Abstract: A construction toy system comprised of a plurality of molded plastic girders and connectors. The girder elements of generally square cross section, with interlocking elements extending axially from each end. The interlocking elements each comprise a flange of square configuration, a groove structure of squared configuration adjacent the flange, and a generally cylindrical rod-like extension projecting between the end of the girder body and the groove structure. Connector elements are formed with one or more sockets for receiving interlocking elements of the girders. The sockets have one open side into which the interlocking elements can be inserted with a lateral snap-in action. The flange portions are freely received in a slot formed in the socket, and the groove structure engages and cooperates with opposed locking ribs formed on the sidewalls of the connector socket. Opposed axial grooves in the socket sidewalls engage opposite side portions of the rod-like extension with a snap-in locking action.

Abstract: A construction toy system comprised of a plurality of molded plastic girders and connectors. The girder elements of generally square cross section, with interlocking elements extending axially from each end. The interlocking elements each comprise a flange of square configuration, a groove structure of squared configuration adjacent the flange, and a generally cylindrical rod-like extension projecting between the end of the girder body and the groove structure. Connector elements are formed with one or more sockets for receiving interlocking elements of the girders. The sockets have one open side into which the interlocking elements can be inserted with a lateral snap-in action. The flange portions are freely received in a slot formed in the socket, and the groove structure engages and cooperates with opposed locking ribs formed on the sidewalls of the connector socket. Opposed axial grooves in the socket sidewalls engage opposite side portions of the rod-like extension with a snap-in locking action.

Abstract: A gripping device or the like, particularly for gripping hot pans. First and second movable members are formed by molding with structural plastic material. One of the members has a pivot post extending laterally and defining a pivot axis. The other movable member has a tubular pivot member, arranged for a close fit reception over the pivot post to pivotally join the two movable members. At least one pivot post and the tubular pivot member is integral with a movable member. The pivot post has an annular groove, and the tubular pivot member includes a plurality of integral, resilient locking tabs having portions projecting radially inward at a shallow angle to the pivot axis. The two movable members are assembled by forcing the tubular pivot member over the pivot post. The locking tabs are resiliently displaced outwardly during the assembly, and snap into place in the annular groove to positively lock the two parts together.

Abstract: A gripping device or the like, particularly for gripping hot pans. First and second movable members are formed by molding with structural plastic material. One of the members has an integral pivot post extending laterally and defining a pivot axis. The other movable member has an integral tubular pivot member, arranged for a close fit reception over the pivot post to pivotally join the two movable members. The pivot post has an annular groove, and the tubular pivot member includes a plurality of integral, resilient locking tabs having portions projecting radially inward at a shallow angle to the pivot axis. The two movable members are assembled by forcing the tubular pivot member over the pivot post. The locking tabs are resiliently displaced outwardly during the assembly, and snap into place in the annular groove to positively lock the two parts together.

Abstract: A chain drive mechanism, especially for a construction toy system, is assembled with individual U-shaped chain link elements. The chain link elements are notched at their open ends and provided with bearing portions at their closed ends. The notched open ends are arranged for snap-fit attachment over the bearing portions of adjacent links, enabling a flexible chain of any length to be easily assembled. Drive pins, preferably coaxial with the bearing portions, project outwardly from each side of the chain links and are engagable with grooves of spaced-apart drive wheels, collectively forming a sprocket assembly. The drive wheels can be individual gear elements otherwise used in a toy construction system for gear drive mechanisms. The base portions of the U-shaped link elements are grooved transversely for the snap-fit attachment of construction toy connector parts, allowing the chain elements to carry other components.