US20070057080A1

US20070057080A1 - Toy object and slot track system

Info

Publication number: US20070057080A1
Application number: US11/530,479
Authority: US
Inventors: Danny Ngai
Original assignee: Artin Industrial Co Ltd
Current assignee: Artin Industrial Co Ltd
Priority date: 2005-09-12
Filing date: 2006-09-11
Publication date: 2007-03-15
Also published as: WO2007031016A1; EP1933963A1; EP1933963A4

Abstract

A toy object and slot track system includes a plurality of track segments each having a retaining slot provided thereon and defining a slotted track surface. The track segments include straight, curved and twisted track segments connectable to form straight and curved tracks with slotted track surfaces facing upwards and/or downwards and twisted tracks, and concave/convex track segments connectable to form loop-shaped tracks with concave/convex slotted track surfaces facing inwards and/or outwards. The system includes at least one toy object having first and second protruding pins for slidable engagement along the retaining slot. At least one of the first and second protruding pins has a free end portion retainable within the retaining slot such that the toy object can move along the tracks without falling off under gravitational pulling force.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/715,570 filed Sep. 12, 2005 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/750,337 filed Dec. 15, 2005, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a game and, in particular, to a toy object and slot track system including a plurality of track segments with slotted track surfaces facing different directions whereby toy objects, such as slot cars, are adapted to move along the track in different orientations relative to the floor without falling off the track.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Slot cars are electric toy cars that fit into a slot track and are controlled by the players through hand-held controllers. The slot track is assembled from a number of track segments each having one or more guide slots for receiving a guide pin extending from the underside of each slot car and guiding each slot car along the track. The slot cars are powered through a pair of electric conductors provided on the track. The slot track is usually designed to be assembled and laid on the floor such that the slot cars run along the slot track in a generally upright position.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,342,048 discloses a wall-mounting slot track system. The slot track system includes a plurality of substrates vertically hung on a wall. A slot track extends across each substrate to form a continuous path perpendicular to the floor. Slot cars are retained on the slot track by guide pins extending from the underside of the slot cars.
However, this wall-mounting slot track system lacks versatility and play value. Even though different wall-mount slot track systems could be connected to form a bigger layout, the track segments of the wall-mounting slot track system are basically fixed on a number of substrates and the layout itself could not be defined by players. The players are not able to design and assemble their own unique and favorite racing tracks before each racing game.
The track segments of this type of wall-mounting slot track system are mounted on vertical substrates in such a manner that the track segments are all vertically oriented with slotted track surfaces facing only in one direction, i.e. away from the wall.
Since the slot cars are constantly kept in a sideway position, the guide pins of the slot cars as well as the slots of the track are subject to damages due to friction and action of the slot cars.
The above description of the background is provided to aid in understanding the invention, but is not admitted to describe or constitute pertinent prior art to the invention, or consider the cited document as material to the patentability of the claims of the present application.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toy object and slot track system including a plurality of track segments each having a retaining slot provided thereon and defining a slotted track surface. The plurality of track segments includes straight and curved track segments connectable to form straight and curved tracks with slotted track surfaces facing upwards and/or downwards, and concave/convex track segments connectable to form at least one loop-shaped track with concave/convex slotted track surfaces facing inwards and/or outwards. The system may optionally include one toy object having first and second protruding pins receivable in and slidable along the retaining slot. At least one of the first and second protruding pins of the optional toy object has a free end portion retainable within the retaining slot.
The track segments can be connectable to form tracks including but are not limited to spiral tracks, barrel-shaped tracks, figure-8 shaped tracks, upwardly inclining U-shaped tracks, and route-reversing loop tracks.
The plurality of track segments may further include route diverging/converging track segments, twisted track segments, and track segments arranged in a back-to-back relationship with slotted track surfaces facing opposite directions.
In an embodiment, each track segment has two retaining slots provided on one surface thereof. In another embodiment, each track segment has at least one continuous retaining slot provided on one surface thereof, and at least one continuous retaining slot provided on the other surface thereof opposite to the one surface.
In one embodiment, the first and second protruding pins extend from an underside of the toy object. In another embodiment, the first and second protruding pins extend from the lateral sides of the toy object respectively.
In an embodiment, each of the first and second protruding pins has a free end portion retainable within the retaining slot.
In one embodiment, the retaining slot and the free end portion are generally T-shaped.
The toy object further includes a motor and a magnet operatively coupled to a pair of conductive rails extending along the retaining slot.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a toy object and route-reversing track system including (a) a first track segment having a first retaining slot provided on an upper surface thereof and a second retaining slot provided on a lower surface thereof, (b) a second track segment having a third retaining slot provided on a concave surface thereof, the second track segment being pivotable between a first position where one end of the third retaining slot is in registration with the first retaining slot and a second position where the other end of the third retaining slot is in registration with the second retaining slot; and (c) a toy object having first and second protruding pins receivable in and slidable along the first, second, and third retaining slots, at least one of the first and second protruding pins having a free end portion retainable within the first, second, and third retaining slots.
The system further includes a weight for biasing the second pivotable track segment in the first position. In an embodiment, the weight takes the form of a container containing a plurality of objects adapted for weight adjustment.
The system further includes a funnel-shaped slot provided at the one end of the third retaining slot, a pair of electrical contacts provided at the other end of the third retaining slot, and a pair of conductive rails electrically coupled to the pair of electrical contacts and extending along the third retaining slot except for the funnel-shaped slot, wherein the pair of electrical contacts is electrically coupled to a pair of conductive rails provided along the first retaining slot when the second track segment is in the second position.
Although the invention is shown and described with respect to certain embodiments, it is obvious that equivalents and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of the specification. The present invention includes all such equivalents and modifications, and is limited only by the scope of the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Specific embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:
FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view of a known track segment and a front view of a toy vehicle;
FIG. 1 a is a cross sectional view of a track segment similar to the track segment of FIG. 1 except that it has non-retaining slots;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a 1-lane straight track segment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a 1-lane curved track segment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the 1-lane curved track segment of FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a 1-lane concave track segment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 6 is another perspective view of the 1-lane concave track segment of FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is a bottom view of the 1-lane concave track segment of FIG. 5;
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a 1-lane convex track segment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 8 b and 8 c are perspective views of a 1-lane convex track segment in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the 1-lane convex track segment of FIG. 8;
FIG. 10 is a perspective view from the back of the 1-lane convex track segment of FIG. 8;
FIG. 11 is a bottom plan view of the 1-lane convex track segment of FIG. 8;
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a 2-lane straight track segment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a 2-lane concave track segment having a concave track surface in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a 2-lane convex track segment having a convex track surface in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 14 a is a perspective view of a 2-lane convex track segment having a convex track surface in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a twisted track segment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 15A shows the combination of two twisted track segments of FIG. 15;
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a twisted track segment in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 16A shows the combination of two twisted track segments of FIG. 16;
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a track segment having two opposite slotted track surfaces in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a track segment having two opposite outwardly inclined track surfaces in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a Y-track segment for route diverging in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 19A and 19B are explanatory diagrams of a flip mechanism of the route diverging Y-track segment of FIG. 19;
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a Y-track segment for route converging in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the combination of the two Y-track segments of FIGS. 19 and 20;
FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram of a lap counter in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 23 shows the underside of a slot car in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 24 shows the underside of a second slot car;
FIGS. 25-28 show different embodiments of a rear guide pin of a toy slot car;
FIGS. 25 b-28 b show different embodiments of a front guide pin of a toy slot car;
FIG. 29 is a cross sectional view of a first embodiment of a track segment;
FIG. 30 is a cross sectional view of a second embodiment of a track segment;
FIG. 31 is a cross sectional view of a third embodiment of a track segment;
FIG. 32 is a cross sectional view of a known toy object slot track;
FIG. 33 is a cross sectional view of a toy object slot track in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 34 is a cross sectional view of a toy object slot track in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 35-37 show end-to-end connection of two straight track segments;
FIG. 38 is a perspective view of a spiral track assembled from a selected combination of track segments of the present invention;
FIG. 39 is a top plan view of the spiral track of FIG. 38;
FIG. 38 a is a perspective view of the spiral track of FIG. 38 with slight modification;
FIG. 39 a is a top plan view of the spiral track of FIG. 38 a;
FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a spiral track in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 41 is a top plan view of the spiral track of FIG. 40;
FIG. 40 a is a perspective view of the spiral track of FIG. 40 with slight modification;
FIG. 41 a is a top plan view of the spiral track of FIG. 40 a;
FIG. 42 is vertical spiral 1-lane track assembled from a plurality of concave 1-lane track segments;
FIG. 43 is a vertical spiral 1-lane track assembled from a plurality of convex 1-lane track segments;
FIG. 44 is a 2-ring barrel-shaped track assembled from a plurality of convex 1-lane track segments;
FIG. 45 is an enlarged view of the 2-ring barrel track of FIG. 44 showing that the 2 rings are fastened together by clips;
FIG. 46 is perspective view of a clip for securing track segments in a barrel-shaped track;
FIG. 47 shows a route-reversing loop track in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 48 is a perspective view of a C-clip for securing two track segments in a back-to-back relationship;
FIG. 49 shows the application of the C-clip of FIG. 48 on two back-to-back curved track segments;
FIGS. 50 and 51 are perspective views of a track support member of a 1-lane track;
FIGS. 50 a and 51 a are perspective views of a track support member of a 2-lane track;
FIG. 52 shows a track segment being supported on a track support member of FIGS. 50 and 51;
FIG. 53 is a perspective view of another track support in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 54 shows the engagement of a track segment with a track support;
FIG. 55 is a perspective view of another track support in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 56 is a perspective view of an upright figure-8 shaped track assembled from a selected combination of track segments;
FIG. 56A is a side view of the upright figure-8 shaped track of FIG. 56;
FIG. 56B is a side view of a variation of the upright figure-8 shaped track of FIG. 56;
FIG. 57 is a perspective view of another upright figure-8 shaped track assembled from a selected combination of track segments of the present invention;
FIG. 57A is a side view of the upright figure-8 shaped track of FIG. 57;
FIG. 58 is a perspective view of a vertical double figure-8 shaped track assembled from a selected combination of track segments of the present invention;
FIG. 58A is a side view of the vertical double figure-8 shaped track of FIG. 58;
FIG. 59 is a perspective view of a vertical triple figure-8 shaped track assembled from a selected combination of track segments of the present invention;
FIG. 59A is a side view of the vertical triple figure-8 shaped track of FIG. 59;
FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a U-shaped track assembled from a selected combination of track segments of the present invention;
FIGS. 61, 61A and 61B show a route-reversing tower in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 62 is a perspective view of a route-reversing tower in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 62A-62F show the sequence of reversing the route of a slot car using the route-reversing tower of FIG. 62;
FIG. 63 is a perspective view of a 1-lane route-reversing tower in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 64 is a side view of the 1-lane route-reversing tower of FIG. 63;
FIGS. 65 and 65A show a weight of the route-reversing tower of FIG. 63;
FIG. 66 is a perspective view of a 2-lane route-reversing tower in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 67 is a side view of the 2-lane route-reversing tower of FIG. 66;
FIG. 68 shows another perspective view of the 2-lane route-reversing tower of FIG. 66;
FIG. 69 is a 1-lane route-reversing tower in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGS. 70 and 71 show the electrical brushes at one end of a concave track segment of a route-reversing tower;
FIG. 72 is a perspective view of a double 1-lane route-reversing tower in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 73 is another perspective view of the double 1-lane route-reversing tower of FIG. 72;
FIG. 74 is top plan view of the double 1-lane route-reversing tower of FIG. 72;
FIGS. 75 and 76 are perspective views of a double 1-lane route-reversing tower in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 77 is a top plane view of the double 1-lane route-reversing tower of FIG. 75;
FIG. 78 is an enlarged view of the metallic contact plates;
FIG. 79 is a top view of an assembled toy object slot track according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 80 is a top view of an assembled toy object slot track according to another embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 81 is a top view of an assembled toy object slot track according to yet another embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 82 is a front view of a package containing toy vehicles and slot track segments of the present invention; and
FIG. 83 is an enlarged view a TRY ME feature of the package of FIG. 82.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference will now be made in detail to a preferred embodiment of the invention, examples of which are also provided in the following description. Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail, although it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that some features that are not particularly important to an understanding of the invention may not be shown for the sake of clarity.
Furthermore, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments described below and that various changes and modifications thereof may be effected by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. For example, elements and/or features of different illustrative embodiments may be combined with each other and/or substituted for each other within the scope of this disclosure and appended claims.
In addition, improvements and modifications which may become apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art after reading this disclosure, the drawings, and the appended claims are deemed within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
The following description of the preferred embodiments of the invention are intended to be read in connection with the foregoing drawings and are to be considered a portion of the entire written description of this invention. As used herein, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “upward”, “downward”, “sideward”, “sideway”, “top”, “bottom”, “upright” and “upside down” as well as adjective and adverb derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally”, “vertically”, “upwardly”, “downwardly”, etc.) refer to the orientation of the structure of the invention relative to the floor in 3-dimensional spatial reference as it is illustrated in the drawings.
FIG. 1 shows a toy slot car 1 riding on a known slot track 2 of a slot car racing game. The slot car 1 is powered through a pair of conductive rails 3 and corresponding electrical brushes 4. The slot car 1 is retained on the track 2 by a guide pin 5 engaging with a T-shaped slot or T-slot 6. The guide pin 5 has an enlarged head 7 receivable within an enlarged portion of the T-slot 6 such that the slot car 1 can be retained along the track 2. Some track segments of the track 2 may have non-retaining slots 6′ as shown in FIG. 1 a.
As used herein, the term “track” means a plurality of track segments connected together in an end-to-end relationship along which a toy object moves. The term “straight track” means a track formed by a plurality of straight track segments. The term “curved track” means a track formed by at least one curved track segment.
As used herein, the term “concave track segment” means a track segment having a guide slot or guide slots provided on a concave surface thereof, and the term “convex track segment” means a track segment having a guide slot or guide slots provided on a convex surface thereof.
As used herein, the term “loop-shaped track” means a track having at least one loop formed by a plurality of concave/convex track segments.
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a 1-lane straight track segment 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. A plurality of straight track segments 10 can be connected end-to-end to form a straight track. A continuous retaining T-slot 14 is provided at the center of the upper track surface to define an upper slotted track surface 12. A pair of conductive rails can be received respectively in a pair of longitudinally extending channels 16, 18 provided on the upper track surface 12 parallel to the T-slot 14. The T-slot 14 is adapted to receive two T-shaped guide pins 20, 22 protruding outwardly from the underside of a slot car 28, 28′, as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.
One T-shaped guide pin 20 is disposed near the front wheels 30 at the front of the slot car 28, 28′, and the other T-shaped guide pin 22 is disposed near the rear wheels 32 at the rear of the slot car 28, 28′. Each T-shaped guide pin 20, 22 has a free end portion provided with an enlarged head slidable along and retainable within the T-slot 14. The T-shaped guide pins 20, 22 may be made of plastic, fiberglass, or other suitable material.
The front T-shaped guide pin 20 is used to retain the slot car 28, 28′ on a track so that it will not fall off the track even though it is not in an upright position. It is also used to guide the direction of movement of the slot car 28, 28′. The rear T-shaped guide pin 22 is used to assist the slot car to move smoothly especially when it is running on convex track segments or upside down. Since the slot car 28, 28′ is a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, it could only move along the track while its rear wheels are in contact with the track surfaces. The rear T-shaped guide pin 22 could therefore ensure that the rear wheels are in contact with the track surfaces at any time. The rear T-shaped guide pin 22 is also used to stabilize the slot car 28, 28′ on the track.
Although it has been shown and described that the two guide pins 20, 22 are T-shaped, it is appreciated by one skilled in the art that only one guide pin, preferably the front guide pin 20, is T-shaped and that the other guide pin can be a conventional straight guide pin.
A high power magnet 36 (e.g. alloy magnet) is provided at the underside of the slot car 28, 28′ at a central portion thereof. The magnet 36 is adapted to interact with the pair of metallic conductive rails and is employed to further retain the slot car 28, 28′ on the track while the slot car 28, 28′ is traveling on the track in different orientations relative to the floor.
FIGS. 3 and 4 show a 1-lane curved track segment 40 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. It is understood that a plurality of curved track segments 40 can be connected end-to-end to form a curved track or straight track to form a customized layout.
As best illustrated in FIG. 4, the T-slot extends through the upper and lower surfaces of the track segment which is reinforced by a plurality of spaced apart reinforcing members 34.
FIGS. 5-7 are perspective views of a 1-lane concave track segment 50 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The 1-lane concave track segment 50 has a concave track surface 52. A T-shaped retaining slot 54 is provided on the concave track surface 52 of the concave track segment 50.
A plurality of concave track segments 50 can be assembled into loop-shaped tracks of different configurations. The loop-shaped tracks include but are not limited to vertical and horizontal spiral tracks, vertical and horizontal loop tracks, double and multiple loop tracks, figure-8 shaped tracks, and barrel-shaped tracks, details of which will be described later.
When these concave track segments 50 are assembled into loop, spiral or barrel tracks, the slotted track surfaces 52 generally face inward. Slot cars 28, 28′ are adapted to move along the inwardly facing slotted track surfaces 52 without falling off the track.
FIGS. 8-11 are perspective views of a 1-lane convex track segment in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The 1-lane convex track segment 60 has a convex track surface 62. A T-shaped retaining slot 64 is provided on the convex track surface 62 of the convex track segment 60.
A plurality of convex track segments 60 can be assembled into loop-shaped tracks of different configurations. The loop-shaped tracks include but are not limited to vertical and horizontal spiral tracks, vertical and horizontal loop tracks, double and multiple loop tracks, route-reversing loop tracks, figure-8 shaped tracks, and barrel-shaped tracks, details of which will be described later.
When these convex track segments 60 are assembled into loop, spiral or barrel tracks, the slotted track surfaces 62 generally face outward. Slot cars 28, 28′ are adapted to move along the outwardly facing slotted track surfaces 62 without falling off the track.
Although it has been shown and described that the track segment has only one retaining guide slot provided on one surface thereon, it is appreciated that the track segment may have two retaining guide slots provided on one surface thereof.
FIGS. 8 b and 8 c are perspective views of a 1-lane convex track segment in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Similarly, the 1-lane convex track segment 60 has a convex track surface 62. A T-shaped retaining slot 64 is provided on the convex track surface 62 of the convex track segment 60. The difference is that one end of the convex track segment 60 has bulging track surfaces 63. These bulging track surfaces 63 improve the engagement of the slot car 28, 28′ with the convex track segment 60 and facilitate smooth passing of the slot car 28, 28′ from one convex track segment 60 to the adjacent convex track segment 60.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a 2-lane straight track segment 130 according to an embodiment of the present invention. A pair of retaining guide slots 132 is provided on the track segment 130. A plurality of straight track segments 130 can be assembled into straight tracks with slotted track surfaces 134 facing either upward, downward, sideward, or at any angles relative to the floor depending on the layout of the track. If the slotted track surface 134 is facing upward, the slot car runs upright along the track. If the slotted track surface 134 is facing sideward, the slot car runs sideway along the track. If the slotted track surface 134 is facing downward, as shown in FIG. 12, the slot car runs upside down along the track.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a concave track segment 140 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The concave track segment 140 has a concave track surface 142. A pair of retaining guide slots 144 is provided on the concave track surface 142.
Similar to 1-lane concave track segment 50, a plurality of concave track segments 50, 140 can be assembled into tracks of different configurations. For example, a number of these 1-lane or 2-lane concave track segments 50, 140 can be assembled into a spiral track as shown in FIGS. 38 and 39, a U-shaped track as shown in FIG. 60, or loop tracks as shown in FIGS. 56-59. Details of these tracks will be described later.
Although it has been shown in the present embodiment that the guide slots 144 are provided on the concave track surface 142 of the track segment 140, it is appreciated that guide slots may also be provided on the opposite convex surface 146 of the track segment 140.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a 2-lane convex track segment 150 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The convex track segment 150 has a convex track surface 152. A pair of guide slots 154 is provided on the convex track surface 152.
Similar to 1-lane convex track segment 60, a plurality of convex track segments 150 can be assembled into tracks of different configurations. For example, a number of the 1-lane or 2-lane convex track segments 60, 150 can be assembled into a spiral track as shown in FIGS. 40 and 41, or loop tracks as shown in FIGS. 56-59.
Although it has been shown in the present embodiment that the guide slots 154 are provided on the convex track surface 152 of the track segment 150, it is appreciated that guide slots may also be provided on the opposite concave surface 156 of the track segment 150.
FIG. 14 a is a perspective view of a 2-lane convex track segment 150 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Similarly, the convex track segment 150 has a convex track surface 152. A pair of guide slots 154 is provided on the convex track surface 152. The difference is that one end of the convex track segment 150 has bulging track surfaces 153. These bulging track surfaces 153 improve the engagement of the slot car 28, 28′ with the convex track segment 150 and facilitate smooth passing of the slot car 28, 28′ from one convex track segment 150 to the adjacent convex track segment 150.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a left-twist track segment 160 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. This left-twist track segment has a twisted track surface 162 that allows a slot car 28, 28′ to make a 90° twist to the left while advancing along the guide slot 166 in the direction indicated by the arrow. According to the present embodiment, the left-twist track segment 160 allows a slot car 28, 28′ to make a 90° twist to the left from an upright position to a sideway position.
FIG. 15A shows the combination of two left-twist track segments 160 of FIG. 15. The combined twisted track segment 164 allows a slot car 28, 28′ to make a 180° twist from an upright position to an upside down position as it advances in the direction shown by the arrow.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a right-twist track segment 170 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. This right-twist track segment 170 has a twisted track surface 172 that allows a slot car 28, 28′ to make a 90° twist to the right while advancing along the guide slot 176 in the direction indicated by the arrow. According to the present embodiment, the right-twist track segment 170 allows a slot car 28, 28′ to make a 90° twist to the right from an upright position to a sideway position.
FIG. 16A shows the combination of two right-twist track segments 170 of FIG. 16. The combined twisted track segment 174 allows a slot car 28, 28′ to make a 180° twist from an upright position to an upside down position as it advances in the direction shown by the arrow.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a double-sided track segment 180 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The double-sided track segment 180 has opposite slotted track surfaces 182, 184. This allows slot cars 28, 28′ to move along the guide slots 186 provided on the opposite track surfaces 182, 184 of the track 180 respectively.
Although it has been shown that the double-sided track segment 180 is a straight track segment, it is appreciated that it can be a concave/concave track segment having a concave track surface and an opposite convex track surface.
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a double-sided track segment 190 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The double-sided track segment 190 has opposite outwardly inclined track surfaces 192, 194. This double-sided track segment 90 is adapted to diverge or converge the route of a track.
FIG. 19 shows a route diverging Y-track segment 270 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The Y-track segment 270 has a 1-lane track section 272 and a 2-lane track section 274. A flip mechanism 276 is provided at the route diverging point at the junction of the 1-lane track section and the 2-lane track section. The flip mechanism 276 allows toy vehicles to enter the two lanes on the 2-lane track section alternately. For example, a first toy vehicle traveling along the 1-lane track section in the direction indicated by the arrow can enter one lane of the 2-lane track section, as illustrated in FIG. 19A. As the first toy vehicle passes through the route diverging point, its guide pin moves the flip 277 from one position to another position, as illustrated in FIG. 19B, such that a second toy vehicle traveling behind the first toy vehicle can enter the other lane of the 2-lane track section.
FIG. 20 shows a route converging Y-track segment 280 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The Y-track segment 280 has a 2-lane track section 282 and a 1-lane track section 284. This allows a toy vehicle to exit from one lane of the 2-lane track section and enter the 1-lane track section. Two toy vehicles traveling along two different lanes of the 2-lane track section may collide at the junction of the 2-lane track section and the 1-lane track section.
FIG. 21 shows the two Y- track segments 270, 280 of FIGS. 19 and 20 being connected end-to-end.
FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram of lap counters 290, 292 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
The slot track of the present invention can be provided with two lap counters 290, 292 counting the number of laps of two slot cars 28, 28′ traveling on the same lane. This is realized by a knob or projection 24, 26 (FIGS. 23 and 24) provided on the chassis of each of the slot cars 28, 28′ and a trigger 294, 296 coupled to each lap counter 290, 292 and adapted to identify the slot cars 28, 28′ passing through the lap counters 290, 292.
When slot car 28 passes lap counter 290, the projection 24 projecting from the right side of the slot car 28 engages trigger 294 of lap counter 290 and counts the number of lap of the slot car 28. When slot car 28′ on the same lane passes lap counter 292, the projection 26 projecting from the left side of the slot car 28′ engages trigger 296 of lap counter 292 and counts the number of lap of the slot car 28′. Accordingly, lap counter 290 only counts the number of laps of slot car 28, and lap counter 92 only counts the number of laps of slot car 28′.
The two slot cars 28, 28′ are adapted to run along a 1-lane track assembled from a selected combination of straight track segments 10, curved track segments 40, concave track segments 50, and convex track segments 60.
When two players are playing the game, two slot cars 28, 28′ will be traveling on the same lane. Differing from slot car racing on a conventional 2-lane slot track, the two slot cars 28, 28′ can be chasing each other on a 1-lane slot track by using a lane changing system disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/023,555, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
By using this lane changing system, two slot cars independently controlled by two players can run on the same lane. This is different from conventional toy vehicle racing games with a 2-lane track which does not allow two toy vehicles racing on different lanes to run on the same lane due to interference. With the lane changing system and the Y-tracks described hereinbefore, flexibility and play value will be drastically increased as the entire track can be built from 1-lane track segments and two slot cars can be chasing and even passing each other.
FIGS. 25-28 show four different configurations of the enlarged head integrally provided at the free end portion of the guide pin, preferably the rear guide pin 22, protruding from the underside of the slot car 28, 28′.
FIG. 25 shows a guide pin 21 with an enlarged circular head 21 a having planar surfaces. FIG. 26 shows a guide pin 23 with an enlarged circular head 23 a similar to the enlarged head 21 a of FIG. 25 but having a smaller diameter. FIG. 27 shows a guide pin 25 with an enlarged circular head 25 a having slanted surfaces. FIG. 28 shows a guide pin 27 with an enlarged circular head 27 a having curved surfaces. These enlarged circular heads 21 a, 23 a, 25 a, 27 a are adapted to be retained within the guide slots of the track segments of the present invention.
FIGS. 25 b-28 b show four different configurations of the enlarged head integrally provided at the free end portion of the guide pin, preferably the front guide pin 20, protruding from the underside of the slot car 28, 28′.
FIGS. 29-31 show three different structural designs of the track segments of the present invention. The track segments of the present invention are preferably made of plastic by conventional injection molding processes.
FIG. 29 shows a three-piece molded track 460 where side core molds are needed. The three-piece molded track 460 includes an inner piece 462, a central piece 464 and an outer piece 466.
FIG. 30 shows a one-piece slot track 470 molded with secondary operation. The one-piece molded track 470 may be routed, milled or cut to form a slot 472 with a smaller molded section, or a slot 474 with a larger molded section.
FIG. 31 shows a three-piece molded track 480. The three-piece molded track includes an inner piece 482, a central piece 484, and an outer piece 486. Two to five stringers 488 are employed to connect the inner, central, and outer pieces 482, 484, 486 together.
The slot track of the present invention involves a predetermined combination of the use of material and shape of the guide pins, the power and size of the motor and the magnet, the weight of the slot car, the layout of the track, as well as the power of the transformer in order to produce a slot track system with track segments arranged in different orientations relative to the floor and slot cars running along the track in different directions without falling off the track under the influence of gravity.
To add more play value, lighting/illuminating effects on slot cars may be produced and revealed during a game in the dark. The body and/or chassis of the slot cars may be illuminated in different colors. The front of the slot cars may be installed with headlights.
Although a toy slot car has been described as the toy object riding on the slot track of the present invention, it is appreciated that any toy objects of any shapes and configurations may ride on the slot track of the present invention.
FIG. 32 shows a toy object 610, such as a toy vehicle, adapted to move along a slot track 612 according to a known toy vehicle game. The toy object 610 is powered in a conventional manner through a pair of conductive rails 614 and corresponding brushes 615. The conductive rails 614 are embedded on the track surfaces 622. The brushes 615 extend downwardly from the underside of the toy object 610. The toy object 610 is retained on the track 612 by a guide pin 616 engageable with a retaining T-slot 618. The guide pin 616 has an enlarged head 620 receivable within an enlarged portion of the T-slot 618 such that the toy object 610 can be retained on the track 612.
Wheels (not shown) may be provided on the toy object 610 such that it can be supported on and moved along the track 612.
The slot track 612 can be assembled from a plurality of track segments with slotted track surfaces 622 facing different directions and toy objects 610 moving along the track 612 in different orientations relative to the floor.
FIG. 33 is a cross sectional view of a toy object 710 riding on a slot track 712 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The toy object 710, such as a toy vehicle, is adapted to move along the slot track 712. The toy object 710 is powered in a conventional manner through a pair of conductive rails 714 and corresponding brushes 715. The conductive rails 714 are provided on opposite inner surfaces of a slot 718 respectively. The brushes 715 extend outwardly from the opposite sides of the object 710 respectively.
The toy object 710 is partially disposed within the slot 718 and retained on the track 712 by a pair of guide pins 716 extending outwardly from the lateral sides of the toy object 710 respectively. The pair of guide pins 716 is adapted to engage with and move along oppositely facing channels 728 defined by the slot 718 of the track 712 such that the toy object 710 can be guided and retained on the track 712.
Lateral movement of the object 710 relative to the track 712 can be limited by the guide pins 716. Vertical outward movement of the toy object 710 relative to the track 712 can be limited by the two oppositely facing upper flanges 724.
Wheels (not shown) may be provided on the toy object 710 such that it may be supported on and moved along the track 712.
The slot track 712 can be assembled from a plurality of track segments with slotted track surfaces 722 facing different directions and toy objects 710 moving along the track 712 in different orientations relative to the floor without falling off the track 712 due to gravity.
This slot track 712 is cost effective in mass production as no special equipment/manufacturing technology are required. In addition, the manufacturer could use different materials on different parts of the track. For example, the middle track member 750 could be transparent.
FIG. 34 is a cross sectional view of a toy object 810 riding on a slot track 812 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The toy object 810, such as a toy vehicle, is adapted to move along a slot track 812 which is similar to a conventional slot track of a slot car racing game. The toy object 810 is powered in a conventional manner through a pair of conductive rails 814 and corresponding brushes 815. The conductive rails 814 are embedded on the track surfaces 822 respectively. The brushes 815 extend downwardly from the underside of the toy object 810. The toy object 810 is guided along the track 812 by a guide pin 816 receivable within a slot 818.
An additional pair of guide pins 826 extends outwardly from lateral sides of the toy object 810. The additional pair of guide pins 826 is engageable with and slidable along oppositely facing channels 828 defined by the track surfaces 822, walls 830, and upper flanges 832.
Lateral and vertical outward movements of the object 810 relative to the track 812 can be limited by the guide pins 816, 826.
Wheels (not shown) may be provided on the toy object 810 such that it may be supported on and moved along the track 812.
Again, the slot track 812 can be assembled from a plurality of track segments with slotted track surfaces 822 facing different directions and toy objects 810 moving along the track 812 in different orientations relative to the floor without falling off the track 812 due to gravity.
This slot track 812 is compatible with existing slot tracks because the slot track 812 can combine with conventional slot tracks without additional cost. The mechanism of the slot track 812 could provide great flexibility in track design with relatively low development cost.
FIGS. 35-37 show the end-to-end connection of the track segments of the present invention. For illustration purposes, two straight track segments 130 are shown each having longitudinally extending alignment projections 230 and receptacles 232 on opposite ends thereof. With the use of these alignment projections 230 and receptacles 232, the track segments 130 can be connected together end-to-end as shown in FIG. 36. Releasable hooks 234 are employed to prevent accidental disconnection and define release buttons 236 for disengagement of the track segments by pressing the two buttons 236 downward simultaneously as indicated by the two arrows in FIG. 37.
FIGS. 38 and 39 are perspective and top plan views respectively of a vertical spiral track 100 assembled from a selected combination of straight 130, concave 140, left-twist 160 and right-twist 170 track segments disclosed herein.
The vertical spiral track 100 is assembled from a number of vertically oriented concave track segments 140. According to the present embodiment, slot cars 28, 28′ are adapted to enter the spiral track 100 upright through an upper straight track segment 130 as shown by the arrow, make a 90° twist to the right through a right-twist track segment 170, move sideway along the inner surfaces of the spiral track assembly, twist 90° back to the upright position through a left-twist track segment 160, and finally exit the spiral track 100 upright through a lower straight track segment 130, as indicated by the arrow.
FIGS. 38 a and 39 a are perspective and top plan views respectively of a vertical spiral track 100′ similar to the vertical spiral track 100 of FIGS. 38 and 39, except that the left-twist 160 and the right-twist 170 track segment are removed from the track.
FIGS. 40 and 41 are perspective and top plan views respectively of another spiral shaped track 100″ assembled from a selected combination of straight 130, convex 150, left-twist 160 and right-twist 170 track segments disclosed herein.
The vertical spiral track 100″ is assembled from a number of vertically oriented straight track segments 130 and convex track segments 150. According to the present embodiment, slot cars 28, 28′ are adapted to enter the spiral track 100″ upright through an upper straight track segment 130 as shown by the arrow, make a 90° twist to the left through a left-twist track segment 160, move sideway along the outer surfaces of the spiral track, twist 90° to the right and back to the upright position through a right-twist track segment 170, and finally exit the spiral track 100″ upright through a lower straight track segment 130.
FIGS. 40 a and 41 a are perspective and top plan views respectively of a spiral shaped track 100′″ similar to the spiral track 100″, except that the left-twist 160 and the right-twist 170 track segment are removed from the track.
FIG. 42 is a vertical 1-lane spiral track 200 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The vertical 1-lane spiral track 200 can be assembled from a plurality of 1-lane concave track segments 50 being held in position by a plurality of upright stands 210.
According to the illustrated embodiment, slot cars 28, 28′ traveling upright from the top of the spiral track 200 may make a twist to the right through a number of straight track segments 10, move sideway along the inner slotted track surfaces 52 of the concave track segments 50, twist to the left through a number of straight track segments 10, and finally exit from the bottom of the spiral track 200.
Although it is described that the spiral track 200 extends vertically upwards and slot cars 28, 28′ enter the spiral track 200 from the top and move downwards, it is understood that the spiral track 200 can be disposed in any orientations relative to the floor and the slot cars 28, 28′ may enter the spiral track 200 from either end of the spiral track 200.
FIG. 43 is a vertical 1-lane spiral track 250 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The vertical 1-lane spiral track 250 is assembled from a plurality of 1-lane convex track segments 60 being held in position by a plurality of upright stands 252.
According to the illustrated embodiment, slot cars 28, 28′ may enter the spiral track 250 sideway through a concave track segment 50, move sideway along the outer slotted track surfaces 62 of the convex track segments 60, and finally exit the spiral track 250 sideway through a straight track segment 10.
Although it is described that the spiral track 250 extends vertically upwards and slot cars 28, 28′ enter the spiral track 250 from the top and run downwards, it is understood that the spiral track 250 can be disposed in any orientations relative to the floor and the slot cars 28, 28′ may enter the spiral track 250 from either end of the spiral track 250.
FIG. 44 is a 2-ring barrel-shaped track 300 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The 2-ring barrel-shaped track 300 is assembled from a plurality of 1-lane convex track segments 60. The barrel track 300 is similar to the spiral track 250 of FIG. 43 except that the convex track segments 60 are held side-by-side together by a plurality of clips 310 shown in FIG. 46.
FIG. 45 is an enlarged view of the 2-ring barrel track 300 of FIG. 44 showing that the side-by-side convex track segments 60 are fastened together by the clips 310. The clips 310 also serve to minimize the vibration of the track when slot cars are moving thereon.
Although it has been illustrated that the convex track segments 60 are connected together to form a 2-ring barrel track, it is appreciated that more convex track segments 60 may be added to form a 3-ring barrel track, a 4-ring barrel track, and so on.
FIG. 46 shows the clip 310 for use in assembling the barrel-shaped track 300 of FIG. 44. According to the illustrated embodiment, the clip has a body 312 and three resilient locking legs 314, 316, 318. The first and second legs 314, 316 extend outwardly from one edge of the body 312, and the third leg 318 extends outwardly from the opposite edge of the body 312. The first and second legs 314, 316 are adapted to be inserted into an aperture 320 along one side of a convex track segment 60 of the 2-ring barrel track 300, while the third leg 318 is adapted to be inserted into an aperture 322 along one side of an adjacent convex track segment 60 of the 2-ring barrel track 300.
FIG. 47 shows a 2-lane route-reversing loop-shaped track 400 assembled from a combination of straight track segments 130, concave track segments 140, and convex track segments 150.
A slot car 28, 28′ enters the route-reversing loop-shaped track 400 from an upper straight track segment 130 in an upright position, moves upwards along a concave track segment 140, around the outer slotted track surfaces of a plurality of convex track segments 150 formed in a loop, and finally upside down along lower straight track segments 130. The upper and lower straight track segments 130 are connected together in a back-to-back relationship by C-clips 420 shown in FIG. 48.
The route-reversing loop-shaped track 400 is supported at a distance above the floor by a plurality of upright track support 422.
FIG. 49 shows the application of the C-clip 420 for fastening two curved track segments 135 together in a back-to-back relationship.
FIGS. 50 and 51 are perspective views of a track support 510 of a 1-lane track. The track support 510 includes a supporting member 512 and a pair of resilient clip members 514, 514 extending outwardly from a lower surface of the supporting member 512. A track segment 10, 40, 50, 60, 130, 140, 150 can be held in position by the pair of resilient clip members 514, 514 in such a way that the slotted track surface of the track segment is facing downwards towards the floor.
A pair of upright stands 516, 516, shown by phantom lines, can be connected to the opposite ends of the supporting member 512 respectively thereby supporting the track segment at a suitable distance from the floor.
Such a track support 510 can be used in supporting the 2-ring barrel track 300 as shown in FIG. 44, and the route-reversing loop-shaped track 400 as shown in FIG. 47.
Although it has been described that the track support 510 is adapted to support a track segment in such a manner that the slotted track surface is facing downwards as shown in FIG. 52, it is understood that the pair of resilient clip members 514, 514 can be provided on an upper surface of the supporting member 512 for holding a track segment 130 with slotted track surface facing upwards.
FIGS. 50 a and 51 a are perspective views of a track support 510′ similar to the track support 510 of FIGS. 50 and 51, except that the two resilient clips 514, 514 are wider apart and are adapted for holding a 2-lane track.
FIG. 52 shows a 2-lane track segment 130 being supported by a track support 510′ of FIGS. 50 a and 51 a.
FIG. 53 is a perspective view of another track support 530 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The track support 530 includes an elongated body 532. A first pair of resilient clip members 534, 534 is provided at one end of the body 532 for holding a track segment with slotted track surface facing downwards. A second pair of resilient clip members 536, 536 is provided at the other end of the body 532 for holding another track segment with slotted track surface facing downwards. The elongated body 532 is supported at a distance above the floor by a stand connected with 538 extending outwardly from a lower surface of the elongated body 532.
Although it has been described that the track support 530 is adapted to support track segments in such a manner that the slotted track surfaces are facing downwards, it is understood that the two pairs of resilient clip members 534, 536 can be provided on an upper surface of the elongated body 532 for holding a track segment 130 with slotted track surfaces facing upwards, as illustrated in FIG. 54. It is also understood that the two pairs of resilient clip members 534, 536 can be provided on both the upper and lower surfaces of the elongated body 532 for holding upper track segments with slotted track surfaces facing upwards and lower track segments with slotted track surfaces facing downwards in the opposite direction.
FIG. 55 shows another track support 550 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The track support 550 is adapted to support up to four track segments in a way similar to the track support 530 of FIG. 53.
FIG. 56 is a perspective view of a figure-8 shaped track 1120 assembled from a selected combination of straight 130, concave 140 and convex 150 track segments disclosed herein. The figure-8 shaped track 1120 includes two vertically disposed loops 1122, 1124. The upper loop 1122 is assembled from a plurality of concave track segments 140, and the lower loop 1124 is assembled from a plurality of convex track segments 150. FIG. 56A is a side view of the figure-8 shaped track of FIG. 56. FIG. 56B is a side view of a different variation of the figure-8 shaped track of FIG. 56.
According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 56A, slot cars 28, 28′ are adapted to enter the figure-8 shaped track 1120 from a combination of straight and concave track segments 130, 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 1, move initially around the outer track surfaces of the lower loop 1124 as illustrated by the arrows at position 2 and then around the inner track surfaces of the upper loop 1122 as illustrated by the arrow at position 3, and finally exit the track from another straight track segment 130 as illustrated by the arrow at position 4.
According to the embodiment shown in FIG. 56B, slot cars 28, 28′ enter a figure-8 shaped track 1120′ from a combination of straight and concave track segments 130, 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 1, run initially around the inner track surfaces of the upper loop 1122 as illustrated by the arrow at position 2 and then around the outer track surfaces of the lower loop 1124 as illustrated by the arrows at position 3, and finally exit the track from another straight track segment 130 as illustrated by the arrow at position 4.
Appropriate loop support 1126 and upright support 1128 can be employed to support the track 1120, 1120′ in the desired upright position.
FIGS. 57 and 57A are perspective and side views respectively of a closed figure-8 shaped track 1130 assembled from a selected combination of concave track segments 140 and convex track segments 150 disclosed herein. According to the present embodiment, an upper loop 1132 is assembled from a plurality of convex track segments 150 and a lower loop 1134 is assembled from a plurality of concave track segments 140. The two loops 1132, 1134 of the figure-8 shaped track 1130 are generally vertically disposed. Slot cars 28, 28′ are adapted to move around the inner track surfaces of the lower loop 1134 as illustrated by the arrows at position 1, and around the outer track surfaces of the upper loop 1132 as illustrated by the arrow at position 2.
Appropriate loop support 1136 is applied to support the track 1130 in the upright position.
FIGS. 58 and 58A are perspective and side views respectively of a closed double figure-8 shaped track 1140 assembled from a selected combination of straight 130, concave 140 and convex 150 track segments disclosed herein. The double figure-8 shaped track 1140 is generally vertically disposed.
Starting from straight track segments 130 at position 1, slot cars 28, 28′ are adapted to move up along two concave track segments 140 and around the outer track surfaces of a loop of four convex track segments 150 as illustrated by the arrow at position 2, down and along another concave track segment 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 3, upside down along two convex track segments 150 as illustrated by the arrow at position 4, up another concave track segment 140 and around the outer track surfaces of another loop of four convex track segments 150 as illustrated by the arrow at position 5, and finally down and along two concave track segments 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 6.
Suitable supports 1142 are employed to support the track 1140 in the upright position.
FIGS. 59 and 59A are perspective and side views respectively of a triple figure-8 track 1150 assembled from a selected combination of straight 130, concave 140 and convex 150 track segments disclosed herein. The loops of this triple figure-8 track 1150 are generally vertically disposed.
According to the present embodiment, slot cars 28, 28′ are adapted to enter the track from straight track segments 130 at position 1, move up along two concave track segments 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 2, around the outer track surfaces of a loop of four convex track segments 150 as illustrated by the arrow at position 3, down along two concave track segments 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 4, through two straight track segments 130 and up again along another two concave track segments 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 5, further up along two convex track segments 150 as illustrated by the arrow at position 6, around the inner track surfaces of a loop of four concave track segments 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 7, down along two convex track segments 150 as illustrated by the arrow at position 8, further down along two concave track segments 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 9, through two more straight track segments 130 and up again along two concave track segments 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 10, around the outer track surfaces of a loop of four convex track segments 150 as illustrated by the arrow at position 11, down along two concave track segments 140 as illustrated by the arrow at position 12, and finally exit the track through straight track segments 130 as illustrated by the arrow at position 13.
Appropriate supports (not shown) are employed to support the track 1150 in the desired upright position.
FIG. 60 is a perspective view of an upwardly inclining U-shaped track 1110 assembled from a selected combination of straight track segments 130 and concave track segments 140 disclosed herein. The upwardly inclining U-shaped track 1110 resembles a conventional oval track except that the two opposite ends 1112 of the track incline upwards to form a so-called “deformed oval track” or an “upwardly inclining U-shaped track”. The two opposite ends 1112 of the track 1110 may be made of transparent material so that movement of the slot cars 28, 28′ underneath the opposite ends 1112 of the track 1110 can be visible by players.
Appropriate track supports 1114 are employed to support the U-shaped track 1110 in the upright position.
Although it has been shown and described that the U-shaped track is upwardly inclining, it is understood that the U-shaped track may be oriented upside down so that the U-shaped track is downwardly inclining.
FIG. 61 shows a route-reversing tower assembly 1240 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The route-reversing tower assembly 1240 includes a plurality of double-sided track segments 180 as described hereinbefore and shown in FIG. 17. The double-sided track segment 180 has opposite slotted track surfaces 182, 184. This allows slot cars 28, 28′ to move along the guide slots 186 provided on the upper and lower track surfaces 182, 184 of the track 180 respectively. The double-sided track segments 180 are positioned vertically above the floor and are held in position by upright supports 1242.
A concave track segment 1244 is pivotally connected to upright supports 1246 and is disposed at one end of the double-sided track 180. The concave track segment 1244 has a pair of guide slots 1248 provided on a concave track surface thereof which are adapted to be in registration with either the guide slots 186 on the upper 182 or lower 184 track surfaces of the double-sided track 180. The opposite ends of the guide slots 1248 are provided with stops 1250, 1252 respectively pivotable from an extended position where advancement a slot car 28, 28′ is prevented and a retracted position where advancement of a slot car is allowed.
The slot car 28, 28′ travels along the upper track surface 182 of the double-sided track 180 in the direction as indicated by the arrow. The slot car 28, 28′ passes the stop 1250 in its retracted position and moves upward along the guide slot 1248 of the concave track segment 1244 until it is stopped by the stop 1252 in its extended position. When the slot car 28, 28′ is located on the concave track segment 1244, the weight of the slot car 28, 28′ causes the concave track segment 1244 to pivot from the normal upward position, where it is biased by a weight (not shown) to a downward position represented by phantom lines. When the concave track segment 1244 is in the downward position, the stop 1250 pivots from a retracted position to an extended position so as to prevent the slot car 28, 28′ from falling out from the end of the guide slot 1248. When the concave track segment is in the downward position, the stop 1252 pivots from an extended position to a retracted position, as shown in FIG. 61B, allowing the slot car 28, 28′ to move from the concave track segment 1244 toward and along the lower track surface 184 of the double-sided track 180 in a reverse direction.
FIG. 62 shows a route-reversing tower 1260 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 62A-62F show the sequence of reversing the route of a slot car by means of the route-reversing tower 1260 of FIG. 62.
The route-reversing tower 1260 includes a concave track segment 1262 pivotally connected to a stand 1264 and moveable between an upward position and a downward position. A weight 1266 is employed to maintain the concave track segment 1262 in the upward position, as shown in FIG. 62, where the guide slots of the concave track segment 1262 are in registration with the guide slots on the upper surface of the double-sided track segment 180. The weight 1266 is mounted on an arc-shaped member 1268 connected to the concave track segment 1262.
When a slot car 28, 28′ moves from the upper surface of the double-sided track segment 180 to the concave track segment 1262 in its upward position (step 1), the weight of the slot car 28, 28′ acts against the weight 1266 on the stand 1264 thereby swinging the concave track segment 1262 from the upward position toward the downward position (steps 2-4) where the guide slots on the concave track segment 1262 are in registration with the guide slots on the lower surface of the double-sided track segment 180, as shown in FIG. 62D. When the concave track segment 1262 is in its downward position, the slot car 28, 28′ is adapted to move from the concave track segment 1262 to the lower surface of the double-sided track segment 180 in a reverse direction. The concave track segment 1262 then moves back to the upward position under the influence of the weight 1266 (steps 5 and 6). The route-reversing sequences are completed.
FIGS. 63 and 64 show a 1-lane route-reversing tower 2100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
The route-reversing tower 2100 is adapted to be slidably connected to an end of two back-to-back 1- lane track segments 2110, 2110′. The back-to- back track segments 2110, 2110′ have upwardly and downwardly facing slotted track surfaces 2112, 2112′ on which a slot car may travel.
The route-reversing tower 2100 includes a 1-lane concave track segment 2150 which is pivotally connected to a stand 2160 about a pivot pin 2162 through a pair of connecting members 2163 such that the concave track segment 2150 is moveable between an upward position, as shown in FIG. 63, and a downward position. A weight 2170 is employed to maintain the concave track segment 2150 in the upward position where the T-slot 2164 of the concave track segment 2150 is in alignment with the T-slot 2114 on the upper track segment 2110. The weight 2170 is mounted on a rod member 2172 extending from the bottom surface of the concave track segment 2150.
The concave track segment 2150 has a proximal end adjacent to the back-to- back track segments 2110, 2110′ and a distal end at a distance from the back-to-back track segments. A funnel-shaped slot 2166 is provided at the proximal end of the concave track segment 2150 for smoothly receiving and guiding the guide pins 20, 22 of the slot car 28, 28′ into the T-slot 2164 of the concave track segment 2150. A pair of electrical brushes 2168, 2168 is provided at the distal end on the concave track segment 2150 and is electrically coupled to a pair of conductive rails 2116, 2116.
When a slot car 28, 28′ runs from the upper track segment 2110 of the back-to- back track segments 2110, 2110′ onto the concave track segment 2150 in its upward position, the slot car 28, 28′ stops after passing through the funnel-shaped slot 2166.
The weight of the stopped slot car 28, 28′ acts against the weight 2170 thereby swinging the concave track segment 2150 from the upward position toward the downward position where the T-slot 2164 on the concave track segment 2150 is in alignment with the T-slot 2114′ on the lower track segment 2110′. Meanwhile, the slot car is retained on the concave track segment 2150 by means of the engagement of the T-shaped guide pin 22 with a pivotable switch or stop member (not shown) located within the concave T-slot 2164 on the concave track segment 2150. The pivotable switch or stop member allows the slot car 28, 28′ to pass forwards in one direction but prevents it from moving backwards in the opposite direction.
When the concave track segment 2150 is in its downward position, the pair of electrical brushes 2168, 2168 comes into contact with the pair of conductive rails 2118, 2118 of the upper track segment 2110 thereby reconnecting the electric circuit.
When the electric circuit is reconnected, the slot car 28, 28′ moves from the concave track segment 2150 towards the lower track segment 2110′ of the back-to- back track segment 2110, 2110′ in a reverse direction. The concave track segment 2150 then moves back to the upward position under the influence of the weight 2170. This completes the route-reversing action of the slot car.
FIGS. 65 and 65A shows the weight 2170 of the route-reversing tower 2100 in the form of a container containing batteries 2180. The container may contain other small objects such as metal screws, nuts, washer, or coins. This allows players to adjust the weight of the weight 2170 when slot cars of different weights are used.
The container may be threadably engaged with a threaded portion 2176 provided at one end of the rod 2172. The weight 2170 can further be adjusted and fine-tuned by turning the container either clockwise or anticlockwise. A nut 2178 is also threadably engaged with the threaded portion 2176 and is adapted to be tightly engaged with the container thereby fixing it at a desired position relative to the rod. Although it has been shown that a thread and nut system can be used to adjust the weight, it is understood that other appropriate system, such as a ball bearing system, can also be used. The ball bearing (not shown) may be provided on the container for frictional engagement with the rod which may be provided with indentations.
FIGS. 66 to 68 show a 2-lane route-reversing tower 2600 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. The 2-lane route-reversing tower 2600 is similar to the 1-lane route-reversing tower 2100 of FIG. 63, except that two slot cars running on two separate lanes on the track will share one 2-lane route-reversing tower 2600.
The 2-lane route-reversing tower 2600 is adapted to be slidably connected to an end of two back-to-back 2- lane track segments 2610, 2610′. The back-to- back track segments 2610, 2610′ have upwardly and downwardly facing slotted track surfaces on which slot cars may travel.
The route-reversing tower 2600 includes a 2-lane concave track segment 2650 which is pivotally connected to a stand 2660 about a pivot pin 2620 through a pair of connecting members 2663 such that the concave track segment 2650 is moveable between an upward position and a downward position. A weight 2670 is employed to maintain the concave track segment 2650 in the upward position where the two T-slots 2664 of the concave track segment 2650 are in alignment with the two T-slots 2614 on the upper track segment 2610 respectively. The weight 2670 is mounted on a rod member 2672 extending from the bottom surface of the concave track segment 2650.
The concave track segment 2650 has a proximal end adjacent to the back-to- back track segments 2610, 2610′ and a distal end at a distance from the back-to-back track segments. Two funnel-shaped slots 2665 are provided at the proximal end of the concave track segment 2650 for smoothly receiving and guiding the guide pins 20, 22 of the slot cars 28, 28′ into the two T-slots 2664 of the concave track segment 2650. A pair of electrical brushes 2668, 2668 is provided at the distal end of the concave track segment 2650 and is electrically coupled to each of the two pairs of conductive rails 2616, 2616.
When a slot car 28, 28′ runs from one lane of the upper 2-lane track segment 2610 and enters the concave track segment 2650, it stops after passing through the funnel-shaped slot 2665. The weight of the stopped slot car 28, 28′ acts against the weight 2670 on the stand 2660 thereby swinging the concave track segment 2650 from the upward position toward the downward position where the T-slots 2664 on the concave track segment 2650 are in alignment with the T-slots 2614′ on the lower track segment 2610′.
Meanwhile, the slot car 28, 28′ is retained on the concave track segment 2650 by means of the engagement of the T-shaped guide pin 22 with a pivotable switch or stop member (not shown) located within the concave T-slot 2664 on the concave track segment 2650. The pivotable switch or stop member allows the slot car 28, 28′ to pass forwards in one direction but prevents it from moving backwards in the opposite direction.
When the concave track segment 2650 is in its downward position, the pairs of electrical brushes 2668, 2668 come into contact with the pairs of conductive rails 2618, 2618 of the upper track segment 2610 thereby reconnecting the electric circuit.
When the electric circuit is reconnected, the slot car 28, 28′ moves from the concave track segment 2650 towards the lower track segment 2610′ in a reverse direction. The concave track segment 2650 then moves back to the upward position under the influence of the weight 2670. This completes the route-reversing action of the slot car.
FIG. 69 is a 1-lane route-reversing tower 2800 in accordance an embodiment of the present invention. This 1-lane route-reversing tower 2800 is similar to the 1-lane route-reversing tower 2100 of FIG. 63, except that the X-shaped stand 2160 is replaced by a pair of elongated track extensions 2860, 2860 each being mounted on an upright stand 2861.
The proximal ends of the track extensions 2860, 2860 are slidably connected to the sides of two back-to-back 1- lane track segments 2810, 2810′ respectively. The distal ends of the track extensions 2860, 2860 are provided with a transverse pivot pin 2862 about which a 1-lane concave track segment 2850 pivots through a pair of connecting members 2863 between an upward position and a downward position. A weight 2870 is employed to maintain the concave track segment 2850 in the upward position where the T-slot 2864 of the concave track segment 2850 is in alignment with the T-slot 2814 on the upper track segment 2810. The weight 2870 is mounted on a rod member 2872 extending from the bottom surface of the concave track segment 2850.
The concave track segment 2850 has a proximal end adjacent to the back-to- back track segments 2810, 2810′ and a distal end at a distance from the back-to-back track segments. A funnel-shaped slot 2866 is provided at the proximal end of the concave track segment 2850 for smoothly receiving and guiding the guide pins 20, 22 of the slot car 28, 28′ into the T-slot 2864 of the concave track segment 2850. As best illustrated in FIG. 70, a pair of electrical brushes 2868, 2868 is provided at the distal end of the concave track segment 2850 and is electrically coupled to pair of conductive rails 2816, 2816.
When a slot car 28, 28′ runs from the upper track segment 2810 of the back-to- back track segments 2810, 2810′ onto the concave track segment 2850 in its upward position, the slot car 28, 28′ stops after passing through the funnel-shaped slot 2866. The slot car 28, 28′ is prevented from sliding backwards when the guide pin 22 is engaged with a pivotable switch or stop member located near the funnel-shaped slot 2866.
The weight of the stopped slot car 28, 28′ acts against the weight 2870 thereby swinging the concave track segment 2850 from the upward position toward the downward position where the T-slot 2864 on the concave track segment 2850 is in alignment with the T-slot on the lower track segment 2810′.
When the concave track segment 2850 is in its downward position, the pair of electrical brushes 2868, 2868 comes into contact with the pair of conductive rails 2818, 2818 of the upper track segment 2810, as shown in FIG. 71, thereby reconnecting the electric circuit.
When the electric circuit is reconnected, the slot car 28, 28′ moves from the concave track segment 2850 towards the lower track segment 2810′ in a reverse direction. The concave track segment 2850 then moves back to the upward position under the influence of the weight 2870. This completes the route-reversing action of the slot car.
FIGS. 72 to 74 show a double 1-lane route-reversing tower 2900 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. This double 1-lane route-reversing tower 2900 is similar to the 1-lane route-reversing tower 2800 of FIG. 69 except that it allows two racing slot cars to reverse their routes independently and possibly simultaneously.
The double 1-lane route-reversing tower 2900 includes two side-by-side 1-lane concave track segments 2950, 2951 pivotally connected to a pair of track extensions 2960, 2960 mounted on upright stands 2962. The proximal ends of the track extensions 2960, 2960 are slidably connected respectively to the sides of back-to-back 2- lane track segments 2910, 2910′. The distal ends of the track extensions 2960, 2960 are provided with a transverse pivot pin 2963 about which the two concave track segments 2950, 2951 pivot through a pair of connecting members 2965 between an upward position and a downward position. A weight 2970 is employed to maintain each concave track segment 2950, 2951 in the upward position.
The players can assemble either a 1-lane route-reversing tower 2800 of FIG. 69 or a double 1-lane route-reversing tower 2900 of FIG. 72 as desired using similar parts.
FIGS. 75 to 78 show a double 1-lane route-reversing tower 3000 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. This double 1-lane route-reversing tower 3000 is similar to the double 1-lane route-reversing tower 2900 of FIG. 72, except that the pair of electrical brushes 2968 are replaced by a pair of metallic contact plates 3068, and that upright stands 3062 are relocated from a position under the back-to-back track segments to a position under the concave track segments 3050, 3051.
The application of the metallic contact plates 3068 increases the stability of the track as it is easier to reconnect when the concave track segments 3050, 3051 swings to its downward position. The contact plates 3068 are more cost effective in mass production. The relocation of the upright stands 3062 increases the stability of the track during the game.
FIG. 79 is a fully assembled track 4000 including straight tracks 4100, a figure-8 shaped track 4200, a barrel-shaped track 4300, and two upwardly inclining U-shaped tracks 4400.
FIG. 80 is another fully assembled track 5000 including straight tracks 5100, curved tracks 5200, twisted tracks 5300, a spiral track 5400, a barrel-shaped track 5500, a route-reversing loop track 5600, and a route-reversing tower 5700.
FIG. 81 is a further fully assembled track 6000 including straight tracks 6100, curved tracks 6200, twisted tracks 6300, a spiral track 6400, a barrel-shaped track 6500, a route-reversing loop track 6600, a route-reversing tower 6700, and a U-shaped track 6800.
According to the present invention, slot cars 28, 28′ are adapted to move along the track assemblies 4000, 5000, and 6000 in different orientations relative to the floor without falling off the track due to gravity.
It is understood that the slot track of the present invention is compatible with existing slot tracks because the slot track can combine with conventional slot tracks without additional cost. The mechanism of the slot track could provide great flexibility in track design with relatively low development cost.
FIG. 82 is a front view of a package 7980 containing toy vehicles and slot track segments of the present invention.
FIG. 83 is an enlarged view of the upper left corner of the package 7980 with a TRY ME packaging feature. The feature includes a window 7982 on the package 7980 through which a double-sided track segment 7984 can be revealed. Two slot cars 7986, 7988 are secured to the two opposite sides of the track segment 7984 respectively. A knob 7990 partially extending from an opening 7992 on the package 980 is coupled to the track segment 7984 in such a manner that when the knob 7990 is turned up or down by a potential customer, the track segment 7984 rotates about its longitudinal axis thereby revealing the two slot cars 7986, 7988 on the opposite sides of the track segment 7984.
While the present invention has been shown and described with particular references to a number of preferred embodiments thereof, it should be noted that various other changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A toy object and slot track system comprising:

(a) a plurality of track segments each having a retaining or non-retaining slot provided thereon and defining a slotted track surface;

(b) said plurality of track segments comprising straight and curved track segments connectable to form straight and curved tracks with slotted track surfaces facing upwards and/or downwards, and concave/convex track segments connectable to form at least one loop-shaped track with concave/convex slotted track surfaces facing inwards and/or outwards; and

(c) at least one toy object having first and second protruding pins receivable in and slidable along said retaining or non-retaining slot, at least one of said first and second protruding pins having a free end portion retainable within said retaining slot.

2. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said at least one loop-shaped track is a spiral track, barrel-shaped track, figure-8 shaped track, U-shaped track, or route-reversing loop track.

3. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a route diverging/converging track segment.

4. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a track segment with a twisted track surface.

5. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 further comprising an upwardly or downwardly inclining U-shaped track.

6. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 further comprising track segments arranged in a back-to-back relationship with slotted track surfaces facing opposite directions.

7. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 wherein each track segment has two continuous retaining slots provided on one surface thereof.

8. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 wherein each track segment has at least one continuous retaining slot provided on one surface thereof, and at least one continuous retaining slot provided on the other surface thereof opposite to said one surface.

9. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said toy object further comprises a motor and a magnet operatively coupled to a pair of conductive rails extending along said retaining slot.

10. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said first and second protruding pins extend from an underside of said toy object.

11. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said first and second protruding pins extend from lateral sides of said toy object respectively.

12. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 wherein each of said first and second protruding pins has a free end portion retainable within said retaining slot.

13. A toy object and slot track system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said retaining slot and said free end portion are generally T-shaped.

14. A toy object and route-reversing track system comprising:

(a) a first track segment having a first retaining slot provided on an upper surface thereof and a second retaining slot provided on a lower surface thereof,

(b) a second track segment having a third retaining slot provided on a concave surface thereof, said second track segment being pivotable between a first position where one end of said third retaining slot is in registration with said first retaining slot and a second position where the other end of said third retaining slot is in registration with said second retaining slot; and

(c) a toy object having first and second protruding pins receivable in and slidable along said first, second, and third retaining slots, at least one of said first and second protruding pins having a free end portion retainable within said first, second, and third retaining slots.

15. A toy object and route-reversing track system as claimed in claim 14 further comprising a weight for biasing said second pivotable track segment in said first position.

16. A toy object and route-reversing track system as claimed in claim 15 wherein said weight takes the form of a container containing a plurality of objects adapted for weight adjustment.

17. A toy object and route-reversing track system as claimed in claim 14 further comprising a funnel-shaped slot provided at said one end of said third retaining slot, a pair of electrical contacts provided at said other end of said third retaining slot, and a pair of conductive rails electrically coupled to said pair of electrical contacts and extending along said third retaining slot except for said funnel-shaped slot, wherein said pair of electrical contacts is electrically coupled to a pair of conductive rails provided along said first retaining slot when said second track segment is in said second position.

18. A toy object and route-reversing track system as claimed in claim 14 wherein each of said first and second protruding pins has a free end portion retainable within said retaining slots.

19. A toy object and route-reversing track system as claimed in claim 14 wherein said retaining slot and said free end portion are generally T-shaped.

20. A toy object and route-reversing track system as claimed in claim 14 wherein said first track segment is supported at a distance above a floor by means of a stand, and said second track segment is pivotable about a pivot pin coupled to said stand.

21. A toy object and route-reversing track system comprising:

(a) a first track segment having a first retaining slot provided on a surface facing upward;

(b) a second track segment having a second retaining slot provided on a surface facing downward, said first and second track segments being connected together;

(c) a third track segment having a third retaining slot provided on a concave surface thereof, said third track segment being pivotable between a first position where one end of said third retaining slot is in registration with said first retaining slot and a second position where the other end of said third retaining slot is in registration with said second retaining slot; and

(d) a toy object having first and second protruding pins receivable in and slidable along said first, second, and third retaining slots, at least one of said first and second protruding pins having a free end portion retainable within said first, second, and third retaining slots.

22. A slot track system for a toy object comprising: a plurality of track segments each having a retaining or non-retaining slot provided thereon and defining a slotted track surface; said plurality of track segments comprising straight and curved track segments connectable to form straight and curved tracks with slotted track surfaces facing upwards and/or downwards, and concave/convex track segments connectable to form at least one loop-shaped track with concave/convex slotted track surfaces facing inwards and/or outwards; and said plurality of track segments being configured to allow at least one toy object moving along said straight and curved tracks and said at least one loop-shaped track.

23. A slot track system of claim 22, wherein said at least one loop-shaped track is a spiral track, barrel-shaped track, figure-8 shaped track, U-shaped track, or route-reversing loop track.

24. A slot track system of claim 22, further comprising a route diverging/converging track segment.

25. A slot track system of claim 22, further comprising a track segment with a twisted track surface.

26. A slot track system of claim 22, further comprising an upwardly or downwardly inclining U-shaped track.

27. A slot track system of claim 22, further comprising track segments arranged in a back-to-back relationship with slotted track surfaces facing opposite directions.