ADHESIVE TOY BEADS

Abstract

Disclosed are toy systems for creating and fixing an array of polygon shaped plastic beads together to form a design. The toy systems can include an upper tray, a lower tray, a plurality of beads, and a template. The plurality of beads can engage pins on the surface of the lower tray. Each of the beads can be configured to fuse or adhere to adjacent beads upon drying after the application of liquid to the plurality of beads engaged to the lower tray, forming a fixed array of beads. The upper tray can be configured to engage the pins of the lower tray between the lower tray and the plurality of beads. The upper tray can be used to remove a fixed or loose array of beads from the lower tray. The template can provide a design for the plurality of beads.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57. This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/728,933, filed Jun. 2, 2015, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Field

This invention relates to toy assemblies, and more particularly, relates to toy assemblies for creating designs out of beads fused together by drying after applying liquid to the beads.

Description of the Related Art

Toy assemblies can allow for the creation of a structure out of multiple components. Assemblies may include several interlocking pieces that can be attached and detached. Components may also be attached by applying an adhesive, by heating the pieces to fuse pieces together using heat sources such as an iron or oven, or by engaging multiple components with a connecter such as a string, wire, thread, screw, or fastener.

SUMMARY

In certain embodiments, a system for creating and fixing an array of polygon shaped plastic beads together to form a design is disclosed. The system includes a tray having a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the tray and a plurality of polygon shaped beads. Each of the beads includes a receptacle configured to receive one of the plurality of pins so as to anchor to the tray and form an array of beads. Each bead is sized and shaped to achieve sufficient contact with an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead once dry after a liquid is applied to the array.

Embodiments further include a template having a plurality of apertures arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins when the template is disposed on the tray and below the plurality of beads. The template can also include a design configured to guide the placement of the plurality of beads. The tray and template can also be configured so that when the template is engaged to the tray, the design is oriented in a particular direction on the tray. The system can also be configured so that removal of the template from the tray causes the removal of the plurality of beads from the tray.

The tray, template, and beads may further be configured to allow for the draining of liquid from the system. The tray may have multiple perimeter members to allow for draining from the tray. The beads may have a plurality of dimples configured to engage the tray or template to allow for the flow of liquid between the beads and the tray or template. The beads may also include one or more shaped edges to facilitate the flow of liquid between beads and between the beads and the tray or template.

In another embodiment, a toy system for creating and fixing an array of polygon shaped plastic beads together to form a design is disclosed. The system includes a tray having a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the tray and a plurality of beads made from a material. Each bead has a plurality of planar outer surfaces and a receptacle. The receptacle is configured to receive one of the plurality of pins so as to anchor to the tray and form an array. Each of the plurality of planar outer surfaces is configured to achieve sufficient contact with an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead when dry after a liquid is applied to the array.

In another embodiment, a bead for fusing together with an adjacent bead is disclosed. The bead has a body with a plurality of planar outer surfaces and a receptacle. The receptacle is configured to releasably receive a pin. Each of the plurality of planar outer surfaces is configured to achieve sufficient contact with an outer surface of an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead when dry after a liquid is applied to the bead and the adjacent bead.

In another embodiment, a toy system for creating and fixing an array of polygon shaped plastic beads together to form a design is disclosed. The system includes a tray having an upper surface and a plurality of polygon shaped beads made from a material. Each bead is sized and shaped to achieve sufficient contact with an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead when dry after a liquid is applied to the plurality of beads when the plurality of beads is arranged to form an array on the upper surface of the tray.

In another embodiment, a toy system for creating and fixing a plurality of polygon shaped beads together to form a design is disclosed. The system includes a lower tray having a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the lower tray and an upper tray having a plurality of apertures arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins when the upper tray is disposed on the lower tray. The plurality of pins are sized and shaped to receive the plurality of polygon shaped beads. The upper tray is at least partially transparent.

In another embodiment, a toy system for creating and fixing a plurality of polygon shaped beads together to form a design is disclosed. The system includes a lower tray having a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the lower tray, an upper tray having a plurality of apertures arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins when the upper tray is disposed on the lower tray and below the plurality of polygon shaped beads, and a template having one or more visual indications thereon. The one or more visual indications are configured to indicate one or more positions on the lower tray for placement of one or more of the plurality of polygon shaped beads.

In another embodiment, a toy system for creating and fixing a plurality of polygon shaped beads together to form a tiered bead design is provided. The system includes a base and a tray coupled to the base so as to rotate more than 90 degrees relative to the base about an axis between a first position and a second position. The tray is configured to receive a plurality of polygon shaped beads when in the first position and facilitate ejection of the plurality of polygon shaped beads when in the second position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several embodiments in accordance with the disclosure and are not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will now be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a toy system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the toy system of FIG. 1 which includes a tray, a template, and a plurality of beads.

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the tray of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the tray of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a top view of the tray of FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the tray of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the tray of FIG. 5 taken along lines 7-7 as depicted in FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the tray of FIG. 5 taken along lines 8-8 as depicted in FIG. 5.

FIG. 9 is an enlarged top view of a pin of the tray of FIG. 5 taken along line 9-9 as depicted in FIG. 5.

FIG. 10 is a side view of the pin of FIG. 9 taken along line 10-10 as depicted in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the pin of FIG. 9 taken along line 11-11 as depicted in FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the template of FIG. 2.

FIG. 13 is a top view of the template of FIG. 12.

FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view of one of the plurality of beads from FIG. 2.

FIG. 15 is a top view of the bead of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a side view of the bead of FIG. 14.

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the bead of FIG. 14 taken along line 17-17 as depicted in FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 is a bottom view of the bead of FIG. 14.

FIG. 19 is a side view of a section of the toy system of FIG. 1 showing the plurality of beads attached to the pins of the tray with the template therebetween.

FIG. 20 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20 in FIG. 19 through one of the plurality of beads showing the bead engaged with the pin of the tray.

FIG. 21 is a top view of the section of FIG. 19 in which internal surfaces and features of the plurality of beads and pins are shown by dashed lines taken along line 21-21 as depicted in FIG. 19.

FIG. 22 is a top-down exploded view of a toy system which includes a lower tray, an upper tray, a template, and a plurality of beads according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a bottom-up exploded view of the toy system of FIG. 22.

FIG. 24 is a top view of the lower tray of FIG. 22.

FIG. 25 is a side view of the lower tray taken along line 25-25 as depicted in FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a top view of the upper tray of FIG. 22.

FIG. 27 is a side view of the upper tray of FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a top view of the template of FIG. 22.

FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of a toy system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a rear perspective view of the toy system of FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 is an exploded view of a section of the toy system of FIG. 29 showing a upper tray, a lower tray, a handle, a pair of lever arms, a pair of ejection plates, a pair of springs, and a hinge pin.

FIG. 32 is an exploded view of a section of the toy system of FIG. 29 showing a stack tray, a stack plate, a stack base, a pair of sidewalls, a base plate, a rear wall, and a plurality of rubber stoppers.

FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of the toy system taken along line 33-33 as depicted in FIG. 30.

FIG. 34 is a top view of the toy system of FIG. 29.

FIG. 35 is a side view of the toy system of FIG. 29.

FIG. 36 is a bottom view of the toy system of FIG. 29.

FIG. 37 is a rear view of the toy system of FIG. 29.

FIG. 38 is a front view of the toy system of FIG. 29.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the toy system of FIG. 29 in which arrows and dashed components are provided to indicate movement of components of the toy system in use.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the toy system of FIG. 29 in which an arrow is provided to indicate movement of components of the toy system in use.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of the toy system of FIG. 29 in which an arrow is provided to indicate movement of components of the toy system in use.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the toy system of FIG. 29 in which an arrow is provided to indicate movement of components of the toy system in use.

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of the toy system taken along line 43-43 as depicted in FIG. 42 in which arrows are provided to indicate movement of components of the toy system in use.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the toy system of FIG. 29 in which arrows are provided to indicate movement of components of the toy system in use.

FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view of the toy system taken along line 45-45 as depicted in FIG. 44 in which an arrow is provided to indicate movement of components of the toy system in use.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is directed to certain specific embodiments. The invention(s) disclosed herein, however, can be embodied in a multitude of different ways as defined and covered by the claims. In this description, reference is made to the drawings, wherein like parts are designated with like numerals throughout. The features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings of several embodiments that are intended to be within the scope of the development herein disclosed. These and other embodiments will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of the embodiments having reference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited to any particular embodiment(s) herein disclosed.

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a toy system 100. Certain embodiments of the toy system 100 include a tray 110, a template 120, and a plurality of beads 130. During use, each of the plurality of beads 130 is arranged to create a desired design on the tray 110 by engaging the bead with a pin 112 at a desired location on the tray 110. Liquid is then applied to the design of beads 130. Once dry, the beads 130 of the design are fused together. In certain embodiments, the template 120 is disposed between the tray 110 and the plurality of beads 130. In certain embodiments, the template 120 provides a guide or design for the user when locating beads 130 on the pins 112 to achieve the desired design. The template 120 can include colored regions to guide placement of correspondingly colored beads 130. In certain embodiments, the template 120 is sized and shaped so that the template 120 facilitates removal of fused beads 130 from the tray 110. Of course the toy system 100 need not include the template 120 and can be used by placing the beads 130 directly on the tray 110.

The tray 110 includes a plurality of pins 112 extending from an upper surface of the tray 110. The template 120 includes a plurality of apertures 122. The plurality of pins 112 is configured to receive the plurality of apertures 122 and then engage with the plurality of beads 130. The template 120 can removably receive the plurality of pins 112. The beads 130 can removably engage the plurality of pins 112, both when the template 120 is engaged to the plurality of pins 112 and in the absence of the template 120. FIG. 1 shows the plurality of pins 112 of the tray 110 extending through the plurality of apertures 122 in the template 120. Four adjacent beads 130 are engaged with four pins 112. The template 120 is positioned on the tray 110 and below the four beads 130.

The plurality of beads 130 can be made of a material that is water soluble. When liquid is applied to the beads 130, the wetted outer surfaces of the beads 130 adhere to adjacent and contacting surfaces of beads 130 by partially dissolving. Exemplary materials for the beads 130 include inert plastic materials. The beads 130 may further include an embittering agent to make the beads 130 unpalatable to the user. Liquid may be applied to the plurality of beads 130 as a spray or mist. Liquid can also be applied by contacting the beads 130 with a liquid imbued material such as a sponge or rag. In certain embodiments, the array of beads 130 on the tray 110 may be submerged in a pool of liquid or may be translated across a fluid path such as an outflow of water from a faucet or hose.

Each of the plurality of beads 130 can be sized and shaped to achieve contact with one or more adjacent contacting beads 130 so as to adhere to the one or more adjacent beads 130 once dry after liquid is applied, allowing for the formation of a fused array of beads 130. The fused array of beads 130 adhere between surfaces of adjacent contacting beads 130. The template 120 can be configured to facilitate removal of the plurality of beads 130 from the tray 110. For example, when removing the template 120 when the template 120 is positioned between the tray 110 and the plurality of beads 130, a top surface of the template contacts a bottom surface of the plurality of beads 130. As the template 120 is pulled away from the top surface of the tray 110, the template 120 causes the plurality of beads 130 to slide towards a distal end of the plurality of pins 112 and eventually disengage from the pins 112.

The template 120 and the plurality of beads 130 can be configured so that minimal or no adhesion occurs between the plurality of beads 130 and the template 120, allowing for the removal of the fused array of beads 130 from the template 120 after the template 120 is removed from the tray 110.

FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the toy system 100 from FIG. 1. The toy system 100 includes the tray 110, the template 120, and the plurality of beads 130. The template 120 preferably includes a design 228. The design 228 can be configured to guide the placement of the plurality of beads 130 onto one or more of the plurality of pins 112 so that a fixed array of beads 130 can be formed in accordance with the design 228. Lines and other elements of the design 228 can be located amidst the plurality of apertures 122 so that the plurality of beads 130 can engage the plurality of pins 112 through the plurality of apertures 122 in accordance with the design 228. When a liquid, for example water, is administered to the plurality of beads 130, the plurality of beads 130 will fuse or adhere together once dry to form an array of beads representative of the design 228. The design 228 may include color to indicate which color of bead 130 should be engaged with a specific pin 112. In some embodiments, the template 120 includes a design on both the front and back surfaces of the template 120. In some embodiments, the template 120 will be configured to allow for writing, drawing, or printing so that a design can be customized by the user. For example, a software application can be used to create a design, such as design 228. The design can be printed on to the template 120. The software application may be internet based and can allow for the sharing of designs 228. It should be recognized that the design 228 need not be present in order for an array of beads to be formed.

FIGS. 3-8 illustrate the tray 110 from FIG. 2. FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the top of the tray 110. FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the bottom of the tray 110. FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate a top and a bottom view, respectively, of the tray 110. FIG. 7 is a side view of the tray 110 of FIG. 5 taken along lines 7-7 as depicted in FIG. 5. FIG. 8 is a side view of the tray 110 of FIG. 5 taken along lines 8-8 as depicted in FIG. 5. The tray 110 includes the plurality of pins 112. In certain embodiments, the tray 110 includes one or more protrusions 115 positioned on the top surface of the tray 110. In certain embodiments, the tray 110 includes one or more perimeter members 116, one or more handles 118, and one or more lip members 119.

The plurality of pins 112 can be disposed on the tray 110 in a 2D array of rows and columns. In certain embodiments, the pins 112 have a variable length so that the beads 130 can be arranged in three dimensions. The plurality of pins 112 can also be spaced so that one or more side surfaces of a bead in the plurality of beads 130, as depicted in FIG. 1, contact the side surfaces of adjacent beads 130 when the beads 130 are anchored to the plurality of pins 112.

The protrusions 115 can be configured to engage the template 120, as shown in FIG. 1. When engaged, the protrusions 115 can inhibit rotary movement of the template 120 relative to the tray 110 as well as provide guidance for the user to correctly align the template 120 on the top surface of the tray 110 during engagement. In some embodiments, the protrusions 115 may include one or more movable pieces, and can be configured to prevent movement in one or more directions. The moveable pieces can be configured to allow for release of the template 120 upon application of force to one or more of the movable pieces. In an alternative embodiment, the protrusions 115 can be configured to include an open slot between the protrusions 115 and the tray 110 allowing for the insertion of sections of the template 120 into the slots.

The handles 118 facilitate the user moving the tray 110. The lip members 119 can be configured to provide support for the tray 110. For embodiments where the handles 118 are disposed on the top of the lip members 119, the lip members 119 increase the height of the handles 118. A gap may be provided between the lip members 119 at the location of the handles 118 to allow for access to the bottom of the handle 118.

The perimeter members 116 can be configured to allow liquid to drain from the tray 110. The perimeter members 116 may also be configured to allow access to the bottom of the template 120 when the template 120 is placed on the tray 110.

In some embodiments, the tray 110 may further include one or more drains configured to allow excess liquid to pass through the tray 110. The one or more drains may be located between some of the plurality of pins 112, or on the surface of the tray 110 around the periphery of the plurality of pins 112. In some embodiments, the tray 110 can further include one or more removable stoppers configured to open and close the one or more drains. The one or more stoppers may be configured to rotate across a surface of the tray 110 to allow or block flow of liquid through the one or more drains. The one or more stoppers may be oriented on either a top or bottom surface of the tray 110. The tray 110 may further include one or more receptacles or recesses for collecting excess liquid below the top surface of the tray 110.

In certain embodiments, the tray 110 may not comprise a plurality of pins 112, but instead, the plurality of beads 130 may be placed on a surface of the tray 110. The surface of the tray 110 can include an adhesive material, such as a putty, for releasably fixing the beads 130 into an array on the tray 110. Alternatively, the adhesive material may be attached to a surface of each of the plurality of beads 130 or may be a separate component that can be applied to either the tray 110 or to the plurality of beads 130.

In certain embodiments, the tray 110 can comprise a plurality of channels, wherein each bead 130 can be inserted into one of the plurality of channels and the orientation of the tray 110 can be altered to allow for translational movement of the bead 130 within the channel due to the effects of gravity. Each channel can be configured to restrict the movement of the beads 130 in one or more directions. One or more channels may also be configured to allow for the application of liquid to the array of beads 130.

In some embodiments, the tray 110 may be made of a transparent or semi-transparent material. The tray 110 can also include a design on the surface of the tray 110. The design can be configured to guide the placement of the plurality of beads 130 onto one or more of the plurality of pins 112 so that a fixed array of beads can be formed in accordance with the design. In such an embodiment, the template 120 need not be used.

In some embodiments, the plurality of pins 112 can be configured so that the tops of the plurality of pins 112 are located at different heights such that the differences in height of adjacent pins 112 is small enough to allow for the side surfaces of each bead 130 to contact the side surfaces of one or more adjacent beads 130.

FIGS. 9-11 illustrate an embodiment of one of the plurality of pins 112. FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of one of the plurality of pins 112 taken along line 9-9 as depicted in FIG. 5. FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of one of the plurality of pins 112 taken along line 10-10 as depicted in FIG. 9. FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-section view of one of the plurality of pins 112 taken along line 11-11 as depicted in FIG. 9.

Each of the plurality of pins 112 can be configured to engage an aperture of the plurality of apertures 122 and a bead of the plurality of beads 130. In certain embodiments, the plurality of pins 112 may include one or more chamfered or radiused edges, such as shaped edge 114. The shaped edge 114 forms a transition surface between surfaces or vertices of the pins 112. The shaped edge 114 may be flat, curved, or have any other shape connecting the surfaces or vertices. The shaped edge 114 can be sized to facilitate anchoring of the plurality of beads 130 to the plurality of pins 112. The plurality of pins 112 may have a hexagonal cross-section. Alternatively, the shape of the cross-section of the pins 112 may be, but is not limited to, square, round, rectangular, triangular, diamond shaped, or octagonal.

In some embodiments, the plurality of pins 112 may include a diverse assortment of cross-section shapes, allowing for the engagement of multiple shapes of beads. As depicted in FIG. 11, each of the plurality of pins 112 has a solid interior. In alternative embodiments, the plurality of pins 112 may have a partially hollow or entirely hollow interior. The interior may be configured so that the plurality of pins 112 of a first tray 110 can engage the interior of the plurality of pins 112 of a second tray 110, so that multiple trays 110 can be stacked on top of each other.

FIGS. 12-13 illustrate an embodiment of the template 120 from FIG. 2. FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of the template 120. FIG. 13 shows a top view of the template 120. In certain embodiments, the template 120 includes the plurality of apertures 122. In certain embodiments, the template 120 includes one or more notches 124 and a tab 126.

The template 120 may be made of any material. For example, in certain embodiments the template 120 comprises polypropylene (“PP”). The template can also comprise acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (“ABS”). The plurality of apertures 122 is arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins 112 when the template 120 is disposed on the tray 110. The template 120 may be flexible, allowing for manipulation of sections of the template 120 to facilitate engagement to or removal from the tray 110. The template 120 can also comprise a hard rigid material to facilitate removal of the array of beads 130. In certain embodiments, the template 120 includes both flexible and rigid sections.

The tab 126 of the template 120 does not include apertures and can be configured to extend beyond an edge of the tray 110. The tab 126 can provide a surface for a drawing, text, or logo. The tab 126 may also provide a handle for a user adjusting or removing the template 120. The template 120 can include a design in the area having the plurality of apertures 122, such as the design 228, as depicted in FIG. 2. The template 120 may include a different design on both sides. In some embodiments, the tab 126 can include a small representation of the design 228. The template 120 can also be transparent or semitransparent, and can allow for a design on the top surface of the tray 110 to be visible through the template 120.

In certain embodiments, the template 120 is used primarily for removal of the plurality of beads 130. In certain embodiments, the system 100 may include a secondary template having the design 228. The secondary template can be configured to engage the plurality of pins 112 between the tray 110 and the template 120 or between the template 120 and the plurality of beads 130. The secondary template may also be configured for placement beneath the tray 110. In such embodiments, the tray 110 and template 120 can comprise a transparent or semi-transparent material to allow the design 228 to be visible when placing the plurality of beads 130. The secondary template may also be configured for use separate from the tray 110 and template 120 as a design reference.

The one or more notches 124 can be configured to engage with the one or more protrusions 115 of the tray 110, as depicted in FIG. 1. When the notches 124 are engaged with the protrusions 115, rotary movement of the template 110 relative to the tray 110 can be inhibited. The notches 124 may be configured so that the template 120 can be clocked in a particular orientation when engaged with the protrusions 115. For example, the notches 124 can be configured so that a design on the template 120, such as design 228 depicted in FIG. 2, can be oriented in a particular direction.

FIGS. 14-18 illustrates an embodiment of one of the plurality of beads 130. FIG. 14 illustrates a bottom perspective view of one of the plurality of beads 130. FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of one of the plurality of beads 130. FIG. 16 illustrates a side view of one of the plurality of beads 130. FIG. 17 illustrates a cross-sectional view of one of the plurality of beads 130 taken along line 17-17 of FIG. 15. FIG. 18 illustrates a bottom view of one of the plurality of beads 130. In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of beads 130 includes a receptacle 132. The plurality of beads 130 may include one or more chamfered or radiused edges, such as shaped edges 134, 136, 138. Each shaped edge 134, 136, 138 forms a transition surface between surfaces 140 or vertices of the beads 130. One or more of the shaped edges 134, 136, 138 may be flat, curved, or have any other shape connecting the surfaces 140 or vertices. In certain embodiments, each bead 130 includes one or more dimples 142.

The plurality of beads 130 can be made of a material that allows for adhesion or fusion once dry after liquid is applied. For example, the material may be primarily polyvinyl alcohol (“PVA”). The plurality of beads 130 can be made in a variety of different polygonal shapes and colors. For example, the beads 130 can include cubes, pyramids, cones, cylinders, spheres, hemispheres, polyhedrons, or combinations of various shapes. In some embodiments, a plurality of beads 130 can include multiple different shapes of beads 130. In some embodiments, the beads 130 can be configured to change color in response to, for example, the application of liquid. Each of the plurality of beads 130 can be sized and shaped to achieve contact with one or more adjacent beads 130 so as to adhere or fuse to the one or more adjacent beads 130 once dry after liquid is applied.

The receptacle 132 in each bead 130 is configured to engage one of the plurality of pins 112 as depicted in FIG. 1. The plurality of pins 112 and the receptacles 132 can be configured so that the beads 130 removably anchor to the tray 110 when engaged to the plurality of pins 112 and form an array of beads 130. The cross-sectional shape of the receptacle 132 can be hexagonal, square, round, rectangular, triangular, diamond shaped, or octagonal. The plurality of beads 130 can include beads 130 having different cross-sectional shapes.

The one or more edges 134, 136, 138 can be configured to facilitate liquid contacting adjacent beads 130. For example, the edge 134 is a radius and disposed on an edge of a top surface of the bead 130. The edge 134 can be configured to form a channel or partial gap for liquid to penetrate below the top surface of the plurality of beads 130 and between adjacent beads 130, as further depicted in FIGS. 19-21. The edge 136 is disposed on an edge of the side surface 140 of the beads 130. The edge 136 can be configured so as to form a channel or partial gap for liquid to flow from a top surface of the bead 130 towards a bottom surface of the bead 130, as further depicted in FIGS. 19-21. The edge 138 is disposed on an edge of a bottom surface of the bead 130. The edge 138 can be configured to form a channel or partial gap for the liquid to flow across the surface of the tray 110 and between adjacent beads 130 in the plurality of beads 130.

The sides 140 of each of the beads 130 can be substantially smooth and uniform. Having a gate mark on a side of a bead 130 can affect the bond between beads when liquid is applied. In some embodiments, a width of one or more of the edges 134, 136, 138 is selected to support a gate so that the gate does not interfere with the sides 140 of the beads 130. In some embodiments, the plurality of beads 130 may have one or more sharp edges that do not include a chamfer or radius.

The one or more dimples 142 extend from the bottom surface of the bead 130 to provide a gap or space between the bead 130 and the template 120 when the bead 130 is engaged with the pin 112. For embodiments that do not include the template 120, the one or more dimples contact the tray 110. The dimples 142 can be configured to provide a gap between the bottom surface of the bead and the surface of the tray 110 or the template 120. The gap may prevent the adherence of the bottom surface of the bead 130 to the template 120 at locations between the dimples 142. The dimples can be disposed around the periphery of the receptacle 132. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of beads 130 can include four dimples 132. The dimples may have rounded edges for contacting the surface of the tray 110 or the template 120.

In some embodiments, the plurality of beads 130 can include dimples 142 on multiple surfaces of the plurality of beads 130. For example, the plurality of beads 130 can include one or more dimples 142 on the top surface and bottom surface of each bead. In certain embodiments, the dimples 142 can be configured to allow liquid to flow between the multiple layers of the plurality of beads 130. The dimples 142 can allow for one or more of the plurality of beads 130 to be stacked on top of other beads in the plurality of beads 130 to form a three dimensional object. In certain embodiments, beads 130 not having dimples 142 are stacked on beads 130 which increases the contact or fused area between the layers of beads 130.

In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of beads 130 can include a pin or stud on the top surface of each bead 130. The pin or stud can be configured to engage a receptacle 132 of one of the plurality of beads 130. The pin or stud can be shaped like one of the pins 112 of the tray 110, allowing for multiple vertical layers of beads 130 creating the three dimensional object. In certain embodiments, the pins or studs are located on the top surface of the bead 130 to allow stacking of beads 130 forming straight columns of beads 130 or to allow beads 130 to be stacked over two side-by-side beads 130. For example, half of a stacked bead 130 could be over one of the side-by-side beads 130 while the other half of the stacked bead 130 is over the other one of the side-by-side beads 130.

In some embodiments, each of the receptacles 132 of the beads 130 can be configured to extend through to the top surface of the bead 130. In such an embodiment, a length of the pin 112 can be selected to enter the bottom surface of the bead 130 and protrude from the top surface of the bead 130, allowing for one or more other beads 130 to engage the pin 112 creating the three dimensional object.

In certain embodiments, one or more of the pins 112 are releasable from the tray 110. In such an embodiment, a user may press one or more of the pins 112 into recesses or holes in the tray 110 or remove one or more of the pins 112 from the recesses or holes.

In certain embodiments, the one or more pins 112 may have variable lengths or heights. In embodiments where the one or more pins 112 are releasable from the tray 110, the user may select certain length pins 112 to press into certain recess or holes in the tray 110 to create a framework for arranging one or more stacks of beads 130 on the tray 110 into the three dimensional object. For example, the user may engage a single bead 130 with a standard length pin 112 of the tray 110 while also stacking two or more beads 130 on a longer length pin 112. In certain embodiments, the one or more pins 112 have the same length while the one or more recesses or holes allow the user to vary how much each of the one or more pins 112 is placed in the recess or hole creating the framework for arranging one or more stacks of beads 130 on the tray 110 into the three dimensional object. To facilitate the user selecting the correct depth of insertion for the one or more pins 112, the pins 112 and or recesses or holes may include one or more index marks along the length of the one or more pins 112 or along the length of the recess or hole. In this way, variable portions of the pins 112 extend above and below the tray 112.

In some embodiments, a three dimensional building system may also be provided that can allow for the layering of multiple two dimensional arrays of beads 130 to create a three dimensional object. Such a system can be configured to align multiple layers of beads in the absence of the plurality of pins 112. For example, a three dimensional printer may be used to orient and place multiple layers of beads 130.

FIGS. 19-21 illustrate a portion 150 of the toy system 100 from FIG. 1. FIG. 19 is a side view of the section showing the plurality of beads 130 attached to the pins 112 of the tray 110 with the template 120 therebetween. FIG. 20 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line 20-20 in FIG. 19 through one of the plurality of beads 130 showing the bead 130 engaged with the pin 112 of the tray 110. FIG. 21 is a top view of the section of FIG. 19 in which internal surfaces and features of the plurality of beads 130 and pins 112 are shown by dashed lines taken along line 21-21 as depicted in FIG. 19.

FIGS. 19-20 show the dimples 142 in contact with the template 120. The dimples 142 can be configured to break the surface tension between the bottom surface of the plurality of beads 130 and the tray 110 or the template 120. This can reduce adherence by the plurality of beads 130 to the tray 110 or the template 120. The dimples can be configured to allow for draining of liquid from the tray 110 or template 120 below the plurality of beads 130 by providing an increased area over which the liquid can flow. This can prevent pooling of liquid in areas below the plurality of beads 130, which can prevent drying of the beads after liquid is applied. In some embodiments, the receptacle 132 and the pins 112 can be configured so that when the plurality of beads 130 are engaged to the pins 112, the bottom surface of the plurality of beads 130 does not engage the surface of the template 120 or the tray 110, in the presence or absence of dimples 142.

FIGS. 19-21 show edges 134, 136, 138. As discussed above with reference to FIGS. 14-18, the edges 134, 136, 138 can be configured to allow for the flow of liquid between adjacent beads in the plurality of beads 130 and between the plurality of beads 130 and the tray 110 or template 120.

The cross-sectional view depicted in FIG. 20 illustrates one of the plurality of pins 112 engaging the receptacle 132 of one of the plurality of beads 130. As described with reference to FIGS. 9-11 and 14-18, the plurality of pins 112 and the receptacles 132 can be configured to removable engage.

FIG. 19-21 show the plurality of pins 112 and the plurality of apertures 122 below the plurality of beads 130. The apertures 122 of the template 120 can be configured so that the template 120 cannot be removed from the tray 110 without removing the plurality of beads 130. For example, each of the plurality of apertures 122 can have a diameter less than a diameter of each of the plurality of beads 130. Alternatively, each of the plurality of apertures 122 can have a shape different than the peripheral shape of each of the plurality of beads 130 so that at least part of the peripheral shape of each of the plurality of beads 130 extends beyond each of the plurality of apertures 122. Thus, the template 120 can be configured to allow for the removal of the plurality of beads 130 by the removal of the template 120. This allows for removal of the dry plurality of beads 130 after liquid has been applied and the beads 130 have adhered or fused together by lifting the template 120 away from the tray 110. Of course, the wetted plurality of beads 130 are preferably left to dry for a portion of time, such as twenty minutes, one hour, or overnight, before attempting to remove the plurality of beads 130 from the tray 110.

Alternatively, the toy system 100 may be configured so that the user can remove the plurality of beads 130 by pulling on one or more of the plurality of beads 130 in a direction away from the tray 120 or by applying a force to the surface of the plurality of beads 130 facing the template 120. The system 100 may further include a tool configured to fit between one or more beads of the plurality of beads 130 or under the plurality of beads 130. The tool can be configured to fit between the plurality of beads 130 and the tray 110 or template 120 and to allow for removal by applying a force to the tool.

FIG. 22 illustrates an exploded view of a toy system 200. The toy system 200 includes a lower tray 210, an upper tray 260, a template 220, and a plurality of beads 230.

The plurality of beads 230 can include any of features described herein with respect to the plurality of beads 130. During use, each of the plurality of beads 230 is arranged to create a desired design on the lower tray 210 by engaging the bead with a pin 212 at a desired location on the lower tray 210. Liquid is then applied to the design of beads 230. Once dry, the beads 230 of the design are fused together. In certain embodiments, the template 220 is disposed beneath the lower tray 210. In certain embodiments, the template 220 provides a guide or design for the user when locating beads 230 on the pins 212 to achieve the desired design. The template 220 can include colored regions to guide placement of correspondingly colored beads 230.

The lower tray 210 can include any of the features described herein with respect to the tray 110. The lower tray 210 includes the plurality of pins 212 extending from an upper surface of the lower tray 210. The upper tray 260 includes a plurality of apertures 222. The plurality of pins 212 is configured to receive the plurality of apertures 222 and then engage with the plurality of beads 230. The upper tray 260 can removably receive the plurality of pins 212. The beads 230 can removably engage the plurality of pins 212, both when the upper tray 260 is engaged to the plurality of pins 212 and in the absence of the upper tray 260.

In some embodiments, the lower tray 210 comprises a rigid material. For example, the lower tray 210 can comprise a rigid polymer. In some embodiments, the lower tray 210 can comprise one or more of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, or any other suitable material.

As described herein with respect to the plurality of beads 130, each of the plurality of beads 230 can be sized and shaped to achieve contact with one or more adjacent contacting beads 230 so as to adhere to the one or more adjacent beads 230 once dry after liquid is applied, allowing for the formation of a fused array of beads 230. The fused array of beads 230 adhere between surfaces of adjacent contacting beads 230. The upper tray 260 can be configured to facilitate removal of the plurality of beads 230 from the tray 210. For example, when removing the upper tray 260 when the upper tray 260 is positioned between the lower tray 210 and the plurality of beads 230, a top surface of the upper tray 260 contacts a bottom surface of the plurality of beads 230. As the upper tray 260 is pulled away from the top surface of the lower tray 210, the upper tray 260 lifts the plurality of beads 230 so that they slide towards a distal end of the plurality of pins 212 and eventually disengage from the pins 212.

The upper tray 260 and the plurality of beads 230 can be configured so that minimal or no adhesion occurs between the plurality of beads 230 and the upper tray 260, allowing for the removal of the fused array of beads 230 from the upper tray 260 after the upper tray 260 is removed from the lower tray 210.

In some embodiments, the upper tray 260 comprises a rigid material. For example, the upper tray 260 can comprise a rigid polymer. In some embodiments, the upper tray 260 can comprise one or more of polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate, or any other suitable material.

The template 220 preferably includes a design 229. The design 229 can be configured to guide the placement of the plurality of beads 230 onto one or more of the plurality of pins 212 so that a fixed array of beads 230 can be formed in accordance with the design 229. The template 220 can be configured such that lines and other elements of the design 229 can be aligned with the plurality of pins 212 so that the plurality of beads 230 can engage the plurality of pins 212 in accordance with the design 229. Preferably, the upper tray 260 and lower tray 210 are transparent or semi-transparent to facilitate visibility of the design 229 prior to placement of the plurality of beads 230. In some embodiments, the entirety of the upper tray 260 and lower tray 210 consist of a transparent or semi-transparent material. Alternatively, sections of the upper tray 260 and lower tray 210 are transparent or semi-transparent, such as for example, the sections of the upper tray 260 and lower tray 210 that are positioned over the design 229 when the template 220 is aligned with the lower tray 210 and upper tray 260.

When a liquid, for example water, is administered to the plurality of beads 230, the plurality of beads 230 will fuse or adhere together once dry to form an array of beads representative of the design 229. The design 229 may include color to indicate which color of bead 230 should be engaged with a specific pin 212. In some embodiments, the template 220 includes a design on both the front and back surfaces of the template 220. In some embodiments, the template 220 will be configured to allow for writing, drawing, or printing so that a design can be customized by the user. For example, a software application can be used to create a design, such as design 229. The design can be printed on to the template 220. The software application may be internet based and can allow for the sharing of designs 229. It should be recognized that the design 229 need not be present in order for an array of beads to be formed.

FIG. 23 illustrates an exploded view of the toy system 200 of FIG. 22 showing bottom surfaces of the upper tray 260, lower tray 210, and template 220. The lower tray 210 includes tabs 211 extending inward from an edge 217 of the lower tray 210. The tabs 211 are configured to create a slot between a top surface of each tab 211 and a bottom surface of the lower tray 210. The slots between each tab 211 and bottom surface of the lower tray 210 can receive the template 220. The tabs 211 can be configured to prevent movement of the template 220 in at least one direction, for example distally from the bottom surface of the lower tray 210, when the template 220 is positioned between the top surface of each tab 211 and the bottom surface of the lower tray 210.

FIGS. 24-25 illustrate the lower tray 210 from FIG. 22. FIG. 24 illustrates a top view of the lower tray 210. FIG. 25 illustrates a side view of the tray 210 taken along lines 25-25 in FIG. 24. The lower tray 210 can include any of the features described herein with respect to the tray 110. The lower tray 210 includes the plurality of pins 212. In certain embodiments, the tray 220 includes a plurality of protrusions 215 positioned at a plurality of locations around the edge 217 of the lower tray 210.

The plurality of pins 212 can be disposed on the lower tray 210 in a 2D array of rows and columns. In certain embodiments, the pins 212 have a variable length so that the beads 230 can be arranged in three dimensions. The plurality of pins 212 can also be spaced so that one or more side surfaces of a bead in the plurality of beads 230, as depicted in FIG. 22, contact the side surfaces of adjacent beads 230 when the beads 230 are anchored to the plurality of pins 212.

In some embodiments, the plurality of pins 212 can be configured so that the tops of the plurality of pins 212 are located at different heights such that the differences in height of adjacent pins 212 is small enough to allow for the side surfaces of each bead 230 to contact the side surfaces of one or more adjacent beads 230.

The protrusions 215 can be spaced to engage the upper tray 260. The protrusions 215 can extend from the upper surface of the lower tray 210 such that a top surface of the protrusions 215 has a height greater than the top surface of the edge 217 of the lower tray 210. When engaged with the upper tray 260, the protrusions 215 can inhibit rotary movement of the upper tray 260 relative to the lower tray 210 as well as provide guidance for the user to correctly align the upper tray 260 on the top surface of the lower tray 210 during engagement. The protrusions 215 may also extend laterally from the adjacent sections of the edge 217 and can function as handles to facilitate movement of the lower tray 210 by the user. The protrusions 215 may also act as visual reference points for alignment of the template 220 with the lower tray 210. In some embodiments, the protrusions 215 can include a textured surface to facilitate gripping of the protrusions 215.

FIGS. 26-27 illustrate an embodiment of the upper tray 260 from FIG. 22. FIG. 26 shows a top view of the upper tray 260. FIG. 27 shows a side view of the upper tray 260. In certain embodiments, the upper tray 260 includes the plurality of apertures 222. In certain embodiments, the upper tray 260 includes a plurality of tabs 262 and one or more lip members 264. The upper tray 260 can be made of a transparent or semi-transparent material to facilitate visibility of a design on the template 220.

The plurality of apertures 222 is arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins 212 when the upper tray 260 is disposed on the lower tray 210. The tabs 262 of the upper tray 260 do not include apertures and can be configured to extend beyond the edge 217 of the lower tray 210. The tabs 262 can function as handles for a user adjusting or removing the upper tray 260. The tabs 262 can include a textured surface to facilitate gripping of the tabs 262.

The lip members 264 can be configured to extend from the bottom surface of the upper tray 260 and to fit over sections of the edge 217 of the lower tray 210 adjacent to the protrusions 218 when engaged with the lower tray 210. When engaged with the lower tray 210, the lip members 264 can inhibit rotary movement of the upper tray 260 relative to the lower tray 210 as well as provide guidance for the user to correctly align the upper tray 260 on the top surface of the lower tray 210 during engagement.

FIG. 28 shows a top view of the template 220 of FIG. 22. The template 220 can include a plurality of tabs 226. The tabs 226 can be configured to be positioned in alignment with the tabs 262 of the upper tray 260. In this manner, the tabs 226 can provide a visual reference for alignment of the template 220 with the lower tray 210 and the upper tray 260. In some embodiments, the template 220 can include a design, such as the design 229. (See FIG. 22). In some embodiments, the template 220 can include a design on only one side. In some embodiments, the template 200 can include a design on both sides.

FIG. 29 illustrates an embodiment of a three dimensional building system 300. The three dimensional building system 300 is configured to facilitate building of a three dimensional bead structure. As used herein, a three dimensional bead structure refers to any bead structure having multiple tiers or layers of beads fixed together to form a design. The three dimensional building system includes a base 301, a lower tray 310, and a hinge 308. Certain embodiments of the three dimensional building system 300 can also include one or more of a handle 305, one or more lever arms 306A and 306B, an upper tray 360, a hinge 308, a stack tray 315, a stack plate 312, a plurality of beads 330, a stack base 318, one or more sidewalls 322A and 322B, a front wall 333 and a rear wall 328. During use, the three dimensional building system 300 is configured to be transitioned from a building configuration, as shown in FIG. 29, and a stacking configuration, shown for example, in FIG. 39.

In the building configuration shown in FIG. 29, each of the plurality of beads 330 is arranged to create a desired layer on the lower tray 310 by engaging the bead 330 with a pin 312 at a desired location on the lower tray 310. A layer may have one or more beads 330. In certain embodiments, liquid is then applied to the layer of the plurality of beads 330. Following the application of liquid to the layer of the plurality of beads 330, the layer of the plurality of beads 330 can be moved and flipped upside down to the stack tray 315 by advancing the three dimensional building system from the building configuration to the stacking configuration as shown, for example, in FIG. 41. In transitioning from the building configuration to the stacking configuration, the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310, upper tray 360, and the layer of the plurality of beads 330 engaged with the pins 312 of the lower tray 310 are rotated about an axis 325 of the hinge 308. The lower tray 310 is coupled to the hinge 308. A first lateral side and second lateral side of the lower tray 310 are coupled to interior side walls of the lever arms 306A and 306B, respectively. A proximal end of each lever arm 306A and 306B are coupled to the hinge 308. The handle 305 is coupled to a distal portion of each of the lever arms 306A and 306B. Consequently, rotation of the handle 305 about an axis 325 of the hinge 308 can cause the rotation of the lever arms 306A and 306B, the lower tray 310, upper tray 360, and the layer of the plurality of beads 330 engaged with the pins 312 of the lower tray 310 about the axis 325 from the building configuration to the stacking configuration.

In the stacking configuration, the layer of the plurality of beads 330 is positioned upside down above a top surface of the stack tray 315. Consequently, the lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 are positioned above the top surface of the stack pate 315 and generally parallel thereto. When in the stacked position, a disengagement mechanism can be activated to disassociate the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from the pins 312 of the lower tray 310 such that the layer of the plurality of beads 330 is deposited onto the top surface of the stack tray 315.

After the layer of the plurality of beads 330 is deposited onto the stack tray 315, the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310, and upper tray 360 can be rotated about the axis 325 of the hinge 308 to the building position wherein a second layer of the plurality of beads can be arranged to create a desired design on the lower tray 310 by engaging the second layer of the plurality of beads with the pins 312 at a desired location on the lower tray 310. The handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310, upper tray 360 and the layer of the second plurality of beads can be flipped upside down while being rotated about the axis 325 of the hinge 308 to deposit the second plurality of beads on top of the plurality of beads 330 in the same manner in which the plurality of beads 330 was deposited on the stack tray 315.

The process of creating a desired layer in the building position and depositing the beads making up the desired layer on top of the stack tray 315 or beads previously places on the stack tray 315 can be repeated to create a three dimensional bead design having multiple layers of beads. To facilitate stacking two or more layers of beads on top of one another, the stack tray 315 can be configured to move vertically by way of the stack base 318, which is configured to slide within the toy system 300. The stack base 318 can be repositioned to move the stack tray 315 towards the bottom of the three dimensional building system 300 as additional layers of beads are deposited onto the stack tray 315 in order to allow space for the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, upper tray 360, lower tray 310, and any beads positioned on the pins 312 of the lower tray 360 to transition to the stacking configuration.

The upper tray 360 can include any of the features described herein with respect to the upper tray 260. In certain embodiments, the upper tray 360 is disposed between the lower tray 310 and the layer of the plurality of beads 330. In certain embodiments, the upper tray 360 is sized, shaped, and otherwise configured to facilitate removal of beads 330 from the lower tray 310. Of course the three dimensional building system 300 need not include the upper tray 360 and can be used by placing the beads 330 directly on the lower tray 310.

The lower tray 310 can include any of features described herein with respect to the lower tray 210. The lower tray 310 includes the plurality of pins 312 extending from an upper surface of the lower tray 310. The upper tray 360 includes a plurality of apertures 322 (shown in FIG. 31). The plurality of pins 312 is configured to receive the plurality of apertures 322 and then engage with the plurality of beads 330. The upper tray 360 can removably receive the plurality of pins 312. The beads 330 can removably engage the plurality of pins 312, both when the upper tray 360 is engaged to the plurality of pins 312 and in the absence of the upper tray 360.

The plurality of beads 330 can include any of the features described with respect to the plurality of beads 230. Each of the plurality of beads can be sized and shaped to achieve contact with one or more adjacent contacting beads 330 so as to adhere to the one or more adjacent beads 330 once dry after liquid is applied, allowing for the formation of a fused array of beads 330. The fused array of beads 330 adhere between surfaces of adjacent contacting beads 330. The adjacent contacting beads 330 can be positioned laterally to or vertically on top of or below one another. The top surface of each bead in the layer of the plurality of beads 330 can adhere to a bottom surface of a bead in another layer of beads positioned on top of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 once dry after liquid is applied. Further, the bottom surface of each bead in the layer of the plurality of beads 330 can adhere to the top surface of a bead in another layer of beads positioned beneath the layer of the plurality of beads 330 once dry after liquid is applied.

The upper tray 360 can be configured to facilitate removal of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from the lower tray 310. When positioned between the lower tray 310 and the layer of the plurality of beads 330, a top surface of the upper tray 360 is positioned below the bottom surface of each bead in the layer of the plurality of beads 330. When upside down in the stacking configuration, one or both of the lower tray 310 and the upper tray 360 can be moved away from the other of the lower tray 310 and the upper tray 360. Separation of the lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 can cause the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to disengage from the plurality of pins 312 and be deposited on the stack tray 315. In one embodiment, the upper tray can be configured to move away from the lower tray 310 when upside down in the stacking configuration. As the upper tray 360 advances away from the top surface of the lower tray 310 the top surface of the upper tray 360 causes the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to slide towards a distal end of the plurality of pins 312 and eventually disengage from the pins 312. Disengagement of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from the plurality of pins 312 while in the stacking configuration causes the layer of the plurality of beads to be deposited onto the stack tray 315. In another embodiment, the lower tray 310 is configured to move away from the upper tray 360 when upside down in the stacking configuration. As the lower tray 310 advances away from the upper tray 360, the plurality of pins 312 advance through the plurality of apertures 322 while the top surface of the upper tray 360 prevents the beads in the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from moving with the pins 312, which causes the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to disengage from the plurality of pins 312. Disengagement of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from the plurality of pins 312 while in the stacking configuration causes the layer of the plurality of beads to be deposited onto the stack tray 315.

The upper tray 360 and the plurality of beads 330 can be configured so that minimal or no adhesion occurs between the plurality of beads 330 and the upper tray 360, allowing the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to be deposited on the stack tray 315 when disengaged from the plurality of pins 312 in the stacking configuration.

The stack tray 315 is positioned on top of a top surface of the stack plate 312. In some embodiments, the stack tray 315 is removably secured to the stack plate 312. The stack plate 312 is positioned on top the stack base 318. One or more tabs 319A and 319B extend laterally from the stack base 318. The tabs 319A and 319B extend partially out of apertures 321A and 321B, respectively, to allow for manipulation by a user. The tabs 319A and 319B can be manipulated to reposition the stack base 318 to a plurality of discrete positioned defined by a plurality of notches 323 spaced vertically along the sides of the apertures 321A and 321B. Protrusions (not shown) extending out of the stack base 318 can engage the notches 323 to releasably secure the stack base 318, and consequently, the stack plate 312 and stack tray 315 if positioned thereon, at a plurality of vertical positions within the building system 300. The notches 323 can be spaced to correspond to the height of one of the plurality of beads 330, such that movement of the stack plate 312 from a first notch to an adjacent lower notch provides a space for an additional layer of beads to be placed on top of a top layer of a bead arrangement previously positioned on the stack tray 315.

The rear wall 328 can be positioned between the side walls 322A and 322B and proximal to a proximal end of the stack tray 315. The back plate 328 can be removable to allow for access to the stack tray 315 after the stack tray 315 has descended towards the base 301.

A top edge portion of the front plate 333 and a bottom edge portion of the lower tray 310 can be shaped and positioned to form an upper slot 335A between the top edge of the front plate 333 and the bottom edge portion of the lower tray 310. The front plate 333 further includes a lower slot 335B. The upper slot 335A and lower slot 335B can be connected by a path extending through the interior of the building device 300. The upper slot 335A can be configured to receive one or more templates. Each template may include a design thereon. The lower tray 310, upper tray 360, and pins 312 can be transparent or semi-transparent to allow for visibility of the template(s) from above the building system 300. In some embodiments, the template(s) can be removed from below the bottom plate 310 through the upper slot 335A. In some embodiments, the template(s) can be removed by advancing the template(s) along the path between the upper slot 335A and the lower slot 335B and out of the lower slot 335B. In some embodiments, a series of templates can be connected such that a first template can be inserted into the upper slot 335A and positioned below the lower tray 310 and subsequently advanced along the path towards the lower slot 335B such that subsequent connected templates can be positioned below the lower tray 310 without requiring removal and replacement of the first template through the upper slot 335A. The template(s) can provide guides or designs for the user when locating beads 330 on the pins 312 to achieve a desired three dimensional bead design. The template(s) can include colored regions to guide placement of correspondingly colored beads 330. In some embodiments, a plurality of related templates can each include a guide or design corresponding to a single bead layer of a three dimensional bead design. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of related templates can include an indicator, such as a number, to indicate an order in which a plurality of bead layers should be built in the building position and stacked in the stacking configuration in order to form the three dimensional bead design. In some embodiments, the plurality of templates can be connected in the order in which the plurality of bead layers are intended to be built.

FIG. 30 illustrates a rear perspective view of the three dimensional building system 300 from FIG. 29. FIG. 30 shows the tab 319B and aperture 321B.

FIG. 31 illustrates an exploded view of a section of the building system 300 from FIG. 29. FIG. 31 shows the lower tray 310, the upper tray 360, lever arms 306A and 306B, ejection plates 382A and 382B, and springs 384A and 384B separate from the other elements of the building system 300. FIG. 31 also shows separate components of the hinge 308: a hinge joint 308A and a hinge pin 308B.

The hinge pin 308B is received inside the hinge joint 308A, forming the hinge 308, and each end of the hinge pin 308B engages one of the lever arms 306A and 306B. The upper tray 360 includes a plurality of protrusions 376 that extend downward beyond the bottom surface of the upper tray 360. The lower tray 310 includes a plurality of openings 377, each opening configured to receive one of the protrusions 376. The protrusions 376 are configured to slide within the openings 377. Each of the ejection plates 382A and 382B include one or more sockets 378, each socket configured to receive one of the protrusions 376. The protrusions 376 and sockets 378 can be sized and shaped such that the protrusions 376 are secured or fastened within the sockets 378. The springs 384A and 384B can be configured to engage sections 379A and 379B of the lower tray 310 and recesses 383A and 383B of the ejection plates 382A and 382B.

FIG. 31 shows the plurality of apertures 322 of the upper tray 360. The apertures 322 of the upper tray 360 can be configured so that the upper tray 360 and lower tray 310 cannot be separated without causing the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to advance along the plurality of pins 312 away from the lower tray 310. If the upper tray 360 is separated from the lower tray 310 beyond a particular distance, the layer of the plurality of beads 330 is entirely removed from the plurality of pins 312. For example, each of the plurality of apertures 322 can have a diameter less than a diameter of each of the plurality of beads 330. Alternatively, each of the plurality of apertures 322 can have a shape different than the peripheral shape of each of the plurality of beads 330 so that at least part of the peripheral shape of each of the plurality of beads 330 extends beyond each of the plurality of apertures 322. Thus, the building system 300 can be configured to allow for the removal of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 by the separation of the upper tray 360 from the lower tray 310. This allows for removal of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 after advancing the upper tray 360 away from the lower tray 310, advancing the lower tray 310 away from the upper tray, or advancing both the lower tray 310 and the upper tray 360 away from each other.

The disengagement mechanism can include the ejection plates 382A and 382B, springs 384A and 384B, openings 379A and 379B, and protrusions 376. When the building system 300 is in the building position, the upper tray 360 is positioned such that the bottom surface of the upper tray 360 engages the top surface of the lower tray 310. Upon initiation of the disengagement mechanism, a force can be applied to the ejection plates 382A and 382B, causing the ejection plates 382A and 382B to advance towards the bottom surface of the lower tray 310. Advancement of the ejection plates 382A and 382B towards the bottom surface of the lower tray 310 can cause advancement of the protrusions 376 positioned within the sockets 378 within the openings 377 in the same direction as the advancement of the ejection plates 382A and 382B. Advancement of the ejection plates 382A and 382B also compresses the springs 384A and 384B between the ejection plates 382A and 382B and the sections 379A and 379B of the lower tray 310. Advancement of the protrusions 376 within the openings 377 can cause the upper tray 360 to translate distally away from the top surface of the lower tray 310. In some embodiments, advancement of the protrusions 376 within the openings 377 causes the upper tray 360 to translate distally away from the top surface of the lower tray 310 when another section of the building system 300 or other obstruction restricts movement of the lower tray 310 in the direction of the advancement of the protrusions 376. For example, one or more portions of the side walls 322A and 322B can prevent advancement of the lower tray 310 towards the base 301 when in the stacking configuration. After the upper tray 310 separates a particular distance from the lower tray 360, any of the beads 330 positioned on the pins 312 will disengage from the pins 312. After disengagement, the force applied to the ejection plates 382A and 382B can be removed, allowing the compressed springs 384A and 384B to exert a force on the ejection plates 382A and 382B to cause the ejection plates 382A and 382B, and consequently the upper tray 310, to return to their initial position.

In some embodiments, the building system 300 is configured to initiate the disengagement mechanism when the building system 300 is transitioned to the stacking configuration such that the layer of the plurality of beads 330 disengages from the pins 312 when positioned above the stack tray 315 so that the layer of the plurality of beads 330 is received on the stack tray 315 or on top of any beads already positioned thereon. In some embodiments, the handle 305 is shaped such that when transitioned to the stacking configuration, portions of the handle 305 contact the ejection plates 382A and 382B and cause the ejection plates 382A and 382B to translate towards the bottom surface of the lower tray 310. In some embodiments, one or more of the side walls 322A and 322B are positioned such that when transitioned to the stacking configuration, one or more portions of the top surface of the lower tray 310 will contact one or more portions of the side walls 322A and 322B to restrict movement of the lower tray 310 towards the base 301. The building system 300 can be configured to allow for the ejection plates 382A and 382B, the protrusions 376, and upper tray 360 to translate towards the base 301 while in the stacking configuration while the movement of the lower tray 310 is restricted, allowing the upper tray 360 to translate distally away from the top surface of the lower tray 310. Translation of the upper tray 360 distally away from the top surface of the lower tray 310 can cause disengagement of the beads 330 from the pins 312 of the lower tray 310.

FIG. 32 illustrates an exploded view of a section of the building system 300 of FIG. 29. FIG. 32 shows the base 301, the side walls 322A and 322B, the rear wall 328, the stack tray 315, the stack plate 312, the stack base 318, and a plurality of rubber pads 393. The rubber pads 393 are configured to attach to a bottom surface of the base 301 so as to contact any surface on which the building system 300 is placed. Extending upward from the base 301 is a plurality of pillars 392. A plurality of rings 394 extend laterally from a surface of the stack base 318. Each ring 394 is configured to receive one of the pillars 392 and to slide along the pillars 392. In use, a vertical position of the stack base 318 within the building system 300, and consequently a vertical position of the stack plate 312 and a vertical position of the stack tray 315, can be adjusted by movement of the rings 394 along the pillars 392.

FIG. 33 shows a cross sectional view of the three dimensional building system 300 taken along line 33-33 as depicted in FIG. 30. The building system 300 includes channel 374 forming a path for the template to pass through the building system 300. The channel 374 may include an inner surface 372 and an outer surface 370 forming a U-shaped channel The inner surface 372 can be configured to fit within an interior section of the outer surface 370. The outer surface 370 can extend around the inner surface 372. The outer surface 370 and inner surface 372 can be generally sized and spaced such that the channel 374 is formed between the interior surface of the outer surface 370 and the inner surface 372. Outer surface 370 and inner surface 372 can be positioned within the building system 300 such that the arcuate path 374 opens at a first end at the slot 335A and opens at a second end at the slot 335B. The slot 335A, arcuate path 374, and slot 335B can be configured to receive a template having one or more designs thereon. Each design can include visual guide for placement of beads 330 on the pins 312 of the lower tray 310 for formation of a layer of a three dimensional design. In use, a template may be inserted into the slot 335A. The template can advance along the arcuate path 374. After advancing along the arcuate path 374, the template can then exit out of the slot 335B.

FIGS. 34, 35, 36, 37, and 38 illustrate a top view, a side view, a bottom view, a rear view, and a front view, respectively, of the three dimensional building tool 300 of FIG. 29.

FIGS. 39-45 illustrate an example of a process for creating a three dimensional bead design using the three dimensional building tool 300 of FIG. 29.

FIG. 39 shows initial steps of the process for creating a three dimensional bead design. In the first step, the handle 305, along with the lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 are rotated about the axis 325 of the hinge 308 to the stacking configuration. FIG. 39 shows the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310, and upper tray 360 in the stacking configuration. An arrow 405 shows a direction of rotation followed by the handle 305, the lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 from the building configuration to the stacking configuration. The dashed structure 415 is shown for illustrative purposes only, and demonstrates the position of the handle 305, the lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 partway through rotation from the building configuration to the stacking configuration.

Following rotation of the handle 305 to the stacking configuration, a plurality of templates 320 can be inserted into the upper slot 335A. An arrow 410 demonstrates a direction of insertion of the plurality of templates into the upper slot 335A. The plurality of templates 320 includes individual templates 320A, 320B, and 320C. Each of the individual templates 320A, 320B, and 320C can include a visual representation, such as a picture or design, providing instructions to a user for positioning the plurality of beads 330 on the pins 312 of the lower tray 310. Each of the individual templates 320A, 320B, and 320C can include instructions for a positioning of the plurality of beads 330 for formation of a single layer of beads for incorporation into a three dimensional bead structure having multiple layers of beads. The outer surface 370 can consist of a transparent or semi-transparent section or window positioned below the lower tray 310 when the lower tray 310 is in the building position. The transparent or semi-transparent window of the template slider 370 can allow for an individual template positioned within the arcuate path 374 to be visible from above the three dimensional building system 300 when the lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 are in the stacking configuration. In some embodiments, both the lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 are transparent or semi-transparent such that an individual template positioned in the arcuate path 374 below the lower tray 310 when the lower tray 310 is in the building configuration is visible through the transparent or semi-transparent window of the outer surface 370, the lower tray 310, and the upper tray 360.

FIG. 40 illustrates additional steps in the example process of creating a three dimensional bead design following the steps shown in FIG. 39. After the plurality of templates 320 is inserted into the slot 335A and an individual template is positioned below the window of the slider top 370 as discussed with respect to FIG. 39, the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 are rotated about the axis 325 of the hinge 308 from the stacking configuration to the building configuration. The direction of rotation of the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 from the stacking configuration to the building configuration is illustrated by the arrow 420. In FIG. 40, the template 320A is positioned below the window of the slider top 370. When in the building configuration, the plurality of beads 330 can be positioned on the pins 312 of the lower tray 310 to form a layer. After the layer of the plurality of beads 330 are positioned on the pins 312 of the lower tray 310, a liquid, such as water, can be applied to at least some of the layer of the plurality of beads 330. In some embodiments, it may be preferable to allow the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to at least partially adhere before proceeding with further steps in the process of creating a three dimensional bead design.

FIG. 41 illustrates additional steps in the example process of creating a three dimensional bead design following the steps shown in FIGS. 39 and 40. After liquid is applied to at least some of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 positioned on the pins 312 of the lower tray 310 as discussed with respect to FIG. 40. The handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310, upper tray 360, and the plurality of beads positioned on the pins 312 of the lower tray 310 are rotated about the axis 325 of the hinge 308 from the building configuration to the stacking configuration. Transition of the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 to the stacking configuration can cause activation of the disengagement mechanism. Activation of the disengagement mechanism can cause the layer of the plurality of beads 330 positioned on the pins 312 to disengage from the pins 312. In some embodiments, the disengagement mechanism causes the lower tray 310 to advance away from the upper tray 360 in order to cause the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to disengage from the pins 312. In some embodiments, the disengagement mechanism causes the upper tray 360 to advance away from the lower tray 310 in order to cause the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to disengage from the pins 312. For example, in some embodiments, one or more portions of the sidewalls 322A and 322B are positioned to contact one or more portions of the top surface of the lower tray 310 when in the stacking configuration. The one or more portions of the sidewalls 322A and 322B can restrict advancement of the lower tray 310 towards the base 301 while permitting advancement of the ejection plates 382A and 382B, protrusions 376, and upper tray 360 towards the base 301. In some embodiments, the disengagement mechanism causes the lower tray 310 and the upper tray 360 to advance away from each other in order to cause the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to disengage from the pins 312. Disengagement of the layer of the plurality of beads 330 from the pins 312 when the lower tray 310 and upper tray 360 are in the stacking configuration can cause the layer of the plurality of beads 330 to be deposited on the stack tray 315. After the layer of the plurality of beads 330 are deposited onto the stack tray 315, the plurality of templates 320 can be advanced into arcuate path 374 such that a next individual template of the plurality of templates is positioned below the transparent or semi-transparent window of the outer surface 370. The direction of advancement of the plurality of templates 320 is shown by the arrow 425. As shown in FIG. 41, the plurality of templates has been advanced from the position shown in FIG. 40 such that the template 320B, shown in dashed lines for illustrative purposes, is positioned below the window of the slider top 370.

FIG. 42 illustrates additional steps in the example process of creating a three dimensional bead design following the steps described with respect to FIGS. 39-41. After the plurality of templates 320 is advanced, the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310, and upper tray 360 are rotated about the axis 325 of the hinge 308 from the stacking configuration to the building configuration as shown as shown by arrow 430. FIG. 42 shows the layer of the plurality of beads 330 deposited on the stack tray 315. After the handle 305, lever arms 306A and 306B, lower tray 310, and upper tray 360 are in the building configuration, the steps described with respect to FIGS. 40-41 can be repeated to deposit additional layers of beads on top of the beads positioned on the stack tray 315. The stack base 318 can be lowered after each layer of beads are deposited on the stack tray 315 to allow room for a subsequent layer of beads to be deposited on top of the beads already deposited on the stack tray 315.

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view of the three dimensional building system 300 as shown in FIG. 42. FIG. 43 shows the plurality of templates 320 extending throughout the arcuate path 374 and out of the bottom slot 335B. Arrows 430A and 430B show the direction of travel of the plurality of templates 320 as the plurality of templates 320 is advanced along the arcuate path 374 so that trailing individual templates can be positioned below the transparent or semi-transparent window of the outer surface 370.

FIG. 44 shows additional steps in the example process of creating a three dimensional bead design following the steps shown in FIGS. 39-43. FIG. 44 shows multiple layers of beads 330 stacked on the stack tray 315 to form a three dimensional bead structure. FIG. 44 also shows the stack base 318 positioned at a bottom position within the three dimensional building system 300 such that the tab 319A is positioned at the bottom of the aperture 321. After all of the bead layers of the three dimensional bead structure have been disposed on the stack tray 315, the stack tray 315 can be brought to its top position by manipulation of the tabs 319A and 319B of the stack base 318. The arrows 435A and 435B indicate the direction of movement of the stack tray 315 from its bottom position to its top position. After the stack plate is positioned at its top position, the stack tray 315 and optionally, the stack plate 312 can be removed from the stack base 318 and placed apart from the three dimensional building system 300. Liquid can be applied to the plurality of beads 330 of the three dimensional bead structure while the three dimensional bead structure is deposited on the stack tray 315, either while the stack tray 315 is positioned within the three dimensional building system 300 or after the stack tray 315 has been removed from the three dimensional building system 300. In some embodiments, liquid is applied to beads 330 between the deposits of layers onto the stack tray 315. Liquid can be applied to the three dimensional bead structure in the form of a spray, from a nozzle for example. Alternatively, liquid can be applied using a brush or by submerging the bead structure into a liquid. A tool including a brush, spray nozzle, and/or other mechanism for applying liquid to the beads 330 may be supplied.

In some embodiments, the three dimensional building system 300 can be used while the three dimensional bead structure is drying on the stack tray 315, for example by stacking one or more layers of beads on the stack base 318.

FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view of the three dimensional building system 300 as shown in FIG. 44. Arrow 440 shows the direction of travel of the bottom stack tray 315 from its bottom position to its top position.

Any of the beads described herein can be used with the three dimensional building system 300. In some embodiments, a receptacle for receiving one of the plurality of pins 312 may extend through the bead 330. After completion of a three dimensional bead structure, the receptacle extending through the bead 330 may be used to receive an attachment to the bead design, such as, for example, a bag tag. In some embodiments, one or more support beads can be used with the three dimensional building system 300. A support bead can be a bead that is not intended to be a part of the final bead structure, but can be incorporated into the layers of beads for structural support. For example, if a second layer of beads forming part of a bead structure is intended to be positioned on top of a first layer of beads forming part of the bead structure, but includes one or more beads extending beyond the perimeter of the first layer of beads, one or more support beads can be placed so that after deposit on the stack tray 315, the support beads will be positioned beneath those beads of the second layer of beads extending beyond the perimeter of the first layer of beads intended for use in the bead structure. In some embodiments, the support beads will be formed of a material that resist adhesion to the beads intended to be part of the bead structure. In other embodiments, a tool can be used to separate support beads that have adhered to beads intended to be part of the design. The tool may be the same tool configured to administer liquid to the plurality of beads 330 of the three dimensional bead structure. For example, the tool may include a pick or claw for separating support beads from the beads intended form part of the three dimensional bead structure. In some embodiments, a support bead structure is provided that includes a plurality of connected support beads for use over larger areas of the stack tray 315.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features of the development as applied to various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the devices illustrated may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the development. As will be recognized, the present development may be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features may be used or practiced separately from others. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

The foregoing description details certain embodiments of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein. It will be appreciated, however, that no matter how detailed the foregoing appears in text, the systems, devices, and methods may be practiced in many ways. As is also stated above, it should be noted that the use of particular terminology when describing certain features or aspects of the invention should not be taken to imply that the terminology is being re-defined herein to be restricted to including any specific characteristics of the features or aspects of the technology with which that terminology is associated.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the described technology. Such modifications and changes are intended to fall within the scope of the embodiments. It will also be appreciated by those of skill in the art that parts included in one embodiment are interchangeable with other embodiments; one or more parts from a depicted embodiment may be included with other depicted embodiments in any combination. For example, any of the various components described herein and/or depicted in the Figures may be combined, interchanged or excluded from other embodiments.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art may translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

The term “comprising” as used herein is synonymous with “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

The above description discloses several methods of manufacture and materials of the present development. This development is susceptible to modifications in the methods and materials, as well as alterations in the fabrication methods and equipment. Such modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art from a consideration of this disclosure or practice of the development disclosed herein. Consequently, it is not intended that this development be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, but that it cover all modifications and alternatives coming within the true scope and spirit of the development as embodied in the attached claims.

While the above detailed description has shown, described, and pointed out novel features of the improvements as applied to various embodiments, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form and details of the device or process illustrated may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit of the invention. As will be recognized, the present invention may be embodied within a form that does not provide all of the features and benefits set forth herein, as some features may be used or practiced separately from others. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. A toy system for creating and fixing a plurality of polygon shaped beads together to form a design, the system comprising:

a lower tray having a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the lower tray, the plurality of pins being sized and shaped to receive the plurality of polygon shaped beads; and

an upper tray having a plurality of apertures arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins when the upper tray is disposed on the lower tray, the upper tray being at least partially transparent.

2. The toy system of claim 1, further comprising the plurality of polygon shaped beads, each bead having a receptacle configured to receive one of the plurality of pins so as to anchor to the lower tray and form the design, each bead being sized and shaped to achieve sufficient contact with an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead when dry after a liquid is applied to the design.

3. The toy system of claim 1, further comprising a template having one or more visual indications thereon, the one or more visual indications being configured to indicate one or more positions on the lower tray for placement of one or more of the plurality of polygon shaped beads.

4. The toy system of claim 3, wherein the lower tray comprises one or more slots, each slot configured to receive a section of the template and prevent rotation of the template in at least one direction.

5. The toy system of claim 1, wherein the lower tray is at least partially transparent.

6. The toy system of claim 1, wherein the upper tray comprises one or more tabs configured to extend beyond an edge of the lower tray.

7. The toy system of claim 1, wherein a diameter of each of the plurality of apertures is less than a maximum width of each of the plurality of beads.

8. A toy system for creating and fixing a plurality of polygon shaped beads together to form a design, the system comprising:

a lower tray having a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the lower tray;

an upper tray having a plurality of apertures arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins when the upper tray is disposed on the lower tray and below the plurality of polygon shaped beads; and

a template having one or more visual indications thereon, the one or more visual indications configured to indicate one or more positions on the lower tray for placement of one or more of the plurality of polygon shaped beads.

9. The toy system of claim 8, further comprising the plurality of polygon shaped beads, each bead having a receptacle configured to receive one of the plurality of pins so as to anchor to the lower tray and form the design, each bead being sized and shaped to achieve sufficient contact with an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead when dry after a liquid is applied to the design.

10. A toy system for creating and fixing a plurality of polygon shaped beads together to form a tiered bead design, the system comprising:

a base; and

a tray coupled to the base so as to rotate more than 90 degrees relative to the base about an axis between a first position and a second position, the tray being configured to receive a plurality of polygon shaped beads when in the first position and facilitate ejection of the plurality of polygon shaped beads when in the second position.

11. The toy system of claim 10, wherein the tray comprises a plurality of pins disposed on a surface of the tray, each of the plurality of pins being sized and shaped to receive a bead of the plurality of polygon shaped beads.

12. The toy system of claim 11, further comprising a second tray having a plurality of apertures arranged so as to register with the plurality of pins when the second tray is disposed on the tray.

13. The toy system of claim 10, further comprising a second tray configured to be positioned between the tray and the plurality of polygon shaped beads when the tray is in the first position.

14. The toy system of claim 13, wherein one of the tray and the second tray is configured to move relative to the other of the tray and the second tray when the tray is in the second position to facilitate ejection of the plurality of polygon shaped beads from the tray.

15. The toy system of claim 13, wherein the tray and the second tray are both configured to move relative to each other when the tray is in the second position.

16. The toy system of claim 10, further comprising a handle coupled to the tray.

17. The toy system of claim 12, wherein the second tray is configured to rotate in unison with the tray about the axis.

18. The toys system of claim 10, wherein the tray is upside down when in the second position in comparison to when in the first position.

19. The toy system of claim 10, further comprising the plurality of polygon shaped beads, the plurality of polygon shaped beads being sized and shaped to contact an adjacent bead so as to adhere to the adjacent bead when dry after a liquid is applied to the design.

20. The toy system of claim 11, further comprising the plurality of polygon shaped beads, each bead having a receptacle configured to receive one of the plurality of pins so as to anchor to the tray and form the design.