be inserted into said longitudinal slots 80 of successive columns 90. This barrier 81 delimits the road on one or, as shown, on both sides. This has the advantage that not only a train traveling in the grooves of the toy train tracks 16, 20, 47, but also, for example, a ball or roller rolling between the grooves (not shown in each case) can roll on an inclined and/or curved path, without to leave the toy train track 16, 20, 47 to the side. In this way, an additional function is provided to use the toy train tracks as one Type of marble run to use, which significantly increases the value of the game.

The band can be almost the same height as the column, as shown, or lower, for example half as high. Bands of different heights can also be combined.

Although embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, the embodiments are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. The embodiments may be implemented in various other ways and may be supplemented, combined, or changed in various ways without departing from the scope of the subject matter of this disclosure. Additionally, each embodiment may be implemented by partially changing a configuration or a form thereof.

The principles and preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in the previous specification. However, the invention sought to be protected is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. Variations and changes may be made by others and equivalents may be employed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Accordingly, it is expressly desired that all such variations, modifications and equivalents that come within the spirit and scope of the present invention, which is defined by the claims, be included herein.

Reference symbol list

1,25,37,46,55,62

connecting element

2,31,35,36,48,52,54,58

pillar

3

piece of rail

4.17

milling

5,18,23,26

Nut

6,19,24,27

Feather

7,49,63

Base

8,9,56

deepening

10

bottom

11,32,50,59

survey

12,15,38,39,40

nubs

13,42,43,44

recess

14

Terminal block

16,20,47

Toy train track

20

Soft

21,22,47

piece of rail

28

Rail guide

29,30,33,34,41,45,51,53,57

module

60, 61

thread

70.71

Support surface

80

Longitudinal slot

81

band

82

cranking

90

Column with offset

100

deepening

B1, B2

clear width

L1,L2,L3

length

H1,H2,H3,H4

Height

Z

Detail

Claims (16)

Device with a connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62), this comprising a bottom (10), which is set up for the interaction of the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) with one or more terminal blocks (14), further comprising a rail piece (3) arranged on the top of the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) for the interaction of the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) with one or more toy train tracks (16, 20, 47 ), further comprising at least one column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58), which has a base (7; 49; 7; 49; 62) attached to the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62). 63) interacts upwards and/or downwards, wherein the at least one column is designed to be able to form a releasable connection to the base of a connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) located above and/or below, which This means that toy train tracks can be guided over and under each other, and the base (7) of the connecting element (1) has at least one recess (8, 9; 44; 56) and / or a survey (40) which, in cooperation with a corresponding survey (11, 32; 38, 39; 50; 59) and / or depression (42, 43) at the upper and / or lower end of the at least one column enters into a clamping connection with a connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) above and/or below, characterized in that the connection between the recess (8) and/or elevation (11, 32) between the base (7) of the connecting element (1) and the at least one column (2, 31) has a clearance that can compensate for angular differences between 3° and 15° longitudinally, transversely and vertically to the rail guide, which is provided by a helical rail guide arise naturally. Device according to one of the Claims 1 or 2 , characterized in that the base (49) of the connecting element (46) is equipped laterally outwards with at least one recess (100) and / or elevation, which interacts with a corresponding elevation (50) and / or recess on the upper and / or or lower end of the at least one column (48) a clamp connection system with a connecting element (46) above and/or below, so that a releasable connection is provided in order to be able to guide toy train tracks (16, 20, 47) one above the other. Device according to one of the Claims 1 or 2 , characterized in that the base of the connecting element (55) is equipped laterally in the direction of the rail guide with at least one depression (56) and / or elevation, which interacts with a corresponding elevation and / or depression at the upper and / or lower end of the At least one column (54) includes a clamp connection system with a connecting element (55) above and/or below, so that a releasable connection is provided in order to be able to guide toy train tracks one above the other. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) comprises at least one support surface (70, 71) which is positioned such that one end of a toy train track (16, 20 , 47) can be placed. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58) has an offset (82) at its upper and lower ends, so that the Column (2, 31; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58) connected to the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) is arranged offset further outwards from the center of the track. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base of the connecting element (62) is equipped with at least one screw connection (61) at the top and/or bottom, which is connected to a correspondingly matching screw connection (60) at the top and/or bottom At the end of the at least one column (58) a connection system is formed with a connecting element above and/or below, so that a releasable connection is provided in order to be able to guide toy train tracks one above the other. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base of the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) is connected to the upper and/or lower end of the at least one column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48 ; 52; 54; 58) a magnetic connection is made, so that a releasable connection is provided in order to be able to guide toy train tracks one above the other. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58) is equipped to be telescopic in order to be able to adjust a certain incline of the rail guide. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the length of the rail section (L1) of the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) is 19 to 21 mm long, and / or that the length is one seventh of a curved element Toy train track (16, 20, 47). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shape of the at least one column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58) is such that it is a clamping module, having half the height (H1) of a terminal block (14), for the interaction of which it is intended, can be used. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the entire width of the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) including the base (7; 49; 63) together with the geometry of the attached at least one column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58) does not exceed a total width of 65 mm. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sum of the length (L2) of the column (2, 31, 90; 59) and the sum of the height (H4) of the base (7; 63) is between 65 mm and 90 mm lies. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plane in which the rail piece (3) lies and the plane in which the underside (10) lies are inclined to one another. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58) has at least one longitudinal slot (80) directed in and/or against the direction of travel, in which a band (81) can be inserted. Connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62), designed to interact with a toy train track (16, 20, 47) and a column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58), that Connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) comprising a bottom (10), the same set up for the interaction of the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) with one or more terminal blocks (14), further comprising a Rail piece (3) arranged on the top of the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62); a base (7; 49; 63) attached to the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) for releasable interaction upwards and/or downwards with the column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58); wherein the base (7) of the connecting element (1) is equipped with at least one depression (8, 9; 44; 56) and / or an elevation (40) at the top and bottom, so that in cooperation with a corresponding elevation (11 , 32; 38, 39; 50; 59) and / or recess (42, 43) at the upper and / or lower end of the at least one column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58) a clamp connection can be entered into with a connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) located above and/or below; wherein the connection between the recess (8) and/or elevation (11, 32) between the base (7) of the connecting element (1) and the at least one column (2, 31) has a clearance with which angle differences between 3° and 15 ° can be adjusted longitudinally, transversely and vertically to the rail guide. Column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58), set up to interact with a connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62), this comprising a bottom (10), the same set up for Interaction of the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) with one or more clamping modules (14), this further comprising a rail piece (3) arranged on the top of the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) for cooperation the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) with one or more toy train tracks (16, 20, 47), this further comprising a base (7; 49) attached to the connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62); 63) for releasable interaction upwards and/or downwards with the column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58); wherein the base (7) of the connecting element (1) is equipped with at least one depression (8, 9; 44; 56) and / or an elevation (40) at the top and bottom, so that in cooperation with a corresponding elevation (11 , 32; 38, 39; 50; 59) and / or recess (42, 43) at the upper and / or lower end of the at least one column (2, 31, 90; 35, 36; 48; 52; 54; 58) a clamp connection can be entered into with a connecting element (1; 37; 46; 55; 62) located above and/or below; wherein the connection between the recess (8) and/or elevation (11, 32) between the base (7) of the connecting element (1) and the at least one column (2, 31) has a clearance with which angle differences between 3° and 15 ° can be adjusted longitudinally, transversely and vertically to the rail guide.

Images