HINGED CLAMP AND STAND ELEMENT BUILDING BLOCKS

Abstract

A building block includes a plurality of panel elements that are each rotatable relative to each other one of the plurality of panel elements; a connecting pin that passes through and rotatably connects the plurality of panel elements to each other; and a plurality of connectors, each connector rotatably attached to a respective panel element, where each one of the panel elements includes at least on locking feature configured to create a releasably fixed connection between adjacent panel elements. A connector assembly, including two barrel connectors that are rotatable relative to an I-shaped main body of the connector assembly, can connect multiple building blocks to each other.

Claims

1. A first connector assembly that is connectable to a second connector assembly that is structured like the first connector assembly, the first connector assembly comprising: a main body that includes: a center section that has a width that extends, from a first exterior side edge of the center section to a second exterior side edge of the center section, in a first direction and a length that extends, from a first end of the center section to a second end of the center section, in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction; a first arm section that is connected to the center section at the first end of the center section and extends longitudinally in the first direction from a center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the first exterior side edge of the center section, thereby forming a first arm, and from the center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the second exterior side edge of the center region, thereby forming a second arm; and a second arm section that is connected to the center section at the second end of the center section and extends longitudinally in the first direction from the center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the first exterior side edge of the center section, thereby forming a third arm, and from the center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the second exterior side edge of the center region, thereby forming a fourth arm; a first rotatable connector that is rotatably connected to the main body such that the rotatable connector can be rotated relative to the main body around a central longitudinal axis of the first rotatable connector that extends from a first end of the first rotatable connector to a second end of the first rotatable connector, wherein the first end of the first rotatable connector is connected to the first arm and the second end of the first rotatable connector is connected to the third arm; and a second rotatable connector that is rotatably connected to the main body such that the rotatable connector can be rotated relative to the main body around a central longitudinal axis of the second rotatable connector that extends from a first end of the second rotatable connector to a second end of the second rotatable connector, wherein the first end of the second rotatable connector is connected to the second arm and the second end of the second rotatable connector is connected to the fourth arm; wherein each of the first and second rotatable connectors includes: a respective protrusion that is connectable by friction fit into a notch of the second connector assembly; and/or a respective notch into which a protrusion of the second connector assembly is connectable by friction fit.

2. The first connector assembly of claim 1, wherein each of at least one of the first and second rotatable connectors includes both the respective protrusion and the respective notch.

3. The first connector assembly of claim 2, wherein, for the each of the at least one of the first and second rotatable connectors: the respective protrusion of the respective rotatable connector extends from an exterior surface of the respective rotatable connector in a first extension direction that extends away from the exterior surface of the respective rotatable connector and that is perpendicular to the respective central longitudinal axis of the respective rotatable connector; and the respective notch of the respective rotatable connector forms an opening in the exterior surface of the respective rotatable connector and extends from the opening in a second extension direction towards the central longitudinal axis of the respective rotatable connector, the second extension direction being perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the respective rotatable connector.

4. The first connector assembly of claim 3, wherein the first and second extension directions are perpendicular to each other.

5. The first connector assembly of claim 1, wherein each of at least one of the first and second rotatable connectors includes the respective notch.

6. The first connector assembly of claim 5, wherein the respective notch of the each of the at least one of the first and second rotatable connectors extends entirely through the respective rotatable connector, thereby forming a respective opening at each of two opposite sides of an exterior surface of the respective rotatable connector.

7. The first connector assembly of claim 1, wherein each of at least one of the first and second rotatable connectors includes the respective protrusion.

8. The first connector assembly of claim 7, wherein each of at least one of the first and second arm sections includes a respective notch: that forms an opening in an exterior surface of the respective arm section; that extends from the respective opening towards the center section of the main body; and into which a protrusion of one of the rotatable connectors of the second connector assembly is connectable by friction fit, so that the first and second connector assemblies are thereby connected to each other in a manner by which the first and second connector assemblies can swivel relative to each other.

9. The first connector assembly of claim 8, wherein each of the first and second arm sections includes the notch.

10. The first connector assemble of claim 8, wherein the first arm section includes the notch, and the second arm section includes a protrusion structured like the protrusion of the each of at least one of the first and second rotatable connectors.

11. The first connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the first rotatable connector includes the projection and not the notch and the second rotatable connector includes the notch and not the protrusion.

12. The first connector assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second rotatable connectors includes a respective first body connecting protrusion at the first end of the respective rotatable connector that is rotatable within a respective socket of a respective one of the arms and a respective second body connecting protrusion at the second end of the respective rotatable connector that is rotatable within a respective socket of another respective one of the arms.

13. The first connector assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second rotatable connectors includes a respective first body connecting socket at the first end of the respective rotatable connector within which a respective protrusion of a respective one of the arms is rotatable and a respective second body connecting socket at the second end of the respective rotatable connector within which a respective protrusion of another respective one of the arms is rotatable.

14. The first connector assembly of claim 1, wherein each of at least one of first and second rotatable connectors includes a cylindrical main body.

15. A build set comprising: a building block comprising: a plurality of panels, each of the plurality of panels being rotatable relative to each other one of the plurality of panels; a connecting pin that passes through and rotatably connects all of the plurality of panels to one another; and a plurality of rotatable connectors, each of the plurality of rotatable connectors being rotatably attached to a respective one of the plurality of panel; and a connector assembly that is connectable to the building block, the connector assembly comprising: a main body that includes: a center section that has a width that extends, from a first exterior side edge of the center section to a second exterior side edge of the center section, in a first direction and a length that extends, from a first end of the center section to a second end of the center section, in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction; a first arm section that is connected to the center section at the first end of the center section and extends longitudinally in the first direction from a center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the first exterior side edge of the center section, thereby forming a first arm, and from the center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the second exterior side edge of the center region, thereby forming a second arm; and a second arm section that is connected to the center section at the second end of the center section and extends longitudinally in the first direction from the center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the first exterior side edge of the center section, thereby forming a third arm, and from the center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the second exterior side edge of the center region, thereby forming a fourth arm; a first rotatable connector that is rotatably connected to the main body such that the rotatable connector can be rotated relative to the main body around a central longitudinal axis of the first rotatable connector that extends from a first end of the first rotatable connector to a second end of the first rotatable connector, wherein the first end of the first rotatable connector is connected to the first arm and the second end of the first rotatable connector is connected to the third arm; and a second rotatable connector that is rotatably connected to the main body such that the rotatable connector can be rotated relative to the main body around a central longitudinal axis of the second rotatable connector that extends from a first end of the second rotatable connector to a second end of the second rotatable connector, wherein the first end of the second rotatable connector is connected to the second arm and the second end of the second rotatable connector is connected to the fourth arm; wherein each of the first and second rotatable connectors includes: a respective protrusion that is connectable by friction fit into a notch of any of one or more of the plurality of panels; and/or a respective notch into which a protrusion of the any of one or more of the plurality of panels is connectable by friction fit.

16. A build set comprising: a building block comprising (a) a plurality of panels, and (b) a connecting pin that passes through respective through holes in each one of the plurality of panels, and that thereby rotatably connects the plurality of panels to one another, so that the plurality of panels are rotatable relative to one another, wherein each of the plurality of panels includes: a main panel body that forms a planar surface that extends radially outward from the connecting pin; and at least one panel arm that (a) connects the main panel body of the respective panel to at least one of the through holes that is part of the respective panel, and (b) spirals radially outward in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, forming an oblique angle to a direction of radial extension of the main panel body of the respective panel; and a connector assembly that is connectable to the building block, the connector assembly comprising: a main connector assembly body that includes: a center section that has a width that extends, from a first exterior side edge of the center section to a second exterior side edge of the center section, in a first direction and a length that extends, from a first end of the center section to a second end of the center section, in a second direction that is perpendicular to the first direction; a first arm section that is connected to the center section at the first end of the center section and extends longitudinally in the first direction from a center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the first exterior side edge of the center section, thereby forming a first connector arm, and from the center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the second exterior side edge of the center region, thereby forming a second connector arm; and a second arm section that is connected to the center section at the second end of the center section and extends longitudinally in the first direction from the center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the first exterior side edge of the center section, thereby forming a third connector arm, and from the center longitudinal axis of the main section to beyond the second exterior side edge of the center region, thereby forming a fourth connector arm; a first rotatable connector that is rotatably connected to the main connector assembly body such that the rotatable connector can be rotated relative to the main connector assembly body around a central longitudinal axis of the first rotatable connector that extends from a first end of the first rotatable connector to a second end of the first rotatable connector, wherein the first end of the first rotatable connector is connected to the first connector arm and the second end of the first rotatable connector is connected to the third connector arm; and a second rotatable connector that is rotatably connected to the main connector assembly body such that the rotatable connector can be rotated relative to the main connector assembly body around a central longitudinal axis of the second rotatable connector that extends from a first end of the second rotatable connector to a second end of the second rotatable connector, wherein the first end of the second rotatable connector is connected to the second connector arm and the second end of the second rotatable connector is connected to the fourth connector arm; wherein each of the first and second rotatable connectors includes: a respective protrusion that is connectable by friction fit into a notch of any of one or more of the plurality of panels; and/or a respective notch into which a protrusion of the any of one or more of the plurality of panels is connectable by friction fit.

17. A connector assembly comprising: an I-shaped main body forming a center section and two pairs of arms, wherein a first of the two pairs of arms extends away from the center section in a first direction and a second of the two pairs of arms extends away from the center section in a second direction that is opposite the first direction; a first rotatable connector arranged between and connected to the first pair of arms, wherein the first rotatable connector is rotatable about a central longitudinal axis of the first rotatable connector that extends perpendicularly to the first and second directions; and a second rotatable connector arranged between and connected to the second pair of arms, wherein the second rotatable connector is rotatable about a central longitudinal axis of the second rotatable connector that extends perpendicularly to the first and second directions.

18. A first barrel connector that is connectable to a second barrel connector that is structured like the first barrel connector, the first barrel connector comprising: a main body that has a length from a first end of the main body to a second end of the main body and an exterior surface that extends circumferentially around a central longitudinal axis of the main body; a first protrusion that is connectable by friction fit into a notch of the second barrel connector and that extends from the exterior surface perpendicularly to the central longitudinal axis of the main body; a notch that forms an opening in the exterior surface into which a protrusion of the second barrel connector is connectable by friction fit, and that extends perpendicularly to the central longitudinal axis of the main body from the opening towards a center of the main body; and at each of the first and second ends of the main body: a respective second protrusion that extends from the main body in a direction of the central longitudinal axis of the main body; or a respective socket formed by a concavity into the main body in the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the main body.

19. The first barrel connector of claim 18, wherein a center of a longitudinal extension of the first protrusion in a direction parallel to an extension of the central longitudinal axis of the main body and a center of a longitudinal extension of the notch of the first barrel connector in the direction parallel to the extension of the central longitudinal axis of the main body are at a same axial position of the main body between the first and second ends of the main body.

20. The first barrel connector of claim 18, wherein the extension of the notch from the opening towards the center of the main body is perpendicular to the extension of the first protrusion away from the exterior surface.

21. The first barrel connector of claim 18, wherein the first barrel connector includes the respective second protrusion at each of the first and second ends of the main body.

22. The first barrel connector of claim 18, wherein the first protrusion includes two opposite surfaces from each of which at least one friction bump protrudes.

23. The first barrel connector of claim 18, wherein the first barrel connector includes, at each of the first and second ends of the main body, the respective second protrusion that extends from the main body in the direction of the central longitudinal axis of the main body, and the respective second protrusion each includes a plurality of concavities arranged at regular intervals circumferentially around the central longitudinal axis.

24. A building block comprising: a panel; and a barrel connector; wherein: one of the panel and the barrel connector includes a first receiving socket at a top end of the one of the panel and the barrel and a second receiving socket at a bottom end of the one of the panel and the barrel; the other of the panel and the barrel connector includes: at a top end of the other of the panel and the barrel connector, a first spherical projection that (a) is held within the first receiving socket, and (b) is rotatable around a rotation axis within and relative to the first receiving socket to transition between a plurality of rotational positions into which the first spherical projection is lockable; and at a bottom end of the other of the panel and the barrel connector, a second spherical projection that (a) is held within the second receiving socket, and (b) is rotatable around the rotation axis within and relative to the second receiving socket to transition between a plurality of rotational positions into which the second spherical projection is lockable.

25. The building block of claim 24, wherein: (I) (a) the first receiving socket includes one or more concavities and the first spherical projection includes a plurality of convexities that are arranged at regular intervals around the rotation axis and that are each structured for snapping into each of the one or more concavities of the first receiving socket to thereby lock the respective spherical projection into a respective one of its rotational positions, and (b) the second receiving socket includes one or more concavities and the second spherical projection includes a plurality of convexities that are arranged at regular intervals around the rotation axis and that are each structured for snapping into each of the one or more concavities of the second receiving socket to thereby lock the second spherical projection into a respective one of its rotational positions; or (II) (a) the first receiving socket includes one or more convexities and the first spherical projection includes a plurality of concavities that are arranged at regular intervals around the rotation axis and that are each structured for each of the one or more convexities of the first receiving socket to snap into the respective concavity to thereby lock the first spherical projection into a respective one of its rotational positions, and (b) the second receiving socket includes one or more convexities and the second spherical projection includes a plurality of concavities that are arranged at regular intervals around the rotation axis and that are each structured for each of the one or more convexities of the second receiving socket to snap into the respective concavity to thereby lock the second spherical projection into a respective one of its rotational positions.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0046] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an example building block according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 1B is a schematic top view of the example building block according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIGS. 1C and 1D are schematic side views of the example building block according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 1E is a schematic bottom view of the example building block according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIGS. 2A and 2B are perspective views of an example first panel element according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an example second panel element according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an example third panel element according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an example fourth panel element according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIGS. 5B and 5C are detailed schematic sectional views of the example panel elements according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of an example connecting pin according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a connecting nut according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 6C is a schematic sectional view of the connecting nut according to an example embodiment.

[0058] FIGS. 7A and 7B are perspective views of an example connector according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] FIG. 8A is a schematic view of an example connection between the panel elements according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] FIGS. 8B and 8C are detailed schematic views of an example pin socket and locking elements according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] FIG. 9 depicts an example use of the building block according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] FIG. 10 depicts an example use of the building block according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] FIG. 11 depicts an example use of the building block according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example building block.

[0065] FIG. 13 illustrates a building block arranged as a corner block according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] FIG. 14 illustrates a building block arranged as a base according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] FIG. 15 illustrates a connecting element with a protrusion for interlocking with a notch according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] FIG. 16 illustrates an extension connector according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] FIG. 17 illustrates a connection of six building blocks to the extension connector according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] FIG. 18 illustrates example dimensions of the extension connector, according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] FIG. 19 illustrates an extension connector with a plurality of rotating connectors, where the rotating connectors includes a plurality of concavities and the extension connector includes sockets with cam locks configured to engage with the concavities for locking the rotating connectors into respective rotational positions, according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] FIG. 20 illustrates the extension connector of FIG. 19, according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] FIG. 21 illustrates the rotating connector of FIG. 19 and example dimensions thereof, according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] FIG. 22 illustrates example dimensions of the extension connector of FIG. 19, according to an example embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0075] Various features and advantageous details are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating embodiments, are given by way of illustration only, and not by way of limitation. Various substitutions, modifications, additions, and/or rearrangements will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure.

[0076] In the following description, numerous specific details are provided to provide a thorough understanding of the disclosed embodiments. One of ordinary skill in the relevant art will recognize, however, that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

[0077] FIG. 1A illustrates an example building block 100 in a first position. Building block 100 includes panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500; connecting pin 600; and connectors 700. The panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 can each be connected to each other one of the panels by connecting pin 600, about which panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 can be rotated relative to each other. Connecting nut 650 can be releasably attached to one end of connecting pin 600. Each connector 700 can include at least one connecting projection 710 and at least one connecting notch 760.

[0078] FIG. 1B is a schematic top view of building block 100 in the first position. In the first position, panel element 200 contacts panel element 400, and panel element 300 contacts panel element 500. Each panel element 200, 300, 400, and 500 can have a respective top connecting notch 260, 360, 460, and 560 as shown. As shown in FIG. 1B, connecting projections 710 can be rotated to, and between, a position that is perpendicular to a planar surface of the respective panel element to which the connecting projection 710 is connected and a position that is parallel to the planar surface of the respective panel element to which the connecting projection 710 is connected. In an example, the connecting projection 710 is shaped form fittingly for insertion into notches 260, 360, 460, and 560 mentioned above and/or to notches 760 described below and/or to notches 261, 361, 461, and 561 described below, for example for a friction fit connection thereto, to thereby connect different panel elements of the same or different building blocks to each other. In example embodiment the connecting element 710 includes a protrusion 711 as shown in FIG. 15, e.g., longitudinally extending parallel to a longitudinal extension of a central longitudinal axis of connector 700, and one or more of notches 760, 261, 361, 461, and 561 includes an interiorly protruding ring (or bar(s)), e.g., ring 712 shown in notch 760 in FIG. 15, that releasably lock with each other for holding the connecting projection 710 in the notch into which it is inserted until a user applies a strong enough force, that is greater than the locking force, pulling the connecting projection 710 out of the notch. In an example embodiment one of the elements 711 and 712 (or other similar element of another notch) is a projection and the other is a groove for receiving the projection.

[0079] FIG. 1C is schematic top view of building block 100 in the first position. As shown in FIG. 1C, connecting pin 600 can extend through a portion of each panel element 200, 300, 400, and 500, and connecting nut 650 can be releasably attached to one end of connecting pin 600, for example by a threaded connection (see, e.g., FIG. 6A described below). Connectors 700 can include connecting notches 760. The notches 760 can be through holes through one side of a respective connector 700 to and through an opposite side of the respective connector 700, thereby forming two receptacles in which to receive a respective connecting projection of a respective other panel element, or can be a longitudinal groove in a respective side of the respective connector 700. A respective notch 760 can be formed on each of one, two, or three sides of a respective connector, with a connecting projection 710 being formed on the fourth side of the respective connector 700.

[0080] FIG. 1D is a schematic side view of building block 100 in the first position. As illustrated in FIG. 1D, connecting projections 710 can be rotated to a position approximately perpendicular to the respective panel element connecting projection 710 is connected or to a position approximately parallel to the respective panel element connecting projection 710 is connected.

[0081] FIG. 1E is a schematic bottom view of building block 100 in the first position. In the first position, panel element 200 contacts panel element 400, and panel element 300 contacts panel element 500. In addition to top connecting notches 260, 360, 460, and 560, as shown in FIG. 1B, each panel element 200, 300, 400, and 500 can have bottom connecting notches 261, 361, 461, and 561.

[0082] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of panel element 200, disconnected from building block 100. Panel element 200 can include body 210. Top shoulder 220, bottom shoulder 230, and top connecting notch 260 can be formed on body 210, and top shoulder 220 and bottom shoulder 230 can be configured to receive connector 700. Top pin socket 240 and bottom pin socket 250 can be formed on body 210, and top pin socket 240 and bottom pin socket 250 can be configured to receive connecting pin 600 to allow panel 200 to rotate about connecting pin 600. Top pin socket 240 can include top surface 241, bottom surface 242, and through hole 245, through which connecting pin 600 can be positioned. Bottom pin socket 250 can include top surface 251, bottom surface 252, and through hole 255, through which connecting pin 600 can be positioned. Locking feature 272 can be formed on bottom surface 252.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 2A, bottom shoulder 230 can include bottom connector socket 235, which is formed in bottom shoulder 230 and configured to receive connector 700. Top shoulder 220 can include top connector socket 225, which is formed in top shoulder 220 and configured to receive connector 700.

[0084] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of panel element 200, disconnected from building block 100. Panel element 200 can include body 210 in which connecting notch 260 is formed. As shown in FIG. 2B, top pin socket 240 can include first step 243 and second step 244, which are formed inside through hole 245 and project inwards towards the center of through hole 245. Step 243 and step 244 can be configured to correspond to a shape of head 601 of connecting pin 600, so that when connecting pin 600 is positioned in through hole 245, a top surface of head 601 of connecting pin 600 is flush with top surface 241 of top pin socket 240.

[0085] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of panel element 300, disconnected from building block 100. Panel element 300 can include body 310. Top shoulder 320, bottom shoulder 330, and bottom connecting notch 361 can be formed on body 310, and top shoulder 320 and bottom shoulder 330 can be configured to receive connector 700. Top pin socket 340 and bottom pin socket 350 can also be formed on body 310, and top pin socket 340 and bottom pin socket 350 can be configured to receive pin 600 to allow panel 300 to rotate about connecting pin 600. Top pin socket 340 can include top surface 341, bottom surface 342, and through hole 345, through which connecting pin 600 can be positioned. Bottom pin socket 350 can include top surface 351, bottom surface 352, and through hole 355, through which connecting pin 600 can be positioned. Locking feature 371 can be formed on top surface 351, and locking feature 372 can be formed on bottom surface 352.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 3, bottom shoulder 330 can include bottom connector socket 335, which is formed in bottom shoulder 330 and configured to receive connector 700. Top shoulder 320 can include top connector socket 325, which is formed in top shoulder 320 and configured to receive connector 700.

[0087] FIG. 4 is a diagram of panel element 400, disconnected from building block 100. Panel element 400 can include body 410. Top shoulder 420, bottom shoulder 430, and bottom connecting notch 461 can be formed on body 410, and top shoulder 420 and bottom shoulder 430 can be configured to receive connector 700. Top pin socket 440 and bottom pin socket 450 can also be formed on body 410, and top pin socket 440 and bottom pin socket 450 can be configured to receive connecting pin 600 to allow panel 400 to rotate about connecting pin 600. Top pin socket 440 can include top surface 441, bottom surface 442, and through hole 445, through which connecting pin 600 can be positioned. Bottom pin socket 450 can include top surface 451, bottom surface 452, and through hole 455, through which connecting pin 600 can be positioned. Locking feature 471 can be formed on top surface 451, and locking feature 472 can be formed on bottom surface 452

[0088] As shown in FIG. 4, bottom shoulder 430 can include bottom connector socket 435, which is formed in bottom shoulder 430 and configured to receive connector 700. Top shoulder 420 can include top connector socket 425, which is formed in top shoulder 420 and configured to receive connector 700.

[0089] FIG. 5A is a diagram of panel element 500, disconnected from building block 100. Panel element 500 can include body 510. Top shoulder 520, bottom shoulder 530, and top connecting notch 560 can be formed on body 510, and top shoulder 520 and bottom shoulder 530 can be configured to receive connector 700. Top pin socket 540 and bottom pin socket 550 can also be formed on body 510, and top pin socket 540 and bottom pin socket 550 can be configured to receive connecting pin 600 to allow panel 500 to rotate about connecting pin 600. Top pin socket 540 can include top surface 541, a bottom surface 542, and through hole 545, through which connecting pin 600 can be positioned. Bottom pin socket 550 can include top surface 551, bottom surface 552, and through hole 555, through which connecting pin 600 can be positioned. Locking feature 571 can be formed on top surface 551.

[0090] As shown in FIG. 5A, bottom shoulder 530 can include bottom connector socket 535, which is formed in bottom shoulder 530 and configured to receive connector 700. Top shoulder 520 can include top connector socket 525, which is formed in top shoulder 520 and configured to receive connector 700.

[0091] FIG. 5B is a detailed sectional view of top shoulders 220, 320, 420, and 520. Each top shoulder 220, 320, 420, and 520 includes a respective top connector socket 225, 325, 425, and 525. Each top connector socket 225, 325, 425, and 525 includes a top receptacle 221, 321, 421, and 521 for receiving connector 700. Each top receptacle 221, 321, 421, and 521 can also include ridge elements 226, 326, 426, 526 positioned around the circumference of top receptacle 221, 321, 421, 521. Ridge elements 226, 326, 426, and 526 can be configured to engage and contact connector 700.

[0092] FIG. 5C is a detailed sectional view of bottom shoulders 230, 330, 430, and 530. Each bottom shoulder 230, 330, 430, and 530 includes a respective bottom connector socket 235, 335, 435, and 535. Each bottom connector socket 235, 335, 435, and 535 includes a bottom receptacle 231, 331, 431, and 531 for receiving connector 700. Bottom receptacle 231, 331, 431, and 531 can also include ridge elements 236, 336, 436, 536 that are positioned around the circumference of bottom receptacle 231, 331, 431, 531. Ridge elements 237, 327, 427, and 527 can be configured to engage and contact connector 700.

[0093] FIG. 6A is a diagram of connecting pin 600. Connecting pin 600 includes top end 610 and bottom end 620. Located at top end 610 of connecting pin 600 is head 601. Located at bottom end 620 of pin is thread portion 602, and located in between head 601 and thread portion 602 is shank portion 603. Head 601 can have a larger diameter than shank portion 603 and thread portion 602.

[0094] FIG. 6B is a diagram of connecting nut 650. Connecting nut 650 is configured to releasably engage thread portion 602 of connecting pin 600 and can include top surface 651 and bottom surface 652. Connecting nut 650 can also include through hole 667 and step 653 which is formed inside through hole 667. Connecting nut 650 can also include ridges 669 formed on the outer surface of connecting nut 650. Ridges 669 can be utilized to assist in engaging and disengaging connecting nut 650 to and from thread portion 602 of connecting pin 600.

[0095] FIG. 6C is a cross-sectional view of connecting nut 650. As shown in FIG. 6C, step 653 separates through hole 677 into two sections: first section 668 and second section 655. In this example embodiment, first section 668 has a smaller diameter than second section 655, and the transition between section 668 and 655 is delimited by step 653. Section 668 of through hole 677 can be configured to receive thread portion 602 of pin 600. For example, section 668 can be threaded to receive thread portion 602 of pin 600. In an example embodiment, pin 600 extends downward into connecting nut 650 at the top surface 651 of connecting nut 650, with threaded portion 602 of pin 600 threaded through section 668 of nut 650, with a bottom end of pin 600 extending into section 655 of nut. In a manufacturing method, with the bottom end of pin 600 in section 655, a process such as melting is performed to deform the bottom end of pin 600 to widen a tip of pin 600 at its bottom end, so that the widened tip abuts against step 653 when pin 600 is twisted to be threadably shifted in a direction away from nut 650 by a predetermined amount. In this way, pin 600 cannot be completely removed from nut 650, but rather only loosened.

[0096] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of connector 700. Connector 700 can include body portion 705, connecting notch 760, and connecting projection 710. Connecting projection 710 can be positioned on body 705 approximately orthogonal to connecting notch 760. Connector 700 can also include top projection 720 and bottom projection 730. Top projection 720 and bottom projection extend from body portion 705 of connector 700 and are configured to connect connector 700 to panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 via respective connector sockets 225, 235, 325, 335, 425, 435, 525, and 535 of panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500.

[0097] FIG. 7B is a detail of top projection 720. In the illustrated example embodiment, top projection 720 includes first projection element 721, second projection element 722, and third projection element 723, each projecting away from body portion 705 of connector 700. First, second, and third projection elements 721-723 in the illustrated example embodiment are separate projections and surround cavity 724. First, second, and third projection elements 721-723 are configured, for example, to contact ridge elements 226 of panel elements 200 to allow connector 700 to be rotated with respect to panel element 200. For example, the combination of projection elements 721-723 and ridge elements 226 of panel element 200 can form a detent so to enable connector 700 to rotate at discrete steps with respect to panel element 200. For example, as the connector 700 is rotated between resting positions in which vertices of the projection elements 721-723 lie in corresponding exterior vertices of the ridge element 226, the projection elements 721-723 are pressed radially inward by contact of the vertices of the projection elements 721-723 with interior vertices of the ridge element 226 allowing the rotation of the connector 700 by application of force sufficient to overcome the outward elastic bias of projection elements 721-723. In each resting position of the connector 700, a long side of each of the projection elements 721-723 extending between a respective pair of vertices of the respective projection element extends between a respective non-adjacent pair of the exterior vertices of the ridge element 226.

[0098] In an example embodiment, bottom projection 730 of connector 700 is configured in the same manner as top projection 720.

[0099] In an alternative example embodiment, instead of projection elements 721-723, projections 720 and 730 are formed as top and bottom balls that are rotatable in connector sockets 225, 235, 325, 335, 425, 435, 525, and 535, shaped as receiving domes, as shown for example in FIG. 15.

[0100] FIG. 8A is a schematic view of a part of building block 100, illustrating locking features 272, 371, 372, 471, 472, and 571 of panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500. As shown in FIG. 8A, panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 are rotatably connected to each other via connecting pin 600; top pin socket 240, 340, 440; and bottom pin socket 350, 450, and 550. When panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 are connected, locking element 272 engages with locking element 371 of panel element 300; locking element 372 engages with locking element 471; and locking element 472 engages with locking element 571. Locking elements 272, 371, 372, 471, 427, and 571 are configured to create a fixed connection between adjacent panel elements when tightened against each other by the tightening of nut 650 on pin 600, while at the same time enabling panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 to rotate relative to each other about connecting pin 600 when the nut 650 is loosened.

[0101] In an example embodiment, each pair of contacting locking elements, i.e., 272/371; 372/471; and 472/571 is configured with a plurality of separate detents so that panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 can rotate at discrete steps with respect to each other when loosened. The detents are sloped allowing the mating locking elements to maintain contact with each other as the panel elements are rotated, allowing an easy rotation with just minimal loosening of nut 650.

[0102] FIG. 8B is a detailed schematic view of bottom pin socket 450, illustrating locking elements 471 and 472 formed on top surface 451 and bottom surface 452, respectively, of bottom pin socket 500.

[0103] FIG. 8C is a detailed schematic top view of top pin socket 450, illustrating surface 451 and locking element 471. Locking element 471 can be formed as a series of projections around the annular top surface 451 and can correspond to locking element 372, with which locking element 471 engages and is in contact when panel elements 300 and 400 are rotated with respect to each other.

[0104] FIG. 9 depicts an example method of using building block 900 (which does not necessarily include all of the features described above with respect to FIGS. 1A-8C). Building block 900 can be used as a clamp to clamp object 905. To use building block 900 as a clamp, connecting nut 907 can be loosened to allow panel elements 901, 902, 903, and 904 to rotate into their respective positions. For example, panel elements 902 and 904 can be rotated until panel elements 902 and 904 are approximately parallel to each other and rest on surface 906, so as to form a base for building block 900. Panel elements 901 and 903 can then be rotated towards each other, so as to exert a clamping force on object 905. Once panel elements 901, 902, 903, and 904 are in their respective positions, connecting nut 907 can be tightened so as to lock panel elements 901, 902, 903, and 904 into fixed positions.

[0105] FIG. 10 depicts an example method of connecting building blocks 910 and 930.

[0106] Building block 910 can have connecting projection 913, which project from connectors 912, each connector 912 being rotatably connected to panel elements 914 and 915. Building block 930 can have connecting notches 916 formed in panel elements 917 and 918. As shown in FIG. 10, building block 910 can be positioned relative to building block 930 so as to align connecting projection 913 with connecting notches 916.

[0107] FIG. 11 depicts two building blocks 910, 930 connected to each other via a mechanical connection between connecting projection 913 and connecting notches 916. For example, connecting projection 913 of building block 910 can be pushed into connecting notches 916 until a mechanical connection is made between connecting projection 913 and connecting notches 916.

[0108] FIG. 12 depicts a perspective exploded view of components, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 650, and 700 of building block 100.

[0109] As shown in FIGS. 2A, 3, 4, and 5A, the pin sockets 240/250, 340/350, 440/450, and 540/550 include through holes 245, 255, 345, 355, 445, 455, 545, 555 connected to respective bodies 210, 310, 410, 510 by respective connecting arms. The connecting arms are bent so that the centers of the through holes 245, 255, 345, 355, 445, 455, 545, 555 are laterally offset from the respective bodies 210, 310, 410, 510, in that a straight line from respective ones of the through holes 245, 255, 345, 355, 445, 455, 545, 555 to a center of the thickness of the respective bodies 210, 310, 410, 510 forms an oblique angle with a direction of radial extension of the bodies 210, 310, 410, 510 from the pin 600. Further, the bending of the connecting arms is such that the spiral radially outward from the pin 600, the spiraling direction alternating between connecting arms of adjacent panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500. For example, with respect to a perspective by which nut 650 is at the bottom and pin head 601 is at top, the connecting arms of panel element 200 spirals outward from the pin 600 in a clockwise direction, the connecting arms of panel element 300 spirals outward from the pin 600 in a counter-clockwise direction, the connecting arms of panel element 400 spirals outward from the pin 600 in a clockwise direction, and the connecting arms of panel element 500 spirals outward from the pin 600 in a counter-clockwise direction. In this way, the spiraling directions of the arms of each pair of adjacent ones of the panel elements are opposite to each other. This allows for use of the panel elements to form a base and also to form a clamp. Specifically, when the building block 100 is viewed in a direction facing towards the pin head 601, then, when a pair of adjacent panel elements are spread out, the pair of panel elements forms a base of approximately 180 if the pair used is such that the arms of the bottom panel element on the right spirals outward in a counter-clockwise direction and the arms of the bottom panel element on the left spirals outward in a clockwise direction; and, when a pair of adjacent panel elements are rotated towards each other, the pair of panel elements forms a strong clamp if the pair used is such that their arms spiral radially outward in directions towards each other.

[0110] Significantly, as shown in the figures, in an example embodiment, four panel elements are included in a building block 100, which allows for the panel elements to form two clamps and/or bases. In the illustrated example, if two of the panel elements are used to form a base of approximately 180, then each of the panel elements used for the base also forms a part of a strong clamp with a respective one of the remaining two panel elements, but if the remaining two panel elements not forming the base are rotated away from the panel elements forming the base and towards each other to form a clamp, then the arms of the panel elements forming the clamp spiral outward away from each other. This, however, may be advantageous so that panel elements 200 and 400 can be rotated towards each other to a point where their radially exterior edges can abut against each other to form a clamp and so that panel elements 300 and 500 can be rotated towards each other to a point where their radially exterior edges can abut against each other to form a clamp, whereas if the arms of panel element 400 would rotate in the same direction as panel element 200, then body 410 would contact a radially interior edge of body 210 so that panel elements 200 and 400 could not be rotated towards each other as well, and similarly, if the arms of panel element 500 would rotate in the same direction as panel element 300, then body 310 would contact a radially interior edge of body 510 so that panel elements 500 and 300 could not be rotated towards each other as well. Additionally, this embodiment is advantageous because it allows for the building block 100 to be manipulated into a corner block as shown in FIG. 13, where one the panel elements have been rotated so that one of panel elements 200 and 300 forms a base and the other of panel elements 200 and 300 forms a wall, as outer planes of a corner, while panel elements 400 and 500 form inner planes of the corner. Although not shown, the panel elements can be rotated oppositely, so that panel elements 400 and 500 form the base and exterior corner wall and panel elements 200 and 300 form inner planes of the corner. Moreover, even according to this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, panel elements 200 and 400 can form a base, while panel elements 300 and 500 form a strong clamp extending perpendicularly upward from the base formed by panel elements 200 and 400. However, as shown in FIG. 14, due to panel elements 200 and 400 spiraling out towards each other, the base formed by the panel elements is not a 180 base, but rather each of panel elements 200 and 400 is angled slightly downward from the pin 600 towards an underlying support on which the formed base is supported. (Similarly, panel elements 300 and 500 can be rotated to form the base, while panel elements 200 and 400 are rotated to extend perpendicularly upward from the base to form a strong clamp.)

[0111] However, according to an alternative example embodiment (not shown), the arms of a first pair of adjacent panel elements spiral outward in a clockwise direction and the arms of a second other pair of adjacent panel elements spiral outward in a counter-clockwise direction, so that one of the panel elements of the first pair and an adjacent panel element that is of the second pair can form a base of approximately 180 and the remaining panel elements can form a strong clamp with their arms spiraling radially outwards towards each other, for example with reversal of the spiraling directions of panel elements 400 and 500. However, formation of corner structures may be difficult using a structure according to those embodiment.

[0112] According to a hybrid embodiment, different blocks 100 are provided that can connect to each other as discussed above, where the panel elements of one or more of the blocks 100 are arranged to spiral out from the center pin 600 in the manner shown, for example, in FIGS. 13 and 14, with each pair of adjacent panel elements spiraling outward in opposite directions, while formed, and the panel elements of one or more others of the blocks 100 are arranged so that a first pair of adjacent panel elements spiral outward in a clockwise direction and a second other pair of adjacent panel elements spiral outward in a counter-clockwise direction. In this way, some of the blocks 100 can be used as corner blocks, and others can be used to form flush bases.

[0113] In an example embodiment, as shown in the figures, each of the panel elements includes two pin sockets connected by arms to main bodies of the panel elements, with one of the pin sockets including one or two locking features, and the other not including a locking feature. For example, in an example embodiment the bottom ones of the pin sockets of all of the panel elements includes one or two locking features (the bottom-most of all of the pin sockets of all of the panel elements only locks to a pin socket of another panel element above, and therefore the bottom surface can be provided without a locking profile, while the top surface can be provided with a locking profile to lock to a locking profile of a bottom surface of a pin socket above, and similarly a top-most of the bottom pin socket of all of the panel elements only locks to a pin socket of another panel element below, and therefore the top surface can be provided without a locking profile, while the bottom surface can be provided with a locking profile to lock to a locking profile of a top surface of a pin socket below, while the bottom pin sockets of the remaining panel elements can including locking profiles on both the upper and lower surfaces of the respective pin sockets in order to lock to pin sockets above and below). On the other hand, according to this example embodiment, as shown in the figures, the top pin sockets of each of the panel elements does not include a locking profile. This can be advantageous because the provision of locking profiles on both pin sockets of the panel elements can make it difficult to maneuver the panel elements between different relative rotational positions and can make locking more difficult. Nevertheless, despite only the bottom pin sockets including the locking profiles, the top pin sockets are also provided for increased stability, reducing torsional forces of the panel elements in response to forces applied parallel to the extension of the pin. In an alternative example embodiment, the locking profiles are provided only on the top pin sockets and not the bottom pin sockets. In yet another example embodiment, the locking profile is provided on both the top and bottom pin sockets for a more secure lock, but, as noted, this can make maneuverability more difficult.

[0114] According to an example embodiment of the present invention, an extension connector 1600 is provided, for example as illustrated in FIG. 16. In an example, the extension connector 1600 is similar to the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500, except that, whereas the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 include (a) at one side, top and bottom connector sockets (or protrusions) for connection thereto of a connector 700, and (b) at an opposite side, pin sockets for receiving a connecting pin 600, the extension connector 1600 includes top and bottom sockets (or protrusions) at both sides of the extension connector 1600 for connection thereto of a respective connector 700 at each of the two sides of the extension connector 1600.

[0115] Specifically, in an example embodiment, the extension connector 1600 shown in FIG. 16 includes a top connector socket 1625A and a bottom connector socket 1635A at one side and a top connector socket 1625B and a bottom connector socket 1635B at the opposite side. (As alluded to above, it is noted that, although the figures show the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 and the extension connector 1600 including top and bottom connector sockets for receiving respective connectors 700 therein, in an alternative example embodiment, one or more of the connectors 700 include top and bottom connector sockets and one or more of the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 and/or the extension connector 1600 include top and bottom projections that can click into the top and bottom connector sockets of the respective connectors 700. Additionally, in an example embodiment, the connector 700 can include a connector socket at one end for receiving a projection of a panel element or extension connector 1600 and a projection at the opposite end for clicking into a connector socket of a panel element or extension connector 1600.)

[0116] As described with respect to panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500, the projections (whether provided on the connectors 700 or on the extension connector 1600) for connection between the connectors 700 and the extension connector 1600 can be in the form of projection elements 721-723 or in the form of balls as shown in FIG. 15.

[0117] In an example, the extension connector 1600 includes a top connecting notch 1660 (that are structured and function like notches 260, 360, 460, and 560 of the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500) and a bottom connecting notch 1661 (that are structured and function like notches 261, 361, 461, and 561 of the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500).

[0118] In an example embodiment, the extension connector 1600 is I-shaped with a center body section 1602 that extends longitudinally in a first direction, a top body section 1604 that extends longitudinally perpendicularly to the longitudinal extension of the center body section 1602 and a bottom body section 1606 that extends longitudinally perpendicularly to the longitudinal extension of the center body section 1602.

[0119] The connecting notches 1660 and 1661 form openings on respective exterior surfaces of the top and bottom body sections 1604 and 1606 and extend, respectively, through at least part of the respective depths of the top and bottom body sections 1604 and 1606 in a direction towards the center body section 1602. In an example embodiment, the connecting notches 1660 and 1661 extend into part of the center body section 1602. For example, FIG. 16 shows connecting notch 1661 extending into the a bottom part of center body section 1602.

[0120] Part (A) of FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of the extension connector 1600. Part (B) of FIG. 16 shows a side view of the extension connector 1600. Part (C) of FIG. 16 shows a cross-section of the extension connector 1600 taken along line A-A of part (B) of FIG. 16. Part (D) of FIG. 16 shows a top view of the extension connector 1600. Part (E) of FIG. 16 shows a side view of the extension connector 1600 that is perpendicular to the side view of part (B) of FIG. 16 and showing the inclusion of connector 700.

[0121] M an example embodiment, the extension connector 1600, including the two connectors 700 at its two opposite sides, can connect a plurality of building blocks 100 and/or other like-structured extension connectors 1600 to one another. For example, an example, up to six building blocks 100 can be connected directly to the extension connector 1600, as follows. A first building block 100 (or other extension connector 1600) can be connected to the top connecting notch 1660. A second building block 100 (or other extension connector 1600) can be connected to the bottom connecting notch 1661. A third building block 100 (or other extension connector 1600) can be connected to the connecting projection 710 of a first of the connectors 700 that is provided at a first side of the extension connector 1600. A fourth building block 100 (or other extension connector 1600) can be connected to the connecting notch 760 of the first of the connectors 700 that is provided at the first side of the extension connector 1600. A fifth building block 100 (or other extension connector 1600) can be connected to the connecting projection 710 of a second of the connectors 700 that is provided at a second side of the extension connector 1600. A sixth building block 100 (or other extension connector 1600) can be connected to the connecting notch 760 of the second of the connectors 700 that is provided at the second side of the extension connector 1600. Thus, the extension connector 1600 can be used to form complex structures and/or shapes by connecting multiple building blocks 100 and/or other extension connectors 1600. Additionally, it is noted that a string of extensions connectors 1600 can be connected to one another. FIG. 17 shows an example extension connector 1600 to which six building blocks 100 are connected as described.

[0122] In an example embodiment, the building blocks 100 and the extension connector 1600 are formed of a hard plastic, which provides rigidity for a stable build of complex components, but with enough flexibility to allow for the connectors 700 to be clicked into the connector sockets of the building blocks 100 and of the extension connectors 1600.

[0123] In an example embodiment, the same connectors 700 that are connectable to the sockets of the building blocks 100 are connectable to the sockets of the extension connectors 1600.

[0124] FIG. 18 shows example dimensions of the extension connector 1600 by illustrating parts (B)-(E) of FIG. 16, but adding dimensions, where units of the illustrated dimensions are in inches. Dimensions beginning with R. represent a radius. Unis beginning with indicate diameter. Units preceded by X indicates that a multiple of the component is provided (for example one at a top and another at the bottom). Units preceded by T represent a depth dimension. @1 DRAFT indicates a taper.

[0125] Although the connector 700 has been described as being cylindrical, in an alternative example embodiment, the connector 700 is formed with a plurality, e.g., three, four, or more, of flat exterior surfaces connected to one another around the central longitudinal axis of the connector 700.

[0126] According to an example embodiment of the present invention, the connecting projection 710 of the connector 700 includes one or more friction projections 1950 on each of one or more surfaces thereof, for example, as shown in FIGS. 19 and 21, which show three friction projections 1910 on each of two opposite sides of the connecting projection 710.

[0127] FIGS. 19-21 show an example embodiment where the top projection 720 and the bottom projection 730 of the connector 700 include a plurality of locking concavities 2000 arranged circumferentially around a central longitudinal axis of the connector 700 (FIG. 19 showing an example with twelve locking concavities 2000); and where the top connector socket 225 and the bottom connector socket 235 of the extension connector 1600 each includes one or more cam locks. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 19-21, the top connector socket 225 and the bottom connector socket 235 of the extension connector 1600 each includes two cam locks 1950a/1950b. The cam locks 1950a/1950b are designed as convexities that can click into the locking concavities 2000 of the connector 700, thereby locking a rotational position of the connector 700 relative to the extension connector 1600, but such that the connector 700 can be rotated out of the locked position by application of a rotational force. Each of the locking concavities 2000 corresponds to a respective rotational position of the connector 700 relative to the connector 1600. It is noted that the respective top connector sockets 225 and bottom connector sockets 235 of the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 can also include the cam locks 1950a/1950b and the connectors 700 arranged in the sockets 225/235 of the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 can also include the locking concavities 2000.

[0128] Similar to that discussed above, with respect to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 19-21 as well, the sockets 225/235 can instead be provided in the top and bottom of the connectors 700 and the top and bottom projections 720/730 can instead be provided in the extension connector 1600 and/or the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500. Additionally, although FIGS. 19-21 show locking concavities 2000 on the connector 700 as being concave grooves and the cam locks 1950a/1950b as being convexities, in an alternative example embodiment, the cam locks 1950a/1950b are concavities and the locking element 2000, referred to above as concavities, can instead be convexities. For example, according to which alternative, the sockets 225/235 (whether provided as part of the connector 700 or provided as part of the extension connector 1600 and/or the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500) each includes two concavities on opposite sides of the respective socket and the top and bottom projections 720/730 (whether provided as part of the connector 700 or provided as part of the extension connector 1600 and/or the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500) each includes a plurality of convexities distributed at regular intervals around the central longitudinal axis of the respective projection.

[0129] extension connector 1600 and/or the panel elements 200, 300, 400, and 500 are each provided with locking concavities 2000 and the top and bottom projections 720/730 of the connectors 700 are each provided with

[0130] The described example embodiments are understood to be embodiments of the invention that are applicable to all aspects of the invention, including compositions and methods.

[0131] The above specification and examples provide a description of the structure and use of illustrative embodiments. Although certain embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art could make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the scope of this invention. As such, the various illustrative embodiments of the methods and systems are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, they include all modifications and alternatives falling within the scope of the claims, and embodiments other than the one shown may include some or all of the features of the depicted embodiment. For example, elements can be omitted or combined as a unitary structure, and/or connections can be substituted. Further, where appropriate, aspects of any of the examples described above can be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples having comparable or different properties and/or functions, and addressing the same or different problems. Similarly, it will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above can relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments.

[0132] The claims are not to be interpreted as including means-plus- or step-plus-function limitations, unless such a limitation is explicitly recited in a given claim using the phrase(s) means for or step for, respectively.