US20240252942A1

US20240252942A1 - Flat toy with motion

Info

Publication number: US20240252942A1
Application number: US18/421,206
Authority: US
Inventors: Andrew PICK
Original assignee: Andrewleon Designs LLC
Current assignee: Andrewleon Designs LLC
Priority date: 2023-01-26
Filing date: 2024-01-24
Publication date: 2024-08-01

Abstract

A flat toy with motion assembly comprising a base, a handle movable with respect to the base about an axis between a first position and a second position, an active portion movable with respect to the base in response to the handle moving between the first position and the second position, and a linkage assembly coupled between the handle and the active portion. The toy assembly has an overall thickness dimension of less than 1 inch.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/441,236, filed on Jan. 26, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

Conventional toys that resembled real-life objects (e.g., cars, trucks, planes, etc.) with functional, moving parts were designed to be played with either on the floor or in the air. Toys that were affixed to a flat surface (e.g., a refrigerator magnet or wall magnet) required users to move individual segments of the object independently to create motion.

SUMMARY

The Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.
One aspect of the disclosure provides a toy assembly comprising a base, a handle movable with respect to the base about an axis between a first position and a second position, an active portion movable with respect to the base in response to the handle moving between the first position and the second position, and a linkage assembly coupled between the handle and the active portion. The toy assembly has an overall thickness dimension of less than 1 inch.
In some embodiments, the base includes a cavity that at least partially receives the linkage assembly.
In some embodiments, the toy assembly further comprises a wheel rotatably coupled to the base.
In some embodiments, the handle includes a graspable portion that is graspable by a user.
In some embodiments, the handle further includes a linking rod and a stem, wherein the stem is positioned between the graspable portion and the linking rod; wherein the stem extends along the axis.
In some embodiments, the linkage assembly includes a first link and a second link.
In some embodiments, a first end of the first link is connected to the handle to form a first pivot, wherein a second end of the first link is connected to a first end of the second link to form a second pivot, and wherein a second end of the second link is connected to the active portion.
In some embodiments, the toy assembly further comprises a second active portion movable with respect to the base in response to the handle moving between the first position and the second position.
In some embodiments, the first link further includes an intermediate portion connected to the second active portion; and wherein the second active portion includes a guide rail, and the active portion is configured to slide along the guide rail.
In some embodiments, the second active portion is pivotably coupled to the base; and wherein the second active portion is movable with respect to the base about a second axis, wherein the second axis is parallel to the axis.
In some embodiments, the toy assembly further comprises a third active portion pivotably coupled to the second active portion.
In some embodiments, the toy assembly further comprises an attachment means coupled to the base; wherein the base has a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, and wherein the handle extends from the first surface and the attachment means is coupled to the second surface; and wherein the attachment means is a magnet, a suction cup, or a plurality of hooks.
In some embodiments, the base has a thickness dimension of less than 0.5 inches.
In some embodiments, the linkage assembly includes a first link, a second link, and a third link, wherein the second link is positioned between the first link and the active member, and wherein the third link is positioned between the first link and the active member.
In some embodiments, the handle is pivotably coupled to the second link; wherein the first link extends through a slot formed in the handle; and wherein the third link extends through a slot formed in the second link.
In some embodiments, the linkage assembly includes a first link, a second link, a third link, and a fourth link, wherein the third link is positioned between the second link and the active portion, and wherein the fourth link is positioned between the base and the active portion, and wherein the second link is pivotably coupled to the third link, and wherein the third link is pivotably coupled to the base.
In some embodiments, the linkage assembly includes a first link, a second link, and a third link, wherein the second link is positioned between the base and the active member, and wherein the third link is positioned between the first link and the active portion.
In some embodiments, the linkage assembly includes a scissor lift mechanism.
In some embodiments, the handle is movable with respect to the base about the axis by 360 degrees.
In some embodiments, continuous movement of the handle creates continuous movement of the active portion.
Other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures and examples are provided by way of illustration and not by way of limitation. The foregoing aspects and other features of the disclosure are explained in the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying example figures (also “FIG.”) relating to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a dump truck toy assembly, shown in a start position.

FIG. 2 is a side profile view of the dump truck toy assembly of FIG. 1 , shown in the start position.

FIG. 3 is an exploded front view of the dump truck toy assembly of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 4A is a front perspective view of a handle of the dump truck toy assembly of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 4B is rear perspective view of the handle of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the dump truck toy assembly of FIG. 1 , showing a handle insert location.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the dump truck toy assembly of FIG. 1 , viewed from the back.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the dump truck toy assembly of FIG. 1 , viewed from the front.

FIG. 8 is a front view of the dump truck toy assembly of FIG. 1 , shown in an intermediate position.

FIG. 9 is a front view of the dump truck toy assembly of FIG. 1 , shown in an end position.

FIG. 10 is a back view of the dump truck toy assembly of FIG. 1 , illustrating a magnet affixed to a base.

FIG. 11 is a front view of an excavator toy assembly, shown in a start position.

FIG. 12 is a side profile view of the excavator toy assembly of FIG. 11 , shown in the start position.

FIG. 13 is an exploded front view of the excavator toy assembly of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 14 is an exploded back view of the excavator toy assembly of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 15 is a bottom perspective view of an excavator main body illustrating slide and clip parts.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the excavator toy assembly of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the excavator toy assembly of FIG. 11 , viewed from the front.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged cross-section view of an excavator tread base assembly with connection points, viewed from the front.

FIG. 19 is a front view of the excavator toy assembly of FIG. 11 , shown in an intermediate position.

FIG. 20 is a front view of the excavator toy assembly of FIG. 11 , shown in an end position.

FIG. 21 is a back view of the excavator toy assembly of FIG. 20 , illustrating a magnet affixed to a base.

FIG. 22 is a front view of a front loader toy assembly, shown in a start position.

FIG. 23 is a side profile view of the front loader toy assembly of FIG. 22 , shown in the start position.

FIG. 24 is an exploded front view of the front loader toy assembly of FIG. 22 .

FIG. 25 is a cross-section view of the front loader toy assembly of FIG. 22 , viewed from the front.

FIG. 26 a front perspective view of the front loader toy assembly of FIG. 22 .

FIG. 27 is back exploded view of the front loader toy assembly of FIG. 22 .

FIG. 28 is a front view of the front loader toy assembly of FIG. 22 , shown in an intermediate position.

FIG. 29 is a front view of the front loader toy assembly of FIG. 22 , shown in an end position.

FIG. 30 is a back view of the front loader toy assembly of FIG. 29 , illustrating magnets affixed to a base.

FIG. 31 is a front view of a skid steer toy assembly, shown in a start position.

FIG. 32 is a side profile view of the skid steer toy assembly of FIG. 31 , shown in the start position.

FIG. 33 is an exploded front view of the skid steer toy assembly of FIG. 31 .

FIG. 34 is an exploded back view of the skid steer toy assembly of FIG. 31 .

FIG. 35 a front perspective view of the skid steer toy assembly of FIG. 31 .

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the skid steer toy assembly of FIG. 31 , viewed from the front.

FIG. 37 is a back view of the skid steer toy assembly of FIG. 31 .

FIG. 38 is a front view of the skid steer toy assembly of FIG. 31 , shown in an intermediate position.

FIG. 39 is a front view of the skid steer toy assembly of FIG. 31 , shown in an end position.

FIG. 40 is a back view of the skid steer toy assembly of FIG. 39 , illustrating a magnet affixed to a base.

FIG. 41 is a front view of a scissor lift toy assembly, shown in a start position.

FIG. 42 is a side profile view of the scissor lift toy assembly of FIG. 41 , shown in the start position.

FIG. 43 is an exploded front view of the scissor lift toy assembly of FIG. 41 .

FIG. 44 is an exploded top view of the scissor lift toy assembly of FIG. 41 .

FIG. 45 is an exploded back view of the scissor lift toy assembly of FIG. 41 .

FIG. 46 is a back view of the scissor lift toy assembly of FIG. 41 .

FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional front view of the scissor lift toy assembly of FIG. 41 .

FIG. 48 is another cross-sectional front view of the scissor lift toy assembly of FIG. 41 .

FIG. 49 is a front view of the scissor lift toy assembly of FIG. 41 , shown in an intermediate position.

FIG. 50 is a front view of the scissor lift toy assembly of FIG. 41 , shown in an end position.

FIG. 51 is a back view of the scissor lift toy assembly of FIG. 41 , illustrating a magnet affixed to a base.

FIG. 52 is a front view of a horse toy assembly.

FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional front view of the horse toy assembly of FIG. 52 .

FIG. 54 is an exploded front view of the horse toy assembly of FIG. 52 .

FIG. 55 is a back view of the horse toy assembly of FIG. 52 , with the main body removed.

FIG. 56 is a front view of a crank mechanism in the horse toy assembly of FIG. 52 , which allows for continuous movement of the active portion.

FIG. 57 is a back view of the crank mechanism in the horse toy assembly of FIG. 52 .

FIG. 58 is an exploded front view of the crank mechanism of FIG. 56 .

FIG. 59 is an exploded back view of the crank mechanism of FIG. 57 .

Before any embodiments are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. In case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control. Preferred methods and materials are described below, although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in practice or testing of the present disclosure. All publications, patent applications, patents and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. The materials, methods, and examples disclosed herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.
For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to preferred embodiments and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended, such alteration and further modifications of the disclosure as illustrated herein, being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates.
Articles “a” and “an” are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, “an element” means at least one element and can include more than one element.
“About” and “approximately” is used to provide flexibility to a numerical range endpoint by providing that a given value may be “slightly above” or “slightly below” the endpoint without affecting the desired result.
The use herein of the terms “including,” “comprising,” or “having,” and variations thereof, is meant to encompass the elements listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional elements. As used herein, “and/or” refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items, as well as the lack of combinations when interpreted in the alternative (“or”).
Moreover, the present disclosure also contemplates that in some embodiments, any feature or combination of features set forth herein can be excluded or omitted. To illustrate, if the specification states that an apparatus comprises components A, B, and C, it is specifically intended that any of A, B or C, or a combination thereof, can be omitted and disclaimed singularly or in any combination.
Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. For example, if a concentration range is stated as 1% to 50%, it is intended that values such as 2% to 40%, 10% to 30%, or 1% to 3%, etc., are expressly enumerated in this specification. These are only examples of what is specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values between and including the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this disclosure.
The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as “connected,” although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The term coupled is to be understood to mean physically, magnetically, chemically, electrically, or otherwise coupled, connected or linked and does not exclude the presence of intermediate elements between the coupled elements absent specific contrary language.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.
With reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , the full toy assembly simulates a real-life object (dump truck) and how it moves. The object is designed to be flat and have both two-dimensional and three-dimensional characteristics. In the illustrated embodiment, the device is approximately 0.5 inches thick or less (not including the handle or attachment medium). In some embodiments, the toy assembly has an overall thickness dimension of less than approximately 1 inch. In some embodiments, the toy assembly has an overall thickness dimension of less than approximately 1.5 inches. In some embodiments, the toy assembly has an overall thickness dimension of less than approximately 2 inches. In some embodiments, the toy assembly has an overall thickness dimension of less than approximately 0.5 inches (not including the handle or attachment medium). As such, the toy assembly is “flat” and exhibits two-dimensional characteristics. When the handle is rotated between the start and end positions, the device simulates the same movement and functionality the object has when it moves in real-life.
In the illustrated embodiments, no metal screws are used in the device assembly (only plastic parts). In some embodiments, some or all the components of the toy assembly are additively manufactured with, for example, a 3D printer.
With reference to FIG. 3 , the dump truck main body (100) and bucket (101) are connected by a c-clip (101 a) which attaches to a shaft (100 c). The movable wheels (103, 104, 105) are attached to the main body (100) via snap clips (100 b). The handle (106) and main body (100) are connected by clipping the stem portion of the handle (106 b) into the main body clip cavity (100 a). The movable bucket flap (102) and the bucket (101) are connected by a c-clip (102 a) which attaches to a shaft (101 b). The handle (106) and bucket lever (107) are connected by a pressed snap fit peg with flange (FIG. 4B; 106 d) to the bucket lever hole clip (107 b). The bucket lever (107) and the bucket (101) are connected by a c-clip (107 c) which attaches to a shaft (FIG. 7 ; 101 c). The bucket lever (107) and the material lever (108) are connected by a peg (107 a) which slides into the material lever hole (108 a). The material lever (108) and the dump material (109) are connected by sliding a peg (109 a) into the material lever hole (108 b).
With reference to FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the dump truck handle includes several features including a handle grasp (106 a), a stem (106 b), a linking rod (106 c), a peg with flange (106 d) and a spacer (106 e).
With reference to FIG. 5 , the dump truck handle stem (106 b) and the main body clip cavity (100 a) are connected.
With reference to FIG. 6 , the dump truck bucket lever hole (107 b) and the peg with flange (106 d) are connected by a pressed snap fit to form a pivoting connection. In other words, a first end of the link (107) is connected to the handle (106) to form a first pivot.
With reference to FIG. 7 , the front cross-section view of the dump truck assembly shows the internal connections for the moving parts when the handle is rotated. When the handle (106) is rotated counterclockwise (up), it pushes up the bucket lever (107) and rotates the bucket c-clip (101 a) around a shaft (100 c). While it (107) is lifted, it rotates on the bucket shaft (101 c). This rotation pushes the material lever (108) [at the connection point 108 a and 107 a] and dump material (109) [at the connection point 109 a and 108 b] towards the bucket flap (102). This results in the bucket flap (102) opening, pivoting on a shaft (101 b) and the dump material being exposed out of the bucket. Moving the handle (106) results in a compound articulation of two or more movement features (lifting bucket and material movement). In some embodiments, the handle (106) moves between a first position and a second position. In some embodiments, the first position and the second position of the handle (106) are part of a plurality of positions the handle (106) can be located in. In some embodiments, the handle (106) rotates 360 degrees about a rotational axis between a plurality of positions.
With reference to FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 , the dump truck assembly is shown at mid-point position (FIG. 8 ) and end position (FIG. 9 ) of the handle rotation.
With reference to FIG. 10 , the back view of dump truck assembly is shown with an attachment means 120 (e.g., a magnet, a suction cup, a hook and/or loop fastener, etc.) affixed to the non-moving parts; assembly is shown in the start position.
One aspect of the disclosure provides a toy assembly comprising a base (e.g., main body 100), a handle (e.g., handle 106) movable with respect to the base about an axis (e.g., axis 114, FIGS. 4A and 5 ) between a first position (e.g., FIG. 1 ) and a second position (e.g., FIG. 9 ), an active portion (e.g., bucket 101, dump material 109, etc.) movable with respect to the base in response to the handle moving between the first position and the second position, and a linkage assembly (e.g., bucket lever 107, material lever 108, etc.) coupled between the handle and the active portion. The toy assembly has an overall thickness dimension (e.g., dimension 115, FIG. 2 ) of less than approximately 1 inch.
In some embodiments, the base includes a cavity (e.g., main body clip cavity 100 a) that at least partially receives the linkage assembly.
In some embodiments, the toy assembly further comprises a wheel (e.g., wheel 103, 104, 105, etc.) rotatably coupled to the base.
In some embodiments, the handle includes a graspable portion (e.g., handle grasp 106 a) that is graspable by a user.
In some embodiments, the handle further includes a linking rod (e.g., linking rod 106 c), and a stem (e.g., a stem 106 b), wherein the stem is positioned between the graspable portion and the linking rod; wherein the stem extends along the axis.
In some embodiments, the linkage assembly includes a first link (e.g., bucket lever 107) and a second link (e.g., material lever 108).
In some embodiments, a first end of the first link is connected to the handle to form a first pivot (e.g., bucket lever hole 107 b and peg with flange 106 d, FIG. 6 ), wherein a second end of the first link is connected to a first end of the second link to form a second pivot (e.g., peg 107 a and material lever hole 108 a), and wherein a second end of the second link is connected to the active portion.
In some embodiments, the toy assembly further comprises a second active portion (e.g., bucket 101) movable with respect to the base in response to the handle moving between the first position and the second position.
In some embodiments, the first link further includes an intermediate portion (e.g., c-clip 107 c) connected to the second active portion (e.g., shaft 101 c, FIG. 7 ); and wherein the second active portion includes a guide rail 116, and the active portion (e.g., dump material 109) is configured to slide along the guide rail.
In some embodiments, the second active portion is pivotably coupled to the base (e.g., shaft 100 c and c-clip 101 a); and wherein the second active portion is movable with respect to the base about a second axis 117 (FIG. 7 ), wherein the second axis 117 is parallel to the axis 114.
In some embodiments, the toy assembly further comprises a third active portion (e.g., movable bucket flap 102) pivotably coupled to the second active portion.
In some embodiments, the toy assembly further comprises an attachment means (e.g., magnet 120) coupled to the base; wherein the base has a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, and wherein the handle extends from the first surface and the attachment means is coupled to the second surface; and wherein the attachment means is a magnet, a suction cup, or a plurality of hooks.
In some embodiments, the base has a thickness dimension 118 (FIG. 5 ) of less than 0.5 approximately inches.
With reference to FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 , the full toy assembly simulates a real-life object (excavator) and how it moves. The object is designed to be flat and have both two-dimensional and three-dimensional characteristics. The device is approximately 0.5 inches thick or less (not including the handle or attachment medium). When the handle is rotated between the start and end positions, the device simulates the same movement and functionality the object has when it moves in real-life. No metal screws are used in the device assembly (only plastic parts).
With reference to FIG. 13 , FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 , the excavator main body (200) and main arm with handle (201) are connected by inserting the handle stem (201 b) into the lever cavity (200 a) with the main arm clip (206) affixed to the handle stem (201 b). The main arm with handle (201) and the extension arm (203) are connected by inserting the extension arm peg (203 b) into the main arm with handle hole clip (201 c). The extension arm (203) and shovel (205) are connected by inserting the extension arm peg (203 c) into the shovel hole clip (205 a). The extension arm lever (202) is inserted through the main arm cavity (201 d) and connected to the main body (200) by clipping the extension arm lever hole clip (202 b) onto the main body snap clip (200 b). The extension arm lever (202) and the extension arm (203) are connected by inserting the extension arm lever peg (202 c) into the extension arm hole clip (203 a). The shovel lever (204) is inserted through the extension arm cavity (203 d) and is connected to the extension arm lever (202) by sliding the shovel lever hole (204 a) onto the extension arm lever peg (202 a). The shovel lever (204) is connected to the shovel (205) by inserting the shovel lever peg (204 b) into the shovel hole clip (205 b). The tread base (207) and the main body (200) are connected by placing the slide bar (207 a) into a slide bar cavity (200 d) and then attaching a c-clip (207 b) to a shaft (200 c). The gear wheels (208) and the tread base (207) are connected by snap clips (207 c). The mini wheels (209) and the tread base (207) are connected by sliding the mini wheel holes into the pegs (207 e). The tread base cover (210) and the tread base (207) are connected by pressing the tread base (210) cover holes onto the snap clips (207 c and 207 d) with the gear wheels (208) and mini wheels (209) placed between the tread base (207) and the cover (210). The tread (211) and the gear wheels (208) are connected by aligning and placing the holes located on the tread (211) over the teeth on the gear wheels (208). This tread freely rotates around the mini wheels (209) and gear wheels (208).
In FIG. 16 , the front view of the excavator assembly shows the connections for the moving parts that result when the handle is rotated. When the handle (201 a) with the main arm clip (206) is rotated clockwise (up), it lifts the main arm with handle (201). This pulls up on the extension arm (203) [at connection point 201 b and 203 b] and the shovel (205) [at connection point 203 c and 205 a] simultaneously. While the main arm with handle (201) is being lifted, the extension arm lever (202) pulls on the extension arm (203) [at connection point 203 a and 202 c]. This movement rotates the extension arm (203) [at connection point 201 b and 203 b]. While the extension arm lever (202) rotates the extension arm (203), the shovel lever (204), which is attached to the extension arm lever (202) [at connection point 202 a and 204 a], pulls on the shovel (205) [at connection point 204 b and 205 b]. This movement rotates the shovel (205) [at connection point 203 c and 205 a]. All these parts moving simultaneously after rotating the handle (201 a) results in a compound articulated movement.
In FIG. 17 , the front cross-section view of the excavator assembly shows how the extension arm lever (202) and shovel lever (204) slide through the main arm cavity (201 d) and extension arm cavity (203 d). In addition, it shows the tread base (207) and main body (200) connection points (207 a connects to 200 d; 207 b connects to 200 c).
In FIG. 18 , the front-cross section close-up view of connection points for the excavator tread base (207), mini wheels (209) and gear wheels (208).
With reference to FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 , the excavator assembly is shown at mid-point position (FIG. 19 ) and end position (FIG. 20 ) of the handle rotation.
With reference to FIG. 21 , the back view of excavator assembly is shown with an attachment means affixed to the non-moving parts; assembly is shown in the end position.
In some embodiments, the linkage assembly includes a first link (e.g., extension arm lever 202), a second link (e.g., the extension arm 203), and a third link (e.g., shovel lever 204), wherein the second link is positioned between the first link and the active member (e.g., shovel 205), and wherein the third link is positioned between the first link and the active member.
In some embodiments, the handle (e.g., handle 201) is pivotably coupled to the second link (e.g., the extension arm 203); wherein the first link (e.g., extension arm lever 202) extends through a slot (e.g., main arm cavity 201 d) formed in the handle; and wherein the third link (e.g., shovel lever 204) extends through a slot (e.g., extension arm cavity 203 d) formed in the second link (e.g., the extension arm 203).
With reference to FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 , the full toy assembly simulates a real-life object (front loader) and how it moves. The object is designed to be flat and have both two-dimensional and three-dimensional characteristics. The device is 0.5 inches thick or less (not including the handle or attachment medium). When the handle is rotated between the start and end positions, the device simulates the same movement and functionality the object has when it moves in real-life. No metal screws are used in the device assembly (only plastic parts).
In FIG. 24 , the front loader main body (300) and the boom arm (301) are connected by inserting a boom arm peg (301 a) into the main body hole clip (300 b). The movable wheels (303 and 304) are attached to the main body (300) via snap clips (300 c). The handle (305) and main body (300) are connected by clipping the stem portion of the handle (305 b) into the main body clip cavity (300 a). The bucket (302) and the boom arm (301) are connected by inserting a boom arm peg (301 b) into the bucket hole clip (302 a). The handle (305) and the handle extension lever (306) are connected by a handle extension lever peg (306 a) which slides into the handle hole (305 c). The handle extension lever (306) and the boom arm lever (307) are connected by inserting the boom arm lever peg (307 a; also see FIG. 27 ) which slides into the extension arm lever hole (306 b). The boom arm lever (307) and the boom arm (301) are connected by a c-clip (307 b) which attaches to a boom arm shaft (FIG. 25 ; 301 c). The tilt lever (308) and the main body (300) are connected by sliding the main body peg (FIG. 25 ; 300 d) into the tilt lever hole (308 b). The tilt lever (308) and the bucket (302) are connected by inserting the tilt lever peg (308 a) into the bucket lever hole clip (302 b).
With reference to FIG. 25 , the front cross-section view of the front loader assembly shows the internal connections for the moving parts when the handle is rotated. When the handle (305) is rotated clockwise, it pushes the handle extension lever (306) down and toward the bucket (302) [at connection point 305 c and 306 a]. This movement pushes the boom arm lever (307) [at connection point 307 a and 306 b] toward the bucket (302). The boom arm lever (307) pushes the boom arm (301) in an upward motion [at connection point 301 c and 307 b]. While the boom arm (301) is lifting, the tilt lever (308) rotates around the main body peg (300 d) [at connection point 300 d and 308 b]. This results in the tilt lever (308) rotating the bucket (302) counterclockwise [at connection point FIGS. 26 ; 301 b and 302 a) by pulling the bucket down [at connection point FIGS. 26 ; 302 b and 308 a], when the boom arm (301) is raised. Moving the handle (305) results in a compound articulation of two or more movement features.
With reference to FIG. 26 , this shows the external connections of the front loader assembly rendered.
With reference to FIG. 27 , this shows exploded back view of the front loader, with the boom arm lever peg (307 a) visible.
With reference to FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 , the front loader assembly is shown at mid-point position (FIG. 28 ) and end position (FIG. 29 ) of the handle rotation.
With reference to FIG. 30 , the back view of front loader assembly is shown with an attachment means affixed to the non-moving parts; assembly is shown in the end position.
In some embodiments, the linkage assembly includes a first link (e.g., handle extension lever 306), a second link (e.g., boom arm lever 307), a third link (e.g., boom arm 301), and a fourth link (e.g., tilt lever 308), wherein the third link (e.g., boom arm 301) is positioned between the second link (e.g., boom arm lever 307) and the active portion (e.g., bucket 302), and wherein the fourth link (e.g., tilt lever 308) is positioned between the base (e.g., main body 300) and the active portion (e.g., bucket 302), and wherein the second link (e.g., boom arm lever 307) is pivotably coupled to the third link (e.g., boom arm 301), and wherein the third link (e.g., boom arm 301) is pivotably coupled to the base (e.g., main body 300).
With reference to FIG. 31 and FIG. 32 , the full toy assembly simulates a real-life object (skid steer) and how it moves. The object is designed to be flat and have both two-dimensional and three-dimensional characteristics. The device is 0.5 inches thick or less (not including the handle or attachment medium). When the handle is rotated between the start and end positions, the device simulates the same movement and functionality the object has when it moves in real-life. No metal screws are used in the device assembly (only plastic parts).
With reference to FIG. 33 , the skid steer main body (400) and the main body cover (401) are connected by gluing the two pieces together. The main body (400) and the main arm (402) are connected by inserting a main arm peg (402 a) into the main body hole clip (400 a). The movable wheels (404 and 405) are attached to the main body (400) via snap clips (400 c). The main arm (402) and the bucket (403) are connected by inserting a main arm peg (402 c) into the bucket hole clip (403 b). The handle (406) and main body (400) are connected by clipping the stem portion of the handle (406 b) into the main body clip cavity (400 b). The handle (406) and the main arm lever (407) are connected by inserting a main arm lever peg (FIG. 34 ; 407 c) into the handle hole (406 c). The main arm (402) and main arm lever (407) are connected by inserting the main arm lever peg (407 a) into the main arm hole clip (402 b). The main arm lever (407) and the tilt lever (408) are connected by inserting the main arm lever peg with flange (FIG. 34 ; 407 b) into the tilt lever hole clip (408 a). The tilt lever (408) and bucket (403) are connected by inserting the tilt lever peg (408 b) into the bucket hole clip (403 a).
With reference to FIG. 34 , this shows exploded back view of the skid steer, with the main arm lever pegs (407 a, 407 c) and lever peg with flange (407 b) visible.
With reference to FIG. 35 , this shows the skid steer assembly external connections for the moving parts when the handle is rotated. When the handle (406) is rotated clockwise, it pushes the main arm lever (407) toward the bucket (403) in an upward motion [at connection point FIGS. 36 ; 406 c and 407 c]. The main arm lever (407) pushes the main arm (402) in an upward motion [at connection point 402 b and 407 a]. Simultaneously, the main lever (407) pushes the tilt lever (408) [at connection point FIGS. 37 ; 407 b and 408 a] toward the bucket (403). This results in the tilt lever (408) pushing the bucket (403) [at connection point 403 a and 408 b), which rotates the bucket (403) counterclockwise [at connection point 402 c and 403 b]. Moving the handle (406) results in a compound articulation of two or more movement features.
With reference to FIG. 36 , the front-cross section view of skid steer showing internal lever locations when the assembly is in the start position.
With reference to FIG. 37 , the back view of skid steer assembly shows how main body (400) and main body cover (401) are joined and how the main arm lever (407) and tilt lever (408) are connected.
With reference to FIG. 38 and FIG. 39 , the skid steer assembly is shown at mid-point position (FIG. 38 ) and end position (FIG. 39 ) of the handle rotation.
With reference to FIG. 40 , the back view of skid steer assembly is shown with an attachment means affixed to the non-moving parts; assembly is shown in the end position.
In some embodiments, the linkage assembly includes a first link (e.g., main arm lever 407), a second link (e.g., main arm 402), and a third link (e.g., tilt lever 408), wherein the second link (e.g., main arm 402) is positioned between the base (e.g., main body 400) and the active member (e.g., bucket 403), and wherein the third link (e.g., tilt lever 408) is positioned between the first link (e.g., main arm lever 407) and the active portion (e.g., bucket 403).
With reference to FIGS. 41-51 , a scissor lift toy assembly is illustrated.
In some embodiments, the linkage assembly includes a scissor lift mechanism.
With reference to FIGS. 52-59 , parts contained within a horse toy assembly are shown.
With reference to FIG. 58 and FIG. 59 , the handle (500) slides into the crank handle clip (501) [at connection point 500 a and 501 a].
The back leg lever 1 (502) and front leg lever 1 (503) [at connection points 502 a and 503 a] slide onto the crank handle clip (501) [at connection point 501 b].
The crank lever offset (504) slides into the crank handle clip (501) [at connection points 504 a and 501 b].
The back leg lever 2 (505) and front leg lever 2 (506) [at connection points 505 a and 506 a) slide onto the crank lever offset (504) [at connection point 504 b].
The crank handle clip (501) [at connection point 501 b] and crank lever offset (504) [at connection point 504 a] have mating hex shapes to maintain the offset position between the back and front leg levers 1 (502 and 503) and the back and front leg levers 2 (505 and 506).
In some embodiments, the handle (e.g., handle 500) is movable with respect to the base about the axis by 360 degrees.
In some embodiments, continuous movement of the handle (e.g., 500) creates continuous movement of the active portion (e.g., the horse legs and head).
As such, the toy assembly maintains a thin-thickness dimension while generating complex motion in response to the actuation of a handle. The complex motion generated by the toy assembly may mimic or replicate the motion of a vehicle, an animal, a person, a fictional character, a natural object, a building, or any other moving object.
One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present disclosure is well adapted to carry out the objects and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent herein. The present disclosure described herein are exemplary embodiments and are not intended as limitations on the scope of the present disclosure. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit of the present disclosure as defined by the scope of the claims.
Various features and advantages are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A toy assembly comprising:

a base;

a handle movable with respect to the base about an axis between a first position and a second position;

an active portion movable with respect to the base in response to the handle moving between the first position and the second position; and

a linkage assembly coupled between the handle and the active portion;

wherein the toy assembly has an overall thickness dimension of less than 1 inch.

2. The toy assembly of claim 1, wherein the base includes a cavity that at least partially receives the linkage assembly.

3. The toy assembly of claim 1, further comprising a wheel rotatably coupled to the base.

4. The toy assembly of claim 1, wherein the handle includes a graspable portion that is graspable by a user.

5. The toy assembly of claim 4, wherein the handle further includes a linking rod and a stem, wherein the stem is positioned between the graspable portion and the linking rod; wherein the stem extends along the axis.

6. The toy assembly of claim 1, wherein the linkage assembly includes a first link and a second link.

7. The toy assembly of claim 6, wherein a first end of the first link is connected to the handle to form a first pivot, wherein a second end of the first link is connected to a first end of the second link to form a second pivot, and wherein a second end of the second link is connected to the active portion.

8. The toy assembly of claim 1, further comprising a second active portion movable with respect to the base in response to the handle moving between the first position and the second position.

9. The toy assembly of claim 8, wherein the first link further includes an intermediate portion connected to the second active portion; and wherein the second active portion includes a guide rail, and the active portion is configured to slide along the guide rail.

10. The toy assembly of claim 8, wherein the second active portion is pivotably coupled to the base; and wherein the second active portion is movable with respect to the base about a second axis, wherein the second axis is parallel to the axis.

11. The toy assembly of claim 8, further comprising a third active portion pivotably coupled to the second active portion.

12. The toy assembly of claim 1, further comprising an attachment means coupled to the base; wherein the base has a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, and wherein the handle extends from the first surface and the attachment means is coupled to the second surface; and wherein the attachment means is a magnet, a suction cup, or a plurality of hooks.

13. The toy assembly of claim 1, wherein the base has a thickness dimension of less than 0.5 inches.

14. The toy assembly of claim 1, wherein the linkage assembly includes a first link, a second link, and a third link, wherein the second link is positioned between the first link and the active member, and wherein the third link is positioned between the first link and the active member.

15. The toy assembly of claim 14, wherein the handle is pivotably coupled to the second link; wherein the first link extends through a slot formed in the handle; and wherein the third link extends through a slot formed in the second link.

16. The toy assembly of claim 1, wherein the linkage assembly includes a first link, a second link, a third link, and a fourth link, wherein the third link is positioned between the second link and the active portion, and wherein the fourth link is positioned between the base and the active portion, and wherein the second link is pivotably coupled to the third link, and wherein the third link is pivotably coupled to the base.

17. The toy assembly of claim 1, wherein the linkage assembly includes a first link, a second link, and a third link, wherein the second link is positioned between the base and the active member, and wherein the third link is positioned between the first link and the active portion.

18. The toy assembly of claim 1, wherein the linkage assembly includes a scissor lift mechanism.

19. The toy assembly of claim 1, wherein the handle is movable with respect to the base about the axis by 360 degrees.

20. The toy assembly of claim 1, wherein continuous movement of the handle creates continuous movement of the active portion.