EP3285897B1 - Planarly connectable toy bricks comprising an unilaterally open, box-like hollow body and plug-in studs at the bottom outer side as well as a bottom dome on the bottom inner side - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to area connectable game building blocks according to claim 1.

Game building blocks of conventional design are made in petrochemical way produced thermoplastic with round closed primary pins (plug-in nubs) above and in the hollow body arranged offset, cylindrical secondary pins and clamping members (floor dome) as opposite poles. Standard elements are produced which can be assembled in a simple manner for the production of any desired designs of the most varied shapes and appearances and can easily be taken apart again for further use. The toy bricks are thus provided on the cover with coupling members in the form of adjacent in a defined grid, cylindrical primary pin (plug-in nubs). The pins are connected to arranged on the bottom plate secondary pin (bottom dome), the secondary pin between the primary pin of an adjacent toy building block fit.

If two components are assembled in this way, the primary pins (plug-in nubs) get into the recesses left free by the secondary pins (bottom dome). As a result, only a punctual (principle: circle-tangent) union is achieved, which fixes both pieces. The fixation is the less strong, the fewer primary pins get into the recesses of the secondary pin of the other game piece.

Such a punctual combination in a box-shaped hollow body with outer primary pin formed toy component of Last marked type is the first alternative from the DE 1 076 007 B known. The toy building element known therefrom is provided on one side of the wall with coupling members in the form of pairs, preferably cylindrical primary pins, wherein the secondary pin projecting from the bottom of the hollow body clamped between the primary pins of an adjacent component, and wherein in a first alternative, the secondary pin in shape are formed by cylindrical tubes. The cylindrical secondary pins are arranged in relation to the primary pin such that the circumference of a secondary pin touches the circumference circumferences of four primary pins, ie the base circle of each secondary pin always touches the base circles of four primary pins. In order to improve the clamping connection with an adjacent component or more, alternatively have the secondary pins cross shape and have on their outer surfaces a corresponding to the circumference of the primary pin counter-profiling. Finally, it is alternatively provided that the secondary pins have prismatic cross section with concave surfaces which come into contact with the outer surfaces of the primary pins of an adjacent component. The secondary pins are formed as a hollow body and - in order to increase the clamping action of the secondary pin - additionally provided with slots. Regardless of whether the toy building element is rectangular or square, the base circle of each secondary pin always touches the base circles of the four primary pins. Furthermore, the inner walls of the hollow body are additionally provided with clamping cams, in particular ribs or convex projections for engagement with the primary pins of an adjacent component. The secondary pin (s) terminate flush with the lower wall of the hollow component and its inner diameter is substantially equal to the outer diameter of the primary pin. A modified embodiment relates to a toy building element having a square bottom surface and a through opening in the center of the bottom surface such that the tubular secondary pin has a hole in the bottom of the hollow body of the same diameter as the inner diameter of the tube enclose. As a result, a simple coupling of the toy component with tubular or rod-shaped elements is made possible, which leak into a coupling pin whose outer diameter corresponds to the diameter of the hole. The tubular secondary pins can also be continued on the other side of the bottom of the hollow body and protrude on this side in a height corresponding to the height of the primary pin distance. Also, the secondary pins may be solid or conical in shape. Are not disclosed in the DE 1 076 007 B only mentioned variants, according to which pins of any other shape are used in place of the cylindrical primary pin, which fit into the spaces between the inner clamping members and in the spaces between them and the inner walls of the hollow body.

In further education this is from the DE 1 837 030 U a toy building element, preferably in the form of a one-sided open, box-like hollow body known, one surface of which has on the outside in cross-section circular or polygonal coupling pin (primary pin). Further, the toy building element has inner ribs instead of the inner tubular spigots (secondary spigots) and is characterized in that the ribs form an angle of 45 ° with the sidewalls and end walls of the toy building element, the distance between two parallel ribs being the diameter of the coupling spigots or the same in the polygonal cross section inscribed circle corresponds. In a preferred embodiment, the ribs are arranged so as to cross each other at a right angle. Thereby, the toy building element is divided into a plurality of cells with a cross-section matching the pins of a neighboring component such that the coupling pins (circular or polygonal primary pins) inserted into the cavity are clamped between the cell walls or between these the side or end walls of the component. Some of these cells, namely the cells lying to the middle of the cavity of the element have square ones Cross-section, while others receive pentagonal or triangular cross-sectional shape. The pentagonal cells in cross-section also serve to receive coupling pins of a neighboring component, while the triangular cells alone can serve for the bracing of the component. Incidentally, the number of cells depends on the shape and dimensions of the toy building element. The main type is a rectangular member in the form of a unilaterally open, box-like hollow body with eight outer coupling pins (circular or polygonal primary pins) and has, for example, three cells of square cross section, eight cells of pentagonal cross section and eight cells of triangular cross section, while another main type with square bottom surface contains a central cell with square cross section, four cells with pentagonal cross section and four cells with triangular cross section.

In practice, has for toys according to the DE 1 076 007 B shown that with newly manufactured components, a comparatively large coupling force with adjacent components is present, which reduces after prolonged use of the components to a coupling force or residual clutch force, which is only about 25% of the original coupling force. The presence of a comparatively large coupling force on newly fabricated components initially makes joining and, in particular, disengagement of two components in engagement comparatively difficult, and often enough the power of a child playing does not suffice to conveniently disengage the components when using newly fabricated components Making another building toy od. Like. To make. In practice, it has also been shown that partly because of the inevitable abrasion on the coupling points in the use of the blocks -wherein the coupling force gradually decreases to about 50% of the initial peel force - and partly because of the cold flow of the coupled together stones, the during a longer time remain unaffected (as is the case with built-in models), a decrease in the coupling force occurs, leaving a residual clutch force of only about 25% of the initial peel force and the built models fall apart in building and playing undesirable. In order to achieve that in newly manufactured components, the coupling force against these components is reduced from the beginning, and to achieve that over time after frequent use of the building blocks for such construction toys, the coupling force does not fall below a certain and desired level (residual clutch force ), so that even after multiple use of the components for construction toys a sufficient and within certain tolerance limits moving coupling force is maintained in toy building block according to the DE 2 242 046 A with reduction of the wall thickness of a building block (eg according to the German patent 1 076 007 B ) in addition to the inner walls of the hollow block in the region in which the primary coupling elements of an adjacent component with the inner wall engaging, projections (in particular in the form of ribs, lugs, etc.) are provided. Furthermore, the secondary coupling pins have slots which extend either in the longitudinal axis of the block or in its transverse axis and the outer diameter of a central secondary coupling element in the form of a secondary hollow pin of a component is increased by a small amount compared to the wall thickness of known secondary hollow pins. Furthermore, the distance between the center axes of two adjacent secondary coupling pin is increased by a small amount and, finally, the outer diameter of the or; mean hollow pin adjacent hollow pin reduced by a small amount. The coupling force of new components according to the invention is reduced compared to the coupling force of newly manufactured known components of the type described in the introduction, and at the same time the residual clutch force is increased after prolonged use of the components compared to the residual clutch force of vorerläuterten known components by about 100% (residual clutch force so far 25%). Residual clutch force now 50%). As a result of the reduction of the wall thickness of the hollow component in conjunction with the ribs, lugs od. Like. It is now possible to produce such toy bricks from a cheaper plastic material. Furthermore, the comparatively very narrow tolerance limits in a block, for example, according to the German Patent 1 076 007 B be significantly expanded, resulting in an advantage easier production of such components for construction toys. Finally, the installability is maintained with already manufactured and in use components and the pent-up demand can be satisfied.

In order to preserve the buildability of large building blocks and their usability with the basic building blocks, it is from the DE 16 78 326 C3 It is known that the large building blocks are designed as a box open on one side and the primary coupling pins arranged on the floor outside and the secondary coupling pins arranged on the floor inside have an axial spacing which corresponds to twice the basic module. Furthermore, the primary coupling pin are tubular and the inner diameter of the primary coupling pin corresponds to the outer diameter of the secondary coupling pin of the basic building blocks. On the inside of the large block side walls recesses for receiving the primary coupling pin of the basic blocks are provided. Finally, the secondary coupling pin large building blocks either recesses for receiving primary coupling pin of basic blocks or a smaller length than the large block side walls.

To improve the integrity of building toy building elements having an external shape such as rectangular boxes and having on its upper surface - for example four - cylindrical coupling socket (primary pin) to improve the clamping connection and to enable the connection by means of pins with snap in the vertical direction is it from the DE 60012300 T2 known that the vertically extending tubular openings / through holes of the device have an internal flange at a distance from the ends of the openings. Furthermore, tubular connecting bushes are provided, which have at their central part a projecting annular flange or collar and on the two sides of the flange two oppositely oriented tubular pin. Each of the two pins of the connection bushes comprises at its free end two axially extending slots which extend from the ends of the pin and a distance inwardly from these ends. In addition, at the end of each pin two ribs or beads are provided which extend annularly and substantially between the slots. The slots allow the ends of the pins to flex in the radial direction, and the beads impart a thickness to the end of the pin that is somewhat greater than the diameter of the through holes. Upon insertion of the end of a pin into a through hole, the beads - which have a rounded profile - first contact a recess when they reach the transition to the tubular part of the opening. As a result, the two parts of the pin are pressed together and the beads will slide over the inside of the tubular flange portion of the opening. The spigot flange will thereby be caused to engage the recess and prevent the full movement of the spigot through the aperture, and the beads will be caused to engage the recess at the opposite end of the aperture. As a result, the bending ends of the pins expand again with a snap effect and the beads counteract the withdrawal of the pin. Thus, it is also possible to connect the components in a vertical direction by using the same pins, as in the case of a side-by-side connection. Therefore, the components can be connected both horizontally and vertically by means of the same type of connecting bushes with pins, and the connection in the vertical direction can with the known connection by means of nozzles in pure Friction can be combined with the walls of a cavity. As a result, a particularly stable connection is achieved with increased resistance to separation, since the force for holding the elements together by frictional engagement, is complemented by the force that is used by the connection socket to hold the components together.

To increase the learning while playing, without questioning the functionality of plug-in modules, and at the same time to reduce the production costs to a minimum, is from the DE 20 2005 002 378 U1 a plug-in module consisting of a base element and a connecting element known. The base member has side walls of uniform height and an upper lid portion which is integrally connected to the side walls. Further, the base member has in its lower portion an opening with a symmetrical geometric shape and is substantially hollow inside. The connecting element connected to the lid portion projects upwardly therefrom, each connecting element being in the form of a three-dimensional number, three-dimensional letter or other three-dimensional motif with an asymmetrical outline, and the outline of the shape of the opening in the base element being adapted to be complete when projected vertically is disposed within the outline of the opening and contacts it at a plurality of points. This configuration ensures that a sufficiently stable plug-in connection can be made with the base element of another plug-in module even with very different motives of the connecting element, whereby the production is simplified by the fact that the opening of equally sized base elements can always remain identical independently of the motif of the connecting element to be inserted. In this case, the exact geometric match of the outline of the connecting element and the inner boundary of the side walls of the base element for a secure plug connection between two plug-in modules is essential. In order to further enhance the clamping security, can be directed inward on the inside of the side walls of the base member Ribs may be arranged, which are perpendicular and represent the points of contact with the inserted connection element. The connection of the base element and the connecting element of the two-part plug-in module takes place, for example, by gluing or inserting / snapping in of the connecting element on the cover section. For this purpose, a suitable recess in the lid portion is provided, in which the connecting element can be partially inserted. The determination of the connecting element in the recess is made by the exact structural agreement of the dimensions, so that a clamping force is generated which exceeds the clamping force between the connecting element and the side walls of another plug-in block in the case of the mating of the two plug-in modules. It is also possible to provide a snap-in device in the recess. Furthermore, it is possible to produce the plug-in components in one-piece plastic, in particular polypropylene or rubber, in the two-component injection molding process.

To a component consisting of an elongated body in the form of a one-sided open box, on its side opposite the open side in the longitudinal direction upwards slightly conically tapered cones with approximately cylindrical contour and over the lateral surface uniformly distributed coaxially extending recesses are arranged and in the interior of the inner surfaces of the side walls with these integrally connected, extending parallel to the recesses clamping elements are provided so that two interconnected via a pin identically formed components can be rotated against each other without the components must be previously separated from each other it from the DE 33 33 097 C1 known that the clamping elements are webs which are integrally connected both with the cover plate and with the associated side wall and are slightly resiliently deformable transversely to its plane and that the recesses are grooves. In the connection state with another, same-trained device grip the inner web edges of opposite pair of webs in its lower region clamped in the grooves of a pin of the other component. The cross-section of the grooves on the one hand and the formation of the webs are on the other hand so matched to each other that at a mutual rotation of two connected to each other via a pin equally formed components, the webs resiliently dodge and engage in the respective adjacent grooves of the pin. In order to avoid too great elasticity of the side walls, between each pair of adjacent webs a parallel to this extending, integrally connected to the cover plate and the side walls intermediate wall is provided. When assembling and thereby selecting the angular position is made aware of this during adjustment by a "clack" -like sound when snapping the web edges in the grooves. When jamming not only the respective pair of webs with the opposite side walls soft slightly outward, but the edges of the webs are also pressed apart, so that the installation and release of the components is greatly facilitated.

To create a modular game system, which also allows the realization of large-scale devices with smooth uninterrupted surfaces to achieve a true-to-the-front appearance and a solid locking connection with permanently consistent locking and holding properties, is from the DE 195 06 701 A1 a connecting element which has first latching elements on its one side for easily detachable connection with corresponding first recesses on the components and second latching devices on its other side to difficult to detach connection with corresponding second recesses of the components. By this concept, the production of the actual components is separated from the production of the connecting elements and only when the child takes such a game system in use, it brings everywhere there fasteners on a hard detachable locking connection to the components. In detail, it is intended in that the connecting elements with their second latching devices can be inserted into the second latching recesses of the components such that only the first latching elements protrude outward from the respective surface of the component receiving the second latching recess. This means that the connecting elements are positively received in the respective component and only the first locking elements protrude outward. These first locking elements are conveniently designed pin-shaped, in particular in the form of a cross-slotted pin. It is also advantageously provided that the first locking elements are formed on a rectangular base body and the slots extend in the direction of the diagonal of the rectangular base body. In the region of the outer ends of the peg-shaped latching elements latching projections are formed, which extend approximately in the direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the peg-shaped latching elements. These latching projections may extend only over a part of each sector of the cross-shaped slotted peg-shaped latching elements, in particular such that each of four latching projections extends on both sides of the center of a rectangle side. The second locking devices are formed by latching projections on the base body of the connecting elements. In this case, each base body may have a rectangular, not square basic shape and the latching projections may each be arranged on the longitudinal sides of the base body. By this configuration it is achieved that the latching connection is not solved by rotational movements, accordingly is difficult to solve. A release of this locking connection is possible only by train in the direction perpendicular to the main body of the connecting element. In contrast, allows the above-described easily releasable locking connection with the aid of the slotted pin twisting of two so connected components against each other, so that without the easily releasable locking connection would have to be solved, components can be positioned relative to each other or repositioning is possible. The recesses are slot-like-oblong, rectangular, so that a component with a connecting element in the longitudinal direction of the slot is slidably lockable. Due to the rectangular configuration of the recess with arranged on two opposite sides undercuts and the corresponding locking projections on the body, a locking connection so prepared is not to be solved by turning or loosening, ie the locking connection is fixed and can only by relatively high application of force in the exact axial direction be solved. Finally, it is still possible to form locking recesses around, so that when making a locking connection, the so-connected parts can be freely pivoted against each other. This embodiment can always be provided when it either does not depend on the relative angular orientation of two components to be connected or the pivoting is specifically desired.

In order to achieve a positioning of the blocks when assembling of plug-in blocks, is from the DE 20 2012 001 201 U1 a block known at the top positioning columns and in the interior positioning channels are arranged, wherein the positioning columns are inserted into the positioning channels during assembly of the blocks. Specifically, the package is formed as a rectangular case and has a top wall, four side walls, and an opening at the bottom, with a plurality of rectangular protruding blocks projecting from the outside surface of the top wall. An indentation is formed on each of the four side surfaces of the projecting blocks, wherein a positioning column is formed between two adjacent indentations. In the housing a plurality of protruding ribs on the inside of each side wall is arranged spaced, wherein between each two adjacent protruding ribs of two adjacent side walls, a positioning channel is formed and wherein a demarcated by the positioning channel receiving space coincides with the outer diameter of the positioning. Thus, the distance between the protruding ribs coincides with the width of the indentation so that when a Block is pulled only on the outer sides of one of the protruding blocks of another block, the blocks can still not rotate relatively and thus be stably positioned. Compared to the conventional building blocks, in which the round tube protruding from the inner surface of the upper wall and the protruding block projecting therefrom abut against the overhanging block, in the building block of FIG DE 20 2012 001 201 U1 neither a round tube nor a reinforcing wall needed, which material costs can be saved.

Also is from the US 2014/256211 A1 a game module with a one-sided open, box-like hollow body, which has at least four disposed on the bottom outside in each corner cylindrical plug-in nubs, a centrally arranged on the bottom inside prismatic bottom dome and arranged on the inner wall of each side surface of the hollow body rib, such that a connection of the toy building blocks by jamming the studs on the top of the toy building blocks between existing in the building block inside floor dome and the ribs takes place.

As the above appreciation of the prior art shows, differently designed plug-in modules are known with a one-sided open, box-like hollow body and arranged on the bottom outside cylindrical coupling socket / primary pins (plug-in nubs) and disposed on the bottom inside secondary pin (floor dome). To increase the force to hold the plug-in modules by frictional in some cases on the inside of the side walls of the hollow body and / or on partitions inwardly directed webs / ribs have been proposed, which are perpendicular and the points of contact with the plugged at the Outside of the hollow body arranged in cross-section circular or polygonal coupling pin (primary pin) represent.

The invention is based on the object, the game module according to the DE 1 076 007 B or the US 2014/256211 A1 further develop with a only tangential jamming between the game blocks such that an increased frictional engagement is achieved.

This object is achieved with a toy building block according to the preamble of patent claim 1, characterized in that both the nubs on the top of the toy building block and the floor dome on the bottom of the toy building block are designed as an n-sided straight prism with parallel and equal side edges and that the rib is designed as a double-footed retaining lug.

The toy building block according to the invention has the advantage that, when plugged together, a wide, planar clamping of the individual toy building blocks relative to one another is achieved. This jamming is intensified by the knobs on the top higher than the game blocks according to the DE 1 076 007 B . DE 1 837 030 U . DE 2 242 046 A . DE 16 78 326 C3 or DE 60012300 T2 be made. The contact surfaces are thereby even larger. In particular, the problem in the prior art is avoided that the only point-to-point connection between the components loses connection force the fewer connections are established. Compared to the round studs of the individual toy bricks an improvement in the wear resistance is achieved in the game module according to the invention, since in the round geometry of the studs only a few supporting surfaces when plugging the blocks are present and thus increased wear occurs.

In a further development of the invention, according to claim 2, the nubs and the floor dome are designed as an octagonal straight prism whose corners is designed with smooth edges or rounded edges. This development of the invention has the advantage that an exact positioning in line or in each case 45 ° - allows angular position with the same clamping force. The gradations of the corner rounding are fluid, so that all corner shapes from absolutely round to absolutely square are included and the force required for twisting the play block in the inserted state can be set specifically.

FIG. 1

im Detail verschiedene Abstufungen der Eckenabrundung von Stecknoppe und Boden-Dom,

FIG. 2

im Detail verschiedene Durchbruchsformen am Boden der Stecknoppe,

FIG. 3a

im Detail die Bodenansicht für die Verklemmung und Verrastung einer Ausführungsform von erfindungsgemäßen Spielbausteinen,

FIG. 3b

im Detail die Draufsicht des Spielbausteins nach FIG. 3a,

FIG. 3c

im Detail die Bodenansicht für die Verklemmung eines Spielbausteins mit Primär- und Sekundarzapfen mit einem erfindungsgemäßen Spielbaustein nach FIG. 3a,

FIG. 3d

im Detail die Draufsicht für die Verklemmung eines Spielbausteins mit Primär- und Sekundarzapfen mit einem erfindungsgemäßen Spielbaustein nach FIG. 3a,

FIG. 4a

in Seitenansicht eine Ausführungsform von erfindungsgemäßen Spielbausteinen ohne Rastelementen,

FIG. 4b

den Spielbaustein nach FIG. 4a teilweise im Schnitt,

FIG. 4c

die Bodenansicht des Spielbausteins nach FIG. 4a,

FIG. 4d

die Draufsicht des Spielbausteins nach FIG. 4a,

FIG. 5a

in Seitenansicht eine weitere Ausführungsform von erfindungsgemäßen Spielbausteinen mit Verklemmung und Rastelementen,

FIG. 5b

den Spielbaustein nach FIG. 5a teilweise im Schnitt,

FIG. 5c

die Bodenansicht des Spielbausteins nach FIG. 5a,

FIG. 5d

die Draufsicht des Spielbausteins nach FIG. 5a und

FIG. 6a bis 6c

im Detail für eine Ausführungsform von Rastelementen die Verrastung der erfindungsgemäßen Spielbausteine.

Further advantages and details can be taken from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the drawing. In the drawing shows:

FIG. 1

in detail different gradations of the corner rounding of Stecknoppe and ground dome,

FIG. 2

in detail different breakthrough forms at the bottom of the plug,

FIG. 3a

in detail the bottom view for the jamming and locking of an embodiment of game blocks according to the invention,

FIG. 3b

in detail the top view of the game module after FIG. 3a .

FIG. 3c

in detail the bottom view for the jamming of a game module with primary and secondary pins with a game module according to the invention after FIG. 3a .

FIG. 3d

in detail, the top view for the jamming of a game module with primary and secondary cones with a game module according to the invention FIG. 3a .

FIG. 4a

in side view an embodiment of game blocks according to the invention without locking elements,

FIG. 4b

the game module after FIG. 4a partly in section,

FIG. 4c

the bottom view of the game module after FIG. 4a .

FIG. 4d

the top view of the game module after FIG. 4a .

FIG. 5a

in side view another embodiment of game blocks according to the invention with clamping and locking elements,

FIG. 5b

the game module after FIG. 5a partly in section,

FIG. 5c

the bottom view of the game module after FIG. 5a .

FIG. 5d

the top view of the game module after FIG. 5a and

FIG. 6a to 6c

in detail for an embodiment of locking elements, the locking of the game building blocks according to the invention.

According to the prior art, the play module SB according to the invention is based on a unilaterally open, box-like hollow body H, arranged at the bottom outside in each corner Stecknoppen S and at least one arranged on the bottom inside floor dome B, wherein a connection of the game building blocks SB by jamming / Friction occurs.

According to the invention, both the studs S on the upper side of the toy building block SB and the floor dome B on the underside of the toy building block SB are designed as an n-cornered straight prism with parallel and equally long side edges, thereby achieving surface clamping. Preferably, on the inside of the side wall of the hollow body H perpendicular, that is provided from the bottom to the opening of the hollow body H extending double-leg retaining lug 2. The distance between the mutually parallel webs of the retaining lug 2 is selected such that each Stecknoppe S is repeatedly contacted and in reducing the material consumption, a flexibility of the releasable connection is achieved. Thus, both the game building blocks SB according to the invention, which are clamped flat with each other (see, for example FIG. 4c , Clamping surface 1), as well as knob components from other manufacturers compatible with good grip are installed. In particular, the retaining lugs 2 have a rounded leading edge E in order to simplify the insertion of the nubs S to be plugged. In this case, each web or each web of the retaining lug 2 have an E leading edge, preferably a run-on slope with a recess at the end of the slope for snapping / clicking the locking element SR of the Stecknoppe S in a game building block SB with click system. As a result, requirements for a secure connection and solution with relatively high power consumption can be met. Furthermore, the user no longer has to bring the plug-in knobs S (cylindrical coupling pieces / primary pins in the prior art) with the bottom domes B (secondary pins, positioning channels in the prior art) accurately to each other before he can exert the pressure for the final merger.

At the in FIG. 3a to FIG 5d In the embodiments shown, the plug-in knobs S and the bottom dome B are designed as an octagonal straight prism whose corners are designed with smooth edges or with rounded edges (see FIG FIG. 1 ). For example, shows FIG.1 , Letter a) octagonal with smooth Edges and letter e) octagonal with rounded edges.

1. 1. Abstandshalter zu gegengesteckten Bausteinen SB
2. 2. Verklemmung von kompatiblen Bausteinen
3. 3. Versteifung der Domwandung

If compatible components of different manufacturers are now to be connected, the connection force between the components and the game component SB according to the invention can be further reduced. This problem is solved according to the invention, arranged on the bottom side spacing and clamping catches AZ at the bottom dome B, which fulfill the following functions:

1. 1. Spacer to opposing blocks SB
2. 2. Jamming of compatible components
3. 3. Stiffening of the cathedral wall

According to the invention, the plug-in knobs S on the bottom openings 4 with different shapes. These openings 4 are used to hold plug-in elements, axles, rods, etc. The openings 4 also contribute to the decorative appearance by this as numbers, letters and jewelry such. B. flowers, hearts, crowns, figures, animals, etc. are formed (see FIG. 2 or FIG. 4c with octagonal or round breakthrough 4). The apertures 4 are angled between 0 ° and 360 ° or, based on the dimple internal dimension, scaled between 0% and 100%. In addition, a continuous air circulation is achieved through the apertures 4, which ensures the oxygen supply in case of intentional or accidental spillage of a toy building block SB in a body opening to the removal of the foreign body. Each game module SB has at least one breakthrough 4.

In order to save material in the production of the toy building block SB, they are designed for low wall thicknesses, in particular between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm, preferably between 0.8 mm and 1.2 mm. The necessary stability of the hollow body H is ensured by the incorporation of small, vertical webs 5 (web height between 0.1 mm and 1.0 mm, preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.6 mm; In particular, between the retaining lugs 2 extending parallel to these stabilizing webs 5 are arranged (see, for example FIG. 4c or FIG. 5c ). As a result, less plastic is used or consumed, the game blocks SB thus receive no higher weight and the environment is burdened to a lesser extent than necessary.

To secure the position of the bottom dome B and intercept the insertion forces even when done with high effort oblique plug, at least two intermediate walls Z are arranged between the bottom dome B and side wall of the hollow body H. For example, shows FIG. 4c for the centrally arranged floor dome B four partitions Z and FIG. 5c for the three floor dome B the connection of the centrally arranged floor dome B with four partitions Z on the one hand to the side wall of the hollow body H on the other hand to the two adjacent floor dome B. Furthermore, the floor dome B can be designed with low wall thickness, so that on the one hand the elasticity of the clamping connection is increased and on the other hand higher dimensional tolerances are possible.

Like the embodiments of the game module SB after FIG. 3a to FIG. 5d Show all edges of the game block SB are rounded off handily. Thus, the increased security needs of the target group is taken into account and the risk of bruises or injuries is therefore kept low.

With the compatible components from different manufacturers, it can only be guaranteed by eye or pressure that they have reached their final, desired position. According to the invention, a click system is provided which ensures for the user, in addition to visual and tactile, to obtain an acoustic perception of the execution of the jamming of two toy building blocks SB. In detail, the plug-in knobs S in the region of the outer ends on the side wall arranged locking elements SR, which are arranged in the insertion process in the retaining lugs 2 or on the side wall of the spacer and clamping cams AZ arranged corresponding locking receptacles AR in the form of locking projections or in the side wall recesses or recesses. When closing the detachable connection, the game blocks SB audibly lock together by the assembly of two or more game bricks SB, the force required to increase until shortly before reaching the final position and then abruptly drops again. As a result, the two surfaces, namely the bottom surface / edge of the toy building block SB to be installed and the top surface of the already installed toy building block SB strike each other and generate a so-called clicking sound.

Preferably, the locking elements SR are designed as locking projections in the form of lugs, webs, rings, points or locking receptacles in the form of recesses or recesses AR. These are of such a nature that they engage, snap in, snap over and / or click into complementary and / or overlapping equivalent shapes on the underside of the play module SB on the bottom dome B and / or the asymmetrical retaining lugs 2 during the insertion process. In the context of the invention, the latching projections SR or latching receptacles AR (recesses or recesses) have run-on slopes or undercuts. In particular, this allows not only the clamping connection (frictional connection / frictional engagement), the additional positive locking a secure both positive and non-positive connection and the release of this connection with defined force.

In FIG. 6a to FIG. 6c an embodiment of the click system is shown. The advantage of such a clamping or latching connection over a conventional plug connection (area, point or line clamping) is the relaxed end position of the toy building blocks SB after assembly. This is particularly characterized by the fact that even after a long connection, more often Disassembly and reassembly with other (compatible) game components, no significant loss in the strength of the clamp connection occurs. A reduction in the pull-off forces due to the nature of the surfaces and the surface covering (eg grease, hand sweat) is likewise not recognizable. The geometry of the toy building blocks SB to be connected can be designed in any shape of the hollow body H (round, rectangular, triangular, etc.).

As FIG. 6a shows, when crushing the blocks SB1 and SB2 of the required effort to the highest point of the nubs (nose, ring, point) SR increases. The highest point of the pimples SR corresponds to the highest effort, as this FIG. 6b shows. After overcoming the highest Noppenpunkte the applied force drops sharply and the block SB 1 strikes with its bottom surface on the cover surface of the block SB2 (over the latching position away to the mechanical stop). This creates an audible click sound.

To further increase the elasticity of the connection region, the latching elements SR, in particular on the plug-in knobs S, or the latching receptacles AR, in particular on the pinnacles 3 of the bottom dome B, a thinned wall thickness.

In summary, it is achieved with the toy building block SB that environmentally friendly production with environmentally friendly materials enables a toy building block to be connected by a surface connection to another, wherein this building block can be designed with a small wall thickness. The cohesion of the game blocks SB is improved by double noses, polygonal sockets SR and polygonal floor dome B. The success of the game is also documented acoustically. The existing hazards for the target group are minimized.

In the invention, for generating an audible click sound in addition to the locking elements SRoder alternatively the lateral surfaces of the Stecknoppen S and corresponding to the lateral surfaces of the bottom dome B sections smoothly, with slightly profiled or rough surface (friction surface) and then again with a smooth surface be executed, so that only in this (intermediate) area and before reaching the end position an increased insertion force is required. Conversely, this also applies to the withdrawal forces With regard to the connection of the game blocks SB at an angle to each other, for example in multiples of a 45 ° angle in an octagonal straight prism or multiples of a 60 ° angle in a six-cornered straight prism or multiples of a 90 ° angle in a four-cornered straight prism, while maintaining the improved cohesion and clicking noise can in the context of the invention in sections extending at an angle to the horizontal locking recesses AR (recesses or recesses) run-on slopes or undercuts are designed. Corresponding to this, the latching elements SR, in particular latching projections in the form of lugs, webs, rings, points or depressions or recesses AR sections and / or executed at an angle to the horizontal. In the context of the invention, the n-cornered dimple and dome shape S, B can also be used either only as an outer form or only as an inner form (see FIG Fig.1 , No. x and No. y), or designed as an outer and inner mold.

Furthermore, the toy building blocks SB based on a biodegradable biopolymer (instead of the plastic acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS)), in particular a high-quality thermoplastic material based on the natural polymer lignin, biopolymers, polyhydroxyalkanoates, butyrates, polycaprolactone, polyester, Starch, Ingeo TM, Natural resins, waxes, oils, natural fatty acids, cellulose, biological additives, and natural reinforcing fibers. In this case, the connection strength or stability between assembled toy building blocks SB can be defined defined by the geometric design and shape and surface quality, roughness and material composition of the connecting elements of the stones, in turn about too high a connection stability and rigidity also taking into account the Breakthroughs 4 in to prevent the plug-in knobs S and a similar to game blocks SB made of impact-resistant plastics, such as plastic ABS mechanical stability, comparable appearance or feel, such as Spritzgießversuche and testing the mechanical properties, heat resistance, loss of shape, processability,

Weathering resistance and biodegradability prove this.

Claims (10)

1. A toy brick (SB) comprising a one-sided open, box-shaped hollow body (H), having at least four cylindrical plug-in studs (S) arranged on an upper side of bottom in each corner, one on the bottom inside centrally arranged prismatic bottom dome (B) and one on the inner wall of each side surface of the hollow body (H) arranged rib, such that a connection of the toy brick (SB) by jamming on the top of the toy brick (SB) the plug-in studs (S) between the present bottom dome (B) and the ribs, characterized in that both the plug-in studs (S) arranged at the top of toy brick (SB) and the bottom dome (B) arranged at the bottom of the toy brick (SB) are configured as n-sided straight prism with parallel and equal side edges and that the rib is designed as a double-stepped holding nose (2).
2. Toy brick (SB) according to claim 1, characterized in that the plug-in studs (S) and the bottom dome (B) are designed as an octagonal straight prism, whose corners are designed with smooth edges or rounded edges.
3. Toy brick (SB) according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that on the bottom side spacer and clamping catches (AZ) are arranged on the bottom dome (B), which fulfill the following functions:

   1. Spacers for opposing toy bricks (SB)

   2. Jamming of compatible toy bricks (SB)

   3. Stiffening a wall of the dome.
4. Toy brick (SB) according to one or more of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the plug-in studs (S) at the bottom have openings (4) with different shapes.
5. Toy brick (SB) according to one or more of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that between the holding noses (2) parallel to these extending stabilizing webs (5) are arranged.
6. Toy brick (SB) according to one or more of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that between the bottom dome (B) and side wall of the hollow body (H) at least two intermediate walls (Z) are arranged.
7. Toy brick (SB) according to one or more of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the plug-in studs (S) having locking elements (SR) arranged in the region of the outer ends on the side wall, which are introduced during the insertion process in the holding noses (2) or on the side wall of the spacer and clamping catches (AZ) arranged corresponding locking receptacles (AR) in the form of locking projections or arranged in the side wall recesses or recesses and that when closing the detachable connection the toy brick (SB) together an audibly lock occurs.
8. Toy brick (SB) according to claim 7, characterized in that the latching elements (SR) are designed as locking projections in the form of lugs, webs, rings, points or depressions or recesses.
9. Toy brick (SB) according to claim one or more of claims 7 to 8, characterized in that the latching projections or recesses or recesses have run-up bevels or undercuts.
10. Toy brick (SB) according to claim one or more of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that to further increase the elasticity of the connecting region, the locking elements (SR) or latching receptacles (AR) have a narrower wall thickness.

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