TOY VEHICLE AND TRACK SYSTEM THEREFOR

Abstract

A toy vehicle has a longitudinal central axis aligned for travel through a passageway of an elongated tubular track having a non-linear pathway which at least partly confines the toy vehicle. The toy vehicle has first plural translational elements spaced about the toy vehicle's longitudinal central axis for engagement with the inner surface of the tubular track. At least one translational element is a drive translational element which drives the toy vehicle through the passageway of the elongated tubular track. Second plural translational elements are spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle for engagement with the curved inner surface of the track, and each of the translational elements of the first and second plural translational elements are independently moveable and are biased in at least an outward radial direction from the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle.

Claims

1. A toy vehicle having a longitudinal central axis aligned in a direction of travel and for travel through a passageway of an elongated tubular track having a non-linear pathway which extends in three dimensions and which at least partly confines said toy vehicle, said toy vehicle comprising: a first plurality of translational elements comprising three or more translational elements spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle for engagement with the inner surface of the elongated tubular track, wherein at least one translational element is a drive translational element which is powered so as to drive the toy vehicle through the passageway of the elongated tubular track; and a second plurality of translational elements comprising three or more translational elements spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle for engagement with the curved inner surface of the elongated tubular track, wherein each of the translational elements of the first plurality of translational elements and each of the translational elements of the second plurality of translation elements are independently moveable in relation to each other and are biased in at least an outward radial direction from the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle, and a control system for controlling at least the operable rotational speed and rotational direction of the at least one drive translational element; wherein upon the toy vehicle travelling through the passageway of the elongated tubular track the translational elements are urged towards the inner surface of the elongated tubular track and such that the at least one drive translational element is urged against and maintained in contact with the inner surface of the elongated tubular track such that the rotation of the at least one drive translational element urges the toy vehicle through the elongated tubular track; wherein upon the toy vehicle travelling through a portion of the passageway of the elongated tubular track having a non-linear pathway, the translational elements move relative to the longitudinal central axis and are urged towards the longitudinal central axis such that the toy vehicle is prevented from impinging upon the inner surface of the elongated tubular track such that the at least one drive translational element is maintained against the inner surface of the elongated tubular track; and wherein upon the toy vehicle exiting the elongated tubular track towards and onto a planar surface and being unconstrained within the elongated tubular track: the toy vehicle rotates under effect of gravity about the longitudinal central axis such that at least one pair of adjacent translational elements of the first plurality of translational elements and at least one translational element of the second plurality of translational elements are operably engaged with the planar surface; and (ii) the control system determines which of the translational elements are engaged with the planar surface by way of a sensor system, and the control system provides power to at least two such translational elements whereby the two such translational elements are on opposed sides of the longitudinal central axis, such that the toy vehicle is drivable and steerable on the planar surface.

2. A toy vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the number of translational elements of the first plurality of translational elements equals the number of translational elements of the second plurality of translational elements.

3. A toy vehicle according to claim 1, wherein each translational element of the first plurality of translational elements is collinear with a corresponding translational element of the second plurality of translational elements in the direction of the longitudinal central axis.

4. A toy vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the first plurality of translational elements comprises 3 translational elements, and wherein the second plurality of translational elements comprises 3 translational elements.

5. A toy vehicle according to claim 1, wherein upon the toy vehicle exiting the elongated tubular track towards a planar surface and thereby being unconstrained within the elongated tubular track, the toy vehicle rotates under effect of gravity about the longitudinal central axis such that a pair of adjacent translational elements of the first plurality of translational elements and a corresponding pair of translational elements of the second plurality of translational elements are operably engaged with the planar surface.

6. A toy vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the control system directs power to a pair of adjacent translational elements of the first plurality of translational elements.

7. (canceled)

8. A toy vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the translational elements of the first plurality of translation elements are equally spaced radially about the longitudinal central axis, and wherein the translational elements of the second plurality of translational elements are equally spaced radially about the longitudinal central axis.

9. A toy vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the first plurality of translational elements is carried by a corresponding first translational assembly located at a first position on the longitudinal central axis and wherein the second plurality of translational elements is carried by a corresponding second translational assembly located at a second position on the longitudinal central axis.

10. A toy vehicle according to claim 9, wherein the first translational assembly comprises a plurality of swing arm elements pivotably movable in at least an outward radial direction and each being coplanar with the longitudinal central axis, wherein the radially outer end of each swing arm carries thereon a translational element of the first plurality of translational elements, and wherein the second translational assembly comprises a plurality of swing arm elements pivotably movable in at least an outward radial direction and each being coplanar with the longitudinal central axis, wherein the radially outer end of each swing arm carries thereon a translational element of the second plurality of translational elements.

11. A toy vehicle according to claim 10, wherein the translational elements are comprised of two wheels, and wherein each of said two wheels is disposed on laterally and external of the outer radial end of the swing arms.

12. A toy vehicle according to claim 10, comprising a drive assembly for driving the translational elements, whereby the drive assembly comprises an electric motor and a gear train, and whereby the gear train drives the translational elements, wherein an electric motor is provided to power each pair of collinear translational elements of the first plurality of translational elements and the corresponding second plurality of translational elements, and wherein the control system provides electrical power to the electric motors which drive the translational elements engaged with the planar surface.

13. (canceled)

14. (canceled)

15. A toy vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the control system includes a wireless communications module communicable with an external remote control communications device, such that: the speed and direction of the toy vehicle whilst within the elongated tubular track are controllable by varying the speed and direction of the drive translational elements; and wherein (ii) the speed and direction of the toy vehicle whilst external of the elongated tubular track are controllable by varying the speed and direction of the at least two translational elements engaged with the planar surface, and the toy vehicle is steerable by differential speeds of said at least two translational elements.

16. A toy vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the elongated tubular track includes a curved inner surface.

17-26. (canceled)

27. A toy vehicle having a longitudinal central axis and for travel through a passageway of an elongated tubular track having a circular transverse cross section with a curved inner surface and which at least party confines said toy vehicle, said toy vehicle comprising: at least one first plurality of translational elements spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle for engagement with the curved inner surface of the track, wherein at least one of the translational elements is a drive translational element which is powered so as to drive the toy vehicle through the passageway of the elongated tubular track; and at least one second plurality of translational elements spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle for engagement with the curved inner surface of the elongated tubular track, wherein the translational elements of the first plurality of translational elements and of the second plurality of translation elements are moveable and biased in at least an outward radial direction from the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle such that upon the toy vehicle travelling through a portion of the elongated tubular track having a non-linear pathway, the at least one drive translational elements is maintained in contact with the curved inner surface of the elongated tubular track such that motion of the toy vehicle through the elongated tubular track is maintained and such that the toy vehicle is prevented from impinging upon the inner surface of the elongated tubular track.

28-44. (canceled)

45. A tubular track system, comprising an elongated tubular track for use in conjunction with the toy vehicle according to claim 27.

46. A tubular track system according to claim 45, wherein the tubular track system is modular.

47. (canceled)

48. A tubular track system according to claim 45, wherein the tubular track system is a three dimensional arrangement.

49. A tubular track system according to claim 45, wherein the tubular track system is an open system opening to a planar surface, to provide entry of the toy vehicle into the tubular track system from a planar surface and exit from the tubular track system to the planar surface.

50. A tubular track system according to claim 49, wherein the tubular track system further includes a flared entry element for entry of the toy vehicle to the tubular track system.

51. (canceled)

52. A tubular track system according to claim 45, further including peripheral containment members, whereby the peripheral containment members define a play area therein and comprises a generally elongated perimeter structure having a concave inner lip portion extending upwardly for containing the toy vehicle within the play area.

53. (canceled)

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0068] The present invention will become more fully understood from the following detailed description of a preferred but non-limiting embodiment thereof, described in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0069] FIG. 1 shows a perspective representation of a first embodiment of a toy vehicle according to the present invention;

[0070] FIG. 2a shows a side view of the first embodiment of a toy vehicle of FIG. 1, without an external housing;

[0071] FIG. 2b shows an end view of the embodiment of the toy vehicle of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2a;

[0072] FIG. 3a shows an end view of the first embodiment of a toy vehicle according to the present invention within a tubular track;

[0073] FIG. 3b shows a part-sectional side view of FIG. 3a, whereby the section is taken along line A-A of FIG. 3a;

[0074] FIG. 4a shows an end view of the first embodiment of a toy vehicle according to the present invention outside of the tubular track and on a planar surface;

[0075] FIG. 4b shows a part-sectional side view of FIG. 4a, whereby the section is taken along line A-A of FIG. 4a;

[0076] FIG. 4c depicts the toy vehicle of FIG. 4a and FIG. 4b traversing a bend in a tubular track;

[0077] FIG. 5a shows a perspective view of the first embodiment of the toy vehicle in accordance with the present invention exiting a tubular track;

[0078] FIG. 5b shows an end view of the toy vehicle of FIG. 5a exiting a tubular track;

[0079] FIG. 5c shows the toy vehicle of FIG. 5a partially exited of the tubular track;

[0080] FIG. 5d shows the toy vehicle of FIG. 5a and FIG. 5b and FIG. 5c having completely exited the tubular track

[0081] FIG. 6a shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of a control module for a toy vehicle in accordance with the present invention;

[0082] FIG. 6b shows a schematic representation of a remote control communications device for wireless communication with the control module of FIG. 6a;

[0083] FIG. 7 shows a further configuration of a tubular track for use with a toy vehicle in accordance with the present invention;

[0084] FIG. 8 shows a further configuration of a tubular track system for use with a toy vehicle in accordance with the present invention having a flared entry element having concave inner lips and guidance grooves and protrusions and peripheral containment members with concave inner lips enclosing an open, extraneous play area;

[0085] FIG. 9 shows the flared entry element of FIG. 8 and with concave inner lips and guidance grooves and protrusions of FIG. 8;

[0086] FIG. 10a shows a first example of a tubular track element for the tubular track in accordance with the present invention;

[0087] FIG. 10b shows a second example of a tubular track element for the tubular track in accordance with the present invention;

[0088] FIG. 10c shows a third example of a tubular track element for the tubular track in accordance with the present invention;

[0089] FIG. 11 shows a schematic representation of a toy vehicle and tubular track system according to the present invention; and

[0090] FIG. 12 shows a fourth example of a tubular track system accordance with the present invention; and

[0091] FIG. 13 shows a further example of a tubular track system in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0092] The present invention is directed to a toy vehicle and a track system, which provides for enhanced play appeal to users in comparison with those of the prior art.

[0093] The present invention provides for a toy vehicle which is capable of being operable both within a tubular track and on a ground surface external of and extraneous or external to such a tubular track. In particular, embodiments of the present invention provide for a toy vehicle and track system therefor, including an elongated tubular track, wherein the toy vehicle is operable and is capable of at least both of the following: [0094] (i) Traversing substantial bends when travelling through an elongated tubular track without impingement or jamming and without loss of traction; and [0095] (ii) Being both drivable and steerable on a planar surface outside of the elongated tubular track upon exiting the elongated tubular track, whereby the planar surface may include undulations or inclinations.

[0096] Although the term planar has been used with reference to the area external of the tubular track, those skilled in the art will understand that the planar surface may include undulations and inclinations, and the term planar does not preclude three dimensional planar surface. As such, the term planar in the present invention is not limited or restricted to two dimensional planar playing areas.

[0097] In particular, irrespective of the orientation of the toy vehicle about its longitudinal central axis upon exiting the elongated tubular track and being disposed on the extraneous planar surface outside of the tubular track system, the toy vehicle is both drivable and steerable on such an extraneous planar surface.

[0098] Furthermore, in embodiments of the present invention, the toy vehicle is steerable and the tubular track system adapted so as to allow and provide for re-entry of the toy vehicle into the tubular track system.

[0099] Furthermore, the present invention provides for a tubular track system having design freedom irrespective of the confines of the area in which the system is to be deployed and utilized, and provides design freedom for a user for configuring the tubular track system layout based on the available play area as well as on user desirability.

[0100] The provision of a toy vehicle capable of both travel through both a non-linear elongated tubular track and also capable of travelling on a planar surface external to an elongated tubular track and to have controllability and steerability as provided by the present invention, the dual functionality which is distinguished from and not provided by other toy vehicles and systems thereof within art and the features which provide for such duality are not suggested, hinted of or anticipated within the prior art for such a dual environment functional toy vehicle.

[0101] Further, embodiments of the present invention also provide for enhanced configurability of a tubular track system, with increased versatility and flexibility for utilization of the physical environment in which the tubular track system is deployed and as such, provides for increased creativity in track system configurations. As such, increased interest and play appeal is provided by such versatility. Accordingly, in addition to a system whose geometry and shape is not limited to a physical environment of deployment, the provision for a multiplicity of configurations also allows users to provide user-defined track layouts, which provides for enhanced user or player interest.

[0102] Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention allow for the track system to be configured in a three-dimensional arrangement, thus providing: [0103] (i) enhanced utilization of the physical play area in which the system is deployed, [0104] (ii) enhanced flexibility in track configuration design layout, and [0105] (iii) utilsation of a planar surface in addition to the tubular track, for the play domain.

[0106] In accordance with the present invention, the toy vehicle comprises a first plurality of translational elements comprising three or more translational elements spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle for engagement with the inner surface of the track, and a second plurality of translational elements comprising three or more translational elements spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle for engagement with the curved inner surface of the track.

[0107] At least one translational element is a drive translational element which is powered so as to drive the toy vehicle through the passageway of the elongated tubular track.

[0108] Each of the translational elements of the first plurality of translational elements and each of the translational elements of the second plurality of translation elements are independently moveable in relation to each other, and are biased in at least an outward radial direction from the longitudinal axis of the toy vehicle.

[0109] In use and upon the toy vehicle travelling through a/the passageway of the elongated tubular track, the translational elements are urged towards the curved inner surface of the elongated tubular track such that the at least one drive translational element is urged against and maintained in contact with the curved inner surface of the elongated tubular track and such that rotation of the at least one drive translational element urges the toy vehicle through the elongated tubular track.

[0110] Further, upon the toy vehicle travelling through a portion of the passageway of the elongated tubular track having a non-linear pathway, the translational elements move relative to the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle and are urged towards the longitudinal central axis of the vehicle such that the toy vehicle is prevented from impinging upon the inner surface of the elongated tubular track and such that the at least one drive translational element is maintained against the inner surface of the elongated tubular track.

[0111] Upon the toy vehicle exiting the elongated tubular track towards a planar surface and being unconstrained within the elongated tubular track: [0112] (i) at least one pair of adjacent translational elements of the first plurality of translational elements and at least one translational element of the second plurality of translational elements are operably engaged with the planar surface; and [0113] (ii) the control system includes a sensor device and sensor system that determines which of the translational elements are engaged with the planar surface and provides power to the at least two such translational elements whereby the two such translational elements are on opposed sides of the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle, such that the toy vehicle is drivable and steerable on the planar surface.

[0114] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2a and 2b, there is shown an embodiment of a toy vehicle 100 in accordance with the present invent. In FIG. 1, there is a body member 101 and drive train guards 104 shown which are omitted in FIGS. 2a and 2b to allow for ease of explanation.

[0115] The toy vehicle 100 has a longitudinal central axis 130 aligned with a direction of travel through a passageway of an elongated tubular track having a non-linear pathway which extends in three dimensions and which at least partly confines said toy vehicle 100.

[0116] The toy vehicle 100 has a longitudinal central axis 130, and is capable of travelling through a passageway of a tubular track. The tubular track may have different cross sections, and the travel ability of the toy vehicle 100 is not limited to any particular cross-section or geometry. In the present embodiment, the toy vehicle may travel though a tubular track having a circular transverse cross section with a curved inner surface.

[0117] The toy vehicle 100 includes a first plurality of translation elements 110 spaced about the longitudinal central axis 130 of the toy vehicle 100 for engagement with the curved inner surface of the track, and further includes a second plurality of translation elements 120 spaced about the longitudinal central axis 130 of the toy vehicle 100 for engagement with the curved inner surface of the track.

[0118] In the present embodiment, the first plurality of translational elements comprises 3 translational elements 110, and the second plurality of translational elements comprises 3 translational elements 120. However, in other and alternate embodiments, there may be greater than 3 translational elements for each of the plurality of translational elements.

[0119] In the present embodiment, all of the translational elements are drive translational element which are powered so as to drive the toy vehicle through the passageway of the elongated tubular track.

[0120] Each of the translational elements of the first plurality of translational elements 110 and each of the translational elements of the second plurality of translation elements 120 are independently moveable in relation to each other and are biased in at least an outward radial direction from the longitudinal central axis 130 of the toy vehicle 100.

[0121] Such movable and radially outwardly biased translation elements 110, 120, provide that upon the toy vehicle 100 travelling through a portion of the track having a non-linear pathway, at least one drive translational element is maintained in contact with the curved inner surface of the elongated tubular track such that motion of the toy vehicle 100 through the elongated tubular track is maintained, and also provides that the toy vehicle 100 is prevented from impinging upon the inner surface of the elongated tubular track.

[0122] Thus, the translational elements 110, 120 that are radially moveable independently with respect to each other allows for the toy vehicle 100 to pass through tight bends or turns of the tubular track, and that the toy vehicle 100 does not become impinged upon passing through non-linear portions of the tubular track.

[0123] A first translational assembly located at a first position on the longitudinal central axis track includes a first plurality of swing arm elements 140 which carries the first plurality of translation elements 110, and the second plurality of translational elements 120 is carried by a corresponding second translational assembly located at a second position on the longitudinal central axis which includes a second plurality of swing arm elements 150.

[0124] The first plurality of swing arm elements 140 are pivotably movable in at least an outward radial direction and each being coplanar with the longitudinal central axis 130 of the toy vehicle 100, and the second plurality of swing arm elements 150 are also pivotably movable in at least an outward radial direction and each being coplanar with the longitudinal central axis.

[0125] In the present embodiment, the toy vehicle 100 includes a power supply 170 which powers a plurality of electric motors 160 each of which drives a corresponding worm gear 180.

[0126] A corresponding plurality of drive trains 190 drives each of the translational elements 110, 120 in the present embodiment, whereby each of the translational elements is a pair of wheel elements. However, in alternate embodiments each translational element may be a single wheel element or other type of translational element.

[0127] In order for the translational elements 110 and 120 to be outwardly radially biased, a biasing element is provided, such as helical coil spring, leaf spring, spiral spring, air spring or flexural element or the like.

[0128] As shown representatively in FIG. 4c, the biasing elements independently urge the swing arm elements 140, 150 radially outwardly, which in turn urges the translational elements 110 and 120 against the inner surface 105 of a tube 102 through which the toy vehicle 100 is travelling, and such that the toy vehicle can traverse through portions of the tube which have twists and turns in three dimensions.

[0129] According, the present invention provides the at least the four functions of: [0130] (i) maintaining traction in a straight portion of the tube, [0131] (ii) maintaining traction when the toy vehicle 100 passes through a curved portion of the tube which may curve in three dimensions, [0132] (iii) maintaining traction in the event of minor/non-material variances in tube diameter both in straight and curved portions of the tube, and [0133] (iv) preventing impingement of the toy vehicle 100 when passing through curved portions of the tube, in particular in the event of large changes in the direction of travel through the tube.

[0134] In the present embodiment, all the translational elements 110 and 120 are driven translational elements, however in other and alternate embodiments, some of the first translational elements 110 may be driven translational elements, some of the second translational elements 120 may be driven translational elements, or combinations thereof.

[0135] Importantly, driven translational elements are provided for such that irrespective of which translational elements contact a ground surface upon the toy vehicle existing the tube, the vehicle may be driven external of the tube, as discussed in further detail below.

[0136] Referring to FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b, there is shown the toy vehicle 100 disposed within the passageway 103 of a circular tubular track 102. The radially outwardly biased swing arm elements 140, 150, urge the translational elements 110, 120 against the inner curved surface 105 of the circular tubular track 102.

[0137] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, FIG. 3b is a sectional view of FIG. 3a along line A-A and as such, whilst the translational elements 110, 120 are engaged with the inner curved surface 105 of the circular tubular track 102, in FIG. 3b the sectional view through the tube as depicted is not the region at which the translational elements 110, 120 are engaged with the inner curved surface 105 of the circular tubular track 102 and as such, the translational elements are not easily visualized as touching the sectioned portion of the tube track 102 and are depicted in a true spatial relationship with the inner curved surface 105 along line A-A.

[0138] As shown in FIG. 3a and FIG. 3b, the swing arm elements 140, 150 are inclined to the longitudinal central axis at angle B and at such an angle the translational elements 110, 120 are urged against the curved inner surface 105 of the circular tubular track 102.

[0139] As is apparent to those skilled in the art, the translational elements 110, 120, by being rotatable about an axis normal to the radial outward direction from the longitudinal central axis 130 of the toy vehicle, when rotating upon being powered by the toy vehicle 100, urge the toy vehicle through the passageway 103 of the tubular track 102.

[0140] When the toy vehicle is non-constrained by the tubular track and is on a planar surface 106 as depicted in FIGS. 4a and 4b, the swing arm elements 140, 150, will extend further radially outwardly than when constrained within the tubular track. As is evident, the swing arm elements 140, 150 are inclined to the longitudinal central axis at angle C, whereby angle C is greater than angle B of FIGS. 3a and 3b.

[0141] As is also apparent to those skilled in the art, the translational elements 110, 120, by being rotatable about an axis normal to the radial outward direction from the longitudinal central axis 130 of the toy vehicle, contact the planar surface 106 at points D and E, and when rotating upon being powered by the toy vehicle 100, urge the toy vehicle along the planar surface 106.

[0142] Accordingly, the radial outwardly dispose and moveable translational elements 110, 120 of the present invention, can drive the toy vehicle 100 both (i) through the passageway 103 of the tubular track 102 and (ii) along the planar surface 106.

[0143] As is shown in FIGS. 3b and 4b, the toy vehicle includes a drive train 145 comprised of a plurality of spur gears 145a, 145b, 145c, 145d and 145e (not shown), for driving the translational elements 110, 120. In the present embodiment, the swing arm elements 140, 150, are of equal length and have a common pivot axis about which they hingedly move so as to provide the radial movement of the translation elements.

[0144] The central spur gear 145c drives intermediate spur gears 145b and 145d, which in turn drive spur gears 145a and 145e whose axis of rotation is coincident with the axis or rotation of the translational elements 110, 120 and which are fixedly rotationally engaged therewith.

[0145] A further gear 146 is a worm gear which is driven by an electric motor 180, (IRRELEVANT), and which causes the central spur gear 145c to be driven and which in turn drives the spur gears 145b and 145d which in turn drive the spur gears 145a and 145e which in turn drive the translational elements 110, 120, so as to propel the toy vehicle both through the passageway 103 of the tubular track 102 and also propel the toy vehicle along the planar surface 106.

[0146] In the present embodiment, 3 separate electric motors 180 independently drive each of the three worm gears which drive the corresponding drive trains. The spur gears 145a, 145b, 145c, 145d and 145e have the same number of teeth as each other and as such, the angular or rotational speed of the first translational element 110 and the corresponding second translational element 120 of the same angular position will be the same. Accordingly, the first translational element 110 and the corresponding second translational element 120 of the same angular position disposed about the longitudinal central axis 130 will have the same linear speed, as the corresponding first translational element 110 and the second translational element 120 have the same radius.

[0147] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, by altering the speed of the electric motors with respect to the other electric motors, the first translational element 110 and the corresponding second translational element 120 aligned in the direction of the longitudinal central axis 130 of the toy vehicle 100 can have a different speed to that of another first translational element 110 and corresponding second translational element 120.

[0148] Accordingly, the toy vehicle 100 can be steered when being driven on a planar surface 106 by varying the speeds of the electric motors. As such, a notionally left pair of corresponding first translational element 110 and second translational element 120, if driven at a lesser speed than a notionally right pair of corresponding first translational element 110 and second translational element 120, will cause the vehicle to be steered to the left. As will be understood, by having differential rotational speeds of left translational elements and right translational elements which are engaged with the planar surface at points D and E, it thereby allows for the toy vehicle to be both driven and steered on the planar surface 106.

[0149] As shown in FIG. 5a, a toy vehicle 100 in accordance with the present invention is depicted as exiting a tubular track 560. As will be readily understood, the toy vehicle 100 may be at any orientation when travelling through the tubular track 560, and the orientation will invariably alter due to the toy vehicle traversing differently orientated portions of the track whilst travelling therethrough.

[0150] As such, the translational elements 110a, 110b and 110c will not necessarily be in a position such that when the toy vehicle 100 exists the tubular track 560 so as any two translational elements will be immediately engaged with a planar surface upon exiting.

[0151] Referring to FIG. 5b, FIG. 5c and FIG. 5d, there is shown the manner in which a toy vehicle 100 progressively re-orientates when exiting the tubular track 560, showing an end view of the toy vehicle of FIG. 5c exiting a tubular track 560 onto a planar surface 520.

[0152] As shown in FIG. 5b, the toy vehicle 100, when in the tubular track 560, is oriented in a random angle of rotation and in a first state as shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b. Upon initial exit as shown in FIG. 5c, a first translational element 110a is initially in contact and engages with the planar surface 520 at point F, whilst a second translational element 110b is above the planar surface 520.

[0153] Due to the effect of gravity and due to the translational elements 110a, 110b and 110c extending sufficiently radially outward from the body of the toy vehicle, the toy vehicle rotates about its longitudinal central axis such that the second translational element 110b is in contact and engaged with the planar surface 520 at point G in FIG. 5d.

[0154] In the present embodiment, the radial disposition of the translational elements 110a, 110b ,110c provides that irrespective of the orientation of the toy vehicle upon exiting the tubular track 560, a pair of corresponding and linearly aligned first and second translational elements are engaged with the planar surface 520, thus allowing the vehicle to be driveable on the planar surface 520.

[0155] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, rotation under gravity will occur so that two of the translational elements will always become readily in contact and engaged with the planar surface 520.

[0156] The toy vehicle as presently described with reference to FIGS. 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d is in keeping with the toy vehicle as described with reference to the embodiment as described with reference to FIG. 1 a, FIG. 1 b, FIG. 2a, FIG. 2b, FIG. 3a, FIG. 3b, FIG. 4a and FIG. 4b, in that it includes the swing arm elements providing relative movement of the translation elements in at least the radial direction so as to allow the toy vehicle to traverse non-linear portions of the tubular track without impingement or jamming and simultaneously without loss of traction, as at least one drive translational element is maintained in contact with the curved inner surface of the elongated tubular track and the motion of the toy vehicle is maintained.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 6a there is shown a schematic representation of an embodiment of a control module 600 for a toy vehicle 100 of FIGS. 1 to 5d according to the present preferred embodiment, and referring to FIG. 6b there is shown a schematic representation of a remote control communications device 650 for wireless communication with the control module 600 for controlling the toy vehicle.

[0158] As shown in FIG. 6a, the control module 600 which is carried by the toy vehicle, is in communication with a first motor 604, a second motor 605, a third motor 606, a first sensor 601, a second sensor 602 and a third sensor 603 which are also carried by the toy vehicle 100

[0159] The sensors are 601, 602, 603 are disposed on the toy vehicle, such that the controller can determine which of the translational elements such as in FIG. 5d are engaged with the planar surface. The sensor may be selected from the group including an optical proximity sensor, pressure sensor, micro switch or the like.

[0160] Upon the controller 600 determining which of which of the translational elements are engaged with the planar surface, the controller determines which of motors 604, 605, 606 are required to drive the translational elements such that the toy car can be driven and steered on the planar surface. As will be understood, when the toy vehicle exits the tubular track, in order for the vehicle to be driveable and steerable, the requisite translational elements are required to be powered. As discussed above, differential speed of the translational elements permits the toy vehicle to be steered on the planar surface, and upon determination by the control system by way of a microcontroller unit (MCU) 607 of the orientation of the toy vehicle, the appropriate motors may be powered by a motor driver 608

[0161] The control system 600 in FIG. 6a further includes an RF (radio frequency) receiver module 609, in communication with the MCU 607 and in wireless communication with a remote control communications device 650 of FIG. 6b.

[0162] The remote control communications device 650 includes an RF (radio frequency) transmitter module 651 which is in wireless communication with the RF (radio frequency) receiver module 609 so as to control the toy vehicle remotely.

[0163] The remote control communications device 650 further includes a user interface for controlling the toy vehicle. In the present embodiment, the user interface is provided by a left track control 653 and a right track control which controls a notional left and right pair of translational elements and thus provides a user the ability to drive and steer the toy car in a manner similar to the manner in which a military tank vehicle is controlled, including speed, forward/reverse and steering left and right. In other and alternate embodiments, other user interfaces may be provided to allow a user to control the toy vehicle.

[0164] Referring to FIG. 7, there is shown a configuration of a tubular track 700 for use with a toy vehicle in accordance with the present invention. As shown, the tubular track 700 is placed on a planar surface 720 defining an open and extraneous play area, and has openings 730 and 750 through which a toy vehicle may exit or enter the tubular track 700.

[0165] Referring to FIG. 8, there is shown a further configuration of a tubular track 800 on a planar surface 810 for use with a toy vehicle in accordance with the present invention having a flared entry element as an entry funnel 850 and peripheral skirt 840 which defines a play area within a perimetered area as prescribed by the peripheral skirt 840.

[0166] The entry funnel 850 provides assistance for toy vehicles to enter the tubular track 800, and the peripheral skirt 840 includes a concave curved and upwardly extending surface upon which a toy vehicle may at least partially travel there along, so as to be retained within a prescribed play area. The play area allows for two or more toy vehicles which are individually controllable to be used at the same time so as to provide a competitive racing environment.

[0167] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the entry funnel 850 may be formed integrally with the peripheral skirt 840 without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 9, a detailed view of an embodiment of the entry funnel 920 of FIG. 8 is shown, whereby the entry funnel includes an entry aperture 922 through which a toy vehicle may pass so as to enter the tubular track, and includes a plurality of guidance portions 924 converging towards the tubular track to guide the toy vehicle towards the tubular track from the planar surface or play area, wherein the guidance portions are a series of converging grooves and/or protrusions. The entry funnel 920 includes an upwardly extending curved lip 926 so as to further guide the toy vehicle towards the entry aperture 922.

[0169] As will be appreciated, the tubular track may be modular and configurable by a user, and various tubular elements may be incorporated, such as a U-bend as shown in FIG. 10a, and S-bend as shown in FIG. 10b or a loop element as shown in FIG. 10c. Other elements may also be utilized and incorporated, such as bends, u-bends, corkscrew elements and the like.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 11, there is shown a schematic representation of an example of a toy vehicle and tubular track system 1100 according to the present invention. The system 1100 includes a tubular track 1120 and a play area 1160 similar as described above in reference to FIG. 8. In the present example, two toy vehicles 1140a and 1140b are provided, each having respective remote controls 1180a and 1180b for controlling the toy vehicles 1140a and 1140b, so as to be able to traverse the play area 1160 and exit and enter the tubular track 1120. As with other embodiments, the tubular track 1120 may be formed of individual tubular elements, such that the tubular track may be assembled and configured by a user.

[0171] FIG. 12 shows a tubular track 1200 for use with a toy vehicle in accordance with the present invention. The tubular track 1200 sits on a ground surface 1220 and is depicted as extending in a vertical direction. The tubular track includes a plurality of sections which include U-bend sections 1230, inclined sections 1240, straight vertical sections 1250 and straight, horizontal sections 1260.

[0172] In embodiments of the invention, the tubular track 1200 is modular and can be configured to a user-preferred arrangement. The tubular track 1200 may extend in three dimensions and may be inclined at various angles and inclinations.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 13, there is shown a schematic representation of an example of a track system 1300 according to the present invention. The system 1300 includes a tubular track 1340 which include an exit end 1360 for a toy vehicle of the present invention to exit therefrom, and an entry funnel 1350 for the toy vehicle to enter the tubular track 1360. The system 1300 further includes a plurality of track extension elements 1370a, 1370b and 1370c.

[0174] The system is deployed in a zone 1310 defied by a vertical perimetrical wall 1390 which defines a play area 1330 as a planar surface. In the present example, the perimetrical wall 1390 has a first aperture 1320 and a second aperture 1320b which defines a pathway therebetween. The zone 1310 may be a room, such as a living room, and the first aperture 1320 and the second aperture 1320b may be doorways which define a pathway through which a person may walk traverse.

[0175] The track extension elements 1370a, 1370b and 1370c are deployed in the zone 1310 and a play pathway extends from the exit end 1360 of the tubular track 1340, through extension element 1370a, through extension element 1370c and through extension element 1370b) back to entry funnel 1350. As such, a toy vehicle may be driven through the track system 1300 which allows for the system 1300 to utilise a large play area within the zone 1310.

[0176] Accordingly, the system may be utilized to optimize the area in which it is deployed, in three dimensions, whereby the tubular track 1340 can be configured in an applicable area whereby it does not obstruct the pathway between the apertures 1320 and 1320a, whilst further utilizing play area 1330 by virtue of the track extension elements 1370a, 1370b and 1370c, such that a person may walk between apertures 1320 and 1320a without being obstructed by any physical elements or components of the system 1300.

[0177] As such, the system 1300 provides versatility to use a three dimensional region, for example within a living room, so as to take advantage of both the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the room, whilst maintaining play appeal to users while simultaneously minimizing any reduction of utility of the zone 1310 for other people/users of the space. This is in contrast to systems of the prior art, whereby a track requires a relatively large designated area to be laid out upon, which typically takes up a large two dimensional area of a room, causes obstruction to persons traversing or utilizing the room, and is typically required to be disassembled and packed away when not in use in order to maximize overall utility of the space/zone.

[0178] In embodiments of the system, the track extension elements 1370a, 1370b and 1370c can be provided as slalom gates, and users are required to drive the toy vehicle therethrough, and cannot progress to a next gate until passing through a previous gate. Alternatively, a user may be required to re-enter and pass through the tubular track 1340 in order to be eligible to attempt to pass through the gates again.

[0179] In other embodiments, there may be provided electronic detectors for determining if a toy vehicle does successfully pass through a gate, and there may be provided functionality for electronic score keeping of successful passes though gates.

[0180] Two or more vehicles can be utilized at the same time, and a race type game may ensue whereby persons may compete against each other in order to pass through as many gates within a predefined time period. Numerous play/game schemes may be implemented for the system, and various configurations may be deployed to increase the difficulty and enhance player interest.

[0181] In other or alternate embodiments of the present invention, the toy vehicle may be comprised of one main drive portion located at a first position on the longitudinal central axis for driving the toy vehicle through the passage of the tubular track, and one stabilization portion located at a second position on the longitudinal central axis.

[0182] In such an example, the drive portion may include three or more translational elements, such as wheels, for engagement with the curved inner surface of the track.

[0183] The translational elements may be spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle, preferably equally, and the translational elements allow for the toy vehicle to move through the passageway.

[0184] At least one of the translational elements may be a drive translational element which is powered so as to drive the toy vehicle through the passageway of the elongated tubular track upon engagement with the curved inner surface. Other translational elements may be non-driven and be nominated as stabilization translational elements.

[0185] The translational elements may be radially outwardly biased by way of a biasing means, such that when the toy vehicle is confined within the passageway the translational elements are urged against the curved inner surface so as to enhance traction between at least one drive translational element and the curved inner surface of the elongated tubular track.

[0186] The stabilization portion may include three or more translational elements for engagement with the curved inner surface of the elongated tubular track. The translational elements may be spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle, preferably equally spaced thereabout.

[0187] The translational elements may also be radially outwardly biased by way of a biasing means, such that when the toy vehicle is confined within the passageway, the translational elements are urged against the curved inner surface of the elongate tubular track.

[0188] The main drive portion and the stabilization portion are moveable relative to each other in at least a radial direction from the longitudinal central axis. A movement element such as the drive portion and stabilization portion being moveable relative to each other.

[0189] In such an example, the drive translational elements are substantially equally spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle, and the stabilization translational elements are also substantially equally spaced about the longitudinal central axis of the toy vehicle.

[0190] Those skilled in the art will understand that although the drive translational elements, although preferably being aligned with each other in a plane normal to the longitudinal central axis, they need not necessarily be co-planar, and some degree of longitudinal offset is permissible provided requisite engagement with the curved inner surface is provided. Similarly, the stabilization translational elements need not necessarily be co-planar, again permissible provided requisite engagement with the curved inner surface is provided

[0191] As will be noted and appreciated by those skilled in the art, the longitudinal central axis of the toy car passes notionally through the centre of the tubular track.

[0192] In accordance with the present invention as described above an in reference to the above embodiments, there is provided a toy vehicle which is capable of being operable both within a tubular track and on a planar ground surface external of and extraneous to such a tubular track.

[0193] Although the term planar has been used with reference to the area external of the tubular track, those skilled in the art will understand that the planar surface may include undulations and inclinations, and the term planar does not preclude three dimensional planar surface. As such, the term planar in the present invention is not limited or restricted to two dimensional planar playing areas.

[0194] In particular, embodiments of the present invention provide for a toy vehicle and track system therefor, including a tubular track, wherein the toy vehicle is operable and is capable of at least both of the following: [0195] (i) Traversing substantial bends when travelling through a tubular track without impingement or jamming and without loss of traction; and [0196] (ii) Being both drivable and steerable on a planar surface outside of the tubular track upon exiting the tubular track, whereby the planar surface may include undulations or inclinations.

[0197] Advantageously, irrespective of the orientation of the toy vehicle about its longitudinal central axis upon exiting the tubular track and being disposed on the extraneous planar surface outside of the tubular track, the toy vehicle is both drivable and steerable on such an extraneous planar surface.

[0198] Furthermore, the present invention provides for a tubular track system which can also be configured in the vertical dimension, thus allowing an increased efficiency of usable space in which the system may be deployed. Furthermore, in an embodiment having track extension elements, there is provided a system usable in a larger two dimensional area such as a room, in addition to the third vertical dimension, without causing disruption and inconvenience by physically occupying a relatively large two dimensional area, such as is typically required by track systems of the prior art.

[0199] A toy vehicle capable of travel through a non-linear three dimensional elongated tubular track and also embodiments which are capable of travelling on a planar surface external to an elongated tubular track and to have controllability and steerability as provided by the present invention is new within the art, and the features which provide for such duality are not suggested within the prior art for such a dual environment functional toy vehicle.

[0200] In addition to the above advantages as afforded by the present invention, the following advantages are provided:

Entertainment and Educational Aspects

[0201] For children playing with building and construction toys such as the present invention, either individually, or with friends, or with parents is a proven, age-old, fun way to promote a child's cognitive and academic development.

Active Interaction or Passive Entertainment

[0202] From an active standpoint, building and construction toys actively engage children. Such toys require children to be truly hands-on, and to interact with physical objects and real people in the real world.

[0203] From a passive standpoint, playing with many of today's technology based gadgets and devices may also assist in development in certain ways, such as hand-eye co-ordination. However, they also tend to be more passive and can trap children in a virtual world, as well as restrict true three dimensional spatial awareness and cognition.

[0204] The present invention can provide children with a platform, such as on the floor, for actively arranging and creating their vision of a raceway and play area.

Skills Development

[0205] Playing with building and construction toys requires critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In an ever-changing world with evolving work environments, these are the kinds of skills that are transferable to many future occupations.

Play and Real Life

[0206] Playing with building and construction toys encourages children to actively use their mind and their body to entertain themselves, rather than relying on electronic gadgets and devices to provide mainly passive entertainment, which is typically an emulated virtual reality world. As such, the present invention can help prepare children for academic studies, sports and for their adult working life.

[0207] The present invention, when used by children, provides for such advantages to children by: [0208] (i) Developing fine motor manipulation and strength: When building a tubular track of the present invention, children have to learn how to manipulate modular pieces of tubing, together with elbow joints, quarter-pipe sections and curved sections to create their own play environment. This promotes fine motor control skills in order to position the pieces within a real three dimensional space. [0209] (ii) Enhancing spatial awareness: Building and construction toys help children enhance their visual-spatial skills which is crucial for reading and writing. [0210] (iii) Encouraging critical thinking and reasoning: These skills can help children prepare for a useful and satisfying place in society. [0211] (iv) Requiring focus and patience: Children need to work steadily and carefully to successfully realize their design creations. [0212] (v) Stimulating children's imagination: Building and construction toys allow children to create their own unique play environments. Using their imagination aids cognitive, academic, language and social development. [0213] (vi) Building confidence and self-esteem: Completing a project of their own imagined design creates a sense of pride in their achievement that is not attainable in many other ways. This feeling of pride is earned. It isn't something that can simply be bought or given. These types of accomplishments create a sense of self belief for a child. [0214] (vii) Developing problem solving and decision-making skills: Figuring out a solution to a problem, either by trial and error, or by first formulating a plan or approach strategy, can assist in developing decision-making skills. Whether the plan is totally or partially successful is not the most important outcome. More important is the process, because it encourages an ability to think critically and to make calculated decisions, and to readjust a design as necessary. [0215] (viii) Introducing science principles: Through building, children observe physical principles in action and make their own discoveries about how things work and react in the real, physical world. [0216] (ix) Developing mathematical skills. Pipe and quarter-pipe lengths are in simple ratios to one another and elbow pieces are at set angles. All these modular components can be combined in a multitude of possible combinations to form various environments. Figuring out a design requires skills such as counting, adding and subtracting as well as thinking about basic geometry. [0217] (x) Encouraging socialization skills: Playing with others while creating and completing a physical construction project helps develop teamwork and cooperation skills. These are skills that are valuable throughout life, including in an adult workplace.