GB1143477A - Improvements relating to structural elements for use in the erection of frameworks - Google Patents

Abstract

1,143,477. Structural plug-in elements. A. HUFGARD. 22 Aug., 1966, No. 37575/66. Heading A6S. [Also in Division E1] Toy building apparatus comprises a series of elongated elements 1, 2, 3 which can be plugged together lengthwise or transversely, each with square cross-section of outside size the same size as the inner longitudinal passage through the next largest element. In the side walls are square-shaped apertures of the same size as the inner passage between the side walls, arranged so that the upper and lower edges of successive pairs of apertures (one of each pair in one of an opposing pair of side walls) are in longitudinal staggered relationship lying in a common plane intersecting perpendicularly the main axis of the element, and so that all the apertures in a particular side wall are aligned along its length. The side walls of at least the largest element in the series have a second set of apertures for inserting plug-in members such as smaller elements, fixing pins, connecting and joint elements; and the two sets of apertures alternate in each side wall. The second set may be square in cross-section. A short portion of at least the last element may be designed as a clamping sleeve or may be coupled to a U- shaped joint bridge 15. A short portion of an element may be in the nature of a plate-like bearing member 8 with a circular hole 8' and projections round its periphery. The elements may be of metal sheets bent inward round the apertures to form bearing surfaces for inserted elements, or of plastics such as resiliently deformable polymers, or of cast concrete.