Transformable toy vehicle

064 006 U

DESCRIPTION

Transformable toy vehicle.

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to toy vehicles, particularly those that have unusual transformation characteristics.

Background of the invention

Some toy vehicles attempt to simulate real vehicles for entertainment value. The most imaginary toy vehicles try to provide features never seen before in real vehicles with entertainment value. One form of imaginary toy vehicle is a motorized spherical vehicle.

One type of spherical motorized vehicle is described in US Patent No. 6,066,026. Here, two generally hemispherical wheels are connected together with their circular ends facing each other. One or each hemispherical wheel contains its own drive motor, which is mounted on a central support structure substantially or essentially surrounded by the two wheels. The central support structure further supports a power supply also surrounded by the two wheels and an antenna which extends outward from the support element and between the wheels to form a "tail" that extends from the "sphere". In one embodiment, paddles are attached around the outer circumference of each of the hemispherical wheels to drive the spherical toy in water.

Another type of spherical motorized vehicle is shown in US Patent No. 4,671,779. A spherical cover surrounds a drum containing a motor. The cover is formed by a pair of spherical segment support elements that are rotatably attached to the axial ends of the drum, and a set of partially spherical segments that are connected to each other around the support elements and the drum in a manner from detaching or unwinding from the drum and the supporting elements when the drum is actuated to move in a certain direction. The unwound segments form a tail that is dragged behind the drum hanging from the support members. The drum rides on circumferential sets of teeth at either end of the drum. The motor drives the drum to rotate in either of two opposite directions by unwinding the cover segments in one direction and winding the sections into a sphere around the cylinder in the other direction. A pair of "sensors" can be deployed from the support elements through the engine module in the cylinder. The direction of rotation of the motor in the cylinder can be reversed in response to engagement of the sensors with an object such as an obstacle placed in the path of the toy.

It is believed that a different type of motorized spherical toy having a different construction and operation would have significant new and different entertainment value than current toys.

Brief description of the invention

In summary, the present invention is a toy vehicle comprising a central housing having first and second sides arranged in a contrary manner. At least first and second wheels are rotatably coupled with the housing.

The first wheel is rotatably mounted on the first side of the housing and the second wheel is rotatably mounted on the second side of the housing. Each of the first and second wheels has a central hub and a plurality of individual blades rotatably attached to the hub. Each hub has a center arranged along a common first axis of rotation for the first and second wheels. Each blade can rotate about a second blade axis that extends transversely of the first axis. Each blade extends outwardly from the hub toward an end distal to the hub forming a circumferential surface portion on one of the first and second wheels.

Brief description of the drawings

The above summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, an embodiment which is presently preferred is shown in the drawings. However, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and mediations shown.

In the drawings:

Figure 1 is a front left perspective view of a first preferred embodiment of the toy vehicle of the present invention having blades in a first position and a tail in a contracted position;

Figure 2 is a front left perspective view of the toy vehicle of Figure 1 having the blades in a second position and the tail in an extended position;

Figure 3 is a front left perspective view of the toy vehicle of Figure 2 having the blades in an intermediate rotational position and the tail in the extended position;

Figure 4 is an elevated view of the right side of the toy vehicle of Figure 2 omitting a first wheel and a first side of a central housing to expose an on-board control unit, a battery housing, and a gear housing within. of the central accommodation;

Figure 5 is a partially schematic view of the gear housing of Figure 4;

Figure 6 is a partially schematic view of the gear housing of Figure 5 omitting motors and the first portion of the gear housing;

Figure 7 is a schematic view of the gear housing of Figure 4;

Figure 8 is a schematic view of a center shaft assembly of the gear housing of Figure 4;

Figure 9 is a front left perspective view of the toy vehicle of Figure 2 partially schematizing the first wheel;

Figure 10 is a front left perspective view of the toy vehicle of Figure 9 omitting a portion of the first wheel and schematizing the remaining portion of the first wheel;

Figure 11 is a perspective view of a second preferred embodiment of the toy vehicle that has some mechanical components different from the first embodiment, the toy vehicle is in the generally spherical configuration with most of its blades and its chassis housing central removed;

Figure 12 is a view similar to Figure 11 with the blades rotated 90 degrees from the position of Figure 11;

Figure 13 is a perspective view with chassis housing and most of the blades removed in a similar manner to Figures 11 and 12 with the blades rotated 90 degrees from those in Figure 12 and 180 degrees from those in Figure 12. figure 11;

Figure 14 is a bottom perspective view of a chassis of the toy vehicle of Figures 11-13 showing the main drive arrangement;

Figure 15 is a top perspective view of the chassis of Figure 14 with the battery / electronics compartment removed showing the same drive configuration;

Figure 16 is a top perspective view of a third preferred embodiment of the toy vehicle of the present invention at approximately half state transformation with most of its blades, a polygonal housing, and its central housing removed and with several partially fragmented components along a first axis to reveal another possible set of motor-driven components;

Figure 17 is a bottom rear perspective view of the toy vehicle of Figure 16 having several fragmented components along a plane generally taken through the motor centers of the toy vehicle;

Figure 18 is a partial close-up side elevation view of an arm or "tail" drive mechanism;

Figure 19 is a front right perspective view of the second embodiment of the toy vehicle with most of its blades, one polygonal housing, and an outer surface of the other polygonal housing removed;

Figure 20 is a perspective view of shuttles of the toy vehicle of Figure 16;

Figure 21 is a perspective view of the shuttles of Figure 20 having a lead screw attached thereto and a lead screw housing surrounding the lead screw;

Figure 22 is a perspective view of a portion of the toy vehicle shown in Figure 16, the portion has some components removed shown in Figure 16;

Figure 23 is a perspective view of the portion of the toy vehicle shown in Figure 22 having motors attached thereto;

Figure 24 is a perspective view of the portion of the toy vehicle of Figure 23 having a "wheel" attached thereto;

Figure 25 is a perspective view of a fourth preferred embodiment of the toy vehicle of the present invention at approximately half state transformation with most of its blades removed and an articulated tail in a stored position; and Figure 26 is a lower horizontal projection of the toy vehicle of Figure 25 with the hinged tail in an extended position.

Detailed description of the invention

For convenience only and not limitation, certain terminology is used in the following description. The words "right", "left", "top", and "bottom" designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The terminology includes the words specifically mentioned above, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

With detailed reference to the drawings, where like numbers indicate like elements, a first preferred embodiment of a transformable toy vehicle according to the present invention is shown in Figures 1-10, indicated generally at 10, in a generally general configuration. spherical for motion on a surface (not shown). Beginning with reference to Figure 1, the toy vehicle 10 includes a central housing 12, preferably having first and second sides arranged opposite each other 12a, 12b. The central housing 12 preferably also includes a front cover 12c which is coupled with the first and second sides 12a, 12b. Although it is preferred, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the front cover 12c is omitted, leaving only the first and second sides 12a, 12b, since the toy vehicle 10 is capable of operation as described herein. .

The toy vehicle 10 preferably includes at least two reconfigurable "wheels" rotatably coupled with the central housing 12. Specifically, a first "wheel" 30 is rotatably mounted on the first side 12a of the housing 12, and a The second "wheel" 40 is rotatably mounted on the second side 12b of the housing 12. The rotation of the first and second "wheels" 30, 40 causes the toy vehicle 10 to move on the surface.

Referring now to Figures 1-3, each of the first and second "wheels" 30, 40 has a central hub 50 and a plurality of individual blades 20 rotatably attached to hub 50. Preferably, each hub 50 has seven blades 20 rotatably attached thereto, circumferentially disposed around hub 50, although there may be more or less than seven blades 20, since toy vehicle 10 is still capable of operation as described herein. Each blade 20 has a length much greater than its thickness and widens in width as it extends away from the hub 50. Each blade 20 is preferably at least slightly curved along a longitudinal axis thereof and transversely. in the width direction. Each hub 50 has a center generally disposed along a first axis of rotation 50 '. As will be described later, the first and second wheels 30, 40, including their respective hubs 50, can rotate with respect to the central housing 12, such that the first and second wheels 30, 40 rotate about the first axis of rotation 50 '. . Each blade 20 can further rotate about a second blade axis 20 'which extends transversely and preferably generally radially from the first axis 50'.

Preferably, the blades 20 can rotate about second individual axes 20 'between a first position 22 (figure 1) and a second position 24 (figure 2) rotationally different from the first position 22. Because the blades 20 are curved, in the first position 22, the first and second wheels 30, 40 are generally cupped with open ends directed internally toward each other and the central housing 12, such that the central housing 12 is at the same time. less partially received in prime3

ES 1 064 006 U ra and second wheels 30, 40, partially covered by blades 20, and the toy vehicle 10 is generally generally spherical in shape. In the second position 24, the first and second wheels 30, 40 are generally cupped with the open ends directed outwardly away from each other and from the central housing 12, thus exposing at least a large portion of the central housing 12. It is preferable that the first and second wheels 30, 40, are generally hemispherical in the first and second positions 22, 24, although it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the first and second wheels 30, 40 have configurations other than generally hemispherical, such as semi-oval or conical, since the toy vehicle is capable of operation as described herein. Furthermore, the blades do not have to be cupped, but instead can be essentially straight or curved only in one direction. In addition, the blades can be configured and sized to fully surround the central housing 12, if desired.

It is preferred that the first and second wheels 30,40, and specifically the blades 20 thereof, can rotate approximately 180 degrees between the first and second positions 22, 24 and furthermore can be oriented in at least one intermediate rotational position 26 between the first and second positions 22, 24. Preferably, the blades 20 may be oriented at least in an intermediate position 26 rotatably equidistant between the first and second positions 22, 24, such that the first and second wheels 30, 40 generally resemble paddle wheels, as shown in Figure 3, to facilitate movement of the toy vehicle 10 on water or soft surfaces such as snow, sand, etc. Although this is the preferred intermediate position 26, it is preferable that the blades 20 are capable of being held in any desired rotational position between the first and second positions 22, 24, such that the first and second wheels 30, 40 have essentially an unlimited number. intermediate positions. It is part of the invention that the blades 20 can rotate only 90 degrees (that is, between positions 22 and 26 or 26 and 24) or more than 180 degrees. Preferably, the blades 20 are linked on each wheel 30, 40 so as to rotate in unison, as will be described in detail below.

Referring to Figures 2 and 4, the toy vehicle 10 further includes a tail 70 preferably movably coupled to the central housing 12. Preferably, the tail 70 has at least one first end 70d secured to the remainder of the toy vehicle. 10 and a second free end, arranged opposite 70e. It is preferred that the first end 70d of the tail 70 is pivotally attached to the central housing 12 through suitable means, such as a bolt 71. The tail 70 preferably has a contracted position 72 (shown in imaginary lines in Figure 4) and an extended position 74. The tail 70 is preferably flexible such that the tail 70, in the contracted position 72, generally wraps around the central housing 12 and in the extended position 74, the tail 70 extends outwardly from the central housing 12 so that at least the second end 70e is separated from the central housing 12 and beyond an imaginary cylinder having a cross section defined by circumferential perimeters, indicated in imaginary lines in Figures 3 and 4, of the two wheels 30, 40, preferably in all possible configurations of the blades 20. Preferably, the tail 70 is formed by at least two articulated segments 70a, 70b, in such a way that a first segment 70a is rotatably coupled to central housing 12 and at least one second segment 70b is rotatably coupled to first segment 70a. More specifically, the tail 70 is preferably formed of at least three segments with the first segment 70a rotatably coupled to the central housing 12, the second segment 70b rotatably coupled to the first segment 70a, and a third segment 70c coupled. rotatably to the second segment 70b. Although it is preferable to have a hinged tail, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the tail 70 can be made flexible in other ways. For example, the tail may be provided with a spring element that is partially wound around the central housing and that reacts elastically to unwinding. Also, the tail does not need to be flexible. It can be relatively rigid and can be attached to the central housing so that it is always extended or can be movably mounted so that it is extended and contracted in a controlled manner.

Preferably, when in the contracted position 72, the tail 70 is disposed between open ends of the first and second wheels 30, 40 with the blades 20 in the first position 22, so that the toy vehicle 10 is generally spherical or , alternatively, generally oval in shape. Preferably, tail 70 includes at least one tail wheel 76 proximate second end 70e for contacting a surface (not shown) in at least the extended position 74 of tail 70. Tail wheel 76 preferably it is rotatably coupled to the second end 70e of the tail 70 to roll along the surface during movement of the toy vehicle 10. Although only one tail wheel 76 is shown, there may be more than one wheel or alternatively no wheel on the tail 70, so that the second end 70e of the tail 70 simply slides along the surface during movement of the vehicle. toy 10.

If desired, the tail 70 and the blades 20 of the first and second wheels 30, 40 can be made to float in water. The buoyancy of the tail 70 and blades 20 can be accomplished in any number of ways, including, but not limited to, forming the tail 70 and blades 20 into generally hollow, sealed, cover-like and / or tail-making shapes. 70 and blades 20 at least partially of a sealed plastic foam material (eg, closed cell or solid liner). Although these methods of floating the tail 70 and blades 20 are preferred, they are not intended to be limiting, as it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the tail 70 and blades 20 are otherwise made buoyant. generally known to the person skilled in the art or that they are not made buoyant for the use of the toy vehicle only on solid surfaces. By constructing the blades 20 and tail 70 in such a way that the blades 20 and tail 70 are floating, and by properly sealing the electronics, the toy vehicle 10 can be made capable of moving along the surface of the water, if so it is desired.

ES 1 064 006 U

Referring to Figure 4, preferably, a gear housing 80 is disposed within central housing 12 and includes first and second portions 80a, 80b. Preferably, the central housing 12 is also an external housing and is decorated in some way to be visually interesting to a user. For example, the outer housing 12 can be decorated to resemble an animal, a monster, or an insect, although this is not intended to be limiting. As such, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention for the outer housing 12 to be decorated in any way. Optionally, the outer housing can be omitted and the gear housing 80 can be used as the center housing of the toy vehicle, with or without decoration.

Referring now to Figures 5-8, preferably housed within gear housing 80 are first and second drive gear trains 82, 84 and a transformation gear train 86. The first and second drive gear trains drive 82, 84 and transformation gear train 86 are preferably reduction gear trains. Preferably, first drive gear train 82 is operatively coupled to first wheel 30. Second drive gear train 84 is operatively coupled to second wheel 40. Transform gear train 86 is operatively coupled with a center shaft assembly 90 that is at least partially housed within gear housing 80. Preferably, at least the first preferably reversible motor 83 is operatively coupled to at least the first wheel 30 through the first drive gear train 82 to drive at least the first wheel 30, and at least a second preferably reversible motor 85 is operatively coupled to at least second wheel 40 via second drive gear train 84 to drive at least second wheel 40. Specifically, it is preferred that the pinions 83a, 85a of the first and second motors 83, 85 mesh with the first and second drive gear trains 82, 84, respectively, so that the first and second motors 83, 85 drive separately. and independently the first and second wheels 30, 40. In this way, the first and second wheels 30, 40 can be driven in the same direction to move the toy vehicle 10 in either a forward or a backward direction. The first and second wheels 30, 40 can also be driven in opposite directions to quickly return the toy vehicle 10 to place around its center either to the left or to the right. Alternatively, only one of the first and second wheels 30, 40 may be driven (the other of the first and second wheels 30, 40 not being driven) in order to return the toy vehicle 10 generally around the non-driven wheel slower than if the first and second wheels 30, 40 were driven in opposite directions.

Referring specifically to Figures 5 and 7, the first and second drive gear trains 82, 84 are essentially similar. As such, only the first drive gear train 82 will be described in detail. The first motor 83 preferably is secured to the second portion 80b of the gear housing 80 so that the pinion 83a of the first motor 83 extends through the second portion 80b and through an opening 102a in a first innermost cover 102 and it meshes with a first straight portion 822a of a first combination gear 822 of the first drive gear train 82. A second smaller straight portion 822b of the first combination gear 822 meshes with a first straight portion 824a of a second combination gear 824. A second smaller straight portion 824b of the second combination gear 824 then meshes with a drive gear 96, the which, as will be described in detail below, is part of the center axle assembly 90 and is coupled with the first wheel 30. In this way, the first motor 83 is capable of driving the first wheel 30 through the first drive gear train 82. Similarly, the second motor 85 is capable of driving the second wheel 40 through the second gear train. drive 84, in order to separately and independently drive the first and second wheels 30, 40.

It is preferred that at least one of the first and second combined gears 822, 824 of the first drive gear train includes a clutch (not shown) therein in order to limit damage to the first drive gear train 82 and / or or the first motor 83 if the first wheel 30 stops or otherwise stops during actuation thereof. Preferably, the second combination gear 824 includes the clutch. Although the clutch is not shown in detail, such clutches are known in the art. Preferably, the clutch included with the second combination gear 824 is a generally circular leaf spring disposed between the first and second spaced straight portions 824a, 824b, which allows rotation of the first straight portion 824a with respect to the second straight portion 824b. when a certain threshold torque is reached, The threshold torque is generally the amount of torque experienced by the second combination gear 824 when the first wheel 30 is driven but unable to move.

Referring again to Figures 58, the transformation gear train 86 is preferably partially disposed within the second portion 80b of the gear housing 80 and is driven by a third preferably reversible transformation motor 87, which is preferably coupled with the first portion of the gear housing 80. As will be described later, the transform gear train 86 is operatively coupled to the blades 20 of the first and second wheels 30, 40. Instead, the transform motor 87 is operatively coupled to the blades 20 with in order to rotate the blades 20 to transform the toy vehicle 10 by rotating the blades 20 about the blade axes 20 'between at least the first and second positions 22, 24.

Referring specifically to Figures 5-7, a pinion 87a of the transformation motor 87 meshes with a first straight portion 862a of a first combination gear 862. A second smaller straight portion 862b of the first combination gear 862 meshes with a second, smaller straight portion 862b of the first combination gear 862. first straight portion 864a of a second combination gear 864. A second, smaller straight portion 864b of the se5

ES 1 064 006 A second combination gear 864 subsequently meshes with a first straight portion 866a of a third combination gear 866. A second smaller straight portion 866b of the third combination gear 866 subsequently engages with a rotatably mounted threaded spur gear 98 in the center shaft assembly 90. The structure and operation of the threaded gear 98 will be described later.

Preferably, the transformation gear train 86 includes a slip clutch (not numbered) on the third combination gear 866 in order to limit damage to the transformation gear train 86 and / or the transformation motor 87 if, during the drive of the transformation gear train 86, the blades are immobilized or otherwise stop rotating or are manually forced to rotate about the second axes 20 '. It is preferred that the third combination gear 866 has spaced first and second straight portions 866a, 866b with mating surfaces (eg, toothed surfaces, not shown) therebetween. The second straight portion 866b is preferably biased towards the first straight portion 866a through a spring (not numbered), so that, under normal conditions, the mating surfaces prevent slippage between the first and second straight portions 866a, 866b to allow the transformation motor 87 to cause the rotation of the threaded gear 98. However, if the blades 20 bind and prevent the rotation of the threaded gear 98 during the drive of the transform gear train 86 through the transform motor 87, the mating surfaces between the first and second straight portions 866a, 866b become slide with the second straight portion 866b which is pushed against the spring and away from the first straight portion 866a, thus allowing the first straight portion 866a to continue to rotate while also allowing the second straight portion 866b not to rotate. Although it is preferred that the slip clutch be included within the third combination gear 866, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention for the slip clutch to be disposed in a different portion of the transformation gear train 86 or to be a shape different clutch. Such alternating clutches are generally known in the art and need not be specifically described herein.

Referring now to Figure 8, the center shaft assembly 90 preferably includes a rod 91 having caps in the form of drive gear brackets 97 rotatably disposed at either end of the rod 91. Rod 91 and drive gear brackets 97 are partially disposed within a threaded tube or screw element 92 so that at least the ends of drive gear brackets 97 extend outwardly from either end of the tube. threaded 92. Rod 91 keeps flange portions 97a abutting against annular end walls (not shown) of threaded tube 92. Threaded gear 98, briefly discussed above, has internal threads 98a (partially shown in imaginary lines) within a hole thereof for threaded engagement with threads 92b on the outer surface of threaded tube 92. A collar 92a is mates with one end of threaded tube 92 to retain threaded gear 98 on threaded tube 92 and drive gear supports 97 and rod 91 on threaded tube 92.

The threaded gear 98 is essentially inserted between the first and second innermost covers 102, 104 through which the threaded tube 92 is disposed when the gear housing 80 is assembled. The first and second innermost covers 102, 104 are engaged with the first and second portions 80a, 80b, respectively, of the gear housing 80. At least the ends of the drive gear brackets 97 extend through the first and second innermost covers 102, 104 so that the drive gears 96 can be slidably disposed therein in assembly manner. supporting outer surfaces of the first and second innermost covers 102, 104.

Preferably, the drive gears 96 rotate with the drive gear brackets 97, while being axially slidable with respect thereto. Preferably, this is accomplished by slidably keying the drive gears 96 with the drive gear brackets 97, for example, by forming the ends of the drive gear brackets 97 with a hexagonal cross section and forming the gears of drive 96 with a hexagonal mating hole, thus allowing axial sliding movement of the drive gear brackets 97 relative to the drive gears 96 and at the same time rotatably fix the drive gears 96 with the drive gear brackets 97.

Engaged with the ends of the drive gear brackets 97 and extending axially outward therefrom are the rack gears 100. Center shaft assembly 90 further includes limit switches 94, preferably coupled to each of the innermost first and second covers 102, 104, which function to cut off power to transformer motor 87 when slip limits of the motor are reached. center shaft assembly 90. The drive gear supports 97 and rack gears 100 together constitute first and second vane transforming elements extending from the first and second sides 12a, 12b of the central housing 12. These vane transforming elements are movable in a manner (axially along the first axis 50 ') to rotate the blades 90 of each wheel 30, 40.

Generally speaking, center shaft assembly 90 allows rack gears 100, drive gear brackets 97, rod 91, and threaded tube 92 and collar 92a to move axially with respect to drive gears 96, the threaded gear 98, and the first and second innermost covers 102, 104, as well as the gear housing 80 and the center housing 12. At the same time, the center shaft assembly 90 allows the drive gears 96 and the drive gear brackets 97 to rotate separately and independently of each other without affecting the above-described axial movement. This is done by retaining a drive gear 96 between the first portion 80a of the gear housing 80 and the first innermost cover 102, the other gear6

ES 1 064 006 Drive point 96 between the second portion 80b of the gear housing 80 and the second innermost cover 104, and as described above, the threaded gear 98 between the first and second innermost covers 102, 104, of so that each can be rotated but not moved axially relative to gear housing 80. However, the threaded tube 92 is capable of moving axially along the first axis 50 'during rotation of the threaded gear 98, which causes the threads 98a of the threaded gear 98 to move along the threads 92b of the tube. threading 92 during rotation of the threading gear 98 through the transforming gear train 86. Because threaded gear 98 is unable to move axially, it forces threaded tube 92 to move axially along first axis 50 '. By doing this, the drive gear supports 97, rod 91, and rack gears 100 are further caused to move axially along the first axis 50 '. However, regardless of the axial position of the aforementioned components, the drive gears 96 are still capable of being turned by the first and second drive gear trains 8 respective 2, 84 in order to drive the first and second wheels. 30, 40. In this way, the first and second wheels 30, 40 can be independently driven with the blades 20 fixed in any blade position, for example, any of the first, second and intermediate positions 22, 24, 26 (as well as any other position). intermedia), and also during the rotation of the blades 20 between positions.

Referring now to Figures 9 and 10, a generally cylindrical collar 54 is preferably attached to a distal end portion 96a of drive gear 96 that extends outwardly from first side 12a of central housing 12 and first portion 80a. of gear housing 80. Because collar 54 is fixed to drive gear 96, collar 54 rotates with drive gear 96. An internal portion 50b of the central hub 50 is fixed to the collar 54 and therefore to the drive gear 96 in a manner to rotate therewith. The blades 20 are preferably rotatably retained between the inner portion 50b and an outer portion or cover portion 50a of the central hub 50 such that the first wheel 30 and its blades 30 rotate about the first axis 50 'together with the hub. central 50. In this way, the drive of the first wheel 30 is performed. The second wheel 40 is driven in a similar manner.

Still referring to Figures 9 and 10, disposed within collar 54 are a series of gears including a pinion 56 engaged and rotatable through axial sliding movement of rack gear 100. A spur drive gear 58 is engaged. with pinion 56 so as to rotate in the same direction with it. A driven spur gear 59 is arranged on the other side of pinion 56. The driven spur gear 59 is not rotatably engaged with the pinion 56. Disposed within the inner portion 50b of the central hub 50, is a combined crown gear 52. Combined crown gear 52 includes a first crown portion 52a and a second crown portion 52b coupled for rotation therewith through suitable means, such as a hexagonal boss 53a on the first crown portion 52a that engages with a Hexagonal gap 53b in the second crown portion 52b. The first crown portion 52a is driven by the spur drive gear 58 to rotate about the first axis 50 'while allowing axial movement of the rack gear 100. This, in turn, causes the second crown portion 52b to also rotate around the first axis 50 '. The second crown portion 52b engages each of a plurality of blade gears 21, which are fixed to each blade 20 and also disposed within the central hub 50, captured between the outer and inner portions 50a, 50b of the central hub. fifty.

Preferably, each blade 20 is rotatably mounted on a post 28a (arranged along the second axis 20 ') of a wheel flower 28, also captured within the hub 50, so that the rotation of the second portion of Crown 52b causes the rotation of each of the blade gears 21 and, instead, the rotation of each blade 20 about its respective post 28a. In this way, when the rack gear 100 moves axially along the first axis 50 ', each of the blades 20 of the first wheel 30 is rotated in unison. Because rack gear 100 associated with second wheel 40 is also operatively coupled with transform gear train 86, it also slides axially along first axis 50 'to cause blades 20 of second wheel 40 rotate in unison with each other and with the blades 20 of the first wheel 30. In this way, the toy vehicle 10 is capable of being transformed between a generally spherical shape with the blades 20 in the first position 22 (Figure 1) and a transformed shape with the blades 20 in the second position 24 (Figure 2).

Referring to Figure 4, the toy vehicle 10 further includes an on-board control unit 16 operatively coupled with the first, second, and transform engines 83, 85, 87 and configured to receive and process control signals transmitted from a remote transmission source, preferably wireless (e.g. a conventional, manually operated controller, not shown) separated from the toy vehicle 10 to remotely selectively control the operation of the first, second and transformer motors 83, 85, 87, and consequently, selectively control the rotation and reconfiguration of the first and second wheels 30, 40. The on-board control unit 16 is preferably electrically driven, like the first, second and transformer motors 83, 85, 87. Preferably, a battery power source (not shown) disposed within a battery housing 14 supplies the electrical power necessary to power the toy vehicle 10. Although it is preferred that the toy vehicle 10 be remotely controlled, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the toy vehicle 10 be controlled in other ways, such as, but not limited to, programming the toy vehicle 10 so that it moves in a predefined way. Although the first and second motors are preferred for independent wheel drive, in smaller variations of the invention, a single motor can be provided to drive both wheels simultaneously in a forward direction or in forward directions.

ES 1 064 006 U opposite when said motor is reversed. Similarly, although a transform motor is used to move the center shaft assembly axially, the center shaft assembly can be moved in other ways, particularly in smaller versions of the invention. For example, a center shaft assembly can be electromagnetically moved between two extreme axial positions or it can be biased towards an extreme axial position and actuated against bias towards an opposite extreme axial position or it can be moved pneumatically or hydraulically (with or without deviation of spring). In addition, the blades can be configured to be turned manually by turning gear-linked blades directly by hand or by means of a suitable implement, such as a wrench.

In use, the toy vehicle 10 is driven on a surface by rotation of the first and / or second wheels 30,40. The toy vehicle 10 can be transformed by causing the blades 20 of the first and second wheels 30,40 to rotate about the second axes 20 'between the first position 22 in which the toy vehicle is generally spherical in shape and the second position 24 in which the entire central housing 12 is exposed. Furthermore, the tail 70 is capable of being placed in the extended position 74 or partially wrapped around the central housing 12 in the contracted position 72 with rotation of the central housing 12 caused by the driving of the first and second wheels 30, 40. Although this is preferred, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention for the tail 70 to be actuated in such a way that it can be caused to move to the extended position 74 and back to the contracted position 72 regardless of actuation of the first and second wheels 30, 40. The blades 20 of the toy vehicle 10 can also be configured in the intermediate position 26 (figure 3), so that the first and second wheels 30, 40 resemble paddle wheels, or any other rotational position between the first and second positions 22 , 24. If provided with floating blades 20 and tail 70, the toy vehicle 10, otherwise sealed, can then be driven on the water surface. Although intended to be driven on water when in the intermediate position 26, the toy vehicle 10 can also be driven on dry land with the blades 20 in any intermediate position. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the toy vehicle 10 may be driven in water with the blades 20 in either of the first and second positions 22, 24, although this is not as effective.

Although the above-described manner of driving and transforming the toy vehicle 10 is preferred, this is not intended to be limiting. As such, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that alternate methods of driving and transforming the toy vehicle 10 are also contemplated, not limited for example to the methods discussed below.

Referring now to Figures 11-15, a transformable toy vehicle 1010 is shown in accordance with a second preferred embodiment. The transformation of the wheels 1014, 1016 and the operation of the vehicle 1010 are better understood with respect to Figures 13-15 which show the various drive components of the vehicle 1010. A central chassis 1012 typically supports an outer housing (not shown, but generally similar to the central housing 12 of the first preferred embodiment), which has been removed in Figures 11-15. The central chassis 1012 is formed in part by parallel plates 1036, 1037, 1038 whose contiguous pairs are held together through various shafts (not numbered), spacers 1039, and motors 1040, 1042, and 1044. The three engines 1040, 1042 and 1044 are best seen in Figures 14 and 15, which are viewed from an opposite side of the vehicle 1010 to that illustrated in Figure 13 and from which the plate 1038 of Figure 13 has been removed.

The motor 1040 controls the rotation of the first wheel 1014 while the motor 1042 controls the rotation of the second wheel 1016 independently of the first wheel 1014. The pinion 1041 of the motor 1040 drives a reduction gear train, indicated generally at 1050, the which drives a final spur gear 1051. The final gear 1051 of the reduction drive 1050 is engaged and drives a spur gear 1052 fixedly mounted on an inner end of a drive shaft 1054 driving the first wheel 1014. Although the drive shaft 1054 may be solid, it is preferably hollow so it can receive a stronger support shaft, for example a metal shaft (hidden), to support the drive shaft 1054. Similarly, a pinion (not shown) in motor 1042 drives a second reduction gear train 1060, partially viewed in Figure 13, substantially if not exactly identical to the first reduction gear drive train 1050. The last gear of the second reduction drive train (not shown) similarly drives a spur gear (also not shown) fixedly mounted on the inner end of the second drive shaft 1064 driving the second wheel 1016. In this way, each Wheel 1014, 1016 is separately and independently driven by its own motor, 1040, 10425, respectively. Again, the support shaft (not shown) preferably extends through the second drive shaft 1064. A polygonal housing 1020 (Figures 11-13) is fixedly mounted to the outer / distal end of each of the drive shafts. drive 1054, 1064 to rotate with that axis. Similar to the first preferred embodiment, housings 1020 receive and support a plurality of blades 1018 that form each wheel 1014, 1016.

Referring now particularly to Figures 14 and 15, pinion 1045 of transformation motor 1044 drives a third reduction gear train, generally indicated 1070, the final spur gear 1071 of which drives a spur gear 1065 at an inner end of a " second ”screw element 1066, which is responsible for the convertibility of the second wheel 1016. The second screw element 1066 is formed through a sleeve 1067 which is fixedly connected to the spur gear 1065, is supported on the second drive shaft 1064 and carries a helical screw thread 1068 on its cylindrical outer surface. The rotation of the second screw element 1066 further passes through its spur gear 1065 and through a pair of idle spur gears 1072, 1074 fixedly mounted together on a shaft 1073 for common rotation. The first idle gear 1072 meshes with the spur gear 1055 at an internal / proximal end of a

ES 1 064 006 U "first" screw element 1056, which is responsible for the transformability of the first wheel 1014. The first screw element 1056 is substantially if not exactly identical to the second screw element 1066 and also It is formed through a sleeve 1057 bearing a helical screw thread 1058 on its outer cylindrical surface. Referring to Figure 13, a multi-piece "nut" 1080 is mounted on each screw element 1056, 1066 to move axially along the screw element through helical threads 1058, 1068. An internal component 1082 of the nut 1080 is not rotatably coupled to the chassis through suitable means such as - a bolt (not shown) extending from an interior side of the interior component 1082 to the chassis 1012, for example, the outer housing 1034 and / or one or more parallel plates 10361038, etc. An outer component 1084 of nut 1080 mounts for free rotation to inner component 1082 and indirectly engages polygonal surface housing 1020 for rotation with that housing. More particularly, the outer component 1084 mates with an inner member 1021 (shown separate from the nut 1080 in Figure 13 for clarity), which is polygonal in this embodiment and which is telescopically movable relative to the polygonal housing 1020. Although no figure is shown, supported on the axially extending inner polygonal member 1021, generally parallel to a first axis 1032, are a plurality of zippers preferably equal in number to the number of blades 1018 supported by the outer housing 1020. The racks are compressed in and out of the outer housing 1020 by virtue of the movement of the multi-piece nut 1080 along any drive axis 1054, 1064. Each rack (not shown) is driven to engage a spur gear mounted on an inner end of each blade shaft (not shown) within polygon housing 1020 to rotate that spur gear and its connected blade as the Inner polygon member 1021 moves in and out of polygon housing 1020 in multi-piece nut 1080. In this way, each of the two wheels 1014 and 1016 is identically transformed and each of the individual blades 1018 rotates in unison between the generally spherical opening configurations (i.e., opening inwards) and outwards 1024, 1026 of each wheel 1014, 1016.

At the same time, an extendable arm 1028 that forms a "tail" is slidably supported on an inner frame member 1086, mounted on one side of parallel plates 1036-1038 and motor drive assemblies on chassis 1012. A pinion 1076 is provided on shaft 1073 between spur gears 1072, 1074 and engages a rack 1078 (FIG. 13) provided along one side of arm 1028 facing pinion 1076. Thus, when the third transform motor 1044 is activated, not only do the blades 1018 of the wheels 1014 and 1016 rotate, but the arm 1028 moves inward as the vehicle 1010 transforms into a generally spherical configuration similar to a sphere 1024 and outward as the wheels 1014, 1026 are reversed to expose their inner sides outwardly in the second configuration 1026 of vehicle 1010. Referring to FIG. 14, an electronic waterproof housing 1088 can be fixedly supported on the inner frame member 1086 as well, receiving and protecting a battery power supply and a control circuit.

Referring to Figures 16-24, various portions of a third preferred embodiment of a generally spherical transformation toy vehicle are shown, indicated generally at 1110, in accordance with the present invention. The toy vehicle 1110 is generally similar in overall appearance to the toy vehicles 10, 1010 of the first and second preferred embodiments. That is, the toy vehicle 1110 includes a central housing 1134 and generally hemispherical first and second "wheels" 1114, 1116 (although the second "wheel" is not shown in the figures, it is generally similar and preferably is a mirror image of the first "wheel" 1114). Each of the first and second "wheels" 1114, 1116 is preferably formed by a plurality of individual blades 1118 mounted around the sides of a polygonal housing 1120. Preferably, the center housing 1134 has an ornate outer cover 1135 attached thereto, as shown in Figure 19. The ornamental outer cover 1135 preferably at least partially covers the center housing 1134. Although it is preferred that the toy vehicle 1110 includes the outer cover 1135, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the outer cover 1135 may be omitted. If the outer cover 1135 is omitted, it is further contemplated that the central housing 1134 is ornamented.

Referring first to Figures 16, 17 and 22, the drive mechanisms for each of the first and second wheels 1114, 1116 can be seen. Initially, it is noted that the mechanism for driving the first wheel 1114 is essentially similar and is generally a mirror image of the mechanism for driving the second wheel 1116. The drive mechanism for the first wheel 1114 (hereinafter referred to as the "first drive mechanism") includes a first motor 1140, which preferably is attached to a first portion 1134a (FIG. 23) of the center housing 1134. The first motor 1140 has an output shaft and where a first pinion 1141 is attached. Pinion 1141 engages with and drives a first reduction gear train 1150, including a first combination gear 1152, a second combination gear 1154, and a drive gear 1156. Specifically, pinion 1141 engages with and rotates a portion long straight portion of the first combination gear 1152. A small straight portion of the first combination gear 1152 engages and rotates a long straight portion of a second combination gear 1154. A small straight portion of the second combination gear 1154 engages and rotates the drive gear 1156.

The drive gear 1156 preferably rotates about a first axis 1132 defined as the line passing through the centers of each of the first and second wheels 1114, 1116. As will be described in detail below, preferably, the drive gear drive 1156 is rotatably attached to a first shuttle 1138,

ES 1 064 006 U which is essentially an elongated tubular element also positioned along the first axis 1132. The drive gear 1156 is preferably rotatably attached to an inner portion 1120a of the polygonal housing 1120, so that the rotation of the gear drive 1156 causes rotation of polygonal housing 1120. Preferably, each of the polygonal housings 1120 includes an inner portion 1120a proximate the central housing 1134 and an outer portion 1120b that engages one end of the inner portion 1120a and faces out of the central housing 1134. The rotation of the polygonal housing 1120 then causes the blades 1118 to rotate around the first axis 1132, thereby rotating the first wheel 1114.

The drive mechanism for the second wheel 1116 is essentially similar to the drive mechanism for the first wheel 1114. That is, the second drive mechanism includes a second motor 1142 preferably fixed to a second portion 1134b (FIG. 23) of the central housing 1134, a second pinion 1143, a first combination gear 1162, a second combination gear 1164, and a transmission gear. drive 1166 (figure 22) that is attached to a second shuttle 1139 (figure

20) and an inner portion 1120a of the second polygonal housing 1120. The first and second combined gears 1162, 1164 and the drive gear 1166 form a second reduction gear train 1160, which allows the motor 1142 to drive the second wheel 1116 of the same way as described above with respect to the first drive mechanism. With each wheel 1114, 1116 driven separately and independently by the first and second drive mechanisms, the toy vehicle 1110 can be operated in the same manner as the toy vehicles 10, 1010.

Referring now to Figures 16, 17, 20, 21 and 24, the mechanism for transforming the toy vehicle 1110 operates to simultaneously rotate all of the blades 1118 of the toy vehicle 1110. The transforming mechanism includes a transforming motor 1144 having a third pinion 1145 fixed to an output shaft thereof. The transformation motor 1144 preferably attaches to the second portion 1134b of the central housing 1134. The third pinion 1145 drives a third reduction gear train 1170, which includes a first combination gear 1172, a second combination gear 1174, and a third combination gear 1176. A small straight portion of the third combination gear 1176 engages and rotates a worm gear 1178 generally rotatable about the first axis 1132. Essentially, the worm gear 1178 has an outer circumferential spur gear portion to engage the small straight portion of the third combination gear 1176 and inner circumferential threads within a center hole. The worm gear 1178 mates with a rotationally fixed worm element 1136 (Figures 16 and

21), which is centered and generally slides along the first axis 1132.

Referring to Figure 16, screw element 1136 is generally a tubular element having external threads around an outer surface thereof. These external threads mate with the internal threads of the 1178 worm gear. Since screw element 1136 is rotatably fixed by protrusions 1136a but slide side to side, rotation of screw gear 1178, which rotates but is slidably fixed, causes screw element 1136 to translate side to side. side along the first axis 1132, depending on the direction of rotation of the worm gear 1178. The translation of the screw element 1136 causes the translation of the first and second shuttles 1138, 1139, the inner ends of which are positioned within the screw element 1136.

Referring to Figure 20, a modified screw element 1136 'is preferably held within an inner housing 1133 which is secured within the central housing 1134. The inner housing 1133 is preferably formed in two portions 1133a, 1133b and functions to restrict that the screw element 1136 'rotates and the screw gear 1178 is translated. Preferably, this is accomplished by forming the screw element 1136 'with non-circular ends 1136a' (generally hexagonal in shape) that fits within corresponding non-circular tubular portions (eg, hexagonal shape) 1133c, 1133d of the inner housing 1133. In this manner, the hexagonal shaped ends 1136a allow the screw element 1136 'to slide along the first axis 1132 within the hexagonal shaped portions 1133c, 1133d of the inner housing 1133 but restrict the screw element 1136' from rotating. Also, the portions 1133a, 1133b of the inner housing 1133 bear on each side of the worm gear 1178 to allow it to rotate about the first axis 1132 but limits it in translating along the first axis 1132.

With reference to Figure 16, preferably, the first (inner) ends of the first and second shuttles 1138, 1139 are preferably held in contact relationship by means of the springs 1137 positioned within the screw element 1136 between the ends of the element. screw 1136 and the flanges placed on the first inner ends of the first and second shuttles 1138, 1139. That is, the first ends of the first and second shuttles 1138, 1139 are biased toward each other by springs 1137 for support. The same arrangement is used in the configuration of Figures 20-23. This arrangement allows each shuttle 1138, 1138 ', 1139, 1139' to rotate within its respective screw element 1136, 1136 ', yet move only axially with screw element 1136, 1136'.

Still referring to Figure 16, the second (outer) ends of the first and second shuttles 1138, 1139 extend outwardly from the ends of the screw element 1136, along the first axis 1132, through the gear wheels. respective drives 1156, 1166, and in the respective interior portions 1120a of the polygonal housings 1120. Shuttles 1138, 1139 are rotatably fixed on their respective drive gears 1156, 1166 to rotate with gears 1156, 1166, preferably by mating keyed surfaces (eg, hexagonal or other non-circular cross sections) on shuttles 1138 , 1139 and in gears 1156, 1166. Crown gears 1121 are positioned within inner portions 1120a of

ES 1 064 006 U the polygonal housings 1120. Each has a sleeve 1121a that extends inward from a gear disc 1121b and engages the second (outer) ends of the first and second shuttles 1138, 1139. The second ends of the first and second shuttles 1138, 1139 preferably slide axially with respect to the crown gears 1121 in the sleeves 1121a.

It is preferred that the sliding of the first and second shuttles 1138, 1139 impart rotation to the crown gears 1121. This can be accomplished by supplying a bolt that attaches to an inner surface of the crown gear sleeve 1121a and slides along of a generally spirally formed groove provided in the outer surface of each of the first and second shuttles 1138, 1139 as shown in FIG. 16. Bolt and slot locations can be reversed. In this manner, the sliding of the first and second shuttles 1138, 1139 along the first axis 1132 imparts rotation to the corresponding crown gear 1121 as each bolt moves within its corresponding spiral groove.

Referring to Figures 20-23, the first and second shuttles 1138 ', 1139' may be keyed with the crown gears 1121 for axial movement, and gear rotation, otherwise the shuttles 1138 ', 1139' must be sections. non-circular cross-sections, for example, a generally spiral-shaped hexagonal pattern 1138a is formed near the second (outer) ends thereof. The sleeves 1121a of the crown gears 1121 may also have a corresponding generally non-circular pattern (eg, spiral-shaped hexagonal) formed therein (not shown). Similar to the bolt-in-slot configuration described above for Figure 16, the sliding of the first and second shuttles 1138 ', 1139' with respect to said configured crown gears 1121 can cause the crown gears 1121 to rotate with respect to the first and second shuttles 1138 ', 1139'.

Referring to Figure 19, each blade 1118 preferably includes a blade gear 1119 (eg, a bevel or spur gear) fixed thereto and positioned within the polygonal housing 1120. Each of the crown gears 1121 engages with all the blade gears 1119 within the corresponding polygon housing 1120, such that the rotation of the crown gear 1121 causes the rotation of all the blade gears 1119. Since blade gears 1119 are attached to blades 1118, rotation of blade gears 1119 causes rotation of blades 1118.

Preferably, the shafts on which the blades 1118 are mounted engage a hub 1122, which is positioned with each of the polygonal housings 1120 and has a center located generally along the first axis 1132. Preferably, a support shaft 1146 It is positioned between the hubs 1122 along the first axis 1132 to add structural rigidity to the previously described components positioned along the first axis 1132 of the toy vehicle 1110. Although it is preferred that the support shaft 1146 be made of metal, it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the support shaft 1146 be made of a different material, provided that it can perform to increase the structural rigidity of the vehicle. toy 1110.

With reference to Figures 16-18, 22 and 23, the toy vehicle 1110 preferably includes an elongated arm 1128 again forming a "tail" of the toy vehicle 1110 and having opposite first and second ends and a central longitudinal plane. (preferably a plane of symmetry) extending generally perpendicular to the first axis 1132. Arm 1128 preferably flexes slightly in order to conform to the shape of central housing 1134 and generally wraps around central housing 1134 in a contracted position (similar to FIG. 1). Arm 1128 preferably extends from toy vehicle 1110 at least when blades 1118 are positioned between the first and second configurations in the paddle wheel configuration, as described above.

Arm 1128 is movably coupled by preferably being rotatably attached to central housing 1134 at the first end, with the second end of arm 1128 being free and optionally having a freely rotatable wheel 1130 fixed to or near the second end (see Figures 22 and 23). Arm 1128 preferably rotates from a compact storage position where the entire arm 1128 can be stored near central housing 1134 within the confines of blades 1118 when toy vehicle 1110 is in the first generally spherical configuration. Arm 1128 rotates to an extended position, at least when blades 1118 rotate to approximately the intermediate position 26 of the 90-degree paddle wheel configuration and remain extended at all positions of blades 1118 between the 90-degree position 26 and a second outward position 24. In the extended position, the arm 1128 is trailed behind the toy vehicle 1110 to counteract the torque created during the operation of the toy vehicle 1110, particularly when the toy vehicle 1110 is operated in water with the blades 1118 at the bottom. paddle wheel configuration. The arm 1128 is necessarily in such conditions since, without them, the central housing 1134 of the toy vehicle 1110 may tend to rotate between the wheels 1114, 1116 at least when the wheels 1114, 1116 are simultaneously driven in the same direction.

Arm 1128 is rotated by operation of transform motor 1144. Referring to FIG. 18, a fourth combination gear 1180 is engaged with and rotated by the small straight portion of third combination gear 1176 of third reduction gear train 1170 , which is also responsible for turning the worm gear 1178, as described above. The rotation of the fourth combination gear 1118 causes the rotation of a Geneva arrangement including the Geneva drive gear 1182, which engages a small straight drive portion of the fourth combination gear 1180.

Referring specifically to FIG. 18, the Geneva drive gear 1182 has a boss 1182a and a post 1182b extending outwardly from one side thereof. The protrusion 1182a is preferably generally circular with a cut section 1182c therein, of

ES 1 064 006 U so that it appears as if one outer circumferential section has been removed from the other circular bulge 1182a. Preferably, post 1182b is positioned proximate an outer edge of Geneva drive gear 1182 and is centered proximate cutting section 1182c of boss 1182a.

Boss 1182a and post 1182b of the Geneva 1182 drive gear interact with a Geneva 1182 drive gear in order to intermittently rotate the Geneva 1184 drive gear. Intermittent rotation of the Geneva 1184 drive gear is accomplished by the post 1182b of the Geneva 1182 drive gear that engages within a slot 1184b in a protrusion 1184a extending outward from one side of the Geneva 1184 drive gear which generally makes versus Geneva 1182 drive gear. When post 1182b is within slot 1184b of Geneva drive gear 1184, rotation of Geneva drive gear 1182 causes post 1182b to bear against one side of slot 1184b to impart rotation to Geneva drive gear 1182. In this way, the Geneva 1184 drive gear also rotates when the 1182b post is placed into the 1184b slot, the 1184 Geneva drive gear stops rotating at any other time by the interaction of the 1182a protrusion of the Geneva 1182 drive gear with protrusion 1184a of the Geneva 1184 drive gear. A straight portion of the Geneva drive gear 1184 then engages and rotates a spur gear 1186, which is attached to the end of the arm 1128 that connects to the center housing 1134. In this way, although the Geneva drive gear 1182 is constantly rotated during the operation of the transform motor 1144, the Geneva drive gear 1484 ensures that the arm 1128 will only rotate in or out of the extended position at a certain time, which is Determined by the settings of the Geneva 1182 drive gear and the Geneva 1184 drive gear. Preferably, the Geneva drive gear 1182 and the Geneva drive gear 1184 are configured to allow rotation of the arm 1128 once the blades 1118 have rotated out of the first generally spherical configuration sufficiently to allow the arm 1128 to pass through blades 1118 without coming into contact with blades 1118.

Referring to Figures 22 and 23, arm 1128 has optional fins 1129 located near the second free end of arm 1128 for use in water. Preferably, arm flap 1129 is pivotally moved relative to arm 1128 in order to allow more compact storage in the sphere-like configuration of vehicle 1110.

With reference to Figures 25 and 26, a toy vehicle of a fourth preferred embodiment is shown, generally indicated at 1210, in accordance with the present invention. The toy vehicle 1210 is generally similar to the third embodiment, except that the rigid arm 1128 of the third embodiment is replaced with an articulated arm or "tail" 1228 that is comprised of a plurality of individual segments 1128a linked in series for partial rotation. with respect to each other. Hinged tail 1128 has a first end fixed to a central housing 1234 and a second free end. Articulated tail 1228 has a stored position (fig. 25) where the articulated tail 1228 generally wraps around the central housing 1234, and an extended position (fig. 26) where the articulated tail 1228 extends rearward from the central housing 1234. The articulated tail 1228 has a free wheel optional swivel 1230 fixed at or near the second (outer) end.

When in the extended position, the hinged tail 1228 functions in the same manner as described above with respect to the third mode arm 1128 as it counteracts the torque created during operation of the toy vehicle 1210. The articulated tail 1228 can be moved between the extended or stored positions using any appropriate mechanism, such as, but not limited to, a cable and winch or reel assembly wherein a cable (not shown) is fed through the plurality of segments 1228a and is attached at one end to segment 1228a to the second (outer) end of hinged tail 1228. Another end of the cable is attached to a winch (not shown) such that the rotation of the winch lets out or lifts the cable, depending on the direction of rotation of the winch. Lifting the cable causes the hinged tail 1228 to move in the stored position, and releasing the cable results in the hinged tail 1228 moving in the extended position. Alternatively, a gear train (not shown) along hinged tail 1228 may be used to move hinged tail 1228 between the stored and extended positions. Finally, the tail 1228 is freely rotatable to unfold and contract in response to centrifugal and / or contact forces on the tail 1228 similar to the tail 70 of the first embodiment.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes to the above-described embodiment can be made without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiment described, but is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.