WO2015038581A1

WO2015038581A1 - Magnetic building tiles

Info

Publication number: WO2015038581A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/054902
Authority: WO
Inventors: Noah J. Ornstein; Joseph M. Kelley
Original assignee: Box Tiles Llc
Priority date: 2013-09-10
Filing date: 2014-09-10
Publication date: 2015-03-19
Also published as: EP3043878A1; CN105813704A; EP3043878A4; JP2016529083A; CA2923882A1

Abstract

A building system includes a plurality of building tiles and/or connecters that are magnetically and releasably connectable to one another. The magnetic building tiles are comprised of a tile frame and a tile panel. The tile frame, by one approach, is comprised of two connectable frame portions or elements having magnets embedded therein. The first frame element and the second frame element are connectable to one another through a snap, clip, or another similar connection mechanism. The first and second frame elements are connectable around or into the tile panel, which is removable from the magnetic building tile. The tile panel or the tile frame has a channel into which the other of the tile panel or tile frame extends to secure the two pieces together. In another approach, the tile frame is a single element and the tile panel may snap or attach thereto through a set of fasteners.

Description

MAGNETIC BUILDING TILES

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates generally to toy building elements.

Background

[0002] Kits to create models of buildings, vehicles, and other structures are popular with children, parents, and hobbyists. Such kits may engage and encourage a child's imagination. One type of kit provides a model or replica of a specific larger structure such as, e.g., a castle or a log cabin. Another type of kit, includes pieces that may be used to build a variety of different structures.

[0003] Kits that create impressive and realistic replicas of specific structures may limit or inhibit a child's creative play by their inherent design. For example, the materials in such kits are typically printed and/or shaped to correspond closely to the original structure (or a child's typical interpretation of such a structure) such that these materials are not easily repurposed or reconfigured into other structural elements. In addition, many of these kits do not provide an easily changeable, customizable, or adjustable structure,

[0004] Kits that can easily be used to create a variety of structures include building elements that can be repurposed or reimagined. These kits, however, do not necessarily allow the user the ability to customize the building elements to help the structure resemble another known structure, or even just to personalize the buildings or structures created, which also may limit imaginative play. For example, some building sets have pieces with only a small number of shapes and colors. Further, the colors of the individual pieces are somewhat arbitrary and the pieces are not typically designed to coordinate or replicate known structures or provide children the opportunity to develop imagined structures. Moreover, the individual pieces are not readily alterable or customizable by children. Summary

[0005] A toy building kit or system comprised of magnetic building tiles is provided.

The magnetic building tiles are magnetically connectable with one another and are comprised of a frame and a removable panel or insert. The frame, by one approach, is comprised of at least two connectable portions or elements having magnets embedded therein. The frame elements may be connectable to one another through one or more snaps, clips, or other connection mechanisms. In another approach, the frame is a single unit or one piece to which a panel snaps or is otherwise secured.

[0006] By one approach, the tile panel has a channel around its edge in which the first and second frame elements, or portions thereof, are received to secure the panel relative to the frame, in another approach, the first and second frame elements are designed to extend externally around an edge of the tile panel, rather than being wholly or partially within a channel of the panel. In such a configuration, the frame elements may have channels in which edges of the panels are received. In another example, the tile panel may have openings through which a set of fasteners or extension pegs from the frame extend to secure the tile panel and the frame to one another.

[0007] In one configuration, the tile panel and frame generally form a square when viewed from the front. In other configurations, the building tiles may form triangular, rectangular, oval or other shapes,

[0008] To provide a user with the ability to customize the kit, the kit may permit the user to easily insert and remove or attach and detach the panels from the frames such that the panels are interchangeable. The kit may include a plurality of such interchangeable panels capable of insertion and removal from a. frame to create tiles of different appearances. Further, a user can color, paint, or otherwise decorate the panels, which may be connected to one another to build a structure, such as a. play house, teepee, theater, castle, car, boat, farm stand, kitchen, elephant, floor puzzle, race track, ball run, maze or mural, to note a few of the endless options. Further, once a. user is finished with the design of a particular panel, it can be easily removed from the frame and replaced with a different panel. Also, pre-decorated or designed panels may be used with the frames. For example, to enable a user to build a model of a brick house, tile panels with a brick motif may be inserted into the tile frames. The panels may be comprised of one or more materials such as cardboard, paperboard, composite materials, plastic, metals or other light and rigid materials safe for handling by children.

[0009] The kit may include magnetic and/or magnetic and mechanical connectors, in one illustrative embodiment, the magnetic, mechanical connector (hereinafter referred to as a "mechanical connector") includes a frame element with magnets disposed therein, a pair of extension elements extending from the frame element in a substantially parallel arrangement, and a pair of wings flexibly connected to the pair of extension elements, arranged between the extension elements, extending from distal edges of the extension elements toward the frame element. By one approach, a plurality of friction elements is disposed on the pair of wing surfaces facing one another such that the friction elements may engage and securely attach the mechanical connector to a sheet of material such as a cardboard cutout. The mechanical connector may have a hinge disposed between the extension elements and the frame element to provide for relative movement, e.g., pivoting of the two pieces. In another configuration, the mechanical connector includes a frame element with a rounded face such that the frame element has a nearly semi-circular configuration. The rounded face of the frame element permits the entire mechanical connector to be rotated on the rounded face of the frame element. A mechanical connector with a hinge or rounded face can be used together with another connector or tile to provide for a portion of a structure that moves relative to another portion of the structure. For example, to enable a user to build a structure with structural elements that move relative to one another, such as a model of a house with a door, or an animal with a sweeping tail, or a fort with a drawbridge, one or more mechanical connector elements with hinges may be employed. Other mechanical connectors may include frame elements with magnets disposed therein and one or more pegs, protrusions, or fasteners disposed thereon such that one or more panels may attach thereto.

[0010] The kit also may include a plurality of three-dimensional architectural, design, or building elements or panels. For example, the tile panels may include architectural elements such as bay windows, tunnels, turrets, tent or tent supports, towers, bridges, or castle sections, among others. Other three-dimensional panels may include elements resembling features of animals, furniture, robots, food or kitchen-themed supplies, decorations, such as hoiiday-themed supplies or home decorations, vehicles, such as cars, trucks, planes, busses, and boats, and superheroes, among many others. In another example, the tile panels including the three- dimensional panels may include connection elements that permit the user to design a maze or ball run with the panels. In another example, the three-dimensional architectural panel may be formed into a race track for use with racing vehicles, such as cars. By one approach, such three- dimensional panels may be used with the other kit elements such as the frame or the mechanical connectors.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011] FIG . I is a perspective view of a magnetic building tile;

[0012] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the magnetic building tile of Fig. 1 ;

[0013] FIG. 3 is a front view of an open frame of the magnetic building tile of Fig, I ;

[0014] FIG. 4 is a front view of a closed frame of the magnetic building tile of Fig. 1 ;

[0015] FIG . 5 is a side view of a closed frame of the magnetic building tile of Fig. 1 ;

[0016] FIGS. 6-7 are front and side views of a panel in accordance with one embodiment;

[0017] FIG. 8 is a front view of a frame being connected around the panel of Figs. 6 and 7·

[0018] FIG. 9 is a side view of the frame and panel of Fig. 8;

[0019] FIG . 10 is a front, view of a tile in accordance with another embodiment;

[0020] FIG. 1 1 A is a cross sectional view of the tile of Fig. 10 with a frame;

[0021] FIGS. 1 1B-C are cross sectional views of tiles in accordance with additional embodiments;

[0022] FIGS. 12-13 illustrate a frame in accordance with another embodiment;

[0023] FIG. 14 is a front view of the magnetic building tile of FIGS. 12- 13 with a panel that covers the frame from, the front view; [0024] FIG. 15 is a front view of another magnetic building tile with a panel that exposes the frame from the front view;

[0025] FIG. 16 is a front view of a magnetic connector;

[0026] FIGS. 17- 19 are front views illustrating the magnetic connector of FIG, 56 being connected with the magnetic building tile of FIG. 1 ;

[0027] FIG . 20 is a front view illustrating a plurality of magnetic building tiles connected together;

[0028] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a mechanical connector in accordance with another embodiment;

[0029] FIGS. 22-25 are top, front and side views of the mechanical connector of FIG . 21 ;

[0030] FIGS. 26 and 27 illustrate mechanical connectors in accordance with further embodiments;

[0031] FIG. 28 is a front view illustrating the mechanical connectors of FIG. 25 attached to a cardboard cutout;

[0032] FIGS, 29 and 30 are top views illustrating the mechanical connector of FIG. 25 attaching to a cardboard cutout;

[0033] FIG. 31 is a front view illustrating connected magnetic building tiles, mechanical connectors, and cardboard cutouts;

[0034] FIG. 32 is a top perspective view illustrating connected magnetic building tiles, mechanical connectors, and cardboard cutouts;

[0035] FIG. 33 is a front view illustrating connected magnetic building tiles, mechanical connectors, and cardboard cutouts;

[0036] FIGS, 34A-34G are front views illustrating various embodiments of panels;

[0037] FIGS. 35A-35E are front views illustrating various embodiments of cardboard cutouts; [0038] FIG. 36 is a cross section of a portion of FIG. 20 illustrating the connection between two magnetic building tiles;

[0039] FIG. 37 is a cross section of an alternative connection between the two magnetic building tiles in FIG. 36;

[0040] FIG. 38 is a cross section of an alternative connection between the two magnetic building tiles in FIG. 36

[0041] FIG. 39 is a front view of an alternative panel;

[0042] FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional view of the panel of FIG. 39 with a frame engaged therewith;

[0043] FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view of the panel of FIG. 40 with another frame engaged therewith;

[0044] FIG. 42 is a side view of the panel of FIG. 39 without a tile frame;

[0045] FIG. 43 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a frame engaging different panels;

[0046] FIG. 44 is an exploded view of an additional embodiment;

[0047] FIG. 45 is a perspective view of the magnetic building tile of FIG. 44;

[0048] FIG . 46 is a partial schematic cross-sectional view of the magnetic building tile o FIG . 44;

[0049] FIG . 47 is an exploded view of an additional embodiment;

[0050] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the magnetic building tile of FIG. 47;

[0051] FIG . 49 is a partial schematic view of the magnetic building tile of FIG. 47;

[0052] FIG. 50 is a perspective view of an additional frame embodiment;

[0053] FIG . 51 is a front, view of the frame of FIG. 50;

[0054] FIG. 52 is a cross sectional view of the frame of FIG, 50 taken along line 52-52;

[0055] FIG. 53 is a perspective view of an additional panel embodiment;

[0056] FIG. 54 is a front view of the panel of FIG. 53; [0057] FIG. 55 is a perspective view of another magnetic building tile;

[0058] FIG. 56 is a perspective view of an additional panel embodiment;

[0059] FIG. 57 is a perspective view of an additional panel embodiment;

[0060] FIG . 58 is a perspective view of an additional frame embodiment;

[0061] FIG. 59 is a perspective view of an additional panel embodiment;

[0062] FIG . 60 is a perspective view of an additional frame embodiment;

[0063] FIG. 61 is a perspective view of an additional panel embodiment;

[0064] FIG . 62 is a perspective view of an additional mechanical connector;

[0065] FIG. 63 is a side view of the mechanical connector of FIG . 62;

[0066] FIG . 64 is a top view of the mechanical connector of FIG. 62;

[0067] FIG. 65 is an end view of the mechanical connector of FIG. 62;

[0068] FIG. 66 is a perspective view of an additional mechanical connector;

[0069] FIG. 67 is an end view of the mechanical connector of FIG. 67;

[0070] FIG. 68 is a perspective view of another mechanical connector;

[0071] FIG. 69 is a side view of the mechanical connector of FIG. 68;

[0072] FIG. 70 is a side view^r of a plurality of connected panels;

[0073] FIG. 71 is a side view of another plurality of connected panels;

[0074] FIG. 72 is perspective view of another mechanical connector;

[0075] FIG. 73 is an end view of the mechanical connector of FIG. 72;

[0076] FIG. 74 is a perspective view of another mechanical connector;

[0077] FIG. 75 is an end view of the mechanical connector of FIG. 74;

[0078] FIG. 76 is a perspective view of another panel;

[0079] FIG. 77 is a perspective view of another panel;

[0080] FIG. 78 is a perspective view of another panel;

n [0081] FIG. 79 is a perspective view of another panel;

[0082] FIG . 80 is a perspective view of another panel;

[0083] FIG. 81 is a perspective view of another panel;

[0084] FIG 82 is a perspective view of another panel;

[0085] FIG. 83 is a perspective view of another panel;

[0086] FIG . 84 is a perspective view illustrating magnetic building tiles, frames, and panels arranged together;

[0087] FIG . 85 is a perspective view illustrating magnetic building tiles, frames, and panels arranged together;

[0088] FIG . 86 is a perspective view illustrating magnetic building tiles, frames, and panels arranged together;

[0089] FIG . 87 is a perspective view illustrating magnetic building tiles, frames, and panels arranged together;

[0090] FIG . 88 is a perspective view illustrating magnetic building tiles, frames, and panels arranged together;

[0091] FIG . 89 is a perspective view of another panel;

[0092] FIG. 90 is a perspective view of another panel;

[0093] FIG . 91 is a perspective view of another panel;

[0094] FIG. 92 is a perspective view of another panel.

[0095] Elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. The terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary technical meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions by persons skilled in the technical field as set forth above except where different specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. Detailed Description

[0096] FIG. 1 illustrates a single building tile 10 that is magnetically connectable to other building tiles. For example, a side edge 1 1 of the building tile 10 may be magnetically connected to a side edge 1 1 of an adjacent building tile 10 (see, e.g., FIGS. 31 and 36), or to the front of an adjacent building tile 50 (see, e.g., FIG. 37), such that the building tiles 10 require a predetermined force to separate the magnetically connected building tiles 10. FIGS. 31 -33 illustrate a set or a portion of a set 50, 70, 80 of building tiles 10 and other tile configurations and building elements described below. The sets or kits 50, 70, 80 described herein are illustrative and a variety of magnetic tiles, frames, panels (including three-dimensional panels), magnetic connectors, mechanical connectors, and plastic and/or cardboard pieces, cutouts, or boxes may be employed therewith.

[0097] As shown, a tile frame 12 and a tile panel 18 are configured to mate together to form the building tile 10. By one approach, the tile frame 12 has a first frame portion 14 that releasably connects with a second frame portion 16. In other configurations, the tile frame 12 may be comprised of more than two portions or may be a single unitary configuration. An example of a one-piece frame with a single element is illustrated in FIGS. 50-52, 58 and 60, discussed further below. Each of the frame portions 14, 16 may have magnets 20 disposed therein. FIG. 4 illustrates one exemplary arrangement of the magnetic poles of the magnets 20. A variety of magnets including a variety of types, shapes, and sizes may be employed in the frame 12. In one configuration, the tile frame includes a plurality of square or rectangular shaped magnets, though other shapes also may be included. The frame magnets or magnetic elements also may be configured to move, adjust, rotate, or spin within the panel frame such that their poles can adjust relative to the magnetic poles of nearby or adjacent magnetic elements. More particularly, the magnets may have a cylindrical, spherical, or similar shape such that the magnets may rotate, spin, or otherwise adjust their polarity in relation to the nearby magnets to facilitate their attachment to one another. In another configuration, the magnets may not include discrete magnets, but, may include another magnetic material, such as magnetic paint.

[0098] Further, the frame 12 may include only a few magnets or, alternatively, may include many magnets, and this may depend, in part, on the type, shape, strength, and size of the magnets used. By one approach, each side of the magnetic building tile 10 with a similar length includes the same number of magnets 20, Thus, the magnets are generally evenly distributed through the length of the frame, in other configurations, the magnets may be more heavily concentrated near certain portions of the building tile, such as near the corners.

[0099] In one configuration, the magnets 20 are injection molded into the plastic frame

52 or the plastic frame 12 is injection molded around the magnets 20 such that the magnets are secured within the structure of the frame 12. Other alternative arrangements are possible. For example, the magnets 20 may be glued, snap fit or friction fit into the frame, to note but a few additional options. Further, even if the user or consumer receives a one-piece frame with a single unitary configuration with the magnets 20 therein (such as, for example, the frames illustrated in FIGS. 50, 58, and 60), the frame itself may have been manufactured in a plurality of components and assembled info the single element to which the panels may be attached.

[00100] Once the panels are assembled or attached to the frame, the building files may have a height and width of between about 2 to about 50 centimeters (about 0.79 to about 19.7- inches), though other dimensions are possible. In one illustrative embodiment, the building tiles may have a height of between about 7 to about 40 centimeters (about 2.75 to about 15.75-inches) and width of between about 7 to about 40 centimeters (about 2,75 to about 15.75-inches). Further, an assembled building tile may have a thickness of between about 0.25 to about 2.0 centimeters (about 0.098 to about 0.79-inches). In one illustrative embodiment, an assembled building tile has a thickness of about 0.5 to about 1 centimeter (about 0.2 to about 0.39-inches), though other thickness may be employed,

[00101] As mentioned above, the frame 12 may have a first and second frame portion 14,

16 that are connectable to one another around at least portions of the panel 18 such that the frame 12 is securely mated to the tile panel 18, as shown in FIG. 1. To secure the first and second frame portions 14, 16 together, the frame 12 may include a frame connection mechanism 22 that, permits a user to releasably connect the frame portions 14, 16 together. By one approach, the first and second frame portions 14, 16 are snap fit together. For example, the frame connection mechanism 22 may include a cantilever beam snap fit, a cylindrical snap fit, or a spherical snap fit. In one configuration, the snap fit connection is magnetic, such that the first and second frame portions 14, 16 have a magnetic snap fit. Such a releasable connection permits the frame 12 to be releasably connected to the tile panel 18, which is then removable and interchangeable. When a user wants to remove the panel 18 from the building tile 10, the user pulls the portions of the frame 54, 16 away from one another such that the two portions disengage with one another. In this manner, the tile panel 58 may then be removed from the tile frame 12.

|00102] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the connection mechanism 22 may include a first joint portion 32 and a second joint portion 34 that mate together. The first and second portions 32, 34 are disposed at ends of the first and second frame portions 14, 16 where the frame portions 14, 16 meet together when disposed around portions of the tile panel 18. The connection mechanism 22 of FIG. 2 is a mechanical joint between the first and second frame portions 14, 16. The flexible locking feature of the connection mechanism 22 includes a catch 35 of the second portion 34 and a recess 38 that mates with the second portion 34. FIG. 3 illustrates how the first and second frame portions 14, 16 may be pushed together to secure the frame portions together via the connection mechanism 22. FIG. 4 illustrates how the connected frame 12 will appear, without the tile panel 18. To separate the first and second frame portions 14, 16, the user will pull the frame portions apart in a direction opposite to that illustrated in FIG. 3.

[00103] The tile panel 18, shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, has a first and a second tile wall 26,

28. In between the two panel walls 26, 28, the tile panel 18 has a core or connecting member 30 (see, e.g., FIG. 7) that may take a. variety of configurations. In one approach, the connecting member 30 is a wavy sheet of material, similar to the material found inside of corrugated cardboard or paperboard. In other configurations, the connecting member may be foam or a block of material attached to both panel walls 26, 28. In yet other configurations, the connecting member 30 may be another structure capable of keeping the first and second tile walls 26, 28 secured relative to one another. In other configurations, as discussed below, the tile panel may not include a connecting member, but instead the panel walls may be merely opposing sides of the same member or single sheet. The panels described herein may be comprised of a number of materials, such as, for example, cardboard, paperboard, composite materials, plastics, and metals, among others. |00104] FIG. 7 also illustrates a panel channel 36 formed adjacent a panel edge 38 of the tile pane! 18. In one illustrative embodiment, the panel channel 36 extends around the entire edge of the tile panel 18. The tile frame 12 may extend within the channel 36, and the first and second frame portions 14, 16 may snap together within the pane! channel 36 to form the building tile 10. In one configuration, the panel channel 36 is deep enough such that a frame edge 40 is disposed near the panel edge 38. In this manner the magnets 20 are disposed relatively near the side edge 1 1 of the building tiles 10 to permit adjacent building tiles 10 to magnetically connect with one another. Further, having the frame edge 40 disposed near the panel edge 38 allows a user to manually grasp the frame 12 to pull apart the frame portions 14, 16 and push the frame portions 14, 16 together (see, e.g., FIG. 8). FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of the building tile 10 with the tile frame 12 mated together with the tile panel 18.

[OOlOSj In other configurations, the tile panel may not include a channel 36. For panels that do not include a panel channel, the frame will not be secured therein and the frame and panel will be associated to one another in another fashion, such as by having the frame secured around an edge or another portion of the panel or having an attachment element such as a set of fa steners or extension pegs that secure the panel to the frame,

[00106] When magnetically connecting the tiles together, adjacent tiles may connect in an edge-to-edge connection (FIG. 36), an edge-to-face connection (FIG. 37), or a face-to-face connection (Fig. 38). In each of these connection configurations, the portions of the building tiles that connect to one another are proximate to the frame, which has the magnets disposed therein. As shown in FIG. 36 (which illustrates a cross section of a portion of FIG. 20), two tiles that connect edge-to-edge generally have an edge abutting the other tile. Though the tiles 10 and 10a are illustrated as disposed 180° from one another, other configurations and angles are anticipated. By one approach, the edges of the tiles are rounded. In the edge-to-face configuration, shown in FIG. 37, one tile may be disposed at any angle from the other tile (tiles 10 and 10a are illustrated at a 90° configuration for merely illustrative purposes) and the edge of one tile 10a is disposed adjacent the face of another tile 10 at or near the location of the magnets. As suggested above, if an edge-to-face connection is desired with a non-perpendicular configuration, a user may orient the tiles in such a configuration. In another configuration, shown in FIG. 38, a face-to-face connection is arranged by disposing the faces of two tiles, at or near the location of the magnets, adjacent to one another. Any of these connections may be employed when configuring the tiles into structures, and the preferred connection may depend on the desired structure.

[00107] FIGS. 10 and 1 1 A illustrate an alternative building tile 100. The building tile 100 is similar to the building tile 10 discussed above, except the tile frame 112 is generally disposed around and outside the edge of the tile panel 118, as opposed to within a channel 38 of the tile panel 18. FIG. 1 IB illustrates a building tile 101 that incorporates both a frame disposed around the edge of the panel and within the channel, and FIG. 11C illustrates a frame disposed within the channel and along the edge of the panel. As shown in FIGS. 1 1A-C, the tile panel 1 18 does not necessarily have the same channel as described above with respect to panel 18. In yet another embodiment, shown in FIG. 43, a single type of frame 712 may cooperate with a number of different panels 718a, 718b, 718c. Further, for some panels, such as panel 718c, the frame 712 and panel 718 can be engaged in more than one engaged configuration.

[00108] FIG. 10 illustrates a panel 1 18 having a panel perimeter or edge 1 19 disposed within the frame 1 12. In one embodiment, the frame 1 12 includes a pair of arms 117 that each extend on either side of the panel 118, as shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 11 A. Further, the tile frame 112 has a channel 121 into which an edge of the tile panel 1 18 is secured. In this configuration, the tile frame 112 is disposed around the edge of the tile panel 118 and the frame 112 generally does not extend in between the two panel walls 126, 128.

[00109] Another embodiment, shown in FIG. 11B, includes a building tile 101 having a tile frame 312 that is disposed around the edges of the panel 118 and is partially disposed in between the two panel walls 126, 128. Such a configuration may be desirable to ensure a very secure fit between the tile panel 1 18 and the tile frame 312.

[00110] In yet another configuration, the building tile 103 has a tile frame 412 that extends in between the walls 126, 128 of the panel 1 18 and along the edge of the panel, but not along the outside surfaces of the walls 126, 128. The embodiment illustrated in FIG, 11C is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1, though in FIG. 11C the frame 412 extends outwardly from the perimeter of the panel 1 18 and covers the end surfaces of the side walls 126, 128 such that, the magnets are disposed outwardly of the panel perimeter as well. As discussed above, the panels may have a channel into which the frame extends (see, e.g., FIGS. 7-9) and/or the frame may have a channel into which a pane! can extend (see, e.g., FIGS. 10-1 1 C), among others. Though the panel 1 1 8 may be engaged by three different frames 1 12, 312, 412, it may be desirable to have a panel that also can be engaged by the frame 12 illustrated in FIG 3. FIGS. 39-41 illustrate a convertible tile panel 618 that is adjustable for use with many of the tile frame configurations described herein.

[00111] In one approach, the convertible tile panel 618 has two panel walls 626, 628 with a connecting member 630 therebetween and a crease, score, or line of weakness 641 on the walls 626, 628 disposed proximate the edge of the walls. This line of weakness 641 permits the panel 618 to be folded or bent into another configuration. For example, a margin 645 of the panel 61 8, which is disposed outside of the line of weakness 641 , can be manipulated or folded in between the two panel walls 626, 628 as shown in FIG. 42. To assist with the manipulation of the tile panel 618, in one exemplary embodiment, the tile panel 618 may include corner portions 644 that can be removed from the remainder of the panel 618 to facilitate configuration of the remainder of the panel 618 into the folded configuration. Further, it is possible that the margins 645 also may be removed from the panel 618 prior to use with any of the frames described herein.

[00112] FIG. 40 illustrates an unfolded convertible panel 618 having one end of the panel

618 engaged with a tile frame 312. In this configuration, the tile panel 618 remains unfolded. Alternatively, a portion of the tile panel 618 beyond the line of weakness 641 may be folded over, as shown in FIGS, 41 and 42. In this manner, the tile panel 618 can receive a tile frame 12 in the channel 636 formed in between the two portions or margins 645 that are folded in between the panel walls 626, 628. It is also anticipated that the margin 645 might be entirely removed from the panel 618, depending on the design of the frame that, is to be disposed within the channel 636.

[00113] In one exemplary embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 43, a tile frame 712 may be engaged with a number of different panels. The building tile configuration of 751 (which is similar to the building tile 10 shown in FIG. I) includes frame 712 that is disposed in a channel 736 of panel 718a. The building tile configuration of 753 has panel 71 8b engaging channels 737 disposed in frame 712. As illustrated in FIG. 43, the panels 718a, 718b, though similar, have different widths. The building tile configurations 755 and 757 include a convertible panel 718c, similar to panel 658 discussed above, and illustrate how the frame 712 and the panel 71 8c can be used in two different arrangements. The building tile configuration 755 has the frame 712 disposed within the margins 745 of the convertible panel 718c, whereas in building tile configuration 757, the panel margins 745 are folded inward and the frame 712 engages the margins 745 disposed in the channel 736

[00114] FIGS. 1-11 depict building tiles 10, 100 with a generally square configuration when viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 31 , additional configurations are possible, such as, a rectangular-shaped building tile 13, triangular-shaped building tiles 25, 125, and an oval- shaped building tile 17, among others. Indeed, the shapes illustrated are merely exemplary and many other shapes and configurations are possible within the scope of these teachings. A variety of shapes can be employed with building tiles, e.g., building tiles 10, having a channel in the tile panel or with building tiles, e.g., building tiles 100, having a channel in the tile frame. In yet another configuration, the building tiles may not include a channel on the frame or panel such that the frame and panel are associated with one another in another fashion, such as by fasteners. Further, the variety of shapes (rectangular, triangular, oval, circular, etc.) and configurations (channels on the tile panel, channels on the tile frame, or no channel) may be used together to form a myriad of building structures.

[00115] FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate one exemplary embodiment of a triangular frame element 212 with a first frame portion 214 and a second frame portion 216 that may connect via connection mechanism 222 that is similar to those discussed above. FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate two formed building tiles 25, 207. Triangular building tile 25 has a panel 2 8 with a channel into which the tile frame extends. Triangular building panel 207 has a triangular tile frame 213 that has a channel into which the panel 219 extends.

[00116] FIGS. 44-46 illustrate an alternative building tile 810. The building tile 810 includes a tile frame 812 and a tile panel 818 that are configured to mate together. The frame 812 may have a first frame portion 814 and a second frame portion 816 that are connectable to one anoth er around at, least portions of the panel 818 such that the frame 812 is securely mated to the tile panel 818, as shown in FIGS. 45 and 46. In one configuration, the tile frame 812 is disposed around the edge of the tile panel 818. More specifically, the first frame portion 814 may be snap-fit together with the second frame portion 856 around the edge of the tile panel 818. FIG. 46 illustrates the first frame portion 814 having a flange 817 disposed near an edge of the tile panel 818 along a face of the tile panel 858 and the second frame portion 816 having a flange 859 disposed near an edge of the tile panel 818 along an opposing face of the tile panel 818. In this manner the tile panel 818 is tightly and securely captured between the two frame portions 814, 816. In one embodiment, an edge portion of the tile panel may be pinched or compressed between the frame portions such that the edge portion has a slightly reduced thickness where it is gripped by the frame portions. To secure the two frame portions 814, 816 relative to one another, the first and second frame portions 814, 816 have respective first and second walls 815, 821 that tightly snap-fit together. In other embodiments, the two frame portions 814, 186 may be secured together by other fastening elements. Further, the wail 815 may help retain the tile panel 812 securely between the first and second frame portions 814, 816, as shown in FIG. 46.

[00117] Similar to previous embodiments, the building tile 810 may include a magnet, or a plurality of magnets 820, in the tile frame 812. The magnets 820 may be disposed in both the first and second frame portions 814, 816 and the magnets also may be limited to one or the other of the first and second frame portions 814, 816.

[00118] FIGS. 47-49 illustrate an alternative building tile 910. The building tile 910 includes a tile frame 912 and a tile panel 918 that are configured to mate together. The frame 912 may have a first frame portion 914 and a second frame portion 916 that are connectable to one another around at least portions of the panel 918 such that the frame 912 is securely mated to the tile panel 91 8, as shown in FIGS. 48 and 49. In one configuration, the tile frame 912 is disposed around the edge of the tile panel 918. More specifically, the first frame portion 914 may be snap-fit together with the second frame portion 916 around the edge of the tile panel 91 8. FIG. 49 illustrates the first frame portion 914 having a flange 917 disposed near an edge of the tile panel 918 along a face of the tile panel 918 and the second frame portion 916 having a flange 919 disposed near an edge of the tile panel 918 along an opposing face of the tile panel 918. One of the first and second panels 914, 916 also may have a wall, such as a wall 915 or 921 to help retain the panel 918. In this manner, the tile panel 918 is securely captured between the two frame portions 914, 916. |00119] To secure the two frame portions 914, 916 relative to one another, the first and second frame portions 914, 916 may have respective first and second walls 915, 921 that tightly snap-fit together. In addition to the first and second walls 955, 921, or instead of the walls, the first and second frame portions 914, 916 may include a connection mechanism 922 having a first joint portion 932 and a second joint portion 934 (FIG. 47) that mate together. The first joint portion 932 may include a recess, and the second joint portion 934 may include a protrusion, extension, or catch. The first and second joint portions 932, 934 are disposed along the faces of the first and second frame portions 914, 916 that are coextensive with or abut one another when the tile frame 912 and tile panel 914 are securely mated together. Though FIG. 47 illustrates a segment or side of the tile panel 912 having three connection mechanisms 922 disposed thereon, a greater or lesser number may be employed.

[00120] Similar to previous embodiments, the building tile 910 may include a magnet, or a plurality of magnets 920, in the tile frame 912. The magnets 920 may be disposed in both the first and second frame portions 914, 916 and the magnets also may be limited to one or the other of the first and second frame portions 914, 916.

[00121] FIG. 55 illustrates another exemplary magnetic building tile. The building tile

1010 has a magnetic tile frame 1012 that mates with a tile panel 1018. The magnetic tile frame 1012 is connected to the tile panel 1018 by a connection mechanism, such as a peg, protrusion, extension, catch, friction fit or snap-fit element 1000 (see, e.g., FIG. 50). The peg 1000 disposed on the tile frame 1012 mates with corresponding holes or openings 1001 in the tile panel 1018. The peg 1000 and the openings 1001 are friction or snap-fit together to ensure that the two elements are securely connected to one another when assembled as a building tile 1010.

[00122] As noted, a number of connection mechanisms between the frame 1012 and the panel 1018 may be employed. In addition, to improve the connection between the tile frame 1012 and the tile panel 1018 additional elements may be incorporated therein. For example, the panel 3018, shown in FIG. 92, may include a fitting within or around the openings 3001 to improve or strengthen the interference or friction fit between the two elements. The fitting 4000 may be an inset fitting, retainer, grommet, eyelet, or lining of the opening 3001. By one approach, the fitting 4000 is comprised of a material having an increased coefficient of friction as compared to the material comprising the remainder of the panel 3118. By another approach, the fitting 4000 may help retain the shape or configuration of the opening 3001 to permit the panel 31 18 to be detached and reattached to frames many number of times. In yet another approach, the fitting 3001 may he external to the panel.

|00123] Similar to the frame previously discussed, the frame 1012 has magnets 1020 disposed therein such that the frame can be magnetically attracted and attached to another magnetic frame, tile, or connector. Like the frames previously discussed, a plurality of interchangeable panels can be releasably and stably supported therewith to form a building tile. One of the panels can be easily inserted into and removed from the frame to create tiles of different appearances by changing panels.

[00124] The frame 1012 also may be a single or one-piece construction to which the user may simply secure a removable tile panel, in this manner, the removable panel 1018 can be releasably and stably supported in the frame 1012 to form a building tile 1010 without disassembling the frame 1012. More particularly, each of the panels 1018 can be placed in a position of stable equilibrium within the frame 1012 or removed therefrom simply by manually applying pressure to the panels 1018 and frame 1012 without disassembling or permanently deforming any part of either the frame or the panel. In addition, this attachment and detachment can be accomplished without the use of tools. Though the user may manipulate a one-piece frame 1012, the frame itself may nonetheless have been manufactured in a plurality of components and assembled into the single element to which the tile panels 1018 are attached.

[00125] Though illustrative frame 1012 has a one-piece configuration when in use, the pegs 1000 or similar fasteners also may be incorporated into a frame that has a plurality of releasabie and connectable frame elements or portions with a. connecting member and/or a channel, such as those described above.

[00126] By one approach, the pegs 1000 are disposed on a brace, strengthening rib, bracket, or support member 1002. In one embodiment, the support members 1002 are disposed near the corners of the frame 1012. One illustrative frame 1012, shown in FIG. 50, has four legs forming four corners, which may be spanned by the support members 1002. As shown in FIG. 50, the support members 1002 are disposed near the corners of the frame 1012. The support member 1002 may have a variety of shapes including the wedge or triangle illustrated in FIG. 51 , though in other configurations, the support member 1002 is merely a strip member that spans the distance between two of the legs of the frame. By one approach, the support member 1002 is disposed about halfway through the thickness of the frame 1012. As shown in FIG. 52, the support member 1002 has two sides and a first side from which the peg 5000 extends is disposed approximately in the middle of the thickness of the frame 1012.

[00127] As shown, the pegs 1000 extend from a first side of the support member 1002 and may extend such that they are approximately the same height as an edge or first side 1003 of the frame 1012. In this manner, when the panels 1018 are secured to the frame 1012 the resulting panel wall 1026 is flush with the top of the peg 1000 and an edge 1003 of the frame 1012. By one approach, if the frame 1012 is about 0.25-inches (about 6.35 mm) in height, the first side surface of the support member 1002 may be disposed about 0.125-inch (about 3.175 mm) from the outer surface or first side 1003 of the frame 1012.

[00128] Unlike some of the panels previously discussed, tile panel 1018 lacks a connecting element and a channel. Instead, the panel 1018 is a single element with opposing sides. Like previous panels described, the panels 1018 may be formed of a variety of materials, such as, for example, cardboard, paperboard, plastic, composites, metal, or wood. In some embodiments, the panels 1018 may have a coating of material that enables the user to easily decorate and redecorate the surface of the panel 1018. As suggested above, the panel 1018 is approximately the same thickness as the peg 1000 such that the peg 1000, a side surface 1026 of the panel 1018, and the first side 1003 of the frame 1012 are flush with one another when the panel 1018 and the frame 1012 are assembled together.

[00129] As discussed above, the building tiles, such as tiles 1010 may have a height or a width of between about 2 to about 50 centimeters (about 0.79 to about 19,7-inches) and a thickness of between about 0.25 to about 2.0 centimeters (about 0.098 to about 0.79-inches), among other ranges. In one illustrative embodiment, the square building frame 1012 has a height or width of about 10.16 to about 16.51 centimeters (about 4.0 to about 6.5-inches). In yet another configuration, the height, h, or width is about 10.8 centimeters (about 4.25-inches), as shown in FIG. 51 . In this manner, the square building frame is about 4.25-inches by 4.25-inches in dimension. In another illustrative configuration, the height may be about 15.24 cm (about 6.0- inches) such that the frame is about 6-inches by 6-inches. In one configuration, the building frame 1012 may have a thickness, t, of about 0.5 to about 0.8 centimeters (about 0.2 to about 0,3- inch). By another approach, the building frame 1012 may have a thickness, t, of about 0.65 centimeters (about 0.25-inch), as shown in FIG, 52.

[00130] Furthermore, each of the legs or lengthwise sections of the building frame 1012 may be about 0.64 centimeters (about 0.25-inch) in width, w, such that the central opening of the building tile 1012 is between about 8.9 cm (3.5-inch) to about 15.2 cm (6.0-inch) if the height is between about 10.2 cm (4.0-inch) to about 16.5 cm (6.5-inch). In one illustrative configuration, the central opening is about 9.5 centimeters (about 3.75-inch). In this manner, the square panel 1018 that mates with the frame 1012 is about 9.5 centimeters by 9.5 centimeters (about 3.75-inch by 3.750inch). Further, the panel 1018 may have a thickness of about 0.32 centimeters (about 0.125-inch), As the first surface of the support member 1002 is disposed about halfway through the height of the building frame 1012, the panel 1018 is flush or nearly flush with the top edge of the building frame 1012 when the two are mated together.

[00131] The square magnetic frames 1012 (shown in FIGS. 50-52) mate with the corresponding square panel 1018 illustrated in FIGS. 53 and 54. The openings 1001 are disposed proximate the corners such that they easily mate with the pegs 1000 when the tile 1012 is assembled, as shown in FIG. 55. The magnetic frames and associated panels also may have a number of different shapes or sides, such as, for example, a pentagonal shape, a hexagonal shape, and a triangular shape, such as an equilateral or an isosceles shape, among others. These alternative shapes may have a range of dimensions similar to those described above. By another approach, the magnetic tiles, frames, and panels may have a circular or oval shape, among others,

[00132] Further, one illustrative triangular frame 1025, shown in FIG. 58, has an equilateral shape and can be mated with the triangular panel 1019, By one approach, the triangular frame 1025 may have legs with a length of about 15.24 centimeters (about 6.0-inches) and the triangular panel 1019 may have sides with a length of about 12.5 centimeters (about, 4.96-inches). Another triangular frame 1007 shown in FIG. 60 has an isosceles shape and can be mated with the triangular panel 1015. By one approach, the triangular frame 1007 has one leg with a length of about 15,16 centimeters (about 5.97-inches) and two other legs with a length of about 30 centimeters (about 1 1 .81-inches). Accordingly, the triangular panel 1015 may have one side with a length of about 13.3 centimeters (about 5.23-inches) and two other sides with a length of about 26.54 centimeters (about 50.45-inches). In yet another approach, the triangular frame 1025 may have legs with a length of about 10.5 centimeters (about 4.25-inches) and the triangular panel 1019 may have sides with a length of about 8.9 centimeters (about 3.51 -inches). Another triangular frame 1007 shown in FIG. 60 has an isosceles shape and can be mated with the triangular panel 1015. By one approach, the triangular frame 1007 has one leg with a length of about 10.7 centimeters (about 4.23-inches) and two other legs with a length of about 21.2 centimeters (about 8.36-inches). Accordingly, the triangular panel 1015 may have one side with a. length of about 9,4 centimeters (about 3.7-inches) and two other sides with a length of about 18.8 centimeters (about 7.4-inches).

[00133] In addition to the panels discussed above, the frames disclosed herein (e.g., frames 10, 110, 1012) also can be mated with alternative panels, such as window panels illustrated in FIGS. 56 and 57. FIG. 56 illustrates an arched window panel 1099, and FIG. 57 illustrates a window panel with windowpanes. These window panels 1099 and 1199 are similar to the panels 1018 previously discussed, but include a cut out portion that permits the user to see through the panel. Further, the window panels 1099 and 1199 may include plurality of holes or openings 1001 that allow the panels to mate with the pegs 1000 on the frames 1012. In addition to the window panels, the user also may incorporate three-dimensional panels as described below. Further, the window panel, other architectural panels, and/or three-dimensional panels may be used with the kits described below to permit a child or other user to build a variety of structures,

[00134] The building tiles described herein can be manipulated and configured in a number of ways. For example, as discussed above, the edges and faces of the tile adjacent the edges may be magnetically connected together. Further, the building tiles may be connected to other structures, such as a plastic and/or cardboard box or piece. In addition to using the building tiles discussed above, connectors, such as a magnetic connector and/or mechanical connector may be employed to secure the building tiles to other structures or pieces. |00135] As shown in FIGS. 56 and 17, the magnetic connector element 42 (hereinafter referred to as the "magnetic connector") may include a frame element 44 and magnets 46 disposed therein. The magnets 46 may be disposed within the frame 44 in any of the manners discussed above. In one approach, the frame element 44 is a single, linear frame element having at least one surface that is generally flat and that can be disposed flush against a flat surface. As shown in FIG. 17, the magnetic connector 42 may be disposed on the inside surface of a cardboard piece 48. In this manner, magnetic building tiles 10, 100, or any other shape/configuration of magnetic tile or other connectors, including those described below, may be attached to the cardboard piece 48 by placing one or more magnetic connectors 42 on the inside surface and another magnetic element (i.e., building tiles or connectors) adjacent the internal magnetic connector 42, but on the outside surface of the cardboard piece 48,

[00136] FIGS. 18-20 depict magnetic building tiles 10, 10a being attached to the plastic and/or cardboard piece 48, As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the magnetic connector 42 may be disposed on an inside surface of the cardboard piece 48 near an upper corner thereof. A magnetic building tile 10 is then advanced to a position on the outside of the cardboard piece 48 that is adjacent the magnetic connector 42, but on the opposing surface of the wail of the cardboard piece 48. Depending on the materials of the building tiles 10, more than one magnetic connector 42 may be disposed on the inside surface of the cardboard piece 48 to secure the building tile 10 to the outside surface of the box. For example, two, three, or even four magnetic connectors 42 may be disposed on the inside surface of the cardboard piece 48 in an arrangement, that corresponds to the first and second frame portions 14, 16 of the building tile 10. See, e.g., FIGS. 36-38 illustrating two magnetic connectors 42 disposed on the inside surface of the cardboard piece 48 to provide additional stability for the building tile 10. Other magnetic elements also may be disposed on the inside surface of the cardboard piece 48, i.e., another magnetic tile or another connector, such as those described below.

[00137] Once the magnetic building tile 10 is in position on the outside of the cardboard piece 48, such that it remains attached to the cardboard piece 48 via the magnetic connection, additional magnetic building tiles 10a may be attached to the first magnetic building tile 10. In this manner, plastic, paperboard, or cardboard, including a typical cardboard box, may be used with building tiles and connectors described herein. In addition, the building tiles 50, 10a and

- 77 - magnetic connectors 42 may be connected to another connector, such as mechanical connector 142 that has a pair of wings, as described below. In the example of FIG. 20, the mechanical connector 142 attaches a cutout 92. Though the cutout 92 is illustrated as a railroad crossing sign, numerous alternative cutouts may engage with mechanical connectors 142.

|00138] FIGS, 21 -25 illustrate another exemplary magnetic and mechanical connector

142. The mechanical connector 142 has a frame element 144 with magnets 146 disposed therein. The magnets 146 may be disposed within the frame 144 in any of the manners discussed above. The mechanical connector 142 has a pair of extension elements 152, 154 that are attached to and extend from the frame 144 in a substantially parallel arrangement. As shown, each of the extension elements 152, 154 has a connector wing 156, 158 flexibly connected to the extension element 152, 154. In one approach, the end of the connector wing 156, 158 is attached to an end of the extension element 152, 154 disposed a distance from the frame element 144. Further, the flexibly connected wings 156, 158 extend between the parallel extension elements 152,154, and a plurality of friction elements 160 may be disposed on the pair of flexibly connected wings 156, 158 on a surface thereof that faces the other of the connector wings 156, 158.

[00139] In this manner, a. sheet, such as a cardboard panel (or panel made of another material), may extend between the connector wings 156, 158 and engage the friction elements 160 disposed therein (see, e.g., FIG. 30). This permits the mechanical connector 142 to attach magnets, such as magnets 146, to a cardboard (or other) piece or a cardboard box such that the building tiles, or other connectors, can thereafter be attached to such piece or box.

[00140] Another exemplary magnetic, mechanical connector 242 is shown in FIG, 26.

The mechanical connector 242 includes a frame 244 with parallel extension elements 252 connected thereto. The mechanical connector 242 also includes wings and friction elements similar to those discussed above with respect to mechanical connector 142, Further, the mechanical connector 242 includes a hinge 262 that permits the extensio elements 252 to move or rotate relative to the frame element 244 and the magnets 220. Also, when a cardboard piece or box, or other panel type, is disposed within the extension elements 252 of the mechanical connector 242, the cardboard piece or box, or other panel type, may move relative to the frame element 244 and any magnetic building tiles or connectors attached thereto. In short, arrow 264 depicts the movement of the parallel extension elements 252 relative to the frame 244.

|00141] FIG. 27 depicts another magnetic, mechanical connector 342, which is similar to mechanical connector 242, but lacks a hinge element. The mechanical connector 342, instead, has a frame 344 with a rounded configuration about its face disposed away from the side of the mechanical connector 342 with the parallel extension elements 352 extending therefrom. Previous connectors had rounded ends as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25 (though squared edges also may be incorporated) and at least a partially flat face, whereas mechanical connector 342 also has a rounded face and also has a cross section of the frame 344 that is similar to a semi-circle. In this manner, the mechanical connector 342 may rotate around the side of the frame 344 or a portion thereof disposed away from the extension elements 352. As shown in FIG. 27 with arrow 364, this provides for a larger range of motion than that resulting from the hinge 262 of the mechanical connector 242 illustrated in FIG, 26. Thus, a building kit or system may include either or both of the mechanical connectors 242, 342 to permit the user to create structures with portions that rotate relative to one another. In addition, it is anticipated that a mechanical connector with both a hinge and a rounded configuration about its face may be employed,

[00142] Another magnetic, mechanical connector 2042 is illustrated in FIG. 72, The mechanical connector 2042 is nearly identical to the mechanical connector 142 described above, expect for the friction elements 2066. The mechanical connector 2042 has a frame 2044 with magnets disposed therein that permit it to be attached to other frame elements described herein. Further, the mechanical connector 2042 includes a pair of extension elements 2052, 2054 that are attached to and extend from the frame 2044. The extension elements 2052, 2054 have flexible connector wings 2056, 2058 attached thereto upon which the friction elements 2066 are disposed. As compared to the previously illustrated rounded friction elements 160, the friction el ements 2066 are disposed in a jagged fashion.

[00143] FIG. 74 illustrates mechanical connector 3042 that is similar to those previously described and includes a magnetic frame 3044, extension elements 3052, 3054 with flexible wings 3056, 3058 having friction elements 3066 formed thereon. The mechanical connector 3042 has a rounded face similar to that in the mechanical connector 3042 shown in FIG. 27. Despite the different shape of the friction elements 2066, 3066, they function similarly to the others described herein.

[00144] FIG. 28 depicts a large plastic and/or cardboard piece 348 with one mechanical connector 542 attached thereto and another mechanical connector 142 being pushed into engagement with the cardboard piece 348. Once the mechanical connectors 142 are attached to the cardboard piece 348, additional building tiles or connectors can be joined thereto. Further, the piece could be any of a variety of shapes, sizes, designs, or materials, if the cardboard piece 348 is to operate as a door, or other rotating element, of a structure, the mechanical connectors 142 may be exchanged for other mechanical connectors such as connectors 242, 342, or 3042.

[001451 FIG. 29 illustrates the cardboard piece 348 as it is being pushed into contact with the mechanical connector 142. Once the cardboard piece 348 is in position between the extension elements 152, 154 and their respective flexible wings 156, 158, the friction elements 160 disposed on the wings 156, 158 will secure the cardboard piece 348 to the mechanical connector 142 by the friction generated between the wings 156, 158 and the cardboard piece 348. In this manner, the mechanical connector 142 is secured to the cardboard piece 348 by friction and additional magnetic tiles or connectors can be attached to the mechanical connector 142 via magnetism. The mechanical connector 142 and plastic or cardboard piece may be separated by pulling the cardboard piece out of the connector with sufficient force to overcome the friction.

[00146] Two additional mechanical connectors 4042, 5042 are illustrated in FIGS. 62-65 and 66-67, respectively. Like previously described mechanical connectors 142, the mechanical connectors 4042, 5042 include one or a plurality of magnets disposed therein and another mechanical element that permits the mechanical connectors 4042, 5042 to attach to a panel. In the embodiment of FIGS, 62-67, the mechanical connectors 4042, 5042 include a frame element 4044, 5044 and pegs 4000, 5000, respectively, to which panels or other cardboard or plastic pieces with holes or openings therein can attach. Whereas the previously described mechanical connectors could attach or grip a plurality of different cutouts, panels, or sheets of material, the mechanical panel connectors 4042, 5042 are formed to mate with panels having specific openings 1001 therein to accommodate the fasteners or pegs 4000, 5000. |00147] The mechanical connectors 4042, 5052 are similar to one another, except that one side of the mechanical connector 5042 has a rounded face or edge that permits the mechanical connector 5042 to rotate or move around the rounded face of the frame 5044 as previously described. The mechanical connectors 4042, 5042 can attach to the tile panels through the pegs 4000, 5000 and openings 1005 in the panels. Further, the mechanical connectors 4042, 5042 can be combined or magnetically attached to the other mechanical connectors and tiles described herein. To mate with the previously described panels having a length of about 9.5 centimeters (about 3.75-inch) in one configuration, the mechanical connectors 4042, 5042 may have a length of 10.8 centimeters (4.25-inches), a height of 0.635 centimeters (about 0.25-inches), and the pegs 4000, 5000 may be disposed a distance from the ends of the mechanical connectors and in a position corresponding to the openings in the panels. In another configuration, to mate with the previously described panels having a dimension of about 13.97 centimeters (about 5.5-inch), the mechanical connectors 4042, 5042 may have a length of 15,24 centimeters (about 6.0-inehes), a height of 0.635 centimeters (about 0.25-inches) and the pegs 4000, 5000 may be disposed a distance from the ends of the mechanical connectors 4042, 5042 and in a position corresponding to the openings in the panels.

[00148] FIGS. 68 and 69 illustrate another mechanical connector 6042 having a. frame

6044 with pegs 6000 disposed thereon. The mechanical connector 6042 operates similarly to the mechanical connectors 4042, 5042 previously discussed. Specifically, the mechanical connector 6042 is configured to have panels attach thereto with the pegs 6000 extending through panel openings. In one illustrative embodiment, the mechanical connector 6042 includes four pegs 6000 disposed along the frame 6044 (as opposed to the previously illustrated two) such that the mechanical connector 6042 can attach two panels 1018. Further, the mechanical connector 6042 also could incorporate a rounded face (not illustrated), if desired.

[00149] By one approach, the mechanical connector 6042 may have a length of about

21.59 centimeters (about 8.5-inches) or about 30.48 centimeters (about 12-inches), possibly depending on the size of the other building tiles and frames. The mechanical connector 6042 also may include four pegs 6000 that are disposed in a configuration that permits the mechanical connector 6042 to attach to two panels, such as, for example panels 1018, 1099, or 1 199, among others. In other configurations, a single panel may have openings that correspond to the pegs 6000 disposed along the frame 6044, as illustrated in FIGS. 68 and 69. As illustrated in FIGS. 70 and 73 , the panels 1048, 1 148, which may be comprised of cardboard or plastic, may have a plurality of openings 7001 that correlate with the location of the pegs 6000 from the mechanical connector 6042. Further, the panels 1048, 1 148 may include creases or lines of weakness 1041 , 5 541 that permit the panels 1048, 1 148 to be easily manipulated into a variety of shapes. For example, the panel 1048 can be manipulated into a square shaped box and the panel 1 148 can be manipulated into a square box with a lid. Each of the panel sections of the square or box may be approximately 21 .59 centimeters (about 8.5-inches) or about 30.48 centimeters (about 12-inches) such that the mechanical connector 6042 may easily mate therewith.

[00150Ί As mentioned above, the tile frames also may be associated or attached to three- dimensional panels, such as those having a first planar portion and a second portion protruding or otherwise extending from the first planar portion. For example, the panels may incorporate architectural or other design elements that give the panels additional dimension. Such three- dimensional panels may be readily formed into a castle, fort, bridge, and tent, among others. The three-dimensional panels also may be formed to resembled a race track, maze, ball run, or features of animals, vehicles, or superheroes, among many others. FIGS. 76-78 illustrate a few of the myriad of different three-dimensional panels that may be employed with the frames described herein, FIG. 76 illustrates a. tunnel panel 1218 with a window opening that may be connected to two frames with one frame at the top of the tunnel panel 1218 and another frame disposed at the bottom of the tunnel panel 1218. The tunnel panel 121 8 also may be designed to connect only to a single frame. FIG. 77 illustrates a castle panel that may be mated to a frame 1012 at its lower end. FIG . 78 illustrates a bay window panel 1418 that may be mated with a frame along its sides, similar to the previously described window panels 1099, 1 199, but having additional thickness or dimension. As mentioned above, the tile panels, including the three- dimensional panels, can be made of a variety of materials.

[00151] Though FIGS. 76-78 illustrate various architectural panels, other three- dimensional panels may be employed herewith. FIGS. 79-81 illustrate a plurality of panels 1518, 1618, 1718 that may be incorporated into a maze or ball run. These panels 1518, 161 8, 1718 may be combined with frames 1012 and one another to create a path through which a small object can advance or be advanced. FIG. 79 illustrates a panel 1518 having a cylindrical tube shape through which a ball or other smaller object can advance. FIG. 80 illustrates a panel 1618 having a cylindrical tube that is bent such that the ball or smaller object would advance therethrough, but be moved laterally and longitudinally. Finally, FIG. 81 illustrates a panel 1758 that illustrates an X-shape through which a ball or small object could move in a variety of manners. These may be used with a number of other panels such as, for example, a funnel or stepped ball-drop to create a path through which a ball or another small object could be advanced.

[00152] Another set of panels that may be used to create a ball run or maze can be found in FIGS. 89-91. These panels 21 18, 2218, 2318 generally have a first panel or panel section 2118a, 2218a, 2318a, and a second panel or panel section 21 18b, 2218b, 2318b. Each of the panel sections has four openings 2101, 2201 , 2301 therein. These openings can mate with the plurality of connecting pegs discussed above such that these panels 2118, 2218, 2318 can connect with two of the frames or a number of the mechanical connectors discussed above. Whereas the three-dimensional maze panels illustrated in FIGS. 76-78 may form a ball run or maze adjacent to the frames 1012, the panels in FIGS. 89-91 form a ball run or maze that advances through the panels 21 18, 2218, 2318,

[00153] In this manner, the three-dimensional panels 2118, 2218, 2318 may be used to form a maze or ball run such that the ball or other object can advance through the maze or ball run and through the frames. To that end, in between the first and second panel sections 2118a, 2218a, 2318a, 2118b, 2218b, 2318b, a center section 2131, 2231 , 2331 guides or moves the ball or other object moving through the maze or bail run. For example, in FIG. 89, the panel 2118 includes a straight tunnel section 2131. The center section 2231 of the three-dimensional panel 2218 is a tunnel with a bend. FIG. 91 illustrates a three-dimensional panel 2318 with a funnel section 2331. These three-dimensional panels, and others, can be used with the frames described herein to form a number of maze or ball run configurations. Though these three-dimensional panels have been illustrated with openings to connect to the frame with the connecting pegs, these three-dimensional panels also may have channels or other elements that permit them to easily mate with the other frames described herein. [00154] Other three-dimensional panels may be used to build structures, such as, for example, a race track for vehicles. A number of different panels may be incorporated into a race track including, for example, a ramp panel 1 818, as shown in FIG. 82 or a half-pipe panel 1918, shown in FIG. 83. These and other panels, such as an arcuate or bridge panel 2018, may be used together to provide a road, course, or race track for users to move toy vehicles, such as cars or trucks.

[00155] FIGS. 84 to 88 illustrate a few illustrative track formations. FIG. 84 illustrates a ramp 2418 attached to a plurality of tile panels 1012. FIG. 85 illustrates loop panel 2518 and an exit ramp 2618. FIG. 86 illustrates a bridge panel 2018 that may be used to connect two distinct groups of tiles 1010 or frames 1012. FIGS. 87 and 88 illustrate two additional three-dimensional panel 2718, 2818, respectively. Each of the panels 2718, 2818 has a curved section around which a plurality of vehicles may travel. Each of the three-dimensional panels includes openings through which the panel may be mated with the pegs of the frames described herein. The panels may have a number of different openings and opening configurations. In one illustrative embodiment, the three-dimensional panels include four openings therein (see, e.g., panel 2618 of FIG. 85) to permit the panels to attach to a frame with four fasteners. Further, such panels may include a variable thickness to help secure the panel to the fasteners of the frame. In another approach, the three-dimensional panels may include two openings therein (see, e.g., panel 3218 that attaches to the mechanical connector 4042 in FIGS. 86 and 88). The three- dimensional panels with two openings may easily connect with the mechanical connectors described herein, which themselves may attach other magnetic frames and tiles.

[00156] The three-dimensional race track panels described herein also may include a lip, flange, ledge, or guardrail to assist a user with keeping the vehicles on the track. As illustrated in FIGS. 84 and 86, the guard rail 3000 may merely be one-piece raised rim. In other configurations, the guardrail may include a number of pieces such as posts and rails.

[00157] As mentioned above, a building set or kit, 50 may be comprised of a number of different magnetic building tiles, frames, panels, and/or connectors. The building set 50, shown in FIG. 31 , may include a number of building tiles, e.g., 10, 13, 25, that have a frame disposed in the channel of the panel and/or building tiles, e.g., 100, 207, that have a frame disposed around and outward of the edges of the panel. Whether a channel is disposed on the frame or the panel or whether another connection mechanism such as peg fasteners are employed, the building tiles are all magnetically connectable to one another along their edges and faces. In addition, the building tiles can be magnetically connected to connectors, for example, as shown in FIG. 31. In addition, two mechanical connectors (such as connectors 142, 242, 342, 2042, 6042, 4042, 5042, 6042) may be magnetically connected to one another such that two cardboard pieces 348 and 349 may be secured adjacent to one another.

[001581 Additional illustrative building kits 70, 80 are illustrated in FIGS. 32 and 33, and these kits also may include a number of magnetic tiles, frames, panels, connectors, and panel pieces, which may be arranged to form a variety of structures, such as a fort or vehicle. With a variety of building elements, a user can assemble or arrange the elements in a myriad of different configurations. For example, the structure created with the kit 70 shown in FIG. 32 employs a variety of building tiles 10, 25, and a variety of mechanical connectors 142, 242. In addition, a number of differently shaped panel pieces 448, 449, 450, which may be comprised of cardboard, may interface with the mechanical connectors and building tiles. FIG. 33 illustrates a kit 80 used to create a structure with a variety of building tiles including square building tiles 10, 100, rectangular building tiles 13, 113, and triangular building tiles 25, 125, In the illustrative structure of FIG. 33, pieces 548, 590 have been incorporated into the structure with mechanical connectors 142.

[00159] To provide the user with a. variety of building tiles usable to create different structures, the kits may include panels and frames of different shapes and configurations. FIGS. 34A-34G illustrate a few of the numerous options for the panel shape. FIG. 34A illustrates a square panel and FIGS. 34B-D illustrate different triangular panels. FIG. 34F, illustrates a rectangular panel and FIG. 34F illustrates a circular panel. FIG. 34G illustrates an oval panel. These panels are illustrated for exemplary purposes and different panel shapes are anticipated. Further, these panels can be incorporated into any of the tile or frame configurations discussed above, i.e., a panel with a channel or a frame with a channel. Furthermore, as noted above, three-dimensional panels such as panels 1218, 1318, 1418, 1518, 1618, and 1718 may be incorporated into the kits or dies. [00160] A kit also may include a pluralit of panel pieces, such as cardboard or plastic cutouts, that may be assembled together with one another and with tiles, such as with the use of the mechanical connectors 142, 242, 342, 2042, 6042, 4042, 5042, 6042. By one approach, these cardboards or plastic pieces may be formed from a sheet of cardboard or plastic having lines of weakness formed therein, wherein the lines of weakness create a plurality of discrete tiles resembling building elements. Once separated from the sheet of cardboard or plastic these discrete cardboard or plastic pieces may be secured to one another to form a variety of structures. These cardboard pieces may have a variety of details that correspond to known architectural features. For example, FIG. 35A shows a cutout piece 90 having a notched configuration that could be used to depict portions of a castle or an element of a car, or various other elements of a structure. Panel or cutout pieces 92, 94, 96, 98 of FIGS. 35B-E depict various window configurations, though these may be repurposed into many alternative elements. Indeed, cutout piece 92 was rotated in FIG. 20 to depict a railroad crossing sign. These pieces may include a plastic portion in the center of the open portion, or may not have any material disposed in the openings. These configurations are not an exhaustive representation, but are merely examples of the various optional pieces that may be used herewith. Also, some of these cutout pieces may be formed into magnetic tiles with a corresponding frame. For example, the cutout 90 may be engaged with a frame such as tile frame 112 to create a magnetic tile having openings therein. Other panels that may be incorporated into the kit includes panels 1048, 1 148 that can be employed to build various shapes.

[00161] A wide variety of modifications, alterations, and combinations can be made with respect to the above described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention, and are within the ambit of the inventive concept. For example, there are numerous variations on the size and shape of the building tiles disclosed herein.

Claims

What is claimed:

5. A building system comprising:

a plurality of frames that include magnetic elements to enable each frame to be magnetically attracted to another frame; and

a plurality of interchangeable panel s, each of the panels being capable of being releasably and stably supported in one of the frames to form a building tile;

wherein each of the panels can be placed in a position of stable equilibrium within a frame or removed therefrom simply by manually applying pressure to the panels and frame members without disassembling or permanently deforming any part of either the frame or the panel and without the use of tools.

2. The building system of claim 1 wherein each frame includes at least one first fastening portion and each panel includes at least a second fastening portion.

3. The building system of claim 2 wherein the first fastening portion is a fastener on the frame, and the second fastening portion is an opening in the panel which can be associated with the fastener to attach the removable panel to the frame;

wherein the frame and removable panel are connectable together to form an assembled magnetic building tile that, is configured to magnetically connect, to other assembled magnetic building tiles, magnetic connectors, or magnetic frames disposed adjacent, thereto.

4. The building system of claim 3 wherein the fastener includes at least, one connecting peg.

5. The building system of claim 4 wherein the frame further includes at least, one support member to which one of the at least one connecting pegs is mounted.

6. The building system of any of the preceding claims wherein the magnets disposed within the frame are rotatable and include at least one of cylindrical magnets, spherical magnets, or magnetic discs.

7. The building system of any of the preceding claims wherein the frame further comprises at least two support members and at least two fasteners such that each of the support members includes one of the two fasteners.

8. The building system of any of the preceding claims wherein the removable panel includes at least two sides, at least two corners, and at least two openings, wherein each of the corners includes one of the two connecting pegs.

9. The building system of any of the preceding claims wherein the removable panel has a first side and an opposing second side and one of the first or second sides of the removal panel is flush with a. first edge of the frame when the frame and the removable panel are connected together.

10. The building system of any of the previous claims wherein each frame is a one-piece structure, each frame comprises at least one connector, and each panel comprising at least one connector for engaging one of the connectors on one of the frames.

1 1. The building system of any of the preceding claims where the panel is a three-dimensional panel.

12. The building system of any of the preceding claims further comprising a mechanical connector.

13. The building system of claim 12 wherein the mechanical connector comprises at least one of:

a frame element with magnetic elements disposed therein; and

at least two pegs connected thereto and extending therefrom in the same direction;

wherein the pegs are configured to retain a remo vable panel with a snap-fit or friction fit.

54. A pane! connector comprising:

a linear frame element with magnetic elements disposed therein; and

at least a pair of fasteners extending from the frame element in the same direction; wherein the fasteners are configured to retain a removable pane! to the panel connector and the panel connector is connectable to magnetic building tiles, magnetic connectors, or magnetic frames.

15. The panel connector of claim 14 wherein the fasteners include a connecting peg configured to mate with openings in the removable panels.

16. A building system comprising:

a plurality of magnetic building tiles having:

a connectable frame with a first frame element and a. second frame element releasably connectable with one another, the first and second frame elements having magnets embedded therein; and

a removable panel having a channel around the edge of the removable panel for receiving the connectable frame:

wherein the first and second frame elements are connectable around at least portions of the removable panel to form an assembled magnetic building tile that is configured to magnetically connect to other assembled magnetic building tiles disposed adjacent thereto. 7. The building system of claim. 16 further comprising pre-formed cutout pieces.

18. The building system of any of claims 16 or 17 further comprising mechanical connectors configured to attach one of the assembled magnetic building tiles to an adjacent structure or the pre-formed cutout pieces.

59. The building system of claim 1 8 wherein the mechanical connectors comprise:

a frame element with magnets disposed therein; a pair of extension elements extending from the frame element in a substantially parallel arrangement;

a pair of wings flexibly connected to the pair of extension elements, the pair of wings arranged on inside surfaces of the pair of extension elements; and

friction elements disposed on the pair of wings on surfaces facing one another configured such that the friction elements may engage and securely attach the mechanical connector to a sheet of material.

20. The building system of claim 19 wherein the mechanical connector further comprises a hinge disposed between the pair of extension elements and the frame element.

21. The building system of claim 19 wherein the mechanical connector further comprises a rounded face.

22. The building system of any of claims 16 to 21 further comprising magnetic connectors comprising a singular, linear frame element with magnets disposed therein.

23. The building system of any of claims 16 to 22 wherein the building tiles have a height between about 7 cm to about 40 cm.

24. The building system of any of claims 6 to 23 wherein the building tiles have a width between about 7 cm to about 40 cm.

25. The building system of any of claims 16 to 24 wherein the building tiles have a thickness between about 0.5 cm to about 1 cm.

26. The bui lding system of any of claims 56 to 25 further comprising a three-dimensional panel.

27. A magnetic building tile comprising: a frame having a first portion and a second portion releasably connectable with one another, the tile frame having magnets disposed therein; and

a panel having an edge configured to mate with the first and second portions of the tile frame;

wherein the tile frame is secured around the edge of the tile panel to form assembled magnetic building tiles and the tile frame is removable from the tile panel.

28. The magnetic building tile of claim 27 wherein the tile panel has a channel around the edge to receive the tile frame.

29. The magnetic building tile of claim 27 wherein the tile frame has a channel into which the edge of the tile panel is received ,

30. The magnetic building tile of claim 27 wherein the first and second portions of the tile frame are injection molded such that the magnets are secured therein.

31. The magnetic building tile of claim 27 wherein the first and second portions of the tile frame connect to one another with a snap fit connection comprising at least one of a cantilever beam snap fit, a cylindrical snap fit, or a spherical snap fit.

32. A connector for building elements comprising:

a frame element with magnets disposed therein;

a pair of extension elements extending from the frame element in a substantially parallel arrangement;

a pair of wings iiexibly connected to the pair of extension elements, the pair of wings arranged on inside surfaces of the pair of extension elements; and

friction elements disposed on the pair of wings on surfaces facing one another configured such that the friction elements may engage and securely attach the connector to a sheet of material.

33. The connector of claim 32 wherein the sheet of materia! is a plastic or cardboard cutout.

34. A kit comprising:

a sheet of cardboard or plastic having lines of weakness formed therein, wherein the lines of weakness create a plurality of discrete pieces resembling building elements and the plurality of discrete pieces configured to be secured to another of the plurality of discrete pieces.

35. The kit of claim 34 further comprising mechanical connectors that attach to the discrete pieces.

36. The kit of claim 34 wherein the discrete pieces are shaped to depict architectural details.

37, A kit comprising:

a three-dimensional panel having at least a first planar portion and a second portion protruding from the first planar portion, wherein the first planar portion includes at least one opening therein; and

wherein the three-dimensional panel is configure to mate with a frame element through the at least, one opening therein.