WO2019028677A1

WO2019028677A1 - Toy vehicle track sets

Info

Publication number: WO2019028677A1
Application number: PCT/CN2017/096442
Authority: WO
Inventors: Tim Wing Hui; Hoi Chi Irene LAU; Cho Wah LAW; Pik Wa LAI
Original assignee: Mattel, Inc.
Priority date: 2017-08-08
Filing date: 2017-08-08
Publication date: 2019-02-14

Abstract

Toy track sets (100, 200) for toy vehicles are disclosed. A toy track set (100, 200) may include a first track section (102) configured to pivot relative to a second track section (104) between a first position in which a first travel surface (106, 208) of the first track section (102) and an upper travel surface (120, 220) of the second track section (104) form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation, and a second position in which (1) a second travel surface (110, 210) of the first track section (102) and the upper travel surface (120, 220) form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation and (2) a first retention element (114, 214) of the first track section (102) and a second retention element (124, 224) of the second track section (104) form a travel path for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. The first and second retention elements may be configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation.

Description

TOY VEHICLE TRACK SETS

BACKGROUND

People of all ages enjoy playing with toy vehicles on racetracks. Toy vehicles may be enjoyed with accessories, such as a track including flips, curves, loops, jumps, and other features. People of all ages also enjoy children’s films, including ones featuring anthropomorphized vehicles. Many toys having the appearance of vehicles and settings from films that are popular with children of all ages.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a toy track set for a toy vehicle may include a first track section having first and second longitudinal sides. The first longitudinal side may have a first travel surface and the second longitudinal side may have a second travel surface. The first longitudinal side may include a first retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. The toy track set for a toy vehicle may additionally include a second track section connected to the first track section. The second track section may have upper and lower longitudinal sides. The upper longitudinal side may have an upper travel surface and the lower longitudinal side may have a second retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. The first track section may be configured to pivot relative to the second track section between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the first travel surface and the upper travel surface may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation. In the second position, the second travel surface and the upper travel surface may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation. Additionally, in the second position, the first retention element and the second retention element may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation.

In some embodiments, a toy track set for a toy vehicle may include a frame having opposed first and second end portions. The first end portion may have a first connector surface. The toy track set for a toy vehicle may additionally include a first track section pivotably attached to the frame. The first track section may have opposed first and second longitudinal sides. The first longitudinal side may have a first travel surface and the second longitudinal side may have a second travel surface. The first longitudinal side may include a first retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. The toy track set for a toy vehicle may further include a second track section connected to the first end portion of the frame. The second track section may have opposed upper and lower longitudinal sides. The upper longitudinal side may have an upper travel surface and the lower longitudinal side may have a second retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. The first end portion of the frame further includes a third retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. The first track section may be configured to pivot relative to the frame and the second track section between a first position in which the first travel surface is contiguous with the first connector surface and the upper travel surface, and a second position in which (1) the second travel surface is contiguous with the first connector surface and the upper travel surface and (2) the first retention element is contiguous with the second and third retention elements.

Features, functions, and advantages may be achieved independently in various embodiments of the present disclosure, or may be combined in yet other embodiments, further details of which can be seen with reference to the following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an illustrative toy vehicle track set.

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the toy vehicle track set of Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is another perspective view of the toy vehicle track of Fig. 2.

Fig. 4 is a partial view of the toy vehicle track of Fig. 2, showing a first pivoting track section in a first position.

Fig. 5 is a partial view of the toy vehicle track of Fig. 2, showing the first pivoting track section of Fig. 4 between the first position and a second position.

Fig. 6 is a partial view of the toy vehicle track of Fig. 2, showing the first pivoting track section of Fig. 4 in the second position.

Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the second pivoting track section of Fig. 4, shown without a track surface to show a second pivoting mechanism in a release position.

Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the second pivoting track section of Fig. 7, shown with the second pivoting mechanism in a locked position.

Fig. 9 is an exploded view of the toy vehicle track set of Fig. 2.

Fig. 10 is a partial view of the toy vehicle track set of Fig. 2, showing an obstruction movably attached to the intermediate track section (s) .

Fig. 11 is a partial view of the toy vehicle track set of Fig. 2, showing a receptacle in a raised position.

Fig. 12 is a partial view of the toy vehicle track set of Fig. 2, showing a receptacle in a lowered position.

Fig. 13 is a perspective view of an example of a toy vehicle that may be used with the toy vehicle track set of Fig. 2.

Fig. 14 is a front view of the toy vehicle of Fig. 13.

Fig. 15 is a perspective view of another example of a toy vehicle that may be used with the toy vehicle track set of Fig. 2.

Fig. 16 is a front view of the toy vehicle of Fig. 14.

Fig. 17 is a bottom view of the toy vehicle of Figs. 13-14.

Fig. 18 is a bottom view of the toy vehicle of Figs. 15-16.

Fig. 19 is a perspective view of the toy vehicle track set of Fig. 2, showing toy vehicles on a starting travel surface.

Figs. 20-23 are various views of the toy vehicle track set of Fig. 2, showing examples of play with the toy vehicle track set of Fig. 2 and the first and second toy vehicles of Fig. 19.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Overview

Various embodiments of a toy vehicle track set are described below and illustrated in the associated drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the toy vehicle track set and/or its various components may contain at least one of the structure, components, functionality, and/or variations described, illustrated, and/or incorporated herein. Furthermore, the structures, components, functionalities, and/or variations described, illustrated, and/or incorporated herein in connection with the present teachings may be included in other similar toy vehicle track sets. The following description of various embodiments is merely illustrative in nature and is in no way intended to limit the disclosure, its application, or uses. Additionally, the advantages provided by the embodiments, as described below, are illustrative in nature and not all embodiments provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantages.

Examples, Components, and Alternatives

The following sections describe selected aspects of illustrative toy vehicle track sets as well as related apparatuses and/or methods. The examples in these sections are intended for illustration and should not be interpreted as limiting the entire scope of the present disclosure. Each section may include one or more distinct inventions, and/or contextual or related information, function, and/or structure.

Illustrative Toy Vehicle Track Set:

This example describes an illustrative toy vehicle track set having a first track section and a second track section； see Fig. 1.

Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an illustrative toy vehicle track set, generally indicated at 100. Toy vehicle track set 100 may include a first track section 102 and a second track section 104. The first and second track sections may be constructed of any appropriate material or combination of materials, such as wood or injection molded plastic, etc.

First track section 102 may include a first longitudinal side 106 and a second longitudinal side 108. The first and second longitudinal sides may have any suitable relationship (s) . For example, the first and second longitudinal sides may be opposed from or opposite to each other. Alternatively, the first longitudinal side may be any suitable angle relative to second longitudinal side, such as 45 degrees or 90 degrees. First longitudinal side 106 may be within a first plane P1, while second longitudinal side may be within a second plane P2. In some examples, the second plane is different or spaced from the first plane. For example, first and second planes may be parallel to each other, perpendicular to each other, or have any other suitable relationship to each other.

First longitudinal side 106 may include a first travel surface 110 and a first retention element 114. The first travel surface may be adapted or configured to support a toy vehicle as it travels across or along that surface. First retention element 114 may include any suitable structure configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. For example, the first retention element may include a track (e.g., I-beam track) , a slot, etc. The first retention element may be configured to be received by a portion of a toy vehicle, or may be configured to receive a portion of the toy vehicle. Second longitudinal side 108 may include a second travel surface 112. Second travel surface 112 may be adapted or configured to support a toy vehicle as it travels across or along that surface. Second longitudinal side 108 may not include (or exclude) a retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. Alternatively, the second longitudinal side may include a retention element, such as similar to first retention element 114.

First travel surface 110 and/or second travel surface 112 may have a width that accommodates only a single toy vehicle or two or more toy vehicles. Additionally, or alternatively, the first and/or second travel surfaces may have a length that accommodates only a single toy vehicle or two or more toy vehicles. First travel surface 110 and/or second travel surface 112 may be straight and/or may have curvature in one or more directions. First longitudinal side 106 may include only first travel surface 110 and no other additional travel surfaces, and/or second longitudinal side 108 may include only second travel surface 112 and no other additional travel surfaces. In other words, first longitudinal side 106 may include only a single first travel surface 110, and/or second longitudinal side 108 may include only a single second travel surface 112. Alternatively, the first longitudinal side may include other travel surface (s) in addition to the first travel surface, and/or the second longitudinal side may include other travel surface (s) in addition to the second travel surface. When the first and/or second longitudinal side (s) include additional travel surface (s) , those travel surface (s) may be spaced and/or disconnected from the first travel surface.

Second track section 104 may be connected to first track section 102. In some examples, the second track section may be connected directly to the first track section. Alternatively, one or more connecting structures may be disposed between the first and second track sections to connect the second track section to the first track section. Second track section 104 may include an upper longitudinal side 116 and a lower longitudinal side 118. The upper and lower longitudinal sides may have any suitable relationship (s) . For example, the upper and lower longitudinal sides may be opposed from or opposite to each other. Alternatively, the upper longitudinal side may be any suitable angle relative to lower longitudinal side, such as 45 degrees or 90 degrees. Upper longitudinal side 116 may be within a third plane P3, while lower longitudinal side may be within a fourth plane P4. In some examples, the fourth plane is different from the third plane. For example, third and fourth planes may be parallel to each other, perpendicular to each other, or have any other suitable relationship to each other.

Upper longitudinal side 116 may include an upper travel surface 120. Lower longitudinal side 118 may include a lower travel surface 122 and a second retention element 124. Upper travel surface 120 and lower travel surface 122 may be adapted or configured to support a toy vehicle as it travels across or along that surface. Upper travel surface 120 and/or lower travel surface 122 may have a width that accommodates only a single toy vehicle or two or more toy vehicles. Upper travel surface 120 and/or lower travel surface 122 may be straight and/or may have curvature in one or more directions. In some examples, lower longitudinal side 118 may include only the second retention element and may exclude the lower travel surface. Second retention element 124 may include any suitable structure configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. For example, the second retention element may include a track (e.g., I-beam track) , a slot, etc. The second retention element may be configured to be received by a portion of a toy vehicle, or may be configured to receive a portion of the toy vehicle. Upper longitudinal side 116 may not include (or exclude) a retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. Alternatively, the upper longitudinal side may include a retention element, such as similar to second retention element 124.

First track section 102 may be configured to pivot relative to second track section 104 between first and second positions. The first track section may be configured to pivot with one toy vehicle on the first and/or second travel surfaces, or with two or more toy vehicles on the first and/or second travel surfaces. In the first position, first travel surface 110 and upper travel surface 120 form a continuous travel path 130 for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation. That is, first travel surface 110 may be contiguous with upper travel surface 120 in the first position. In the second position, second travel surface 112 and upper travel surface 120 form a continuous travel path 132 for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation. That is, second travel surface 112 may be contiguous with upper travel surface 120 in the second position. Additionally, in the second position, first retention element 114 and second retention element 124 form a continuous travel path 134 for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. In other words, first retention element 114 may be contiguous with second retention element 124 in the second position.

When first track section 102 is in the first position, a toy vehicle (or two or more toy vehicles when the width and/or length of the first travel surface accommodates more than one toy vehicle) may travel from first travel surface 110 to upper travel surface 120 (or vice-versa) without intervention from a user of toy vehicle track set 100. In some examples, if a toy vehicle had been traveling along first travel surface 110, perhaps having previously been imparted with some kinetic energy, the toy vehicle may then proceed to travel along upper travel surface 120 (or vice-versa) , without the need of additional kinetic energy, when first track section 102 is in the first position. That is, first travel surface 110 and upper travel surface 120 may both be part of continuous travel path 130 when first track section 102 is in the first position.

When first track section 102 is in the second position, a toy vehicle (or two or more toy vehicles when the width and/or length of the second travel surface accommodates more than one toy vehicle) may travel from second travel surface 112 to upper travel surface 120 (or vice-versa) without intervention from a user of toy track set 100. In some examples, if a toy vehicle had been traveling along second travel surface 112, perhaps having previously been imparted with some kinetic energy, the toy vehicle may then naturally proceed to travel along upper travel surface 120 (or vice-versa) , without the need of additional kinetic energy, when first track section 102 is in the second position. That is, second travel surface 112 and upper travel surface 120 may both be part of continuous travel path 132 when first track section 102 is in the second position.

Additionally, when first track section 102 is in the second position, a toy vehicle may travel from first retention element 114 to second retention element 124 (or vice-versa) without intervention from a user of toy track set 100. In some examples, if a toy vehicle had been traveling along first retention element 114, perhaps having previously been imparted with some kinetic energy, the toy vehicle may then naturally proceed to travel along second retention element 124 (or vice-versa) , without the need of additional kinetic energy, when first track section 102 is in the second position. That is, the first and second retention elements may both be part of continuous travel path 134 when first track section 102 is in the second position.

Any suitable toy vehicle (s) may be used with toy vehicle track set 100 with any suitable number of wheels. In some examples, the toy vehicle (s) may have a weight that is over a predetermined threshold weight required to cause the first track section to pivot, such as when the first and/or second travel surface supports the toy vehicle (s) .

Embodiment of a Toy Vehicle Track Set:

This example describes an illustrative toy vehicle track set； see Figs. 2-12.

Figs. 2-3 are perspective views of an embodiment of a toy vehicle track set, generally indicated at 200. Toy vehicle track set 200 is an embodiment of toy vehicle track set 100, and the various features and benefits of toy vehicle track set 100 will not be repeated in their entirety. Toy vehicle track set 200 may include a starting track section 201, a first pivoting track section 202, one or more intermediate track sections 204, a second pivoting track section 205, and one or more terminal track sections 206.

Starting track section 201 may include a starting travel surface 207. First pivoting track section 202 may include a first longitudinal side 208 and a second longitudinal side 209. First longitudinal side 208 may include a first travel surface 210 and a first retention element 214 configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. Second longitudinal side 209 may include a second travel surface 212. First travel surface 210 and second travel surface 212 may be adapted or configured to support a toy vehicle as it travels across or along that surface. First travel surface 210 and second travel surface 212 may be opposed or have any other suitable relationship.

Intermediate track section (s) 204 may include an upper longitudinal side 216 and a lower longitudinal side 218. Upper longitudinal side 216 may include an upper travel surface 220. Lower longitudinal side 218 may include a lower travel surface 222 and a second retention element 224 configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. In some examples, lower longitudinal side 218 may exclude lower travel surface 222 and include only the second retention element.

Second pivoting track section 205 may include a third longitudinal side 226 and a fourth longitudinal side 228. Third longitudinal side 226 may include a third travel surface 230 and a third retention element 234 configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. Fourth longitudinal side 228 may include a fourth travel surface 242. Third travel surface 230 and fourth travel surface 242 may be adapted or configured to support a toy vehicle as it travels across or along that surface. Third travel surface 230 and fourth travel surface 242 may be opposed or have any suitable relationship.

The first, second, and/or third retention elements may be sized such that a toy vehicle retained by those element (s) in an upside-down orientation is spaced from the corresponding travel surfaces on the same longitudinal sides as those retention elements. For example, the second retention element may be sized such that a toy vehicle is spaced from the lower travel surface when travelling in an upside-down orientation. Alternatively, the first, second, and/or third retention elements may be sized such that a toy vehicle retained by those element (s) in an upside-down orientation contacts the corresponding travel surfaces on the same longitudinal sides as those retention elements. For example, the second retention element may be sized such that the wheels of a toy vehicle contacts and rolls on the lower travel surface when travelling in an upside-down orientation.

Terminal track section (s) 206 may include an upper longitudinal side 246 and a lower longitudinal side 248. Upper longitudinal side 246 may include an upper travel surface 249. Lower longitudinal side 248 may not include a travel surface or a retention element. Alternatively, that longitudinal side may include a travel surface and/or a retention element.

First pivoting track section 202 may be configured to pivot or flip between a first position 250 and a second position 252 relative to starting track section 201 and/or intermediate track section (s) 204, as shown in Figs. 4-6. The first pivoting track section may pivot about any suitable axis, such as a longitudinal center axis (or along a longitudinal center) of that pivoting track section. When first pivoting track section 202 is in the first position as shown in Fig. 4, first travel surface 210 and upper travel surface 220 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation. That is, first travel surface 210 may be contiguous with upper travel surface 220 in the first position. When first pivoting track section 202 is in the second position as shown in Fig. 6, second travel surface 212 and upper travel surface 220 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation. That is, second travel surface 212 may be contiguous with upper travel surface 220 in the second position. Additionally, when first pivoting track section 202 is in the second position, first retention element 214 and second retention element 224 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation, as shown in Fig. 6. In other words, first retention element 214 may be contiguous with second retention element 224 in the second position.

Second pivoting track section 205 may be configured to pivot or flip between a third position 254 (shown in Fig. 2) and a fourth position 256 (shown in Fig. 22) relative to intermediate track section (s) 204 and/or terminal track section (s) 206. The second pivoting track section may pivot about any suitable axis, such as a longitudinal center axis (or along a longitudinal center) of that pivoting track section. When second pivoting track section 205 is in the third position as shown in Fig. 2, upper travel surface 220 and fourth travel surface 242 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation. That is, upper travel surface 220 may be contiguous with fourth travel surface 242 in the third position. Additionally, when second pivoting track section 205 is in the third position, second retention element 224 and third retention element 234 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation, as shown in Fig. 3. In other words, second retention element 224 may be contiguous with third retention element 234 in the third position. When second pivoting track section 205 is in the fourth position as shown in Fig. 22, upper travel surface 220 and third travel surface 230 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation. That is, upper travel surface 220 may be contiguous with third travel surface 230 in the fourth position.

Toy vehicle track set 200 may additionally include a first pivoting mechanism 258 and a second pivoting mechanism 260, as shown in Fig. 2. The first pivoting mechanism includes any suitable structure configured to pivot first pivoting track section 202 between the first and second positions, while the second pivoting mechanism includes any suitable structure configured to pivot second pivoting track section 205 between the third and fourth positions. For example, first pivoting mechanism 258 may include a first spring 262, a trigger 264, and a second spring 266, as shown in Fig. 9. First spring 262 may be configured to urge or bias the first pivoting track section toward either the first or second position. In the example shown in Fig. 2, first spring 262 urges or biases the first pivoting track section toward the second position.

Trigger 264 may include any suitable structure configured to move between a locked position and a release position. In the locked position, first pivoting track section 202 is maintained or secured in the first or second position against urging or biasing of the first spring (such as via securing a portion of trigger 264 to a first frame as further discussed below) . In the example shown in Fig. 2, the first track pivoting section is maintained or secured in the first position against the urging of the first spring toward the second position. In the release position, the first pivoting track section is not maintained or secured in either the first or second positions, which allows the first spring to move the first pivoting track section toward the first or second position. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the first spring moves the first pivoting track section toward the second position in the release position. Trigger 264 may include a protruding portion 272 that extends through an opening or aperture 274 of first travel surface 210, as shown in Fig. 5. The protruding portion may be positioned such that a toy vehicle travelling on the first travel surface would contact and move the trigger from the locked position to the release position. For example, the protruding portion may be positioned to contact a front or side portion of the toy vehicle.

Second spring 266 may be configured to urge or bias the trigger toward the locked position. The first and second springs may include any suitable springs, such as coil springs, torsion springs, compression springs, tension springs, leaf springs, musical wire, and/or other resilient structures.

Second pivoting mechanism 260 may include the same or similar structure as first pivoting mechanism 258 as described above. For example, as shown in Figs. 7-9, second pivoting mechanism 260 may include a third spring 276, a trigger 278 having a protruding portion 280, and a fourth spring 282. Third spring 276 may be configured to urge or bias the second pivoting track section toward either the third or fourth position. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the third spring urges or biases the second pivoting track section toward the fourth position.

Trigger 278 may include any suitable structure configured to move between a release position 268 and a locked position 270, as shown in Figs. 7-8. In the release position, the second pivoting track section is not maintained or secured in either the third or fourth positions (such as via securing a portion of trigger 278 to a second frame as further discussed below) , which allows the third spring to move the second pivoting track section toward the third or fourth position. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the third spring moves the second pivoting track section toward the fourth position in the release position. In the locked position, second pivoting track section 205 is maintained or secured in the third or fourth position against urging or biasing of the third spring. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the second pivoting track section is maintained or secured in the third position against the urging or biasing of the third spring toward the fourth position. Protruding portion 280 (shown in Fig. 9) may extend through an opening or aperture of the third travel surface. The protruding portion may be positioned such that a toy vehicle travelling on the third travel surface would contact and move the trigger from the locked position to or toward the release position. For example, the protruding portion may be positioned to contact a front or side portion of the toy vehicle.

Fourth spring 282 may be configured to urge or bias the trigger toward the locked position. The first and second springs may include any suitable springs, such as coil springs, torsion springs, compression springs, tension springs, leaf springs, musical wire, and/or other resilient structures. Although toy vehicle track set 200 is shown to include two pivoting mechanisms, the track set may include any suitable number of pivoting mechanisms, such as one, three, four, five, etc. for any suitable number of track sections. Those pivoting mechanisms may include springs that are configured to urge or bias the track section (s) to any suitable positions which may be the same and/or different from the pivoting mechanisms of the other track sections.

Toy vehicle track set 200 may further include a first frame 284 and a second frame 286, as shown in Fig. 2. The first frame may have a first end portion 288 and a second end portion 290, while the second frame may have a third end portion 292 and a fourth end portion 294. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the first and second end portions are opposed, while the third and fourth end portions are opposed. In other examples, the first and second end portions (and/or the third and fourth end portions) may be at any suitable angle from each other, such as 45 degrees, 90 degrees, 115 degrees, etc. The angle may be within the same plane as the travel surfaces (e.g., left or right) , around the longitudinal axis (e.g., roll) , or in and out of the travel plane (e.g., up or down) .

First end portion 288 may include a first connector travel surface 296 (shown in Fig. 2) and a first connector retention element 298 (shown in Fig. 9) configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. First end portion 288 may be connected to intermediate track section (s) 204. Such connection may allow for first travel surface 210, first connector travel surface 296, and upper travel surface 220 to form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation when first pivoting track section 202 is in the first position. That is, first travel surface 210 may be contiguous with first connector travel surface 296 and upper travel surface 220 in the first position. Second travel surface 212, first connector travel surface 296, and upper travel surface 220 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation when first pivoting track section 202 is in the second position, as shown in Fig. 3. That is, second travel surface 212 may be contiguous with first connector travel surface 296, and upper travel surface 220 in the second position. Additionally, when first pivoting track section 202 is in the second position, first retention element 214, first connector retention element 298, and second retention element 224 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation, as shown in Fig. 6.In other words, first retention element 214 may be contiguous with first connector retention element 298 and second retention element 224 in the second position.

Second end portion 290 may include a second connector travel surface 300, as shown in Fig. 2. Such connection may allow for starting travel surface 207, second connector travel surface 300, first travel surface 210, first connector travel surface 296, and upper travel surface 220 to form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation when first pivoting track section 202 is in the first position. That is, starting travel surface 207 may be contiguous with second connector travel surface 300, first travel surface 210, first connector travel surface 296, and upper travel surface 220 in the first position. Starting travel surface 207, second connector travel surface 300, second travel surface 212, first connector travel surface 296, and upper travel surface 220 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation when first pivoting track section 202 is in the second position. That is, starting travel surface 207 may be contiguous with second connector travel surface 300, second travel surface 212, first connector travel surface 296, and upper travel surface 220 in the second position.

Similarly, third end portion 292 may include a third connector travel surface 302 (shown in Fig. 2) and a second connector retention element 304 (shown in Fig. 9) configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. Third end portion 292 may be connected to intermediate track section (s) 204. Such connection may allow upper travel surface 220, third connector travel surface 302, and fourth travel surface 242 to form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation when second pivoting track section 205 is in the third position, as shown in Fig. 2. That is, upper travel surface 220 may be contiguous with third connector travel surface 302 and fourth travel surface 242 in the third position. Additionally, when second pivoting track section 205 is in the third position, second retention element 224, second connector retention element 304, and third retention element 234 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation. In other words, second retention element 224 may be contiguous with second connector retention element 304 and third retention element 234 in the third position. Upper travel surface 220, third connector travel surface 302, and third travel surface 230 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation when second pivoting track section 205 is in the fourth position, as shown in Fig. 22. That is, upper travel surface 220 may be contiguous with third connector travel surface 302 and third travel surface 230 in the fourth position.

Fourth end portion 294 may include a fourth connector travel surface 306, as shown in Fig. 2. Such connection may allow for upper travel surface 220, third connector travel surface 302, fourth travel surface 242, fourth connector travel surface 306, and upper travel surface 249 to form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation when second pivoting track section 202 is in the third position. That is, upper travel surface 220 may be contiguous with third connector travel surface 302, fourth travel surface 242, fourth connector travel surface 306, and upper travel surface 249 in the third position. Upper travel surface 220, third connector travel surface 302, third travel surface 230, fourth connector travel surface 306, and upper travel surface 249 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation when second pivoting track section 205 is in the fourth position. That is, upper travel surface 220 may be contiguous with third connector travel surface 302, third travel surface 230, fourth connector travel surface 306, and upper travel surface 249 in the fourth position.

Although the first and second frames are shown to include connector travel surfaces and connector retention elements, the first and/or second frame may, in some examples, exclude those connector travel surfaces and connector retention elements. In those examples, the travel surfaces of first pivoting track section may be adjacent to (or contiguous with) the travel surfaces of the intermediate track section (s) and/or the travel surface of the starting track section without any connector travel surfaces and/or connector retention elements disposed between. For example, first travel surface 210 and upper travel surface 220 may form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation when first pivoting track section 202 is in the first position without first connector surface 296 disposed between the first travel surface and the upper travel surface.

First frame 284 may additionally include an aperture or opening 297 sized to receive a locking portion 265 of trigger 264, as shown in Fig. 9. In the locking position, locking portion 265 may be received in opening 297 securing the first pivoting track section in the first position against the urging of the first spring. In the release position, locking portion 265 is spaced from opening 297 allowing the first spring to urge the first pivoting track section to the second position. Similarly, second frame 286 may additionally include an aperture or opening 299 sized to receive a locking portion 279 of trigger 278, as shown in Figs. 7 and 9. In the locking position, locking portion 279 may be received in opening 299 securing the second pivoting track section in the third position against the urging of the third position. In the release position, locking portion 279 may be spaced from opening 299 allowing the third spring to urge the second pivoting track section to the fourth position.

Toy vehicle track set 200 may include various additional components, such as a starting gate 308, and decorative elements intended to invoke a certain landscape or setting or to resemble a setting from popular films. The decorative elements may include a skyscraper 310, buildings 311, and a decorative sign 314. Starting gate 308 may be connected to starting track section 201. Starting gate 308 may be configured to move between a lowered position and a lifted position. In a lowered position, starting gate 308 may be positioned parallel to starting travel surface 207 and may obstruct a toy vehicle from traveling on starting travel surface 207. In a lifted position, starting gate 308 may be positioned perpendicular to or at an angle with starting track section 201 and may allow a toy vehicle to travel on starting travel surface 207.

Toy vehicle track set 200 may additionally include a speed-reducing assembly or an obstruction assembly 316 movably attached to intermediate track section (s) 204. The obstruction may be configured to move between an extended position and a retracted position. As shown in Fig. 10, obstruction assembly 316 may include an obstructing lever 318 and one or more obstructing teeth 320. When in the extended position, obstructing lever 318 is extended toward the upper travel surface. Obstructing teeth 320 may be connected to obstructing lever 318 and when in the extended position, is extended toward the upper travel surface. There may be any suitable number of teeth positioned to come in contract with a toy vehicle travelling on upper travel surface 220. Upon contact of a toy vehicle travelling on upper travel surface 220 with one or more obstructing teeth 320, the speed of a toy vehicle may be reduced resulting from decrease in a toy vehicle’s kinetic energy.

When in the retracted position, obstructing lever 318 is pulled away from the upper travel surface. The retracted position is shown in dotted lines. When in the retracted position, obstructing teeth 320 are pulled away from the upper travel surface and are positioned so that a toy vehicle travelling on upper travel surface 220 does not come in contact with those teeth. Such position allows a toy vehicle travelling on upper travel surface 220 to travel without obstruction. A user may transition from the retracted position to the extended position by pushing obstructing lever 318 toward the upper travel surface. The extended position may then be transitioned to the retracted position by pulling out obstructing lever 318 away from the upper travel surface. Obstruction assembly 316 may provide a way to reduce the speed of a toy vehicle while a toy vehicle travels on upper travel surface 220. The reduction in speed may introduce variations in manner of operations when two toy vehicles are travelling on toy vehicle track 200. The variations will be described in more detail when manner of operation and use are explained.

Toy vehicle track set 200 may further include a dumpster or receptacle 322, as shown in Figs. 11-12. The receptacle may be configured to receive a toy vehicle when (1) the toy vehicle is travelling in an upside-down orientation from the second retention element of the intermediate track section (s) toward the second pivoting track section and (2) the second pivoting track section is in the fourth position. In the fourth position, the fourth travel surface is adjacent to (or contiguous with) the second retention element. Because the fourth travel surface lacks a retention element, a toy vehicle will detach as it leaves the lower travel surface and may be received by receptacle 322.

Receptacle 322 may include a receptacle frame 324, a first rod 326, and a second rod 328. Receptacle 322 may be movable between a raised position 330 and a lowered position 332. In the raised position, the first and the second rods are connected to the second frame, as shown in Fig. 11. In the lowered position, the first and second rods are detached from the second frame, which allows a user to remove the toy vehicle.

Figs. 13-14 are perspective and front views of a toy vehicle 400 that may be used with the toy vehicle track set of the present disclosure. Toy vehicle 400 may include a star decoration 402 in front of toy vehicle and wheels 404 configured to enable toy vehicle 400 to travel on surfaces. Fig. 15-16 are perspective and front views of another toy vehicle 410. Toy vehicle 410 may include decorative features, such as ears 412 on a top portion of toy vehicle 410, and wheels 414.

Fig. 17 is a bottom view of toy vehicle 400, while Fig. 18 is a bottom view of toy vehicle 410. As shown in Fig. 17, toy vehicle 400 may include a chassis 406 having an opening or a slot 408 sized to receive the retention elements of the toy vehicle track set of the present disclosure. Similarly, as shown in Fig. 18, toy vehicle 410 may include a chassis 416 having an opening or a slot 418 sized to receive the retention elements of the toy vehicle track set of the present disclosure. Although

toy vehicles

400 and 410 are shown to include a slot on their bottoms to receive the I-beam retention elements of the toy vehicle track set, the toy vehicles may alternatively include I-beam on their bottom that are configured to be receive in one or more slots of the toy vehicle track set. Additionally, although

toy vehicles

400 and 410 are shown, any suitable toy vehicles may be used with the toy vehicle track set of the present disclosure. For example, toy vehicles with any suitable number of wheels may be used. Moreover, in some examples, the toy vehicle (s) may have a weight that is over a predetermined threshold weight to activate the above pivoting mechanisms. For example, the weight of the toy vehicle (s) (e.g., greater than a predetermined threshold weight of 45 grams) may be configured to activate the trigger (s) of the above pivoting mechanism (s) , such as move the trigger (s) from the locked position to the release position. Part of the weight of the toy vehicle (s) may be in the form of a dead weight that is added to the chassis of the toy vehicle (s) . The mass, size, and positioning of the dead weight within the chassis of the toy vehicle may be configured to optimize the performance of the overall system.

Example Features:

This section describes additional aspects and features of toy track sets, presented without limitation as a series of paragraphs, some or all of which may be alphanumerically designated for clarity and efficiency. Each of these paragraphs can be combined with one or more other paragraphs, and/or with disclosure from elsewhere in this application in any suitable manner. Some of the paragraphs below expressly refer to and further limit other paragraphs, providing, without limitation, examples of some of the suitable combinations.

A1. A toy vehicle track set, comprising:

a first track section having first and second longitudinal sides, the first longitudinal side having a first travel surface and the second longitudinal side having a second travel surface, wherein the first longitudinal side includes a first retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation； and

a second track section connected to the first track section, the second track section having upper and lower longitudinal sides, the upper longitudinal side having an upper travel surface and the lower longitudinal side having a second retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation,

wherein the first track section is configured to pivot relative to the second track section between a first position in which the first travel surface and the upper travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation, and a second position in which the second travel surface and the upper travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation and in which the first retention element and the second retention element form a travel path for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation.

A2. The toy track set of paragraph A1, further comprising a pivoting mechanism configured to pivot the first track section between the first and second positions.

A3. The toy track set of paragraph A2, wherein the pivoting mechanism includes at least one spring configured to urge the first track section toward one of the first and second positions.

A4. The toy track set of paragraph A3, wherein the pivoting mechanism further includes a trigger configured to move between a locked position in which the first track section is maintained in the other of the first and second positions against urging of the at least one spring, and a release position in which the first track section is not maintained in the other of the first and second positions allowing the at least one spring to urge the first track section toward the one of the first and second positions.

A5. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A4, further comprising a frame having first and second end portions, wherein the first track section is pivotably connected to the frame and the second track section is connected to the first end portion of the frame.

A6. The toy track set of paragraph A5, wherein the frame includes an opening configured to receive a portion of the trigger, wherein the portion of the trigger is received in the opening in the locked position and is spaced from the opening in the release position.

A7. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A4-A6, wherein the trigger is positioned such that a toy vehicle travelling on the first travel surface contacts and moves the trigger from the locked position toward the release position.

A8. The toy track set of paragraph A7, wherein the first travel surface includes an aperture, wherein at least a portion of the trigger extends through the aperture.

A9. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A8, further comprising one or more additional track section connected to the first track section, the additional track sections include at least one additional travel surface, and the first track section is disposed between the second track section and the additional track sections.

A10. The toy track set of paragraph A9, wherein the at least one travel surface, the first travel surface, and the upper travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in the first position, and the at least one travel surface, the second travel surface, and the upper travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in the second position.

A11. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A10, further comprising a frame having first and second end portions, wherein the first track section is pivotably connected to the frame and the second track section is connected to the first end portion of the frame.

A12. The toy track set of paragraph A11, further comprising one or more additional track sections connected to the second end portion of the frame, the additional track sections include at least one additional travel surface.

A13. The toy track set of paragraph A12, wherein the at least one additional travel surface, the first travel surface, and the upper travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in the first position, and the at least one additional travel surface, the second travel surface, and the upper travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in the second position.

A14. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A11-A13, wherein the first and second end portions are opposed.

A15. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A14, wherein the first longitudinal side does not include a travel surface other than the first travel surface, and the second longitudinal side does not include a travel surface other than the second travel surface.

A16. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A15, wherein the second longitudinal side does not include a retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation.

A17. The toy track set of paragraph A16, further comprising a receptacle configured to receive a toy vehicle when (1) the toy vehicle is travelling in an upside-down orientation from the second track section toward the first track section and (2) the first track section is in the first position.

A18. The toy track set of paragraph A17, wherein the receptacle is movably attached to the frame and configured to move between a raised position and a lowered position.

A19. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A18, wherein the first retention element includes a first I-beam track and the second retention element includes a second I-beam track.

A20. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A19, further comprising at least one obstruction movably attached to the second track section and configured to move between an extended position in which the obstruction contacts a toy vehicle travelling on the upper travel surface, and a retracted position in which the obstruction does not contact the toy vehicle travelling on the upper travel surface.

A21. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A20, wherein the first and second longitudinal sides are opposed.

A22. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A21, wherein the first travel surface is within a first horizontal plane in the first position.

A23. The toy track set of paragraph A22, wherein the second travel surface is within a second horizontal plane in the first position.

A24. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A22-A23, wherein the first travel surface is within the second horizontal plane in the second position.

A25. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A22-A24, wherein the second travel surface is within the first horizontal plane in the second position.

A26. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A21, wherein the first longitudinal side is within a first plane and the second longitudinal side is within a second plane, the second plane being different from the first plane.

A27. The toy track set of paragraph A26, wherein, in the first position, the first plane is within a first horizontal plane and the second plane is within a second horizontal plane.

A28. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A26-A27, wherein, in the second position, the first plane is within the second horizontal plane and the second plane is within the first horizontal plane.

A29. The toy track set of any of paragraphs A1-A28, further comprising a third track section connected to the second track section, the third track section having third and fourth longitudinal sides, the third longitudinal side having a third travel surface and the fourth longitudinal side having a fourth travel surface, wherein the third longitudinal side further includes a third retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation.

A30. The toy track set of paragraph A29, wherein the third track section is configured to pivot relative to the second track section between a third position in which (1) the upper travel surface and fourth travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation and (2) the second retention element and the third retention element form a travel path for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation, and a fourth position in which the upper travel surface and third travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation.

A31. The toy track set of paragraph A30, further comprising a pivoting mechanism configured to pivot the third track section between the third and fourth positions.

A32. The toy track set of paragraph A31, wherein the pivoting mechanism includes at least one spring configured to urge the third track section toward one of the third and fourth positions.

A33. The toy track set of paragraph A32, wherein the pivoting mechanism further includes a trigger configured to move between a locked position in which the third track section is maintained in the other of the third and fourth positions against urging of the at least one spring, and a release position in which the third track section is not maintained in the other of the third and fourth positions allowing the at least one spring to urge the third track section toward the one of the third and fourth positions.

A34. The toy track set of paragraph A33, wherein the trigger is positioned such that a toy vehicle travelling on the third travel surface contacts and moves the trigger from the locked position toward the release position.

B1. A toy vehicle track set, comprising:

a frame having opposed first and second end portions, the first end portion having a first connector surface；

a first track section pivotably attached to the frame, the first track section having opposed first and second longitudinal sides, the first longitudinal side having a first travel surface and the second longitudinal side having a second travel surface, wherein the first longitudinal side includes a first retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation； and

a second track section connected to the first end portion of the frame, the second track section having opposed upper and lower longitudinal sides, the upper longitudinal side having an upper travel surface and the lower longitudinal side having a second retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation, wherein the first end portion of the frame further includes a third retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation,

wherein the first track section is configured to pivot relative to the frame and the second track section between a first position in which the first travel surface is contiguous with the first connector surface and the upper travel surface, and a second position in which the second travel surface is contiguous with the first connector surface and the upper travel surface and in which the first retention element is contiguous with the second and third retention elements.

B2. The toy track set of paragraph B1, further comprising a pivoting mechanism configured to pivot the first track section between the first and second positions.

B3. The toy track set of paragraph B2, wherein the pivoting mechanism includes at least one spring configured to bias the first track section toward one of the first and second positions.

B4. The toy track set of paragraph B3, wherein the pivoting mechanism further includes a trigger configured to move between a locked position in which the first track section is secured to the frame in the other of the first and second positions against the biasing of the at least one spring, and a release position in which the first track section is not secured to the frame allowing the at least one spring to bias the first track section toward the one of the first and second positions.

B5. The toy track set of any of paragraphs B1-B4, further comprising one or more additional track sections connected to the second end portion of the frame, the additional track sections include at least one additional travel surface.

B6. The toy track set of paragraph B5, wherein the second end portion of the frame includes a second connector surface.

B7. The toy track set of paragraph B6, wherein the at least one additional travel surface is contiguous with the second connector surface, the first travel surface, the first connector surface, and the upper travel surface in the first position, and the at least one additional travel surface is contiguous with the second connector surface, the second travel surface, the first connector surface, and the upper travel surface in the second position.

B8. The toy track set of any of paragraphs B1-B7, wherein the second longitudinal side does not include a retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation.

B9. The toy track set of paragraph B8, further comprising a receptacle attached to the frame and configured to receive a toy vehicle when the toy vehicle is travelling in an upside-down orientation from the second track section toward the first track section and the first track section is in the first position.

B10. The toy track set of paragraph B9, wherein the receptacle is movably attached to the frame and configured to move between a raised position and a lowered position.

C1. A toy vehicle track set, comprising:

wherein the first track section is configured to pivot relative to the second track section between a first position in which the first travel surface is contiguous with the upper travel surface, and a second position in which the second travel surface is contiguous with the upper travel surface and in which the first retention element is contiguous with the second retention element.

Manner of Operation /Use

During play, a user may place one or more toy vehicles on the starting travel surface, as shown in Fig. 19. The vehicles may be set behind the starting gate with the starting gate in the lowered position. The user may set the pivoting mechanisms in any suitable ways, such as (1) the first pivoting track section in the second position and the second pivoting track section in the third or fourth positions, (2) the first pivoting track section in the first position and the second pivoting track section in the third position (as shown in Fig. 19) , or (3) the first pivoting track section in the first position and the second pivoting track section in the fourth position. The user may then move the starting gate from the lowered position to the lifted position.

Under (1) , the toy vehicle (s) would travel along the second travel surface of the first pivoting track section, the upper travel surface of the intermediate track section (s) , the third or fourth travel surface of the second pivoting track section, and the upper travel surface of the terminal track section (s) until the toy vehicle (s) exit the toy vehicle track set. The first pivoting track section does not pivot under (1) because the first travel surface having the trigger of the first pivoting track section is positioned underneath the path of travel of the toy vehicle (s) . The second pivoting track section does not pivot under (1) because either (a) the third travel surface and the trigger is along the path of travel (which the toy vehicle contacts and moves to the release position) in the third position but the spring of the second pivoting mechanism is in its relaxed state and does not urge the second pivoting track section to the fourth position, or (b) the third travel surface having the trigger of the second pivoting track section is positioned underneath the path of travel of the toy vehicle (s) in the fourth position.

Under (2) , first toy vehicle 400 would travel on to the first travel surface of the first pivoting track section. The slot on the bottom of first toy vehicle 400 receives the first retention element. Additionally, first toy vehicle 400 contacts the trigger of the first pivoting track section, which causes the first pivoting track section to pivot from the first position to the second position, as shown in Fig. 20. In the second position, the first retention element of the first pivoting track section is contiguous with the second retention element of the intermediate track section (s) and the third retention element of the second pivoting track section allowing first toy vehicle 400 to travel from the first pivoting track section to the intermediate track section (s) to the second pivoting track section in an upside-down orientation as shown in Fig. 21. Moreover, the second travel surface is contiguous with the starting travel surface of the starting track section and the upper travel surface of the intermediate track section (s) allowing a second toy vehicle 410 (if behind the first toy vehicle before the starting gate is raised) to travel from the starting travel surface to the second travel surface and the upper travel surface in an upright orientation while first toy vehicle 400 is travelling in an upside-down orientation, as shown in Fig. 21.

When first toy vehicle 400 reaches the second pivoting track section, the first toy vehicle contacts the trigger of the second pivoting track section, which causes the second pivoting track section to pivot from the third position to the fourth position. In the fourth position, the third travel surface of the second pivoting track section is contiguous with the upper travel surface of the terminal track section (s) allowing first toy vehicle 400 to travel from the third travel surface to the upper travel surface of the terminal track section (s) and exit the toy vehicle track set. If the second toy vehicle passes the second pivoting track section before it pivots from the third position to the fourth position, second toy vehicle 410 (when played) travels along the fourth travel surface to the upper travel surface of the terminal track section (s) and exits the toy vehicle track set. Alternatively, if the second toy vehicle passes the second pivoting track section after it pivots from the third position to the fourth position, second toy vehicle 410 travels along the third travel surface to the upper surface of the terminal track section (s) and exits the toy vehicle track set, as shown in Fig. 22. A user may control whether the second toy vehicle travels on the second pivoting track section before or after it pivots from the third position to the fourth position by moving the obstructing teeth between the retracted and extended positions.

Under (3) , first toy vehicle 400 would travel as in (2) except, as first toy vehicle 400 reaches the second pivoting track section, the first toy vehicle detaches (because third retention element of the second pivoting track section is not contiguous with the second retention element) and falls into the receptacle as shown in Fig. 23. Second toy vehicle 410 (if played) travels along the third travel surface to the upper travel surface of the terminal track section (s) and exits the toy vehicle track set.

Although only two toy vehicles are shown in Figs. 19-23, additional toy vehicles may be used. For example, the toy vehicle track set may include a longer starting travel surface. Alternatively, or additionally, a user may place additional toy vehicles on the starting travel surface after the first and second toy vehicles are no longer on that travel surface.

Advantages, Features, Benefits

The different embodiments of the toy track sets for toy vehicles described herein provide several advantages over known toy track sets. For example, the illustrative embodiments of toy track sets described herein allow for toy vehicles to simultaneously travel on opposed sides of one or more track sections in upright and upside-down orientations. Additionally, and among other benefits, illustrative embodiments of the toy track sets described herein allow for moving or pivoting a toy vehicle such that it can enter one side of a track section in an upright orientation or enter an opposite side of a track section in an upside-down orientation. No known system or device can perform these functions. However, not all embodiments described herein provide the same advantages or the same degree of advantage.

Conclusion

The disclosure set forth above may encompass multiple distinct inventions with independent utility. Although each of these inventions has been disclosed in its preferred form (s) , the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense, because numerous variations are possible. To the extent that section headings are used within this disclosure, such headings are for organizational purposes only, and do not constitute a characterization of any claimed invention. The subject matter of the invention (s) includes all novel and nonobvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions, and/or properties disclosed herein. The following claims particularly point out certain combinations and subcombinations regarded as novel and nonobvious. Invention (s) embodied in other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements, and/or properties may be claimed in applications claiming priority from this or a related application. Such claims, whether directed to a different invention or to the same invention, and whether broader, narrower, equal, or different in scope to the original claims, also are regarded as included within the subject matter of the invention (s) of the present disclosure.

Claims

A toy vehicle track set, comprising:

a first track section having first and second longitudinal sides, the first longitudinal side having a first travel surface and the second longitudinal side having a second travel surface, wherein the first longitudinal side includes a first retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation； and

a second track section connected to the first track section, the second track section having upper and lower longitudinal sides, the upper longitudinal side having an upper travel surface and the lower longitudinal side having a second retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation,

wherein the first track section is configured to pivot relative to the second track section between a first position in which the first travel surface and the upper travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation, and a second position in which (1) the second travel surface and the upper travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation and (2) the first retention element and the second retention element form a travel path for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation.
The toy track set of claim 1, further comprising a pivoting mechanism configured to pivot the first track section between the first and second positions.
The toy track set of claim 2, wherein the pivoting mechanism includes at least one spring configured to urge the first track section toward one of the first and second positions.
The toy track set of claim 3, wherein the pivoting mechanism further includes a trigger configured to move between a locked position in which the first track section is maintained in the other of the first and second positions against urging of the at least one spring, and a release position in which the first track section is not maintained in the other of the first and second positions allowing the at least one spring to urge the first track section toward the one of the first and second positions.
The toy track set of claim 4, further comprising a frame having first and second end portions, wherein the first track section is pivotably connected to the frame and the second track section is connected to the first end portion of the frame.
The toy track set of claim 5, wherein the frame includes an opening configured to receive a portion of the trigger, wherein the portion of the trigger is received in the opening in the locked position and is spaced from the opening in the release position.
The toy track set of claim 4, wherein the trigger is positioned such that a toy vehicle travelling on the first travel surface contacts and moves the trigger from the locked position toward the release position.
The toy track set of claim 1, further comprising a third track section connected to the second track section, the third track section having third and fourth longitudinal sides, the third longitudinal side having a third travel surface and the fourth longitudinal side having a fourth travel surface, wherein the third longitudinal side further includes a third retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation.
The toy track set of claim 8, wherein the third track section is configured to pivot relative to the second track section between a third position in which (1) the upper travel surface and fourth travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation and (2) the second retention element and the third retention element form a travel path for a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation, and a fourth position in which the upper travel surface and third travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in an upright orientation.
The toy track set of claim 1, further comprising one or more additional track sections connected to the first track section, the additional track sections include at least one additional travel surface, and the first track section is disposed between the second track section and the additional track sections.
The toy track set of claim 10, wherein the at least one travel surface, the first travel surface, and the upper travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in the first position, and the at least one travel surface, the second travel surface, and the upper travel surface form a continuous travel path for a toy vehicle in the second position.
The toy track set of claim 1, wherein the second longitudinal side does not include a retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation； and the toy track set further comprises a receptacle configured to receive a toy vehicle when (1) the toy vehicle is travelling in an upside-down orientation from the second track section toward the first track section and (2) the first track section is in the first position.
The toy track set of claim 1, wherein the first retention element includes a first I-beam track and the second retention element includes a second I-beam track.
The toy track set of claim 1, further comprising at least one obstruction movably attached to the second track section and configured to move between an extended position in which the obstruction contacts a toy vehicle travelling on the upper travel surface, and a retracted position in which the obstruction does not contact the toy vehicle travelling on the upper travel surface.
A toy vehicle track set, comprising:

a frame having opposed first and second end portions, the first end portion having a first connector surface；

a first track section pivotably attached to the frame, the first track section having opposed first and second longitudinal sides, the first longitudinal side having a first travel surface and the second longitudinal side having a second travel surface, wherein the first longitudinal side includes a first retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation； and

a second track section connected to the first end portion of the frame, the second track section having opposed upper and lower longitudinal sides, the upper longitudinal side having an upper travel surface and the lower longitudinal side having a second retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation, wherein the first end portion of the frame further includes a third retention element configured to retain a toy vehicle in an upside-down orientation,

wherein the first track section is configured to pivot relative to the frame and the second track section between a first position in which the first travel surface is contiguous with the first connector surface and the upper travel surface, and a second position in which (1) the second travel surface is contiguous with the first connector surface and the upper travel surface and (2) the first retention element is contiguous with the second and third retention elements.
The toy track set of claim 15, further comprising a pivoting mechanism configured to pivot the first track section between the first and second positions.
The toy track set of claim 16, wherein the pivoting mechanism includes at least one spring configured to bias the first track section toward one of the first and second positions.
The toy track set of claim 17, wherein the pivoting mechanism further includes a trigger configured to move between a locked position in which the first track section is secured to the frame in the other of the first and second positions against the biasing of the at least one spring, and a release position in which the first track section is not secured to the frame allowing the at least one spring to bias the first track section toward the one of the first and second positions.
The toy track set of claim 18, wherein the second end portion of the frame includes a second connector surface, further comprising one or more additional track sections connected to the second end portion of the frame, the additional track sections include at least one additional travel surface.
The toy track set of claim 19, wherein the at least one additional travel surface is contiguous with the second connector surface, the first travel surface, the first connector surface, and the upper travel surface in the first position, and the at least one additional travel surface is contiguous with the second connector surface, the second travel surface, the first connector surface, and the upper travel surface in the second position.