Abstract
The invention relates to a coupling element comprising a body with an axial axis arrangeable in an opening of an object, which body is provided along its outer periphery with at least one outward extending locking cam, wherein the body is provided with at least one resiliently movable tongue extending therefrom, to which tongue the locking cam is connected, wherein the at least one tongue is movable inward by a force being exerted thereon.
Claims
1. A coupling element comprising a body with an axial axis arrangeable in an opening of an object, the body having two axial ends, wherein the body is provided along an outer periphery thereof with at least one outward extending locking cam, wherein the body is provided with a resiliently movable tongue extending therefrom, wherein the locking cam is connected to said tongue, wherein said tongue is movable inward by a force being exerted thereon, wherein said tongue comprises an engaging surface, wherein each axial end of said body is positioned at a distance relative to said engaging surface of said tongue as seen in an axial direction, wherein said tongue is connected to one axial end of the two axial ends of the body, wherein the one axial end is the axial end positioned at a greatest distance relative to the engaging surface as seen in the axial direction.
2. The coupling element as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupling element comprises at least one rotation limiting element co-acting with the object.
3. The coupling element as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupling element comprises at least one engaging element, for engagement by a tool for rotating the coupling element.
4. The coupling element as claimed in claim 3, wherein the engaging element of the coupling element comprises an engaging opening for receiving an engaging part of a tool.
5. The coupling element as claimed in claim 4, wherein the engaging opening has a shape adapted to the engaging part of the tool, so that the engaging part of the tool can engage in the engaging opening of the coupling element for rotating the coupling element.
6. The coupling element as claimed in claim 5, wherein: the engaging opening of the coupling element is a continuous opening and wherein the engaging opening of the coupling element is bounded by a sleeve which forms part of the coupling element and which sleeve comprises inwardly oriented longitudinal thickened portions, wherein mutually adjacent longitudinal thickened portions bound respective longitudinal recesses.
7. The coupling element as claimed in claim 5, wherein: the engaging opening of the coupling element is a continuous opening and wherein the engaging opening of the coupling element is bounded by a sleeve which forms part of the coupling element and which sleeve comprises inwardly oriented longitudinal thickened portions, wherein mutually adjacent longitudinal thickened portions bound respective longitudinal recesses.
8. The coupling element as claimed in claim 7, further comprising a stop for limiting inward movement of the tongue, the stop arranged on the tongue on a side thereof facing toward the body of the coupling element or arranged on the outer periphery of the body of the coupling element in an area which is in register with the tongue.
9. The coupling element as claimed in claim 8, wherein the coupling element is provided with at least one insertion limiting element co-acting with the object.
10. The coupling element as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupling element comprises at least two tongues which extend from different axial ends of the two axial ends of the body in an opposite axial direction in order to provide a coupling between two objects.
11. The coupling element as claimed in claim 10, wherein the coupling element is flexibly bendable between the two axial ends of the body.
12. The coupling element as claimed in claim 11, wherein the engaging element of the coupling element comprises an engaging opening for receiving an engaging part of a tool.
13. The coupling element as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a stop for limiting inward movement of the tongue, the stop arranged on the tongue on a side thereof facing toward the body of the coupling element or arranged on the outer periphery of the body of the coupling element in an area which is in register with the tongue.
14. The coupling element as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupling element is provided with at least one insertion limiting element co-acting with the object.
15. The coupling element as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupling element comprises at least one rotation limiting element co-acting with the object.
16. The coupling element as claimed in claim 15, wherein the coupling element comprises at least one engaging element, for engagement by a tool for rotating the coupling element.
17. The coupling element as claimed in claim 16, wherein the coupling element comprises at least two tongues which extend from different axial end of the two axial ends of the body in an opposite axial direction in order to provide a coupling between two objects.
Description
(1) The invention will be further elucidated with reference to figures shown in a drawing, wherein:
(2) FIGS. 1A and 1B show respectively a perspective view and a front view of an object according to a first embodiment of the invention;
(3) FIGS. 2A-2C show respectively a perspective view and two different side views of a coupling element according to a first embodiment of the invention;
(4) FIGS. 3A-3G show the arrangement and locking of the coupling element of FIGS. 2A-2C in an object from FIGS. 1A and 1B, wherein FIG. 3A is a perspective view of the coupling element and the object in an uncoupled situation, FIG. 3B is a perspective view of the coupling element in the object in a non-locked situation, FIG. 3C is a bottom view of the situation of FIG. 3B, FIG. 3D is a bottom view of a partially rotated coupling element in the object, FIG. 3E shows in detail the coupling element in the situation of FIG. 3D, FIG. 3F is a perspective view of the coupling element in the object in a locked situation and FIG. 3G is a bottom view of the situation of FIG. 3F;
(5) FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a structure created with the modular construction system according to the invention;
(6) FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another structure created with the modular construction system according to the invention;
(7) FIG. 6 is a perspective view of yet another structure created with the modular construction system according to the invention;
(8) FIGS. 7A-7C show perspective views of yet another structure created with the modular construction system according to the invention;
(9) FIGS. 8A-8C show perspective views of yet another structure created with the modular construction system according to the invention;
(10) FIGS. 9A-9C show a tool for rotating a coupling element, wherein FIG. 9A is a perspective view of the tool, FIG. 9B shows arranging of the tool in an opening of the coupling element and FIG. 9C shows rotation of the coupling element using the tool;
(11) FIGS. 10A-10C show coupling of the coupling element to an object in a different manner;
(12) FIGS. 11A-11C show respectively a perspective view and two different side views of a coupling element according to a second embodiment of the invention.
(13) FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D are perspective views showing the manner of realizing a coupling between an object and a plate according to the invention;
(14) FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D show in a manner corresponding to FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D the four steps for forming a coupling between an object and a cord or rope provided with an attaching eyelet in accordance with the teaching of the invention;
(15) FIG. 14A is a side view of an attaching element comprising a shank and a head;
(16) FIG. 14B is a side view of the same attaching element rotated through 90°;
(17) FIG. 14C is a bottom view of the attaching element;
(18) FIG. 14D is a top view of the attaching element;
(19) FIG. 14E is a perspective view of the attaching element;
(20) FIGS. 15A, 15B and 15C show in longitudinal section three stages in the coupling of an attaching element to a coupling element;
(21) FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a coupling element according to a third embodiment of the invention;
(22) FIGS. 17A and 17B are perspective views of a tool according to a second embodiment;
(23) FIGS. 18A and 18B are perspective views of two objects according to other embodiments of the invention, wherein FIG. 18A shows the objects in a coupled state and FIG. 18B in a separated state;
(24) FIGS. 19A-19D are perspective views (19A, 19C) and side views (19B, 19D) of two objects according to other further embodiments of the invention;
(25) FIGS. 20A-20C each show a shaft for use in the construction system according to the invention;
(26) FIGS. 21A and 21B show two different perspective views of a slide plate for use in the construction system according to the invention;
(27) FIG. 22 shows another type of shaft for use in the construction system according to the invention;
(28) FIGS. 23A and 23B show an embodiment of a method for manufacturing an object according to the invention;
(29) FIG. 24 shows an embodiment of a skin plate for use in the construction system according to the invention;
(30) FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an object according to yet another embodiment of the invention;
(31) FIG. 26 shows a slide plate according to a second embodiment of the invention for use in the construction system according to the invention;
(32) FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a coupling element according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;
(33) FIGS. 28A-28C show a packaging for a construction system according to the invention, wherein FIG. 28A is a perspective view of the packaging, FIG. 28B shows a detail of the packaging of FIG. 28A, and FIG. 28C is a side view of two mutually connected packagings;
(34) FIGS. 29A and 29B show in perspective a wheel element according to an embodiment of the invention without (FIG. 29A) and with (FIG. 29B) an object according to the invention therein;
(35) FIG. 29C shows a perspective view of the assembled wheel element and object from FIG. 29B, with the object being arranged within the wheel element, and with a coupling element being arranged in the object and a shaft being arranged in an opening of the coupling element;
(36) FIGS. 30A and 30B show an object and a coupling element according to yet another embodiment of the invention; and
(37) FIG. 31 is a perspective view of an object and a coupling element according to yet another embodiment of the invention.
(38) FIGS. 1A, 1B and 2A-2C show an object and a coupling element according to a first embodiment of a modular construction system according to invention.
(39) In this embodiment object 1 is a substantially beam-like object with a total of fourteen surfaces 2, and an opening 3 in each surface 2. Each opening 3 comprises four lips 4 which extend substantially radially inward and which are arranged distributed over the periphery of opening 3 at mutually equal angular distances. In addition, each opening 3 is provided with a total of eight protrusions 5 extending substantially radially inward, wherein two protrusions 5 extend in each case between two lips 4. Lips 4 and protrusions 5 are connected integrally in this embodiment to surface 2 and extend inward from a peripheral edge which defines opening 3.
(40) As further shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, beam-like object 1 comprises protruding elements, in this exemplary embodiment thickened portions 12, close to all corner zones of all surfaces 2. Object 1 therefore has thickened portions 12 between each two adjoining surfaces 2 as well as close to the corner zones of the object 1 itself. These thickened portions 12 create a distance between adjacent surfaces 2 of optionally coupled objects 1 lying against each other, and thereby an open intermediate space 15 between surfaces 2, see also for instance FIG. 4. This intermediate space 15, which in this exemplary embodiment is narrow or slot-like, serves to accommodate or allow passage of an engaging or insertion limiting element 13 further described below with reference to FIGS. 2A-2C and/or for passage of an engaging part of a tool further described below with reference to FIGS. 9A-9C. This will be further elucidated with reference to FIG. 4.
(41) A slot-like intermediate space 15 is provided for aesthetic reasons between two surfaces 2 of an object 1 disposed in each case in the same plane.
(42) Coupling element 6 comprises a substantially pin-like body 7 with an axis 8 arrangeable in opening 3 of object 1. Body 7 is provided over the outer periphery with a total of four resiliently movable tongues 9 extending therefrom, on which tongues 9 are arranged locking cams 10. A surface 11 of each tongue 9 functions as engaging surface 11 for engagement by a protrusion 5 of object 1, as will be further elucidated below. Surface 11 is particularly a (sub-) front surface of tongue 9, more particularly a (sub-)front surface of a rib 16 extending from tongue 9, particularly a front surface of a projection connected to rib 16, which (sub-)front surface is disposed on a side of tongue 9 remote from pin-like body 7. The resiliently movable tongues 9 are connected in each case at one end thereof to one axial end of body 7 such that tongues 9 are pivotally movable inward between a normal, non-depressed position as shown in FIG. 2B and an inward moved position as will be further shown below in FIG. 3E. In the non-depressed position of FIG. 2B a distance d between two (diametrically) opposite tongues 9 is in this example about 13.75 mm. As shown in FIGS. 2B and 2C, two tongues 9 are connected in each case to the one axial end of body 7 and the other two tongues 9 are connected to the other axial end of body 7. Tongues 9 are connected here to that axial end disposed at the greatest distance from engaging surface 11.
(43) As further shown in FIG. 2A, body 7 of coupling element 6 comprises in this example a continuous opening 14 extending centrally therethrough. This opening 14 can serve to couple coupling element 6 to an object 30, as will be further shown below in FIGS. 10A-10C, or to receive an engaging part of a tool for rotating the coupling element, as will be shown below in FIGS. 9A-9C. In this latter case opening 14 functions as engaging element 14. Continuous opening 14 can also receive a shaft of a circular cross-section, which shaft can in particular rotate freely in opening 14 relative to coupling element 6.
(44) As also shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, tongues 9 each comprise in this example an outward protruding element 13 extending therefrom. This element 13 serves particularly as engaging element 13 for engagement by a tool for rotating coupling element 6 or for engagement by one or more fingers of a user. Element 13 also serves in this exemplary embodiment as insertion limiting element. As soon as element 13 comes to lie against a flat outer side of a surface 2 of an object 1 when coupling element 6 is inserted, coupling element 6 cannot be arranged further into opening 3 of object 1, so that the maximum distance or depth with which coupling element 6 can be arranged in opening 3 can be limited to a maximum insertion distance or depth.
(45) FIGS. 3A-3F show how coupling element 6 can be arranged and locked in object 1 and then uncoupled again. Coupling element 6 is arranged for this purpose in an arranging orientation in an axial direction in opening 3 such that locking cams 10 extend between lips 4 as seen in a rotational direction, see FIGS. 3A-3C. The coupling element is then rotated in a random rotational direction of two possible rotational directions to a locking orientation, see FIGS. 3F and 3G. In the locking orientation the locking cams 10 will extend over lips 4 as can be seen in FIG. 3G, and whereby coupling element 6 is locked in an axial direction in opening 3 of object 1. The locking in axial direction provided by locking cams 10 is particularly a locking against coupling element 6 being pulled out of opening 3. Coupling element 6 can also not be pressed further into opening 3 by insertion limiting elements 13. Coupling element 6 is therefore locked in both axial directions in object 1 using locking cams 10 and insertion limiting elements 13. During the rotation between the arranging orientation and the locking orientation the resilient tongues 9 will move temporarily inward in that protrusions 5 engage on, and thereby exert an inward force on, an engaging surface 11 thereof. This is shown enlarged in FIGS. 3D and 3E. In FIG. 3E coupling element 6 is shown in detail with the tongues located in their inward moved position. In this situation the distance d between the two (diametrically) opposite tongues 9 is in this example about 12 mm. In the locking orientation the resilient tongues 9 move back automatically to their non-depressed position as shown in FIG. 2B because the force on tongues 9 is removed. In its locking orientation coupling element 6 is hereby also locked in the rotational direction. Coupling element 6 is particularly locked here against an opposite rotational movement back to its arranging orientation. For uncoupling purposes coupling element 6 can be rotated in the opposite direction back to its arranging orientation, wherein some force must be exerted to release the locking as seen in rotational direction. The tongues will again move inward here when a force is exerted on engaging surface 11 by protrusions 5 and in the non-locked position, similarly to that shown in FIGS. 3B and 3C, move back resiliently to their non-depressed position. In the locking orientation the coupling element is limited against a further rotation in the same direction as from the arranging orientation to the locking orientation. The limitation in rotational direction takes place with one of the two side surfaces 18 of tongue 9, more particularly one of the two side surfaces 18 of rib 16 of tongue 8, viz. that side surface 18 which, during rotation of coupling element 6 from the arranging orientation to the locking orientation, comes to lie against a side wall of a lip 4 of object 1. Side surfaces 15 extend, as seen in an axial longitudinal direction of coupling element 6, between locking cam 10 and engaging element 13. Side surfaces 18 of rib 16 of tongue 9 thus form rotation limiting means which co-act with lips 4 of object 1.
(46) As further shown in for instance FIG. 3B, engaging element 13 of coupling element 6 protrudes outside the outer periphery or peripheral edge of opening 3 of object 1 on an outer side of surface 2 of object 1. Thickened portions 12 will create an intermediate space between mutually coupled objects 1 lying against each other. Engaging element 13 extends in this intermediate space and is therefore engageable, for instance by an engaging part of a tool. This can be seen for instance in FIG. 4.
(47) It is noted that object 1 and/or coupling element 6 can be embodied in any desired shape in order to enable the creation of different types of structure. Different structures are shown with reference to the FIGS. 4 to 8 further described below in order to illustrate the versatility of the modular construction system according to the invention.
(48) Shown by way of example in FIG. 4 is a first structure made with objects 1 and coupling elements 6 according to the invention. The structure of FIG. 4 comprises three objects 1 as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B and three other objects 1. The other objects 1 have in this example two hexagonal surfaces 2 between which extend six substantially square surfaces 2. The different objects 1 are connected alternately using a total of six coupling elements 6. As described above, a particularly narrow or slot-like intermediate space 15 is created between adjacent objects 1 by thickened portions 12 between adjacent surfaces 2. This slot 15 is visible in FIG. 4. Engaging element 13 extends in this slot 15 and is thereby accessible by an engaging part of a tool.
(49) FIG. 5 shows another structure made with objects 1 and coupling elements 6. In addition to the above shown objects 1, a substantially cube-shaped object 1 is now also used.
(50) FIG. 6 shows yet another structure made with objects 1 and elements 6. The structure is in this case a toy car. The car comprises a plurality of types of object 1, from which it will be clearly apparent that object 1 can be embodied in any shape. Objects 1 can particularly be beam-like objects of any desired length, wherein the number of surfaces 2 the object 1 comprises can depend on the length thereof. In addition, several objects 1 are embodied as wheels 17. FIG. 6 also shows that object 1 can in this case be a stiff, preformed skin plate 19. Such a skin plate 19 can cover the framework or open structure formed with objects 1 and thus impart a specific desired character and appearance.
(51) FIGS. 7A-7C show yet another structure made with objects 1 and coupling elements 6, this in highly schematic manner. The structure in this example comprises a framework formed by a simple elongate construction, see FIG. 7A, formed with objects 1. An object in the form of a flexible skin plate 19 is arranged around the framework and connected thereto using coupling elements 6, see FIGS. 7B and 7C. Skin plate 19 can be printed with any desired image so that any desired appearance can be imparted to the structure.
(52) FIGS. 8A-8C shows yet another structure made with objects 1 and coupling elements 6. The structure is in this case a toy truck, the trailer of which is covered with a skin plate 19. Skin plate 19 is coupled with coupling elements 6 to the framework which forms the trailer. This takes place in the same manner as elucidated with reference to FIGS. 3A-3G, wherein objects 1 and 19 are mutually connected by coupling elements 6. Skin plate 19 can here also be printed with any desired image.
(53) FIGS. 9A-9C show (the use of) a tool 20 for rotating a coupling element 6. As shown in FIG. 9A, tool 20 comprises a handle 22 and a first engaging part 21. In this example first engaging part 21 is an elongate, pin-like element with a non-round cross-section. In FIG. 9B a coupling element 6 is arranged in an opening of an object 1. Coupling element 6 is in its arranging orientation here. First engaging part 21 of tool 20 can be arranged in continuous opening 14 of coupling element 6. The cross-sectional form of opening 14 here has the same shape as the cross-sectional form of engaging part 21, and is therefore also not round. When first engaging part 21 has been arranged in opening 14, tool 20 can be rotated in one of the two possible rotational directions as described above with reference to FIGS. 3A-3G by gripping the handle 22. Coupling element 6 will hereby be rotated to its locking orientation. Because of the non-round cross-sectional form of opening 14 and of first engaging part 21 coupling element 6 will move together with tool 20 when it is rotated, since first engaging part 21 cannot rotate relative to opening 14.
(54) As further shown in FIG. 9A, the tool further has a hook 23 with which the protruding engaging element 13 can be moved. The hook can be arranged in slot 15 and thus brought into engagement with engaging element 13. Hook 23 thus forms a second engaging part of tool 20. The shape of hook 23 can be chosen as desired. The thickness of hook 23 is preferably adapted to, and in particular smaller than, the transverse dimension of slot 15 so that hook 23 can be arranged in and/or through slot 15.
(55) FIGS. 10A-10C show that opening 14 of coupling element 6 can also be used as coupling opening. In this example an object 30 with a pin-like protrusion 31 is arranged in opening 14 so that object 30 is coupled to coupling element 6. Pin-like protrusion 31 has a round cross-section, whereby object 30 can rotate freely relative to coupling element 6. With its other axial end the coupling element 6 can be coupled in the manner described with reference to FIGS. 3A-3G to an object 1 which in this example is cube-shaped, see FIG. 10C.
(56) FIGS. 10A-10C further show that each engaging element 13 is provided with an opening 60. Opening 60 debouches into central opening 14. Opening 60 can for instance receive hook 23 of the tool so that coupling element 6 can be rotated once hook 23 has been arranged in opening 60. A thread, rope or the like can alternatively be arranged through opening 60. This thread can be guided outside through opening 14, after which a knot can be made in the end of the thread. By providing this knot, or any other random suitable thickened portion, the thread can no longer be pulled outside through opening 60, so that a connection is brought about between the thread and coupling element 6.
(57) It is noted that coupling element 6 of FIGS. 10A-10C is a coupling element 6 according to a second embodiment of the invention. This coupling element will be further specified below with reference to FIGS. 11A-11C.
(58) It is further noted that object 1 of FIG. 10C is an object 1 according to a second embodiment of the invention. This object 1 according to the second embodiment differs from the object according to the first embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B in that protrusions 5 between lips 4 have an asymmetrical form. In this specific example each protrusion 5 has substantially the form of a non-equilateral triangle with a rounded apex. Coupling element 6 can be moved here over the one longer side of protrusion 5 during a rotational movement of coupling element 6 in the direction of the apex more easily than over the other shorter side of protrusion 5 during an opposite rotational movement of coupling element 6 in the direction of the apex.
(59) FIGS. 11A-11C show a coupling element 6 according to a second embodiment of the invention. Only the differences from the coupling element according to the first embodiment of FIGS. 2A-2C will be described, and for a further description reference is made to the description above relating to FIGS. 2A-2C. Coupling element 6 according to the second embodiment differs from coupling element 6 according to the first embodiment in that locking cams 10 are arranged on either side of tongues 9 as seen in a longitudinal direction parallel to the axial direction 8 of body 7. In the first embodiment locking cams 10 are arranged on only one side of each tongue 9, in particular close to the free end of tongue 9 not connected to body 7. In the second embodiment locking cams 10 are arranged close to the free end as well as close to the end of tongues 9 connected to body 7.
(60) FIG. 12A shows an outline that can be deemed an exploded view of an initial situation in which an object 1, shown in this example as a cube-shaped object, and a coupling element 6 are brought into position so as to be coupled to each other in the manner described in the foregoing. For coupling of an optionally flexible plate 19 to object 1, this plate is provided beforehand with a punched through-hole 32 and a per se known grommet 33 connected non-releasably to the edges of hole 32, i.e. a ring consisting of two sub-rings formed into one whole by means of a curling operation with a machine, and forming a through-hole 32 with a reinforced hole edge in the plate. Made ready on the other side of plate 19 is an attaching element 34 comprising a shank 35 with a widened head 36 on its free end. The details of the embodiment of the attaching element and the manner of coupling to coupling element 6 will be elucidated below with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15.
(61) FIG. 12B shows a following stage in which coupling element 6 is coupled to object 1.
(62) FIG. 12C shows the following stage in which grommet 33 is placed in position in the vicinity of coupling element 6.
(63) FIG. 12D finally shows that attaching element 34 is placed in its operative position in which plate 19 is fixed in the desired position relative to object 1. Shank 35 of the attaching element is for this purpose inserted through the eyelet and through-hole 32 into sleeve 37, i.e. the central continuous space 14 in coupling element 6. In a manner to be described below attaching element 34 is lightly secured in this drawn position, i.e. locked but, using some force, removable again.
(64) FIG. 13A is an exploded view functionally corresponding to the exploded view of FIG. 12A. In the embodiment according to FIG. 13 however, it is not a plate but a cord 39 that is coupled to object 1. Cord 39 is provided for this purpose in per se known manner with a loop 38 on its end.
(65) FIG. 13B shows the following stage as according to FIG. 12B.
(66) FIG. 13C shows the third stage as according to FIG. 12C.
(67) FIG. 13D finally shows the final stage, as according to FIG. 12D, in which the cord is coupled to object 1.
(68) FIG. 14 is a side view of attaching element 34.
(69) Shank 35 has an elongate continuous transverse hole 40 which is defined and bounded by two wall parts of the shank designated with reference numerals 41 and 42. It will be apparent that the force necessary to move the central parts of wall parts 41 and 42 some radial distance toward each other is very substantially smaller than the force necessary to have a shank without elongate continuous hole 40, so a solid shank, undergo the same deformation, even if this were possible. This aspect is important, as will be particularly apparent from the following elucidation with reference to FIG. 15.
(70) Wall parts 41, 42 each have in the middle a rounded protrusion 43, 44 connecting smoothly to these wall parts 41, 42.
(71) Head 36 has a relatively wide outer part 45 and a relatively narrow inner part 46.
(72) Inner part 46 has a large diameter such that it does not fit inside the sleeve. This inner part 46 thus forms the stop of the attaching element defining the operative position shown in FIGS. 12D and 13D.
(73) In anticipation of the discussion of FIG. 15C, it is now already pointed out that in the operative position the free end surface 47 of shank 35 lies at the same location as the corresponding end surface 48 of coupling element 6. FIG. 15C shows this aspect clearly.
(74) FIGS. 3C and 3D, among others, show the internal shape of sleeve 37. This shape can be described as a cylinder shape with four longitudinal ribs disposed at 90° relative to each other such that sleeve 37 is prismatic, i.e. the cross-sectional form of the sleeve is the same at any axial position.
(75) FIG. 14C shows the round shape of the wide outer part 45 of head 36.
(76) FIG. 14D shows that shank 35 has the same shape in end view, with the proviso that the shank head 49 which determines this end view is slightly smaller than the internal shape of sleeve 37 as according to FIGS. 3C and 3D. Shank head 49 can hereby slide in the sleeve, but it is locked against rotation at each axial position.
(77) At the end adjoining head 36 the shank has a second head 50 of the same shape which in operative position makes extra provision for an additional rotation locking.
(78) FIG. 14E is a perspective view of attaching element 34. Attention is drawn to the fact that it will be particularly apparent from this FIG. 14E that the elongate continuous transverse hole 40 extends along the length of the shank between first shank head 49 and second shank head 50. It is also pointed out that protrusions 43 and 44 are located precisely halfway along this distance.
(79) FIG. 15A shows a drawing, which can again be deemed an exploded view, of the situation where attaching element 34 is ready to be inserted with its shank 35 into sleeve 37 which extends through the whole coupling element 6 and has a prismatic form, i.e. has the same cross-sectional form at any position.
(80) Situated in this embodiment in the middle of the wall 51 defining sleeve 37 are recesses embodied as through-holes 52 which in a way to be described below can co-act in locking manner with the resiliently disposed protrusions 43, 44 on wall parts 41, 42 of shank 35.
(81) As shown in FIG. 15B, in the half-inserted position of shank 35 this shank is moved downward under the influence of an axial pressure force exerted on head 36 so that the rounded protrusions 43, 44 connecting smoothly to wall parts 41, 42 of shank 35 are pressed radially inward by the end edge 54 of sleeve 37, this being possible as a result of the flexibility of wall parts 41, 42 of shank 35. The effective diameter of shank 35 is thus limited to the space available, i.e. the respective inner diameter of sleeve 37. This provides the option of moving shank 35 further downward, while overcoming a certain friction force, to the situation as shown in FIG. 15C in which protrusions 43, 44 engage in elastically pressing manner in holes 52. Attaching element 34 and object 1, in particular sleeve 37, are relatively dimensioned such that in the operative position shown in FIG. 15C the end surface of the narrow inner part 46 of head 36 facing toward shank 35 engages on upper end edge 54 of sleeve 37. It is also reiterated that the free end surface 47 of shank 35 is situated in substantially the same plane as the end surface of coupling element 6.
(82) It will be apparent from the foregoing that attaching element 34 can be placed in the operative position shown in FIG. 15C by exerting a certain pressure force on head 36. Attaching element 34 can be removed from this operative position by exerting a force opposed to the pressure force 53, so a pulling force, on head 36. It hereby becomes apparent that the attachment of a plate, a fabric, a cord or the like can be brought about and released again.
(83) The thickness of the narrow inner part 46 of head 36, i.e. its axial dimension, must be sufficiently large to accommodate an element for attachment, such as grommet 33 or loop 38 of cord 39, relative to the coupling element with some freedom of movement, particularly for rotation.
(84) FIG. 16 shows a coupling element 6 according to a third embodiment of the invention. Only the differences from the coupling element according to the second embodiment of FIGS. 11A-11C will be described, and for a further description reference is made to the description above relating to the respective FIGS. 11A-11C and 2A-2C. Coupling element 6 according to the third embodiment differs from coupling element 6 according to the second embodiment in that it is provided with a projection 61 on an inner surface of tongue 9, or on the side of tongue 9 facing toward the body 7 of coupling element 6. Projection 61 prevents the possibility of tongue 9 being moved so far inward that tongue 9 breaks off. Projection 61 therefore functions as a limiting means for limiting the inward movement of tongue 9. Another difference is that in this embodiment tongue 9 does not comprise a rib 16, but that the projection with engaging surface 11, element 13 and locking cam 10 are connected directly to tongue 9, or form part thereof.
(85) FIG. 17A shows a tool 20 for rotating a coupling element 6 according to a second embodiment. Tool 20 comprises a central piece 64 with two opposite surfaces. A substantially straight elongate pin-like body 62 extends from the one surface of central piece 64. An elongate pin-like body 63 with an end zone 65 bent at an angle of about 90 degrees extends from the other surface. Pin-like bodies 62, 63 extend here in opposite directions. Pin-like bodies 62, 63 each have a substantially round cross-section, wherein end zones 65, 66 thereof have a non-round section, in particular with a shape adapted to continuous opening 14 of coupling element 6.
(86) FIG. 17B shows a tool 20 for rotating a coupling element 6 according to a third embodiment of the invention. Tool 20 comprises a rod body 301 comprising two straight segments 302 separated by a bend segment 303. Straight segments 302 form two substantially pin-like bodies extending in opposite directions. Bend segment 303 surrounds a part of a flat element 304 which forms a gripping surface for a user. The one straight segment 302 has an end zone 66 disposed in line therewith. The other straight segment 302 has an end zone 65 bent at an angle of 90 degrees. End zones 65, 66 have a non-round section, in particular with a shape adapted to continuous opening 14 of coupling element 6.
(87) FIGS. 18A and 18B show two mutually connectable objects 70 and 71, each with an opening 3 as described above. Object 70 has a cylindrical shaft 72 which can be arranged in a hollow cylinder 73 of object 71, see FIG. 18B. For arranging of shaft 72 in and removal thereof from hollow cylinder 73 the cylinder 73 has an open part 74. This open part is a part of the periphery of hollow cylinder 73 and extends over the full length of cylinder 73. In their coupled state objects 70 and 71 can swivel or pivot relative to each other about the axes of shaft 72 and cylinder 73. The maximum swivel angle can be selected as desired, and can for instance be 180 degrees. Using openings 3 the objects 70 and 71 can be connected to other objects according to the invention in the manner as elucidated above and with use of a coupling element 6. Two structures assembled with objects and coupling elements can in this way be embodied pivotally relative to each other.
(88) FIGS. 19A-19D show other further embodiments of objects 80, 81 according to the invention. Objects 80, 81 each comprise substantially two cube-shaped parts 82 mutually connected by means of a central piece 83 fixedly connected thereto. Central piece 83 is embodied such that cube-shaped parts 82 extend at a selected fixed angle α relative to each other. In the case of object 80 the angle α is about 60 degrees, in the case of object 81 the angle α is about 120°. It will be apparent that the angle α can be selected as desired. Cube-shaped parts 82 can have any desired shape, and can in particular also be beam-shaped. It can be seen particularly in FIGS. 19B and 19D that protrusions 5 have an asymmetrical form as already elucidated above.
(89) FIGS. 20A-20C each show a shaft 90 for use in the construction system according to the invention. Shaft 90 can for instance be a coupling shaft with which an object as described above can be coupled to another (type of) object. Shaft 90 has a cylindrical elongate body of substantially round cross-section. At both end zones shaft 90 has two longitudinal notches 91 disposed diametrically of each other, and a flange 92 extending in radial direction. Provided in the middle of shaft 90 of FIG. 20A is a radially extending central flange or collar 93 and in the middle of shaft 90 of FIGS. 20B and 20C a thickened portion 94. Thickened portion 94 is formed by a central part with a diameter larger than the diameter of the other parts of shaft 90.
(90) Shaft 90 can particularly be a rotation shaft about which the two objects coupled thereto can rotate, in particular freely, relative to each other. When shaft 90 functions as rotation shaft, thickened portion 94 can strengthen shaft 90, which is useful when two relatively large structures assembled with the system according to the invention rotate relative to each other.
(91) Shaft 90 can for instance be arranged in an opening 14 of a coupling element 6 arranged in an object. Because of the round cross-section of shaft 90 and/or the cross-sectional dimension thereof it can rotate freely relative to coupling element 6.
(92) As shown in FIGS. 20A-20C, shaft 90 can be embodied in any desired length. The optional thickened portion 94 can likewise be embodied in any desired length.
(93) FIGS. 21A and 21B show a substantially plate-like element 100 which takes a smooth form on one main surface 103 and has connecting means 102 on its other main surface 101 for connection to an object with openings 3 as described above. Connecting means 102 are formed by snap elements 104 with which plate 100 can be snapped fixedly into openings 3 of an object. Plate 100 can be removed again from the object with little force by pulling snap elements 104 out of openings 3. The smooth main surface 103 forms a low-friction sliding surface for two structures assembled with the system according to the invention which rotate relative to each other.
(94) FIG. 22 shows a shaft 110 according to another embodiment of substantially square cross-section and with a longitudinal rib disposed close to each corner of the square cross-section and each extending over the full length of shaft 110.
(95) Shaft 110 can optionally be inserted into an opening 14 of a coupling element 6 and engage thereon so that shaft 110 and coupling element 6 cannot rotate relative to each other. The cross-section of shaft 110 can be substantially adapted here to the cross-sectional form of opening 14.
(96) FIGS. 23A and 23B show that object 1 can be manufactured from two identical halves 120, for instance by injection moulding, which halves 120 are permanently connected to each other in order to provide the object 1, which in this example is cube-shaped. FIG. 23A shows the two halves before they are connected and FIG. 23B shows the halves connected to form object 1. The halves 120, in particular ribs of the cube, have mutually co-acting connecting means in the form of a protruding dowel 121 and hole 122. Dowels 121 of the one ribs of cube 1 are arranged in holes 122 of the other ribs of cube 1. The permanent connection is preferably provided by ultrasonic welding of the dowels 121 arranged in holes 122.
(97) FIG. 24 shows in more detail a skin plate 19 with openings 3 punched therein.
(98) FIG. 25 shows an object 130 according to yet another embodiment of the invention. Object 130 is similar to object 1 according to the first embodiment, whereby only the differences between them will be described, and for a further description of object 130 reference is made to the description of object 1 according to the first embodiment. Object 130 has thickened portions in the form of ribs 131 close to the transition zones between two adjacent surfaces 2. Ribs 131 serve for strengthening purposes.
(99) FIG. 26 shows a slide plate 140. Just as the slide plate of FIGS. 21A and 21B, slide plate 140 according to this second embodiment of the invention comprises a substantially plate-like element which takes a smooth form on one main surface 141 and has connecting means 143 on its other main surface 142 for connection to an object with openings 3 as described above. Connecting means 143 show some resemblance to the connecting means of the coupling element according to the invention. Slide plate 140 can be arranged in an arranging orientation in an opening 3 of an object and subsequently rotated to a locking orientation. In the locking orientation a locking cam 144 of slide plate 140 engages on a lip 4 of the object so that in the locking orientation the slide plate is locked in an axial translational direction. Rotation of the slide plate between the arranging orientation and locking orientation can for instance take place by arranging a tool as described above in the continuous opening 145 of slide plate 140. The smooth main surface 141 forms a low-friction sliding surface for two structures assembled with the system according to the invention which rotate relative to each other.
(100) FIG. 27 shows a coupling element 6 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. Only the differences from coupling element 6 according to the third embodiment of FIG. 16 will be described here. For a further description reference is made to the figure description for FIG. 16, FIGS. 11A-11C and 2A-2C respectively. Coupling element 6 according to the fourth embodiment has ribs 150 which extend between tongues 9 and pin-like body 7, and ribs 151 on an outer surface of locking cams 10. Ribs 150, 151 are provided in order to prevent coupling element 6 being pressed into an opening 3 of an object in an orientation other than the arranging orientation, at least not during normal use with the exertion of manual force.
(101) FIG. 28A shows a packaging 160 in which a construction system according to the invention can be stored. Packaging 160 can for instance be a cardboard packaging or the like. An upper side 161 of the packaging is provided with the number of connecting means in the form of plate-like objects 162. According to the invention objects 162 comprise surface 2, opening 3, lips 4 and protrusions 5, see FIG. 28B in which the object 162 is shown in detail. Objects 162 can for instance be adhered to packaging 160 or be connected thereto in any other random manner. A recess can be arranged, in particular punched, in the packaging, which recess is arranged in register with opening 3 in object 162 so that a coupling element 6 according to the invention can be arranged via opening 3 of object 162 in the recess in the packaging. Object 162 can alternatively be given a thicker form so that the coupling element does not protrude from object 162. Using objects 162 and coupling elements 6 a first packaging 160 can be connected to a following packaging 160, for instance in a stacked form, see FIG. 28C. Both the upper side and the underside of packaging 160 comprise a number of objects 162 here, wherein the underside of a packaging 160 can be connected to the upper side of a packaging 160 disposed thereunder by arranging coupling elements 6 in the objects 162 arranged in register with each other and subsequently rotating coupling elements 6 to the locking orientation.
(102) FIG. 29A shows a wheel element 200 with profile ribs 201. Wheel element 200 comprises a receiving space 202 for receiving at least a part of an object 1 of the construction system. In this embodiment receiving space 202 is a through-opening extending in an axial direction of wheel element 200 between two axial sides 204. Wheel element 200 is provided with one or more snap fingers 203 configured to engage on an object 1 arranged therein, for instance on at least one lip 4 of the number of lips 4 and/or on at least one protrusion 5 of the number of protrusions 5 thereof. Snap fingers 203 are connected in this example to an inner wall of wheel element 200, which inner wall defines receiving space 202. Wheel element 200 can be embodied symmetrically, wherein object 1 can be arranged in and/or removed from receiving space 202 on either side of wheel element 200.
(103) FIGS. 29B and 29C show wheel element 200 with an object 1 that is being arranged therein, wherein a coupling element 6 is arranged in object 1 in the above described manner and wherein a shaft 90 is arranged in opening 14 of coupling element 6. FIG. 29B shows an exploded view here and FIG. 29C shows the assembled situation. The free end of shaft 90 can be arranged in another coupling element 6 which can be arranged in another object 1, so that wheel element 200 can be connected to another object 1 and can rotate relative to this other object 1.
(104) FIG. 30A shows two objects 1 according to yet another embodiment of the invention which are coupled to a coupling element 6 according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. Object 1 differs from the object according to the previous embodiment of FIGS. 1A and 1B in that disposed in each case over a peripheral edge of openings 3 are eight lips 4, between which a total of four protrusions 5 are arranged. For a further description of object 1 reference is made to the description of the first embodiment of the object, particularly associated with FIGS. 1A and 1B.
(105) FIG. 30B shows the two objects 1 and coupling element 6 of FIG. 30A in an uncoupled state. Coupling element 6 substantially resembles the coupling element of FIGS. 11A-11C. Only the differences are described below. For a further description reference is made to the description for FIGS. 11A-11C and 2A-2C respectively. In this embodiment coupling element 6 comprises two engaging surfaces 11 formed by projections which are disposed in a V-shape relative to each other and which form part of tongue 9. The V-shape results in a groove between the two engaging surfaces 11. Following insertion of pin-like body 7 into opening 3 of object 1 a first of the two engaging surfaces 11 can be moved beyond a protrusion 5 of object 1 by displacing tongue 9 inward. Protrusion 5 then drops into the groove between the two engaging surfaces 11 in the locking orientation of coupling element 6. From the locking orientation coupling element 6 can be rotated in two rotational directions about its axis to the arranging orientation. Coupling element 6 and object 1 according to this embodiment do not therefore comprise any rotation limiting means.
(106) FIG. 31 shows the same objects 1 as in FIGS. 30A, 30B with a coupling element 6 according to a sixth embodiment of the invention. Coupling element 6 differs from the coupling element of FIG. 30B in that engaging surface 11 comprises a groove-like recess 11′ in which a protrusion 5 of object 1 can be received in the locking orientation. Coupling element 6 according to the sixth embodiment is further embodied in simple manner wherein several components, such as among others ribs 150 and 151, projection 61 and opening 60 are omitted. This demonstrates that the above described features of coupling element 6 are optional and can be applied as desired, optionally in any desired combination.
(107) The components of the construction system, in particular the objects, the coupling elements, the wheel elements and the attaching elements, are preferably manufactured from plastic. A suitable, mechanically strong plastic is for instance ABS.
(108) It is noted that the invention is not limited to the above discussed exemplary embodiments but also extends to other variants within the scope of the appended claims.
