Abstract: A toy vehicle is fabricated from a plurality of construction toy elements which are commonly coupled by a plurality of interlockable couplers. The basic coupler mechanism utilizes a cube-like body having a plurality of extending flanges and supporting cylindrical bosses which are received within appropriately shaped slots in the various construction toy elements. A plurality of specialty elements are provided which facilitate the fabrication of a steering assembly for use on a toy vehicle or the like. The steering assembly employs a steering wheel having integral gear and a gear rack together with a plurality of pivoting couplers and a combination of interlocking couplers and construction toy elements.

Abstract: A plurality of arcuate beam elements each having ends defining coupling mechanisms is assembled in an interlocking framework using a plurality of multiply couplable couplers to form arcuate segments which define a sphere or portion of a sphere. A plurality of spherical inserts each defining a one-eighth spherical segment is assembled to the spherical framework to complete a sphere or spherical segment using a snap-fit attachment.

Abstract: A carrying case provides a storage space for toy building system components which include couplers and building pieces. The case has a hinged lid with apertures which can detachably receive and lockably mount the couplers. The apertures are arranged in an array of staggered rows laid out so that couplers mounted on the lid can be interconnected by the building pieces. Models can be built upon the mounted couplers in a desired form and configuration. Each aperture on the lid is configured to receive a coupler peg in an insertion area. The peg includes a neck and a head. In order to lockably mount the coupler, it is shifted laterally from the insertion area, so that the peg neck moves through a transition channel and into a clasping area where the coupler is locked in position. The coupler cannot be removed vertically from the locked position because the peg head is trapped below the lid, compressing the lid between the coupler and the peg head.

Abstract: A ratchet mechanism includes an outer gear having a recess formed therein and an aperture for supporting the gear upon a shaft. The outer wall of the recess defines a plurality of angled facets forming a saw-tooth configuration. A ratchet pawl includes a pair of opposed resilient spring tabs which engage the angled facet saw-tooth combination in one direction of rotation while disengaging in the opposite direction. A second gear is secured to the ratchet pawl and defines an aperture for rotational support upon a shaft. A frame supports the ratchet mechanism in engagement with a pivotally supported drive arm. The drive arm includes a gear segment having a plurality of gear teeth engaging one of the gears of the ratchet mechanism. The drive arm further includes a coupling flange at the opposite end from the gear segment which is securable to a source of reciprocating power. A bevel gear engages the remaining gear of the ratchet mechanism and is rotatably supported upon the frame by a driven shaft.