GB2530540A

GB2530540A - Modular toy-construction system

Info

Publication number: GB2530540A
Application number: GB1416948.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Nicola Contreras; Nigel Owen Contreras
Original assignee: IMAGINE DESIGN & PLAY Ltd
Current assignee: IMAGINE DESIGN & PLAY Ltd
Priority date: 2014-09-25
Filing date: 2014-09-25
Publication date: 2016-03-30
Also published as: GB201416948D0

Abstract

A panel 10 for a modular toy-construction system comprises a main body 12 having a connector storage portion 14 therein; and an engagement means 16 for in use releasably interconnecting the panel 10 to an adjacent panel 10. The engagementmeans 16 includes a panel connector 18 which is stowably engagable with the connector storage portion 14 when not in use. A modular toy-construction system is also provided which utilises a plurality of such panels 10. An adornment for the modular toy-construction system is also disclosed.

Description

Modular Toy-Construction System The present invention relates to a panel for a modular toy-construction system. in particular, for use as part of a child's play set. The invention further relates to a modular toy-construction system utilising such panels, and a method of constructing a play area for a child using the modular toy-construction system. Furthermore, there is provided an adornment for a modular toy-construction system. and a method of decorating a modular toy-construction system using said adornment.

Children flnd enjoyment in construction, and there are provided many oy construction systems, typically utilising small interconnectable plastic bricks. frotn which the child may build objects. However, such toy sets are generally only small-scale, with a child being unable to build larger objects with which they can interact and play.

Play areas which can be assembled and disassembled would be ideal, allowing a child to use theft imagination to build larger-scale structures and objects within, on or around which they could play.

The problem with existing toy construction systems is firstly that the bricks utilised are typically very hard-wearing plastics, which results in sharp corners and rough surfaces, making them unsuitable for general use as play areas. Secondly, the connectors which connect the arger portions of the system are easily lost, and children become frustrated if the component that they need to complete a particular structure is not found easily.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to create a larger-scale modular toy-construction system for a child which is capable of simple assembly and with which it is safe to play.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a panel for a modular toy-construction system for a child, the panel comprising: a main body having an connector storage portion therein; and an engagement means for in use releasably interconnecting the panel to an adjacent panel, the engagement means including a panel connector; wherein the panel connector is stowably engagable with the connector storage portion when not in use.

Construction systems for children are known, but these are typically small-scale, and only useful br die construction of small toys or objects. Typically, such systems are formed from plastics materials, and therefore larger structures are hard, which means that a child can readily injure themselves on the structure. The present invention allows for larger-scale structures, typically of the order of a metre or more in size, to be con structcd easily by a child.

A modular system including reguhrly shaped panels can he combined into many imaginative structures without difficulty. The panels readily intersect with the panel connectors provided, so as to form stable, large-scale structures which a child can then subsequently usc as a play arca.

The present invention advantageously provides for a simple means of storing the panel connectors of the pands, which arc often lost hy the uscr in equivalent construction systems for children, by simple interengagement of panel connectors within the main body of panel.

Preferably, the panel connector may be or substantially be flush with the main body of the pand when engaged with the connector storage portion. Said connector storage portion may be an apcrturc in the main body of the panel, and may be complementarily shaped so as to receive the panel connector. Furthermore, the main body of the panel may he or substantially he p'anar or have a square profile.

Ideally, the panel connector can he formed so as to he readily received in the main body of a panel such that a uniform panel is suhsequenfly formed. This advantageously allows the user to use panel couuectors to fill in auy uusightly gaps in the structure.

whilst also making the formation of completely planar surfaces possible. This allows for the facile construction of a safe floor area as part of a child's play area.

Optionally the panel maybe spongilorm.

A spongiform panel beneficially hmits the damage a chfld can do to themselves on the modular toy-construction system, since corucr portious of the panels in particular will not contain sharp edges, and accidental tripping of a child will result only in collision with a soft surface.

The panel connector may beneficially include a plurality of engagement portions capable of engaging with the panel. and each said engagement portion may be a slot engagahic with the panel. The panel connector may have a circular profile, each slot extending radially to the circumference of the panel connector, and furthermore the slots of the panel connector may be either equi-angularly or non-equi-angularly positioned around (lie circumference oF the panel connector. Alternatively, the panel connector may have a semi-circular profile.

Panel connectors are beneficially regularly formed so as to be easily accepted into the connector storage portion of a panel, whilst slots represent a simple way of interconnecting adjacent panels without utilising the connector storage portion.

Should the panel connector have slots, at least two slots of the panel connector may have an angular separation of 45 degrees, an angular separation of 60 degrees, andlor an angular separation of 90 degrees.

By providing panel connectors having slots positioned at very precisely defined and regular angles, regular structures can be formed using the modular toy-construction system, therehy advantageously simplifying use of the system.

The said engagement means may further comprise at least one complementary engagement portion on the main body of the panel engagable with one engagement portion of the panel connector, and said the or each complementary engagement portions may he slots.

Providing complementary slots in the main body of the panel ensures that the connection between the panel and the panel connector is secure, resifiting in sturdy and stable structures which arise when using the system.

Optionally, the engagement means may further comprise a retaining means for securing the panel and panel connector in engagement with one another. In this instance, the panel connector may include a p'urality of slots capable of engaging with the pand, the retaining means including a gripping portion at an open end of each slot capable of gripping the panel. Furthermore, the main body may have a receiving portion complementarily shaped so as to be gripped by the gripping portion of the retaining means.

Any additional means of retaining the panels and panel connectors in engagement with one another is also highly advantageous, ensuring that components do not accidentally misalign during construction.

In one preferable embodiment, the panel connector may further comprise a secondary accepting portion and a secondary panel connector engagable with the secondary accepting portion, the secondary panel connector being stowably engagable with the secondary accepting portion when not in use. Said secondary accepting portion may he an aperture through the panel connector, and the panel may further comprise a secondary engagement portion on the main body engagable with the secondary panel connector.

It may be preferable to provide a means of engaging adjacent panels with one another which is different to that of the standard panel conncctor. In the subsequently depicted embodiments, panels and panel connectors are generally arranged perpendicular to one another, and therefore a floor panel cannot be readily formed without providing a secondary connector capable of engaging adjacent panels such that the finalised structure is completely planar.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a modular toy-construction system for a child comprising a plurality of panels, preferably in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, wherein adjacent panels are interconnectable using at least panel connectors of the panels.

A modular toy-construction system utilising such pands can he readfly constructed into a variety of configurations, there being a simple way of stowing panel connectors of the system when not in use. This advantageously allows for the creation of a mu1ti-iunctiona structure.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of interconnecting panels to construct a play area for a child using a modular toy-construction system, preferably in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the method comprising the step of inserting the panel connector into the connector storage portion of a panel of the system such that a volumetric extent of the panel is unchanged.

The stowing of panel connectors from the main hodies of panels ensures that the panel connectors are not lost between separate uses of the modular toy-construction system, eliminating the frustration which abounds when a child cannot find the necessary construction component.

According to a iourth aspect ol (lie invention, (here is provided an adornment for a modular toy-construction system. preferably in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the adornment comprising a main body and a connection element, wherein the connection element is releasably engagable with a connector storage portion of a panel of the system.

An adornment, allows the child to change the appearance awl/or functionality of a resultant structure, vastly increasing the options for construction available to thc child.

Preferably, the connection element may be complernentarily shaped to the connector storage portion.

The connector storage portion therefore serves a secondary purpose; a panel can be readily upaded with an adornment so as to change the appearance and/or functionality of the structure, aflowing for many more possible structures to he formed.

The said main body may include a decorative portion which is visible once the adornment is connected to a panel, and/or the connection element may include a decorative portion which is visible once the adornment is connected to a panel.

A decorative portion allows the modular toy-construction system to be visually upgraded with aesthetically pleasing inlages. This couM either he to create a more realistic look to the structure, for example by providing portions with a wood, stone or brick effect, or could be customisable to allow any number of third party properties to be shown. By way of example, a child's favourite cartoon character could be provided on a particular panel, and this may be permanently attached or removable and thus interchangeable by, for example, a magnctic surface.

Preferably, the main body may be a panel, and preferably still the main body may be engagable with panel connectors of the modular toy-construction system.

By providing adornments which are readily compatible with the existing pands ci the modular toy-construction system. the adornments may be more easily incorporated into a child's structure.

The adornment may further comprise a functional element, which may, for example, be a wipe-clean drawing surface, a magnetic surface and/or a lighting element.

Functional elements allow the structure to serve a purpose, enabling a child to replicate as many features of standard constructions which might be seen around the house to be incorporated into the structure of their imagination.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of decorating a modular toy-construction system, preferably in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the method comprising the steps inserting the connection element of an adornment, preferably in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention, into the connector storage portion of a panel of the modular toy-construction system, such that the appearance and/or functionality of the modular toy-construction system is altered.

Again, the dual purpose of the connector storage portions of a panel ensure that a child can create as many structures as can he formed within their imagination.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of reducing a storage volume of a modular toy-construction system. preferably in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the method comprising the step of locating m inter-panel connector when not in use within the body of a panel of the modular toy-construction system. so as to be coplanar or substantially coplanar therewith.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of reducing a volume of material required for a modular toy-construction system, preferably in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, the method comprising the step of forming an inter-panel connector from the body of a panel of the modular toy-construction system. whereby the inter-panel connector is releasable from the body to enable engagement between two neighbouring panels.

The invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example only, with relerence to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective representation of a first embodiment of a panel connector in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, having a main body and a panel connector held integrally therewithin; Figure 2 shows a perspective representation of the main body of the panel of Figure 1 with the integrated panel connector removed; Figure 3 shows a perspective representation of the pand connector of Figure 1; Figure 4 shows an enlarged perspective representation of a portion of one side of a first embodiment of a modular toy-construction system in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, utilising a plurality of panels shown in Figure 1; Figure 5 shows the reverse view of the modular toy-construction system of Figure 4; Figure 6 shows an enlarged perspective representation of a portion of a structure formed using the modular toy-construction system of Figure 4. including a second embodiment of a panel connector; Figure 7 shows a perspective representation of the second embodiment of the panel connector show in Figure 6; Figure 8 shows a full perspective view of the structure shown in Figure 6; Figure 9 shows a perspective representation of a second embodiment of a panel, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; Figure 10 shows perspective representation of a third embodiment of a panel connector including a secondary panel connector, as utilised with the panel of Figure 9; Figure 11 shows the pand of Figure 9 connected to a plura'ity of secondary panel connectors; Figure 12 shows a perspective representation of a second embodiment of a modular toy-construction system. in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, utilising panels as shown in Figures 9 and 11; Figure 13 shows a perspective representation of a third embodiment of a panel, in accordance with the first aspect of the invention; Figure 14 shows a perspective representation of a third embodiment of a modular toy-construction system. in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, utilising panels as shown in Figure 13: Figure 15 shows a pcrspective reprcscntation of a fourth embodiincnt of a modular toy-construction system. in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, utilising a plurality of a fourth embodiment of a panel in accordance with the first aspect of the invention, the main bodies of which are interconnected by a fourth embodiment of a panel connector; Figure 16 shows an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of the modular toy-construction system as shown in Figure 15; Figure 17 shows a perspective representation of a structure formed from the modular toy-construction system as shown in Figure 15; Figure 18 shows a plan view ol an alternative arrangement of the modular toy-construction system of Figure 15. the panels being interconnected by a second embodiment of a secondary panel connector; Figure 19 shows a perspective representation of the modular toy-construction system ol Figure 15 inclusive of a p'urality ol adornments, in accordance with the fourth aspect of the invention: Figure 20 shows a perspective representation of a structure formed from the modular toy-construction system as shown in Figure 19, adjacent perpendicular panels being interconnected by a fifth embodiment of a panel connector; and Figure 21 shows a perspective representation of a fifth embodiment of a modular toy-construction system. in accordance with (lie second aspect of (lie invention, including a third embodiment of a secondary panel connector.

Referring firstly to Figures 1 to 3, there is shown a first embodiment of a panel, indicated globally at 10, for use in a modular toy-construction system, the panel comprising a main body 12 having a connector storage portion therein 14, and an engagement means 16 for in use releasably interconnecting the panel 10 to an adjacent panel. The engagement means 16 includes an inter-panel connector 18 which is stowably engagable with the connector storage portion 14 so as to form an integrated preferably coplanar or substantially coplanar part of the panel 10. if required.

In the present embodiment, the main body 12 of the panel is preferably square in profile, having four edges 20. The main body 12 may he advantageously formed from a spongifoim material, such as a dense closed-cell foam, which is safe for handling by a child, and thereby avoiding any sharp edges. Inwardly cut from each edge 20 are provided preferaNy two panel s'ots 22, which Form part of the engagement means 16.

Each panel slot 22 is a rectilinear channel in this case, aligned perpendicularly to the edge 20 into which it is cut. Any number of panel slots 22 in each edge 20 could however he provided, and the shapes may differ dependent on necessity. For example, the panel slot may define a keyway or have a non-uniform longitudinal extent for keying with a connector.

The panel connector 18, shown separately in Figure 3, has a largely disciform main body 24 which is smaller than the main body 12 of the panel 10 and is receivable by the connector storage portion 14. A number of radially inwardly cut connector slots 26 are provided in the main body 24 of the panel connector 18 which are complenientarily engagable with the panel slots 22 of the panel 10. Although generally circular, the connector may feasibly have other shapes, such as non-circular or polygonal.

In the present embodiment, eight such connector slots 26 are provided, equi-angularly positioned about the circumferential perimeter 28 of the pand connector 18 so as to each he separated by 45 degrees. This provides the panel connector 18 with a sun-like perimeter 28. However, any number of connector slots 26 could be provided in any given angular relationship. equi-angularly spaced or otherwise.

The connector storage portion 14 in the present embodiment is an aperture through the main body 12 of the panel 10 which is identically shaped and sized so as to accept the main body 24 of the panel connector 18 therein, such that the panel connector 18 can be readily stowed. However, any appropriately sized or shaped connector storage portion 14 could be used. For example, a circular aperture might result in a less rigidly held panel connector 18 when stowed, hut might he easier for the user to insert the panel connector 18 therein. Although m aperture is provided, any suitable opening may be utilised, such as a recess into which the connector can be pressed.

In use, adjacent panels 10 can be interconnected using the panel connectors 18. as shown in Figures 4 and 5. which show a first embodiment of a modular toy-construction system indicated globally as 1000. A pancl connector 18 may he connected to a first panel 10 using the engagement means 16, which involves interengagement of the complementary panel and connector slots 22, 26. An adjacent panel 10 can then be similarly attached to the panel connector 18, thereby interconnecting the two said panels 10.

As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the adjacent panels 10 may be interconnected edge-to-edge, either in parallel or perpendicular to one another 10. It is self-evident that panels could additionally he interconnected in multiples of 45 degrees as well.

A number of free-standing upright structures can therefore he constructed utilising a modular toy-construction system 1000 such as that shown. However, it is difficult to construct structures having triangular arrangements using oniy panel connectors as illustrated thus far.

When disassembling a structure formed from the modular toy-construction system 1000, the user can insert the panel connectors 18 into the connector storage portions 14 of the panel 10 such that they engage with a complementary fit. In the present embodiment, the connector storage portion 14 is an exact match for the panel connector 18, but any shape or size could be provided so long as the panel connector 18 is engaged.

When stowed, the panel connector 18 is held flush with the main body 12 of the panel 10, such that a panel 10 maybe laid down, with the panel 10 taking up the same amount of physical space as it previously had done, that is, the panel 10 retains the same volumetric extent. This is a great advantage of the present invention, since separate storage for the panel connectors 18 does not necessarily have to be provided. However, the pancl connector 18 does not necessarily have to he flush whcn acccptcd, and could, for instance, be provided with a contoured surface so as to provide an interesting non-planar shape, outline or profile to the panel 10 once engaged with the connector storage portion 14.

A different arrangement of the modular toy-construction system 1000 is shown in Figure 6 in which two pands 10 have been interconnected utilising a second embodiment of panel connector 118. For easc of reference and due to the multiple embodiments and options described hereinafter, references which are similar to those of the first embodiment are utilised to refer to similar parts, and therefore further detailed

description is omitted.

The panel connector 118, as better shown in Figure 7. again has a disciforni main body 124 and a plurality of radially inwardly cut connector slots 126. five in this embodiment, and the connector slots 126 are spaced apart in a non-equi-angular relationship. Four of the slots 126a, 126b are each separated by 60 degrees. with the fifth slot 126e being 90 degrees between the two diametrically opposed slots 126b.

The connector slots 126 of the panel connector 118 are capable of interengaging with the complementary panel slots 22 of the panels 10 of the system 1000, as with the first embodiment of panel connector 18; however, the 60 degree arrangement of connector slots 126 ensures that triangifiar structures can he formed. A complete play area built using the modular toy-construction system 1000 is illustrated in Figure 8.

Figure 8 gives an idea of the scale of the modular toy-construction system 1000; the assembled house is suitable for a young child, preferably being younger than a teenager, and typically younger than eight years old, to enter and play therewithin. In the depicted embodiment, each panel 10 is approximately 300 mm by 300 mm by 15 mm depth or thickness, meaning that the house structure stands at around one metre tall; sufficient for a seated child to comfortably play within.

Using the modular toy-construction system 1000. any number of play areas could be constructed, with panels 10 being interconnected at angles in multip'es ol 45 and 60 degrees.

Whilst the modular toy-construction system depicted illustrates the versatility of the panel and panel connector alTangement, it can be challenging to arrange the panels in a flat, planar arrangement so as to form a floor area. A second embodiment ol the modular toy-construction system could therefore he conceived, and shall he descrihed hereafter. In the subsequent description. identical or like components are referred to using identical or like references, and repeated detailed descnpton is omitted for brevity.

A second embodiment of a panel 210 is illustrated in Figure 9. The main body 212 of the panel 210 is largely identical to that of the first embodiment, having identical pand slots 222, with the exception of there being a secondary engagement portion 230 being provided inwardly cut from each edge 220 of the main body 210. lii this instance, each secondary engagement portion 230 is a trapczoida slot 232 formed such that the slot 232 diverges into the main body 212.

The panel connector 218 is shown in more detail in Figure 10. The perimeter 228 is identical to that of the first embodiment, but there is also provided a secondary accepting portion 234 in the main body 224 of the panel connector 218, into which a secondary panel connector 236 can he stowed. In the present embodiment, the secondary accepting portion 234 is preferably an aperture cut through the main body 224 of the panel connector 218 which is complementarily shaped to the secondary panel connector 236. It will be appreciated, however, that the secondary accepting portion could he cut to any relevant shape, provided that there is a form of complementary engagement with the secondary panel connector. Although an aperture is preferred, any suitable opening can be utilised, such as a bottomed recess.

The secondary panel connector 236 has a profile which is shaped as two abutting trapeLia 238. so as to form an overall hourglass shape. Each trapezium 238 is complementarily engagable with one secondary engagement portion 230 of the panel 210, and such a connection is shown in Figure 11. Once engaged, die divergent sides of the secondary engagement portion 230 provide a means of retaining the secondary panel connector 236 with the panel 210. Two such panels 210 can then be connected in a plane. with the secondary panel connector 236 also lying in the same plane. This allows a flat floor portion to he constructcd by the child. such as that shown in the modular toy-construction system 2000 of Figure 12, which cannot otherwise be achieved with the perpendicular primary panel connectors 18, 118, 218.

A third embodiment of a panel 310 is shown in Figure 13, and illustrates an alternative means by which the main hodies 312 of adjacent panels may he interconnected. This particular panel 310 has a secondary engagement portion 330 which can complemcntarily engage with the panel connector 318 of the panel 310, rather than a specific secondary connector. The secondary engagement portion 330 is a semi-circular recess cut into an edge 320 of the main body 312 having a complementary sun-like shape to the panel connector 318, a plurality of projections 332 extending from the recess which complementarily engages with the connector slots 326 of the panel connector 318. A single recess in one edge 320 is shown in the panel 310 ol Figure 13, hut there could readily he a recess in any number of the edges 320 of the panel.

Adjacent panels 310 may then be connected to one another in a modular toy-construction system, a third embodiment of which is shown in Figure 14 at reference 3000. Positioning the recesses of the adjacent panels 310 next to one another will form a full sun-like engagement area for a panel connector 318. When a panel connector 318 is positioned within the recesses, the interengagemcnt of the connector slots 326 and projections 332 prevents undesirable separation of the two panels 310.

When not in use, the panel connectors 318 may then be stowed again in the connector storage portion 314.

The previously described embodiments of the modular toy-construction system are capable of arrangement into numerous varied play area configurations for children via slotted engagement of the panel connectors with the main bodies of the respective panels. However, with such slotted engagement, there is always the possibility of facile ejection ol adjacent pands from engagement, since the slots are entirely rectilinear, with the exception of those engageable with the secondary panel connectors.

A fourth embodiment of the modular toy-construction system 4000 is therefore shown in Figure 15. In this embodiment, each panel 410 has a main hody 412 within which are cut a plurality of connector engagement portions 414. which are shown here as having two components: a first engagement slot 440 which has a keyway. in this case T-shaped, profile cut inwardly and perpendicularly from an edge 420 of the main body, thereby providing a slot having a narrower opening at the edge 420; and a second engagement aperture 442, spaced-apart from the engagement slot 440 away from the edge 420. The narrowing of the engagement. slot 440 thereby forms two opposing abutment portions 444.

The panel connector 418 is again preferably disciform, having a main body 424 which has a plurality of panel slots 426 therein. These panel slots 426 are T-shaped, similarly to the engagement slots 440 of the panel 410, and therefore are narrowed at their open ends. Equivalently to the engagement slots 440, the panel slots 426 thereby form two opposing gripping portions 446, analogous to the abutment portions 444 described above. Whilst four such panel slots 426 are shown, each separated by 90 degrees, it will be evident that any number could be provided in any angular arrangement.

The interconnection of adjacent panels 410 using the panel connectors 418 can be most readily seen in the cross-section of a Figure 16. The panel slots 426 and engagement slots 440 are brought into engagement with one another, such that the main bodies 412, 424 of the panel 410 and panel connector 418 are perpendicularly arranged. Pushing the panel connector 418 as far into engagement with the panel 410 as possible will result in the gripping portions 440 coming into physical communication with the engagement apertures 442. The abutment portions 444 will also physically press against the outer surfaces of the panel connectors 418.

This gripping and abutment results in a stronger interengagement between the panel 410 and the panel connector 418, providing a retaining means capable of limiting the separation of adjacent connected panels 410, thereby preventing accidental dislocation of panels 410. This allows more complex structures to he constructed using the modular toy-construction system 4000, such as that shown in Figure 17, without fear of the panels 410 disengaging from one another.

A further modification of the fourth embodiment of the modular toy-construction system 4000 can he seen in Figure 18, wherein a plurality of secondary panel connectors 436 are provided to pernilt planar connection of panels 410. Each secondary panel connector 436 is capable of engaging with the engagement slots 440 of the panels 410, having an H-shaped profile, with the abutment portions 444 then retaining the panels 410 adjacent one another. As previously stated however, the secondary panel connector, and therefore engagement slot, could have any appropriate shape to permit releasable connection of panels to one another in a planar fashion.

Whilst the above-described panels are readily connected to one another, it will be appreciated that the provision of an aperture through the main body of the panel is visually unappealing. There are ways around this prohlcni; for example, the opening could be provided as a bottomed recess, such that there is a back wall to the opening on one side. The panel connector could still be accepted into this opening for stowing, but a user would not he able to see through each panel. This is one possible solution.

Alternatively, and as shown in Figure 19 and Figure 20, the connector storage portion 414 can be used to the user's advantage. In this particular arrangement of the fourth embodiment of the modular toy-construction system 4000. an adornment 448, 548 is provided which can he connected to a pand 410.

The adornment 448 as shown in Figure 19 comprises a main body 450 and a connector element 452 attached to the main body 450. In this emhodiment, the main hody 450 is a laminar plate, having a matching outline to the panel 410. This plate may be the same size as a panel 410, as shown in Figure 19, or may be slightly oversized, as in Figure 20, such that adjacent adornments 548 abut one another. The plate may be entirely or in part magnetic to enable a child to releasably attach magnetic play and/or decorative items, such as characters, images of bricks, windows, climbing roses, ivy, animals, and such like, thus enabling customisation and modularity.

The connector element 452 is complementarily sized and shaped so as to be engagable with a connector storage portion 414 of a panel 410. h this respect, the connector element 452 is essentially a panel connector which has been affixed. releasably or otherwise, to the main body 450 of the adornment 448.

Typically there will he a decorative portion 554. as shown in Figure 20, as part of the adornment 548 which will generally be an outwardly facing surface of the main body.

but could just as easily be an outwardly facing surface of the connector element.

Alternatively or additionally, and as illustrated in Figure 19, the adornment 448 could include a functional portion 456, which provides some form of functionality to the adornment 448.

The depicted embodiments in Figures 19 and 20 respectively show functional and decorative portions 456, 554 of the adornment 448. 548. The functional portion 456 of the adornment 448 in the example shown in Figure 19 is a wipe-clean drawing surface akin to a whiteboard or blackboard/chalkboard surface, hut it is anticipated that another likely functional portion will be a lighting element having an integrated power source such as a battery, so as to provide illumination for the modular toy-construction system 4000. Other functional or decorative ponions or options can be included or considered, such as including an attachmcnt for a mobile computing dcvicc. such as a tablet computer, a table or shelf extending from the panel, one or more magnetic portions as mentioned above, and/or a minored surface, for examp'e.

The decorative portion 554 of an adornment 548 will primarily serve the function of altering the overall appearance of the whole or part of the modular toy-construction system 4000. As shown in Figure 20, a brickwork effect is provided on the main body 550 of the adornment 548, and the effect can be created so as to be contiguous across a plurality of adornments 548 to achieve the wall-like effect illustrated.

in use, an adornment 448 will be connected to a panel 410 by engaging the connector element 454 with the connector storage portion 414. The complementary engagement of the two will ensure that the adornment 448 does not become separated from the panel 410 in use.

As shown in Figures 19 and 20, the adornment 448 would typically be connected to the main body 412 of a panel 410 prior to the engagement of any associated panel connectors 418. In this way, the main body 450 of the adornment 448 will be retained by (lie in use panel connectors 418 in addition to the engagement between die connector element 452 and the connector storage portion 414.

The modular toy-construction system 4000 of Figure 20 also utilises a fifth embodiment of panel connector 518 which will be described in more detail in connection with the fifth embodiment of the modular toy-construction system 5000 as shown in Figure 21.

The modular toy-construction system 5000 includes a plurality of panels 410 which can he interconnected in a planar fashion using a plurality of secondary panel connectors 536. These secondary panel connectors 536 are essentially two of the H-shaped secondary panel connectors of the fourth embodiment of the modular constructions system 4000 which are interconnected by a connecting member. This gives each secondary panel connector 536 a profile such that there is an elongate central portion 558 from which are laterally disposed a plurality of T-shaped projections 560, spaced-apart so as to be able to engage with corresponding the engagement slots 440 of apanel4l0.

The central portion 558 has a width which is equivalent to the depth of a panel 410, and therefore the in use secondary panel connectors 536 are able to space panels 410 apart from one another such that a further panel 410 may be attached perpendicular to the first panel 410 edge-to-edge without leaving gaps between panels 410 in a floor-style layout such as that shown in Figure 21.

The fifth embodiment of the panel connector 518 helps to achieve this goal. The connector 518 has a main body 528 which is semi-circular in profile, such that there is a flat diametric edge 562 which can readily rest on a flat surface with the main body 528 pointing upwardly. In the diametric edge 562 are cut two retaining slots 564 to define two radially outermost plugs 566, and a connector slot 526 is cut into the midpoint of the circumference of the semi-circle of the main body 528.

In use, a plug 566 of the panel connector 518 can engage with a panel slot of the panel 410, which in this instance involves the main extent of the diametric edge 562 engaging with the engagement slot 440. The portion of the main body 412 which is between the engagement slot and aperture 440, 442 is therefore accepted into the retaining slot 564, thereby creating multiple points of engagement between die panel connector 518 and the panel 410. This ensures secure retention of the panel connector 518 with respect to the panel 410.

If the panel connector 518 is connected in this fashion, then the diametric edge 562 of the connector 518 will be flush with one face of the panel 410 to which it is connected.

This allows the connector 518 to he uscd as part of a planar arrangement, for example, as part of a floor mat, such as that shown in Figure 20.

When the panel connector 518 is engaged in such a fashion, the connector slot 526 will be oriented so as to be vertical, and a panel 410 can be connected therein so as to be arranged perpendicularly with respect to the first panel 410. This allows complex, stable structures, again, such as that shown in Figure 20, to he constructcd.

It will he appreciated that the nature of the present invention is that the construction system is a modular one, and therefore any number of compatible components could readily be incorporated within the scope of the invention.

In particular, it is noted that whilst the embodiments shown use panels which are square in profile, any panel shapc could be considercd or incorporated without deviating from the invention as claimed. Similarly, circular and semi-circular panel connectors are primarily shown, but square. triangular or polyhedral connectors could just as easily be created, and it would also he relatively simple to extend the arangenient to three-dimensions, and provide a spherical or similar connector.

It is therefore possible to provide a modular toy-construction system which utilises interconnectable panels, with adjacent panels being connectable using panel connectors which are stowably receivable into the main bodies of the panels.

A storage volume of the modular toy-construction system can thus be reduced by locating one or more of inter-panel connectors when not in use within the body of the panel. By thereby becoming coplanar or substantially coplanar, flat packing with fewer loose parts is achieved.

Further beneficially, a volume of material required for the modular toy-construction system is signilicantly reduced by lorming one or more of the inter-panel connectors from the body of one or more of the panels. The connector is then advantageously released, prised or popped out' of the panel to enable engagement between two neighbouring panels.

Furthermore, a variety of complementarily engagable components can be provided to enhance the system. In particular. decorative or functiona' adornment panels or objects can be incorporated into the system. the means of engagement being provided by the same connector storage portions of the panels into which the panel connectors may be ID stowed.

The words comprises/comprising' arid the words having/including' when used herein with reference to the present invention are used to specify the prcsence of stated features, integers, steps or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments. may a'so he provided in combination in a single embodimcnt. Conversely, various features of thc invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment. may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination.

The embodiments described above are provided by way of examples only, and various other modifications will he apparent to persons skilled in the fie'd without departing from thc scope of the invention herein describcd and defined.

Claims

Claims 1. A panel for a modular toy-construction system for a child, the panel comprising: a main body having a connector storage portion inwardly spaced from a perimeter edge of the main body; and an engagement means for in use releasably interconnecting the panel to an adjacent panel, the engagement means including a panel connector for interengaging neighbouring panels; wherein the panel connector is stowably engagable with the connector storage portion when not in use.
2. A panel as claimed in claim 1, wherein the panel connector is or is substantially flush with the main body of the panel when engaged with the connector storage portion.
3. A panel as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the connector storage portion is an aperture in the main body of the panel.
4. A panel as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3. wherein the connector storage portion is complementarily shaped so as to receive the panel connector as a tight fit.
5. A panel as claimed in any one of claims I to 4, wherein the main body of the panel is or is substantially planar.
6. A panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the main body has or substantially has a square profile.
7. A panel as daimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel is spongiform.
8. A panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel connector includes a plurality of engagement portions capable of engaging with the panel.
9. A panel as claimed in claim 8, wherein each engagement portion is a slot engagable with the panel.
10. A panel as claimed in claim 9. wherein the panel connector is disciform. each slot extending radially to the circumference ol the panel connector.
11. A panel as claimed in claim 10, wherein the slots of the panel connector are equi-angularly positioned around the circumference of the panel connector.
12. A panel as claimed in claim 10, wherein the slots of the panel connector are non-equi-angularly positioned around the circumference of the panel connector.
13. A panel as claimed in any one of claim 10 to 12, wherein at least two slots of the panel connector have an angular separation of 45 degrees.
14. A panel as claimed in any one of claim 10 to 13, wherein at least two slots of the panel connector have an angular separation of 60 degrees.
15. A panel as claimed in any one of claim 10 to 14. wherein at least two slots of the panel connector have an angular separation of 90 degrees.
16. A panel as daimed in any one of claims 8 to 15. wherein the engagement means further comprises at least one complementary engagement portion on the main body of the panel engagable with one engagement portion of the panel connector.
17. A panel as claimed in claim 16, wherein the or each compkmentary engagement 1 5 portion is a slot.
18. A panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the engagement nieans further comprises a retaining means for securing the panel and panel connector in engagement with one another.
19. A panel as claimed in claim 18, wherein the panel connector includes a plurality of slots capable of engaging with the panel, the retaining means including a gripping portion at an open end of each slot capable of gripping the panel.
20. A panel as claimed in claim 19, wherein the main body has a receiving portion complementarily shaped so as to be gripped by the gripping portion of the retaining means.
21. A panel as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel connector further comprises a secondary accepting portion and a secondary panel connector engagable with the secondary accepting portion, the secondary panel connector being stowably engagable with the secondary accepting portion when not in use.
22. A panel as claimed in claim 21, wherein the secondary accepting portion is an aperture through the panel connector.
23. A panel as claimed in claim 21 or claim 22. wherein the panel further comprises a secondary engagement portion on the main body engagable with the secondary panel connector.
24. A panel substantially as hereinhefore described, with relerence to Figures 1 to 8.Figures 9 to 12. Figures 13 and 14. Figures 15 to 19. and Figures 20 and 21 of the accompanying drawings.
25. A modular toy-construction system for a child comprising a plurality of panels as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein adjacent panels are interconnectable using at least the panel connectors.
26. A modular constructions system substantially as hereinbefore described, with reference to Figures 6 and 8, Figure 12, Figure 14, Figures 15 to 19 and Figures 201 and 21 of the accompanying drawings.
27. A method of stowing a panel connector for a modular toy-construction system as claimed in claim 25 or claim 26, the method comprising the step of inserting the panel connector into the connector storage portion of a panel of the system such that a volumetric extent of the panel is unchanged.
28. An adornment for a modular toy-construction system as claimed in claim 25 or claim 26, the adornment comprising a main body and a connection element, wherein the connection element is releasahly engagable with a connector storage portion of a panel of the system.
29. An adornment as claimed in claim 28, wherein the connection element is complementarily shaped to the connector storage portion.
30. An adornment as claimed in claim 28 or claim 29, wherein the main body includes a decorative portion which is visible once the adornment is connected to a panel.
31. An adornment as claimed in any one of claims 28 to 30. wherein the connection element includes a decorative portion which is visible once die adornment is connected to a panel.
32. An adornment as claimed in any one of claims 28 to 31, wherein the main body is a panel.
33. An adornment as claimed in claim 32. wherein the main body is engagable with panel connectors of the modular toy-construction system.
34. An adornment as claimed in any one of claims 28 to 33, further comprising a functional clcment.
35. An adornment as claimed in claim 34. wherein the functional element includes a wipe-clean drawing surfacc.
36. An adornment as claimed in claim 34 or claim 35, wherein the functional element includes a hghting element.
37. An adornment substantially as hereinbefore described, with reference to Figure 19 aM Figure 20 of thc accompanying drawings.
38. A method of decorating a modular toy-construction system as claimed in claim 25 or claim 26, the method comprising thc stcps inserting the connection element of m adornment as claimed in any one of claims 28 to 37 into the connector storage portion of a panel of the modular toy-construction system, such that the appearance and/or functionality of the modu'ar toy-construction system is altered.
39. A method of rcducing a storagc volume of a modular toy-construction system as claimed in claim 25 or claim 26. the method comprising the step of locating an inter-panel connector when not in use within the body of a panel of the modular toy-construction system, so as to he coplanar or substantially cop'anar therewith.
40. A method of reducing a volume of material required for a modular icy-construction system as claimed in claim 25 or claim 26, the method comprising the step of lorming an inter-panel connector rem the body of a panel ol the modular toy-construction system, whereby the inter-panel connector is releasable from the body to enable engagement between two neighbouring panels.