Resilient Interlocking Joint (e.g., Snap Joint) Patents (Class 446/120)
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Patent number: 11819773Abstract: A toy figurine comprising a figurine body with an identity selected from a set of identities and a removable plush costume covering the figurine body and obscuring the identity of the figurine body. The plush costume includes one or more separately removable portions and removing one or more of the separately removable portions reveals the identity of the figurine body.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2022Date of Patent: November 21, 2023Assignee: MATTEL, INC.Inventors: Kelley Lindberg, Isaac Luk, Kenna O'Brien
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Patent number: 11633674Abstract: A toy construction element is disclosed having a body with at least one projection extending therefrom and a plurality of complementary-shaped recesses formed therein. The recesses extend along at least two different axes and are configured for receiving a corresponding projection from like elements so as to allow like construction elements to be interconnected in three dimensions. The projections and/or recesses may be formed with snap-fit interlocking features whereby the element is configured for interlocking engagement with like elements. The snap-fit interlocking features can include complementary locking formations formed on each projection and each recess. The formations are configured to pass over each other as the projection of one element is received in the recess of another element when like elements are assembled, and the recess is at least in part defined by a resilient component that flexes to resist passage of the formations during assembly and disassembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2017Date of Patent: April 25, 2023Assignee: TRIMITI MOEBIUS DESIGN PTY LTDInventor: Umesh Vinayak Nevgi
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Patent number: 10058090Abstract: The present disclosure includes an acoustic coupler for combining at least two independent reed game calls. The acoustic coupler has a body including a first length bounded by a first end and a second end. The body includes an acoustic chamber therein and at least one aperture extending into the acoustic chamber. The first end and said second end of the body are in fluid communication with the acoustic chamber. The first reed game call is affixed to the first end of the body. An insert in the first reed game call includes an air passage which is in fluid communication with the acoustic chamber. A second reed game call is affixed to the second end of the body. The insert in the second reed game call includes an air passage which is in fluid communication with the acoustic chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2017Date of Patent: August 28, 2018Inventor: Stephen Fayette Billy
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Patent number: 9101851Abstract: A toy connector system comprising a plurality of connectors 102, elongated connectable members 104, and planar connectable members 105. The connectable members 104, 105 may come in a variety of shapes and configurations. The connectable members 104, 105 comprise an orifice 404, 1510 into which the connector 102 is fitted so that the connectable members 104, 105 may be reversibly connected to each other in a variety of different configurations via the connectors 102 to build a variety of structures. The toy connector system may further comprise end caps 106, wheels 110, bars 114, and other accessory parts.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2011Date of Patent: August 11, 2015Inventor: Maryam Habibi
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Patent number: 9044689Abstract: A case for a portable electronic device includes a cavity and one or more studded surfaces. The cavity can receive at least a portion of the portable electronic device such that the portable electronic device is removable from the cavity through an opening in the cavity. The studded surfaces can be coupled with one or more building elements.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2013Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Assignee: Pono Paani, LLCInventors: Hunter S. Thompson, Jaime L Thompson, James W. Thompson, Frazier Newlin
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Publication number: 20150056886Abstract: A construction kit including a plurality of construction assembly pieces each comprising a resilient half rod. The half-rod comprises a rod divided in half longitudinally and having a set of teeth. The set of teeth comprises teeth disposed at intervals along a longitudinal length of said half-rod located in alternate planes to either side of a longitudinal mid-plane of the rod. The teeth are configured to provide a snap-fit interlock with a corresponding set of teeth on the half-rod of an edge of a second corresponding construction assembly piece to define a full, preferably circular cross-section, rod where the two assembly pieces interlock. Each construction assembly pieces defines a flexible plastic rectangle partly open along one edge to allow the rectangle to be flexed further open, for modelling structures having fluid shapes.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2014Publication date: February 26, 2015Inventor: Euan Robert Lind
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Patent number: 8961259Abstract: A toy building block set includes multiple polyhedron blocks of different lengths removably attachable together. Each block includes at least a top and four side walls. At least one connector extends from the top and includes opposing interior and exterior surfaces. A recessed area is provided at the bottom of each block. Engagement projections or depressions are provided on the connector and the remaining engagement structure are provided in the recessed area of each block where they might fully or partially engage or not engage with structures on the connector. The mechanical interference engagements and resulting engagement forces provided between any two of the blocks are less than three and even less than two times the number of engagements and resulting engagement forces provided by a mated pair of the smallest polyhedron blocks of the set.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2013Date of Patent: February 24, 2015Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Albert P. Maggiore, Edward C. Teter
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Publication number: 20140220854Abstract: An adaptor brick includes a main body having a first coupling structure and a second coupling structure. The first coupling structure is used for coupling with a bottom portion of a first brick or a second brick while the second coupling structure is used for coupling with a top portion of the first brick or the second brick.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2013Publication date: August 7, 2014Inventor: Yang-Chih LEE
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Patent number: 8651914Abstract: A construction toy is disclosed which includes a set of construction components. The construction toy includes components that may be assembled by connecting male and female snap-lock connectors. A female snap-lock connector is disclosed that includes a deflectable channel opening into a wider cavity. A male snap-lock connector is disclosed with a cylindrical head, a neck, and seat. The construction components are connected by pressing a male head through a female deflectable channel and into the wider cavity allowing the deflectable channel to return to its non-deflected position surrounding the male connector neck and secure the construction component in position.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2006Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Inventor: Costas Sisamos
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Patent number: 8607541Abstract: A chain includes a plurality of links, each link has a first end having a knob and an opposite second end having a cavity, wherein the cavity is shaped and dimensioned to receive the knob of a mating link. The links are joined together knob-to-cavity to form a chain wherein the links can both axially and transversely rotate. In an embodiment, each link has a neck which receives a collar. In another embodiment, a wire is passed through a tunnel in all the links.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2013Date of Patent: December 17, 2013Inventor: Victor Vito Cavuoti
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Publication number: 20130178130Abstract: Interlocking building block, paving unit, tile or toy element, one part of which is a piece offering at least one planar locking mechanism, and the other part of which is an element offering at least one spatial locking mechanism. The element is characterized by the piece providing the planar locking mechanism being a three-clawed piece (21) built around an equilateral triangle (1) with protruding arms (22) and grooves (23) corresponding to their circumference arranged in a circular segment (23). The protruding claws (22) are rotated on a plane around a center of rotation (30). These align with the grooves (23) of another three-clawed piece (21) to offer a bayonet type locking mechanism, where the center point of the circular segment (12) is identical to the center of planar rotation (30).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2011Publication date: July 11, 2013Inventor: Adám Bálint
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Patent number: 8403723Abstract: A construction kit of modular components including rigid and flexible foam bars with endcaps designed to be joined together by snap-fit connections to define three-dimensional, adult-sized playing fields which float in aquatic settings such as swimming pools. The connectivity of the modular components is characterized by manual assembly, a high resistance to separation during active play by teams of adults participating in vigorous athletic activities, and tool-assisted disassembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2009Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Inventor: Gregory Lee Haner
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Patent number: 8388401Abstract: A plurality of structural members configured to be coupled together to form an array. Each structural member includes a top portion having a plurality of top extending members spaced apart from one another and a bottom portion having a plurality of bottom extending members spaced apart from one another. The top extending members and bottom extending members can be vertically offset from each other. The top portion of each structural member can be coupled to the bottom portion of another structural member, and each top extending member of a structural member can be coupled to a bottom extending member of another structural member.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2010Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Inventor: Samuel Lanahan
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Patent number: 8382548Abstract: A toy building block set includes multiple polyhedron blocks of different lengths removably attachable together. Each block includes at least a top and four side walls. At least one connector extends from the top and includes opposing interior and exterior surfaces. A recessed area is provided at the bottom of each block. Engagement projections or depressions are provided on the connector and the remaining engagement structure are provided in the recessed area of each block where they might fully or partially engage or not engage with structures on the connector. The mechanical interference engagements and resulting engagement forces provided between any two of the blocks are less than three and even less than two times the number of engagements and resulting engagement forces provided by a mated pair of the smallest polyhedron blocks of the set.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2009Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Albert P. Maggiore, Edward C. Teter
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Publication number: 20130017753Abstract: A toy building set comprising a number of toy building elements and an overload-safe linear actuator having a centre axis and with two spindle parts comprising a first spindle part with an internal thread arranged concentrically to the centre axis, and a second spindle part with an external thread screwed into the internal thread on the first spindle part, and wherein the thread on the one spindle is at least twice as long as the thread on the second spindle part. One of the spindle parts being provided with a slot extending through the spindle part longitudinally of the thread configured on the spindle part and essentially along the entire thread, it is accomplished that it is easy to adjust the length of the actuator by pulling or pressing the two spindle parts together or away from each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 11, 2010Publication date: January 17, 2013Applicant: LEGO A/SInventor: Frank Hohrmann Pedersen
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Patent number: 8353131Abstract: Loq·kit is a mass-produced system of interchangeable building components for assembling single or multi-family houses. The building components are of three varieties: structural frame, in-fill, or snap-cladding components. Except for bolted structural frame connections, all connections between parts are snap-lock, and may be released. With snap-lock interfaces and a modular dimensional relationship between components, they can be reconfigured in near endless variety. The components all share a common dimensionality that is derived from a regulating grid. The grid utilizes an alternating sequence of two modules—a module A, and a smaller module B. The A,B,A,B rhythm of gridlines is used to regulate component connection locations in three dimensions. The alternating-sequence grid works by establishing a standard connection width, module B, for making connections between components. Each possible connection width is spaced from another by a common module A.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2007Date of Patent: January 15, 2013Inventor: Patrick A. Freet
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Patent number: 8221182Abstract: A three-dimensional electro-mechanical system for making mechanical structures using snap-together parts or building blocks that easily demonstrate the principles required in making three-dimensional electronic circuits incorporated in the mechanical structures. A reusable electronic module that contains batteries or other power sources and has means for attaching to other electronic modules to power these three-dimensional circuits and prevent and warn the user of excessive current.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2009Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Inventors: Arthur Seymour, Brian P. Johnson, Alexander B. Matz, Marc C. Lehner, Gerald J. Ceuhin
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Patent number: 8210892Abstract: A transformative floor mat system that is interactive as a toy and a mat that is safe, fun and creative. In one form, the floor mat has tiles with interlocking structure around the edges of each tile to prove for a secured large surface area. The floor mat also has play pieces that can be removed from within each tiles so that each tile can be connected to one another to form a play figure. The floor mat system could also be configured to form other three-dimensional structures and environments, such as castles, forests, and beaches.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2010Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Parallax Group International, Inc.Inventors: Bruce Thrush, Peter Szucs
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Patent number: 8191329Abstract: Disclosed herein are connectors for panels. In one embodiment a panel connector comprises, a connector comprising a rib-hinging geometry, wherein the rib-hinging geometry comprises living hinges, and wherein the rib-hinging geometry is capable of expanding in area. In another embodiment, a panel assembly is disclosed. The panel assembly comprises, a connector comprising a rib-hinging geometry, wherein the rib-hinging geometry comprises living hinges, a socket comprising an internal geometry, wherein the connector can be assembled to the internal geometry, and wherein the rib-hinging geometry is capable of expanding in area.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2011Date of Patent: June 5, 2012Assignee: Sabic Innovative Plastics IP B.V.Inventors: Chinniah Thiagarajan, Frans Adriaansen, Bhawesh Kumar
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Patent number: 8187050Abstract: A toy building element has sidewalls that include grooves and tongues by which the toy building element can be interconnected with a like building element. Each groove is formed between a pair of outwardly extending flexible ridges. The tongue does not extend outward beyond the virtual plane of the sidewall that includes the tongue. The virtual plane is defined as a plane that passes through a midpoint of a line that connects a central point on an outer surface of the sidewall that includes the at least one tongue to a central point on an outer surface of the sidewall of the other building element that includes the at least one pair of ridges and is perpendicular to a line that passes through the central points of said interconnected building elements when said building elements are interconnected in a centered configuration.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2009Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Inventor: Soren Christian Sorensen
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Patent number: 8172636Abstract: A toy-holding apparatus for securely holding at least two playground toys, such as hoops or wands, in a predetermined relationship to one another includes a first hoop grip adapted to releasably grip a first playground hoop and a second hoop grip adapted to releasably grip a second playground hoop. A connecting element is disposed between the first and second hoop grips. A friction-inducing insert is disposed on at least one of the hoop grips to minimize unintended movement between the hoop grips and the hoops.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2006Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Pull-Buoy, Inc.Inventor: Kurt K. Carbonero
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Patent number: 8157608Abstract: One piece, injection-moldable, functionally polyhedral construction modules. The construction modules are thin-walled, cored out versions of a polyhedron. Each construction module comprises one polyhedron wall portion that is interiorly tangent to each face of at least one set of identical faces of a superimposed polyhedron template. Each polyhedron wall portion forms a complex with its tangent face of its superimposed polyhedron template that is the mirror image of at least half of such complexes. Each polyhedron wall portion is visible in both directions along a predetermined axis. Each polyhedron wall portion comprises an asymmetric aligning means that may include one or more snap-fit connectors. Every polyhedron wall portion is part of a single piece of material. Accordingly, these construction modules may be injection molded as single pieces of material, and, when they are aligned face-to-face, they exhibit the constructive properties of their polyhedron templates.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2010Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Inventor: Jonathan Walker Stapleton
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Patent number: 8074419Abstract: Non-masonry building block components, including a standard hollow-bodied block component with horizontal and vertical locking capabilities which removes the need for bonding material such as glue, mortar or other adhesives. Modified dovetails on the upper and lower surface of the building components prevent vertical movement while resistance locks on each end of the block prevent horizontal movement. Typically, use of the non-masonry building components would allow for constructing permanent or temporary structures having vertical and horizontal channels in which to allow plumbing or electrical conduit. The incorporation of materials, such as sand or similar substance, would form a bullet-resistant barrier for use in military operations. Additionally, structures formed from the block components could easily be assembled or disassembled on site without the need for skilled labor, specialized tools, demolition and clean up.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2008Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Inventors: David L. Humphress, Steven N. Flinchum
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Patent number: 8074418Abstract: Disclosed herein are connectors for panels. In one embodiment a panel connector comprises, a connector comprising a rib-hinging geometry, wherein the rib-hinging geometry comprises living hinges, and wherein the rib-hinging geometry is capable of expanding in area. In another embodiment, a panel assembly is disclosed. The panel assembly comprises, a connector comprising a rib-hinging geometry, wherein the rib-hinging geometry comprises living hinges, a socket comprising an internal geometry, wherein the connector can be assembled to the internal geometry, and wherein the rib-hinging geometry is capable of expanding in area.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2006Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignee: Sabic Innovations Plastics IP B.V.Inventors: Chinniah Thiagarajan, Frans Adriaansen, Bhawesh Kumar
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Patent number: 8051626Abstract: The beam has end terminals which can be connected to one another, such that one of the terminals is provided with front projections for guiding in vertical displacement of the other terminal, which has guides with a form which mates with the said projections, one of the terminals also having projecting lower arms to support the other terminal after it has been put into position, thus determining a single area of contact in order to permit disconnection of the supported terminal during dismantling, by turning on the said area of contact.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2006Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: Sistemas Technicos de Encofrados, S.A.Inventor: José Luis Ubiñana Felix
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Patent number: 8007338Abstract: A construction system includes a plurality of construction elements having body member and a plurality of coupling members, each of said coupling members having an exterior portion and an interior locking device of hermaphroditic type. The interior locking device includes protrusions and a receiving block. A first coupling member belonging to one construction element can interlock with a second coupling member belonging to another element, so that the protrusions of the first coupling member resiliently deflect away from each other and subsequently retract, and settle, into provided recesses in the receiving block of the second element. Concurrently, the protrusions of the second coupling member settle into corresponding recesses in the receiving block of the first coupling member. Applications of the construction system in toy construction sets, construction puzzles and board games are provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2008Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Inventor: Saso Stevkovski
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Patent number: 7980912Abstract: A toy construction set includes jaw pieces having jaws that interconnect with the body portions of other jaw pieces as well as interconnecting with other jaws. Ratchet wheel components are embodied in some jaw pieces and connector pieces, and are engageable by the jaws. The connector pieces include pins that interconnect with sockets in the body portions of the jaw pieces. A swivel piece has pivoting arms that each include a socket to interconnect with the connector pieces. A wheel assembly has an axle piece with sockets that also connect to the pins. Also, struts that comprise a series of space apart ratchet wheels, or regular tubular octagonal polyhedrons, have sockets in their ends to engage connector pieces.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2005Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Inventor: Philip L. Shoptaugh
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Patent number: 7980918Abstract: A playhouse is provided that includes an outer structure and a roof supported by and positioned atop the outer structure. The outer structure and the roof cooperate to at least partially define a first playspace. In one embodiment, the playhouse can further include a fence that at least partially defines a second playspace. The first and second playspaces can communicate with one another such that a person can travel between the first and second playspaces.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2009Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: The Step2 Company, LLCInventor: Zhanna Prilutsky
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Publication number: 20110028064Abstract: Toy block (1) comprising a sidewall (2) with an inner surface and an outer surface (3) intended for abutment against a surface of a corresponding toy block, said sidewall (2) comprising a through hole (4) for receipt of a catch portion (7) of a connecting element (6) and a recess (5) in said outer surface (3) adjacent the through hole (4), and said toy block (1) comprising a catch for engaging and holding the catch portion (7) of a connecting element (6), said catch being situated in the interior of the toy block (1) in a distance from said inner surface, and at least one of said recess (5) and said through hole (4) is non-circular, toy block connecting element (6) for such a toy block (1) and toy block element (11) for producing such a toy block (1).Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2009Publication date: February 3, 2011Inventors: Mads Sandahl Christensen, Lars Christensen
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Publication number: 20110028063Abstract: A toy-building unit. The building unit includes a six armed structure having a ball portion at a distal end of each arm. The arms are arranged about a central body formed by their intersections and each arm extends from the central body perpendicularly to adjacent arms. A socket is formed by each set of three adjacent arms. The ball portion of a first building unit is inserted into the socket of a second building unit to removeably, rotatably, and pivotally engage the two building units.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2010Publication date: February 3, 2011Applicant: Crayola LLCInventors: Christopher R. Colangelo, James Allen, David A. Cziraky
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Publication number: 20100285717Abstract: An intelligence enhancing toy includes a largest unit, a set of middle units and a smallest unit. The largest unit and each middle unit have two prongs parallel to each other. An engagement hole is formed on each prong of the largest unit and each middle unit, and an engagement protrusion is formed on each prong of each middle unit and the smallest unit. Therefore, these engagement protrusions and engagement holes allow the largest unit, middle units and smallest unit to be joined together; in addition, these engagement protrusions and engagement holes form several pivotal points, which allow the toy of the present invention to be bent and arranged into several configurations and also allow it to be folded together into a flat, compact condition, which allows it to be stored away and carried around easily.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2009Publication date: November 11, 2010Inventor: Chien-Ming CHEN
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Publication number: 20100248584Abstract: The present invention is directed to a construction system which has individual construction elements or components which can be connected to each other by at least a ball-to-socket joint or a socket-to-socket joint. A basic construction element has a body with a ball at one end and a socket at the other end, or balls at both ends, or sockets at both ends. Other construction elements are contemplated which can have more than or less than two connectors for a single element.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2010Publication date: September 30, 2010Inventor: Jeff Pinsker
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Patent number: 7798884Abstract: A toy construction system includes a block component and a connector component. The connector component has a connector-to-block coupling section for releasable coupling to the block component and a connector-to-connector coupling section for releasable coupling to a substantially similar connecting component. The connector-to-block coupling section defines a connector block contacting surface for contacting the block component. The coupling aperture defines a peripheral edge retaining section made out of a substantially resiliently deformable material.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Inventor: Nathalie Barcelo
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Patent number: 7789727Abstract: A novelty device and the associated method of fabricating component parts of the novelty device. The novelty device has at least one protrusion that is made from an elastomeric material. The protrusion has a distal end. A hole is disposed through the protrusion proximate its distal end. A secondary object is provided. The secondary object is made from a rigid material. The secondary object defines an interior space. Sounding elements are disposed within the interior space of at least some of the secondary objects. The sounding elements are free moving and produce noise within said secondary objects when said novelty device is manually shaken.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2008Date of Patent: September 7, 2010Inventors: Mark J. Chernick, Webb T. Nelson
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Patent number: 7785170Abstract: A novelty device and the associated method of fabricating component parts of the novelty device. The novelty device has at least one protrusion that is made from an elastomeric gel. The protrusion has a distal end. A hole is disposed through the protrusion proximate its distal end. A secondary object is provided. The secondary object is made from a rigid material. The secondary object defines an interior space. The distal end of the elastomeric gel protrusion extends through the secondary object and into the interior space of the secondary object. The secondary object is comprised of an assembly of interconnecting parts. The parts of the secondary object are assembled around the elastomeric gel protrusion in the area of the hole. Once assembled, the secondary object engages the hole in the elastomeric gel protrusion. As a result, the secondary object becomes mechanically interconnected to the end of the elastomeric gel protrusion.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2007Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Inventors: Mark J. Chernick, Webb T. Nelson
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Publication number: 20100203797Abstract: A constructional building element comprising a top face, a plurality of side walls extending downwardly from the top face, a plurality of coupling studs which are arranged on the top face, a plurality of cavities arranged in a two-dimensional periodical pattern at the bottom of the building element to receive coupling studs in frictional engagement and at least one container with opaque external surface and opening to accomadate favorite objects which cannot be easily joined. The object container with opaque external surface can be frictionally releasable from the building element. The object container with opaque external surface accomodates a surface area with coupling studs/cavities to frictionally engage with favorite objects. The building element may accommodate multiple containers with opaque external surfaces. The object container with opaque external surface may have tray to accommodate favorite objects.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2009Publication date: August 12, 2010Inventor: Ajmal M. M. Beg
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Publication number: 20100203796Abstract: A building element for a constructional building comprising a top face, a plurality of side walls extending downwardly from the top face, a plurality of coupling studs which are arranged on the top face, a plurality of cavities arranged in a two-dimensional periodical pattern between the side walls to receive the coupling studs in frictional engagement and at least one color indicator which is part of the building element and indicates the color of at least one surface area of the building element. The color indicator is a symbol or a model of a real object. The color indicator also represents the shade of the color of the building element. The color indicator is a three dimensional space positioned within the the external surface of the said building element or is a three dimensional protruding structure positioned on the external surface of the building element or is printed on the external surface of the building element.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2009Publication date: August 12, 2010Inventor: Ajmal M. M. Beg
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Publication number: 20100178839Abstract: Magic Blocks are a construction blocks game that is both fun and educational. It consists of four distinct individual pieces. The four pieces that make up this game are identified as Rectangle Block (FIG. 1), Square Block, (FIG. 5), Rectangle Connector (FIG. 9), and Square Connector (FIG. 10). The Rectangle Block and the Square Block are made up of panels which contain both male locks, and female locks. The Rectangle Connector and the Square Connector contain only female locks. The game works by folding the Rectangle and the Square Blocks, respectively, along their scored edges then stacking the folded blocks on top of one another with the male locks going into the female locks of the block placed below it. Objects can be built horizontally as well as vertically.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2009Publication date: July 15, 2010Applicant: Usama M. Khattah OmarInventor: Usama M. Khattah Omar
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Patent number: 7666054Abstract: An offset matrix adapter for integrating existing components of K'nex construction toys with existing components of Lego-style brick systems, notwithstanding that the spacing matrices of the systems are incompatible. Adapter bricks or bases are provided, having adapter sockets with the same spacing matrix as the studs of the Lego-style bricks. Special K'nex offset matrix adapters are provided, consisting of a pair of spaced-apart mounting stems for reception in a pair of spaced-apart adapter sockets. An offset rod is rigidly supported at the tops of the mounting stems but is offset laterally from the axes of the mounting stems by a distance which is preferably about one-third of the spacing between adapter sockets. By orienting a pair of matrix adapters with the rods offset alternatively inward or outward, the spacing differences between K'nex and Lego-style systems can be reduced to insignificance, allowing the two systems to be easily integrated.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2006Date of Patent: February 23, 2010Assignee: K'NEX Limited Partnership GroupInventors: Joel I. Glickman, Matthias F. W. Doepner
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Patent number: 7648407Abstract: A toy building element has sidewalls that include grooves and tongues by which the toy building element can be interconnected with a like building element. Each groove is formed between a pair of outwardly extending flexible ridges. In some embodiments, the tongue does not extend outward beyond the virtual plane of the sidewall that includes the tongue. In other embodiments in which the tongue extends outward beyond the tongue-sidewall virtual plane, the distance by which the tongue extends beyond the tongue-sidewall virtual plane is less than (a) the distance by which each ridge of the pair of ridges extends beyond the ridge-sidewall virtual plane, (b) the distance by each ridge of the pair of ridges extends outward to the ridge-sidewall virtual plane and/or (c) the distance by which each side of the tongue extends outward to the tongue-sidewall virtual plane.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2005Date of Patent: January 19, 2010Inventor: Soren Christian Sorensen
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Publication number: 20100009788Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of toys and/or promotional articles and/or ornamental articles and more specifically to a promotional toy formed by segments of a ball and connecting elements which form a functional ball. Assembly of a complete ball using only bare hands, once all of the necessary segments are collected, is facilitated by the structure. It can be used for publicity of consumer products and has connecting means for easy assembly, which when completed allows it to be used as a ball to be kicked. The inventive ball includes a connecting system and connecting element affixed to the segment of the ball and an accessory connecting element; the fixed connecting element consisting of a projection tangential cut on the edge of the segment of the ball and on the edge having another longer projection parallel to the edge, a space being left between the peripheral edge of the segment and the inside face of the parallel projection.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2006Publication date: January 14, 2010Inventors: Monika Hasbach Lugo, Jonatan Aguilar Velazquez, Jose Antonio Salas Perez
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Patent number: 7625261Abstract: A toy building set with toy building elements with coupling means for releasably interconnecting the toy building elements, which further comprises outer and inner toy building elements with a longitudinal direction. The inner toy building elements are receivable in the outer toy building elements, and the inner toy building elements are slideable in the outer toy building elements along their parallel longitudinal directions. The outer toy building elements can be interconnected in their longitudinal directions to form a composite outer toy building element, and the inner toy building elements can be interconnected in their longitudinal directions to form a composite inner toy building element that can be slideably received in the composite outer toy building element.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2006Date of Patent: December 1, 2009Assignee: Lego A/SInventor: Henrik Andersen
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Publication number: 20090233516Abstract: This invention relates to a set of pieces-connectors to assembly toys in shapes of smooth or grooved cylindrical tubes, smooth or teeth semicircles and the combination of the same. Smooth or toothed tubular semicircles joined to a smooth or grooved cylindrical tube by one of its ends to the middle external portion; smooth or toothed semicircles joined to other smooth or toothed semicircles by its exterior middle portion; cylindrical tubes with a fixed “ring-butt” joined in its middle portion; smooth or toothed semicircles, joined at its two ends by a smooth or grooved cylindrical tube, in its cavity direction, leaving the cavity at sight; cylindrical tubes, joined by their ends forming wheel; smooth or toothed semicircles, joined among them at their middle external portions of their curves perpendicular one to the other; cylindrical tubes folded 90 degrees and reduced in its ends respecting their circumferences.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2006Publication date: September 17, 2009Inventor: Ernesto Monge Rodriguez
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Publication number: 20090203288Abstract: A construction toy and education set for assembling two and three dimensional structures comprising a plurality of rod elements having C-shaped gripping clip at both ends at least one three-dimensional sphere-like connecting elements formed of a torus connecting element into which one or more torus segments are attached.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2008Publication date: August 13, 2009Inventors: Rabah Aggar, Smail Aggar
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Publication number: 20090191784Abstract: A construction system includes a plurality of construction elements having body member and a plurality of coupling members, each of said coupling members having an exterior portion and an interior locking device of hermaphroditic type. The interior locking device includes protrusions and a receiving block. A first coupling member belonging to one construction element can interlock with a second coupling member belonging to another element, so that the protrusions of the first coupling member resiliently deflect away from each other and subsequently retract, and settle, into provided recesses in the receiving block of the second element. Concurrently, the protrusions of the second coupling member settle into corresponding recesses in the receiving block of the first coupling member. Applications of the construction system in toy construction sets, construction puzzles and board games are provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2008Publication date: July 30, 2009Inventor: Saso Stevkovski
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Publication number: 20090149110Abstract: The present invention is an improved construction toy set having a number of different structural elements which are configured for snapping together. These elements having key connectors configured for mating together, where integral locking indentations in the key connectors are configured for locking onto locking ridges provided on the adjacent structural element.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2008Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventor: DANE SCARBOROUGH
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Publication number: 20090137184Abstract: What is disclosed is a versatile interlocking crossbar device and system for coupling modular components of toy assemblages, educational models, hobby constructions, component attachments, or the like together using one or more connectors, configured with a set of male connector parts and a set of female connector parts, configured to enable the selective attachment of such parts. The disclosed system is exemplified in this application as a toy vehicle and a ball and demonstrates how the parts and interlocking crossbar device interrelate to one another in a plurality of ways to create varying embodiments. The unique interrelationships spoken of are, for the most part, capable of creation because similar sized openings and recesses are indexed within each body member such that the pieces and interlocking crossbar conform thereto.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2008Publication date: May 28, 2009Inventors: David J. Schreff, Julian Lindsay, Donna Lindsay
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Publication number: 20090093182Abstract: A toy structure building apparatus includes a plurality of connector members attached to a plurality of structural members. Each connector member has a pin portion and a retention element located on an external surface of the pin portion. The apparatus further includes a plurality of connectors, each connector having an aperture for receiving the pin portion of a connector member and a detent member disposed within the aperture. The detent member is adapted to lockingly engage the retention element and includes a flexible elongated locking element extending in a direction substantially parallel to the central axis of the pin portion when the detent member is lockingly engaged to the retention element. The pin portion is selectively insertable into the aperture to couple and uncouple the structural members to each other to build a toy structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2007Publication date: April 9, 2009Applicant: CRANIUM, INC.Inventors: Joel Jacobs, Randall Klimpert, Edwin Thorne, III
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Patent number: 7497051Abstract: It is composed of a framework made up entirely of pieces of recycled plastic that basically comprises bearers (1-2), distributed in several sectors along the whole length of the greenhouse and made up of sections (3-4) that are fitted to one another by means of linear connectors (5) which engage on lugs (12-16) and which are in turn joined by means of cross connectors (8) that engage on lugs (17) provided on horizontal sections (6) making up horizontal cross members (7) which brace the framework forming the roof, side walls, front wall and rear wall of the greenhouse. It includes inner spacer clips (23) and intermediate spacer clips (30) that engage on rods (27-27?-27?) securing inner plastic laminar layers (28-28?-28?), between which air chambers are formed that act as thermal insulation for the greenhouse.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2003Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: Gosei Nakagawa SAInventor: Hiroshi Kawanaka
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Publication number: 20080268741Abstract: The present invention is directed to a construction system which has individual construction elements or components which can be connected to each other by at least a ball-to-socket joint or a socket-to-socket joint. A basic construction element has a body with a ball at one end and a socket at the other end, or balls at both ends, or sockets at both ends. Other construction elements are contemplated which can have more than or less than two connectors for a single element.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 8, 2008Publication date: October 30, 2008Inventor: Jeff Pinsker