Toys utilizing fluid propulsion device

Abstract

A series of toys having unique motions are activated by a fluid propelled propulsion device. The propulsion device includes a housing with a cylinder located thereon. A pressurized fluid reservoir connects to the cylinder via a valve. The valve has provisions for introducing pressurized fluid into the cylinder and exhausting pressurized fluid out of the cylinder. A piston is located in the cylinder and in response to introduction of pressurized fluid into the cylinder, moves in a power stroke. This is followed by an exhaust stroke wherein the piston moves in the opposite direction. A piston output member is associated with the piston and extends out of the cylinder. The piston output member moves linearly in response to movement of the piston in its power and exhaust strokes. A connecting mechanism connects the piston output member and the valve. The connecting mechanism includes a first movable member and a second movable member and a biasing member. The first movable member is operatively associated with the valve and controls the position of the valve for charging and exhausting the cylinder. The biasing member interacts with the first member for controlling the valve. The second movable member moves the first movable member to initiate at least one of the charging or exhaust operations of the valve in response to movement of the piston. The second movable member can move the first movable member to initiate the other of the charging or exhaust functions of the valve in response to movement of the piston in the opposite direction, or an independent movement can be utilized to initiate this operation.