WO2016174556A1

WO2016174556A1 - Playhouse

Info

Publication number: WO2016174556A1
Application number: PCT/IB2016/052299
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alexander MASHAROV; Asaf HAZAN
Original assignee: Keter Plastic Ltd.
Priority date: 2015-04-28
Filing date: 2016-04-22
Publication date: 2016-11-03

Abstract

A foldable or collapsible playhouse includes exactly and exclusively two members: a base member and a roof member. The roof member includes a first roof-panel and a second roof- panel, that are interconnected via a hinge. The base member includes a first side-wall, connected via a hinge to a second side-wall, connected via a hinge to a third side-wall, connected via a hinge to a fourth side-wall, connected via a hinge to the first side-wall. The base member further includes two top-flap units able to extend upwardly and able to connect to the roof member, and also able to fold downwardly. The entire base member, with the two top-flap units, is foldable and can be inserted into and stored within a cavity that is defined by the two roof-panels of the roof member in a closed position.

Description

PLAYHOUSE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[001] This patent application claims priority and benefit from United States provisional patent application number 62/153,558, filed on April 28, 2015, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[002] The present invention relates to the field of toys.

BACKGROUND

[003] A toy is an item used for playing, typically by a child. Playing with toys may help children to learn about various aspects of life and about their environment; to enjoy the playing experience; and to develop or improve social skills.

[004] Popular toys may include, for example: dolls and miniatures; puzzles; building blocks; construction sets; miniature version of cars and vehicles; collectible items; digital toys and various electronic gadgets.

SUMMARY

[005] The present invention may comprise, for example, a playhouse or playset which may be used for playing (e.g., by a child, or by children).

[006] A foldable or collapsible playhouse includes exactly and exclusively two members: a base member and a roof member, which may be attached to each other and later detached from each other. The roof member includes a first roof-panel and a second roof -panel, that are interconnected via a hinge. The base member includes a first side-wall, connected via a hinge to a second side-wall, connected via a hinge to a third side-wall, connected via a hinge to a fourth side-wall, connected via a hinge to the first side-wall. The base member further includes two top-flap units able to extend upwardly and able to connect to the roof member, and also able to fold downwardly. The entire base member, with the two top-flap units, is foldable and can be inserted into and stored within a cavity that is defined by the two roof- panels of the roof member in a closed position.

[007] The present invention may provide other and/or additional benefits or advantage

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[008] Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a playhouse, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[009] Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of the playhouse, showing its roof member separated from its base member, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0010] Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of the base member of the playhouse, with roof connectors in an upward position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0011] Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of the base member of the playhouse, with roof connectors in a downward position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0012] Fig. 5 is a schematic illustration of the base member of the playhouse, in a partially- folded position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0013] Fig. 6 is a schematic illustration of the base member of the playhouse, in a fully- folded position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0014] Fig. 7 is a schematic illustration of the roof member of the playhouse, in a fully-open position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0015] Fig. 8 is a schematic illustration of the open roof member with the fully-folded base member, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0016] Fig. 9 is a schematic illustration of the open roof member containing therein the fully- folded base member, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0017] Fig. 10 is a schematic illustration of a folded structure of the playhouse, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0018] Fig. 11 is a schematic illustration of a fully-closed folded structure of the playhouse, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention. [0019] Fig. 12 is a schematic illustration demonstrating stages in folding and un-folding of the playhouse, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0020] Fig. 13 is a schematic illustration of a connector element of the playhouse, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] Fig. 14A is a schematic illustration of a portion of the playhouse, showing the connector in an open position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] Fig. 14B is a schematic illustration of a portion of the playhouse, showing the connector in a closed position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of some embodiments of the present invention. However, it will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that some embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, units and/or modules have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the discussion.

[0024] The term "playhouse" as used herein may comprise, for example, a structure or toy or item that is typically used by a child or children as a smaller version of a real-life house or home; a miniature home; a down-scaled version of a house; a playset; a toy house; or the like.

[0025] Applicant has realized that a conventional playhouse or play-set for children is typically sold or provided to consumers in a dis-assembled form, as a kit that includes numerous parts (e.g., four separate walls) and numerous assembly units (e.g., screws, nuts, bolts), and is typically accompanied by a booklet or manual describing numerous, complicated, assembly instructions that are time-consuming, effort-consuming, and error- prone. Additionally, such conventional "kits" may require an assembly process, that may require two or three persons to join together in order to hold in place large and bulky units, or in order to perform certain precise connections among them. Additionally, such convention "kits" may pose a safety risk during the cumbersome assembly process, if a side-wall or a panel of the structure falls or hits or otherwise hurts one of the participants in the assembly process.

[0026] Applicant has realized that there is a need for a playhouse or play-set that would be rigid and dependable for children to play with (e.g., would not collapse to tumble sideways), yet would be easy to assemble in an efficient and easy process that does not require tools or accessories, that may be performed by one person without requiring help of another person, and that may comprise a safe and rapid process of putting together a small number of parts (e.g., only and exactly two parts).

[0027] Applicant has further realized that there is a need for a playhouse or play-set that would be easily and efficiently assembled, would be easily and efficiently dis-assembled, and would be capable of having a small or reduced form-factor and foot-print in order to enable efficient storage and transportation.

[0028] The present invention may comprise a playhouse or play-set which may be assembled or constructed easily, rapidly and efficiently, by a single person (e.g., a single adult person), without help of other persons, without utilizing any construction tools (e.g., without utilizing a screwdriver or a hammer; without using any screws or nails or nuts-and-bolts), without prior knowledge or experience, and without reliance on complex assembly instructions.

[0029] The present invention may comprise a playhouse which may be dis-assembled or folded easily, rapidly and efficiently, by a single person (e.g., a single adult person), without help of other persons, without utilizing any construction tools (e.g., without utilizing a screwdriver or a hammer; without using any screws or nails or nuts-and-bolts), without prior knowledge or experience, and without reliance on complex assembly instructions.

[0030] The present invention may comprise a playhouse which may be folded into a small and narrow (or thin) form-factor, which may generally resemble a thin suitcase; for efficient storage at home, storage at a toy store, transport, or setting-aside.

[0031] The playhouse may be assembled or constructed easily, rapidly and efficiently, by a single person (e.g., a single adult person), without help of other persons, without utilizing any construction tools (e.g., without utilizing a screwdriver or a hammer; without using any screws or nails or nuts-and-bolts), and without prior knowledge, and without reliance on complex assembly instructions.

[0032] Reference is made to Fig. 1, which is a schematic illustration of a playhouse, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; to Fig. 2, which is a schematic illustration of the playhouse, showing its roof member separated from its base member, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; to Fig. 3, which is a schematic illustration of the base member of the playhouse, with roof connectors in an upward position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; to Fig. 4, which is a schematic illustration of the base member of the playhouse, with roof connectors in a downward position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; to Fig. 5, which is a schematic illustration of the base member of the playhouse, in a partially-folded position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; to Fig. 6, which is a schematic illustration of the base member of the playhouse, in a fully-folded position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; to Fig. 7, which is a schematic illustration of the roof member of the playhouse, in a fully-open position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; to Fig. 8, which is a schematic illustration of the open roof member with the fully-folded base member, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; to Fig. 9, which is a schematic illustration of the open roof member containing therein the fully-folded base member, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; to Fig. 10, which is a schematic illustration of a folded structure of the playhouse, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; and to Fig. 11, which is a schematic illustration of a fully-closed folded structure of the playhouse, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0033] For example, a playhouse 100 may comprise two members, or may comprise exactly (or only, or exclusively) two distinct members: a base member 151, and a roof member 152. In some embodiments, no other loose members or elements or parts, may be needed or required or comprised in the playhouse 100. In some embodiments, only these two members may be used in order to assemble the entire playhouse 100; and no other part or element or tool or accessory may be required for such assembly, or for subsequent dis-assembly or folding or the playhouse 100.

[0034] The base member may comprise four walls 101-104; each wall comprising a panel intended to stand generally-vertically. The four walls 101-104 may be permanently connected to each other (permanently interconnected), along four lines which may comprise four respective generally- vertical axis units or hinges, thereby allowing the four walls 101- 104 to be folded or collapsed into a thin structure while also maintaining the four walls interconnected; or by maintaining that each one of the four walls 101-104 remains directly connected and permanently connected to exactly two other walls of the four walls 101-104; for example, via hinges 171-174 or other axis mechanism that allow folding and unfolding of two adjacent walls. For example, side-wall 101 may be connected via hinge 171 to side-wall 103; which may be connected via hinge 172 to side- wall 103; which may be connected via hinge 173 to side-wall 104; which may be connected via hinge 174 to side-wall 101. Each wall may optionally comprise one or more openings or apertures, one or more windows, doors, or other in-wall elements.

[0035] In a demonstrative example, a first wall 101 may comprise an aperture 121 for a door (or for two doors, or for a window), the aperture 121 extending upwardly from a bottom-side horizontal member 122 of the first wall 101. The bottom-side horizontal member 122 may optionally comprise two sub-members 122A-122B that may optionally be inter-connected via a hinge 176 or an axis or other folding mechanism. The top edge of the first wall 101 may further be permanently connected to a roof connector 124 (which may also be referred to herein as a top-side flap, or top-side flap unit, or top-side flap member), which may be able to fold upwardly or downwardly about a generally-horizontal axis or hinge 177C. The roof connector 124 may comprise two sub-members 124A-124B (or sub-panels), which may be inter-connected via a hinge 127 or an axis or other folding mechanism, such as a "two-piece jigsaw puzzle" mechanism or male-female complementing mechanism. This structure may allow the entirety of the first wall 101, including its inter-connected roof connector 124 and its bottom-side horizontal member 122, to fold inwardly towards a U-shape structure that is defined by the other three walls 102-104.

[0036] Similarly, an opposing wall that is located opposite to wall 101 and is not directly connected (at its edges) to wall 101, referred to as a third wall 103, may comprise an aperture 131 for a door (or for two doors, or for a window); the aperture 131 extending upwardly from an optional bottom-side horizontal member of wall 103, or extending upwardly from a lower edge or lower region of such door(s) of wall 103. In a demonstrative example, wall 103 may comprise aperture 131 which may be partially closed by two door-units able to rotate about two generally-vertical axis or hinges In some embodiments, the two door-units do not touch the ground or the floor, as they extend downwardly but do not reach the floor or ground, to allow smooth opening and closing of the door-units. In other embodiments, the two door- units touch the ground or the floor, to provide additional support or stability to the playhouse 100, and may allow opening and closing of the door-units even though they touch the floor or ground as they are pushed or pulled to open or to close. The top edge of the third wall 103 may further be permanently connected to a roof connector 134, which may be able to fold upwardly or downwardly about a generally-horizontal axis 135 or hinge. The roof connector

134 may comprise two sub-members 134A-134B, which may be inter-connected via a hinge

135 or an axis or other folding mechanism. This structure may allow the entirety of the third wall 103, including its inter-connected roof connector 134 and its two door-units, to fold inwardly towards a U-shape structure that is defined by the other three walls 101, 102 and 104.

[0037] In a demonstrative implementation of the present invention, for example, wall 102 may be non-folding by itself (e.g., in contrast with wall 101, or in contrast with wall 103). In some embodiments, wall 102 may not have a roof connector member on its upper edge. In other embodiments, wall 102 may optionally comprise, or may be permanently connected to, a slanted extension bar 162 which may be a flap or a wing extending (or protruding) upwardly in a slanted or diagonal direction, to allow securing or attaching of the roof member 152 to the base member 151.

[0038] In a demonstrative implementation of the present invention, for example, wall 104 may be non-folding by itself (e.g., in contrast with wall 101, or in contrast with wall 103). In some embodiments, wall 104 may not have a roof connector member on its upper edge. In other embodiments, wall 104 may optionally comprise, or may be permanently connected to, a slanted extension bar or slanted extension flap 164 which may be a flap or a wing extending (or protruding) upwardly in a slanted or diagonal direction, to allow securing or attaching of the roof member 152 to the base member 151.

[0039] Roof member 152 may comprise two generally-similar or generally-identical or generally-symmetrical roof-panels 141-142; which may be permanently inter-connected via a generally-horizontal axis or hinge 143 or folding mechanism. Each one of panels 141-142 may have one or two or three flaps or wings (e.g., exactly one; or exactly two; or exactly three) or such cornered extensions, that may extend in a generally-perpendicular direction relative to the flat surface of the panel; the fourth edge of each panel does not have such extension or flap or wing, in order to allow smooth connection between the two panels 141- 142 as well as rotation of them relative to each other about the hinge 143. For example, panel 141 may have three flaps 141A-141C; and panel 142 may have three flaps 142A-142C.

[0040] In some embodiments, roof panels 141-142 may comprise one or more locking mechanisms or lock mechanisms or locking members, which may inter-operate with complementing or similar locking mechanisms or locking members that may be located in the upper region of the base member 151 (e.g., in its roof connectors 124 and/or 134; and/or in its upper-side flaps 162 and 164. In a demonstrative implementation, each one of the roof- panels 141-142 may comprise four locking members.

[0041] For example, in a demonstrative embodiment of the present invention, roof-panel 141 may comprise: a locking member 181 able to engage with a complementing locking member locking member 192 of roof connector 134; and a pair of two locking members 183-184 able to engage with a pair of complementing locking members 193-194 of flap 164 of wall 104. Similarly, for example, roof-panel 142 may comprise: a locking member 185 able to engage with a complementing locking member 195 of roof connector 124; a locking member 186 able to engage with a complementing locking member 196 of roof connector 134; and a pair of two locking members able to engage with a pair of complementing locking members 197- 198 of flap 162 of wall 102.

[0042] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the size or dimensions of each one of roof -panels 141-142, may be, for example: a size that is generally similar to, or identical to, or slightly larger than (e.g., approximately 1 or 2 or 3 or 5 percent larger than) the size of wall 102 or wall 104. Such particular size or dimension ratio may enable efficient folding and storage of the entire playhouse 100 into a thin, folded (or collapsed), suitcase-shaped structure.

[0043] In accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention, the entirety of playhouse 100 may be provided to a consumer or to a user in a folded manner, by providing a folded structure 155. The user may open or unfold the folded structure 155 by opening the roof member 152 which operates as a "shell" or "case" structure; and the user may then remove from within it, the folded base member 151. The user may then move or rotate the base member 151 to stand generally horizontally on the ground or floor; and may pull away the folded walls 101 and 103 (e.g., pulling them away from each other), thereby extending or unfolding the entire base member 151. The roof member 152 may then be placed onto (or on top of) the base member 151. For example, the roof member 152 may be placed onto (or on top of) the roof connector 124 and/or the roof connector 134. Optionally, the roof member 152 may be secured to such roof connector(s) 124 and/or 134, using a locking mechanism or other securing mechanism (e.g., a rotating latch that may be turned 90 degrees clockwise to lock, and may be turned 90 degrees counter-clockwise to unlock). For example, the locking mechanism may comprise a bone-shaped or I-shaped member, which may rotate within a channel or a tunnel such that: when its long dimension is generally perpendicular to the long dimension of the channel, the locking member locks the roof part to the base part; whereas, when its long dimension is generally parallel to the long dimension of the channel, the locking member unlocks them and they are free to be released or separated. Other suitable connection mechanisms or attachment / detachment mechanisms may be used; e.g., Velcro, hook-and-eye, latches, buckles, male-female connector(s), push-pull connectors, pressure connectors, or the like; and optionally, no screws, no nails, and no nuts-and-bolts may be required for such attachment and/or detachment. Other suitable operations may be used in accordance with demonstrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the particular structure of playhouse 100 may enable, for example: rapid and efficient unfolding or assembly; rapid and efficient folding or assembly; small or reduced or efficient form-factor for storage or transport in folded position.

[0045] In accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention, playhouse 100, and some or all of its components or members or parts, may be formed of one or more suitable materials; for example, plastic, wood, metal, cardboard, a mixture or combination of materials, or the like.

[0046] In some embodiments, the entirety of playhouse 100, or the entirety of all its components, or some of its components or members or parts, may be formed of plastic, or of plastic material(s). In some embodiments, the entirety of playhouse 100, or the entirety of all its components, may be formed exclusively of plastic, or of plastic material(s). In some embodiments, the entirety of playhouse 100, or the entirety of all its components, or some of its components, may be formed of injected plastic material(s), or by injection molding of plastic material(s). In some embodiments, the entirety of playhouse 100, or the entirety of all its components, may be formed exclusively of injected plastic material(s), or by injection molding of plastic material(s).

[0047] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the playhouse 100 may be a structured as an article that has an unfolded height of at least 100 or 120 or 140 or 140 or 160 centimeters, in order to enable a child or children to enter into (or stay within) the playhouse 100. In some embodiments, the playhouse 100 may not be a miniature doll-house for dolls or for small toys; but rather, may be a playhouse or playset that a child or children may safely enter and exit.

[0048] In accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention, hinges or axis members, or other pivoting or pivot-enabling members or rotation elements, may be used to inter-connect (e.g., permanently) two adjacent walls, or a wall and a top-side roof connector, or the sub-units of the roof member, or the sub-units of the base member, or the sub-units of a wall or a door or a window, or a combination of such elements. For example, a hinge or axis member or other pivot-enabling member may be positioned between two adjacent members (e.t., at a common edge of such members, or at the union of two generally- parallel edges of such two members), in order to allow one of the two members to pivot around (or to pivot about, or to pivot relative to) the other one of the two members, or vice versa. Such pivots, hinges or axis may allow efficient folding or intentional collapsing of the playhouse structure, as well as un-folding and efficient assembly. In some embodiments, a pivot or hinge or axis may be implemented in a manner that is characterized by friction, such that the pivot or hinge or axis enables pivoting of a member upon application of a force that is greater than a threshold value; while the pivot or hinge or axis maintains the position of the two inter-connected members (and does not allow pivoting) if a force is applied when the force is smaller than the threshold value. Other suitable mechanisms may be used in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

[0049] Reference is made to Fig. 9, which is a schematic illustration demonstrating stages in folding and un-folding of the playhouse, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention. In this process, a fully-assembled playhouse is shown (step 201); which may be taken apart to two separate units, the base member (step 202A) and the roof member (step 202B); the base member may be folded, by folding downwardly the top-side flap units (step 203), and by collapsing inwardly two opposing side-walls (step 204), to achieve a fully-collapsed base member (step 205); which may then be inserted into a complimenting cavity in the roof member (step 206), which may then be fully-folded or closed to result in a fully-folded structure (step 207) which may resemble a think suitcase or board or box. The process may be reversed, from step 207 to step 201, in order to begin with the fully-folded playhouse, and to end with the fully-constructed playhouse.

[0050] Reference is made to Fig. 10, which is a schematic illustration of a connector element 300 of the playhouse, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; and to Fig. 11 A, which is a schematic illustration of a portion 401 A of the playhouse, showing the connector element 301 in an open position, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention; and to Fig. 11B, which is a schematic illustration of a portion 40 IB of the playhouse, showing the connector element in a closed, in accordance with some demonstrative embodiments of the present invention. Other suitable connectors may be used, and other suitable attachment / detachment mechanisms may be used.

[0051] Although portions of the discussion herein may relate, for demonstrative purposes, to a "hinge" or "axis" as an element that enables folding and/or unfolding of two adjacent units or two adjacent members, some embodiments may utilize other suitable connectors, folding elements, folding mechanisms, male-female connectors, complementing elements, units or connectors that are similar to interlocking pieces of jigsaw puzzle, hook-and-eye connectors, rope-based or tied connections, and/or other suitable connection mechanisms and/or folding mechanisms.

[0052] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a playhouse (100) comprises: a base member (151), and a roof member (152); wherein the base member (151) comprises: a first side -wall (101), a second side-wall (102), a third side-wall (103), and a fourth side-wall (104); wherein the first side-wall (101) is permanently connected to the second side-wall (102) via at least a first hinge (171) that folds and unfolds the first side-wall

(101) relative to the second side-wall (102); wherein the second side-wall (102) is permanently connected to the third side-wall (103) via at least a second hinge (172) that folds and unfolds the second side- wall (102) relative to the third side-wall (103); wherein the third side- wall (103) is permanently connected to the fourth side- wall (104) via at least a third hinge (173) that folds and unfolds the third side-wall (103) relative to the fourth side-wall (104); wherein the fourth side- wall (104) is permanently connected to the first side-wall (101) via at least a fourth hinge (174) that folds and unfolds the fourth side-wall (104) relative to the first side-wall (101); wherein the roof member (152) comprises: a first roof-panel (141), and a second roof-panel (142); wherein the first roof-panel (141) is permanently connected to the second roof -panel (142) via at least a fifth hinge (143) that folds and unfolds the first roof-panel (141) relative to the second roof-panel (142).

[0053] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the second side-wall

(102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the fourth side- wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non- foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a first sub-panel (101A) and a second sub-panel (101B), wherein the first sub-panel (101A) is permanently connected to the second sub-panel (101B) via at least a sixth hinge (176) that folds and unfolds the first sub-panel (101A) of the first side-wall (101) relative to the second sub-panel (101B) of the first side-wall (101).

[0054] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the fourth side- wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non- foldable into multiple sub-panels.

[0055] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the fourth side- wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non- foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a first sub-panel (101A) and a second sub-panel (101B), wherein the first sub-panel (101A) is permanently connected to the second sub-panel (101B) via at least a sixth hinge (176) that folds and unfolds the first sub-panel (101A) of the first side-wall (101) relative to the second sub-panel (101B) of the first side-wall (101); wherein the third side- wall (103 A) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a third sub-panel (103 A) and a fourth sub-panel (103B), wherein the third sub-panel (103A) and the fourth sub-panel (103B) are on a same plane but do not touch each other and are spaced apart from each other by an aperture (131); wherein both (i) a top edge of the third sub-panel (103A), and (ii) a top edge of the fourth sub-panel (103B), are connected to a single top-side flap unit (134).

[0056] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the fourth side- wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non- foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a first sub-panel (101A) and a second sub-panel (101B), wherein the first sub-panel (101A) is permanently connected to the second sub-panel (101B) via at least a sixth hinge (176) that folds and unfolds the first sub-panel (101A) of the first side-wall (101) relative to the second sub-panel (101B) of the first side-wall (101); wherein the third side- wall (103 A) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a third sub-panel (103 A) and a fourth sub-panel (103B), wherein the third sub-panel (103A) and the fourth sub-panel (103B) are on a same plane but do not touch each other and are spaced apart from each other by an aperture (131); wherein a top edge of the third sub-panel (103A) is connected via a hinge (177 A) to a first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap-member (177 A) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap- member (177 A) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member 151 ; wherein a top edge of the fourth sub-panel (103B) is connected via a hinge (177) to a second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member 151.

[0057] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

[0058] wherein the fourth side -wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a first sub-panel (101A) and a second sub-panel (101B), wherein the first sub-panel (101A) is permanently connected to the second sub-panel (101B) via at least a sixth hinge (176) that folds and unfolds the first sub-panel (101A) of the first side-wall (101) relative to the second sub-panel (101B) of the first side-wall (101); wherein the third side- wall (103 A) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a third sub-panel (103 A) and a fourth sub-panel (103B), wherein the third sub-panel (103A) and the fourth sub-panel (103B) are on a same plane but do not touch each other and are spaced apart from each other by an aperture (131); wherein a top edge of the third sub-panel (103A) is connected via a hinge (177 A) to a first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap-member (177 A) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap- member (177 A) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member (151); wherein a top edge of the fourth sub-panel (103B) is connected via a hinge (177) to a second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member (151); wherein the first top-flap-member (177 A) is connected to the second top-flap-member (177B) via a hinge (135) which enables the first top-flap-member (177 A) and the second top- flap-member (177B) to collapse inwardly towards each other.

[0059] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a first sub-panel (101 A) and a second sub-panel (101B), wherein the first sub-panel (101A) is permanently connected to the second sub-panel (101B) via at least a sixth hinge (176) that folds and unfolds the first sub-panel (101A) of the first side-wall (101) relative to the second sub-panel (101B) of the first side-wall (101); wherein the third side-wall (103A) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a third sub-panel (103A) and a fourth sub-panel (103B), wherein the third sub-panel (103A) and the fourth sub-panel (103B) are on a same plane but do not touch each other and are spaced apart from each other by an aperture (131); wherein a top edge of the third sub-panel (103A) is connected via a hinge (177 A) to a first top-flap-member (177 A), wherein the first top-flap- member (177 A) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap-member (177 A) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member (151); wherein a top edge of the fourth sub- panel (103B) is connected via a hinge (177) to a second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top- flap-member (177B) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the second top- flap- member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member (151); wherein the first top-flap-member (177 A) is connected to the second top-flap-member (177B) via a hinge (135) which enables the first top-flap-member (177 A) and the second top-flap-member (177B) to collapse inwardly towards each other.

[0060] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the fourth side- wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non- foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises at least two inwardly-collapsible sub-panels (101A, 101B); wherein the third side-wall (103) is a folding side-wall which comprises at least two inwardly-collapsible sub-panels (103A, 103B); wherein a top edge of the first side-wall (101) is connected via hinges (177C, 177D) to a first top-flap-member (124) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177C, 177D) between (i) a first position in which the first top-flap-member (124) protrudes upwardly and engages with the roof member (152), and (ii) a second position in which the first top-flap- member (124) dis-engages from the roof member (152) and collapses downwardly and inwardly; wherein a top edge of the third side-wall (103) is connected via hinges (177A, 177B) to a second top-flap-member (134) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177A, 177B) between (i) a first position in which the second top-flap- member (134) protrudes upwardly and engages with the roof member (152), and (ii) a second position in which the second top- flap-member (134) dis-engages from the roof member (152) and collapses downwardly and inwardly.

[0061] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the second side- wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side- wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the fourth side-wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein a top edge of the second side-wall (102) is monolithically attached to a first elongated flap (162), which extends upwardly relative to the top edge of the second side-wall (102), and which is slanted relative to the second side-wall (102), and which is generally parallel to the first roof-panel (141); wherein a top edge of the fourth side-wall (104) is monolithically attached to a first elongated flap (164), which extends upwardly relative to the top edge of the fourth side-wall (104), and which is slanted relative to the fourth side- wall (104), and which is generally parallel to the second roof-panel (141).

[0062] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the fourth side- wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non- foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein a top edge of the second side-wall (102) is monolithically attached to a first elongated flap (162), which extends upwardly relative to the top edge of the second side-wall (102), and which is slanted relative to the second side-wall (102), and which is generally parallel to the first roof-panel (141); wherein a top edge of the fourth side-wall (104) is monolithically attached to a second elongated flap (164), which extends upwardly relative to the top edge of the fourth side-wall (104), and which is slanted relative to the fourth side-wall (104), and which is generally parallel to the second roof-panel (142); wherein the first elongated flap (162) engages with and secures in place the first roof- panel (141); wherein the second elongated flap (164) engages with and secures in place the second roof -panel (142).

[0063] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the first side-wall

(101) comprises: a lower-side horizontal rod (122), which comprises a first sub-member (122A) and a second sub-member (122B), wherein the first sub-member (122A) and the second sub-member (122B) are interconnected via a lower-side hinge (176) that enables the first sub-member (122A) and the second sub-member (122B) to collapse inwardly towards each other.

[0064] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the second side-wall

(102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the fourth side- wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non- foldable into multiple sub-panels; wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises at least two inwardly-collapsible sub-panels (101A, 101B); wherein the third side-wall (103) is a folding side-wall which comprises at least two inwardly-collapsible sub-panels (103A, 103B); wherein a top edge of the first side-wall (101) is connected via hinges (177C, 177D) to a first top-flap-member (124) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177C, 177D); wherein a top edge of the third side-wall (103) is connected via hinges (177 A, 177B) to a second top-flap-member (134) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177 A, 177B); wherein the first side-wall (101), the third side-wall (103), the first top-flap-member (124), and the second top-flap-member (134), are collapsible and are able to fold inwardly relative to said second side-wall (102) and fourth side- wall (104).

[0065] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the first roof-panel (141) and the second roof-panel (142) are able to fold relative to each other, wherein a folded position of the roof member (152) defines a cavity into which an entirety of the base member (151) is insertable when the base member (151) is in an inwardly-collapsed position. [0066] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a top edge of the first side-wall (101) is connected via hinges (177C, 177D) to a first top-flap-member (124) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177C, 177D); wherein a top edge of the third side-wall (103) is connected via hinges (177A, 177B) to a second top-flap-member (134) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177 A, 177B); wherein the first roof-panel (141) and the second roof-panel (142) are able to fold relative to each other, wherein a folded position of the roof member (152) defines a cavity into which all of the following are insertable in an inwardly- collapsed position: the first side-wall (101), the second side-wall (102), the third side-wall (103), the fourth side-wall (104), the first top-flap-member (124), and the second top-flap- member (134).

[0067] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the roof member (152) comprises: a first roof-flap (141A) that is generally perpendicular to the first roof-panel (141); a second roof-flap (141B) that is generally perpendicular to the first roof-panel (141); a third roof-flap (141C) that is generally perpendicular to the first roof-panel (141); wherein the first roof-flap (141A) is generally perpendicular to the second roof-flap (141B); wherein the second roof-flap (141B) is generally perpendicular to the third roof-flap (141C); a fourth roof-flap (142A) that is generally perpendicular to the second roof-panel (142); a fifth roof- flap (142B) that is generally perpendicular to the second roof-panel (142); a sixth roof-flap (142C) that is generally perpendicular to the second roof -panel (142); wherein the fourth roof-flap (142A) is generally perpendicular to the fifth roof-flap (142B); wherein the fifth roof-flap (142B) is generally perpendicular to the sixth roof-flap (142C); wherein the second roof-flap (141B) is generally parallel to the fifth roof-flap (142B); wherein the second roof- flap (141B) is generally parallel to the fifth hinge (143); wherein the fifth roof-flap (142B) is generally parallel to the fifth hinge (143).

[0068] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the first roof-flap (141A), the second roof-flap (141B), the third roof-flap (141C), the fourth roof-flap (142A), the fifth roof-flap (142B), the sixth roof-flap (142C), the first roof-panel (141), and the second roof -panel (142), define a cavity upon folding inwardly the first roof-panel (141) towards the second roof -panel (142); wherein said cavity in the roof member (152) is able to store therein an entirety of the base member (151) in an inwardly-collapsed position.

[0069] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, an inwardly-folded position of the roof member (152) defines a cavity which is capable of storing therein: the first side- wall (101) which is inwardly-collapsed, while being interconnected to the second side- wall (102) which is monolithic and non-collapsed, while being interconnected to the third side-wall (103) which is inwardly-collapsed, while being interconnected to the fourth side- wall (104) which is monolithic and non-collapsed, while being connected to the first side-wall (101) which is inwardly-collapsed.

[0070] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the playhouse (100) is formed of plastic. In some embodiments, the entire playhouse (100) and all its components and connectors, are formed of plastic. In some embodiments, the entire playhouse (100) and all its components and connectors, are formed by injection molding of plastic. Other suitable materials may be used.

[0071] In some embodiments of the present invention, regions and/or portions and/or elements and/or components may have various scales and/or ratios and/or dimensions and/or sizes, such that the elements shown in the Figures, are not necessarily drawn to scale, and are not intended to limit the present invention. The present invention comprises and includes any combination of parameters and/or features that is disclosed in the text and/or is shown in any of the drawings, including the particular values and/or sizes and/or ratios that are disclosed in the text, and including the particular ratios and/or scales that are actually shown in the Figures, and including any other suitable value that is disclosed in this text and/or in any of the drawings. However, in some embodiments of the present invention, the articles or components shown in the drawings have the exact scale or ratio(s) that is (or are) shown in the drawing(s) and which may be relied upon; such that the present invention does indeed comprise, among various other implementations and embodiments and ratios, also and/or at least the exact scale(s) and/or exact ratio(s) among components or dimensions as actually shown in the drawings.

[0072] Functions, operations, components and/or features described herein with reference to one or more embodiments, may be combined with, or may be utilized in combination with, one or more other functions, operations, components and/or features described herein with reference to one or more other embodiments, or vice versa.

[0073] While certain features of some embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents may occur to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, the claims are intended to cover all such modifications, substitutions, changes, and equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A playhouse (100), comprising:

a base member (151), and a roof member (152);

wherein the base member (151) comprises: a first side-wall (101), a second side-wall (102), a third side-wall (103), and a fourth side-wall (104);

wherein the first side-wall (101) is permanently connected to the second side-wall

(102) via at least a first hinge (171) that folds and unfolds the first side-wall (101) relative to the second side-wall (102);

wherein the second side-wall (102) is permanently connected to the third side-wall

(103) via at least a second hinge (172) that folds and unfolds the second side-wall (102) relative to the third side -wall (103);

wherein the third side-wall (103) is permanently connected to the fourth side-wall

(104) via at least a third hinge (173) that folds and unfolds the third side-wall (103) relative to the fourth side-wall (104);

wherein the fourth side-wall (104) is permanently connected to the first side-wall (101) via at least a fourth hinge (174) that folds and unfolds the fourth side-wall (104) relative to the first side- wall (101);

wherein the roof member (152) comprises: a first roof-panel (141), and a second roof- panel (142);

wherein the first roof -panel (141) is permanently connected to the second roof -panel (142) via at least a fifth hinge (143) that folds and unfolds the first roof-panel (141) relative to the second roof-panel (142).

2. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side- wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

wherein the fourth side-wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a first sub- panel (101A) and a second sub-panel (101B), wherein the first sub-panel (101A) is permanently connected to the second sub-panel (101B) via at least a sixth hinge (176) that folds and unfolds the first sub-panel (101A) of the first side-wall (101) relative to the second sub-panel (101B) of the first side-wall (101).

3. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side- wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

wherein the fourth side-wall (104) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side-wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels.

4. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side- wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a first sub- panel (101A) and a second sub-panel (101B), wherein the first sub-panel (101A) is permanently connected to the second sub-panel (101B) via at least a sixth hinge (176) that folds and unfolds the first sub-panel (101A) of the first side-wall (101) relative to the second sub-panel (101B) of the first side-wall (101);

wherein the third side-wall (103A) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a third sub- panel (103A) and a fourth sub-panel (103B), wherein the third sub-panel (103A) and the fourth sub-panel (103B) are on a same plane but do not touch each other and are spaced apart from each other by an aperture (131);

wherein both (i) a top edge of the third sub-panel (103A), and (ii) a top edge of the fourth sub-panel (103B), are connected to a single top-side flap unit (134).

5. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side- wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a first sub- panel (101A) and a second sub-panel (101B), wherein the first sub-panel (101A) is permanently connected to the second sub-panel (101B) via at least a sixth hinge (176) that folds and unfolds the first sub-panel (101A) of the first side-wall (101) relative to the second sub-panel (101B) of the first side-wall (101); wherein the third side-wall (103A) is a folding side-wall which comprises: a third sub- panel (103A) and a fourth sub-panel (103B), wherein the third sub-panel (103A) and the fourth sub-panel (103B) are on a same plane but do not touch each other and are spaced apart from each other by an aperture (131);

wherein a top edge of the third sub-panel (103 A) is connected via a hinge (177 A) to a first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap-member (177 A) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap- member (177 A) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member 151 ;

wherein a top edge of the fourth sub-panel (103B) is connected via a hinge (177) to a second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member 151.

6. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side- wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

wherein a top edge of the third sub-panel (103 A) is connected via a hinge (177 A) to a first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap-member (177 A) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap- member (177 A) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member (151); wherein a top edge of the fourth sub-panel (103B) is connected via a hinge (177) to a second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member (151);

wherein the first top-flap-member (177 A) is connected to the second top-flap-member (177B) via a hinge (135) which enables the first top-flap-member (177A) and the second top- flap-member (177B) to collapse inwardly towards each other.

7. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side- wall which comprises: a first sub-panel (101A) and a second sub-panel (101B), wherein the first sub-panel (101A) is permanently connected to the second sub-panel (101B) via at least a sixth hinge (176) that folds and unfolds the first sub-panel (101A) of the first side-wall (101) relative to the second sub-panel (101B) of the first side-wall (101);

wherein a top edge of the third sub-panel (103 A) is connected via a hinge (177 A) to a first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap-member (177 A) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the first top-flap-member (177A), wherein the first top-flap- member (177 A) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member (151);

wherein a top edge of the fourth sub-panel (103B) is connected via a hinge (177) to a second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to extend upwardly and slanted relative to the second top-flap-member (177B), wherein the second top-flap-member (177B) is able to fold inwardly and downwardly towards a cavity defined within the base member (151);

8. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side- wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

wherein the first side-wall (101) is a folding side-wall which comprises at least two inwardly-collapsible sub-panels (101 A, 101 B);

wherein the third side-wall (103) is a folding side-wall which comprises at least two inwardly-collapsible sub-panels (103 A, 103B);

wherein a top edge of the first side-wall (101) is connected via hinges (177C, 177D) to a first top-flap-member (124) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177C, 177D) between (i) a first position in which the first top-flap-member (124) protrudes upwardly and engages with the roof member (152), and (ii) a second position in which the first top-flap-member (124) dis-engages from the roof member (152) and collapses downwardly and inwardly; wherein a top edge of the third side-wall (103) is connected via hinges (177A, 177B) to a second top-flap-member (134) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177A, 177B) between (i) a first position in which the second top-flap-member (134) protrudes upwardly and engages with the roof member (152), and (ii) a second position in which the second top- flap-member (134) dis-engages from the roof member (152) and collapses downwardly and inwardly.

9. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side- wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

wherein a top edge of the second side-wall (102) is monolithically attached to a first elongated flap (162), which extends upwardly relative to the top edge of the second side-wall (102), and which is slanted relative to the second side- wall (102), and which is generally parallel to the first roof-panel (141);

wherein a top edge of the fourth side-wall (104) is monolithically attached to a first elongated flap (164), which extends upwardly relative to the top edge of the fourth side-wall (104), and which is slanted relative to the fourth side-wall (104), and which is generally parallel to the second roof-panel (141).

10. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side- wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

wherein a top edge of the fourth side-wall (104) is monolithically attached to a second elongated flap (164), which extends upwardly relative to the top edge of the fourth side-wall (104), and which is slanted relative to the fourth side-wall (104), and which is generally parallel to the second roof-panel (142);

wherein the first elongated flap (162) engages with and secures in place the first roof- panel (141);

wherein the second elongated flap (164) engages with and secures in place the second roof-panel (142).

11. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the first side-wall (101) comprises:

a lower-side horizontal rod (122), which comprises a first sub-member (122A) and a second sub-member (122B), wherein the first sub-member (122A) and the second sub- member (122B) are interconnected via a lower-side hinge (176) that enables the first sub- member (122A) and the second sub-member (122B) to collapse inwardly towards each other.

12. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the second side-wall (102) is a rigid monolithic non-folding side- wall that is non-foldable into multiple sub-panels;

wherein a top edge of the first side-wall (101) is connected via hinges (177C, 177D) to a first top-flap-member (124) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177C, 177D); wherein a top edge of the third side-wall (103) is connected via hinges (177A, 177B) to a second top-flap-member (134) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177 A, 177B); wherein the first side-wall (101), the third side-wall (103), the first top-flap-member (124), and the second top-flap-member (134), are collapsible and are able to fold inwardly relative to said second side-wall (102) and fourth side- wall (104).

13. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the first roof-panel (141) and the second roof-panel (142) are able to fold relative to each other, wherein a folded position of the roof member (152) defines a cavity into which an entirety of the base member (151) is insertable when the base member (151) is in an inwardly-collapsed position.

14. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein a top edge of the first side- wall (101) is connected via hinges (177C, 177D) to a first top-flap-member (124) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177C, 177D);

wherein a top edge of the third side-wall (103) is connected via hinges (177A, 177B) to a second top-flap-member (134) which is able to rotate about the hinges (177 A, 177B); wherein the first roof -panel (141) and the second roof -panel (142) are able to fold relative to each other, wherein a folded position of the roof member (152) defines a cavity into which all of the following are insertable in an inwardly-collapsed position: the first side- wall (101), the second side-wall (102), the third side-wall (103), the fourth side-wall (104), the first top-flap-member (124), and the second top-flap-member (134).

15. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the roof member (152) comprises:

a first roof-flap (141A) that is generally perpendicular to the first roof-panel (141); a second roof-flap (141B) that is generally perpendicular to the first roof-panel (141); a third roof-flap (141C) that is generally perpendicular to the first roof-panel (141); wherein the first roof-flap (141A) is generally perpendicular to the second roof-flap (141B);

wherein the second roof-flap (141B) is generally perpendicular to the third roof-flap (141C);

a fourth roof-flap (142A) that is generally perpendicular to the second roof-panel

(142);

a fifth roof-flap (142B) that is generally perpendicular to the second roof -panel (142); a sixth roof-flap (142C) that is generally perpendicular to the second roof-panel (142); wherein the fourth roof-flap (142A) is generally perpendicular to the fifth roof-flap (142B);

wherein the fifth roof -flap (142B) is generally perpendicular to the sixth roof-flap (142C);

wherein the second roof-flap (141B) is generally parallel to the fifth roof-flap (142B); wherein the second roof-flap (141B) is generally parallel to the fifth hinge (143); wherein the fifth roof-flap (142B) is generally parallel to the fifth hinge (143).

16. The playhouse (100) of claim 15, wherein the first roof-flap (141A), the second roof- flap (141B), the third roof-flap (141C), the fourth roof-flap (142A), the fifth roof-flap (142B), the sixth roof-flap (142C), the first roof-panel (141), and the second roof-panel (142), define a cavity upon folding inwardly the first roof-panel (141) towards the second roof-panel (142); wherein said cavity in the roof member (152) is able to store therein an entirety of the base member (151) in an inwardly-collapsed position.

17. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein an inwardly-folded position of the roof member (152) defines a cavity which is capable of storing therein: the first side-wall (101) which is inwardly-collapsed, while being interconnected to the second side- wall (102) which is monolithic and non-collapsed, while being interconnected to the third side-wall (103) which is inwardly-collapsed, while being interconnected to the fourth side-wall (104) which is monolithic and non-collapsed, while being connected to the first side-wall (101) which is inwardly-collapsed.

18. The playhouse (100) of claim 1, wherein the playhouse (100) is formed of plastic.