KR20040093366A - Construction toy set having low insertion force connecting bodies - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention is formed of elastic materials of various shapes, such as injection plastic or other elastic materials. The connecting body generally forms a plurality of inner extension slots that respectively form a receiving mechanism at the edges of the plurality of flat plate members to which they are connected. The plate member is assembled to form a much more complicated structure using the connecting body to form an interconnect therebetween. In an alternative embodiment, the complex structure of the inner extension slot includes a flexible lip on each side of the slot with a relief slot adjacent to the lip. In another alternative embodiment, the linkage and plate member may be assembled to form a complex decorative face using special components such as a decorative head member with decorative face and leg parts.

Description

CONSTRUCTION TOY SET HAVING LOW INSERTION FORCE CONNECTING BODIES}

Assembly toy sets are known in the art and are very popular among children of various ages for many years. Early sets of assembled toys were very primitive, such as those made from wood elements connecting blocks, dowels, pins, pegs, and plates. However, over the years, newer, often more complex, injection molded plastic assembly toys sets have been developed. While the various assembled toy sets produced by those skilled in the art are virtually endless, all such assembled toy sets generally comprise a plurality of structural parts used in combination with various connecting mechanisms. Connecting mechanisms generally facilitate the assembly of a plurality of parts to various toys, such as large structures, designs or automobiles.

Building toy sets are often recommended and encouraged due to the many developmental activities that are encouraged by child development specialists. These developmental activities include the practice of structural analysis along with imagination and creativity as well as spatial relationships, cognition and manipulation of geometric forms. Not surprisingly, the long-term popularity and developmental benefits provided by assembled toy sets have stimulated toy field practitioners to develop a dizzying array of assembled toy sets. For example, U. S. Patent No. 3,827, 177, filed by Wengel, includes a plurality of generally planar parts that form a reduced mesh portion about their edges with a plurality of rather elastic connectors formed to form multiple radial slots. It describes the construction play (CONSTRUCTION GAME) with. The reduced mesh portion of the planar part is receivable in the radial slot of the resilient connector to provide for the interconnection and assembly of more complex structures.

U.S. Patent No. 3,564,758, filed by Willis, assembles a toy structure with connectors of various shapes, such as triangles, squares or octagons, each forming a plurality of inner extension slots to accommodate the planar structural components being inserted POLYGONAL BUILDING ELEMENTS WITH CONNECTORS THEREFOR FOR ASSEMBLING TOY STRUCTURES.

United States Patent 3,855,748, filed by Thomas, describes a PLAYGROUND ASSEMBLY SET that constitutes a plurality of planar parts of at least two different sizes. One part is generally larger than the other, and both parts form notches at strategically important locations. The connecting notches facilitate the connection between the parts to form a more complex structure.

United States Patent No. 4,789,370, filed by Ellefson, describes a device for connecting structural components of toy discs having a relatively thin flat structural member that forms an inner extending notch to accommodate the connecting thin flat components. STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS OF TOY DISKS) The notch forms an inner extending boss on both sides of the notch, while the thin flat body forms a void on each side of the slot. The space facilitates expansion of the inner portion of the slot to facilitate component insertion.

US Patent 4,334,868, filed by Levinlad, describes an assembly kit (CONSTRUCTIONAL KITS) with extension connectors and connecting panels. Extension connectors cannot be interconnected except that they are constructed for connecting panels. The extension connector has an extension with a longitudinal groove that securely holds the edge of the interconnect panel.

US Patent No. 5,061,219, filed by Glickman, describes an assembly toy having a plurality of hub-type connectors with a plurality of extension structural parts. The hub-shaped connector forms one or more gripping sockets that connect with the ends of the structural member to facilitate attachment therebetween, allowing the structural member to rotate about its major axis.

U. S. Patent No. 5,984, 756, filed by Krog, describes a TOY CONSTRUCTION SYSTEM having a plurality of extension building parts each having a receiving notch at its end. The assembly set further includes a plurality of interconnecting parts each supporting a plurality of outer extension head structures. The head structure is receptably manufactured in an end notch with a snap-fit attachment.

As an additional example of an assembled toy set, the US patent Des. 285,463, US Pat. No. 5,681,201, filed by Choi, and US Pat. No. 6,231,416B1, filed by Cleaver.

In a somewhat related field, practitioners are attempting to provide a variety of structures and display enclosures formed by the interconnection of panels. While these structures and the needs of display enclosures are often largely different from the corresponding needs and purposes of assembly toy sets, surprisingly similar structural components and connections are being developed in this field. For example, US Pat. No. 4,124,958, filed by ChiChe, discloses at least one partially spherical outer surface, at least one flat outer surface that intersects the partially spherical surface, a portion that is perpendicular to the flat surface and that accommodates the plate-like part member. SPHERICAL JUNCTION ELEMENT FOR COMPOSABLE DISPLAY STRUCTURES Having a body forming at least one slot formed on a spherical surface.

United States Patent Des. Applied by Klaric. 277,727 describes a CONSTRUCTION JOINT with generally spheres forming a plurality of inner extending radial slots. The body forms an axial passage generally parallel to the slot and extends through the major diameter of the sphere.

U.S. Patent No. 3,687,500, filed by Silvius, describes a CONNECTING CONSTRUCTION FOR SHEET MEMBERS for use in interconnecting mutually perpendicular materials. The connector has a small flat component that forms an inner slot at 90 ° intervals. Each connector may be formed from one piece plate of flexible and deformable rigid material, or may have one or more plates of flexible material between clamping plates of rigid material.

United States Patent No. 4,365,454, filed by Davis, discloses a plurality of flat bodies having recesses formed at their edges with a central hinge connection member having opposing planar portions for securing recesses to provide an interconnect between the flat bodies. Describes the CONSTRUCTION SYSTEM.

US Pat. No. 6,004,182, filed by Pasin, describes a TEMPORARY STRUCTURE formed of a plurality of panels each having a rod shape along a certain edge thereof. The plurality of extension bonding devices form slots for receiving the support rods for the panel. The connector is used to receive each end of the frame member in an interconnection manner to form a connection structure of the closure.

U.S. Patent 5,647,181, filed by Hunts, and U.S. Patent 5,470,139, filed by Hsiao, describe a multi-slot structure connector used to form a connection structure with a plurality of planar components, respectively.

U.S. Patent 5,472,365, filed by Angle, U.S. Patent 4,557,091, filed by Auer, U.S. Patent 1,818,404, filed by Kaufman, U.S. Patent 6,283,456, filed by Benz et al. US Pat. No. 5,222,902, filed by Piersch, and US Pat. No. 4,291,512, filed by Walton, describe additional structural components for manufacturing various structures, such as enclosures or display cases.

Finally, US Pat. No. 5,357,761, filed by Schauer, and US Pat. No. 6,176,953B1, filed by Landreth et al., Respectively, describe a method of bonding plastic materials.

Substantial development of the assembly toy set as described above and associated structures known in other fields are also described, but assembly toys on the one hand are simple and easy to assemble or dismantle, on the other hand competition of strength and rigidity of the assembly structure. It is limited by the requirements to meet specific requirements. Most importantly, the assembled toy set is in fact designed to provide features that are designed to compromise between these competitive requirements. The requirements for ease and simplicity of assembly or disassembly are of particular importance in a set of assembled toys intended for use by children.

Therefore, there is always a constant demand in the art for an improved set of assembled toys. More particular needs arise in the assembly toy set having the ease of assembly or disassembly with the safety and strength of the structure to be manufactured.

The present invention generally relates to a set of assembled toys, in particular connecting parts used therein.

1 illustrates a perspective view of a spherical connector constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a plan view of the spherical connector of FIG. 1.

3 illustrates a side view of the spherical connector of the drawing.

4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the spherical connector of FIG. 2 taken along line 2-2.

5 illustrates a perspective view of another spherical connector constructed in accordance with the present invention.

6 illustrates a perspective view of an elongated rod constructed in accordance with the present invention.

7 illustrates a perspective view of another spherical connector constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a plan view of the spherical connector shown in FIG. 7.

9 illustrates a side view of the spherical connector of FIG. 7.

10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the spherical connector of FIG. 8 taken along lines 10-10.

Figure 11 illustrates a top view of yet another selective spherical connector constructed in accordance with the present invention.

12 illustrates a side view of the spherical connector of FIG. 11.

Figure 13 illustrates another selective spherical connector constructed in accordance with the present invention.

14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the spherical connector of FIG. 13 taken along line 14-14.

Figure 15 illustrates a perspective view of a cubic connector constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates a plan view of the connecting body of FIG. 15.

17 illustrates a side view of the connector of FIG. 15.

18 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the cube shown in FIG. 16 taken along lines 18-18.

19 illustrates a perspective view of a selective cubic connector constructed in accordance with the present invention.

20 illustrates a plan view of the connector of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 illustrates a side view of the connector of FIG. 19.

FIG. 22 illustrates a cross sectional view of the connector of FIG. 20 taken along lines 22-22. FIG.

Figure 23 illustrates a perspective view of another alternative linker constructed in accordance with the present invention.

24 illustrates a plan view of the connecting body shown in FIG. 23.

25 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connector shown in FIG. 24 taken along lines 25-25.

Figure 26 illustrates a perspective view of a cylindrical linkage constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 27 illustrates a plan view of the connecting body shown in FIG. 26.

Figure 28 illustrates a perspective view of a connecting body constructed in accordance with the present invention and having a generally nondescript shape.

29 illustrates a plan view of an optional generally cylindrical connector constructed in accordance with the present invention.

30 illustrates a top view of a triangular connector constructed in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 31 illustrates a plan view of an octagonal connector constructed in accordance with the present invention.

32 illustrates a perspective view of a generally rectangular flat plate constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 33 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the plate shown in FIG. 32 taken along lines 33-33.

Figure 34 illustrates a generally circular flat plate constructed in accordance with the present invention.

35 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the circular plate of FIG. 34 taken along lines 35-35.

Figure 36 illustrates a perspective view of an optional generally rectangular plate constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 37 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the plate shown in FIG. 36 taken along lines 37-37.

Figure 38 illustrates a perspective view of a generally rectangular structural component constructed in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 39 illustrates a perspective view of a generally circular structural component constructed in accordance with the present invention.

40 illustrates a perspective view of a circular segment part constructed in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 41 illustrates a plan view of a flower-petal constructed in accordance with the present invention.

42 illustrates a top view of a somewhat elliptical part constructed in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 43 illustrates a top view of a tear-dropped shaped component constructed in accordance with the present invention.

44 illustrates a top view of a triangular part constructed in accordance with the present invention.

45 illustrates a top view of an arm shaped component constructed in accordance with the present invention.

46 illustrates a plan view of a leg-shaped component constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 47 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the component shown in FIG. 40 taken along lines 47-47.

Figure 48 illustrates a perspective view of a select plate member constructed in accordance with the present invention and generally forming a semi-cylindrical shape.

Figure 49 illustrates a perspective view of another select plate member constructed in accordance with the present invention to form a quarter cylindrical shape.

50 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a connecting member and plate member constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 51 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the connector and plate member shown in FIG. 50 in accordance with a typical insertion of the plate member into the connector.

Figure 52 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a select plate member inserted into a connected body constructed in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 53 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment plate member inserted into a linkage constructed in accordance with the present invention.

54 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the plate member and optional embodiment linkage of the present invention prior to insertion.

FIG. 55 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of FIG. 54 following insertion of the plate member into the linkage. FIG.

56 illustrates a perspective view of a general complex structure manufactured using the assembled toy set of the present invention.

Figure 57 illustrates a perspective assembled view of a general shape made and constructed in accordance with the assembled toy set of the present invention.

FIG. 58 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the head and the connecting sphere of the shape formed in FIG. 57. FIG.

Figure 59 illustrates a perspective view of an assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention for forming a mobile.

60 illustrates a perspective view of an assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention for forming a jewelery.

It is therefore a general object of the present invention to provide an improved set of assembled toys. A more specific object of the present invention is in particular to provide an improved set of assembled toys adapted for use by children. It is another specific object of the present invention to provide an improved assembly toy set that facilitates easy insertion or low insertion between a structural component and a connecting component, while providing a relatively rigid and stable fabricated structure. .

According to the present invention, a plurality of connecting bodies each extending inward from the outer surface and the outer surface, respectively forming a three-dimensional body having a plurality of slots respectively terminated in the body of the extended undercut portion, and opposing surfaces and the slots. A plurality of generally flat plate members each having an outer edge having a size configured to be inserted into a selected one of the plurality of flat plate members, wherein the body is formed of an elastic material, so that the slot has any one of the edges connected to the plate member. It is elastically deformed when it is inserted into one of the slots for securing the assembly, the assembly of the toy set is provided, characterized in that the connection of the plate member is connected by the connecting body to form a toy structure.

According to another optional embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of connecting bodies each extending inward from the outer surface and inward from the outer surface, each forming a three-dimensional body having a plurality of slots respectively terminated in the body of the extended undercut portion, A plurality of generally flat plate members each having an opposite face and an outer edge having a size configured to be inserted into a selected one of said slots, a head member having an interior hollow, a passageway, and a face portion for receiving a portion of a selected one of said linkages, And an extension rod sized to be secured in the passage, wherein the body is formed of an elastic material, so that the slot can be inserted into one of the slots to which one of the edges secures the connection to the plate member. When elastically deformed, the connection of the plate member to form a toy structure Connected to the connecting body, the connecting body is stacked vertically aligned with the rod passing through the passage, and the head member is received at the top of the connecting body.

According to another alternative embodiment of the invention, a plurality of connecting bodies each forming a three-dimensional body having an outer surface and a plurality of slots each extending inwardly from the outer surface, each of the slots being in the expansion undercut the body Terminated within, the slot further comprises a pair of flexible lips each having an inner surface forming a pair of relief slots adjacent to each of the interior and flexible lips of the slot, the relief slots of the lip A tolerance is provided between the lip and the periphery of the body to facilitate flexing, the plurality of generally flat plate members each having opposing surfaces and outer edges, the edges being size configured to be inserted into a selected one of the slots Wherein the body has one of the edges adapted to secure the connection to the plate member. When inserted into one of the slots, formed of an elastic material to elastically deform by flexing of the lip, the plate member being connected to the connecting body to form a toy structure Provide a set.

Briefly, FIGS. 1 to 58, which describe various parts of the assembled toy set of the present invention alone and in combination, are described in detail below. The assembled toy set of the present invention generally includes a plurality of somewhat elastic, variously shaped connectors, each forming one or more slots for receiving planar parts and members. The connecting body may be manufactured in a shape that is not in fact a solid shape and is shown as an example of forming the spherical shapes of FIGS. In addition, rectangular and cubic shaped connectors are shown by way of example in FIGS. 15 to 25, and cylindrical shaped connectors are shown in FIGS. 26, 27 and 29. A connector of generally non-characteristic shape is also shown by way of example in FIG. 28. A connector forming a triangular prism is shown in FIG. 30, and a connector forming an octagonal prism is shown in FIG. 31. Various examples of differently shaped connecting plates and members are shown in FIGS. 32-47, and curved members and plates are shown in FIGS. 48 and 49.

The plates and members are joined to form more elaborate structures using linkages. Basic assembly is provided by inserting the edge of the plate or member into the connector slot. New gripping mechanisms operable within the edges of the plate and planar members and in the connector slots simultaneously provide for ease of insertion and reliable attachment in accordance with an important example of the present invention. Examples of insertion and attachment mechanisms are provided in FIGS. 50-55. FIG. 56 shows a somewhat elaborate example constructed and assembled using the assembled toy set of the present invention, and FIGS. 57 and 58 illustrate representative examples of a toy-shaped structure constructed and assembled using the assembled toy set of the present invention. .

More specifically, FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a spherical shaped connector constructed in accordance with the invention, the entirety of which is referred to by reference numeral 10. The connecting body 10 is preferably formed of a somewhat elastic material and forms the outer surface 11 together with the passage 12. The passage 12 extends through the connector 10 and forms the axis 17 of the spherical connector 10. The connecting body 10 further extends inwardly from the surface 11 and further forms a slot 13 therein which terminates at an oversized undercut portion 15. The connecting body 10 further forms a second slot 14, which is located opposite from the slot 13 and extends inwardly from the surface 11. The undercut 16 is formed in the inner portion of the slot 14. According to the manufacturing method described below, the slots 13 and 14 are used to securely insert and receive the edge of the connecting plate such as the plate 310 shown in FIG. Undercuts 15, 16 cooperate during plate insertion to provide flexibility of the connector 10 for receiving plate insertion. The manufacturing method of the assembly set of the present invention is described in more detail below with reference to Figs. However, here, the elastic member and the undercut portions 15, 16, in which the connecting member 10 is formed together with the structure of the slots 13, 14, cooperate to facilitate the secure attachment with ease of insertion and minimal insertion force. It is enough to explain. The passage 12 is also used to receive an extension rod such as rod 30 shown in FIG. 6 to provide a more structural manufacturing receiving component such as the fabricated toy shape 430 shown in FIG.

2 illustrates a plan view of a connecting body 10 showing a spherical outer surface 11 having a passage 12 extending downwardly therethrough. The connecting body 10 further forms a pair of opposing inner extension slots 13, 14 terminating at the inner undercut portions 15, 16, respectively.

3 illustrates a side view of the connector 10 showing the spherical surface 11 and the slot 13 with the undercut 15 formed therein.

4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connector 10 taken along line 4-4 in FIG. As noted above, the linkage 10 forms a generally spherical outer surface and passage 12 extending along the major axis 17 of the linkage. In a preferred manufacture of the invention, the connector 10 shows a single injected solid body of material. The material selected for the connector 10 is selected to provide sufficient rigidity and strength to support a portion of the assembly structure of the connector 10 that forms the same portion as the assembly structure shown in FIG. 56. In addition, the connector 10 material to be produced preferably has sufficient elasticity to provide the necessary modifications described above to receive the insertion plate member in the connector slot.

5 illustrates a perspective view of a selection spherical connector in which the entirety is referred to by reference numeral 20. The connector 20 is different from the connector 10 in that the slots 13 and 14 are removed. Thus, the connecting body 20 provides a generally continuous outer surface 21 with an axial passage 22 formed extending through the main shaft 23. The functional operation of the connector, such as the connector 20, is limited to inserting a suitable component, such as the rod 30 (see FIG. 6), into or through the passage 22.

6 illustrates a perspective view of an extended generally cylindrical rod 30 having ends 31, 32. The rod 30 is used in the assembled toy set of the present invention to assemble a portion of the structure in the manner described below in FIG. 57.

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of another alternative manufacture of the connecting body, constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 40. The connector 40 is similar to the connector 10 except that four radially extending slots are installed rather than the two opposing slots shown in the connector 10. Thus, the linkage 40 forms a passage 42 with a generally spherical outer surface 41 extending through the linkage. The plurality of radially extending slots 43, 44, 45, 46 extend inwardly from the spherical surface 41 and terminate at the expanding undercut portions 47, 48, 49, 50, respectively. In addition, the manufacture of the connecting body 40 is preferably formed of a somewhat elastic material, such as injection plastic. Operation of slots 43-46 is used to accommodate one or more planar members or plates for assembly of more complex structures. The passage 42 serves the purpose of receiving all or part of a cylindrical member, such as rod 30 (see FIG. 6).

FIG. 8 illustrates a plan view of the connecting body 40 showing the spherical surface 41 with the inner extending slots 43 to 46 respectively forming the expanding undercut portions 47 to 50, respectively. The passage 42 extends through the linkage 40.

9 illustrates a side view of the connector body 40 showing a spherical outer shape 41 and an inner extension slot 43. The slot 43 terminates in the expansion undercut portion 47.

FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connector 40 taken along lines 10-10 in FIG. 8. As described above, the connector 40 generally has a passage 42 extending through the connector as a whole. A spherical outer surface 41 is formed. The linkage 40 further forms a plurality of inner extension slots, such as the slots 44, 46 which terminate in sequence in the expansion undercuts 48, 50.

By comparing the linker 40 and the linker 10 (see FIG. 1), the substantial difference between the linker is that the linker 40 accommodates all four insert plate members, It will be appreciated that it has the appropriate ability to receive a pair of plate members. However, in each case it can be clearly seen that the coupling mechanism is virtually the same and is a combination of the properties of the elasticity and strength of the material together with the physical structure of the slot and undercut portion.

FIG. 11 illustrates a top view of yet another alternative manufacture of the connecting body, referred to entirely by reference numeral 60. The connector 60 is similar to the connectors 10, 40 (see FIGS. 1 and 7) providing a generally spherical surface 61 and axial passages 62 extending throughout the connector. The connector 60 differs from the connectors 10, 40 described above in that there is a further improved slot structure. The slot structure installed in the connector 60 utilizes a new combination of undercuts and ribs to improve the gripping and strength characteristics of the connector. In addition, the connector 60 is somewhat rigid, such as injection plastic, and is preferably formed of a somewhat elastic material.

The linkage 60 includes a pair of opposing inner extension slots 63, 69 that terminate at the expansion undercuts 64, 70, respectively. The slot 63 also forms a pair of relief slots 65, 66 on both sides of the slot 63 combined with the slot 63 to form a pair of ribs 67, 68. Lips 67 and 68 together with undercut 64 cooperate with relief slots 65 and 66 to provide flexible attachment to the edge of the connecting plate in the manner described below in FIGS. 54 and 55. It is sufficient to explain here that since the relief slots 65, 66 are provided without deformation of the rest of the connecting body 60, the lips 67, 68 can be bent outwards.

Similarly, slot 69 terminates in expansion undercut 70 and includes relief slots 71 and 72 on each side of slot 69. As a result, a pair of flexible connecting lips 73 and 74 are formed. In addition, the ribs 73, 74 can be bent due to the presence of the relief slots 71, 72 without causing significant deformation of the rest of the connector 60. In addition, this coupling mechanism is explained in full detail below in FIG. 54 and FIG. However, it is sufficient to explain here that the edge portion of the plate member is inserted into one side 63 or 69 of the slot without deforming the rest of the connecting body 60. In other words, this means that the insertion of the plate member edge in the slot 63 does not affect the insertion force by the presence of the corresponding edge of the plate member in the slot 69. In this way, the insertion force of the slots 63 and 69 remains substantially uniform regardless of the presence of other plate members in the linkage. This is particularly important for connectors, such as the connector 80 shown in FIG. 13, which receive multiple plate members using multiple connectors.

12 illustrates a side view of the connector 60. To facilitate the manufacture of the connector body 60, the connector body is made of a pair of hemispherical hemispheres 75 and 76, which are formed separately and then connected along the seam 77. The hemispheres 75 and 76 can be connected using various known manufacturing methods. An example of such attachment is illustrated in FIG. 14, which illustrates a manufacturing method using sonic welding to fix a half body. Optionally, the hemispheres 75 and 76 may be connected using other manufacturing methods such as adhesive attachment. An important point about the present invention is generally the resulting form of spherical connectors. As described above, the linkage 60 forms a slot 63 that terminates in the expansion undercut 64. In addition, as described above, a pair of relief slots 65, 66 are formed on both sides of the slot 63 to make the flexible lips 67, 68.

Figure 13 illustrates a plan view of another alternative connecting body constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 80. The connector 80 generally forms a spherical outer surface 81 with a passage 85 extending downward through the connector 80. The connector 80 further forms a plurality of inner extension slots 86, 87, 88, 89. Slots 86-89 terminate at expansion undercuts 90-93, respectively. A pair of relief slots 94, 95 are formed on both sides of the slot 86 to form a pair of flexible lips 96, 97. Similarly, a pair of relief slots 98, 99 are formed on both sides of the slot 87 to form a pair of flexible lips 100, 101. A pair of relief slots 102, 103 are formed on each side of the slot 88 to form flexible lips 104, 105, and a pair of relief slots 106, 107 are flexible lips ( On each side of the slot 89 to form 108, 109.

As mentioned above, the connection mechanism provided by the connection of the inner extension slot, relief slot and flexible lip shown in the connector such as connector 80 is described in more detail below in FIGS. 54 and 55. However, as mentioned above, here, the provision of the flexible lip on each side of the connecting slot allows the flexing of the slot to accommodate the insertion of the edge of the plate member without causing deformation of the rest of the connecting body. It is enough to explain. Thus, the connecting body 80 generally retains its spherical shape whether or not one or more plate members are inserted into one or more connecting slots to produce a more complex structure. This further leads to the fact that the insertion force required for insertion of the edge of the plate member into the given slot remains relatively constant, regardless of whether the remaining slots are empty or already accommodated in the insertion plate member. It brings a very important advantage. It is accepted by children and provides a more reliable insertion force for the manufacturer of the assembled toy set of the present invention to accurately and consistently provide the desired insertion force characteristics for the connection and plate member.

FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connector 80 taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 13. As noted above, the connector 80 is generally spherical in shape and thus generally forms a spherical outer surface 81. Similar to the connector 60 described above in FIG. 12, the connector 80 forms a pair of generally symmetric hemispheres 82, 83, hemispherical portion. Hemispheres 82 and 83 face along suture 84 and are secured using ultrasonic welding or other assembly techniques. The hemispheres 82 form recesses 110, and the hemispheres 83 form bosses 111 of corresponding shapes. The boss 111 and the recess 110 are constructed and shaped to provide the seating shown in FIG. 14. Since ultrasonic welding is used to fix the hemispheres 82 and 83, an energy concentrator 112 manufactured according to conventional manufacturing techniques is formed on the boss 111 to facilitate this attachment. The remainder of the connector 80 includes a passage 85 extending through the entire connector with inner extension slots 87 and 89 terminating at the undercut portions 91 and 93, respectively.

FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of yet another optional connecting element constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 120. The connecting body 120 generally forms a cube 121, and the cube has a passage 122 extending downward through the entire cube 121. The cube 121 further forms a plurality of inner extension slots 123, 124, 125, and 126 which terminate at expansion undercuts 127, 128, 129, and 130, respectively. Slots 123-126 generally correspond to slots 43-46 of the linkage 40 (see FIG. 8). Thus, slots 123-126 are used to receive the edges of the plate member in the manner described in FIGS. 50-53. In addition, the passage 122 is used to receive an elongate cylindrical member, such as the rod 30 shown in FIG. In a preferred manufacture, the cube 121 is formed of a somewhat elastic rigid material, such as an injection plastic. Unlike the cubic shape of the cube 121, the connector 120 functions in much the same way as the spherical body described in detail above. In addition, a description of the use of a linker such as the linker 120 is described below in FIGS. 56 and 57.

16 illustrates a plan view of the connector 120. As discussed above, the connector body 120 generally forms a cube 121 formed of a suitable injection plastic or the like. In addition, as described above, the cube 121 forms the inner extension slots 123 to 126 respectively terminated in the expansion undercut portions 127 to 130. As discussed above, an extended undercut, such as undercuts 127-130, facilitates insertion of the edge of the plate member into slots 123-126. Basically, the expansion dimensions of the expansion undercuts 127-130 facilitate the flexing of the cube 121 such that the surface of the notches 123-126 are pressed outward by plate member insertion. In addition, as will be described in more detail below in FIGS. 50-53, the expanded dimensions of the undercut portion cooperate with various edge structures of the plate member to facilitate additional attachment and fixation.

17 illustrates a side view of the connector 120. As described above, the connector 120 includes a cube 121 preferably formed of an injection plastic material or the like forming a plurality of inner extending slots, such as the slot 123 shown in FIG. 17.

FIG. 18 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connector 120 taken along line 18-18 in FIG. 16. Since the connecting body 120 is generally described in the shape of a cube, it includes a cube 121 which is preferably formed of an injection plastic material or the like. The connection body 120 includes inner extension slots 124 and 126 which terminate at expansion undercut portions 128 and 130, respectively. In addition, the connector 120 includes a passage 122 extending through the cube 121. Recall that passage 122 is of a desired size to accommodate a portion of an extension rod, such as rod 30 shown in FIG.

Figure 19 illustrates a perspective view of yet another alternative connecting structure constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to at 140 in its entirety. The connector 140 is generally cuboidal in shape, and it is different from the connector 120 (see FIG. 15) that the plurality of inner extension slots formed therein correspond to the diagonal lines of the cube. More specifically, the connecting body 140 includes a cube 141 which is preferably formed of an injection plastic material or the like which forms the downwardly extending passage 142 therein. At the corners of the cube 141, a corresponding plurality of inner extending slots 143, 144, 145, 146 is formed. Slots 143-146 terminate at expansion undercuts 147, 148, 149, 150, respectively.

20 illustrates a plan view of the connector 140. As noted above, the linker 140 includes an injection plastic cube 141 having a downwardly extending passage 142 formed therein. A plurality of slots 143, 144, 145, 146 extend inward from each corner of the cube 141. Slots 143 to 146 terminate at expansion undercut portions 147 to 150, respectively. As described above, the cube 141 is preferably formed of a somewhat elastic injection plastic or the like.

21 illustrates a side view of a linker 140 having a cube 141 forming slots 143 therein. Slot 143 terminates at expansion undercut portion 147.

22 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connector 140 taken along line 22-22 of FIG. 20. As described above, the connecting body 140 forms a cube 141 which is preferably formed of an injection plastic elastic material or the like. The cube 141 forms a passage 142 extending therethrough with a plurality of inner extending slots such as the slots 144, 146. Slots 144 and 146 terminate at expansion undercut portions 148 and 150. Attachment of the edge of the plate member into the slot of the connector 140 is described below in FIGS. 50-53. Here, it is sufficient to explain that the elasticity of the cube 141, together with the structure of the slot extending inwardly and the extension undercut portion, facilitates this insertion and provides a fixing force on the insertion plate member.

FIG. 23 illustrates a perspective view of yet another optional connecting body constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to generally by 160. Connector 160 resembles the cube shape of connector 120 (see FIG. 15) with the addition of an improved slot structure. The connecting body 160 includes a cube 161 formed of half body parts 162 and 163. A plurality of inner extension slots 165, 166, 167, and 168 are formed in the cube 161. The structure of the slots 165-168 is described in detail below in FIG. 24. However, it is sufficient to explain that the slots 165-168 use an improved slot structure similar to that of the slots 86-89 of the older embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 13. This improved structure facilitates the insertion of the edge of the plate member into each slot without causing deformation of the rest of the cube 161.

24 illustrates a plan view of the connector 160. The connecting body 160 is formed with a half body 162, 163 (see FIG. 23) fixed by the method described with reference to FIG. 25. The connecting body 160 forms a passage 164 extending downward through the half bodies 162 and 163. In addition, the connector 160 forms a plurality of inner extension slots 165, 166, 167, and 168. Slots 165-168 terminate at expansion undercut portions 170-173, respectively. A pair of relief slots 175 and 176 are formed on each side of slot 165 to form flexible ribs 185 and 186. Similarly, a pair of relief slots 177, 178 are formed on each side of slot 166 to form flexible lips 187, 188. In a similar manner, one phase of relief slots 179, 180 are formed on each side of slot 167 to form flexible lips 221, 222, and a pair of relief slots 181, 182 is flexible. It is formed on each side of the slot 168 to form the ribs 223, 224. As a result, the structure of the connection body 160 functions in substantially the same manner as the connection body 80 described with reference to FIG. 13, and the connection body is formed at a plurality of edges of the plate member such as the plate member 310 shown in FIG. It is inserted into some or all of slots 165-168 without causing severe deformation of the remainder of 160. Operation of the flexible lip adjacent to each slot is described in detail below in FIGS. 54 and 55. However, it is sufficient to explain here that the pair of flexible lips in each slot can be flexed outward to receive the edge of the inserted plate member and to provide a retaining force thereon. This flexing of the flexible lip pair adjacent to each slot is important not to deform the rest of the connector 160.

FIG. 25 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the connector 160 taken along line 25-25 of FIG. 24. The connector 160 is formed with half bodies 162 and 163 connected along the common suture line 169 to form a cube. Half body 162 forms recess 183, and half body 163 is received therein to form boss 184 of a corresponding shape and size. The attachment between the halves 162, 163 is secured using other known attachment devices such as ultrasonic welding or adhesive or chemical bonding. Connector 160 forms a passage 164 extending therethrough with a plurality of inner extending slots, such as slots 166 and 168. Slots 166 and 168 terminate at expansion undercut portions 171 and 173 respectively. In the manufacture of the preferred linkage 160, the halves 162, 163 are made of an elastic material such as injection plastic or the like.

FIG. 26 illustrates a perspective view of yet another optional connecting body constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 190. The connecting body 190 generally includes a cylindrical body 191, which forms a passage 192 extending downward through the entire cylindrical body 191. In addition, the cylindrical body 191 forms a plurality of inner extension slots 193, 194, 195, and 196. Slots 193-196 terminate at expansion undercut portions 197-200, respectively. In the manufacture of the preferred linking body 190, the cylindrical body 191 is made of elastic injection plastic or the like.

27 illustrates a top view of the connector 190. As mentioned above, the connector 190 includes a general cylindrical body 191 forming a central passage 192 extending therethrough. The cylindrical body 191 further forms a plurality of inner extension slots 193, 194, 195, and 196. Slots 193-196 terminate at expansion undercut portions 197-200, respectively. In operation, one or more edges of the plate member, such as the plate member 310 shown in FIG. 32, are inserted into the slots 193-196. During this insertion, the cylindrical body 191 is slightly deformed in cooperation with the expansion undercut portions 197 to 200 to facilitate secure attachment of the connector 190 to the plate member.

Figure 28 illustrates a perspective view of yet another alternative manufacture of the connector, constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to at 210 in its entirety. The connector 210 includes a body 211 having a shape without the typical general features of forming a passage 212 extending therethrough. The main body 211 further forms a plurality of inner extension slots 213, 214, 215, and 216, which respectively form expansion undercut portions 217, 218, 219, and 220, respectively. The connector 210 functions in much the same way as the connector described above, and is provided to illustrate the ability of the present invention to accommodate virtually any shape of the connector.

Figure 29 illustrates a plan view of another alternative linkage fabrication constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 230. The connecting body 230 forms a cylindrical body 231 having a passage 232 extending therethrough. The connector 230 is similar to the connector 190 (see FIG. 26), but the main difference is the use of a flexible lip slot structure that accommodates the edge of a plate member or the like. More specifically, the connector 230 includes a plurality of inner extension slots 233, 234, 235, and 236 that terminate at respective expansion undercuts 237, 238, 239, and 240, respectively. A pair of relief slots 241, 242 are formed on each side of slot 233 to form flexible lips 265, 266. Similarly, connector 230 forms relief slots 243 and 244 on both sides of slot 234 to form flexible lips 267 and 268. Similarly, a pair of relief slots 245 and 246 are formed on each side of slot 235 to form flexible lips 306 and 307, and a pair of relief slots 247 and 248 are flexible. It is formed on each side of slot 236 to form ribs 308 and 309. Slots 233 through 236, along with corresponding flexible lip and relief slots, function in the manner described below in FIGS. 54 and 55 to accommodate and secure the edges of one or more plate members. As mentioned above, the importance of the structure of the flexible lip and relief slots of the connection block 230 is the provision of slot expansion during insertion of the edge of the plate member without modifying the rest of the connection block 230.

Figure 30 illustrates a plan view of another alternative connection block fabrication constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to at 250 in its entirety. The connection block 250 forms a triangular prism shape and includes a main body 251 having a passage 252 extending therethrough. The connection block 250 includes inner extension slots 253, 254, 255 which respectively terminate at expansion undercuts 256, 257, 258. A pair of relief slots 259 and 260 are formed on each side of the slot 253 to form a pair of flexible lips. Thus, a pair of relief slots 261, 262 are formed on each side of each slot 254 to provide a pair of flexible lips. Finally, a pair of relief slots 263 and 264 are formed on each side of slot 255 to provide a pair of flexible lips. The operation of the slots 253-255 is generally the same as the operation of the slot 168 shown in FIGS. 54 and 55.

FIG. 31 illustrates a top view of another alternative linking structure constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 270. Connector 270 includes an octahedron 271 having a central passage 272 extending therethrough. Each of the eight faces of the octahedron 271 supports a flexible rib slot structure that is generally identical to the structure mentioned, as shown in FIGS. 29 and 30. Accordingly, linkage 270 includes a plurality of inner extension slots 273, 274, 275, 276, 277, 278, 279, 280 that terminate at respective expansion undercut portions 281-288, respectively. A pair of relief slots 290, 291 are formed on each side of slot 273 to form flexible lips 335, 336, and a pair of relief slots 292, 293 are formed on flexible lips ( On each side of the slot 274 to form 337, 338. Similarly, a pair of relief slots 294 and 295 are formed on each side of the slot 275 to form a pair of flexible lips 339 and 349 and a pair of relief slots 296 and 297. ) Are formed on each side of the slot 276 to form a pair of flexible lips 353 and 354. A pair of relief slots 298 and 299 are formed on each side of slot 277 to form flexible lips 363 and 364, and a pair of relief slots 300 and 301 are flexible lips ( On each side of slot 278 to form 379, 380. A pair of relief slots 302, 303 is formed on each side of the slot 279 to form a pair of flexible lips 381, 382, and a pair of relief slots 304, 305 It is formed on each side of the slot 280 to form a pair of flexible ribs 383 and 384.

32, 34, and 36 illustrate perspective views of the example plate members 310, 320, 330. Plate members 310 and 330 generally form a square shape, and plate member 320 generally forms a circular shape. In addition, the plate members 310, 320, 330 provide examples of each exemplary selective edge structure of the edge structure that is easily used in the assembled toy set of the present invention in connection with the above-described connecting body. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, each of the illustrated edge structures may be of different shapes, such as the plate members of the various shapes shown in FIGS. 48 and 49 as well as the structures shown in FIGS. 38-46 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It can also be used in combination of plate members. Accordingly, the plate members of the various shapes shown in FIGS. 32, 34 and 36 as well as FIGS. 38 to 46 and 48 and 49 do not limit the possible shapes of the plate members used in the assembled toy set of the present invention. I can understand that.

More specifically, FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a plate member constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to generally by reference numeral 310. Plate member 310 is generally square and planar, forming a plurality of edges 311, 312, 313, 314.

33 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of plate member 310 taken along lines 33-33 of FIG. The plate member 310 includes an edge portion 313 having angled surfaces 314 and 316 on both sides thereof. In addition, a bead portion 315 is formed by the intersection of the angular surface 314 and the rest of the plate member 310. Face 316 forms an angle 317 with planar plate member 310. Angled surfaces 314 and 316 facilitate insertion of edge 313 into the connector slot in the manner described below in FIGS. 50-55. In particular, FIG. 52 shows the special characteristics of a plate manufactured in the manner shown for plate member 310.

34 illustrates a circular plate member, which is generally referred to by reference numeral 320. Plate member 320 is generally planar and forms an outer edge 321.

35 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of plate member 320 taken along line 35-35 of FIG. The plate member 320 forms an edge portion 321 and an angled surface 322 supporting the upwardly extending bead portion 323. The angled face 322 facilitates the insertion of the edge 321 into the connector slot, and the bead 323 facilitates the insertion of the fixing edge 321 within the connector slot or the like. 53 illustrates an example of insertion of a plate member such as plate member 320 into the connector slot below.

36 is a perspective view of a plate member constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 330. Plate member 330 is generally square and defines a plurality of edges 331, 332, 333, 334.

FIG. 37 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of plate member 330 taken along line 37-37 of FIG. 36. The plate member 330 defines a generally cylindrical edge 334 that provides for ease of insertion and positive retention in the connector slot. 50 and 51 illustrate an example of insertion of a plate member such as plate member 330 into the connector slot below.

38, 39 and 40 illustrate another example of plate members of various shapes and structures for use in the assembled toy set of the present invention. FIG. 38 shows a generally square plate member, referred to generally by reference numeral 340, which forms the outer edge 343 and the holes 341. 39 shows a circular plate member, referred to entirely by reference numeral 344, having a central hole 345 and an outer edge 346. 40 shows a circular segment plate member, which is referred to by reference numeral 347 in its entirety, forming the outer edge 348. The edges 343, 346, 348 of the plate members 340, 344, 347 may each be shaped to match any of the above-described shapes shown for the plate member, but the edges 343 in the manner shown in FIG. 47. It is known that the shapes 346, 348 are convenient. In the anticipated use of the plate members 340, 344, 347, the overall size is chosen to be generally smaller than the aforementioned plate members within a given set of assembly toys to provide a variety of structures.

Figures 41, 42 and 43 are constructed in accordance with the present invention and illustrate different selection shapes of plate members, referred to by reference numerals 350, 355 and 360, respectively. The plate members 350, 355, 360 are shaped to provide flower shapes, deciduous shapes, and teardrop shapes for use in various aesthetic themes within the assembled toy set of the type using the present invention. However, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, plate members of various shapes may be used to obtain play sets of various subjects without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. More specifically, the plate member 350 forms a floral outer edge 352 and a hole 351. The plate member 355 forms a deciduous outer edge 356, and the plate member 360 defines an outer edge 362 and a hole 361 resembling a teardrop shape.

FIG. 44 illustrates a triangular shaped plate member in which the entirety having an outer edge 366 is referred to by reference numeral 365. Outer edge 366 is fabricated using any of the edge structures described herein.

In order to further add flexibility to the assembled toy set of the present invention, additional shaped plates are used in the manufacture of forming a toy shape such as the example toy shape described in FIG. Thus, FIG. 45 illustrates a plate member referred to by reference numeral 370 with an outer edge 371 which doubles the curve to form the arm portion 373 and the hand portion 374. A hole 372 is formed in the hand portion 374. Similarly, FIG. 46 illustrates a plate member 375 having an outer edge 376 that doubles the curve to form the leg portion 377 and the foot portion 378.

FIG. 47 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of plate member 347 taken along line 47-47 of FIG. 40. The plate member 347 forms a tapered edge 348. The tapered nature of the edge 348 facilitates the insertion of the edge 348 into the connecting slot. This insertion is described below in FIGS. 54 and 55.

48 is a perspective view of a curved plate member constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 480. Plate 480 is generally cylindrical and forms a pair of parallel straight edges 481, 483. Plate 480 also forms a pair of generally curved circular edges 482, 484. In accordance with the present invention, the edges 481-484 of the curved plate 480 remain releasable into the slots of the connector in the manner described above. In this case, the curvature of the plate member 480 is a radius of curvature large enough to maintain adhesion within the connector slot.

49 is referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 490 and illustrates a perspective view of a curved plate constructed in accordance with the present invention. Plate member 490 is generally cylindrical in shape and corresponds to a quarter cylinder. Accordingly, curved plate member 490 forms a pair of parallel straight edges 491 and 493 with a pair of cylindrical curved edges 492 and 494. As described above, in the description of the plate member 480, the plate member 490 forms a radius of curvature and generally inserts its edges into the connecting slots of the connector in much the same manner as described above for the planar member. Big enough to facilitate it.

50 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view illustrating a typical insertion of a plate member into a typical slot of a linkage. In the position shown in Fig. 50, the plate member is positioned so that its edge is aligned with the inlet of the slot formed in the connecting body.

More specifically, the connector 120 with the cube 121 generally defines a slot 126 that terminates in the expansion undercut 130. In addition, the connector body 120 forms slots 123 and 125 having expansion undercut portions 127 and 129. A passage 122 is formed approximately in the center of the connector 120. Plate member 330 generally forms a cylindrical edge 334.

By the edge 334 positioned as shown at the entrance of the slot 126, the user then presses the plate 330 and the edge 334 in the slot 126 in the direction indicated by the arrow 325. . The elastic feature of the material from the formed body 121 allows the body 121 to be flexed outwards as indicated by arrows 326 and 327 to the extended position shown by the phantom line in FIG. 50. The user then continues to push the edge 34 into the slot 126 until it is received within the expansion undercut 130. It can be seen that the outward flexing of the slot 126 is facilitated by the undercut 130 to accommodate the size of the extended edge 334 of the plate member 330. The edge 334 of the plate member 330 is continuously driven into the slot 126 until the cylindrical edge 334 is received in the undercut 130.

FIG. 51 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of FIG. 50 of the linking body 120 and plate member 330 after completion of the aforementioned edge insertion. At the point shown in FIG. 51, the edge 334 of the plate member 330 is seated in the connector slot and securely maintained.

More specifically, the connector 120 with the cube 121 generally defines a slot 126 that terminates in the expansion undercut 130. In addition, the connector body 120 forms slots 123 and 125 having expansion undercut portions 127 and 129. A passage 122 is formed approximately in the center of the connector 120. Plate member 330 generally forms a cylindrical edge 334.

As will be evident to one skilled in the art, the elastic properties of the material from the connectors being produced cause the sides of the slot 126 to provide positive pressure against the surface of the plate member 330. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the expanded size of the cylindrical edge 334 cooperates with the expanded size of the undercut 130 to further secure the plate member 330 within the connector 120.

The removal method of the plate member 330 is generally inversely performed with the above-described insertion method, and the user simply applies a pulling force on the plate member 330 to the connecting body 120 to overcome the elastic retaining force. The member 330 is pulled out.

Figure 52 illustrates a partial cross sectional view of a selection combination of connecting block slot and plate member edge attachment. The connector 120 includes a cube 121 that defines a slot 126 therein. Slot 126 terminates at expansion undercut portion 127. The plate member 357 forms an edge portion 358 and a bead portion 359 having a tapered surface. In the insert shown in FIG. 52, the edge 358 is flexed outwardly with the cube 121 similar to the method described above in FIG. 50 to facilitate passage of the beads 359 to the undercut portion 127. To press through slot 126. If the beads 359 enter the expansion undercut portion 127, the elasticity of the material forming the cube 121 presses the slot 126 against the plate member 357 that secures the edge 358. It can be seen that the reverse operation of pulling out the plate member 357 causes the corresponding outward flexing of the cube 121 as the beads 359 pass through the slot 126.

FIG. 53 illustrates a partial cross sectional view similar to the cross sectional view shown in FIG. 52 illustrating the manufacture of the connector and another optional assembly of the plate member. More specifically, the connector 120 includes a cube 121 that forms a slot 126 that terminates in the expansion undercut portion 127. Plate member 320 includes an edge 321 having an angled face 322 and an upwardly extending bead 323. In a manner similar to the above-described operation shown in FIG. 50, the plate member 320 into the slot 126 to flex the slot 126 outward as the bead 323 passes through the slot 126 with the undercut 127. ) Is pressurized. The elastic feature of the connector 120 then causes the closure of the slot 126 opposite the plate member 320. As a result, the frictional force on the plate member 320 by the surface of the slot 126 with the extension of the bead 323 to the undercut 127 maintains a secure attachment of the plate member 320 to the connecting body 120.

54 and 55 illustrate an example between a plate member and a connector having an improved slot structure utilizing relief slots and flexible ribs as shown in FIGS. 11-13, 23 and 24, 29-31. The partial cross section of attachment is demonstrated. FIG. 54 shows a plate member inserted into and positioned in a slot of a connector, and FIG. 55 shows a plate member inserted into and secured to a connector.

More specifically, the connector 160 forms a slot 168 having an expansion undercut portion 173. The linkage also includes a pair of relief slots 181, 182 on each side of the slot 168. The presence of relief slots 182, 183 on each side of slot 168 forms a pair of flexible lips 223, 224. The plate member 347 forms a tapered edge 348.

In the position shown, the edge 348 of the plate member 347 is located at the inlet of the slot 168. The user then presses the plate member 347 into the slot 168 in the direction indicated by arrow 225. Insertion of the edge 248 into the slot 168 pushes the flexible lips 223, 224 outward in the direction indicated by arrows 226, 227. It can be seen that the outer flexing of the flexible lips 223, 224 is received by the relief slots 182, 181, respectively. As a result, the rest of the linkage 160 is not deformed by the insertion of the plate member 347. Thereafter, as the user continues the continuous pressing of the plate member 347 into the slot 168, the flexible lips 223, 224 are flexed outwardly to accommodate the insertion of the edge 348. 348 eventually touches the floor opposite to expansion undercut portion 173. At this point (shown in FIG. 55), the plate member 347 is fully inserted into the connector 160.

FIG. 55 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of FIG. 54 with the edge 348 of the plate member 347 fully inserted into the connector 160.

More specifically, the connector 160 forms a slot 168 having an expansion undercut portion 173. The linkage also includes a pair of relief slots 181, 182 on each side of the slot 168. The presence of relief slots 182, 183 on each side of slot 168 forms a pair of flexible lips 223, 224. The plate member 347 forms a tapered edge 348.

In the full insertion position shown in FIG. 55, the flexible lips 223, 224 provide a gripping force against the plate member 347 which assists the retaining plate member 347 in the fixed position. For illustrative purposes, a selection edge structure for the edge 348 is shown in the diagonal portion 369 to indicate the use of extension beads within the structure of the edge 348. In this case, the expansion bead 369 cooperates with the undercut portion 173 to further secure the plate member 347 in the slot 168.

Figure 55 provides an example of fabrication of the assembled toy set according to the present invention and allows for the presence of various structural actual loads made using the connectors and plate members of the present invention. For example, when the plate member 347 is loaded with significant load in the direction indicated by the arrow 347, torque or rotational force is added to the member 347 which is directed as indicated by the arrow 367. In this case, the flexible features of flexible lips 223 and 224 cause the lip 224 to flex downward in the direction indicated by arrow 368. As the flexible lip 224 flexes downwards in the direction indicated by the arrow 368, the relief slot 181 narrows until it is below a significant load, and the outer end of the flexible lip 224 has a relief slot ( 181 is in contact with the bottom surface. At this point, the flexing of the lip 224 is also resisted by the base of the connector 160 which provides a generally large resistance to the load. In this way, the structural attachment between the plate member and the connector facilitates relatively small attachment under load while resisting the tendency to yield generally under significant load. This provides a substantial advantage when the assembled toy set of the present invention is used in the manufacture of various complex and load bearing structures.

56 illustrates a perspective view of an example complex structure provided using the assembled toy set of the present invention. 56 is used for illustration, and it will be appreciated that various other structures of different shapes and configurations can be made using the assembled toy set of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, it can be seen that the connecting structure referred to by reference numeral 390 shown in FIG. 56 is made of a plurality of general flat plate members which are fixed to each other by engaging the connecting bodies of the above-described type. The structure 390 includes a pair of plate members 391 and 393 that are fixed at right angles by ten connectors. Attachment between the plate members 391 and 393 is facilitated by inserting its edges into the appropriate slots of the connecting body 410. Plate member 392 is also secured to the upper edges of plate members 391 and 393 by a plurality of generally spherical connectors for 413, 414 and 422. Again, the attachment between the linkage and the plate member is made using the aforementioned edge insertion into the slot portion of the linkage. Structure 390 also includes plate member 310 having edges 311, 312, 313, 314 that are further secured by connection of plate members 391, 392 by connectors 413, 414. A triangular shaped plate member 365 having an outer edge 366 is attached to the edge 314 of the plate member 310 by connecting members 415 and 416.

The structure 390 also includes a pair of plate members 396 and 397 fixed at right angles by the connector 412. In addition, the plate member 397 is stabilized at its vertical position by attachment of the connecting body 411. Although not shown in FIG. 56 due to its perspective view, it can also be seen that the plate member 396 is secured to the connector 410 to further stabilize the structure 390. The plate members 417 are mutually secured to the upper edges of the plate members 396 and 397 by the connectors 423 and 424 and the connectors 427 and 428, respectively. In addition, the triangular plate member 398 is further secured to the plate members 417 and 397 by the connecting members 427 and 428.

The plate member 394 is fixed to the plate members 396 and 417 by the connecting bodies 423 and 424. Plate member 394 also supports triangular plate member 395 using linkages 425 and 426.

The decorative curved plate member 399 is fixed to the plate members 392, 393 by the connecting body 422. In addition, a pair of smaller plate members 400 and 401 are fixed to the plate member 399 by the connecting bodies 420 and 421, respectively.

The various connectors shown in FIG. 56 are examples of the various connectors described above and may be used interchangeably within a structure such as structure 390 in accordance with the present invention. The overall structure can be further modified and modified by the child user by adding additional connectors and plate members or by removing and repositioning selected ones of the connectors and plate members. An important point of the present invention realized in FIG. 56 is that the above-described variously shaped connecting bodies can be used interchangeably to form a more complicated structure of the plate member whose assembly is a simple plate insertion operation.

Figure 57 illustrates an exploded view of a toy shape constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 430. It can be seen that the toy shape 430 is an illustration of various toy shapes that are manufactured using different combinations of connectors and plate members. It will be appreciated that the plate members and connections of the present invention are capable of producing virtually all infinite toy shapes within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

More specifically, the toy shape 430 includes a connector 140 having a plurality of inner extension slots 143, 144, 145, 146. Each connecting slot terminates at expansion undercuts 147, 148, 149, 150, respectively. In addition, the linker 140 forms a passage 142 extending therethrough. In addition, according to the present invention, an extension rod 30 having a lower end 31 is inserted into the passage 142 to provide vertical support. In addition, a pair of plate members 460 and 462 are inserted into the slots 144 and 146 respectively to further provide support for the toy shape 430. A generally cylindrical member 446 that forms a passage 447 therethrough is received in the rod 30 and seats on the top surface of the connector 140. Thereafter, the connector 440, which has a generally spherical shape and forms a passage 441 therethrough, is further accommodated in the rod 430 and seated on the member 446. The linkage 440 forms a pair of inner extension slots 442, 443. The toy shape 430 further includes a pair of arm members 450 and 453. Arm member 450 includes arm portion 451 and hand portion 452. Arm 451 is inserted into slot 442 of connector 440. Similarly, arm member 453 includes arm portion 454 and hand portion 456. Arm portion 454 is inserted into slot 443.

The cylindrical member 444 forms a hole 445, is assembled to the rod 30, and seats on top of the connecting body 440. The connector 431 forms a central passage 434 and a pair of inner extending slots 432, 433. The connector 431 is assembled to the end 32 of the rod 30. End 32 extends to connector 431 but does not pass through entirely.

The head unit 470 forms a generally hemispherical member that forms an inner hollow 472 (see FIG. 58). The head member 470 further forms a decorative surface indication 473. The head member 470 further forms a hole 471 thereon. The internal structure of the head member 470 is described in more detail in FIG. 58. However, it will be described here that the inner hollow 472 of the head member 470 is sized to allow the head member 470 to seat and partially cover the top surface of a spherical member, such as the connector 431. Suffice. Assembly of the head member 470 and the spherical connector 431 provides a decorative simulation of the shaped head and face. The toy shape 430 is completed by the crown member 496 having the lower extension pillar 497. By the head member positioned on the connector 431 such that the hole 471 is aligned with the passage 434, the pillar 497 places the crown member 496 in place in the hole 471 above the passage 434. ) Can be passed through. As a result, the toy shape can then be used in any practical play pattern designed by the child user. However, in the preferred manufacturing of the present invention, a plurality of toy shapes assembled in a similar manner to the toy shape 430 may be used by assembling a structure such as the structure 390 shown in FIG.

According to an important point of the present invention, a plurality of practically infinite toy shapes are manufactured using various connecting bodies and plate members provided in the assembled toy set of the present invention. For example, an optional crown member 498 having a downwardly extending pillar 499 can be used in place of crown member 496 in the aforementioned assembly. In addition, a selection head member 500 having a hole 501 and an inner hollow 505 is replaced in place of the head member 470, so that it can be assembled to the connecting body 431 to further diversify the toy shape 430. Can be. Also by way of example, decorative plate members 460 and 462 may be replaced by a pair of leg members 502 and 503 that are similarly inserted into slots 144 and 146 of the connector 140. Variations of the toy shape 430 described above are provided for illustration. However, as will be apparent to one skilled in the art, a plurality of generally differently modified toy shapes can be produced using interchangeable members and connectors of the assembled toy set of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

58 illustrates a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the internal structure of the head member 470. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the structure of the head member 470 is an illustration of a corresponding structure that can be seen in an optional head member, such as the head member 500 shown in FIG. The head member 470 is generally semicircular in structure and forms a spherical inner hollow 472. The head member 470 further forms a hole 471 and a face portion 473. The front portion including the face portion 473 of the head member 470 is shown diagonally to facilitate the description of the internal structure of the head member 470. In this preferred manufacture, the head member 470 further includes a pair of inner extending flange portions 475 and 476. The size and configuration of the flanges 475 and 476 are selected and appropriately fixed corresponding to the slots 432 and 433 of the connector 431. Thus, as the head member 470 is assembled on top of the connector 431 such that the hole 471 is aligned with the passage 434 of the connector 431, the flanges 475 and 476 are formed into slots of the connector ( 432, 433. This assembly of the slots 432, 433 and the flanges 475, 476 facilitates proper alignment of the head member 470 with respect to the remainder of the toy shape and between the head member 470 and the connector 431. Provides secure attachment

Figure 59 illustrates a perspective view of a mobile constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to at 510 in its entirety. The mobile 510 is manufactured using a plurality of connections and plates of different sizes, shapes and structures as described above with the extension flexible component 511. In its preferred form, the flexible component 511 has a string or a relatively thin cord. However, component 511 may be provided by a monofilament type material, such as a fishing line. Also by way of example, flexible component 511 may comprise a ribbon or other material.

The structure 510 includes a connector 512 having a plurality of plate members 513, 514, 515, 516 connected by inserting portions of each plate member into slots formed in the connector 512 of the aforementioned members. do. In addition, the flexible component 511 penetrates into one of the slots of the connector 512. The structure 510 further includes a connector 520 secured to the flexible component 511 along with the connector 521. The connecting bodies 520 and 521 are spherical in shape and are manufactured in accordance with any one of the various structures described above. The extended curved plate member 52 is secured in a selected slot formed in the connector 521. The lower end of the flexible component 511 is connected to the plate member 522 and the connector 521 using a simply tied tie, or, optionally, a connector 521 for receiving the plate member 52. Pass through the lower end of the component (511) through the slot formed in). Plate member 522 forms the general center of gravity indicated by indication 538. In accordance with the desire to produce an easily hanging mobile, the remaining parts of the structure 510 fixed to the plate member 522 are secured to the center of gravity 538 for a relatively stable vertical orientation from the flexible part 511. Evenly distributed on each side. As will be clear to those of skill in the art, a substantially infinite variety of connections between the linkage and the plate member are attached to the plate member 522 to provide different contours while meeting this general balance criterion.

In the structure of 510, the cubic connector 523 is fixed to one end of the plate member 522 by insertion into its slot. The pair of plate members 524, 538 are housed in additional slots formed in the secure attachment connector 523. The pair of spherical connectors 525, 526 are secured to the lower plate member 538. The connector 525 further supports the plate member 527, and the connector 526 further supports the plate member 528.

On the opposite side of the plate member 522, a cubic connector 529 is generally fixed to the lower edge of the plate member 522 by insertion into its slot. In addition, the triple plate members 530, 533, 536 are secured in additional slots formed in the connector 529. The plate member 536 further supports a spherical connector 637, and the plate member 530 further supports a connector 531 that supports the lower extension plate member 532 in order. The structure 510 is completed by a connector 534 fixed to the plate member 533 which supports the plate member 535 in order.

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the easy edge insertion attachment between the various plate member edges and the slots formed in the various connections facilitates a simple, convenient and interesting way of assembling a complex structure, such as structure 510. . As will be clearer by those skilled in the art, this convenient attachment allows for further modifications on an ongoing basis to provide increased development activity for child users.

Figure 60 illustrates a perspective view of an ornament constructed in accordance with the present invention and referred to in its entirety by reference numeral 540. In the assembly of the ornament 540, the various plate members and connectors selected for assembly are selected from the aforementioned connectors and plate members forming holes therethrough. In addition, as described above in FIG. 59, the extended flexible component 511, which preferably includes a flexible cord or string or an optional flexible component, can be used to simply line the flexible component through the passages and holes formed therein. Thereby securing the various plate members and connections selected for inclusion of the ornament 540.

More specifically, the ornament 540, which is a necklace or bracelet, for example, includes a plurality of connectors 543, 548, 551 each having a passageway formed therein as described above. Thus, the plurality of plate members 541, 544, 546, 550 are also selected from the aforementioned plates forming holes therethrough. For example, plate member 550 forms a hole 553 there. The ornament 540 also includes a plurality of conventional beads 542, 545, 547, 549, 552 to further enhance the general interest of the ornament 540. As will be clear by those skilled in the art, practical, infinite In addition, a variety of plate members and connectors may be lined up with flexible component 511 as desired to provide a selected assembly for the desired appearance of ornament 540. In accordance with an important aspect of the present invention, in the manufacture of the ornament 540, a plurality of plate members may be secured to one or more connections lined to the flexible component 511. This attachment is carried forward by insertion of the edge of the plate member into a convenient slot in the selected connection. This attachment has been described fully above, and is shown in FIG. 60 for attachment to the connector 548 between the additional plate members 554, 555. Similarly, the plate member 556 is partially inserted with a connector 543 in a convenient slot (not shown) for securing the plate member 556. As will be clear to those skilled in the art, the use of additional connectors ensures a variety of plate members lined with flexible parts 511, resulting in further improvement of the ornament structure. By way of example, the connector 557 is shown secured to the plate member 544 by insertion of an edge into the connector slot.

Shown is a set of assembled toys having a plurality of common planar plates that can be connected by a plurality of connectors. The linkage forms a suitable slot structure for receiving the edge of the plate member which is easily assembled by fixing a particularly suitable attachment for children. The assembled toy set is easy to use, relatively complex and facilitates the manufacture of decorative toy shapes as well as various structures. The entire assembly toy set may be themed to provide a general appearance or character that matches the desired use. The overall accolade for the components of the assembled toy set is that they can be made from relatively inexpensive injection plastic components and are suitable for mass production and mass sale.

While particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, modifications and variations can occur in various ways by those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Therefore, it is the object of the appended claims to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of this invention.

According to the present invention there is provided an improved set of assembled toys that facilitates ease of insertion or low insertion between structural parts and connecting parts, while providing a relatively rigid and stable fabricated structure.

Claims (49)

A plurality of connecting bodies each extending inwardly from the outer surface and the outer surface, each forming a three-dimensional body having a plurality of slots respectively terminated in the body of the extended undercut portion; A plurality of flat plate members each having an opposite surface and an outer edge having a size configured to be inserted into a selected one of the slots, Since the main body is formed of an elastic material, the slot is elastically deformed when any one of the edges is inserted into one of the slots to secure the connecting member to the plate member, and the connection of the plate member is a toy. Assembly toy set, characterized in that connected by the connecting body to form a structure. The method of claim 1, At least a portion of the plate member is a assembled toy set, characterized in that the rectangular. The method of claim 2, At least a portion of the plate member is a assembled toy set, characterized in that the circular. The method of claim 3, At least a portion of the plate member is a assembled toy set, characterized in that the triangle. The method of claim 4, wherein Wherein at least a portion of the plate member forms a toy-shaped accessory shape that includes an arm having a hand and a leg having a foot. The method of claim 5, At least a portion of the plate member forms a curved plane. The method of claim 1, At least a portion of the plate member is a assembled toy set, characterized in that the circular. The method of claim 1, At least a portion of the plate member is a assembled toy set, characterized in that the triangle. The method of claim 1, Wherein at least a portion of the plate forms a toy-shaped accessory shape comprising an arm with a hand and a leg with a foot. The method of claim 1, At least a portion of the plate member forms a curved plane. The method of claim 1, Wherein said slot comprises a flat spaced apart side and said expanded undercut portion is a cylindrical segment continuous with said side. The method of claim 11, Said plate member each comprising an expanding bead adjacent said outer edge. The method of claim 12, Said plate member each comprising an angled facet opposite said expanding bead. The method of claim 11, The expanding bead is assembled toy set, characterized in that the cylindrical. The method of claim 11, Said plate members each comprising an angled face adjacent said outer edge. The method of claim 11, Said slots each comprising a relief slot on each side thereof forming a pair of flexible ribs on each side of said slot. The method of claim 16, Said plate member each comprising an expansion bead adjacent said outer edge. The method of claim 17, The expanding bead is assembled toy set, characterized in that the cylindrical. The method of claim 16, Said plate member each comprising an angled face opposite said extension bead. The method of claim 16, Said plate members each comprising an angled face adjacent said outer edge. The method of claim 1, And said three-dimensional body of said plurality of linkages comprises a sphere. The method of claim 1, And said three-dimensional body of said plurality of linkages comprises a prismatic body. The method of claim 1, Wherein said three-dimensional body comprises a plurality of faces, respectively. The method of claim 1, Wherein said plurality of connectors comprises at least some spheres each having a passageway formed therethrough. The method of claim 1, Said plurality of linkages comprise at least some cubes each having a passageway formed therethrough. The method of claim 1, And said plurality of connectors comprises at least a portion of a body forming a rectangular column shape each having a passageway formed therethrough. The method of claim 1, And said plurality of connectors comprises at least a portion of a body forming a triangular prism shape each having a passageway formed therethrough. The method of claim 1, And said plurality of linkages comprise at least some cylindrical shapes each having a passageway formed therethrough. The method of claim 24, And an extension rod receivable in said passageway and extending beyond said linkage. The method of claim 25, And an extension rod receivable in said passageway and extending beyond said linkage. The method of claim 26, And an extension rod receivable in said passageway and extending beyond said linkage. The method of claim 27, And an extension rod receivable in said passageway and extending beyond said linkage. The method of claim 28, And an extension rod receivable in said passageway and extending beyond said linkage. A plurality of connecting bodies, each of which forms a three-dimensional body having a plurality of slots respectively extending inwardly from the outer surface of the outer surface, a passage passing through the three-dimensional body, and terminated in the body of the extended undercut portion, A plurality of flat plate members each having an opposite surface and an outer edge having a size configured to be inserted into a selected one of the slots, A head member having an interior hollow, a passageway, and a face portion for receiving a portion of a selected one of said linkages, and An extension rod of a size fixed in the passage, Since the body is formed of an elastic material, the slot is elastically deformed when either one of the edges is inserted into one of the slots to secure the connecting member to the plate member, and the connection of the plate member is an attachment. Is connected by the connecting body to form a toy structure comprising a, And the connector is stacked vertically aligned with the rod passing through the passage and the head member is received at the top of the connector. The method of claim 34, wherein The top assembly is assembled toy set, characterized in that the sphere. 36. The method of claim 35 wherein And the head member includes a pair of flanges supported in the inner hollow received in the pair of slots formed in the top connector. The method of claim 36, And a first crown member receivable on said head member and having a first post extending into said aperture of said head member. The method of claim 37, A second crown member receivable on said head member, said second crown member having a second pillar extending into said aperture of said head member, said first and second crown members being mutually formed to form a different toy-shaped appearance; Assembling toy set characterized by being replaceable. A plurality of connecting bodies each forming a three-dimensional body having an outer surface and a plurality of slots each extending inwardly from the outer surface, each of the slots terminating within the body at an expansion undercut, wherein the slots Each further including a pair of flexible ribs having an inner surface defining a pair of relief slots adjacent to each of the inner and flexible lips of the slot, the relief slots being configured to facilitate flexing of the lip. Provide a tolerance between the periphery of the body and the lip, The plurality of flat plate members each have an opposing surface and an outer edge, the edges being sized to be inserted into a selected one of the slots, The body is formed of an elastic material such that when one of the edges is inserted into one of the slots to secure the connecting member to the plate member, the plate member is elastically deformed by flexing of the lip. An assembled toy set connected to said connecting body to form a toy structure. A three-dimensional body having an outer surface and a slot extending inwardly from the outer surface, Planar appendages having opposing planar surfaces sized to be inserted into said slots, and A head member connectable to the body, And said body is formed of an elastic material such that said slot elastically deforms when said accessory is inserted into said slot to secure said linkage to said accessory. The method of claim 40, The main assembly is a spherical toy set, characterized in that the spherical shape. The method of claim 40, And the head member includes a pair of flanges supported in an inner hollow received in the pair of slots formed in the body. The method of claim 40, And a first crown member receivable on said head member, said first crown member having a first pillar extending into said aperture of said head member. The method of claim 43, A second crown member receivable on said head member, said second crown member having a second pillar extending into said aperture of said head member, said first and second crown members being mutually formed to form a different toy-shaped appearance; Assembling toy set characterized by being replaceable. Head member, and In the assembled toy set having a plurality of crown members each operatively connected to the head, each comprising a member mimicking a pair of eyes, A part of the toy shape is assembled from one of the head and the crown, wherein the simulated personality of the toy shape can be changed by replacing one of the crowns with a different one from the crown Toys set. The method of claim 45, The assembled toy set, characterized in that the head member is spherical. The method of claim 45, And a first crown member receivable on said head member, said first crown member having a first pillar extending into said aperture of said head member. The method of claim 1, Further comprising an extension flexible component, wherein the plurality of plate members are connected to the linkage to form an extension structure having a center of gravity, the flexible component being balanced from the flexible component as a balanced mobile. An assembly toy set fixed to the extension structure at the center of gravity that allows the extension structure to be suspended. The method of claim 1, Further comprising an elongate flexible component, the plate members each forming a hole in the plate member, the linkages respectively forming a passage therein, the flexible component passing through the hole and the passage to form an ornament. Assembly toy set characterized in that.