U.S. patent application number 11/583214 was filed with the patent office on 2007-05-03 for hand-launchable fluid-boosted toy vehicle.
Invention is credited to Jamie Cheung, Leon Lau, Carson Luo, Phedon Tsiknopolus, Glenn Yu.
Application Number | 20070099541 11/583214 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37963322 |
Filed Date | 2007-05-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070099541 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yu; Glenn ; et al. |
May 3, 2007 |
Hand-launchable fluid-boosted toy vehicle
Abstract
A toy vehicle is provided for launching comprising a body with a
chamber. The chamber has an opening. The chamber releasably holds a
power source (e.g., fluid) under pressure. A covering mechanism is
disposed adjacent the chamber, and is biased to a first position to
cover the opening. The covering mechanism is movable to a second
position for allowing the power source (e.g., fluid) to be
propelled through the opening. The toy vehicle has an actuator
disposed adjacent the covering mechanism operable for movement
between a starting position and an actuating position. In the
starting position, the actuator allows the covering mechanism to
remain in the first position. In the actuating position, the
actuator moves the covering mechanism to the second position. The
toy vehicle has a delay mechanism operatively coupled to the
actuator configured to move the actuator to the actuating position
after a delay or an interval.
Inventors: |
Yu; Glenn; (San Marino,
CA) ; Tsiknopolus; Phedon; (Hawthorne, CA) ;
Cheung; Jamie; (Shen Zhen City, CN) ; Lau; Leon;
(Shen Zhen City, CN) ; Luo; Carson; (Shen Zhen
City, CN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KOLISCH HARTWELL, P.C.
200 PACIFIC BUILDING
520 SW YAMHILL STREET
PORTLAND
OR
97204
US
|
Family ID: |
37963322 |
Appl. No.: |
11/583214 |
Filed: |
October 18, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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60728467 |
Oct 19, 2005 |
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60733043 |
Nov 2, 2005 |
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60775885 |
Feb 22, 2006 |
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60778231 |
Mar 1, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
446/429 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63H 17/264 20130101;
A63H 17/008 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
446/429 |
International
Class: |
A63H 29/00 20060101
A63H029/00 |
Claims
1. A toy vehicle for launching, the toy vehicle comprising: a body
with a chamber having an opening; a covering mechanism disposed
adjacent the chamber, the covering mechanism biased to a first
position to cover the opening, wherein the chamber releasably holds
fluid under pressure, and further wherein the covering mechanism is
movable to a second position for allowing fluid to be propelled
from the chamber through the opening; an actuator disposed adjacent
the covering mechanism, the actuator operable for translational
movement between a starting position and an actuating position, the
actuator in the starting position allowing the covering mechanism
to remain in the first position, and further wherein the actuator
is translationally operable to the actuating position to move the
covering mechanism to the second position; and a delay mechanism
operatively coupled to the actuator, the delay mechanism configured
to move the actuator to the actuating position after a delay.
2. The toy vehicle of claim 1, wherein the covering mechanism
includes a plug disposed adjacent the chamber for covering the
opening, and a lever disposed adjacent the plug, the lever biased
towards a first position for holding the plug to cover the opening
and movable to a second position for releasing the plug to allow
fluid to be propelled from the chamber through the opening.
3. The toy vehicle of claim 1, wherein the covering mechanism
further includes a fluid inlet valve.
4. The toy vehicle of claim 1, wherein the actuator is operable for
translational movement under a biasing force.
5. The toy vehicle of claim 1, wherein the actuator is configured
to be held in the starting position and released at a predetermined
time.
6. The toy vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a holder, wherein
the holder holds the actuator in the starting position.
7. The toy vehicle of claim 1, wherein the delay mechanism is
configured to move the covering mechanism to the second position
after the toy vehicle is launched.
8. The toy vehicle of claim 1, wherein the delay mechanism is
configured to move the covering mechanism to the second position
while the toy vehicle is moving.
9. The toy vehicle of claim 1, wherein the delay mechanism is
configured to move the covering mechanism to the second position
while the toy vehicle is in flight.
10. The toy vehicle of claim 1, wherein the delay mechanism
includes a dampener to control the translational movement of the
actuator.
11. The toy vehicle of claim 10, wherein the dampener controls the
translational movement of the actuator at a substantially constant
rate.
12. The toy vehicle of claim 10, wherein the dampener includes a
pinion operatively coupled to a rack on the actuator.
13. The toy vehicle of claim 1, wherein the chamber includes a
first compartment in fluid communication with the opening, and a
second compartment in fluid communication with the first
compartment at an aperture.
14. The toy vehicle of claim 13, wherein the aperture is positioned
higher than the opening when the launchable body is positioned for
launching.
15. The toy vehicle of claim 13, wherein the second compartment is
configured to hold substantially gas under pressure and the first
compartment is configured to hold substantially liquid under
pressure, and further wherein the first compartment and the second
compartment are configured to allow substantially all of the liquid
to be propelled from the chamber through the opening before
substantially all of the gas is propelled through the opening.
16. The toy vehicle of claim 1, further comprising: a first holding
member mounted to the body; and an elastomeric band for engaging
the holding member so the band can be stretched to a predetermined
position and released causing the projectile toy to launch.
17. The toy vehicle of claim 1, wherein the toy vehicle is a toy
car.
18. The toy vehicle of claim 1, further comprising at least two
fins mounted to the body, the fins arranged for flying.
19. The toy vehicle of claim 1, further comprising a hollow tube in
communication with the chamber, wherein the hollow tube is
configured to release the pressurized fluid after the actuator
moves to the actuating position.
20. The toy vehicle of claim 19, further comprising a launchable
member operatively connected to the hollow tube, the launchable
member being released from the launchable body after the release of
the pressurized fluid through the hollow tube.
21. A toy vehicle for launching, the toy vehicle comprising: a body
with a chamber having an opening; a plug disposed adjacent the
chamber for covering the opening; a lever disposed adjacent the
plug, the lever biased towards a first position for holding the
plug to cover the opening, wherein the chamber releasably holds
fluid under pressure, and further wherein the lever is movable to a
second position for releasing the plug to allow fluid to be
propelled from the chamber through the opening; and an actuator
disposed adjacent the covering mechanism, the actuator operable for
movement between a starting position and an actuating position, the
actuator in the starting position allowing the covering mechanism
to remain in the first position, and further wherein the actuator
is operable to the actuating position to move the covering
mechanism to the second position; and a delay mechanism operatively
coupled to the actuator, the delay mechanism configured to move the
actuator to the actuating position after a delay.
22. The toy vehicle of claim 21, wherein the actuator is operable
for movement under a biasing force.
23. The toy vehicle of claim 21, wherein the actuator is operable
for translational movement.
24. The toy vehicle of claim 21, wherein the actuator is configured
to be held in the starting position and released at a predetermined
time.
25. The toy vehicle of claim 21, further comprising a holder,
wherein the holder holds the actuator in the starting position.
26. The toy vehicle of claim 21, wherein the delay mechanism is
configured to move the covering mechanism to the second position
after the toy vehicle is launched.
27. The toy vehicle of claim 21, wherein the delay mechanism is
configured to move the covering mechanism to the second position
while the toy vehicle is moving.
28. The toy vehicle of claim 21, wherein the delay mechanism is
configured to move the covering mechanism to the second position
while the toy vehicle is in flight.
29. The toy vehicle of claim 21, wherein the delay mechanism
includes a dampener to control the movement of the actuator.
30. The toy vehicle of claim 29, wherein the dampener controls the
movement of the actuator at a substantially constant rate.
31. The toy vehicle of claim 29, wherein the dampener includes a
pinion operatively coupled to a rack on the actuator.
32. The toy vehicle of claim 21, further comprising: a first
holding member mounted to the body; and an elastomeric band for
engaging the holding member so the band can be stretched to a
predetermined position and released causing the projectile toy to
launch.
33. The toy vehicle of claim 21, wherein the toy vehicle is a toy
car.
34. The toy vehicle of claim 21, further comprising at least two
fins mounted to the body, the fins arranged for flying.
35. The toy vehicle of claim 21, further comprising a hollow tube
in communication with the chamber, wherein the hollow tube is
configured to release the pressurized fluid after the actuator
moves to the actuating position.
36. The toy vehicle of claim 35, further comprising a launchable
member operatively connected to the hollow tube, the launchable
member being released from the launchable body after the release of
the pressurized fluid through the hollow tube.
37. A projectile toy comprising: a body with a chamber having a
front portion and an opening; a first holding member connected near
the front portion; an elastomeric band for engaging the first
holding member so the band can be stretched to a predetermined
position and released causing the projectile toy to launch; a
covering mechanism disposed adjacent the chamber, the covering
mechanism biased to a first position to cover the opening, wherein
the chamber releasably holds fluid under pressure, and further
wherein the covering mechanism is movable to a second position for
allowing fluid to be propelled from the chamber through the
opening, and further wherein the covering mechanism has a fluid
inlet valve; an actuator disposed adjacent the covering mechanism,
the actuator operable for movement between a starting position and
an actuating position, the actuator in the starting position
allowing the covering mechanism to remain in the first position,
and further wherein the actuator is operable to the actuating
position to move the covering mechanism to the second position; a
delay mechanism operatively coupled to the actuator, the delay
mechanism configured to move the actuator to the actuating position
after a delay; and a launcher disposed adjacent the chamber, the
launcher having a pump and a launch mechanism, wherein the pump
couples to the fluid inlet valve for pressurizing the chamber, and
further wherein the launch mechanism is operable from a first
holding position for holding the actuator in the starting position
and movable to a second releasing position to release the chamber
for launch by the elastomeric band.
38. The toy vehicle of claim 37, wherein the covering mechanism
includes a plug disposed adjacent the chamber for covering the
opening, and a lever disposed adjacent the plug, the lever biased
towards a first position for holding the plug to cover the opening
and movable to a second position for releasing the plug to allow
fluid to be propelled from the chamber through the opening.
39. The toy vehicle of claim 37, wherein the actuator is operable
for movement under a biasing force.
40. The toy vehicle of claim 37, wherein the actuator is operable
for translational movement.
41. The toy vehicle of claim 37 wherein the actuator has at least
two starting positions.
42. The toy vehicle of claim 37, wherein the actuator is configured
to be held in the starting position and released at a predetermined
time.
43. The projectile toy of claim 42, wherein the launch mechanism
includes a holder for holding the actuator in the starting
position.
44. The toy vehicle of claim 37, wherein the delay mechanism is
configured to move the covering mechanism to the second position
after the toy vehicle is launched.
45. The toy vehicle of claim 37, wherein the delay mechanism is
configured to move the covering mechanism to the second position
while the toy vehicle is moving.
46. The toy vehicle of claim 37, wherein the delay mechanism is
configured to move the covering mechanism to the second position
while the toy vehicle is in flight.
47. The toy vehicle of claim 37, wherein the delay mechanism
includes a dampener to control the movement of the actuator.
48. The toy vehicle of claim 47, wherein the dampener controls the
movement of the actuator at a substantially constant rate.
49. The toy vehicle of claim 47, wherein the dampener includes a
pinion operatively coupled to a rack on the actuator.
50. The projectile toy of claim 37, wherein the launch mechanism
includes a trigger biased to hold the chamber and movable to a
position for releasing the chamber for launch by the elastomeric
band.
51. The toy vehicle of claim 37, wherein the chamber includes a
first compartment in fluid communication with the opening, and a
second compartment in fluid communication with the first
compartment at an aperture.
52. The toy vehicle of claim 51, wherein the aperture is positioned
higher than the opening relative to the opening when the launchable
body is positioned for launching.
53. The toy vehicle of claim 51, wherein the second compartment is
configured to hold substantially gas under pressure and the first
compartment is configured to hold substantially liquid under
pressure, and further wherein the first compartment and the second
compartment are configured to allow substantially all of the liquid
to be propelled from the chamber through the opening before
substantially all of the gas is propelled through the opening.
54. The toy vehicle of claim 37, wherein the toy vehicle is a toy
car.
55. The toy vehicle of claim 37, further comprising at least two
fins mounted to the body, the fins arranged for flying.
56. The toy vehicle of claim 37, further comprising a hollow tube
in communication with the chamber, wherein the hollow tube is
configured to release the pressurized fluid after the actuator
moves to the actuating position.
57. The toy vehicle of claim 56, further comprising a launchable
member operatively connected to the hollow tube, the launchable
member being released from the launchable body after the release of
the pressurized fluid through the hollow tube.
58. A wheeled toy vehicle operable for movement on a surface, the
toy vehicle comprising: a body with a chamber having an opening; a
covering mechanism disposed adjacent the chamber, the covering
mechanism biased to a first position to cover the opening, wherein
the chamber releasably holds fluid under pressure, and further
wherein the covering mechanism is movable to a second position for
allowing fluid to be propelled from the chamber through the
opening; and an actuator disposed adjacent the covering mechanism,
the actuator operable for movement in response to movement of the
vehicle between a starting position and an actuating position, the
actuator in the starting position allowing the covering mechanism
to remain in the first position, and further wherein the actuator
is operable to the actuating position to move the covering
mechanism to the second position.
59. The toy vehicle of claim 58, further comprising a delay
mechanism operatively coupled to the actuator, the delay mechanism
configured to move the actuator in response to movement of the
vehicle to move the actuator to the actuating position after an
interval.
60. The toy vehicle of claim 59, wherein the delay mechanism is a
worm and the actuator is a worm wheel.
61. The toy vehicle of claim 59, wherein the interval for movement
occurs after the launchable body is launched.
62. The toy vehicle of claim 59, wherein the interval for movement
occurs while the launchable body is moving.
63. The toy vehicle of claim 58, further comprising at least one
wheel operatively coupled to the actuator so that the actuator
moves as the at least one wheel rotates.
64. The toy vehicle of claim 63, wherein the actuator is mounted
for rotation about a vertical axis as the at least one wheel
rotatably moves about a horizontal axis.
65. The toy vehicle of claim 63, wherein the actuator is configured
to move only when the at least one wheel rotates in one
direction.
66. The toy vehicle of claim 63, wherein the actuator is biased
towards a setting position and movable to an operable position, the
actuator in the setting position allowing the actuator to move to
the starting position, and the actuator in the operable position
operable for movement in response to movement of the vehicle
between the starting position and the actuating position.
67. The toy vehicle of claim 66, wherein the actuator in the
setting position is biased towards the starting position.
68. The toy vehicle of claim 58, wherein the chamber includes a
first compartment in fluid communication with the opening, and a
second compartment in fluid communication with the first
compartment at an aperture.
69. The toy vehicle of claim 68, wherein the aperture is positioned
higher than the opening relative to the opening when the launchable
body is positioned for launching.
70. The toy vehicle of claim 68, wherein the second compartment is
configured to hold substantially gas under pressure and the first
compartment is configured to hold substantially liquid under
pressure, and further wherein the first compartment and the second
compartment are configured to allow substantially all of the liquid
to be propelled from the chamber through the opening before
substantially all of the gas is propelled through the opening.
71. The toy vehicle of claim 58, wherein the covering mechanism
further includes a fluid inlet valve.
72. The toy vehicle of claim 58, wherein the toy vehicle is a toy
car.
73. The toy vehicle of claim 58, wherein the actuator has at least
two starting positions.
74. A wheeled toy vehicle operable for movement on a surface,
comprising: at least one wheel mounted to the vehicle, wherein the
at least one wheel is rotatable on the surface to move the toy
vehicle; and an actuator operatively coupled to the at least one
wheel, the actuator biased towards a setting position and movable
to an operable position, the actuator in the setting position
releasing from the at least one wheel to allow the actuator to move
to a starting position, and the actuator in the operable position
operable for movement in response to movement of the vehicle
between the starting position and an actuating position
75. The toy vehicle of claim 74, wherein the actuator in the
setting position is biased towards the starting position.
76. The toy vehicle of claim 74, wherein the actuator in the
operable position is operably coupled to the at least one wheel,
the actuator movable as the at least one wheel rotates.
77. The toy vehicle of claim 76, wherein the actuator is mounted
for rotation about a vertical axis as the at least one wheel
rotatably moves about a horizontal axis.
78. The toy vehicle of claim 76, wherein the actuator is configured
to move only when the at least one wheel rotates in one
direction.
79. The toy vehicle of claim 74, further comprising: a body with a
chamber having an opening; and a covering mechanism disposed
adjacent the chamber and the actuator, the covering mechanism
biased to a covering position to cover the opening, wherein the
chamber releasably holds fluid under pressure, and further wherein
the actuator in the engaging position moves the covering mechanism
to a releasing position for releasing the covering mechanism to
allow fluid to be propelled from the chamber through the
opening.
80. The toy vehicle of claim 74, wherein the actuator has at least
two starting positions.
81. A toy vehicle for launching, the toy vehicle comprising: a
power source; a covering mechanism disposed adjacent the chamber,
the covering mechanism having a first position to releasably hold
the power source, and further wherein the covering mechanism is
movable to a second position for releasing the power source; an
actuator disposed adjacent the body, the actuator operable for
movement operable for movement under a biasing force between a
starting position and an actuating position, the actuator in the
starting position allowing the covering mechanism to remain in the
first position, and further wherein the actuator is operable to the
actuating position to move the covering mechanism to the second
position; and a dampener operatively coupled to the actuator, the
dampener configured to control the movement of the actuator between
a starting position and the actuating position under a delay.
82. The toy vehicle of claim 81, wherein the power source is
pressurized fluid.
83. The toy vehicle of claim 81, wherein the dampener controls the
movement of the actuator at a substantially constant rate.
84. The toy vehicle of claim 81, wherein the dampener includes a
pinion operatively coupled to a rack on the actuator.
85. The toy vehicle of claim 81, wherein the dampener is configured
to move the covering mechanism to the second position after the toy
vehicle is launched.
86. The toy vehicle of claim 81, wherein the dampener is configured
to move the covering mechanism to the second position while the toy
vehicle is moving.
87. The toy vehicle of claim 81, wherein the dampener is configured
to move the covering mechanism to the second position while the toy
vehicle is in flight.
88. The toy vehicle of claim 81, wherein the actuator is configured
to be held in the starting position and released at a predetermined
time.
89. The toy vehicle of claim 81, further comprising a holder,
wherein the holder holds the actuator in the starting position.
90. The toy vehicle of claim 81, further comprising: a first
holding member mounted to the body; and an elastomeric band for
engaging the holding member so the band can be stretched to a
predetermined position and released causing the projectile toy to
launch.
91. The toy vehicle of claim 81, wherein the covering mechanism
further includes a fluid inlet valve.
92. The toy vehicle of claim 81, wherein the toy vehicle is a toy
car.
93. The toy vehicle of claim 81, further comprising at least two
fins mounted to the body, the fins arranged for flying.
94. The toy vehicle of claim 81, further comprising a hollow tube
in communication with the chamber, wherein the hollow tube is
configured to release the pressurized fluid after the actuator
moves to the actuating position.
95. The toy vehicle of claim 81, further comprising a launchable
member operatively connected to the hollow tube, the launchable
member being released from the launchable body after the release of
the pressurized fluid through the hollow tube.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/728,467, filed Oct. 19, 2005,
and entitled "Hand-Launchable Fluid-Boosted Toy Vehicle"; U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/733,043, filed Nov. 2, 2005, and
entitled "Hand-Launchable Fluid-Boosted Toy Vehicle"; U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/775,885, filed Feb. 22, 2006, and
entitled "Hand-Launchable Fluid-Boosted Toy Vehicle"; and U.S.
Provisional Application No. 60/778,231, filed Mar. 1, 2006, and
entitled "Hand-Launchable Toy Car"; all of which are incorporated
herein by reference in their entirety for all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to fluid-boosted
toys, and more particularly to hand-launchable fluid-boosted toy
vehicles, such as balls, rockets, double-rockets, darts, airplanes,
double-airplanes, cars, or wheels.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0003] Examples of known launchable toy articles are disclosed in
U.S. Pat. No. 3,936,053, U.S. Pat. No. 4,213,268, U.S. Pat. No.
4,438,587, U.S. Pat. No. 4,710,146, U.S. Pat. No. 4,732,569, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,433,641, U.S. Pat. No. 5,653,216, U.S. Pat. No.
6,347,623, U.S. Pat. No. 6,500,042, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,698,414,
and published patent application US20040040551. The disclosures of
all of these patents and publications are incorporated herein by
reference for all purposes.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0004] The present disclosure relates to a hand-launchable
fluid-boosted toy vehicle. The toy vehicle may take the form of a
ball, a rocket, a double-rocket, a dart, an airplane, a
double-airplane, a car, or a wheel. A launchable toy vehicle may be
configured to have two power sources. The first power source may
launch the toy vehicle a certain distance using a hand-held
launching device, an elastomeric band, or by being thrown. The
second power source may use a propulsion booster, which includes a
delay mechanism, from the release of pressurized fluid contained
within the toy vehicle. The propulsion boost may occur after a
delay or an interval. The delay or interval may be after a launch
and while the toy vehicle is moving or is in flight.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 is a side view of an illustrative embodiment of a toy
vehicle for launching according to the present disclosure.
[0006] FIG. 2 is a side view of a launchable body of a toy vehicle
for launching according to the present disclosure.
[0007] FIG. 2A is a partially cutaway side view of a launchable
body of a toy vehicle for launching according to the present
disclosure.
[0008] FIGS. 3 and 4 are partially cutaway side views of a
launchable body and a launcher of a toy vehicle for launching
according to the present disclosure.
[0009] FIGS. 5 and 6 are partially cutaway side views of a
launchable body of a toy vehicle for launching according to the
present disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 7 is a side view of an illustrative embodiment of a
wheeled toy vehicle according to the present disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 8 is a side view of a launchable body of a wheeled toy
vehicle according to the present disclosure.
[0012] FIGS. 9, 10, and 11 are partially cutaway side views of
internal components of a launchable body of a wheeled toy vehicle
according to the present disclosure.
[0013] FIGS. 12, 13, and 14 are partially cutaway side views of
internal components of a launchable body of a wheeled toy vehicle
according to the present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 15 is a bottom view of a launchable body of a wheeled
toy vehicle according to the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0015] A launchable toy vehicle may be configured to have two power
sources. The first power source may launch the toy vehicle a
certain distance using a hand-held launching device, an elastomeric
band, or by being thrown. The second power source may provide the
toy vehicle a propulsion boost from the release of pressurized
fluid contained within the toy vehicle. The fluid may be any liquid
(e.g., water), any gas (e.g., air), or any combination of liquid
and gas. The propulsion boost may occur after a delay. The delay
may be after a launch and while the toy vehicle is moving or is in
flight. The toy vehicle may take any form, such as a rocket, an
airplane, a car, or a ball, and may be accordingly configured as
such.
[0016] FIGS. 1 through 6 show an illustrated embodiment of a toy
vehicle, indicated generally at 10, for launching. Toy vehicle 10
may include a launchable body 12, a launcher 14, and a slingshot
16. Launchable body 12 may include an internal reservoir or chamber
18 for holding a fluid F, a covering mechanism 20, an actuator 22
such as a rod or a plunger, a delay mechanism 24, and a first
holding member 26 (e.g., a hook or latch).
[0017] Launchable body 12 may be shaped like a rocket. Launchable
body 12 may have a protective nose 30 and fins 32 to aid in flight.
Launchable body 12 may have four fins 32. Fins 32 may be
permanently or removably attached to launchable body 12. If
removable, launchable body 12 may include fin receivers 34 fitted
to hold fins 32 in place mechanically, frictionally, or by any
other means. In some embodiments, launchable body 12 may be shaped
like an airplane with wings and a tail, or shaped like a car with
wheels, or may be shaped as desired.
[0018] Now turning to FIG. 2, chamber 18 is shown with an opening
36. Chamber 18 may have a single compartment. Chamber 18 may also
have a first compartment 38 in fluid communication with opening 36
and a second compartment 40 in fluid communication with first
compartment 38 at a passage 41 having an aperture 42. Passage 41
may allow a fluid F.sub.1 (e.g., water) and a fluid F.sub.2 (e.g.,
air) to pass between first compartment 38 and second compartment
40. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 2A, fluid F may pass through passage 41
and through aperture 42.
[0019] Aperture 42 may be configured so that first compartment 38
may substantially hold a first pressurized fluid F.sub.1 (e.g.,
water) while second compartment 40 may substantially hold a second
pressurized fluid F.sub.2 (e.g., air). When aperture 42 is
positioned higher than opening 36, as in FIGS. 1 and 2, first
compartment 38 may substantially hold pressurized water while
second compartment 40 may substantially hold pressurized air. FIG.
1 shows an illustrative embodiment where aperture 42 is positioned
higher than opening 36 when the launchable body 12 is held in a
position for launch. FIG. 2 shows an illustrative embodiment where
aperture 42 is positioned higher than opening 36 when launchable
body 12 is positioned horizontally relative to the ground or a
surface.
[0020] In some embodiments, chamber 18 may be configured to
maximize the propulsive release of pressurized fluid F through
opening 36. FIG. 6 shows a configuration for releasing pressurized
fluid F from chamber 18. Pressurized fluid F.sub.2 may flow from
second compartment 40, as shown by arrow X, through aperture 41
toward opening 36, creating a force. The force of pressurized fluid
F.sub.2 may cause substantially all of pressurized fluid F.sub.1 in
first compartment 38 to propel through opening 36 within a
minimized time interval. The force of pressurized fluid F.sub.2 may
force substantially all of pressurized fluid F.sub.1 through
opening 36 before substantially all of fluid F.sub.2 releases
through opening 36. When aperture 42 is positioned higher than
opening 36, as best shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the force of
pressurized air from second compartment 40 may cause substantially
all of pressurized water in first compartment 38 to propel through
opening 36 within a minimized time interval.
[0021] In some embodiments, first compartment 38 may have a volume
V.sub.a and second compartment 40 may have a volume V.sub.b. Volume
V.sub.b may be larger than volume V.sub.a. Volume V.sub.b may be
larger than volume V.sub.a to maximize the propulsion of
pressurized fluid F through opening 36. Volume V.sub.b may be
larger than volume V.sub.a to maximize the force of pressurized air
from second chamber 40 through aperture 42 on pressurized water in
first chamber 38 when fluid F is being released through opening
36.
[0022] Second compartment 40 may have a fill line 43 indicating,
when launchable body 12 is in a nose-down position, the amount of
fluid in second compartment 40 that corresponds to the amount of
fluid volume V.sub.a of first compartment 38.
[0023] Covering mechanism 20 may be fitted to cover or seal opening
36 while chamber 18 contains pressurized fluid F, as shown in FIGS.
1 and 2. Covering mechanism 20 may be operably movable to a
position for allowing the release of pressurized fluid F from
opening 36, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, covering
mechanism 20 may include a cork or plug 44, a lever 46, and a lever
biasing mechanism 48 (e.g., a coil or other spring).
[0024] Plug 44 may have a fluid inlet valve 50, a plug chamber 51,
a first gasket 52 for creating a seal with opening 36, a second
gasket 54 for creating a seal with launcher 14, and an arm 56.
Fluid inlet valve 50 may be disposed in plug chamber 51 so that
fluid can be inserted through plug chamber 51 into chamber 18 while
plug 44 is covering chamber 18. Fluid inlet valve 50 may allow
fluid F to pass through closed plug 44 into chamber 18 and prevent
fluid F from flowing in the opposite direction.
[0025] Arm 56 may be operatively connected to launchable body 12 so
that plug 44 may rotate away from opening 36 while remaining
attached to launchable body 12. In some embodiments, arm 56 may be
connected to launchable body 12 in a slider slot so that plug 44
may first slide outward relative to opening 36 and then rotate away
from opening 36 while remaining attached to launchable body 12.
[0026] Lever 46 may have a wheel 58 mounted on lever 56. Lever
wheel 58 may be configured to rotatably move on lever 46. Lever
wheel 58 may rotate when plug 44 contacts lever 46. Lever wheel 58
may aid plug 44 in releasing away from lever 46.
[0027] Covering mechanism 20 may have at least a first (or
un-activated) position, and be movable to a second (or activated)
position. In the first position, as shown in FIG. 2, covering
mechanism 20 may be biased to cover opening 36 to prevent the
release of pressurized fluid F through opening 36. In some
embodiments, lever biasing mechanism 48 may urge lever 46 towards
holding plug 44 in opening 36, thereby preventing release of
pressurized fluid F through opening 36.
[0028] In the second position, as shown in FIG. 6, covering
mechanism 20 may be positioned to allow fluid F to be propelled
from chamber 18 through opening 36. In some embodiments, lever 46
may release or disengage from plug 44 against the urging of lever
biasing mechanism 48. Plug 44 may be released from opening 36 to
allow pressurized fluid F to be propelled through opening 36.
[0029] Actuator 22 may be operable to move covering mechanism 20 to
the second (or activated) position. Actuator 22 may be operable for
movement between a starting position, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2,
and an actuating position, as shown in FIG. 6. Actuator 22 may move
between at least one intermediate position, as shown in FIG. 5.
Actuator 22 may be operable to move translationally. Actuator 22
may be configured to move rotatably or in any way desired. In some
embodiments, actuator 22 may have an actuator biasing mechanism 60
(e.g., a spring). Actuator 22 may include a rack or teeth 62
configured to slidingly mate with delay mechanism 24, as detailed
below.
[0030] In a starting position, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, actuator
22 may be positioned so that covering mechanism 20 is in the first
(or un-activated) position. In a starting position, actuator 22 may
be positioned so that actuator biasing mechanism 60 is compressed
or coiled to urge or bias actuator 22 to move towards the actuating
position. In a starting position, actuator 22 may be depressed into
launchable body 12 so that actuator biasing mechanism 60 is
compressed or coiled to urge or bias actuator 22 to move towards
the actuating position. In a starting position, actuator 22 may be
out of contact with lever 46. In a starting position, the movement
of actuator 22 may be controlled by delay mechanism 24 against the
urging of actuator biasing mechanism 60.
[0031] In the intermediate position, as shown in FIG. 5, actuator
biasing mechanism 60 may urge actuator 22 to move actuator 22
towards the actuating position. In the intermediate position,
actuator biasing mechanism 60 may urge or bias actuator 22 to move
to a position away from a starting position towards the actuating
position. In the intermediate position, covering mechanism 20 may
remain in the second position. In the intermediate position, the
movement of actuator 22 may be controlled by delay mechanism 24
against the urging of actuator biasing mechanism 60.
[0032] In the actuating position, as shown in FIG. 6, actuator
biasing mechanism 60 may urge or bias actuator 22 to move covering
mechanism 20 to the second position. In the actuating position,
actuator 22 may move lever 46 to the second position. In the
actuating position, actuator 22 may be disengaged from delay
mechanism 24 and moving under the urging of actuator biasing
mechanism 60. Actuator 22 may move at a faster rate when not
controlled by delay mechanism 24 relative to the rate at which
actuator 22 may move under the control of biasing mechanism 24.
[0033] Delay mechanism 24 may be configured to control the movement
of actuator 22 so that actuator 22 does not reach the actuating
position until after a delay or an interval. Delay mechanism 24 may
be configured to move actuator 22 from a starting position to the
actuating position under a delay. The delay from when actuator 22
moves from a starting position to the actuating position may occur
after launchable body 12 is launched. The delay may be selected so
that the propulsion boost occurs while launchable body 12 remains
moving or in flight. Delay mechanism 24 may cause actuator 22 to
release each time actuator 22 is depressed into launchable body 12
at a fairly or substantially constant speed or rate so that
actuator 22 each time extends back out at relatively the same time
from launchable body 12. Delay mechanism 24 may create a tension or
a resistance force against the urging of actuator biasing mechanism
60 as actuator 22 moves from a starting position towards the
actuating position. Again as best shown in FIG. 6, delay mechanism
24 may be configured to no longer control the movement of actuator
22 at some position or interval before the actuating position.
[0034] In some embodiments, delay mechanism 24 may have a dampener
64 to control the movement of actuator 22. Dampener 64 may be
configured to create a tension or a resistive force against the
biasing or urging of actuator biasing mechanism 60 as actuator 22
moves. Dampener 64 may cause actuator 22 to move at a fairly or
substantially constant rate.
[0035] In some embodiments, dampener 64 may include a pinion or
wheel 66, an axle 68, and gearbox 70. Pinion 66 may be coupled to
slidingly engage with rack 62 of actuator 22. Pinion 66 may be
coupled to axle 68 to rotate as the gears in gearbox 70 rotate.
Gearbox 70 may be configured to create a tension or resistive force
against the urging of actuator biasing mechanism 60 as actuator 22
moves. Gearbox 70 may be configured to create a resistive force or
tension, and any configuration that may cause a delay is suitable.
Gearbox 70 may cause pinion 66 to rotate on axle 68 at a fairly or
substantially constant speed or rate causing actuator 22 to move
towards the actuating position at a fairly or substantially
constant speed or rate. At some position or interval before the
actuating position, pinion 66 may disengage from rack 62 so that
actuator 22 may move towards the actuating position under the
urging of actuator biasing mechanism 60, as shown in FIG. 6.
[0036] Launcher 14 may include a mounting track 72, a pump 74, and
a launch mechanism 76. Pump 74 may include a fluid chamber 77 with
a fluid outlet 78, a plunger 80, and a pressure check valve 82.
Fluid outlet 78 is alignable with fluid inlet valve 50 for
pressurizing fluid F in launchable body 12. Pressure check valve 82
may be configured to release air from pump 74 when chamber 18 is
suitably pressurized. Pressure check valve 82 may be configured to
signal when chamber 18 is suitably pressurized, such as by
whistling or making a sound. Any suitable pump for pressurizing
fluid F in a chamber may be used.
[0037] FIG. 3 shows that launch mechanism 76 may include a trigger
or finger pull 84, a trigger bias 86 (e.g., a coil or other
spring), and a stop 88. Trigger bias 86 normally biases trigger 84
to engage and hold a second holding member 89 mounted on launchable
body 12. Stop 88 may be positioned to hold actuator 22 of
launchable body 12 in a starting position when launchable body 12
is operatively coupled to launcher 14.
[0038] FIG. 4 shows that trigger 84 may be pulled against trigger
bias 86 to disengage trigger 84 from second holding member 28.
Launchable body 12 may be released from launcher 14 when trigger 84
is disengaged from second holding member 28. Launchable body 12 may
be released from launcher 14 when trigger 84 is disengaged from
second holding member 28 by slingshot 16.
[0039] Returning to FIG. 1, slingshot 16 includes a sling housing
90, a sling arm 92, and an elastomeric or rubber band 94. Sling
housing 90 may include a shield to protect the user (e.g., the
user's hand) during launch. Sling arm 92 may have a first end
pivotally connected to sling housing 90, and a second end
operatively connected to elastomeric band 94. The pivotal motion of
sling arm 92 on sling housing 90, as depicted in dashed lines in
FIG. 1, may aid the launch of launchable body 12 into flight.
Elastomeric band 94 may be configured to be releasably attached to
first holding member 26 and to be stretched to create tension for
launching launchable body 12 away from launcher 14. Elastomeric
band 94 may be any stretchable or tension-creating material.
[0040] The following paragraphs describe an illustrative method of
using toy vehicle 10 for launching. Launchable body 12 may be
filled with water through opening 36 into chamber 18, e.g., up to
fill line 43. Actuator 22 may be set to a starting position.
Covering mechanism 20 may be in the first (non-activating)
position, thereby holding fluid F in chamber 18 and allowing
pressure to build in chamber 18 until release.
[0041] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3, launchable body 12 may be
mounted to launcher 14 so that stop 88 stops actuator 22 in a
starting position, covering mechanism 20 is in the first position,
and fluid outlet 78 is aligned with fluid inlet valve 50. By moving
plunger 80 in and out of pump 74, in a reciprocating motion like
that of a common tire pump, air may be pushed out of fluid outlet
78 through fluid inlet valve 50 and into chamber 18, thereby
pressurizing fluid F in chamber 18. Launchable body 12 may be
positioned for launch so that the pressurized water substantially
settles and substantially remains in first compartment 38 and
pressurized air substantially remains in second compartment 40.
[0042] Slingshot 16 may be coupled to first holding member 26 of
launchable body 12 and elastomeric band 94 may be stretched to a
predetermined length to create tension. Launchable body 12 may then
be launched from launcher 14 by slingshot 16, as shown in dashed
lines in FIG. 1.
[0043] FIG. 4 shows trigger 84 being squeezed and launchable body
12 releasing from launcher 14 under the tension of elastomeric band
94. Covering mechanism 20 remains in the first position in FIG.
4.
[0044] FIG. 5 shows that actuator biasing mechanism 60 may urge
actuator 22 to move actuator 22 toward the actuating position.
Covering mechanism 20 may remain in the second position during some
interval or delay while actuator 22 is being urged to the actuating
position. Delay mechanism 24 may control the movement of actuator
22 so that actuator 22 does not reach the actuating position until
after the launch. Delay mechanism 24 may control actuator 22 to
move to the actuating position at some delay or interval when
launchable body 22 is moving or is in flight.
[0045] FIG. 6 shows actuator 22 reaching the actuating position
under the urging of actuator biasing mechanism 60. Acutator 22 may
reach the actuating position while lanchable toy 12 is moving or is
in flight. At the actuating position, actuator 22 may move covering
mechanism 20 to the second position. Delay mechanism 24 may
disengage from actuator 22 at some interval after actuator 22 has
left a starting position. Delay mechanism 24 may disengage from
actuator 22 at some interval before actuator 22 reaches the
actuating position.
[0046] When covering mechanism 20 is in the second position,
pressurized fluid F in reservoir 20 may propel through opening 36,
providing launchable body 12 with a propulsion boost. Substantially
all of the pressurized water contained in first compartment 38 may
propel out of opening 36 within a minimized time interval and/or
before substantially all of the pressurized gas is propelled out of
opening 36 to provide a propulsion boost.
[0047] Attention is now directed to FIGS. 7 through 15, showing a
toy vehicle, indicated generally at 110, for launching. FIG. 7
shows that toy vehicle 110 may comprise a wheeled launchable body
112, a pump 114, and a ramp system 116. Launchable body 112 may be
shaped like a car with a set of front wheels 118 mounted to a front
axle 120, a set of back wheels 122 mounted to a back axle 124, and
a pump receiver 125. Launchable body 112 may also be configured to
release pressurized fluid F, as shown in dashed lines in FIG. 7.
The release of pressurized fluid F may provide a propulsion boost
to launchable body 112.
[0048] Turning to FIG. 8, launchable body 112 may include a
reservoir or chamber 126, for holding fluid F, with an opening 128.
Opening 128 may be sealed or covered with a covering mechanism
130.
[0049] Chamber 126 may have a single compartment. Chamber 126 may
also have a first compartment 132 in fluid communication with
opening 128 and a second compartment 134 in fluid communication
with first compartment 132 at a passage 135 having an aperture 136.
Passage 135 may allow a fluid F.sub.1 (e.g., water) and a fluid
F.sub.2 (e.g., air) to pass between first compartment 132 and
second compartment 134. Chamber 126 may configured to operate
similarly to chamber 18 of toy vehicle 10.
[0050] Aperture 136 may be configured so that first compartment 132
may substantially hold a first pressurized fluid F.sub.1 (e.g.,
water) while second compartment 134 may substantially hold a second
pressurized fluid F.sub.2 (e.g., air). When aperture 136 is
positioned higher than opening 128, as in FIGS. 7 and 8, first
compartment 132 may substantially hold pressurized water while
second compartment 134 may substantially hold pressurized air.
FIGS. 7 and 8 show an illustrative embodiment where aperture 136 is
positioned higher than opening 128 when launchable body 112 is
positioned horizontally relative to the ground or a surface.
[0051] In some embodiments, chamber 126 may be configured to
maximize the propulsive release of pressurized fluid F through
opening 128. The dashed lines in FIG. 7 depict a configuration for
releasing pressurized fluid F from chamber 126. Pressurized fluid
F.sub.2 may flow from second compartment 134 through aperture 136
toward opening 128, creating a force. The force of pressurized
fluid F.sub.2 may cause substantially all of pressurized fluid
F.sub.1 in first compartment 132 to propel through opening 128
within a minimized time interval. The force of pressurized fluid
F.sub.2 may force substantially all of pressurized fluid F.sub.1
through opening 36 before substantially all of fluid F.sub.2
releases through opening 36. When aperture 136 is positioned higher
than opening 128, the force of pressurized air from second
compartment 134 may cause substantially all of pressurized water in
first compartment 132 to propel through opening 128 within a
minimized time interval.
[0052] In some embodiments, first compartment 132 may have a volume
V.sub.a and second compartment 134 may have a volume V.sub.b.
Volume V.sub.b may be larger than volume V.sub.a. Volume V.sub.b
may be larger than volume V.sub.a to maximize the propulsion of
pressurized fluid F through opening 128. Volume V.sub.b may be
larger than volume V.sub.a to maximize the force of pressurized air
from second chamber 134 through aperture 136 on pressurized water
in first chamber 132 when fluid F is being released through opening
128.
[0053] Second compartment 134 may have a fill line 138 indicating,
when launchable body 112 is in a nose-down position, the amount of
fluid in second compartment 134 that corresponds to the amount of
fluid volume V.sub.a of first compartment 132.
[0054] In some embodiments, chamber 126 may have a pressure check
valve 139 configured to release fluid when chamber 126 has reached
a suitable pressure level.
[0055] Covering mechanism 130 may be fitted to cover or seal
opening 128 while chamber 126 contains pressurized fluid F, as
shown in solid lines in FIG. 7. Covering mechanism 130 may be
operably movable to a position allowing the release of pressurized
fluid F from opening 128, as show in dashed lines in FIG. 7.
[0056] Now referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, covering mechanism 130 may
include a cork or plug 140, a lever 142 with a wheel 144 mounted on
lever 142, and a lever biasing mechanism 146 (e.g., a coil or other
spring). Plug 140 may have a fluid inlet valve 148 disposed within
a fluid chamber 149, a first gasket 150 for creating a seal with
opening 128, a second gasket 152 for creating a seal with pump 114,
and an arm 154. Fluid inlet valve 148 may allow fluid F to pass
through closed plug 140 into chamber 127 and prevent fluid F from
flowing in the opposite direction. Plug 140 may be configured
similarly to plug 44 on toy vehicle 10.
[0057] Covering mechanism 130 may have at least a first (or
un-activated) position, and a second (or activated) position.
Covering mechanism 130 may be configured like covering mechanism 20
on toy vehicle 10. In the first position, as shown in FIGS. 8, 9
and 10, covering mechanism 130 may be biased to cover opening 128
to prevent the release of pressurized fluid F through opening 128.
In some embodiments, lever biasing mechanism 146 may urge lever 142
towards holding plug 140 in opening 128, thereby preventing release
of pressurized fluid F through opening 128.
[0058] In the second position, as shown in FIG. 11, covering
mechanism 130 may be positioned to allow fluid F to be propelled
from chamber 126 through opening 128. In some embodiments, lever
142 may release or disengage from plug 140 against the urging of
lever biasing mechanism 146. Plug 140 may be released from opening
128 to allow pressurized fluid F to be propelled through opening
128.
[0059] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 12, launchable body 112 may further
include an actuator 156 such as a wheel, a delay mechanism 158, and
an actuator setter 160. Actuator 156 may be operable to move
covering mechanism 130 to the second (or activated) position.
Actuator 156 may be operably movable in response to the movement of
the vehicle. Actuator 156 may include teeth 162 disposed along the
rim of actuator 156, a lever engager 164, and a setter stopper 166.
Actuator 156 may be shaped like a wheel driven by a worm gear 168.
Lever engager 164 may be shaped like a wedge configured to engage
and move lever 142 to the second position. Setter stopper 166 may
be configured to interact with actuator setter 160, as described
below.
[0060] Actuator 156 has at least one starting position and an
actuating position. In a starting position, as shown in FIGS. 9 and
10, actuator 156 may be positioned so that covering mechanism 130
is in the first position. In a starting position, lever engager 164
may be positioned so that lever 142 remains biased towards holding
plug 140 in opening 128, thereby preventing release of pressurized
fluid F. In a starting position, lever engager 164 may be out of
contact with lever 142.
[0061] In the actuating position, as shown in FIG. 11, actuator 156
may move covering mechanism 130 to the second position. In the
actuating position, lever engager 164 may move lever 142 so that
lever 142 releases from plug 140 allowing fluid F to propel out of
opening 128. In the actuating position, lever engager 164 may be in
contact with lever 142.
[0062] Delay (or timer) mechanism 158 may be operatively coupled to
actuator 156 to control the movement of actuator 156. Delay
mechanism 158 may be configured to move actuator 156 in response to
the movement of toy vehicle 110. Delay mechanism 158 may be
configured to move as the vehicle wheels, e.g., back wheels 122,
rotate. Delay mechanism 158 may be configured to control the
movement of actuator 156 so that actuator 156 does not reach the
actuating position until after an interval or a delay. The interval
or delay from when actuator 156 moves from a starting position to
the actuating position may occur while launchable body 112 is
moving.
[0063] Again referring to FIG. 9, delay mechanism 158 may include
an actuator engager 168, such as a worm gear, and a ratchet system
170. Actuator engager 168 may be configured to move with back
wheels 122 on back axle 124. Actuator engager 168 may be mounted to
back axle 124. Actuator engager 168 may be operatively coupled with
actuator 156. Actuator engager 168 may include worm (or spiral-like
teeth) 172 operatively coupled with actuator 156. Actuator engager
168 may be configured to move actuator 156 by using a worm
gear-worm wheel configuration.
[0064] In some embodiments, actuator 156 may move about a
substantially vertical axis as actuator engager 168 rotates about a
substantially horizontal axis. Actuator engager 168 may rotate
about a substantially horizontal axis as back wheels 124 rotate
about a substantially horizontal axis. Actuator engager 168 may be
configured to rotate about back axle 124 in the same direction as
back axle 124 is rotating, or in the opposite direction as back
axle 124 is rotating. Other suitable orientations of these axes may
be used.
[0065] Now turning to FIG. 12, ratchet system 170 may be configured
so that actuator engager 168 may rotate in one direction about back
axle 124. Ratchet system 170 may be configured to allow actuator
156 to move to the actuating position as back axle 124 rotates in a
forward direction FD. Ratchet system 170 may be configured so that
actuator 156 does not move or rotate with back axle 124 as back
axle 124 rotates in a reverse direction RD.
[0066] Ratchet system 170 may include a ratchet 174 mounted to back
axle 124.
[0067] Ratchet 174 may have first angled teeth 176 operatively
coupled to second angled teeth 178. Second angled teeth 178 may be
mounted to actuator engager 168. Ratchet 174 may further have a
ratchet biasing mechanism 180 (e.g., a coil or other spring) urging
first angled teeth 176 to couple with second angled teeth 178.
Ratchet 174 may be mounted to rotate as back axle 124 rotates.
Ratchet 174 may be mounted to always rotate with back axle 124.
Ratchet 174 may be mounted to always rotate in the same direction
as back axle 124 rotates.
[0068] First angled teeth 176 may be operatively coupled to second
angled teeth 178 to function like a ratchet, or any other suitable
arrangement, to restrict motion or rotatable movement in one
direction. In some embodiments, first angled teeth 176 and second
angled teeth 178 may be configured so actuator engager 168 rotates
with back axle 124 as launchable body 112 moves in forward
direction FD. First angled teeth 176 and second angled teeth 178
may be configured so actuator engager 168 does not rotate with back
axle 124 as launchable body 112 moves in rearward direction RD. As
back wheels 122 and back axle 124 rotate in rearward direction RD,
angled teeth 176 and angled teeth 178 may disengage against the
urging of ratchet biasing mechanism 180. In this manner, ratchet
system 170 may function like a ratchet, causing actuator 156 not to
rotate with back axle 124 as launchable body 112 moves in rearward
direction RD.
[0069] Now turning to FIG. 12, actuator setter 160 may allow
actuator 156 to be set to a predetermined starting position away
from the actuating position. Actuator setter 160 may include a
setter tab 182, at least one axle biasing mechanism 184 (e.g.,
spring), and a setter biasing mechanism 186 (e.g., a coil or other
spring).
[0070] Setter tab 182 may be set to a predetermined starting
position for actuator 156. Setter tab 182 may be a tab that is
configured to stop stopper 166 on actuator 156 from rotating past
setter tab 182.
[0071] Setter biasing mechanism 186 may be operatively coupled to
actuator 156 to urge actuator 156 towards a predetermined starting
position. In some embodiments, setter biasing mechanism 186 may
urge actuator 156 to rotate counterclockwise about a substantially
vertical axis towards a predetermined starting position. Stopper
166 on actuator 156 may come into contact with setter tab 182 of
actuator setter 160 under the bias of setter biasing mechanism 186
at a predetermined starting position. Stopper 166 may hold or stop
actuator 156 in a predetermined starting position against the
urging of setter biasing mechanism 186. In some embodiments,
actuator engager 168 may be out of contact with actuator 156 for
setter biasing mechanism 186 to urge actuator 156 towards a
predetermined starting position. In some embodiments, when actuator
engager 168 is operatively coupled to actuator 156, setter biasing
mechanism 186 may be prevented from urging actuator 156 towards a
predetermined starting position.
[0072] To set actuator 156 to a predetermined position, setter tab
182 may be rotated. In some embodiments, actuator engager 168 may
be out of contact with actuator 156 for setter tab 182 to set
actuator 156 in a predetermined starting position. In some
embodiments, when actuator engager 168 is operatively coupled to
actuator 156, setter tab 182 may be prevented from being set to a
predetermined starting position.
[0073] As setter tab 182 rotates, actuator 156 may rotate. In turn,
as actuator 156 rotates, lever engager 168 may rotate closer to or
further from lever 142. Setter tab 182 may be used to move lever
engager 164 closer to or further from the actuating position. In
some embodiments, setter tab 182 may be rotated on a substantially
vertical axis in a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise
direction. Rotating setter tab 182 in a clockwise direction may
increase the interval or delay for actuator 156 between the
predetermined starting position and the actuating position.
Rotating setter tab 182 in a counterclockwise direction may
decrease the interval or delay for actuator 156 between the
predetermined staring position and the actuating position. Other
suitable orientations of these axes and directions may be used.
[0074] While setter tab 182 is moved to set actuator 156 to a
predetermined starting position, actuator engager 168 may be out of
contact with actuator 156. As shown in FIG. 13, axle biasing
mechanism 184 may urge back axle 124 and actuator engager 168 out
of contact with actuator 156. When actuator engager 168 is out of
contact with actuator 156, setter biasing mechanism 186 may urge
actuator 156 towards the predetermined starting position. Setter
tab 182 may be moved to a predetermined starting position when
actuator engager 168 is out of contact with actuator 156.
[0075] With reference to FIGS. 8 and 13, axle biasing mechanism 184
may urge back axle 124 out of contact with actuator 156 when
launchable body 112 is out of contact with a surface or the ground.
Axle biasing mechanism 184 may urge back axle 124 out of contact
with actuator 156 when back wheels 122 are out of contact with a
surface or the ground, as depicted in dashed lines in FIG. 8. When
back wheels 22 are out of contact with a surface or the ground,
setter biasing mechanism 186 may urge actuator 156 towards a
predetermined starting position. When back wheels 22 are out of
contact with a surface or the ground, actuator setter 160 may set
actuator 156 to a predetermined starting position.
[0076] With reference to FIGS. 8 and 15, axle biasing mechanism 184
may urge back axle 124 out of contact with actuator 156 when
launchable body 112 is turned over. Setter biasing mechanism 186
may urge actuator 156 towards a predetermined starting position
while launchable body 112 is turned over. Setter tab 182 may be set
while launchable body 112 is turned over.
[0077] With reference to FIGS. 8 and 14, back axle 124 and actuator
engager 168 are shown operatively engaged to actuator 156. The
weight of launchable body 112 may overcome the urging of axle
biasing mechanism 184 when back wheels 122 are in contact with a
surface or the ground, as shown in solid lines in FIG. 8. When
launchable body 112 is in contact with a surface or the ground,
actuator engager 168 may be operatively engaged to actuator 156.
Actuator 156 may be operably moved from to the actuating position
when actuator engager 168 is in contact with actuator 156. Actuator
156 may be moved to the actuating position when back wheels 124 are
in contact with the surface. Actuator setter 160 may allow actuator
156 to move towards the actuator position as back wheels 122
rotate.
[0078] In some embodiments, setter tab 182 may be set to hold
actuator 156 at one of multiple predetermined starting positions.
Now referring to FIG. 15, actuator setter 160 may further include a
holder cover 188 with a slit 190, notches 192, and indicia 194.
Slit 190 may be curved and may be fittably sized for setter tab 182
to fit and rotate in slit 190. Notches 192 may be configured to
hold setter tab 182 by frictional force, mechanical force, or by
any other means. Each notch 192 may be fitted to hold setter tab
182 at a different interval. Each different interval may indicate a
different predetermined starting position for actuator 156. Each
different interval may indicate a different interval of movement of
launchable body 112, or delay, before actuator 156 reaches the
actuating position. Indicia 194 may indicate the relative interval
or delay between the predetermined starting position and the
actuating position corresponding to each notch 192.
[0079] In some embodiments, FIG. 9 may depict actuator 156 set at a
first predetermined location. In some embodiments, FIG. 10 may
depict show actuator 156 set at a second predetermined
location.
[0080] Returning to FIG. 7, pump 114 may incorporate a trigger 196,
a fluid chamber 197 with a fluid outlet 198 and a plunger 200. Pump
114 may be used to pressurize fluid F in chamber 126. Trigger 196
may releasably engage with pump receiver 125. Plunger 200 may be
moved up and down, as indicated by the arrows in FIG. 7, to pump
fluid (e.g., air) out outlet 198 through fluid inlet valve 148 into
chamber 126. Fluid inlet valve may restrict fluid F to flow only
from pump 114 to chamber 126. Any suitable pump configuration for
pressurizing fluid may be used.
[0081] Ramp system 116 may include a ramp 202, a base 204, and a
trick piece 206. Ramp 202 may be attached to base 204 in a
plurality of positions, as shown in dashed lines in FIG. 7. The
different attachment positions may allow a user to adjust ramp 202
to the desired angle and steepness relative to base 204. Trick
piece 206 may be placed on ramp 202 at various positions. Other
accessories can also be included with wheeled toy vehicle system
110, such as decals, toy vehicle tracks, or any other desired
accessory.
[0082] The following paragraphs describe an illustrative method of
using toy vehicle 110. Launchable body 112 may be filled with water
through opening 128 into chamber 126. Water may be added, e.g.,
when launchable body 112 is positioned nose-down, up to fill line
138. Actuator 156 may be set to a starting position. Covering
mechanism 130 may be set to the first position, thereby holding
water in chamber 126 and allowing pressure to build in chamber 126
until release. Opening 128 may be sealed or covered with plug 140.
Lever biasing mechanism 146 may urge lever 142 towards holding plug
140 to cover or seal opening 128.
[0083] Launchable body 112 may be turned over, as in FIG. 15.
Because launchable body 112 is turned over, delay mechanism 158 may
be urged by axle biasing mechanism 184 to disengage from actuator
156. Setter tab 182 may be rotated to any notch 192 to set actuator
setter 160 and actuator 156 to a predetermined starting position.
Setter tab 182 may be rotated to any notch 192 to set a delay
interval between a starting position and the actuating position for
actuator 156.
[0084] Launchable body 112 may be flipped upright, as in FIG. 7,
and releasably mounted to pump 114 to pressurize the water in
chamber 126 with air. Launchable body 112 may be disengaged from
pump 114. Launchable body 112 may be positioned, e.g., nose-up,
before launch to ensure the water is substantially transferred from
second compartment 134 to first compartment 132. Launchable body
112 may be shaken while launchable body is positioned nose-up to
ensure the water is substantially transferred from second
compartment 134 to first compartment 134.
[0085] Launchable body 112 may be set on a surface. Actuator 156
and delay mechanism 158 may engage when launchable body 112 is set
on the surface, as shown in FIG. 9.
[0086] Launchable body 112 may be rolled in a forward direction FD
along a surface. FIG. 9 shows the rotation of back axle 124 as
launchable body 112 is rolled along a surface in a forward
direction FD. The rotation of back wheels 122 along the surface may
rotate back axle 124 and actuator engager 168. The rotation of
actuator engager 168 may rotate actuator 156 toward the actuating
position.
[0087] FIG. 10 shows that actuator 156 may be rotated from a
starting position or a predetermined starting position towards the
actuating position while launchable body 112 is rolling in a
forward direction FD. Covering mechanism 130 may remain in the
second position during some interval after launchable body 112 is
launched. Covering mechanism 130 may remain in the second position
during some interval while launchable body 112 is moving.
[0088] FIG. 11 shows that at some interval after launch and while
launchable body 112 is moving, actuator 156 may move into the
actuating position. Actuator 156 may move into the actuating
position while launchable body 112 is moving in a forward direction
FD'. Covering mechanism 130 may move to the second position. Lever
engager 164 may move lever 142 to the second position. Lever 142
may be released or disengaged from plug 140. Plug 140 may be
released from opening 128. Pressurized fluid F may be propelled
through opening 128. The release of pressurized fluid F may act as
an energy source, providing a propulsion boost for launchable body
112.
[0089] Launchable body 112 may be lifted from the surface. Back
wheels 122 may be disengaged from the surface when launchable body
112 is lifted, as shown in dashed lines in FIG. 8. Axle biasing
mechanism 184 may urge delay mechanism 158 to disengage from
actuator 156, as shown in FIG. 13. In turn, setter biasing
mechanism 186 may urge actuator 156 towards the predetermined
starting position. Stopper 166 may rotate with actuator 156 as
actuator 156 is being urged towards the predetermined starting
position. Setter tab 182 of actuator setter 160 156 may stop and
hold stopper 166. Setter tab 182 may hold actuator 156 in the
predetermined starting position.
[0090] Actuator setter 160 may be set when launchable body 112 is
lifted from the surface. Actuator 156 may be set to a predetermined
starting position using actuator setter 160.
[0091] The present disclosure encompasses other embodiments. In
some embodiments, the delay mechanism may include at least one
delay button. The at least one delay button may be positioned so a
user can hold the actuator out of the actuating position without
using a launcher. The at least one button may have a depressed
position and be biased towards a released position. In the
depressed position, the button(s) may hold the actuator in a
starting position while the button(s) is being held by a user. In
the released position, the button(s) may disengage from the
actuator, allowing the actuator to move to the engaging position.
The button(s) may be configured to move from a starting position to
the releasing position after a delay. Once the button(s) is
released, the button(s) may move after a delay from a starting
position to the released position, thereby releasing the actuator.
The delay may be after a launch. The delay may be while the
launchable body is moving or in flight.
[0092] In some embodiments, the delay mechanism or the dampener may
function like those typically found in music boxes. As such, the
delay mechanism may be a time-delayed, spring-loaded,
constant-speed delayed release mechanism.
[0093] In some embodiments, such as a double-airplane or a
double-rocket, a launchable body (e.g., a first rocket or airplane)
may be releasably coupled to a launchable member (e.g., a second
rocket or airplane) so that the body carries the member for a
certain distance after a launch. The body may be configured to
release pressurized fluid in a chamber as described in other
embodiments. The body may also include a hollow tube in fluid
communication with the chamber through which the pressurized fluid
may be released. The member may include a hollow fuselage sized to
receive the hollow tube of the body. After a delay or an interval,
the body may release pressurized fluid through the hollow tube. The
member may speed away from the body. The delay may occur after
launch. The delay may occur while the body and the member are
moving or are in flight. The body and the member may be shaped like
an airplane, a rocket, a car, or any other form or combination
desired.
[0094] It is believed that the disclosure set forth above
encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility.
While each of these inventions has been disclosed in its preferred
form, the specific embodiments thereof as disclosed and illustrated
herein are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous
variations are possible. The subject matter of the inventions
includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations
of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties
disclosed herein. Similarly, where any claim recites "a" or "a
first" element or the equivalent thereof, such claim should be
understood to include incorporation of one or more such elements,
neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements.
[0095] Inventions embodied in various combinations and
subcombinations of features, functions, elements, and/or properties
may be claimed through presentation of new claims in a related
application. Such new claims, whether they are directed to a
different invention or directed to the same invention, whether
different, broader, narrower or equal in scope to the original
claims, are also regarded as included within the subject matter of
the inventions of the present disclosure.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0096] The methods and apparatus described in the present
disclosure are applicable to toys, games, and other devices, and
industries in which amusement devices are used.
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