WO2017020066A1

WO2017020066A1 - Building block

Info

Publication number: WO2017020066A1
Application number: PCT/AU2016/000271
Authority: WO
Inventors: Colin Stephen KELLY
Original assignee: Pb Management Services Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2015-08-06
Filing date: 2016-08-08
Publication date: 2017-02-09

Abstract

A building block having a first surface and a receiving portion recessed within the first surface for receiving a connecting element, wherein the receiving portion is adapted such that when receiving the connecting element, a movement of the building block relative to the connecting element is restricted to one degree of freedom; and that when the building block is connected to a second building block using the connecting element, the first surface is in flush relation with a surface of the second building block.

Description

BUILDING BLOCK

PRIORITY DOCUMENTS

[0001 ] The present application claims priority from Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2016902370 titled "Building block" and filed on 17 June 2016 and Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2015903 154 titled "Building block" and filed on 6 August 2015, the content of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to building blocks for building structures. BACKGROUND

[0003] When building a structure of any size, it can be difficult and time consuming if the builder(s) do not have access to appropriate materials, tools and facilities or do not have a suitable level of experience and craftsmanship.

[0004] Without appropriate materials, tools, facilities and suitable levels of experience and

craftsmanship, the finished product can be quite a poor representation of what the builder(s) had in mind.

[0005] Efforts to improve the building process in areas of speed, simplicity, cost, quality, efficiency and effectiveness is a motivator behind many products and processes, and is an area of continual

improvement.

[0006] The present invention offers a new scalable building block and a new building block system with numerous potential applications, both large and small scale. Examples include but are not limited to buildings, sheds, cubby houses, verandas, fences, furniture, shelving, cupboards, science experiments, appliances, electronics, robotics and toys.

SUMMARY

[0007] In a first aspect the present disclosure provides a building block having a first surface and a receiving portion recessed within the first surface for receiving a connecting element, wherein the receiving portion is adapted such that when receiving the connecting element, a movement of the building block relative to the connecting element is restricted to one degree of freedom; and that when the building block is connected to a second building block using the connecting element, the first surface is in flush relation with a surface of the second building block. [0008] In another form, the receiving portion includes a hole and a groove for receiving the connecting element.

[0009] In another form, the receiving portion includes a hole and a plurality of grooves joining at the hole for receiving the connecting element.

[0010] In another form, the plurality of grooves spaced equally and extending radially from the hole.

[001 1 ] In another form, the building block includes a second receiving portion recessed within the first surface of the building block.

[0012] In another form, the building block includes a second surface on a different plane to the first, and having a receiving portion within its surface for receiving a second connecting element, wherein the receiving portion is adapted such that when receiving the second connecting element, a movement of the building block relative to the second connecting element is restricted to one degree of freedom; and wherein when the receiving portions within the first and second surfaces receive the connecting element and the second connecting element respectively, movement of the building block relative to the connecting elements is prevented.

[0013] In another form, the receiving portion includes a hole extending through the building block from one surface to another, shaped to receive an elongate rod; and that when the building block is connected to at least one further building block using the elongate rod, the movement of the building block relative to the elongate rod is restricted to no more than two degrees of freedom.

[0014] In another form, the hole features a latch mechanism and the elongate rod features a

corresponding toothed surface, wherein when the elongate rod is inserted into the hole, the toothed surface will latch with the latching mechanism in a ratchet-like fashion, so as to prevent the elongate rod from being withdrawn from the hole.

[0015] In another form, the building block includes one or more receiving portions recessed within each surface.

[0016] In another form, the building block includes two square surfaces, each square surface having a receiving portion located at the centre of the square and recessed within the surface for receiving a connecting element, each receiving portion including a hole and eight grooves spaced equally extending radially from the hole the building block further including four rectangular surfaces, each rectangular surface includes two repetitions of the structures of any one of the two square surfaces. [0017] In a second aspect the present disclosure provides a building block system, including a plurality of the building blocks as disclosed above and a connecting element wherein part of the connecting element is configured to conform with the shape of the receiving portion of the building block.

[0018] In another form, the connecting element is further configured to be received within two adjacent receiving portions of two adjacent building blocks, such that when the surfaces of the two adjacent building blocks are flush, the connecting element is received within the two adjacent receiving portions.

[0019] In another form, a plurality of connecting elements are connected to an elongate strip.

[0020] In another form, the connecting element is further configured to include a cylindrical portion for insertion into a hole formed in the receiving portion of the building block.

[0021] In another form, the building block system further includes an elongate rod, wherein the rod is configured to be partially received within the hole.

[0022] In another form, the hole features a latch mechanism and the elongate rod features a corresponding toothed surface, wherein when the elongate rod is inserted into the hole, the toothed surface will latch with the latching mechanism in a ratchet-like fashion, so as to prevent the elongate rod from being withdrawn from the hole.

[0023] In another form, the elongate rod also features a smooth surface, wherein when the elongate rod is able to be rotated such that the toothed surface of the elongate rod will disengage with the latch mechanism, and willow allow for the elongate rod to be withdrawn from the hole.

[0024] In another form, the connecting element is further configured to include a toothed surface, wherein when the connecting element is inserted into the hole, the toothed surface of the connecting element will latch the latching mechanism in a ratchet-like fashion, so as to prevent the connecting element from being withdrawn from the hole.

[0025] In another form the building block system further includes a plate, wherein the plate features a surface and at least one receiving portion disposed within the surface for accommodating the connecting element.

[0026] In another form, the plate surface mirrors the structure of the surface of the building block, so as to allow a join using corresponding connection elements. [0027] In another form, the building block system further includes a connecting plate, wherein the plate features at least one connecting element protruding from its surface for direct engagement with a corresponding receiving portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0028] Embodiments of the present invention will be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0029] Figure 1 is an isometric perspective view of a building block according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0030] Figure 2 is an isometric perspective view of a building block according to an alternative illustrative embodiment;

[0031 ] Figure 3 is an isometric perspective view of a connecting strip according to an illustrative embodiment;

[0032] Figure 4 is an isometric perspective view of a connecting element according to a further alternative illustrative embodiment;

[0033] Figure 5 is an isometric perspective view of a plate according to an illustrative embodiment; [0034] Figure 6 is a cross sectional view of a building block;

[0035] Figure 7 is a schematic of a rod element and a latching element according to an illustrative embodiment; and

[0036] Figures 8 to 34 depict various embodiments of building blocks.

[0037] In the following description, like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the figures.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0038] Referring now to Figure 1 , there is shown a rectangular building block 1 according to an illustrative embodiment comprising four generally flat rectangular surfaces 3 and two generally flat square surfaces 15. The rectangular surfaces 3 each having four spaced apart receiving portions 5 recessed within each surface and the square surfaces 15 each having one recei ving portion 5 recessed within each surface. The receiving portion in this embodiment is a hole located at the intersection of six grooves spaced equally and extending radially from the hole. As can be seen, the grooves around each respective receiving portion 5 are configured in a star-like pattern and are aligned such that the hole and groove pattern of each receiving portion 5 is repeated along the length of each rectangular surface 3.

[0039] The configuration of the hole and groove pattern of the receiving portion 5 is designed such that when a connecting element is inserted within the receiving portion there is a transition fit where the connecting element can be pushed into the receiving portion and will be held in place due to friction between the contacting surfaces of the receiving portion and connecting element.

[0040] In another embodiment, an adhesive or mechanical fastener could also be used to retain the connecting element in the receiving portion.

[0041] When a connecting element is inserted in the receiving portion, it is intended that the connecting element engages with the hole and the grooves of the receiving portion such that relative movement between the building block and the connecting element is restricted to a single degree of freedom, which is along the axis perpendicular to the surface of the building block that the receiving portion is recessed within.

[0042] The flat surfaces of the building block are intended to be able to be placed in flush relation with similar surfaces of other building blocks, such that their corresponding surfaces are touching and parallel, and when a connecting element is inserted into opposing recei ving portions of each building block, the connecting element is completely embedded within the two receiving portions, and holds the two building blocks in place, such that relative movement between the building blocks is restricted to a single degree of freedom along the axis perpendicular to the flush surfaces of the building blocks.

[0043] The building block also features circular holes which are located at the centre of each receiving portion. Each circular hole extends through the building block from one surface to another and is shaped to receive an elongate rod.

[0044] In another embodiment, an adhesive or mechanical fastener could also be used to retain the elongate rod in the circular holes.

[0045] When an elongate rod is inserted in the circular hole, the relative movement between the building block and the elongate rod is restricted to no more than two degrees of freedom. The first degree of freedom being along the axis perpendicular to the surfaces of the building block that the circular hole extends through. The second degree of freedom being rotation around the axis perpendicular to the surfaces of the building block that the circular hole extends through. [0046] Should the elongate rod be inserted into a circular hole of a second building block, the elongate rod would hold the two building blocks in place, such that relative movement between the building blocks would be restricted to two degrees of freedom, the first being along the axis perpendicular to the surfaces of the building block that the circular hole extends through, the second being rotation around the axis perpendicular to the surfaces of the building block that the circular hole extends through.

[0047] In another embodiment, the allowable rotation around the axis perpendicular to the surface of the building block could be exploited to allow the elongate rod and building block relationship to function as an axle or a hinge.

[0048] In other embodiments, the configuration of the building block 1 may differ from that illustrated. For example, the building block may be cube shaped, hexagonal, triangular, circular, or arcuate, among others. The building block may have a differing number of receiving portions disposed on each surface, the number of grooves (if any) disposed on each surface may be more or less than shown, and the pattern formed by the grooves may also differ, as could the shape of the recessed portion(s). The shape of the hole recessed in the surface as part of the receiving portion may differ from that shown, for instance, a triangular or square shaped hole would be able to receive a correspondingly shaped connecting element which would be able to similarly restrict relative movement to a single degree of freedom. The number (if any) location, size and shape of the circular and rectangular shaped holes extending from one surface to the other may also differ.

[0049] The building block could be manufactured using a variety of different materials depending on their application. The blocks could be made out of concrete, or a concrete composite (such as reinforced concrete), the holes extending through the holes could be made out of steel or another engineering metal to improve the longevity of the product. The building block could also be manufactured out of wood, a variety of polymers or composite materials. The building block material could be rigid or it could have a flexible construction.

[0050] The blocks could be manufactured in a variety of different sizes depending on their application, from small scale robotics, to large scale construction or ci vil engineering works. Building blocks could also be manufactured in long lengths, and then be cut to size depending on the application.

[0051] Referring now to Figure 2, where there is shown a building block 19 according to an alternative illustrative embodiment comprising a first surface 21 having eight receiving portions 23 recessed within the first surface 21. [0052] The building block 19 features additional grooves 29 extending across the surface of the building block in a lattice formation. Like the first embodiment, the building block 19 also features circular holes disposed at the centre of each receiving portion, which extend from one surface to another.

[0053] The building block 19 features a further three surfaces wherein the further surfaces also include repetitions of the same structure of the first surface. The building block 19 also features two end surfaces 37 which feature a large square hole which extends the length of the building block 19 and also feature a number of grooves disposed around the perimeter, intersecting with the grooves of the adjoining surfaces. The large square hole can feature a clip on element (not shown) to complete the block.

[0054] Referring now to Figure 3, where there is shown a connecting strip 107 according to an illustrative embodiment having at least two connecting elements 101 connecting to an elongate strip 109. The elongate strip 109 features a section of reduced cross section 1 1 1 located between each connecting element 101 wherein the connecting strip can be readily segmented into shorter length sections. The connecting strip 107 can be made available in various lengths, and reduced to shorter length sections as required.

[0055] The connecting strip 107 is to be used when connecting two or more adjacent building blocks together, where respective surfaces of the building blocks are arranged in plane with each other. One connecting element 101 of the connecting strip 107 is received within the receiving portion of one building block, and an adjacent connecting element 101 of the connecting strip 107 is received within the receiving portion of the adjacent building block, such that the elongate strip 109 retains the two building blocks in relation to each other.

[0056] Similarly to the connecting element 101 , when the connecting strip 107 is received within the receiving portion 5 and grooves of the building block 1 , it will be completely embedded such that the bottom surface 106 of the connecting elements 101 and the bottom surface of the elongate strip 109 will be in plane with the surface 3 of the building block.

[0057] Referring now to Figure 4, where there is shown a connecting element 121 according to an alternative illustrative embodiment comprising two cylindrical sections 123 configured to be received within the circular holes of the building block 1. The connecting element 121 also comprising a middle section 125 comprising a plurality of evenly spaced radially extending fingers 127 configured to be received within the receiving portions 5, and grooves of the building block 1.

[0058] This connecting element 121 is configured for use when the flat surfaces of two building blocks are placed in flush relation with each other. The connecting element is configured to be received within opposing receiving portions 5 of each building block, such that the cylindrical sections 123 are received within opposing cylindrical holes 1 1 of the building blocks and the middle section 125 is partially embedded in the opposing receiving portions 5 and grooves of the building blocks so as to be completely embedded, allowing the flat surfaces to be in flush relation. Relative movement between the two building blocks is restricted to one degree of freedom, being along the axis perpendicular to the surfaces of the building block that the receiving portion is recessed within. The rotation being prevented by the radially extending fingers 127 which are received within the grooves of the building block 1.

[0059] The use of the evenly spaced radially extending fingers of the connecting elements, and the corresponding grooves of the building blocks, allows for the building blocks to be set at varying angles relative to each other. For instance, in the embodiments shown, the radially extending fingers are spaced apart with a 45 degree gap between each finger. This allows for the positioning of bl ocks relative to each other to be varied in 45 degree increments. In alternative embodiments the connecting elements and building blocks could be configured to have more or less radially extending fingers and grooves than shown.

[0060] In other embodiments the shape of the connecting elements will be configured to conform with the shape of the receiving portion of alternative building blocks such as those disclosed in Figure 2.

[0061 ] Similarly to the building blocks, the connecting elements and connecting strips could be manufactured from a variety of materials depending on their application. They could be made out of an engineering metal (such as steel or aluminium), or they could be made out of wood or a composite material. The connecting element material could be rigid or it could have a flexible construction.

[0062] Referring now to Figure 5, where there is shown a plate 201 according to an illustrative embodiment comprising a surface 203 having eight receiving portions 205 recessed within the surface 203, each receiving portion 205 including a hole 207 and six grooves 209 spaced equally and extending radially from the hole. In this embodiment, the grooves 209 of the respective receiving portions 205 intersect with each other in a repeating pattern. The plate 201 also features circular holes 21 1 located at and recessed into the centre of each receiving portion 205.

[0063] In other embodiments, the plate surface 203 could be configured to have a similar pattern to those shown in the alternative building block embodiments shown in Figure 2.

[0064] In other embodiments, the plate could be made in differing dimensions or shapes, and could be made in other non-planar configurations.

[0065] In other embodiments, the plate could feature connecting elements protruding from its surface for direct engagement with a building block. [0066] In other erabodiments, a plurality of plates could join together face to face with connecting elements in between to construct larger shapes of various forms. Overlapping joins will provide additional strength.

[0067] In other embodiments, the plate could feature connecting recesses or extrusions only at the edges or in certain areas to facilitate joins.

[0068] Similarly to the building blocks, the plate 201 could be manufactured using a variety of different materials depending on its application. The plate could be made out of concrete, or a concrete composite (such as reinforced concrete), the holes recessed into the surface 203 could be made out of steel or another engineering metal to improve the longevity of the product. The plate could also be manufactured out of wood, a variety of polymers or composite materials. The plate material could be rigid or it could have a flexible construction.

[0069] The plate can be used to provide further reinforcement to the exterior of a structure, and can be used when aligning relative angles between building blocks.

[0070] In other embodiments the plate features a variety of surface finishes and treatments, for cosmetic or functional purposes depending on the application. For example, the plate could feature a textured non- slip surface if the plate were employed as a walk way. Alternatively the plate could feature a smooth surface to allow the plate to slide relative to some other surface. In other examples the plate could have a metallic or wooden surface, smooth or textured polymer or composite material, or fabric treatment, and could be available in a variety of colours.

[0071] Figure 6 shows a cross sectional view of the cube shaped building block, which shows the circular hol es 31 1 intersecting at the centre of the building block. Also located along at least one of the circular holes 31 1 is pair of opposing latching elements 313 for engaging with a toothed surface of a rod element extending through the cylindrical hole 31 1.

[0072] Referring now to Figure 7, where there is shown a schematic of a rod element 401 and a latching component 407. The rod element 401 comprising two toothed surfaces 403 which are made up of a plurality of teeth, and two smooth surfaces 405. The latching component 407 comprises a cylindrical hole and a pair of opposing latching elements 409, and is representative of the cylindrical hole and latching elements 313 found inside the cube shaped building block of Figure 6.

[0073] The latching elements 409 and toothed surfaces 403 are configured such that when the latching elements 409 and teeth are engaged, movement of the rod element 401 is prevented. When the rod element 401 is rotated (for example 90 degrees) to disengage the latching elements 409 and toothed surfaces 403, such that the latching elements 409 rest on the smooth surfaces 405, allowing movement of the rod element 401.

[0074] In an alternative embodiment the toothed surface 403 and latching elements 409 could be configured to perform as a ratchet, allowing the rod element 401 to move in one direction, but not the other. Similarly to the previous embodiment, when the rod element 401 is rotated ninety degrees, the latching elements 409 and toothed surfaces 403 are disengaged, and the latching elements rest on the smooth surfaces 405, allowing movement of the rod element 401 in both directions.

[0075] The use of the latching elements 313 and the toothed surface 403 on a rod element 401 enables two or more building blocks to be held together such that relative movement between the building blocks is prevented along the axis perpendicular to the surfaces of the building blocks that the cylindrical hole extends through.

[0076] In other embodiments, the same latching effect could be achieved with a single latching element and a single toothed surface.

[0077] In other embodiments, the connecting elements could also be configured to have a toothed surface for engagement with the latching elements.

[0078] Figures 8 to 34 depict various embodiments of building blocks.

[0079] Figure 8 depicts two half blocks (top and bottom). Two half blocks can be combined to form a cubical body as shown in Figure 8. A longer version is shown too. Figure 9 shows other variants of building blocks.

[0080] Figure 10 depicts an embodiment of a multi-directional point which allows angled connections. In this embodiment, there is provided a ball and a socket. In this embodiment, the ball section is connected directly onto a core (beam).

[0081] There can also be sheet attachments for surface coverings. For example, one or more press studs are attached a sheet (which can be a plywood, acrylic, aluminium etc.) The one or more press studs can then be received by one or more recesses in one or more blocks. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 1 , a sheet can be attached to a clip, which can be clipped onto a core (beam).

[0082] In the embodiment shown in Figures 12A to 12F, the primary building block has recessed portions in its surfaces in order to receive reciprocal connecting elements that are inserted into the recesses. In one form, the building block includes recesses in at least two of its surfaces, preferably but not necessarily, on opposite sides of the block. This creates a strong, rigid connection to a second block using connecting elements that are inserted into the recesses on the blocks, with each of the connecting inserts crossing the join between the adjacent blocks. The blocks are rigid so as to hold their shape under compressive forces, and have sufficient tensile strength so they can successfully anchor the connecting elements under tensile loads. The blocks can consist of various shapes and sizes, and the recessed portions and connecting inserts can take various shapes and forms. In the embodiment shown, the recessed portions were positioned close to the outer boundaries of the surfaces so as to minimise leverage forces experienced by the connecting inserts if the blocks were to be pri ed apart.

[0083] In the same embodiment, the building block is such that it can be placed onto a beam/tube, and fixed onto the beam/tube by connecting to a second block on the other side of the beam. In other words, two of the "half blocks of Figure 12A can be used to surround a beam/tube. A connecting element or insert, such as that shown in Figure 13, can be used to attach the blocks to each other, preventing their release from the beam. Using this connecting option keeps the remaining recesses of the block free to connect to other parts and other blocks, however these recessed portions could also be used to further connect the blocks together if desired. In either case, if the blocks around the core are then attached to other blocks or parts using more connecting elements, those same connecting elements can further reinforce the connection between the blocks around the core. Additionally, the half block can also be attached singularly to only one side of the beam with a suitably shaped mechanism (see Figure 24 for example), and this could further reduce costs for the user.

[0084] Referring to the blocks attached around a beam/tube mentioned in previous paragraph, it is possible, depending on factors such as materials used and tightness of the fit, that motion is still possible along the length of the beam in a sliding fashion. There are some cases where this is desirable, but normally it is not. In order to prevent motion along the beam, a recessed pit on the under (inner) side of the block is provided to receive a pad of high friction. Depending on scale and materials used, the pad could be rubber, spikes, or other suitable selection. The recessed portion could also be extended up the sides of the interior of the block, if the additional centre recess on the outer sides of the block were removed to create the space to do so.

[0085] In the block embodiment of Figures 12A to 12F, the core section has been made square in order to receive a plain square beam/tube for rigidity (example, see Figure 19). Other shapes are possible. While, the intended beam does not include any fixing/attaching patterns in its profile because this would reduce the strength of the beam, the invention still works with different types of beam/tube. Since the beam is hollow, it allows for elements of the construction system to be inserted into the beam as an attaching mechanism. It also allows for the beams to be used as conduits for cables, tubes, pipes and other things. [0086] In the block embodiment of Figures 12A to 12F, the 'hash' shaped receiving portions in the surfaces were chosen to maximise the strength of connections between blocks or other parts. They are positioned towards the outer edges of the blocks dimensions rather than toward the centre, in order to better withstand leverage forces that can be encountered when the blocks are being pulled apart with a bending motion. The corresponding 'hash' shaped insert is shown in Figure 15. Example for other variants can be found in Figures 14, and 16 to 18.

[0087] In the block embodiment of Figures 12A to 12F, the receiving portions are of sufficient depth so that the friction between the connecting element and receiving portion can keep the connecting element in place, prevent warping of the connecting element due to lateral stresses that could result in the element popping out of place, and allow a connecting element of sufficient size and therefore strength to enter the recess.

[0088] In an alternative embodiment, the block of Figure 12 when joined as a cube could feature a hole in the centre of each face, excluding those faces where the beam passes through. Each half block would therefore have one complete hole on the bottom and a half-hole on either side. The hole could serve many purposes such as to receive a connecting element such as pin, rivet or screw, or could be used to hold an axel for a rotating part such as a wheel, pulley or hinge. It could also function as part of a slider.

[0089] The blocks and associated parts could be manufactured in a variety of different sizes and materials depending on their application, from small applications such as robotics, mid-sized applications such as furniture, cubby houses or real houses, to large applications such as construction or civil engineering works. It could be used to build useful functional products, prototypes, academic projects, toys, or to setup experiments.

[0090] Figure 20 depicts an example of several beams, blocks and connecting elements working together.

[0091] Figure 21 is the same example shown in Figure 20, but from a different angle. [0092] Figure 22 depicts an example of two blocks connected around a beam.

[0093] Figure 23 depicts an exploded view of the example shown in Figure 22. It can be seen that an extension-insert of Figure 29 had been used along with two block connectors.

[0094] Figure 24 depicts an embodiment of a connector that can be used to connect a single block to a beam, without the use of a second block. [0095] Figure 25 depicts an example of a beam insert that has the block pattern on one face only. This would allow standard connection with a connector block, although the number of connections possible would be limited.

[0096] Figure 26 depicts an example of a connector that can be used to connect two of the blocks shown in Figure 12.

[0097] Figure 27 depicts an example of an edge joining-spacer part. Surface tiles (coverings) can be attached to the outside surfaces with double sided tape or other method. The notch on the outside edge can be used to align the tiles.

[0098] Figure 28 depicts an example of a corner joining-spacer. Surface tiles can be attached to the outside surfaces with double sided tape or other method. The notches on the outside edges can be used to align the tiles.

[0099] Figure 29 depicts an example of a beam extension insert. It is inserted into the end of a beam to extend its length slightly. The wider section at the end of the part (optional) is reciprocal to the inside recess of the block of Figure 12, and acts to prevent the attached blocks from slipping.

[00100] Figure 30 also depicts an example of a beam extension as with Figure 29, but a little longer.

[00101] Figure 31 depicts an example of a beam hinge insert. It is part of a hinge which is inserted into the end of a beam. It can be joined to another half hinge using an accompanying hinge pin.

[00102] Figure 32 depicts an example of a tile-beam connector used to attach surface tiles to beams using double sided tape or other means. The notch on the outer edge can be used to align the tiles as they connect. The position of the notch indicates that it is to be used on an edge.

[00103] Figure 33 depicts an example of a tile-beam connector used to attach surface tiles to beams using double sided tape or other means. The notch on the outer edge can be used to align the tiles as they connect. The position of the notch indicates that it is to be used on a flat section between the join of 2 tiles.

[00104] Figure 34 depicts another example of a joiner-spacer. It is used in various lengths to align adjacent tiles and join them together using double sided tape or other means.

[00105] The block of Figure 12A has recessed portions in all six of its surfaces, including the surfaces that accommodate the beam passing through. The configuration of the recesses and connecting elements allow for all sides of the cube to host simultaneous connections to all six of its surfaces. The two blocks that make up the cube can be connected together around the beam using the same recesses and connecting inserts that are used to connect adjoining blocks or parts to the cube, and can perform these two functions simultaneously. The block of Figure 12 A further has an additional (optional) recess in the centre which can be used with a suitably shaped connecting insert to join two blocks together.

[00106] The connecting inserts are made in the same shape as the recessed portions of the block, so as to fit snugly into the recesses. They should experience sufficient friction so as not to fall out of the recesses, but are still able to be inserted without excessive effort, and even removed if desired - for example with the help of a tool such as a screwdri ver to pry them out. A small chamfer or such on the ends of the connectors could make them easier to remove.

[00107] Multiple connectors used on different planes, and running in different directions, can provide enormous strength through interlocking. Adhesives or additional mechanical fastener could be used to help secure the connecting inserts into place, but this is unnecessary for most applications.

[00108] The connecting inserts may be used in a range of lengths and widths. Longer lengths and widths can span across more connecting blocks or elements, but shorter lengths can avoid unwanted excess or overhang of connecting inserts. The beams are such that they can pass through the grid holes of the connecting elements, but it will not be possible to slide the beam through the centre of a square connector if the ends of the beam are already blocked off with other connections. Therefore, half-width connecting inserts that occupy only one side of a particular face of a block can be used alongside a beam even when a beam is already in place. Provi sion could be made to assist cutting of the connecting inserts to size as required, by providing for example a small notch or marking where the cut should be made. It may be better not to do this as it could compromise the strength of the connecting insert.

[00109] If the connecting inserts are made twice the thickness of the recess depth, then in addition to providing a connection by bridging the join along the length of the connecting insert between adjacent blocks, it can also bridge the join between blocks along the depth of the connector (a much smaller span). When bridging a join between blocks along its depth, the insert is sandwiched between blocks. This connection prevents lateral sliding between the faces of adjoining blocks, and can add rigidity and strength to a join.

[001 10] Connecting inserts equal to the depth of a recess rather than twice the depth can also be used, but in the interests of reducing the number of parts and for simplicity it may be beneficial to use only thicknesses of twice the depth of a recess. [001 1 1 ] The beam end-extensions shown in Figures 29 and 30 can be used to extend a beam on one or both ends. The protrusions near the ends of the extensions fill the recess on the underside of the block of Figure 12 intended for a high friction braking mechanism. In this case, since the protrusions are part of the extension it will prevent motion along the length of the beam. It is attached by inserting into the centre of the beam

[001 12] A simple beam joiner which inserts into the middle of 2 adjoining beams can be used to join 2 beam sections.

[001 13] The end-block insert of Figure 25 has one face of the standard connector block, suitable for standard connection to another block, and an insert section that allows connection onto the end of a beam. While not completely necessary, this part can increase build speed and reduce costs, but has reduced functional options compared to the standard block.

[001 14] A range of surface coverings can be used as part of the building system to enhance functionality, structural integrity and aesthetics.

[001 15] A surface covering with reciprocal recesses or extrusions consistent with the recess patterns of the blocks and connecting inserts can be used, and connected to the structure by way of the connecting inserts. Adhesives or mechanical clips could reinforce the connection to prevent release from the structure.

[001 16] Simple, flat sheets of various materials and shapes can be used for the surface covering, and attached to holding elements with double sided tape or other suitable means. This allows for many variations of materials and finishes such as aluminium, a variety of polymers and composites, plywood and more. It also allows for custom shapes and sizes to be cut with established methods such as laser cutting or other CNC cutting devices. Some other examples of how the sheets can be joined to the structure include glues, Velcro, magnets and suction cups.

[001 17] The range of flat, pre-cut shapes in conjunction with joining spacers can be used to connect the shapes in different arrangements to produce many shape variations before or after being attached to the structure. Small protrusions on the joining spacers act to align and space the tiles in a consistent fashion. The alignment protrusion will result in a small gap between the tiles, and will also plug the same gap, resulting in a neatly aligned and aesthetically pleasing finish.

[001 18] Double-sided tape or other suitable means can be used to join the spacers to the flat sheets or tiles. A protrusion on the joining spacer is used to position the tile and joiner in proper alignment prior to their surfaces being brought onto full contact. Corner joiners can be attached first followed by the side joiners, so that everything fits and is positioned correctly. The lengths of the side joiners as well as the tiles themselves can be made in a variety of lengths consistent with the units of measurement used in the blocks, beams and other parts. Some simple forms of the joining spacers are shown in Figures 27, 28 and 34.

[001 19] Some structures could be made using only tiles, joiner-spacers and appropriate double sided tapes, glues or other suitable means. Alternatively, connecting elements could be used to connect the panelled surface tiles to beams and blocks.

[00120] It is also possible to merge the joiner-spacers and the tile-beam connectors into the same part such as that shown in Figures 32 and 33. In this example, the connector fits over the beam and has a flat plane and spacing extrusion ready to receive a tile. It can come in various lengths and fits over the core and could be held by friction, tape, adhesive, clipping or clamping mechanism.

[00121 ] Simple push-on connectors such as that shown in Figures 32 and 33 can secure their position and connection to the beam(s) using two or more in different directions in an interlocking fashion. Since the position is secured when in place, it may be necessary to first attach the connectors to the beams, then the tile(s) or joining section once the connectors have been positioned, thereby locking the positions.

[00122] In another embodiment, the tiles could be attached with mechanical means such as a beam-tile connector which incorporates a notch to recei ve and hold the edge of the tile.

[00123] In another embodiment, the tiles could feature a set of holes that line up with corresponding hol es in a connector or connector block. The tiles could then be attached by way of the holes using for example a friction pin, push rivet, screw or other suitable method.

[00124] In another embodiment, press studs that mirror the face of a connector block on one side and are flat on the other, could be used as connecting elements between the block face and the tile. They could join to the block face using standard connecting inserts, and join to the tile face with glue or adhesive or the hole-pin system as mentioned in the previous paragraph. The studs could be accurately positioned on the tile face using a stencil, or aligned using the hol es if present.

[00125] Larger versions of the afore mentioned press studs could be made to facilitate joins between tiles by allowing space for two or more tiles to connect to the same press stud. Tiles could be joined in this manner either at angles or on the same plane. [00126] It may be necessary or desirable to block a small gap that may exist between tiles. In areas where a press stud is located, the press stud itself can perform this task. In other areas, T-shaped strips can be inserted into the gap, and held in place with adhesive or friction. Alternatively, this task can be carried out by parts which bridge the gap between beam and tile, such as those shown in Figures 32 and 33 for example.

[00127] A combination of methods for fixing the tiles could be employed in the same embodiment. This may be beneficial as the benefits and drawbacks of various methods are normally in different areas.

[00128] In addition to providing a surface or covering, the tiles can also serve to reinforce the strength and dimensional integrity of the structure as a whole.

[00129] It is intended that the system of building blocks, beams, connecting inserts and other associated parts would be useful for a wide range of applications. Therefore, the fundamentals discussed could be applied and extended to a range of compatible parts and auxiliary components that offer increased flexibility, options and possibilities to the user. Such additions could include angled elements, curved elements, hinged or spinning elements, mechanical and electronic modules, control modules, useful additions such as track, wheels, circuit board holders, actuators, lights and sensors.

[00130] It may be beneficial to adopt various techniques to incorporate as part of the

comprehensi ve building block system, even i f they initially seem inconsistent with the system.

Considering a diversity of options can lead to improvements in the building process in areas such as cost, speed and ease of use, and quality of finished project.

[0013 1] In order to facilitate fast, easy and accurate measurements when using the construction system, a number of methods can be employed. The parts themselves can be utilised, for example with temporary configurations of blocks, beams and connectors used to position parts accurately as they are added to the structure. Modified versions of the construction system elements could be produced to enhance the measurement process, such as temporary blocks that clamp onto the core with recesses that can accept a spacing mechanism or ruler that attaches into the inserts. More standard means can also be employed, such as rulers, spacers, laser measurers and stencils.

[00132] Throughout the specification and the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the words "comprise" and "include" and variations such as "comprising" and "including" will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers, but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers. [00133] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement of any form of suggestion that such prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

[00134] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention is not restricted in its use to the particular application described. Neither is the present invention restricted in its preferred embodiment with regard to the particular elements and/or features described or depicted herein. It will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to the embodiment or embodiments disclosed, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope of th e invention as set forth and defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A building block having a first surface and a receiving portion recessed within the first surface for receiving a connecting element, wherein the receiving portion is adapted such that when receiving the connecting element, a movement of the building block relative to the connecting element is restricted to one degree of freedom; and that when the building block is connected to a second building block using the connecting element, the first surface is in flush relation with a surface of the second building block.

2. The building block of claim 1, wherein the receiving portion includes a hole and a groove for receiving the connecting element.

3. The building block of claim 1, wherein the receiving portion includes a hole and a plurality of grooves joining at the hole for receiving the connecting element.

4. The building block of claim 3, wherein the plurality of grooves spaced equally and extending radially from the hole.

5. The building block of any one of claims 1 to 4, further including a second receiving portion recessed within the first surface of the building block.

6. The building block of any one of claims 1 to 5, further including a second surface on a different plane to the first, and having a recei ving portion within its surface for receiving a second connecting element, wherein the receiving portion is adapted such that when receiving the second connecting element, a movement of the building block relative to the second connecting element is restricted to one degree of freedom; and wherein when the receiving portions within the first and second surfaces receive the connecting element and the second connecting element respectively, movement of the building block relative to the connecting elements is prevented.

7. The building block of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the receiving portion further including a hole extending through the building block from one surface to another, shaped to receive an elongate rod; and that when the building block is connected to at least one further building block using the elongate rod, the movement of the building block relative to the elongate rod is restricted to no more than two degrees of freedom.

8. The building block of claim 7, wherein the hole features a latch mechanism and the elongate rod features a corresponding toothed surface, wherein when the elongate rod is inserted into the hole, the toothed surface will latch with the latching mechanism in a ratchet-like fashion, so as to prevent the elongate rod from being withdrawn from the hole.

9. The building block of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the building block includes one or more receiving portions recessed within each surface.

10. The building block of claim 1 , wherein the building block includes two square surfaces, each square surface having a receiving portion located at the centre of the square and recessed within the surface for receiving a connecting element, each receiving portion including a hole and eight grooves spaced equally extending radially from the hole the building block further including four rectangular surfaces, each rectangular surface includes two repetitions of the structures of any one of the two square surfaces.

1 1. A building block system, including: a plurality of the building block of any one of claims 1 to 10; a connecting element; wherein part of the connecting element is configured to conform with the shape of the receiving portion of the building block.

12. The building block system of claim 1 1 or 12, the connecting element further configured to be received within two adjacent receiving portions of two adjacent building blocks, such that when the surfaces of the two adjacent building blocks are flush, the connecting element is received within the two adjacent receiving portions.

13. The building block system of any of one of claims 1 1 to 13, wherein a plurality of connecting elements are connected to an elongate strip.

14. The building block system of any one of claims 1 1 to 13, the connecting element is further configured to include a cylindrical portion for insertion into a hole formed in the receiving portion of the building block.

15. The building block system of claim 14, further including an elongate rod; wherein the rod is configured to be partially received within the hole.

16. The building block system of claim 15, wherein the hole features a latch mechanism and the elongate rod features a corresponding toothed surface, wherein when the elongate rod is inserted into the hole, the toothed surface will latch with the latching mechanism in a ratchet-like fashion, so as to prevent the elongate rod from being withdrawn from the hole.

17. The building block system of claim 16, wherein the elongate rod also features a smooth surface, wherein when the elongate rod is able to be rotated such that the toothed surface of the elongate rod will disengage with the latch mechanism, and willow allow for the elongate rod to be withdrawn from the hole.

18. The building block system of claim 15 or 16, wherein the connecting element is further configured to include a toothed surface, wherein when the connecting element is inserted into the hole, the toothed surface of the connecting element will latch the latching mechanism in a ratchet-like fashion, so as to prevent the connecting element from being withdrawn from the hole.

19. The building block system of any one of claim 1 1 to 18, further including a plate, wherein the plate features a surface and at least one receiving portion disposed within the surface for accommodating the connecting element.

20. The building block system of claim 19, wherein the plate surface mirrors the structure of the surface of the building block, so as to allow a join using corresponding connection elements.

21. The building block system of any one of claims 1 1 to 20, further including a connecting plate, wherein the plate features at least one connecting element protruding from its surface for direct engagement with a corresponding receiving portion.