EP0960638A2 - Disassemblable toy building block made of a material containing natural fibers - Google Patents

Abstract

The building blocks (1) are made from a material containing natural fibers and having several small individual fibers preferably without any fixed preferred orientation. The block which has connectors and sockets is preferably compressible or deformable at least in the region of same so that the connectors and sockets mutually engage with better force-locking action.

Description

The present invention relates to a game or model block according to the Preamble of claim 1 or 10 for use when playing or in Modelling.

Game and model blocks are particularly under the brand names "Lego" and "Duplo" has been available for a long time. Point for connection to other building blocks these known components on their surface connecting elements or protruding structures on which to connect in appropriate, preferably complementary trained, engaging sections. To be sufficient mechanical stability of the blocks as well as those made from them To ensure constructions, but also to keep the manufacturing costs low hold, the known building blocks are usually made of plastic materials and manufactured by injection molding.

So that the known building blocks are particularly harmless for very small children care must be taken to ensure that all edges of the building blocks are rounded are what makes high demands on the manufacturing accuracy and thus the Manufacturing cost increased. Nevertheless, especially in young children Injuries caused by building blocks cannot be excluded. If children stepping barefoot on such building blocks, for example, the building blocks are called felt very sharp and can penetrate deep into the foot tissue. In addition especially with small children there is a risk of an Ankle area when stepping on plastic blocks.

With increasing environmental awareness in today's world, the use of plastic materials for the production of game or model blocks as felt unsuitable. As an alternative, therefore, have recently returned increasingly offered wooden blocks.

However, even wooden blocks are not capable of the problems mentioned above to solve. In addition, wooden blocks are comparatively complex to manufacture, especially when they can be connected to each other by plugging them together should.

DE 42 12 492 A1, which is generic for claim 1, discloses one Play block made of plastic. The module has a number of knobs that intervene positively in the recesses of another building block. The connection of two building blocks is due to a certain clamping between knobs and Maintain deepening. Tapering on the knobs creates a guide for the attached module. Due to a positive fit between knobs and recesses can also use plastics with less elasticity in order to create sufficient clamping between two components.

The disadvantage is that to accomplish a clamping between two blocks Plastic must be used as the starting material. Plastic requires one certain risk of injury and is increasingly viewed by parents as unecological Viewed material.

The US 3,488,881 generic for claim 10 discloses one dismountable game component. This is made of plastic. The disadvantage is that the Breaking apart of the building block creates sharp burrs along the fault lines, which leads to a not inconsiderable risk of injury, especially in young children to lead.

In order to create constructions from known game building blocks, building blocks different sizes needed. For example, if you want a mechanically stable wall are built, the building blocks of neighboring locations are usually alternately staggered. On the edge of such a wall or in the area of breakthroughs there are therefore gaps that are only due to smaller ones Blocks can be filled.

To solve this problem, it has long been common to put game building blocks in offer different sizes and dimensions. Because of the larger Diversity of building blocks will not only be the cost of manufacturing but also the follow-up costs for storage, transport and trade increased significantly. The object of the present invention is a generic block like this to further develop that this is even safer and more convenient to use. In particular, the manufacturing costs of a game or Model blocks kept low, should take ecological aspects into account worn and the functionality should be improved when playing.

This task is accomplished by a game or model building block according to the characteristic Part of claim 1 and 10 solved. Advantageous further developments of Invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

A game or model component according to the invention is particularly marked through the use of a raw material containing natural fibers for its Production that has a large number of comparatively small individual fibers. As will be explained below, such a module has a large number surprisingly advantageous properties.

The natural fiber-containing starting material is preferably one Porridge or a pulp made of cellulosic material, which or which either Fresh cellulose or from recycled waste paper, possibly with fresh cellulose admixture, is scheduled. For this purpose, the starting material, preferably wood chips or Waste paper, chopped into fibers and mixed with water until a suitable one The consistency and consistency of the cellulose-containing pulp is reached. For this porridge a component is then formed by means of a suitable shape, which according to its Drying has sufficient mechanical strength.

In contrast to a wooden block made up of comparatively long ones Cellulose fibers with preferential orientation exist and are therefore unyielding, a building block according to the invention comprises a large number of individual, comparatively short natural or cellulosic fibers that do not have a preferred orientation are connected, in particular in the plane of the respective side walls of the Building block, so that a building block according to the invention is flexible but nevertheless is sufficiently mechanically stable to be used as a building block.

It is advantageous that a building block according to the invention from ecologically harmless Starting materials can be manufactured, which are available very inexpensively. When processing these materials, even the strictest environmental protection requirements can be met in industrialized countries are easily taken into account, which one represents significant advantage over the use of plastics.

Another advantage is that an inventive module due to the Material quality is compostable and environmentally friendly and from this Reason is widely accepted by parents.

The cellulose-containing material used can be colored in a simple manner. This can already be done at the factory, for example in the basic colors. in the Contrary to conventional building blocks made of plastic or wood, however, one can block according to the invention by the children themselves with any Patterns are painted, for example with water colors. This novel Functionality of game components promotes the in a particularly advantageous manner Children's creativity.

The building block according to the invention is itself based on the choice of the starting material comparatively soft or flexible at sharp edges and corners. Furthermore can be a building block according to the invention due to the choice of the starting material deform under greater mechanical loads. Thus, the risk of Injury to sharp edges and corners or an ankle when stepping on it be reduced significantly to a building block. Also from these security considerations the building block is widely accepted by parents.

Because a building block according to the invention with comparatively sharp corners and Edges can be used to make a mold with less Outer contours get along, which costs both the manufacture of the mold as well as the actual building block.

Another advantage is that a building block according to the invention a certain surface roughness due to the choice of raw materials has and is therefore particularly handy. Thus need according to the invention Building blocks, especially for younger children, have no gap or edges, which reduces the manufacturing costs due to a simpler shape.

A module according to the invention is preferably produced using a from the prior art fiber molding process known in the art. Fiber molding process have long been used to manufacture egg boxes, fruit and vegetable dishes and the like used. In fiber molding, a wire mesh mold is for example with a mesh size of approx. 0.4 mm, in a cellulose-containing one Mold slurry immersed and the object to be manufactured then by suction on the Deposited inside the mold by means of a pump on the surface of the mold. With this process, the cellulose fibers automatically separate in a more uniform manner Wall thickness. The wall thickness and thus the mechanical strength of the manufactured object can be specified by choosing simple process parameters such as pumping power, pumping time, consistency and Fiber size of the cellulose pulp.

With fiber molding processes, any structures can be made, especially flat ones Structures, of high strength, great surface quality and almost any Produce edging very inexpensively and in large series. Recently could with such properties, such as the shape, the Manufacturing tolerances and fit, great strides can be made. This makes this invention the first time for the production of game or model building blocks use with surprisingly beneficial properties.

The building blocks have connecting elements or projections on their surface on that for mechanical connection with other building blocks of receiving sections or hollow structures of the other building blocks that are included in are approximately complementary to the connecting elements. The connection takes place on the one hand in that a connecting element and a receiving section are brought into a frictional engagement with each other. Together connected building blocks are held together by static friction forces.

On the other hand, the strength of the connection is also increased in that the cellulosic material of the module at least in the area of the connecting elements and the receiving sections are compressed or stretched, i.e. deformed, can be. For this purpose, the internal dimensions of a receiving section are preferred slightly mine chosen as the outer dimensions of the corresponding Connection element on the neighboring block. For mechanical connection a connecting element with slight expansion or Deformation of a connecting section introduced into this. Because of a The contact pressure in the connection area becomes quasi-elastic deformation force increases, which increases the static friction and thus the strength of the connection elevated.

Since the wall of a building block according to the invention is quasi-elastic deformable, can this just like a conventional building block several times with other building blocks connected and disconnected again.

To increase the static friction, the surface of the block is in the range of Connection sections or in the entire interior (if the block is a hollow block is formed) comparatively rough or coarse-grained, for example from the roughness on the inside of well-known egg boxes. The rough inner surface However, it does not affect the aesthetics of the building block because of the inside is practically invisible.

The outer surface of a module according to the invention is preferably covered by Repress its surface, either wet or under repeated moistening of the surfaces of an already dried building block, smoothed to give the block an attractive appearance.

The connecting elements and the receiving sections are expediently in one or arranged in two dimensions periodically or at regular intervals, so that they form a regular grid.

The connecting elements are preferably on the upper side and the receiving sections arranged on the bottom of the block, the number of connecting elements appropriately corresponds to the number of receiving sections. Additionally or alternatively, however, the receiving sections can also be opened any other side of the block, for example, to be arranged Realization of direct corner connections.

For the connecting elements and associated receiving sections are one Many different basic shapes possible. For example, these can be like also known from the prior art, have a circular base. Due to the flexibility of the material, there are also fasteners and receiving sections with comparatively create corners and edges without further possible, for example with a square base.

So that as little material as possible is needed for the production and the weight of a building block is as small as possible, it is preferably a hollow building block educated. The interior of a hollow building block is used to stiffen the building block preferably divided into sub-modules by webs, for example by at least a longitudinal web in the longitudinal direction of the module and / or at least one Cross bar perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal and / or preferably close Cross bars are flush with the bottom edge of the block.

Each sub-module expediently has one connecting element and one Recording section on. Alternatively, however, several sub-modules can also be used Connecting elements and receiving sections can be assigned, preferably in even number.

For segmentation of the building block, the one used for manufacturing points Wire mesh form either on its surface counter forms to form the Longitudinal and transverse webs on the inside of the block or consist of one Number of identical individual forms that are next to each other at a suitable distance to be ordered. Preferably, the shape of the block is chosen so that the strength of the longitudinal webs and transverse webs that form on the inside of the Building block corresponds to twice the thickness of the side walls of the building block. At In this embodiment, it is preferred that the distance between adjacent ones Fasteners each twice the thickness of the side walls of the Building block corresponds, so that the receiving sections directly from the side walls (4) and / or a longitudinal web and / or a transverse web.

In an alternative embodiment, the distance between adjacent ones Fasteners also larger than twice the thickness of the side walls of the block can be selected. In this alternative embodiment, the Manufacturing, however, used mold sections specifically to form Have receiving sections, each with at least one retaining web connected to the side walls and / or a longitudinal web and / or a transverse web are. In this embodiment, the shape of the receiving sections is not is determined by the footprint of a module sub-module, the Connecting elements have any base, for example one circular base.

When separating the connecting elements by means of fiber molding, it is preferred that their side walls are not exactly perpendicular to the top of the block are aligned, but with the solder on the top of the block a small one Angle, for example between 1 ° and 30 ° and preferably between about 1 ° and include about 10 °. The complementary receiving sections are then frustoconical. A positive connection of building blocks over frustoconical connecting elements and receiving sections can be not realize known building blocks made of wood or plastic. This is a Another example of the variety of shapes that a building block according to the invention makes accessible.

Young children in particular prefer that the building blocks are firmly attached to one another be glued once a suitable structure has been found. For better Taking up glue or glue, it is preferred that when plugging together of building blocks an adhesive joint between neighboring building blocks remains free. For this purpose, preferably all side walls of a receiving section bevelled on the inside and on the lower edge. The side walls too of the block can be chamfered on the outside and / or inside. Thus, when plugged on top of one another remains between the top Building block and the side walls of a receiving section of an overlying Free a gap or joint to add glue or glue to record.

The mechanical stability of a building block according to the invention becomes predominant by the thickness of its side walls and, if necessary, its webs on the inside determined and can be easily using the fiber molding process can be specified by the choice of the pump duration as a manufacturing parameter. Each depending on the size of the fiber used in the manufacture, there is a wall thickness of about two to three millimeters proved to be particularly advantageous to build a building block with sufficient strength for repeated plugging and disconnection create.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, a game or Model building block created, which comprises a number of individual building blocks, the are so connected to each other to the game or model block that this in at least two smaller building blocks can be dismantled, each at least one Include individual building blocks and in turn in the type of game or model building block can be connected to other building blocks, i.e. by nesting Connecting elements and receiving sections, breaking apart no sharp, dangerous burrs are left behind.

The present invention enables a manufacturer to be more limited Assortment of standard building blocks can produce without the Functionality of the block is impaired. This less variety Building blocks significantly reduces manufacturing, storage and manufacturing costs Sales of game and model blocks.

A standard module according to the invention expediently has a larger number of Individual building blocks, each preferably a connecting element and one Have receiving section. Standard building blocks are preferred for example, consist of eight to ten individual building blocks. Needs a child to If you play or model a smaller building block, it simply disassembles it Standard block in a block of suitable size and shape. The after the Disassembling the rest of the standard building block can continue to be used since he according to the invention in the manner of the starting block with other blocks can be connected.

However, a game module according to the invention can not only be in individual modules or be broken down into sub-blocks with a rectangular base. Rather let it a large number of other types of building blocks can also be created from a standard building block easy to implement, for example blocks with an L-shaped Floor space. Modules according to the invention therefore have an advantageously larger one Functionality, which promotes children's creativity in an advantageous manner.

So that the game module can be disassembled, it is preferably as Hollow block formed. The interior of a hollow block is made up of a number is divided into individual building blocks by intersecting inner walls. Should For example, a standard block consists of eight individual blocks that are arranged side by side in pairs, so the interior of the Standard building block with one longitudinal bar and three orthogonal ones Cross bars divided.

Each inner wall can be used to disassemble the building block into individual building blocks preferably be divided in the middle, so that the inner walls by dividing the Sidewalls of the individual building blocks that are then created. Each is preferably of the inner walls only in sections with an adjacent inner wall or connected to the side wall of an adjacent individual component. The Inner wall areas with a lower thickness serve as predetermined breaking lines, along which the block can be broken down into the individual blocks.

In a preferred embodiment, the inner walls are essentially double-walled, two between adjacent side walls Individual building blocks each have a breakthrough that extends across the entire The height of the game component extends. The breakthrough extends over one Most of the side length of a single component, so that the individual components only are connected to each other via comparatively narrow connecting webs. This Connecting webs are preferably located on the edge of each Individual component.

The mechanical stability of the building block is in this embodiment in essentially by the wall thickness of the individual building blocks and by the thickness of the Connection bars set. Both parameters are expediently chosen so that the building block on the one hand the mechanical loads that usually occur can withstand and on the other hand can be dismantled without great effort.

Due to the breakthroughs, the outer walls are of individual building blocks slightly arched in sections. So that the building blocks nonetheless can be put together to form as flat a surface as possible the openings are appropriately narrow. The width of the Breakthroughs are downward only through the possibilities of the used Manufacturing process limited, but is otherwise hardly functional Meaning for the block. The breakthroughs can, however, be used for insertion A lever tool can be used to slide the block along the openings to break up.

For aesthetic reasons, an even and symmetrical arrangement and Shape of the openings preferred, for example openings with a rectangular or elliptical profile. The breakthroughs in Transition area of four neighboring individual building blocks either under Form a central breakthrough or form a central one Connection area converge.

In an alternative embodiment, they break through as predetermined breaking lines breakthroughs are not the top of the block. The top is rather trained throughout, so that the game module has a more advantageous appearance having. In this embodiment, the inner walls are preferred consistently double-walled. For mutual mechanical connection neighboring inner walls or the side walls of the individual building blocks are over connected at least one connecting web. This connecting bridge can be made comparatively small.

By cleverly arranging the connecting webs, the entire module can despite comparatively narrow connecting webs are designed to be mechanically stable, for example against warping in the longitudinal or transverse direction of the block. For this purpose, the connecting webs are preferably in the gap between adjacent ones Individual blocks at the bottom and arranged symmetrically, for example in the middle of the side wall of a single building block or on its left and right Edge.

To make it easier to disassemble the game module, the top of the Game building blocks in the transition area between neighboring individual building blocks and / or the connecting webs between the side walls can be adjacent Individual blocks must be provided with predetermined breaking points. These breaking points will be preferably by the shape used in the manufacture of the module given.

The connecting elements or connecting projections expediently have one square or circular base and are preferably each arranged in the middle on the top of a single component. The receiving sections are arranged complementary to the connecting elements. It is useful inner height of a receiving section is greater than the height of a Connecting element, so that the lower edge of a block is flush with the Top of a module located below can be inserted.

All connecting elements are preferably on the top of the module arranged while the receiving sections, the connecting elements opposite, are arranged on the underside of the block. For Realization of other types of connection, such as immediate Corner connections, however, can also be additional connecting elements or Receiving sections can be formed on the side walls of individual components. The connecting elements and receiving sections are on the top or Bottom periodically arranged in one or two dimensions, so that of these a periodic connection grid is formed.

Provided that the footprint of both the individual blocks and the Fasteners are square, the side walls can be one Receiving section directly the side walls of a single block correspond, i.e. the outer wall of the overall building block and / or a segment of the Longitudinal web and / or a segment of a transverse web. Otherwise, the Receiving sections each of extensions of the walls or webs mentioned educated.

A preferred embodiment of a game or model block according to the invention is made using a fiber molding process or an injection molding process made from a natural fiber or cellulose-containing material, for example from a paper or waste paper pulp.

As has already been explained in detail, the building blocks are made of cellulose-containing Material the connection between building blocks on the one hand by a non-positive Engagement of connecting elements and receiving sections and on the other hand due to a slight deformation or compression of the side walls of a Receiving section, whereby the contact pressure and thus the static friction between engaged connecting elements and receiving sections is increased.

For building blocks made of cellulose-containing material, it is preferred that the Side walls of a single component or a receiving section at the bottom are bevelled, namely the associated receiving section. Will be one Plugged module on another module, so remains between the top of the lower block and the lower edge of the block above Gap or a joint free to accommodate an adhesive or glue permanent connection of blocks can be used.

One that has proven particularly advantageous for building blocks made of cellulose-containing material Wall thickness of approximately two to three millimeters has been proven.

Instead of using a fiber molding process where a wire mesh mold is used a building block according to the invention can also be used by injection molding a pulp of suitable consistency in a form with continuous walls produce.

Fig. 1

eine perspektivische Ansicht eines erfindungsgemäßen Bausteins;

Fig. 2

perspektivische Ansichten der Unterseite von zwei bevorzugten Ausführungsformen der Erfindung;

Fig. 3

einen Querschnitt durch zwei aufeinandergesteckte erfindungsgemäße Bausteine im Bereich der Verbindungselemente;

Fig. 4

eine Perspektivansicht eines erfindungsgemäßen Spiel- bzw. Modellbausteins gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsform darstellt;

Fig. 5

die diversen Möglichkeiten der Zerlegung eines erfindungsgemäßen Spiel- bzw. Modellbausteins gemäß der zweiten Ausführungsform in kleinere Bausteine zeigt, der aus acht jeweils paarweise nebeneinander angeordneten Einzelbausteinen besteht;

Fig. 6A

eine Draufsicht im Teilschnitt auf einen erfindungsgemäßen Spiel- bzw. Modellbaustein gemäß der zweiten Ausführungsform ist;

Fig. 6B

eine Ansicht eines erfindungsgemäßen Spiel- bzw. Modellbaustein gemäß der zweiten Ausführungsform von unten darstellt;

Fig. 7

eine Teildraufsicht auf einen erfindungsgemäßen Spiel- bzw. Modellbaustein gemäß der zweiten Ausführungsform vor und nach seiner Zerlegung in Einzelbausteine darstellt;

Fig. 8A

einen Querschnitt längs der Schnittlinie A-A aus Fig. 6A darstellt;

Fig. 8B

einen Querschnitt längs derselben Schnittlinie A-A einer alternativen Ausführungsform darstellt; und

Fig. 9

einen Querschnitt durch zwei miteinander verbundene Spiel- bzw. Modellbausteine gemäß der zweiten Ausführungsform der vorliegenden Erfindung längs der Schnittlinie A-A aus Fig. 6A darstellt.

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings. The figures show:

Fig. 1

a perspective view of a block according to the invention;

Fig. 2

perspective bottom views of two preferred embodiments of the invention;

Fig. 3

a cross section through two stacked modules according to the invention in the region of the connecting elements;

Fig. 4

a perspective view of a game or model block according to the invention according to a second embodiment;

Fig. 5

shows the various possibilities for breaking down a game or model block according to the invention in accordance with the second embodiment into smaller blocks, which consists of eight individual blocks arranged in pairs next to one another;

Figure 6A

a top view in partial section of a game or model block according to the invention according to the second embodiment;

Figure 6B

a view of an inventive game or model block according to the second embodiment from below;

Fig. 7

a partial plan view of a game or model block according to the invention according to the second embodiment before and after its disassembly into individual blocks;

Figure 8A

a cross section along the section line AA of Fig. 6A;

Figure 8B

a cross section along the same section line AA of an alternative embodiment; and

Fig. 9

a cross section through two interconnected game or model blocks according to the second embodiment of the present invention along the section line AA of Fig. 6A.

In the figures, the same reference numerals indicate the same or equivalent elements on.

1 shows a perspective view of a game or Model block. The two-row module 1 comprises two eight on its upper side square connecting elements or projections 3, four of which are each in Longitudinal direction of the block are arranged periodically, so that one of these Pin grid is formed. The distance between the connecting elements 3 corresponds to twice the thickness of the side wall 4 of the block. The Sidewall is smooth walled by the block after the Fiber molding process either still wet or after renewed superficial moistening is pressed.

FIG. 2a shows a perspective view of the module from FIG. 1 from the Bottom 5 viewed from. To reinforce the interior of the as a hollow block trained block 1 by a longitudinal web 6 and three crossbars 7 in eight Sub-modules divided what the number of fasteners 3 on the Corresponds to the top of the block. The longitudinal web 6 and the transverse webs 7 close flush with the bottom edge of the block.

The thickness of the webs corresponds approximately to twice the thickness of the side walls 4 of the building block. In this embodiment, each receiving section corresponds to 8 a sub-module of the module and is in each case by a side wall 4, Segment of the longitudinal web 6 and a segment of a transverse web 7 are formed. The grid dimension given by the webs corresponds to that of the connecting elements 3 on the top 2 of the block.

Because the surface of the side walls and webs on the inside of the block is not was smoothed, individual natural or cellulose fibers protrude into the Receiving sections into, Furthermore, the base of a receiving section 8 selected to be slightly smaller than the base area of a connecting element 3.

For the mechanical connection of two components, the Connecting elements 3 in the preferably slightly smaller receiving sections 8 introduced. This leads to deformation or compression or Stretching the side walls of the receiving sections 8, so that a result Contact pressure of the side walls of a receiving section against the side walls of the recorded connecting element 3 is exercised, the static friction increased between these areas or improved the adhesion.

Fig. 2b shows an alternative embodiment of a block in which the Connecting elements 3, as an example of a different shape, a have a circular base. To include them on the inside 5 of the Building block receiving sections 8 'also formed with a circular base. The internal dimensions of the receiving sections 8 'are preferably also the same slightly mine than the outer dimensions of the connecting elements 3 selected.

To connect and hold the receiving sections 8 'are on the inside further retaining webs 9 are provided in an X-shaped arrangement, which at one end each with a receiving section 8 'and at its other end with one Sidewall or a segment of the longitudinal web or a cross bar connected are. In this embodiment, it is not necessary that the webs on the Seal the inside of the block flush with the lower edge of the block.

Fig. 3 shows a cross section through two interconnected, two-row Building blocks. The blocks are placed on top of each other so that the side walls of the Connecting elements 3 of the lower block each in a frictional engagement with a side wall 12, the longitudinal web and a transverse web (not shown) of the upper block. The lower edge of the longitudinal web 6, a transverse web 7 (not shown) and the side walls 12 of the upper block touch the top 2 of the lower block.

Since the longitudinal web 6, the transverse webs 7 and the side walls 12 of the block each are bevelled at the bottom and towards the respective receiving section (Reference numeral 10) remains between the top 2 of a lower block and the lower edge of the webs or side walls of a building block located above an intermediate space 11, which is used as an adhesive joint for receiving adhesive or glue can be used.

While it was always shown in the figures that a building block according to the invention as a two-row module with a total of eight connecting elements and receiving sections is formed, the module can also with any other Number of connecting elements and receiving sections may be provided.

The dimensions of the module can be varied within wide limits. A length in the range between 30 mm and 100 mm, a width is preferred in the range between 15 mm and 50 mm and a height in the range between 9 mm and 25 mm, without a limitation of the above-mentioned dimensions Scope of protection of the appended claims can be seen. For stiffening it is preferred for larger building blocks that on the inside longitudinal and Cross bars are formed.

FIGS. 4 to 9 show a second preferred embodiment of the Present invention shown, namely a dismantled game or Model block.

4 shows a perspective view of a game or Model block. The block 1 is formed in two rows and includes on it Top 2 eight square connecting elements or projections 3, of which four are arranged periodically in the longitudinal direction of the block, so that from this a plug-in grid is formed. The distance between the Connecting elements 3 on the top 2 corresponds to twice the Thickness of the side wall 14 of the block. The outside surface of the block is smooth-walled. The module 1 comprises eight individual modules 100, each a connecting element 3 on the top 2 and a receiving section on the Have underside. Each individual component 100 has a square one Floor space.

As shown in Fig. 5, the block 1 can be applied to the in FIGS. 6 and 7 show breakthroughs 4 into smaller building blocks 1a-1f of any configuration. Each of these smaller building blocks includes just like the output block at least one individual block and can be in the Type of output module 1 connected to other modules of any size can be. The side walls of the smaller building blocks 1a-1f are smooth-walled. Instead of in the blocks with a rectangular base shown Disassemble building block 1 into building blocks with other bases, for example with L-shaped base.

6A shows a top view in partial section of a game or Model block according to the second embodiment. Between Connecting elements 3 of adjacent individual building blocks 100 each extend Breakthroughs 14 parallel to the side edges of the block. Everyone's breakthroughs 14 extends over the major part of the side length of a single component, so that only comparatively narrow between openings 14 which converge Connecting webs 15 remain on the edge of each individual module 100, over the Adjacent individual building blocks 100 are connected to one another. Where neighboring Breakthroughs can converge, either a central breakthrough 16 be formed or the connecting web 15 be formed continuously. The breakthroughs extend perpendicular to the plane of the drawing over the entire height H of module 1.

6B shows a view of the underside of the game or model block from FIGS Figures 4 and 6A, clearly up to the top 2 of the block 1 extending openings 14 and central openings 16 (optional), which the Divide the inner walls of the block designed as a hollow block symmetrically. When a shear force is exerted on the block 1 along its longitudinal direction L or transverse direction B, the building block becomes along the openings 14 break apart. The openings 14 serve as predetermined breaking lines or Areas of weakness. Due to the longitudinal openings 14 are shown Longitudinal webs and transverse webs in the interior of the module are essentially double-walled educated.

At the point where an opening 14 was cut open by the action of force, one inner wall 19 of the output module then corresponds to the outer wall of the separated block and the other inner wall 19 of the output block of Outer wall of the remainder of the output module 1 then remaining.

In the embodiment shown in Figs. 6A and 6B corresponds to Distance between adjacent connecting elements 3 on the top 2 Twice the thickness of a side wall 22 of the building block or the thickness of one Side wall of a single component, as can be seen in FIGS. 6B, 8 and 9.

7 shows a partial top view of a game or Model block according to the second embodiment before its disassembly (right Side) and after its disassembly (left side) into individual building blocks along the Breakthroughs 14. It can be clearly seen that the building block in the area of the connecting sections 15, approximately in the middle of the openings 14, breaks apart. In the Fig. 7 fringed break line is particularly formed when the block is made of a cellulosic material. With building blocks cellulosic material can break this line with one finger be smoothed out.

FIG. 8A shows a cross section along the section line A-A from FIG. 6A. The shown profile with curved and bevelled inner edges occurs in particular for building blocks made with the help of a fiber molding process cellulosic material. The module 1 points to all Outside walls, namely in the area of the connecting elements 3, on the top 2 and on the side walls 22, the same wall thickness. The distance over the the two inner walls 19 correspond to twice the thickness of a side wall 22 and is equal to the distance between the connecting elements 3 on the top 2 of the building block.

Due to the selected dimensions, the clear width between the Inner walls 19 of the width of a connecting element 3. Therefore, in this Embodiment of the receiving section 24 for receiving a Connecting element 3 directly from the inner walls 19 and the side walls 22 are trained.

In FIG. 8, the end edge is a between the two inner walls 19 continuous wall area 15 recognizable.

8B shows a cross section through a module according to an alternative Embodiment along the same cross-sectional line A-A. With this alternative Embodiment, which is particularly preferred for plastic blocks, the opening 14 between individual modules does not extend through the Top 2 through, as is the case in Fig. 8A. The top is rather trained throughout. In this embodiment, the inner walls are 19th rather, double-walled, the individual building blocks are only one thin section on the top and possibly additional, comparatively small Connecting webs in the gap 14 connected between two individual components 19. The The thickness of the top and the connecting webs is such that the Output module 1 has sufficient mechanical stability, however Force can easily be broken down into individual building blocks.

In the case of building blocks made of cellulose-containing material, those walls are one Form receiving section 24, at the lower edge and towards the receiving section beveled. If two such modules are plugged onto each other, as shown in Fig. 9 is shown, so remains between the top 2 of the lower block and the the walls forming the receiving sections free a gap or a joint, the or for the admission of glue and for the firm connection of building blocks can be used. In the area of the receiving sections 24, the Side walls of the connecting elements 3 and those forming a receiving section Walls interlock with each other.

While it was always shown in the figures that a building block according to the invention as a two-row module with a total of eight connecting elements and Is formed receiving sections, the block can also with any another number of connecting elements and receiving sections.

The dimensions of the module can be varied within wide limits. A length in the range between 30 mm and 100 mm, a width is preferred in the range between 15 mm and 50 mm and a height in the range between 9 mm and 25 mm, without a limitation of the above-mentioned dimensions Scope of protection of the appended claims can be seen. The width of the Breakthroughs 4 are preferably kept as low as possible and can be in the area are between about 0.5 mm and 2 mm.

Apart from the cellulose-containing starting materials mentioned, this can be done inventive concept of a disassembled game or model building block also with other suitable materials.

Not only cellulose but also chopped material can be used as the starting material slurried wood, leaves and the like, and slurries from others Natural fibers such as jute, hemp, cotton etc. can be used.

In the first embodiment of the present invention, the following can Variations can be made:

The connecting elements (3) and the receiving sections (8, 8 ') can be complementary to each other. Furthermore, the module (1) as Be hollow module. Furthermore, the lower edge of the at least one Longitudinal web (6) and / or transverse web (7) flush with the underside of the module (1) to lock. Furthermore, the distance between adjacent connecting elements (3) greater than twice the thickness of the side walls (4) of the module (1), wherein the receiving sections (8 ') via holding webs (9) with the side walls (4) and / or the at least one longitudinal web (6) and / or the at least one Crossbar (7) are connected, the thickness of the side walls (4) of the Building block (1) preferably about two to three millimeters.

In the second embodiment of the present invention, the following can Variations can be made:

There can be four openings (4) in the transition area of four each neighboring individual components (10) with the formation of a central breakthrough (6) converge. Furthermore, in the transition area of four a central connection area (5) is formed adjacent to the individual components (10) be. Furthermore, the upper side (2) of the game component (1) can be made continuous be, the side walls (9) of the individual modules (10) each over at least a connecting web are connected to each other, at least extends in sections along a single block and its height is less than the height (h) of the game component (1).

Furthermore, the connecting elements (3) can each have a square projection and be formed centrally on an upper side (2) of the individual component (10). Or the Connecting elements (3) can each have a circular projection and in the middle the top (2) of the individual component (10). Furthermore, the Receiving section (14) each from the side walls (9) of an individual component (10) are formed, the receiving portion being formed by extensions is connected to the side walls (9) of a single block via retaining webs are. Furthermore, the receiving section (14) can be complementary to that Connecting element (3) may be formed. Furthermore, the amount of Receiving sections (14) greater than or equal to the height (h) of the connecting elements (3).

Furthermore, the side walls (9) of a single module at the bottom, to the respective receiving section (14), beveled so that when mutual Connect two game components between the top (2) of a game component and a gap remains free on the side walls of another building block. Can also the outer dimensions of a connecting element (3) and the inner dimensions of a receiving section (14) essentially correspond to one another, the Connection of two building blocks through a frictional engagement of Connecting elements (3) and receiving sections (14) is effected. Further can the side walls (9) of a Receiving section upset or deformed. Furthermore, the Play module smoother on the outside, at least in the area of the connecting elements (3) be trained as inside. Furthermore, connecting elements (3) and Receiving sections in one or two dimensions periodically under training be arranged in a grid. Furthermore, the individual components (10) can each have one have a square base.

The present application claims the priorities of the German Patent applications No. 198 23 688.3-15 with the title "game building block from one material containing natural fibers "and No. 198 23 689.3-15 with the title" Demountable Play module, in particular made of a cellulose-containing material ", the Disclosure hereby expressly by reference in the present Registration included.

Claims (15)

Game or model component which has a number of connecting elements (3) and a number of receiving sections (8, 8 ') for receiving connecting elements in order to connect the component (1) to at least one other component, characterized in that the component (1) consists of a natural fiber-containing material with a large number of small individual fibers, preferably without a fixed preferred orientation. Module according to claim 1, characterized in that a material of the module (1) is compressible or deformable at least in the area of the connecting elements (3) and the receiving sections (8, 8 '), so that the connecting elements (3) and receiving sections (8 , 8 ') with compression or deformation of the material of the module (1), at least in the area of the connecting elements (3) and the receiving sections (8, 8'), can be brought into a positive mutual engagement. Building block according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the surface of the building block (1) is smooth-walled on the outside than on the inside. Module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting elements (3) on a top side (2) of the module (1) and the receiving sections (8, 8 ') on a bottom side of the module (1) periodically in one or two dimensions are arranged are arranged. Building block according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connecting elements (3) and the receiving sections (8, 8 ') each have a square base area. Module according to claim 11, characterized in that an interior (5) of the module (1) is segmented into at least two sub-modules by at least one longitudinal web (6) and / or transverse web (7), each sub-module being a connecting element (3) and a Receiving section (8, 8 ') is assigned. Building block according to claim 6, characterized in that the thickness of the at least one longitudinal web (6) and / or transverse web (7) corresponds to twice the thickness of side walls (4) of the building block (1), the distance between adjacent connecting elements (3) each corresponds to twice the thickness of the side walls (4) of the component (1) and the receiving sections (8) are formed by the side walls (4) and / or the at least one longitudinal web (6) and / or the at least one transverse web (7) . Module according to one of claims 4 to 7, characterized in that the side walls of the connecting elements (3) with an solder on the top (2) of the module (1) enclose an angle in the range between approximately 1 ° and approximately 10 °, the receiving sections (8, 8 ') are complementary and also frustoconical. Building block according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the side walls and / or the at least one longitudinal web (6) and / or the at least one transverse web (7) are chamfered at the respective lower end and towards the respective receiving section (8, 8 ') , so that when connecting two building blocks between the mutually engaged connecting elements (3) and receiving sections (8, 8 '), a joint (11) remains free for receiving adhesive. Game or model block with a number of connecting elements (3) and a number of receiving sections (24), in which a connecting section (24) each has a connecting element (3) of another playing block for connecting a game module (1) to at least one other game module which game component (1) is formed in one piece, comprises a number of individual components (100) and can be broken down into at least two smaller components (1a-1f), each comprising at least one individual component (100) and in the type of game component ( 1) can be connected to other game components, characterized in that the game or model component consists of a natural fiber or cellulose-containing material. Game module according to claim 10, characterized in that the game module has on its inside a number of intersecting inner walls (19) which divide the game module (1) into the number of individual modules (100) and along which the game module can be dismantled, the Inner walls are connected to one another at least in sections via connecting sections (15). A toy module according to claim 11, characterized in that an opening (14), which preferably has a rectangular or elliptical profile, is formed between adjacent side walls (19) of two individual modules (100) and extends over the height of the toy module (1). Play module according to claim 12, characterized in that the top (2) of the play module in the transition area between adjacent individual modules (100) and / or that at least one connecting web between the side walls (19) of adjacent individual modules (100) is provided with predetermined breaking points. Play module according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving section (24) is formed in each case by the side walls (19) of an individual module (100) or by extensions which are connected to the side walls (19) of an individual module via retaining webs. Building block according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by its production by depositing natural fibers, in particular cellulose fibers, from a pulp containing natural fibers, in particular from a pulp containing cellulose, on a form of wire mesh using a fiber molding process.

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