Lionel L.c.c.

Other

Richard F Webster

Steven R Greening

Morgan Wireman

Bradley Salminen

Katherine Bis

A model vehicle, such as a model electric train, includes a model automatic door. The operation of the door is automated using a motor, drive train, and control circuit. A drive mechanism moves the door between open and closed positions. In the open position, the door is displaced laterally along and displaced outwardly of the body of the train car to expose a door opening. In the closed position, the door is substantially flush with the body of the car and covers the door opening. The control circuit permits automatic operation of the door and provides various features for enhancing realism of the operating model.

Model vehicle with automated door mechanism

A model vehicle, such as a model electric train, includes a model pantograph. The operation of the pantograph is automated using a motor, drive train, and control circuit. An upper articulating portion of the pantograph is mounting to the model vehicle using a breakaway assembly. The upper articulating portion may also be coupled to a drive motor via an elastic coupling permitting elastic movement of the upper portion independently of the drive motor.

Model vehicle with automated pantograph

A model toy train track segment in accordance with the present invention comprises an elongate roadbed having a first and a second end and a first and a second side. The said first and second ends of the track segment are configured for attachment to adjacent track segments. A track segment in accordance with the present invention further includes a side member configured to be detachably coupled to at least one of the first and second sides of the roadbed. A track segment in accordance with the present invention still further includes a first and a second elongate rail segment connected to the roadbed. Each of the first and second rail segments having a first end proximate to the first roadbed end and a second end proximate to the second roadbed end.

Model toy train track

A model vehicle, such as a model electric train, includes a force-isolating drive mechanism. The drive mechanism provides a mechanical linkage and speed reduction between an output shaft of a motor for a model locomotive and its drive wheels, via a gear train. The gear train includes a floating mechanism that permits the model locomotive drive wheels vertical freedom of movement, while still remaining mechanically linked to the gear train. The floating mechanism isolates the model locomotive from forces transmitted from the track bed through the drive wheels, thereby providing a more stable and vibration-free model performance.

Model vehicle with force-isolating drive mechanism

A model vehicle, such as a model electric train, includes a motorized tilt mechanism for tilting train cars when traversing curved sections of track. The operation of the tilt mechanism is automated using a motor, drive train, and control circuit. A motorized tilt mechanism moves a train car body between left, right, and upright positions, depending on the direction and speed of movement of the model train. The control circuit permits automatic operation of the tilt mechanism in response to position and velocity input.

Model train car with tilting mechanism

A model train car uses an improved coupling mechanism that permits close coupling of adjacent cars in a model train, while also providing a rotational operating range that permits operation of the train with tighter model track curves. The coupling mechanism operates to extend a coupling bar from the model car when the train turns to the right or left, providing clearance for further rotation of the bar. The mechanism further provides for elastic portions of the model car housing, which give way to the rotating coupling bar as the bar rotates towards its outer limits.

Model train with improved coupling mechanism

A rail system for a toy train having at least one elongate rail with a hollow cross-section having a surface defining a connection portion along at least part of the outer periphery of the rail. The hollow rails are reinforced with at least one rib molded into the track bed. Each end of the elongate outer rails is either preassembled with corresponding pin or adaptable for receiving a pin preassembled in an adjacent track segment. An intermediate pin is operably engaged with each end of an intermediate rail and is slidingly engagable with a corresponding intermediate pin located in an adjacent intermediate rail connected to an adjacent intermediate track segment. The connection portion of each pin extends beyond the end of the rail for operable engagement with the corresponding connection portion of an adjacent rail communication electrically with the adjacent rails on an adjacent track segment.

A croquet system for use in an arena is provided wherein a croquet wicket or stake can be attached to a floor. A sleeve is inserted into a void in the floor. The sleeve is capable of receiving a mounting rod which is coaxially attached to either the croquet stake or an upright of a croquet wicket. The croquet wicket or stake can then be inserted for play or removed such that the arena can serve other functions.

Croquet wicket and stake system for arenas

The present invention incorporates a caged roller transported along a railroad track by a railroad car adapted for the purpose. The roller is covered with a fluid retaining wear resistant layer which contacts the rail surface. Rolling motion of the roller is generated by movement of the cage along the track and wiping action is caused by retarding rolling motion by contact of the roller with the rear portion of the cage. In a further feature the motion of the roller may be additionally retarded by providing in the interior of the roller a quantity of particulate matter to increase rolling resistance and the weight of the roller.

Growing community of inventors

Carson, CA, United States of America

Richard F Webster