US20040198141A1 - Children's panel and connector building set - Google Patents
Children's panel and connector building set Download PDFInfo
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- US20040198141A1 US20040198141A1 US10/697,578 US69757803A US2004198141A1 US 20040198141 A1 US20040198141 A1 US 20040198141A1 US 69757803 A US69757803 A US 69757803A US 2004198141 A1 US2004198141 A1 US 2004198141A1
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- panel
- connectors
- panels
- connector
- kit
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63H—TOYS, e.g. TOPS, DOLLS, HOOPS OR BUILDING BLOCKS
- A63H33/00—Other toys
- A63H33/008—Playhouses, play-tents, big enough for playing inside
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63H—TOYS, e.g. TOPS, DOLLS, HOOPS OR BUILDING BLOCKS
- A63H33/00—Other toys
- A63H33/04—Building blocks, strips, or similar building parts
- A63H33/10—Building blocks, strips, or similar building parts to be assembled by means of additional non-adhesive elements
- A63H33/105—Building blocks, strips, or similar building parts to be assembled by means of additional non-adhesive elements with grooves, e.g. dovetails
Definitions
- This invention relates to children's building kits, and more specifically to a panel and connector set for children to temporarily construct structures.
- the present invention provides a construction set for children. Many children use construction sets to create temporary structures. Such kits are helpful to challenge a child's imagination, and additionally assist children in learning spatial, physical and interactional relationships.
- kits with larger pieces hard and/or heavy materials with potentially sharp edges can be unsafe for falling on or otherwise causing a danger to the child.
- manipulating larger heavy and/or awkward pieces can sometimes be difficult for smaller children.
- a modular toy building kit includes a plurality of building panels, each having a circumference with edges. A plurality of tabs are defined on each panel with one tab defined along each edge.
- the kit further includes a plurality of connectors, each connector having a length and having slots defined along the length. Each slot is sized to slidably receive and temporarily retain a tab of a building panel.
- the set includes a base having a rectangular support surface with four corners.
- the set includes at least four connectors, each having a height and four longitudinal sides with a longitudinal slot in each longitudinal side.
- Each of the connectors is positionable adjacent one of the support surface corners.
- the set further includes at least four panels, each panel having tabs, wherein each tab is sized to be received and selectively retained in one of the connector slots.
- the panels are engagable with the connectors to form walls to a storage compartment mounted on and enclosing the support surface on the base.
- the storage compartment is sized to store additional panels and connectors.
- the present invention provides a connector and panel set with a plurality of panels, each panel having edges with lengths, and a plurality of connectors, each connector having sides forming a standard height.
- Each edge of each panel is engagable to a side of any connector and the height of the connectors differs from the length and the width of each panel edge.
- a stack of connectors forms a height with joints between the connectors and a stack of panels forms a height with joints between the panels, wherein the joints of the stack of connectors are not aligned with the joints of the stack of panels.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is an alternate perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with one side panel and the lid removed.
- FIG. 3A is a top view of pieces of one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3B is a perspective view of pieces of one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3C is one embodiment of the present invention in one configuration.
- FIG. 3D is one embodiment of the present invention in an alternate configuration.
- FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a panel used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4B is a top view of the panel of FIG. 4A.
- FIG. 4C is an end view of the panel of FIG. 4A.
- FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a different panel used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5B is a top view of the panel of FIG. 5A.
- FIG. 5C is an end view of the panel of FIG. 5A.
- FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a still further panel used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6B is a top view of the panel of FIG. 6A.
- FIG. 6C is an end view of the panel of FIG. 6A.
- FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a connector used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7B is a side view of the connector of FIG. 7A.
- FIG. 7C is an end view of the connector of FIG. 7A.
- FIG. 8A is a top view of an activity board used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8B is a side view of the activity board of FIG. 8A.
- FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a panel with an activity board used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9B is a top view of the panel and activity board of FIG. 9A.
- FIG. 9C is a cut-away side view of the panel and activity board of FIG. 9A.
- FIG. 9D is a partial, cut-away side view of the panel and activity board of FIG. 9C.
- FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a base used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10B is a top view of the base of FIG. 10A.
- FIG. 10C is a side view of the base of FIG. 10A.
- FIG. 10D is a perspective bottom view of a base used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10E is a bottom view of the base of FIG. 10D.
- FIG. 10F is a side view of the base of FIG. 10A.
- the present invention provides an activity set for children, for example small children such as three year olds.
- the activity set is a kit that includes panels and connectors plus additional pieces. Children may assembly the panels and connectors in various configurations without tools, fasteners or training to create temporary structures designed by their imagination.
- the elements of the kit are lightweight and sized to be easily manipulated by children yet sturdy for long-term play.
- the kit is made from materials suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- the kit elements are preferably modular to be substantially interchangeable and are designed to facilitate ease of assembly and dis-assembly.
- Kit 10 generally includes long panels 30 , short panels 40 and connectors 50 .
- kit 10 can be configured to form a self-containing storage compartment.
- four connectors 50 form corners 26 arranged on a generally rectangular base 14 .
- Two panels 30 form the sides 22 and two panels 40 form the ends 24 and interconnect with corners 26 to form an interior storage compartment.
- a lid 20 similar to base 14 , may be placed across the top of the storage compartment. Wheels 16 are optionally mounted to base 14 to facilitate the ability to move kit 10 .
- FIG. 2 illustrates horizontal stacking of long panels 30 , short panels 40 and connectors 50 on base 14 within the sides 22 , ends 24 and corners 26 .
- the panels may be arranged in a vertical stack.
- kit 10 are preferably interchangeable and connectable to form various configurations, such as walls, doors and/or windows.
- various configurations such as walls, doors and/or windows.
- FIGS. 3 A-D Preferably the edge portions of the long panels 30 , short panels 40 , triangular panels 70 , base 14 and lid 20 are removably and slidably interlockable with connectors 50 to form structures.
- the panels and connectors can be arranged vertically, horizontally and/or stacked as desired.
- Non-limiting examples of potential configurations include a maze, a playhouse, a cave, a climbing structure, a loft, an airplane, a train, a chair and a table.
- Panel 30 is preferably formed in a generally rectangular shape forming a length (l) and a width (w) with curved corners, although other geometric shapes with generally straight edges can be used, examples include triangles, trapezoids, pentagons, hexagons, and octagons. As illustrated, panel 30 includes four edges 32 . Extending from each edge is a web or thinner portion 34 . At the outer portion of each web 34 is a connector or tab, such as a T-shaped tab 36 . Each web and tab extends generally along the length of an edge, terminating adjacent the beginning of the arcuate corner curve.
- each tab 36 includes a changed cross-section which is a beveled or tapered portion 37 in both width and thickness adjacent one or preferably both ends.
- panel 30 defines mounting openings 39 .
- panels may have circular openings or handles 38 assisting for grasping the panels, or portions formed or removed to form windows. Such windows will typically be open, with a frame formed by the surrounding panel.
- FIGS. 5 A-C Views of a preferred embodiment of a short panel 40 are illustrated in FIGS. 5 A-C.
- Panel 40 is preferably formed in the rectangular shape of a square forming a length (l) and a width (w), although other geometric shapes can be used.
- Panel 40 includes four edges 42 . Extending from each edge is a web or thinner portion 44 . At the outer portion of each web 44 is a connector or tab, such as a T-shaped tab 46 .
- each tab 46 includes a changed cross-section which is a beveled or tapered portion 47 adjacent one or both ends.
- panel 40 defines mounting openings 49 .
- FIGS. 6 A-C Views of a preferred embodiment of a triangular panel 70 are illustrated in FIGS. 6 A-C.
- Panel 70 includes three edges 72 , two of which form a base and height of equal length (w). Extending from each edge is a web or thinner portion 74 . At the outer portion of each web 74 is a connector or tab, such as a T-shaped tab 76 .
- each tab 76 includes a changed cross-section which is a beveled or tapered portion 77 adjacent one or both ends.
- panel 70 defines mounting openings or handles 79 .
- Connector 50 has two ends and four longitudinal sides defining a height (h). Each longitudinal side defines a longitudinal slot or groove 56 between corner edges 52 .
- slot 56 is configured to slidingly receive a tab 36 , 46 or 76 of any kit panel 30 , 40 or 70 .
- corner edges 52 include slight bevels or tapers 57 at one or both ends to facilitate the introduction of tabs into slots 56 .
- the corner edges 52 include feet 53 defined at each end of connector 50 . Feet 53 assist in stabilizing and stacking each connector 50 .
- FIGS. 8A & B Illustrated in FIGS. 8A & B is one preferred embodiment of an activity board 60 usable in certain embodiments of kit 10 .
- Activity board 60 is selectively mountable to panels of kit 10 .
- board 60 is formed in a generally rectangular shape sized to fit approximately within the edges 32 of a long panel 30 . This is for illustration only and alternate sizes and geometric shapes can be used as desired.
- Various children's activities such as posters, chalkboards, marker boards, and/or educational activities or games can be mounted on activity board 60 .
- Preferably extending from activity board 60 is an offset member or hanger 62 .
- Hanger 62 is configured to selectively mount activity board 60 to a chosen panel.
- FIGS. 9 A-D Illustrated in FIGS. 9 A-D are views of an activity board 60 mounted to a panel, for example panel 30 .
- hanger 62 with handle 64 is guided through an opening 39 in a selected panel 30 .
- Board 60 is then released slightly downward to rest hanger 62 on the lower portion (as oriented) of opening 39 to prevent downward movement of board 60 relative to panel 30 (FIG. 9D).
- a portion of handle 64 extends slightly beyond the inner edge of opening 39 when hanger 62 is resting on the lower portion of the opening.
- the portion of handle 64 which overlaps panel 30 prevents hanger 62 from unintentionally withdrawing from opening 39 .
- activity board 60 is prevented from unintended separation.
- base 14 is slightly thicker than a standard panel, and the lower side (FIG. 10D) optionally includes recesses 17 for castors or wheels 16 . During shipment or storage, wheels 16 can be stored in recesses 17 to conserve space, and are removed and mounted to base 14 when desired.
- a slight protrusion or lobe 21 extends from each corner of the base and supports at least one foot 53 of each corner connector 26 to prevent the corner connector from sliding below the level of the support surface.
- the storage compartment volume over the support surface is sized to contain and store panels and connectors.
- Lid 20 is preferably similar to base 14 .
- base 14 and lid 20 include partial impressions to provide a similar look to openings 38 in long panels 30 .
- kit 10 are lightweight materials without sharp edges or sharp corners.
- the kit can be made with hollow, blow-molded, polyethylene panels and injection molded ABS connectors.
- the panels can be made from a transparent material, such as polycarbonate, which may be clear or tinted.
- the connector height differs from the length and width measurements of the panels. This ensures that one connector will be shorter (or longer) than any panel while a stack of connectors will span any joints between panel stacks within a typical child's reach without the connector joints and panel joints being aligned or having equal heights. For example, if the panel dimensions are in eighteen inch multiples and the connectors are thirteen and half inches in height, two short panels can be stacked, forming a height of thirty-six inches and a joint at eighteen inches. A stack of three connectors will have a height of forty and a half inches with joints at thirteen and half inches and twenty-seven inches. A long panel would have the same geometry without one joint. Examples of this concept are illustrated in FIGS. 3 A-C.
- kit 10 is placed in a self-containing arrangement with or without the wheels attached.
- the child can choose components of the system to assemble a structure as desired. Access to components can be facilitated by removing one side (FIG. 2).
- the edge portions or tabs of a panel are slidably engaged with a slot on a connector (FIGS. 3 A-B).
- the beveled or tapered end portions on the panel tabs and the connector slot edges facilitate the introduction of the tab into the slot and ease the sliding engagement.
- interlocking engagement includes sufficient “wiggle” room in the connection that the sliding engagement and dis-engagement is easily done without binding and allows the angle of the panel to the connector to be slightly adjusted as desired.
- FIGS. 3 C-D For continued assembly, multiple connectors and combinations of short and long panels may be combined in vertical and horizontal arrangements to create temporary structures, examples are shown in FIGS. 3 C-D.
- the pieces When play activity with the kit is complete, the pieces can be efficiently dis-assembled and returned to a storage configuration.
Abstract
According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a modular toy building kit is provided. The kit includes a plurality of building panels, each having a circumference with edges. A plurality of tabs are defined on each panel with one tab defined on each edge. The kit further includes a plurality of connectors, each connector having a length and having slots defined along the length. Each slot is sized to slidably receive and temporarily retain a tab of a building panel. Another embodiment of the present provides a self-contained toy panel and connector building set. The set includes a base having a rectangular support surface with four corners. The set includes at least four connectors, each having a height and four longitudinal sides with a longitudinal slot in each longitudinal side. Each of the connectors is positionable adjacent one of the support surface corners. The set further includes at least four panels, each panel having tabs, wherein each tab is sized to be received and selectively retained in one of the connector slots. The panels are engagable with the connectors to form walls to a storage compartment mounted on and enclosing the support surface on the base. The storage compartment is sized to store additional panels and connectors.
Description
- This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/453,252 filed on Mar. 7, 2003, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/442,610 filed on Jan. 24, 2003.
- This invention relates to children's building kits, and more specifically to a panel and connector set for children to temporarily construct structures.
- The present invention provides a construction set for children. Many children use construction sets to create temporary structures. Such kits are helpful to challenge a child's imagination, and additionally assist children in learning spatial, physical and interactional relationships.
- One style of prior construction kit, such as Legos® kits or blocks, uses hand or smaller sized pieces. These pieces can be used to create miniaturized assemblies which children can easily view and carry; however, such kits do not provide a child a larger sized assembly to manipulate, nor do they provide interactive play.
- An alternate style of prior kits involves bulky or oversized pieces that are used to create larger assemblies. Although larger structures can be created, in kits with larger pieces hard and/or heavy materials with potentially sharp edges can be unsafe for falling on or otherwise causing a danger to the child. Separately, manipulating larger heavy and/or awkward pieces can sometimes be difficult for smaller children.
- A different style of panel kits are not intended for assembly and dis-assembly by children, but are used to create structures which are intended to be semi-permanent for storage or space separation. Typically these kits require fasteners and tools for assembly, include larger and heavier components and may require instructions or training for assembly. These systems are not suitable for small children to play with.
- There is a need for a safe yet flexible children's construction kit. The present invention addresses this need.
- According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a modular toy building kit is provided. The kit includes a plurality of building panels, each having a circumference with edges. A plurality of tabs are defined on each panel with one tab defined along each edge. The kit further includes a plurality of connectors, each connector having a length and having slots defined along the length. Each slot is sized to slidably receive and temporarily retain a tab of a building panel.
- Another embodiment of the present provides a self-contained toy panel and connector building set. The set includes a base having a rectangular support surface with four corners. The set includes at least four connectors, each having a height and four longitudinal sides with a longitudinal slot in each longitudinal side. Each of the connectors is positionable adjacent one of the support surface corners. The set further includes at least four panels, each panel having tabs, wherein each tab is sized to be received and selectively retained in one of the connector slots. The panels are engagable with the connectors to form walls to a storage compartment mounted on and enclosing the support surface on the base. The storage compartment is sized to store additional panels and connectors.
- In a further embodiment, the present invention provides a connector and panel set with a plurality of panels, each panel having edges with lengths, and a plurality of connectors, each connector having sides forming a standard height. Each edge of each panel is engagable to a side of any connector and the height of the connectors differs from the length and the width of each panel edge. Preferably, a stack of connectors forms a height with joints between the connectors and a stack of panels forms a height with joints between the panels, wherein the joints of the stack of connectors are not aligned with the joints of the stack of panels.
- In a still further preferred embodiment, the present invention provides a toy set, having a panel and connector kit; and one or more activity boards. The activity board is selectively mountable and removable to the panel and connector kit. Preferably the activity board comprises a hanging member configured to selectively mount the activity board to a panel of the panel and connector kit. The activity board provides a mounting area for a range of games, learning materials, and/or writing or drawing.
- It is an object of the invention to provide an improved panel and connector system for children.
- It is a further object of certain preferred embodiments of the present invention to provide a toy panel and connector system which is easy and safe for small children to assemble and disassemble.
- Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention shall become apparent from the detailed drawings and descriptions provided herein.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is an alternate perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 with one side panel and the lid removed.
- FIG. 3A is a top view of pieces of one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3B is a perspective view of pieces of one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3C is one embodiment of the present invention in one configuration.
- FIG. 3D is one embodiment of the present invention in an alternate configuration.
- FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a panel used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4B is a top view of the panel of FIG. 4A.
- FIG. 4C is an end view of the panel of FIG. 4A.
- FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a different panel used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5B is a top view of the panel of FIG. 5A.
- FIG. 5C is an end view of the panel of FIG. 5A.
- FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a still further panel used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6B is a top view of the panel of FIG. 6A.
- FIG. 6C is an end view of the panel of FIG. 6A.
- FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a connector used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7B is a side view of the connector of FIG. 7A.
- FIG. 7C is an end view of the connector of FIG. 7A.
- FIG. 8A is a top view of an activity board used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8B is a side view of the activity board of FIG. 8A.
- FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a panel with an activity board used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9B is a top view of the panel and activity board of FIG. 9A.
- FIG. 9C is a cut-away side view of the panel and activity board of FIG. 9A.
- FIG. 9D is a partial, cut-away side view of the panel and activity board of FIG. 9C.
- FIG. 10A is a perspective view of a base used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10B is a top view of the base of FIG. 10A.
- FIG. 10C is a side view of the base of FIG. 10A.
- FIG. 10D is a perspective bottom view of a base used in one embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10E is a bottom view of the base of FIG. 10D.
- FIG. 10F is a side view of the base of FIG. 10A.
- For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations, modifications, and further applications of the principles of the invention being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
- According to some preferred embodiments, the present invention provides an activity set for children, for example small children such as three year olds. In certain embodiments, the activity set is a kit that includes panels and connectors plus additional pieces. Children may assembly the panels and connectors in various configurations without tools, fasteners or training to create temporary structures designed by their imagination. In preferred embodiments the elements of the kit are lightweight and sized to be easily manipulated by children yet sturdy for long-term play. Preferably the kit is made from materials suitable for indoor and outdoor use. The kit elements are preferably modular to be substantially interchangeable and are designed to facilitate ease of assembly and dis-assembly.
- Illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 is one preferred embodiment of the present invention included system or
kit 10.Kit 10 generally includeslong panels 30,short panels 40 andconnectors 50. As a preferred feature,kit 10 can be configured to form a self-containing storage compartment. In the embodiment illustrated, fourconnectors 50form corners 26 arranged on a generallyrectangular base 14. Twopanels 30 form thesides 22 and twopanels 40 form theends 24 and interconnect withcorners 26 to form an interior storage compartment. Alid 20, similar tobase 14, may be placed across the top of the storage compartment.Wheels 16 are optionally mounted tobase 14 to facilitate the ability to movekit 10. - The interior of the storage compartment is arranged to receive the pieces of
kit 10. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates horizontal stacking oflong panels 30,short panels 40 andconnectors 50 onbase 14 within thesides 22, ends 24 andcorners 26. Alternately, the panels may be arranged in a vertical stack. - The elements of
kit 10 are preferably interchangeable and connectable to form various configurations, such as walls, doors and/or windows. Non-limiting examples of arrangements are illustrated in FIGS. 3A-D. Preferably the edge portions of thelong panels 30,short panels 40,triangular panels 70,base 14 andlid 20 are removably and slidably interlockable withconnectors 50 to form structures. The panels and connectors can be arranged vertically, horizontally and/or stacked as desired. Non-limiting examples of potential configurations include a maze, a playhouse, a cave, a climbing structure, a loft, an airplane, a train, a chair and a table. - Views of a preferred embodiment of a
long panel 30 are illustrated in FIGS. 4A-C. Panel 30 is preferably formed in a generally rectangular shape forming a length (l) and a width (w) with curved corners, although other geometric shapes with generally straight edges can be used, examples include triangles, trapezoids, pentagons, hexagons, and octagons. As illustrated,panel 30 includes four edges 32. Extending from each edge is a web orthinner portion 34. At the outer portion of eachweb 34 is a connector or tab, such as a T-shapedtab 36. Each web and tab extends generally along the length of an edge, terminating adjacent the beginning of the arcuate corner curve. As a preferred feature, eachtab 36 includes a changed cross-section which is a beveled or taperedportion 37 in both width and thickness adjacent one or preferably both ends. As a separate preferred feature,panel 30 defines mountingopenings 39. As an optional feature, panels may have circular openings or handles 38 assisting for grasping the panels, or portions formed or removed to form windows. Such windows will typically be open, with a frame formed by the surrounding panel. - Views of a preferred embodiment of a
short panel 40 are illustrated in FIGS. 5A-C. Panel 40 is preferably formed in the rectangular shape of a square forming a length (l) and a width (w), although other geometric shapes can be used.Panel 40 includes four edges 42. Extending from each edge is a web orthinner portion 44. At the outer portion of eachweb 44 is a connector or tab, such as a T-shapedtab 46. As a preferred feature, eachtab 46 includes a changed cross-section which is a beveled or taperedportion 47 adjacent one or both ends. As a separate preferred feature,panel 40 defines mountingopenings 49. - Views of a preferred embodiment of a
triangular panel 70 are illustrated in FIGS. 6A-C. Panel 70 includes threeedges 72, two of which form a base and height of equal length (w). Extending from each edge is a web orthinner portion 74. At the outer portion of eachweb 74 is a connector or tab, such as a T-shapedtab 76. As a preferred feature, eachtab 76 includes a changed cross-section which is a beveled or taperedportion 77 adjacent one or both ends. As a separate preferred feature,panel 70 defines mounting openings or handles 79. - Views of a preferred embodiment of a
connector 50 are illustrated in FIGS. 7A-C. Connector 50 has two ends and four longitudinal sides defining a height (h). Each longitudinal side defines a longitudinal slot or groove 56 between corner edges 52. Preferably slot 56 is configured to slidingly receive atab kit panel slots 56. In a further preferred feature, the corner edges 52 includefeet 53 defined at each end ofconnector 50.Feet 53 assist in stabilizing and stacking eachconnector 50. - Illustrated in FIGS. 8A & B is one preferred embodiment of an
activity board 60 usable in certain embodiments ofkit 10.Activity board 60 is selectively mountable to panels ofkit 10. As illustrated,board 60 is formed in a generally rectangular shape sized to fit approximately within theedges 32 of along panel 30. This is for illustration only and alternate sizes and geometric shapes can be used as desired. Various children's activities such as posters, chalkboards, marker boards, and/or educational activities or games can be mounted onactivity board 60. Preferably extending fromactivity board 60 is an offset member orhanger 62.Hanger 62 is configured to selectively mountactivity board 60 to a chosen panel. - In a preferred embodiment,
hanger 62 includes ahandle portion 64.Handle portion 64 is illustrated as a spherical portion or ball, but alternate shapes such as hooks, cross-members, springs or clamps can be used. In one embodiment,hanger 62 is a short-cylindrical member connected at a proximal end to board 60 and connected at a distal end to handleportion 64.Handle portion 64 can be connected tohanger 62 by a screw-on connection, welding, rivets, integrally molded or similar well-known connection methods. Preferably,hanger 62, includinghandle portion 64, is sized to fit through openings inpanels activity board 60 includes twohangers 62 with handle portions spaced at a sufficient distance to engage two opening in the same or separate panels. - Illustrated in FIGS.9A-D are views of an
activity board 60 mounted to a panel, forexample panel 30. When placingboard 60 in position,hanger 62 withhandle 64 is guided through anopening 39 in a selectedpanel 30.Board 60 is then released slightly downward to resthanger 62 on the lower portion (as oriented) of opening 39 to prevent downward movement ofboard 60 relative to panel 30 (FIG. 9D). Further, preferably a portion ofhandle 64 extends slightly beyond the inner edge of opening 39 whenhanger 62 is resting on the lower portion of the opening. The portion ofhandle 64 which overlapspanel 30 preventshanger 62 from unintentionally withdrawing from opening 39. Preferably with two such hanger and handle connections topanel 30,activity board 60 is prevented from unintended separation. - As a preferred safety feature, jostling or accidental movement of
activity board 60 relative topanel 30 typically moveshanger 62 around the periphery of the inner edge ofopening 39. Such movement around the periphery maintains the overlap of a portion ofhandle 64 over the panel, minimizing the risk of accidental separation.Activity board 60 is removed by lifting the board and guidinghandles 64 through the center ofopenings 39. It will be understood that the hangers and activity board can be mounted in both horizontal and vertical orientations to long or short panels ofkit 10 with appropriate sizing and arrangements. - Views of a preferred embodiment of
base 14 are shown in FIGS. 10A-F. In one embodiment,base 14 is slightly thicker than a standard panel, and the lower side (FIG. 10D) optionally includesrecesses 17 for castors orwheels 16. During shipment or storage,wheels 16 can be stored inrecesses 17 to conserve space, and are removed and mounted tobase 14 when desired. -
Base 14 is preferably slightly larger than a standard panel ofkit 10 to provide a sturdy base whenkit 10 is in a self-containing storage arrangement. Extending from the edges ofbase 14 around a support surface areside supports 18 and end supports 19. Side supports 18 and end supports 19 include tabs similar to the tabs onpanels connectors 50. Side supports 18 and end supports 19 further include wider webs orsupport portions 34′ and 44′ extending between the edges ofbase 14 and the tabs. Preferably thewider webs 34′ and 44′ are dimensioned so that the profile oftabs panels kit 10 is in a stored configuration, sides 22 and ends 24 rest upon side supports 18 and 19, preferably onwebs 34′ and 44′, to enclose the support surface. - In one embodiment, a slight protrusion or
lobe 21 extends from each corner of the base and supports at least onefoot 53 of eachcorner connector 26 to prevent the corner connector from sliding below the level of the support surface. Preferably the storage compartment volume over the support surface is sized to contain and store panels and connectors.Lid 20 is preferably similar tobase 14. In a preferred feature (not shown),base 14 andlid 20 include partial impressions to provide a similar look toopenings 38 inlong panels 30. - In preferred features, the components of
kit 10 are lightweight materials without sharp edges or sharp corners. For example, the kit can be made with hollow, blow-molded, polyethylene panels and injection molded ABS connectors. Alternately, the panels can be made from a transparent material, such as polycarbonate, which may be clear or tinted. - In a preferred embodiment, the panels and connectors are based on the largest practical size which a small child, such as a three year old, can manipulate and assemble with two hands. As a non-limiting example, in one embodiment
short panels 40 have a length and width of eighteen (18) inches, large panels have a length of thirty-six (36) inches and a width of eighteen (18) inches andconnectors 50 have height of thirteen and a half (13 ½) inches, andtriangular panels 70 have a base and height of eighteen (18) inches. In this embodiment, the panels are approximately one and half (1 ½) inches thick.Base 14 has a length of forty-one (41) inches and a width of twenty-three (23) inches. Typically in this sizing, the child will only have a limited vertical reach, limiting the overall height of the assembled structure. According to this example, the typical maximum assembly height by a three-year old would be fifty-four inches. - In one aspect of
kit 10, preferably the connector height differs from the length and width measurements of the panels. This ensures that one connector will be shorter (or longer) than any panel while a stack of connectors will span any joints between panel stacks within a typical child's reach without the connector joints and panel joints being aligned or having equal heights. For example, if the panel dimensions are in eighteen inch multiples and the connectors are thirteen and half inches in height, two short panels can be stacked, forming a height of thirty-six inches and a joint at eighteen inches. A stack of three connectors will have a height of forty and a half inches with joints at thirteen and half inches and twenty-seven inches. A long panel would have the same geometry without one joint. Examples of this concept are illustrated in FIGS. 3A-C. - The system of the present invention is usable by a small child without using tools or fasteners or the need for training. Typically for shipment or storage,
kit 10 is placed in a self-containing arrangement with or without the wheels attached. When used by a child, the child can choose components of the system to assemble a structure as desired. Access to components can be facilitated by removing one side (FIG. 2). When assembling components, the edge portions or tabs of a panel are slidably engaged with a slot on a connector (FIGS. 3A-B). The beveled or tapered end portions on the panel tabs and the connector slot edges facilitate the introduction of the tab into the slot and ease the sliding engagement. This creates a temporary interlocking engagement where the panel and connector cannot be disengaged except by sliding. Preferably the interlocking engagement includes sufficient “wiggle” room in the connection that the sliding engagement and dis-engagement is easily done without binding and allows the angle of the panel to the connector to be slightly adjusted as desired. - For continued assembly, multiple connectors and combinations of short and long panels may be combined in vertical and horizontal arrangements to create temporary structures, examples are shown in FIGS.3C-D. When play activity with the kit is complete, the pieces can be efficiently dis-assembled and returned to a storage configuration.
- While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.
Claims (28)
1. A modular toy building kit, comprising:
a. a plurality of building panels, each having a circumference with edges;
b. a plurality of tabs, one tab defined on each edge of each building panel;
c. a plurality of connectors, each connector having a length and having slots defined along said length; and,
d. wherein each said slot is sized to slidably receive and temporarily retain a tab of a building panel.
2. The kit of claim 1 wherein each said panel is rectangular.
3. The kit of claim 2 wherein each said panel is hollow and formed from plastic.
4. The kit of claim 2 wherein each said connector has a height and defines four lengthwise sides and wherein one slot is defined along the length of each side.
5. The kit of claim 2 wherein each said tab is a T-style tab.
6. The kit of claim 2 wherein each said tab includes a reduced cross-section adjacent at least one end of said tab.
7. The kit of claim 5 wherein each slot has at least one open end and wherein said open end has a beveled opening.
8. The kit of claim 5 wherein each said connector has a height of approximately thirteen and half inches and wherein each said rectangular panel has a length and a width and wherein said length and said width are multiples of approximately eighteen inches.
9. A self-contained toy panel and connector building set, comprising:
a. a base having a rectangular support surface with four corners;
b. at least four connectors, each having a height and four longitudinal sides and defining a longitudinal slot in each longitudinal side;
c. each of said connectors positionable adjacent one of said support surface corners;
d. at least four panels with edges, each panel having a tab adjacent each edge, wherein each tab is sized to be received and selectively retained in one of said connector slots;
e. wherein said panels are engagable with said connectors to form walls to a storage compartment mounted on and enclosing said support surface on said base;
f. wherein said storage compartment is sized to store additional panels and connectors.
10. The set of claim 9 further comprising a lid to close the top of said storage compartment.
11. The set of claim 10 further comprising wheels attachable to said base.
12. The set of claim 11 wherein said base is engagable with said connectors.
13. A connector and panel set, comprising:
a. a plurality of panels; each panel having edges;
b. a plurality of connectors, each connector having sides forming a standard height;
c. wherein each edge of each panel is engagable to a side of any connector;
d. wherein the height of said connectors differs from the length and the width of each said panel.
14. The set of claim 13 wherein a stack of said connectors forms a height with joints between the connectors and wherein a stack of panels forms a height with joints between the panels and wherein the joints of said stack of connectors are not equal to the heights of the joints of the stack of said panels.
15. The set of claim 14 wherein said stack of connectors comprises up to three connectors.
16. The set of claim 14 wherein said connectors have a standard height of approximately thirteen and half inches and wherein said panels include rectangular panels having lengths and widths in multiples of eighteen inches.
17. The set of claim 13 wherein each edge of each panel has a tab formed therewith; and wherein said connector sides define slots for receiving and selectively retaining said tabs.
18. The set of claim 17 wherein each said tab is a T-style tab.
19. The set of claim 14 further comprising at least one activity board removably attachable to at least one of said panels.
20. The set of claim 19 wherein said activity board includes a hanger for removably attaching said activity board to said at least one panel.
21. The set of claim 20 wherein said at least one panel includes an opening sized for receiving said hanger and wherein said activity board is removably attachable to said panel by placing a portion of said hanger through said opening.
22. The set of claim 21 wherein said hanger further comprises a handle portion and wherein said handle portion partially overlaps said at least one panel beyond the inner edge of said opening when said activity board is attached to said panel, and wherein said overlapping handle portion inhibits separation of said activity board from said panel.
23. A toy set, comprising:
a. a panel and connector kit; and
b. an activity board;
c. wherein said activity board is selectively mountable and removable to said panel and connector kit.
24. The set of claim 23 wherein said activity board further comprises a hanging member configured to selectively mount said activity board to a panel of said panel and connector kit.
25. The set of claim 24 wherein said hanging member comprises an offset member and a handle.
26. The set of claim 25 wherein said panel defines an opening for receiving said handle and wherein said opening and said handle cooperate to mount and retain said activity board to said panel.
27. The set of claim 26 wherein said opening is circular.
28. The set of claim 27 wherein said handle is substantially spherical.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/697,578 US20040198141A1 (en) | 2003-01-24 | 2003-10-30 | Children's panel and connector building set |
AU2003301211A AU2003301211A1 (en) | 2003-01-24 | 2003-12-22 | Children's panel and connector building set |
PCT/US2003/040886 WO2004067865A2 (en) | 2003-01-24 | 2003-12-22 | Children’s panel and connector building set |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US44261003P | 2003-01-24 | 2003-01-24 | |
US45325203P | 2003-03-07 | 2003-03-07 | |
US10/697,578 US20040198141A1 (en) | 2003-01-24 | 2003-10-30 | Children's panel and connector building set |
Publications (1)
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US20040198141A1 true US20040198141A1 (en) | 2004-10-07 |
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Family Applications (1)
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US10/697,578 Abandoned US20040198141A1 (en) | 2003-01-24 | 2003-10-30 | Children's panel and connector building set |
Country Status (3)
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US (1) | US20040198141A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003301211A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2004067865A2 (en) |
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US20050186021A1 (en) * | 2004-02-12 | 2005-08-25 | Keith Savas Product Development, Llc | Hub and spoke panel connector |
US20090004946A1 (en) * | 2007-06-11 | 2009-01-01 | Zinkotek | Interlocking toy |
US20100130094A1 (en) * | 2006-11-20 | 2010-05-27 | Vincent Michalk | Interlocking panel and kit of such panels |
US20110067325A1 (en) * | 2009-09-08 | 2011-03-24 | Chuck Modica | Modular roof, deck and patio apparatus, including modular panels with snap connection features |
US20120015582A1 (en) * | 2010-07-16 | 2012-01-19 | Martijn Van Tilburg | Modular and stackable dollhouse |
US20120042568A1 (en) * | 2010-08-20 | 2012-02-23 | Gary Keith | Modular expandable growing season augmentation system |
US8317564B1 (en) * | 2009-12-28 | 2012-11-27 | Gary Buhrman | Children's building system |
US8316781B1 (en) | 2010-02-19 | 2012-11-27 | Stanley Barton Majors | Method and apparatus for modular furniture |
US8904706B1 (en) * | 2011-10-31 | 2014-12-09 | Barry C. Smith | Modular interlocking planter |
US9114325B1 (en) | 2014-02-19 | 2015-08-25 | Yitzchok Sternhill | Modular toy building kit system |
US20160095284A1 (en) * | 2014-10-06 | 2016-04-07 | Mark D. Britt | Expandable Plant Cover |
US20170197153A1 (en) * | 2016-01-12 | 2017-07-13 | Nicholas Styles | Modular play structure system |
US10086304B1 (en) * | 2015-08-24 | 2018-10-02 | Louis Adelard LaChance, III | Modular panel system for interactive play or display |
US10895074B2 (en) | 2019-02-15 | 2021-01-19 | John Mark Isaac Madison | Interlocking blocks for modular structures |
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EP1977804A3 (en) * | 2006-12-04 | 2008-10-29 | Trocellen GmbH | Accessible construction set, in particular children's toy |
BE1018282A3 (en) * | 2008-09-12 | 2010-08-03 | Ceulebroeck Filip Van | WALL PANEL AND RELATED MODULAR DEVICE. |
GB201703124D0 (en) * | 2017-02-27 | 2017-04-12 | Farquharson Denise | A visually representative apparatus for theoretical learning |
CN112554344B (en) * | 2020-11-25 | 2022-05-10 | 山东隆元建工集团有限公司 | Adjustable connecting piece for splicing sample house |
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Cited By (17)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20050186021A1 (en) * | 2004-02-12 | 2005-08-25 | Keith Savas Product Development, Llc | Hub and spoke panel connector |
US20100130094A1 (en) * | 2006-11-20 | 2010-05-27 | Vincent Michalk | Interlocking panel and kit of such panels |
US20090004946A1 (en) * | 2007-06-11 | 2009-01-01 | Zinkotek | Interlocking toy |
US20110067325A1 (en) * | 2009-09-08 | 2011-03-24 | Chuck Modica | Modular roof, deck and patio apparatus, including modular panels with snap connection features |
US8424258B2 (en) * | 2009-09-08 | 2013-04-23 | Charles F. Modica | Modular roof, deck and patio apparatus, including modular panels with snap connection features |
US8317564B1 (en) * | 2009-12-28 | 2012-11-27 | Gary Buhrman | Children's building system |
US8316781B1 (en) | 2010-02-19 | 2012-11-27 | Stanley Barton Majors | Method and apparatus for modular furniture |
US20120015582A1 (en) * | 2010-07-16 | 2012-01-19 | Martijn Van Tilburg | Modular and stackable dollhouse |
US9072980B2 (en) * | 2010-07-16 | 2015-07-07 | Martijn Van Tilburg | Modular and stackable dollhouse |
US20120042568A1 (en) * | 2010-08-20 | 2012-02-23 | Gary Keith | Modular expandable growing season augmentation system |
US8904706B1 (en) * | 2011-10-31 | 2014-12-09 | Barry C. Smith | Modular interlocking planter |
US9114325B1 (en) | 2014-02-19 | 2015-08-25 | Yitzchok Sternhill | Modular toy building kit system |
US20160095284A1 (en) * | 2014-10-06 | 2016-04-07 | Mark D. Britt | Expandable Plant Cover |
US10086304B1 (en) * | 2015-08-24 | 2018-10-02 | Louis Adelard LaChance, III | Modular panel system for interactive play or display |
US20170197153A1 (en) * | 2016-01-12 | 2017-07-13 | Nicholas Styles | Modular play structure system |
US10058789B2 (en) * | 2016-01-12 | 2018-08-28 | Creative Styles LLC | Modular play structure system |
US10895074B2 (en) | 2019-02-15 | 2021-01-19 | John Mark Isaac Madison | Interlocking blocks for modular structures |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU2003301211A8 (en) | 2004-08-23 |
WO2004067865A2 (en) | 2004-08-12 |
WO2004067865A3 (en) | 2007-06-14 |
AU2003301211A1 (en) | 2004-08-23 |
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Legal Events
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Owner name: ANGELES GROUP, LLC, MISSOURI Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:BUHRMAN, GARY R.;KELLY, RAY G.;REEL/FRAME:014658/0106 Effective date: 20031020 |
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Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |