GB651413A - Improvements in or relating to steerable toy or model vehicles - Google Patents

Abstract

651,413. Two-part couplings combined with switches. JACKSON, J. M. Feb. 4, 1948, No. 3313. [Class 38 (i)] [Also in Group XV] A remote control device for use with a steerable toy or model vehicle which is propelled by an electric motor incorporated in the vehicle and steered by mechanism actuated by air or other fluid pressure comprises a compressible bulb or piston which is actuated to generate air pressure, an outlet leading from said bulb or piston to a connecting nozzle or socket, and an electric switch connected with electrical connectors adapted for connection to external conductors. The vehicle is steered by air pressure in a bag 117 (see Group XV) and is connected to the remote control device through a unitary flexible connection comprising a tube 133 of rubber or like material, and two electrical conductors 136, 137 of which one (136) may pass through the bore of the tube (allowing free passage of air) while the other (137) may be constituted by two or more insulated wires braided around the outer surface of the tube. Connector fittings 131 are attached at each end. These have a tubular spigot 132 in fluid connection with the tube 133 and contact-pins 134, 135 connected to the conductors 136, 137. To ensure tight fitting with the socket on the car the spigot 132 may be tapered and the fitting moulded from a resilient material such as polythene. The contact pins pass into the bores in the screws 123. The remote control device consists of a casing 140 enclosing a rubber bag 141, the open end of which is closed by a plate 142 bearing a central hole 143. A plunger 144 is slidably mounted in the casing below the bag and is operated by an internal rack 145 engaging a pinion 146 on a shaft turned by a hand wheel 147. The plate 142 is formed with a central part 148 surrounding the hole 143. The switch mechanism comprises two stirrup shaped spring contacts 149 mounted round the part 148 and connected to a source of electric power. The central portion of each spring is bent as shown at 151 and is engaged by two of the lugs 152 on the underside of a switch-member 153 having an operating handle. The pins 134, 135 on the connector fitting lie in diametrically-opposed recesses 158 on the part 148, movement of the switch member bringing one or other of the springs 149 into contact with the pins, thus starting, stopping or reversing the motor propelling the toy. If desired, both conductors may be braided in opposite direction around the outer surface of the flexible tube, or both may pass through the bore.