[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application

No. 62/526,653, filed 29 June 2017, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present application relates to a track for a toy vehicle, and more particularly, to reversible toy track segment for guiding a toy vehicle.

DISCUSSION OF THE RELATED ART

[0003] Toy train sets continue to capture the imagination and amusement of children and adults alike. Consumers typically derive great pleasure in assembling train tracks into various configurations and watching their toy locomotives travel across the tracks.

[0004] Some consumers are particularly engrossed with designing different layout geometries using a given set of track pieces. Creating track configurations that are complex and elaborate engages enthusiasts in a creative and stimulating way. To that end, manufacturers typically provide track pieces that include curves, switches, elevations, bridges, viaducts and similar variations in track shape.

[0005] In order to create a working layout geometry, the track pieces are typically joined together to form a completed circuit. For example, using a combination of curved and straight track pieces, an ovular loop can be formed that allows a train to continuously travel on the track. However, depending on the desired level of complexity of the track layout, a high amount of planning and preparation may be needed in order to ensure that a track layout can result in a complete circuit. Otherwise, combining a set of track pieces can result in a layout that is incomplete. For example, the size and shapes of the track pieces can lead to a layout geometry where track pieces are not close enough to be joined and complete the circuit.

Some layout geometries become so complex that they are designed with the assistance of CAD or modeling software.

[0006] Some consumers prefer track pieces that are constructed of wood because of its visual, and/or tactile properties. For example, wood track pieces may be visually preferable because of their aesthetic appeal and nostalgic resemblance to classical train sets from the early 1900s.

[0007] However, wooden track pieces have several drawbacks. Manufacturers typically construct wooden tracks using proprietary sizes and dimensions. As a result, track pieces from one manufacturer are typically incompatible with the track pieces of another manufacturer. If a track piece becomes lost or damaged, finding a replacement can become problematic. For example, when a missing track piece is no longer made by the manufacturer, a consumer may have no option for finding a substitute.

[0008] Moreover, a variety of factors can cause wood to become warped. For example, changes in moisture content, temperature, or pressure can cause deformations in the shape of the wood. Such deformations can in turn cause problems with joining track pieces with each other. For example, deformations can cause track pieces to be misaligned, preventing connector pieces from interlocking.

[0009] As a result, some manufacturers design the male and female connectors of the track pieces with variance. The variance creates gaps between the contact surfaces of the male and female connectors that allow the pieces to wiggle when they are interlocked. In this way, track pieces can be interlocked even in the presence of misalignments caused by deformations.

[0010] However, the gaps caused by the variances can cause instability in the connections between joined track pieces. For example, deformations in the connector of a track piece may cause the connection to be loose and unstable. In turn, the instability can cause vehicles to derail off of the tracks. Track instability is further compounded when track pieces take on more complex twists and shapes, such as curves or elevations. As a result, electronically powered trains are typically not operated on track sets constructed of wood. Because consumers prefer the visual and tactile aspects of wooden train tracks, tracks made from other materials do not offer a suitable alternative.

[0011] Furthermore, the smooth surfaces of wooden track pieces do not typically provide enough traction to keep trains stable on a track. For example, the grooves of a wooden track piece typically lack any ridges that would create traction with wheels of a vehicle, creating a slippery and unstable surface. As a result, battery operated trains are not typically used with wooden track sets because the battery operated trains typically fall over when traversing unstable sections of the track, such as a sharp turn.

[0012] Thus, a need exists for systems and methods that enable the construction of toy track assemblies using wood pieces that are stable when joined with other track pieces that have been warped or deformed.

SUMMARY

[0013] Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a track segment for guiding a toy vehicle that substantially obviates one or more of the problems due to limitations and disadvantages of the related art. [0014] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a track for guiding toy a vehicle.

[0015] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a toy track segment that is compatible with other track assemblies made of different materials.

[0016] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a toy track having aesthetic appeal.

[0017] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a toy track segment that resists deformation or damage.

[0018] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a toy track segment that provides traction for a toy vehicle operating thereon.

[0019] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a toy track segment that facilitates stability of a toy vehicle operating thereon.

[0020] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a toy track segment that can be stably joined to another track segment by an interlocking connection without gaps.

[0021] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a toy track segment that can be easily assembled with another segment.

[0022] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a toy track segment that is reversible.

[0023] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a toy track that can be easily manufactured with low cost.

[0024] Additional features and aspects will be set forth in the description that follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the inventive concepts provided herein. Other features and aspects of the inventive concepts may be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description, or derivable therefrom, and the claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.

[0025] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with the purpose of the present disclosure, as embodied and broadly described, a reversible toy track segment, for guiding a toy vehicle that is compatible with track assemblies constructed of different materials, comprises a first surface having a set of longitudinally formed grooves for guiding a toy vehicle; a second surface having a set of longitudinally formed grooves for guiding a toy vehicle; a male connector formed on a first end of the reversible toy track segment, the male connector having a head and a neck for securely interlocking with a female connector of another toy track segment, wherein the reversible toy track segment is constructed of plastic material resistant to warping, wherein the head and neck of the male connector have a periphery surface, and the periphery surface of the male connector is formed with at least one rib, and wherein upon coupling the male connector of the reversible toy track segment to a female connector of another toy track segment constructed of a different material, the at least one rib tightens the interlocking grip between the male connector and female connector and reduces gaps formed by variances in the reversible toy track segment.

[0026] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the inventive concepts as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the disclosure and are incorporated and constitute a part of this application, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the

description serve to explain various principles.

[0028] FIGs. 1 -6D show different views of example reversible toy track segments.

[0029] FIGs. 7A-7C are perspective views of track segments according to example embodiments having curved, elevated, and switch track segments that can be reversible.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Reference will now be made to embodiments of the present disclosure, example of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0031] The disclosed subject matter relates to a reversible toy track segment that improves the stability of an interlocking connection when coupled with another track segment.

[0032] FIGs. 1 -6D show different views of example reversible toy track segments. A reversible toy track segment 101 can include two surfaces: a first surface and a second surface (e.g., top and bottom surfaces). The two surfaces can each be formed with a set grooves 103 that are formed longitudinally in the direction that it is desired to move the vehicle in. By forming the grooves 103 on both surfaces, both sides of the track segment 101 can be used to guide a toy vehicle. Thus, the track segment 101 can be flipped when so desired. For example, when using curved or elevated segments as described below, the track segment 101 can be flipped to change the direction of the direction of the track assembly. Users may also wish to use the reverse side of the track segment 101 if, for example, the first surface of the track segment 101 becomes damaged or otherwise unusable. The ability to use both sides of the reversible track segment 101 also provides substitutes for pieces that are lost. For example, when a left-curved piece is lost or missing, a right-curved piece can be flipped and used in its place.

[0033] A cross section of an example track segment 101 is shown in FIG. 4. Each groove 103 has an inner wall and outer wall. In some embodiments, the inner and outer walls may be formed substantially perpendicular to the track forming a right angle with the bottom of the groove 103. In further embodiments, the inner wall can be tapered at an angle to the bottom of the groove 103. Tapered walls can enable the track to accommodate vehicle wheels of different sizes, and can improve the stability of the vehicles for track segments that are non-linear (e.g., curved, or elevated). In some embodiments, the height of the inner wall from the bottom of the groove 103 to the top of the surface is approximately 1/16" - 2/16" in., and the width of the inner wall is approximately 1/16" - 3/16" in. In some embodiments, the height of the outer wall from the bottom of the groove 103 to the top of the surface is approximately 1/16" - 2/16" in., and the width is approximately 1/16" - 3/16" in. The track gauge, established as the distance between the inner walls on opposing grooves 103 of the track, is approximately 9/16" - 10/16" in.

[0034] The track segment 101 of FIG. 1 may be formed with a male connector 104 and a female connector 106, as further shown in FIGs. 2-3B. The male connector 104 has a head 203 and a neck 205 for securely interlocking with a female connector 106 of another toy track segment 101 . In some embodiments, the female connector 104 is an opening or cutout 207 in the track segment 101 that has a shape that is substantially complementary to the shape of the head 203 and neck 205 of the male connector 104. In some embodiments the head 203 is circular-shaped, tongue- shaped, rectangular-shaped, trapezoidal-shaped, or triangular-shaped. In an example embodiment, the male connector 104 is formed with a head 203 having a circular shape, and a neck 205 having a rectangular shape. The complementary female connector 106 has a circular opening or cutout 207 matching the head 203 of the male connector, and a rectangular opening matching the neck 205 of the male connector 104. The female connector 106 serves as a receptacle that interlocks with the male connector 104.

[0035] In some embodiments, the track segment 101 is constructed of a material that is more resistant to deformations or warping than wood. For example, a track segment 101 can be constructed with a plastic, such as for example polypropylene. Such plastic track segments 101 exhibit superior structural, thermal, and pressure properties, enabling the track segment 101 to resist deformation and warping more than wood.

[0036] The track segments 101 can be constructed with materials, such as plastic, using an injection molding process. A mold can be formed using the desired shape and dimensions of the track segment 101 , including the male and female connectors 104 and 106, as described in more detail below. The mold can then be injected with a heated liquid material that solidifies upon cooling, such as plastic. In some embodiments, the entire track segment 101 , including the male/female connectors 104/106 and ribs 105 may be formed from a single mold that creates a unitary integral piece. Unitary track pieces are particularly advantageous when users are children, and providing track pieces that are too small present a choking hazard.

[0037] In other embodiments, the male/female connectors 104/106, ribs 105, and other components of the track segment 101 can be chosen to be molded separately, and then affixed together using a bonding or adhesive process. For example, a male connector 104 can be molded separately from the remainder of the track segment 101 and then affixed together using an adhesive. [0038] In yet further embodiments, the components of the track segment 101 can be molded with a co-molding process. In a co-molding process, two different materials are used to form a single molded piece. For example, after a first material is injection molded, a second material can be injection molded onto the first material, forming a single molded piece. The first or second materials used in the co-molding process can be polypropylene (PP), Adhesive-Backed Polyester Film (ABF), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), rubber material (e.g., TPR or TPE), silicone, similar mold materials, or some combination thereof. The second material can differ from the first material in color and/or composition. For example, the first material can be black ABF, and the second material can be red polypropylene. The two materials can be cooled at separate times and temperatures. For example, the first material can be cooled to a certain temperature, after which the second material can be added and cooled until it is bonded with the first material as a single piece. In some embodiments, a vehicle component can be made with a co-molding process. For example, a vehicle's wheel can have a body made from an ABS material and co- molded with treads made from a rubber material.

[0039] FIG. 5 shows an example configuration whereby non-wooden track segments can be coupled to other track segments constructed of wood. A user can join two disparate track segments by sliding the male or female connector of a non- wooden track segment into the complementary male or female connector of the wooden track segment. The wooden track can be a one-sided track or reversible two-sided track. The male/female connector of the non-wooden track and the male/female of the wooden track are securely interlocked even though they are constructed of different materials. In this way, the non-wooden track segments, which are resistant to warping and/or deformation, can be used to replace wooden segments that have been lost or damaged (e.g., due to warping and/or deformation).

[0040] In some embodiments, the non-wooden track segments can also be joined with wooden track segments that have been warped and/or deformed. Even with variations in the shape and dimensions of the male and/or female connectors of the wooden track segments, the non-wooden track segments can be formed with one or more ribs 105 as shown in FIGs. 1 -3A that fill voids, gaps, or openings and securely interlock the connectors together. By filling the voids, gaps, or openings, the male and/or female connector tightens the interlocking grip, thereby reducing instability created by variances in the wooden tracks and/or the non-wooden track segments.

[0041] As shown in FIGs. 1 -3A, the ribs 105 can be formed along the periphery of the head 203 and/or neck 205 of the male connector 104. The ribs 105 can be formed to have various shapes that are advantageous for improving interlocking. For example, they can be substantially rectangular, ovular, triangular, trapezoidal, or arcuate in shape. The ribs 105 can be formed so that they extend across the entire length of the head 203 or neck 205 periphery, or only a portion of the length of the periphery. For example, a rib 105 can be formed to extend from the top of the head 203 to the bottom of the head 203, spanning across the entire distance between the top and bottom surface. The ribs 105 can also be formed in different directions across the head 203 and neck 205. For example, the ribs 105 can be substantially vertical, diagonal, or horizontal across the head 203. In some embodiments, the ribs 105 have alternating lengths, shapes, and directions across the periphery of the head 203 and neck 205.

[0042] The one or more ribs 105 can be formed in various different positions across the periphery of the male and/or female connector 104. For example, the one or more ribs 105 can be formed at the apex of the head 203, the distal end of the head 203, the top of the neck 205, the bottom of the neck 205, or any combination thereof. The one or more ribs 105 can be formed on the male and female

connectors 104 and 106 in an alternating comb-like manner so that a rib 105 of a male connector 104 will slide in between two ribs 105 of a female connector 206. In this way, the ribs 105 of the male/female connectors 104/106 will abut each other when the male/female connectors 104/106 are interlocked, preventing undesired movement caused by voids or gaps in between the connectors 104, 106.

[0043] In some embodiments, the ribs 105 can be repositioned along the periphery of the head 205 or neck 205 of a male connector 104, and the cutout 207 of a female connector 106. Repositioning the ribs 105 enables the user to move one or more ribs 105 to better fit into a gap, void, or opening, which in turn, strengthens the grip of the interlocking connection. For example, the ribs 105 can be formed with a set of clips for attaching and detaching into slots formed on the face of the periphery. As FIG. 1 shows, the periphery can also be formed with a slit 107 along its face, through which the rib 105 is slidably affixed, allowing the rib to slide to different positions. As shown in FIG. 3B, the head 203 of the male connector 104, or cutout 207 of the female connector 106, can also be formed with a flange 303 along the periphery. The top and bottom portions of the flange 303 form a lip 305. A rib 103 can be formed to attach onto the lip 305, and slide to different positions across the periphery. In these ways, the ribs 105 can be repositioned to fill gaps formed by deformities or warps in the track.

[0044] The ribs 105 can be constructed of materials having desirous viscous, elastic, and viscoelastic properties. For example, the ribs 105 can be constructed of rubber or silicone when soft ribs are desired, or plastic when hard ribs are desired. [0045] In some embodiments, the grooves 103 on the first and second surfaces of the track may be formed with ridges 209 that improve traction between wheels of a vehicle and the track segment. The ridges 209 can be spaced apart at

approximately a frequency of 16 ridges/in. In some embodiments, the ridges 209 can be formed substantially transverse to the direction of travel of the vehicle, as shown in FIGs. 1 -3B. The ridges 209 can also be formed diagonally at a forward- facing or rear-facing angle with respect to the direction of travel of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the ridges 209 can also be formed in the same direction of travel of the vehicle. The ridges 209 can be formed at the bottom of the grooves 103, or on the inner and outer walls of the grooves 103. As shown in FIG. 2, nonlinear track segments (e.g., curved track segments) can have one groove 103 in a set of grooves with ridges 209 spaced apart at a different frequency than ridges 209 in a second groove 103 in the set of grooves. Because wooden track segments typically do not have ridges 209, the ridged reversible track segments substantially enhance vehicle stability and traction. Users can identify locations of a wooden track layout that are unstable or lacking sufficient traction, and substitute a wooden track with a ridged reversible track segment to improve traction and stability.

[0046] Modular groove inserts can be placed into the grooves to create grooves of different dimensions and/or patterns. For example, a groove insert can be placed into the groove to create a narrower and shallower groove. Groove inserts can also be used to create different ridge patterns. For example, a groove having horizontal ridges can be overlaid with an insert having diagonal ridges.

[0047] As shown in FIGs. 2 and 3A, crossties 21 1 can be used to join grooves 103 of the track 101 . The crossties 21 1 can join the track grooves 103 at various heights of the track, and as an example, at the middle section of the track, as shown in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the crossties 21 1 can be formed with etchings that resemble a wood grain pattern. Crossties 21 1 can be spaced apart at approximately every 7/16" - 8/16" in. In some embodiments, the crossties 21 1 can be used as a ruler and can indicate the length of the track based on the number of crossties 21 1 that span across a given distance. For example, one crosstie 21 1 can correspond to one inch. The lengths can correspond to various different units of measurement. For example, a crosstie 21 1 can correspond to 2.54 cm of distance, or 25.4 mm of distance. In some embodiments, the crossties 21 1 can be formed at irregular intervals of varying distances.

[0048] In some embodiments, the crossties 21 1 can be formed flush with either, or both, ends of the tracks 101 . The male connector 104 can be formed to extend from the crosstie 21 1 . Similarly, the female connector 106 can be cutout from the crosstie 21 1 .

[0049] In some embodiments, the male/female connectors 104/106 can be lined with seals, such as a grommet or a gasket, for strengthening the connection formed by the interlock. The gasket can be, for example, a tube of rubber or silicon material that lines the periphery of the male/female connector. In some embodiments, the gasket is inflatable, so that when the male/female connector is interlocked with another male/female connector, the gasket can be inflated with air to fill the voids and gaps between the male/female connectors. Likewise, the grommet can reinforce the interlock between the connectors.

[0050] In some embodiments, an adapter can be used to join the track with connectors of vastly different sizes, dimensions, or shapes. For example, the wood track can have a female connector that is much larger than the male connector of the reversible non-wood track. To join these two pieces, an adapter can be constructed to have the same size, shape, and dimensions of the female connector of the wood track, while the adapter can also be constructed with the same size, shape, and dimensions of the male connector of the non-wooden track.

[0051] The adapter can also be used to join two track pieces having connectors of different shapes. For example, the adapter can have a circular-shaped male connector, with a different shaped female connector (e.g., rectangular, trapezoidal, etc.). Different combinations of shapes can be used to join disparate track segments. In this way, the reversible track segments can be cross compatible with tracks created by different manufacturers. For example, as shown in FIG. 6D, reversible track segments can have different combinations of male and female connectors (e.g., two female or two male connectors). As shown in FIG. 6D, some embodiments can include reversible track segments having varying lengths and sizes.

[0052] As shown in FIGs. 1 -6D, the reversible track segments can be non-linear in direction. For example, the reversible track segments can curve to the left or right, with varying radii of curvature (e.g., 4"-8" in.). Track segments can also have elevations, as shown in different views of an example elevated track according to FIG. 6A, whereby the track forms a ramp with a gradual incline or decline. In some embodiments, the reversible track segments can be a switch track. For example, the switch track can be a mechanical switch track as shown in FIG. 6B, or a diagonal switch track, a parallel switch track, a curved switch track, a short curved switch track, a N-point switch track, a T-switch track, or a star switch track. An N-point switch track can be for example, a 3- of 5-point switch track. The reversible track can also be a right-angle cross-track, a diagonal criss-cross track, or a switching and crossing track. The reversible tracks can have a single lane corresponding to one set of grooves on a surface, or multiple lanes corresponding to two or more sets of grooves on a surface. In some embodiments, the reversible track segments can also be buffer stops, or bridges as shown in FIG. 6C.

[0053] FIGs. 7A-7C, which are perspective views of track segments according to example embodiments having curved, elevated, and switch track segments can be reversible. As the perspective views illustrate, the track segments have a first surface and a second surface formed with a set grooves for guiding the movement of a vehicle. As explained above, having grooves on both surfaces allows the track segments to be flipped when so desired and used on both sides. In this way, users may wish to use the reverse side of the track segment if, for example, the first surface of the track becomes damaged or otherwise unusable or lost.

[0054] The embodiments described herein can be used for toy, craft, model, or commercial applications. The vehicles that are operated on the tracks can be trains, cars, trollies and other similar track-guided vehicles. The vehicles can be powered vehicles that are equipped with, or coupled to, a power source, such as a battery or electrical outlet. Such vehicles can be operated through electrical circuits integrated into the tracks, or wirelessly through the use of a remote transceiver. For example, the vehicle may include a battery and wireless transceiver, where the wireless transceiver communicates to a remote control operated by the user. The user can operate the remote control to control the speed and direction of the vehicle. The vehicles can also be unpowered, and require the user to manually push it across the tracks.

[0055] The embodiments described in this disclosure can be combined in various ways. Any aspect or feature that is described for one embodiment can be

incorporated into any other embodiment mentioned in this disclosure. Moreover, any of the embodiments described herein may be hardware-based, software-based and/or comprise a mixture of both hardware and software elements. Accordingly, while various novel features of the inventive principles have been shown, described and pointed out as applied to particular embodiments thereof, it should be understood that various omissions and substitutions and changes in the form and details of the systems and methods described and illustrated, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. Amongst other things, the steps of any described methods may be carried out in different orders in many cases where such may be appropriate. Those skilled in the art will recognize, based on the above disclosure and an understanding therefrom of the teachings of the inventive principles, that the particular hardware and devices that are part of the system described herein, and the general functionality provided by and incorporated therein, may vary in different embodiments of the inventive principles. Accordingly, the particular system components are for illustrative purposes to facilitate a full and complete understanding and appreciation of the various aspects and functionality of particular embodiments of the present principles as realized in system and method embodiments thereof. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the inventive principles can be practiced in other than the described embodiments, which are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation.