Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
1
TITLE OF INVENTION
CONSTRUCTION SYSTEM USING A COMB CONNECTOR
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to construction kits, construction elements, and
connectors
for construction elements.
.. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is a problem in the art to provide construction kits, construction
elements, and
connectors for construction elements, that are relatively reliably secured
when connected, are
relatively low in cost to manufacture, and are relatively easy to connect.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
From the foregoing, it is seen that it is a problem in the art to provide an
apparatus
and
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system of elements meeting the above requirements. According to the present
invention, an
apparatus and system of elements is provided which meets the aforementioned
requirements and
needs in the prior art.
Specifically, the device according to the present invention provides a
construction kit, a
variety of construction elements, and novel connectors for construction
elements. The
construction elements are relatively reliably secured when connected,
relatively low in cost to
manufacture, and are relatively easy to connect.
The device of the present invention provides a construction system that uses a
comb
connector element in combination with flat or generally planar polygonal
shapes such as, but
not limited to, triangles, squares, rectangles, pentagons, hexagons,
heptagons, octagons, and so
on. The invention can be used on a small scale as a toy or on a larger scale
to build structures
such as, but not limited to, houses, outhouses, stables, and office buildings,
among others.
The present invention is directed to at least one comb connector element in
combination
with generally planar polygonal shapes such as, but not limited to, triangles,
squares, rectangles.
pentagons, hexagons, heptagons, and octagons.
A plurality of comb connector elements and polygonal shapes can be used to
build three
dimensional shapes such as polyhedrons, e.g., a dodecahedron and an octagonal
prism.
The planar polygonal shapes can be regular or irregular polygonal flat or
substantially flat
shapes.
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The comb connector elements connect to the edges of the planar polygonal
shapes. Each
comb connector has at least one pair of connector members. Each connector
member has a
proximal end connected to the polygonal member, and a distal end. Each
connector member
having a face portion that includes a recess extending from a central region
of the face portion.
The recess extends to the distal end of the face member.
In additional to the aforementioned planar polygonal members, there are other
construction elements that are not substantially planar or polygonal. Further,
the polygonal
members are not necessarily planar, and can have three dimensional extent.
Additionally, the
polygonal members can include empty interior regions which can include pairs
of the comb
connector members.
The invention is directed to an element for selective manual attachment and
manual detachment
to a male attachment member which has at least one male element, comprising:
a body having at least one connector pair,
said connector pair including a first connector member and a second connector
member;
said first connector member having an outer periphery and a surface adapted to
receive a
.. male connector element, said surface having a recessed region adapted to
receive a male
element, said recessed region having a bounding wall extending from a central
region of said
surface of said first connector member to said outer periphery of said first
connector member,
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said recessed region of said first connector member being wider at said outer
periphery than at
said central region of said first connector member; said recessed region of
said first connector
member being open in a first angular direction;
said second connector member having an outer periphery and a surface adapted
to
receive a male connector element, said surface having a recessed region
adapted to receive a
male element, said recessed region having a bounding wall extending from a
central region of
said surface of said second connector member to said outer periphery of said
second connector
member, said recessed region of said second connector member being wider at
said outer
periphery than at said central region of said second connector member; said
recessed region of
said second connector member being open in a second angular direction;
said first angular direction being opposed to said second angular direction,
whereby
male elements respectively received in said recessed region of said first
connector member and
in said recessed region of said second connector member are retained.
The element as described above, wherein said first connector member and said
second
connector member are resiliently deformable.
The element as described above, wherein said first connector member has a
beveled side
adjacent its periphery, to faciliate sliding entry of male elements.
The element as described above, wherein said first connector member includes a
curved tip.
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The element as described above, wherein said surface having said recessed
region of said first
connector member has a ridge having a side wall, said side wall of said ridge
being adapted to
serve as a brake to prevent the accidental overshooting of nesting of a male
element.
5 The invention is directed to a separable hinge structure, comprising:
a first member having at least a first male element and a second male element;
a second member for selective manual attachment and manual detachment to said
first
member, said second member comprising:
a body having at least one connector pair.
said connector pair including a first connector member and a second connector
member;
said first connector member having an outer periphery and a surface adapted to
receive
said first male connector element, said surface having a recessed region
adapted to receive said
first male element, said recessed region having a bounding wall extending from
a central region
of said surface of said first connector member to said outer periphery of said
first connector
member, said recessed region of said first connector member being wider at
said outer periphery
than at said central region of said first connector member; said recessed
region of said first
connector member being open in a first angular direction;
said second connector member having an outer periphery and a surface adapted
to
receive said second male connector element, said surface having a recessed
region adapted to
receive said second male element, said recessed region having a bounding wall
extending from
a central region of said surface of said second connector member to said outer
periphery of said
second connector member, said recessed region of said second connector member
being wider
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at said outer periphery than at said central region of said second connector
member; said
recessed region of said second connector member being open in a second angular
direction;
said first angular direction being opposed to said second angular direction,
whereby said
first and said second male elements respectively received in said recessed
region of said first
connector member and in said recessed region of said second connector member
are hingedly
connected.
The invention is directed to a construction system, comprising:
at least one comb element, said at least one comb element comprising a
plurality of
teeth elements uniformly spaced apart, wherein at least one of said teeth
elements defines
a first side and a second side, each of said first and second sides comprises
four corners,
wherein a male protrusion element is located proximate to each corner of said
first side,
wherein a male protrusion element is located proximate to each corner of said
second
side; and
Is at least one generally planar polygonal element, wherein said at least
one polygonal
element includes a plurality of edges, wherein at least one said plurality of
edges has a
plurality of uniformly spaced apart female elements with grooves therebetween,
each
female element having first and second opposite sides, wherein each of said
first and
second opposite sides of said female elements respectively include first and
second female
channels for receiving said male protrusion elements such that said at least
one polygonal
element can dock with at least a portion of said comb element wherein said
grooves
accommodate said teeth elements;
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wherein said first and second female channels are enlarged along a periphery
of said
female elements, and wherein adjacent ones of said first and second female
channels open in
different angular directions so as to receive said male protrusion elements.
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will be more readily
apparent
from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the
accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a decagonal planar element, according to the
present invention.
FIG. 2 is a top elevational view of the element of FIG. 1
FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the element of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is a top view of a hexagonal planar element, according to the present
invention.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the element of FIG. 4.
FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the element of FIG. 4.
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FIG. 7 is a front/back view of the element of FIG. 4.
FIG. 8 is a top view of an octagonal planar element, according to the present
invention.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the element of FIG. 8.
FIG. 10 is a front/back elevational view of the element of FIG. 8.
FIG. 11 is a side view of the element of FIG. 8.
FIG. 12 is a top view of a pentagonal planar element, according to the present
invention.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the element of FIG. 12.
FIG. 14 is a front/back elevational view of the element of FIG. 12,
FIG. 15 is a side view of the element of FIG. 12.
FIG. 16 is a top/bottom view of a rectangular element, according to the
present invention.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the element of FIG. 16.
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HG. 18 is a front/back elevational view of the element of FIG. 16.
FIG. 19 is a side view of the element of FIG. 16.
FIG. 20 is a top/bottom view of a rhombus planar element, according to the
present invention.
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the element of FIG. 20.
FIG. 22 is a front/back view of the element of FIG. 20.
FIG. 23 is a side view of the element of FIG. 20.
FIG. 24 is a top view of a square planar element, according to the present
invention.
FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the element of FIG. 24.
FIG. 26 is a front/back elevational view of the element of FIG. 24.
FIG. 27 is a side view of the element of FIG. 24.
FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a hexagonal male connector element, according
to the present
invention.
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FIG. 29 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 28.
FIG. 30 is a side elevational view of the element of FIG. 28.
5
FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a four male connector element according to
the present
invention.
FIG. 32 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 31.
FIG. 33 is a side clevational view of the element of FIG. 31.
FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a short element according to the present
invention.
FIG. 35 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 34.
FIG. 36 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 34.
FIG. 37 is a front/back view of the element of FIG. 34.
FIG. 38 is a side view of the element of FIG. 34.
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FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a wheel element according to the present
invention.
FIG. 40 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 39.
FIG. 41 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 39.
FIG. 42 is a front/back view of the element of FIG. 39.
FIG. 43 is a side view of the element of FIG. 39.
FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a triangular element according to the present
invention.
FIG. 45 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 44.
FIG. 46 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 44.
FIG. 47 is a front view of the element of FIG. 44.
FIG. 48 is a back view of the element of FIG. 44.
FIG. 49 is a perspective view of a two-sided female connector element
according to the present
invention.
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FIG. 50 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 49.
FIG. 51 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 49.
FIG. 52 is a side view of the element of FIG. 49.
FIG. 53 is a front/back view of the element of FIG. 49.
FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a long two sided female connector element
according to the
present invention.
FIG. 55 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 54.
FIG. 56 is a side view of the element of FIG. 54.
IS
FIG. 57 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 54.
FIG. 58 is a front/back view of the element of FIG. 54.
FIG. 59 is a perspective view of a triangular planar element according to the
present invention.
FIG. 60 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 59.
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FIG. 61 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 59.
FIG. 62 is a back view of the element of FIG. 59.
FIG. 63 is a front view of the element of FIG. 59.
FIG. 64 is a perspective view of a square planar element according to the
present invention.
FIG. 65 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 64.
FIG. 66 is a side view of the element of FIG. 64.
FIG. 67 is a perspective view of an angle locking hinge stop element according
to the present
invention.
FIG. 68 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 67.
FIG. 69 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 67.
FIG. 70 is a front/back view of the element of FIG. 67.
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FIG. 71 is a side view of the element of FIG. 67.
FIG. 72 is a perspective view of a hermaphroditic hinge connector element
according to the
present invention.
FIG. 73 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 72.
FIG. 74 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 72.
FIG. 75 is a front view of the element of FIG. 72.
FIG. 76 is a back view of the element of FIG. 72.
FIG. 77 is a perspective view of a unity block element according to the
present invention.
FIG. 78 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 77.
FIG. 79 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 77.
FIG. 80 is a front/back view of the element of FIG. 77.
FIG. 81 is a front/back view of the element of FIG. 77.
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FIG. 82 is a perspective view of a lock element according to the present
invention.
FIG. 83 is another perspective view of the lock element of FIG. 82, according
to the present
5 invention.
FIG. 84 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 83.
FIG. 85 is a front view of the element of FIG. 82.
FIG. 86 is a back view of the element of FIG. 82.
FIG. 87 is a perspective view of a utility block element according to the
present invention.
FIG. 88 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 87.
FIG. 89 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 87.
FIG. 90 is a front/back view of the element of FIG. 87.
HG. 91 is a side view of the element of FIG. 87.
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FIG. 92 is a perspective view of an angular element having a 120 degree angle,
according to the
present invention.
FIG. 93 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 92.
FIG. 93 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 92.
FIG. 94 is a front view of the element of FIG. 92.
FIG. 95 is a front view of the element of FIG. 92.
FIG. 96 is a back of the element of FIG. 92.
FIG. 97 is a perspective view of an angular element having a 135 degree angle,
according to the
present invention.
FIG. 98 is another perspective view of the element of FIG. 97.
FIG. 99 is a top/bottom view of the element of FIG. 97.
FIG. 100 is a front view of the element of FIG. 97.
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FIG. 101 is a back view of the element of FIG. 97.
FIG. 102 illustrates a perspective view of a chain-style connection.
FIG. 103 is an assembly view of the connection of FIG. 103.
FIG. 104 is a perspective view of a four connection, according to the
invention.
FIG. 105 is a perspective view of a square style connection, according to the
invention.
FIG. 106 is a perspective view of a male connector with a pin element,
according to the
invention.
FIG. 107 is an assembly view of the male connector with a pin element of FIG.
106.
FIG. 108 is a perspective view of a female-to-female connection, according to
the invention.
FIG. 109 is a perspective view of a female-to-female connection of FIG. 105.
FIG. 110 is a perspective view of a pair of connector members, according to
the invention.
FIG. 111 is another perspective view of the pair of connector members of FIG.
110.
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FIG. 112 is an elevational view of one face of one of pair of connector
members of FIG. 110.
FIG. 113 is a front view of the pair of connector members of FIG. 110.
FIG. 114 is a sectional view taken along line X-X of FIG. 112.
FIG. 115 is a sectional view taken along line Y-Y of FIG. 113.
FIG. 116 is atop elevational view of the pair of connector members of FIG.
110.
FIG. 117 is an enlarged view corresponding to FIG. 111.
FIG. 118 is a perspective view of a pin connection between two elements.
FIG. 119 is an assembly view showing insertion of a pin into a hole in one of
the elements.
FIG. 120 is a perspective view of a hermaphroditic connector element,
according to the present
invention.
21)
FIG. 121 is a top elevational view of the hermaphroditic connector element of
FIG. 120.
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FIG. 122 is a side elevational view of the hermaphroditic connector element of
FIG. 120.
FIG. 123 is a perspective view of the connection of two hermaphroditic
connector elements of
FIG. 120.
FIG. 124 is an assembly view of the connection of the two hermaphroditic
connector elements
of FIG. 123.
FIG. 125 is a perspective view of a stick-like element, according to the
present invention.
FIG. 126 is a front elevational view of the stick-like element of FIG. 125.
FIG. 127 is a side elevational view of the stick-like element of FIG. 125.
FIG. 128 is an end elevational view of the stick-like element of FIG. 125.
FIG. 129 is an assembly view showing use of the stick connector of FIGS. 125-
128.
FIG. 130 is a schematic view of the pin and ridge connection of two
corresponding ones of a
pair of connector members, according to the present invention.
FIG. 131 is a schematic view of the insertion of male elements into respective
ones of a
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plurality of pairs of connector members, according to the present invention.
FIG. 132 is a schematic view showing a zipper-like unlocking of the
connections of the male
elements into respective ones of a plurality of pairs of connector members of
FIG. 131.
5
FIG. 133 is an enlarged view, similar to FIG. 130, showing a different type of
locking
engagement of the male elements behind the ridge members.
FIG. 134 is a schematic view of the insertion of male elements into respective
ones of a
10 plurality of pairs of connector members, for the locking arrangement
shown in FIG. 133.
FIG. 135 is a schematic view showing the ridge members in overlapping side
view, to illustrate
the oppositely directed connecting scheme of the present invention.
15 FIG. 136 is a schematic view similar to FIG. 135, showing a plurality of
pairs of the ridge
members and male elements in side view, to illustrate the oppositely directed
connecting
scheme of the present invention.
FIG. 137 is an isometric view of a plurality of square planar elements similar
to those of
20 the foregoing embodiments, and shown in detail in the following FIGS.
138-142 below,
arranged into a cube assembly.
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FIG. 138 is an exploded view of three square planar elements according to the
present
invention and shown in FIG. 137.
FIG. 139 is a top isometric view of a square planar element, according to the
present invention.
FIG. 140 is a bottom isometric view of a square planar element, according to
the present
invention.
FIG. 141 is a top view of a square planar element, according to the present
invention.
FIG. 142 is a side view of a square planar element, according to the present
invention.
FIG. 143 is a perspective top view of a hexagonal planar element, according to
the present
invention.
FIG. 144 is a perspective bottom view of the same element as FIG. 143.
FIG. 145 is a top and bottom view of the same element as in FIG. 143.
FIG. 146 is a side view of the same element as FIG. 143.
FIG. 147 is a side view of the front and back of FIG. 143.
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FIG. 148 is a top isometric view of a pentagonal planar element, according to
the present
invention.
FIG. 149 is bottom isometric views of the same element as shown in FIG. 148.
FIG. 150 is a top and bottom view of the same element as shown in FIG. 148.
FIG. 151 is a side view of a pentagonal planar element in FIG. 148, according
to the present
invention.
FIG. 152 is a front/back views of the same element as shown in FIG. 148.
FIG. l 53 is a top isometric view of a rectangular element, according to the
present invention.
FIG. 154 is a bottom isometric view of the same element shown in FIG. 153.
FIG. 155 is a top/bottom view of the same element shown in FIG. 153.
FIG. 156 is a side view of the element shown in FIG. 153.
F1G.157 is a front/back view of the same element shown in FIG. 153.
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FIG. 158 is a perspective top view of a triangular element according to the
present invention.
FIG. 159 is a perspective bottom view of the same element shown in FIG. 158.
FIG. 160 is a bottom view of the same view of the same element shown in FIG.
158.
FIG. 161 is a top view of the same element shown in FIG. 158.
FIG. 162 is a left side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 158.
FIG. 163 is a right side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 158.
FIG. 164 is a front view of the same element as shown in FIG. 158.
HG. 165 is a back view of the same element as shown in FIG. 158.
FIG. 166 is an isometric view of a square female connector element, according
to the present
invention.
FIG. 167 is a side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 166.
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FIG. 168 is a top view of the same element as shown in FIG. 166.
FIG. 169 is an isometric view of a square male connector element, according to
the present
invention.
FIG. 170 is a side view if the same element as shown in FIG. 169.
FIG. 171 is a top view of the same element as shown in FIG. 169.
FIG. 172 is an isometric view of a Y shaped element, according to the present
invention.
FIG. 173 is a bottom isometric view of the same element as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 174 is a top view of the same element as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 175 is a bottom view of the same element as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 176 is a front of the same element as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 177 is a back of the same element as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 178 is a left side of the same element as shown in FIG. 172.
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FIG. 179 is a right side of the same element as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 180 is a assembly of male and female elements as shown in FIGS. 166
through 171.
5
FIG. 181 shows an exploded view of the assembly of male and female hinge
elements as shown
in FIG. 180, and illustrates how assemblies or arrays of male and female
connecting elements
can be constructed in accordance with the present invention.
10 FIG. 182 is a front perspective view of a single connecting element with
a dimensional plate
connecting clement for friction insertion into orifices located on planar
elements, also referred
to hereinbelow as a hermaphroditic connector.
FIG. 183 is a back perspective view of the same element as shown in FIG. 182.
FIG. 184 is a top view of the same element as shown in FIG. 182.
FIG. 185 is a bottom view of the same element as shown in FIG. 182.
FIG. 186 is a back view of the same element as shown in FIG. 182.
FIG. 187 is a front view of the same element as shown in FIG. 182.
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FIG. 188 is a right side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 182.
FIG. 189 is a left side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 182.
FIG. 190 shows a back perspective view of a zipper element comprising a
"slider body"(pull-
tab, crown, sliding body) and "molded teeth" (standard zipper nomenclature)
incorporating the
inventions hermaphroditic connecting elements as previously shown.
FIG. 191 shows a front perspective view of the same clement as shown in FIG.
190.
FIG. 192 shows a top view of the same element as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 193 shows a bottom view of the same element as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 194 shows side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 195 shows a front view of the same element as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 196 shows a rear view of the element as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 197 shows a back perspective view of slider body element as shown in FIG.
190.
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FIG. 198 shows a front perspective view of slider body element as shown in
FIG. 190.
FIG. 199 shows a top view of slider body element as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 200 shows a bottom view of slider body element as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 201 shows a side view of slider body element as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 202 shows a front view of slider body element as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 203 shows a back view of slider body element as shown in FIG.190.
FIG. 204 shows a back perspective view of cable harness with
insulation/external covered
section and exposed un-insulated section.
FIG. 205 shows a front perspective view of the same element shown in FIG. 204.
FIG. 206 shows a top view of cable harness with insulation/external covered
section and
exposed un-insulated section.
FIG. 207 shows a front view of cable harness with insulation/external covered
section and
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exposed un-insulated section.
FIG. 208 shows a back view of cable harness with insulation/external covered
section and
exposed un-insulated section.
FIG. 209 shoes a left side view of cable harness with insulation/external
covered section and
exposed un-insulated section.
FIG. 210 shows a right side view of cable harness with insulation/external
covered section and
io exposed un-insulated section.
FIG. 211 shows a front overall view of a chain assembly configured into a
flexible ring.
FIG. 212 shows a perspective view of the same element as shown in FIG. 211.
FIG. 213 shows a side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 211.
FIG. 214 shows a front perspective view of hinge element with a flange with
orifices allowing
for bolted, screwed, nailed, welded, or other attachments to surface elements.
FIG. 215 shows a back perspective view of the same element as shown in FIG.
214.
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FIG. 216 shows a top view of the same element as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 217 shows a bottom view of the same element as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 218 shows a front view of the same element as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 219 shows a back view of the same element as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 220 shows the left view of the same element as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 221 shows the right view of the same element as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 222 shows a front perspective view of a hinge element incorporating a
"clip" element for
application along panels, boards, windows, plates, or any element commensurate
with the
embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 223 shows a back perspective view of the same element as shown in FIG.
222.
FIG. 224 shows a top view of the same element as shown in FIG. 222.
FIG. 225 shows a bottom view of the same element as shown in FIG. 222.
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FIG. 226 shows a front view of the same element as shown in FIG. 222.
FIG. 227 shows a back view of the same element as shown in FIG. 222.
5 FIG. 228 shows a left side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 222.
FIG. 229 shows a right view of the same element as shown in FIG. 222.
FIG. 230 shows a top view of a hinge element with a sliding element compatible
with "T-slot
10 structure" framing elements.
FIG.23I shows a front perspective view of the same element as shown in FIG.
230.
FIG. 232 shows a back perspective view of the same element as shown in FIG.
230.
FIG. 233 shows a front view of the same element as shown in FIG. 230.
FIG. 234 shows a back view of the same element as shown in FIG. 230.
FIG. 235 shows a left view of the same element as shown in FIG. 230.
FIG. 236 shows a right view of the same element as shown in FIG. 230.
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FIG. 237 shows side view of a t-slot structure compatible with the element
shown in FIG. 230.
FIG. 238 shows a top view of a t-slot structure compatible with the element
shown in 237.
FIG. 239 shows a perspective view of a t-slot structure compatible with the
element shown in
FIG. 237.
FIG. 240 shows a perspective view of an assemblage of both a t-slot structure
and hinge element
to shown in FIG. 237.
FIG. 241 shows an exploded view of the same elements as shown in FIG. 237.
FIG. 242 shows a perspective view of the bottom portion of the electrically
conductive square
planar element as shown in FIG. 256.
FIG. 243 shows side view of same element as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 244 shows top view of same element as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 245 shows bottom view of same element as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 246 shows a top perspective view of the same element as shown in FIG. 242
showing the
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32
exterior portion on top.
FIG. 247 shows a side view of same element as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 248 shows a top view of same element as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 249 shows a bottom view of same element as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 250 shows a perspective view of the center section of the element shown
in FIG. 256.
FIG. 251 shows a side view of the same element as that shown in FIG. 250.
FIG. 252 shows a top view of the same element as that shown in FIG. 250.
FIG. 253 shows a bottom view of the same element as that shown in FIG. 250.
FIG. 254 shows a perspective view of the conducting elements of the circuit
board shown in
FIG. 253.
FIG. 255 shows a top view of the same elements shown in FIG. 254.
FIG. 256 shows a perspective view of the electrical junction/component housing
square planar
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hinged element.
FIG. 257 shows a perspective exploded view of the element in FIG. 256.
FIG. 258 shows a top view of the junction hub inserted into the center
section/ orifice of the
electric junction/component housing planar element as shown in FIG. 256.
FIG. 259 is a side view of the same element shown in FIG. 258.
FIG. 260 is a perspective view of the same element shown in FIG. 258.
FIG. 261 is a perspective view of the bottom section of the battery/electrical
component
housing rectangular planar element shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 262 is a side view of the same element shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 263 is a front back view of the same element shown in FIG. 100 and in
FIG. 280.
FIG. 264 is a top view of the same element shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 265 is a bottom view of the same element shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 266 is a perspective view of the top section of a battery housing
rectangular planar element
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34
shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 267 is a side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 268 is a front and back of the same element as shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 269 is a top of the same element as shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 270 is a bottom of the same element as shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 271 is a top perspective view of the center section conducting element
circuit board of
element shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 272 is a side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 271.
FIG. 273 is a front and back view of the same element in FIG. 271.
FIG. 274 is a top view of the same element as in FIG. 271.
FIG. 275 is a bottom view of the same element shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 276 is a perspective view of a "male" conducting element illustrated in
FIG. 280.
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FIG. 277 is a top view of the same element as shown in FIG. 276.
FIG. 278 is a perspective view of a "female" conducting element illustrated in
FIG. 280.
5
FIG. 279 is a top view of the same element shown in FIG. 278.
FIG. 280 is a perspective view of the rectangular battery/electrical component
housing.
10 FIG. 281 is an exploded perspective view of the rectangular hattery/
electric component
housing.
FIG. 282 shows an isometric view of a connecting element which can be inserted
into the orifice
located on the face sections of planar elements.
FIG. 283 shows an isometric back side of the same element as shown in FIG.
282.
FIG. 284 shows a top view of the same element as shown in FIG. 282.
FIG. 285 shows a bottom view of the same element as shown in FIG. 282.
FIG. 286 shows a back view of the same element as shown in FIG. 282.
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36
FIG. 287 shows a front view of the same element as shown in FIG. 282.
FIG. 288 shows a right side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 282.
FIG. 289 shows a left side view of the same element as shown in FIG. 282.
DETAILED SPECIFICATION
The device of the present invention provides a construction system shown in
FIGS. 1-
135 that uses a comb connector element in combination with flat or generally
planar polygonal
shapes such as, but not limited to, triangles, squares, rectangles, pentagons,
hexagons,
heptagons, octagons, and so on. The invention can be used on a small scale as
a toy or on a
larger scale to build structures such as, but not limited to, houses,
outhouses, stables, and office
buildings, among others.
The present invention is directed to at least one comb connector element in
combination
with generally planar polygonal shapes such as, but not limited to, triangles,
squares, rectangles,
pentagons, hexagons, heptagons, and octagons.
A plurality of comb connector elements and polygonal shapes can be used to
build three
dimensional shapes such as polyhedrons, e.g., a dodecahedron and an octagonal
prism.
The planar polygonal shapes can be regular or irregular polygonal flat or
substantially flat
CA 02948966 2016-11-18
37
shapes. The comb connector elements connect to the edges of the planar
polygonal
shapes.
The construction system uses at least one comb connector element in
combination with
flat or generally planar polygonal members having polygonal shapes of various
types.
Preferably, each of the polygonal members have a plurality of such comb
connector elements.
The comb connector elements connect to the edges of the planar polygonal
shapes. Each
comb connector has at least one pair of connector members. Each connector
member has a
proximal end connected to the polygonal member, and a distal end. Each
connector member
having a face portion that includes a recess extending from a central region
of the face portion.
The recess extends to the distal end of the face member.
In additional to the aforementioned planar polygonal members, there are other
construction elements that are not substantially planar or polygonal. Further,
the polygonal
members are not necessarily planar, and can have three dimensional extent.
Additionally, the
polygonal members can include empty interior regions which can include pairs
of the comb
connector members.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a decagonal planar element 10. The element 10
has a plurality
of connector pairs 14 (each composed of connector elements 14A and 14B shown
in greater
detail in FIGS. 110-117), which together form a comb connector. The element 10
has a body 12
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38
having grill-like features, a central aperture 16, and a gap 18 to accommodate
male element
connections and to provide docking room.
Hereafter, all features in the following figures having the connector pairs
similar to pairs 14 are
understood to be comb connectors. Also, the gaps in the following figures
similar to gap 18
will be understood to accommodate male element connections.
FIG. 2 is a top elevational view of the element 10 of FIG. 1
FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the element 10 of FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is a top view of a hexagonal planar element 20. The element 20 has a
plurality of
connector pairs 22 (each composed of connector elements 14A and 14B shown in
greater detail
in FIGS. 110-117), which together form a comb connector. The element 20 has a
body 24
having grill-like features, and a gap 26 to accommodate male element
connections and to
provide docking room.
The grill-like features of the body 24 are able to accommodate connection to
other elements,
such as the stick-like element 340 of FIGS. 125-128, and other grill-like
features of other such
elements.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the element 20 of FIG. 4.
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39
FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the element 20 of FIG. 4.
FIG. 7 is a front/back view of the element 20 of FIG. 4.
FIG. 8 is a top view of an octagonal planar element 30. The element 30 has a
plurality of
connector pairs 32 (each composed of connector elements 14A and 14B shown in
greater detail
in FIGS. 110-117), which together form a comb connector. The element 30 has a
body 34
having grill-like features, and a gap 36 to accommodate male element
connections and to
to provide docking room.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the element 30 of FIG. 8.
FIG. 10 is a front/back elevational view of the element 30 of FIG. 8.
FIG. 11 is a side view of the element 30 of FIG. 8.
FIG. 12 is a top view of a pentagonal planar element 40. The element 40 has a
plurality of
connector pairs 42 (each composed of connector elements 14A and 14B shown in
greater detail
in FIGS. 110-117), which together form a comb connector. The element 40 has a
body 44
having grill-like features, and a gap 46 to accommodate male element
connections and to
provide docking room.
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FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the element 40 of FIG. 12.
FIG. 14 is a front/back elevational view of the element 40 of FIG. 12.
5
FIG. 15 is a side view of the element 40 of FIG. 12.
FIG. 16 is a top/bottom view of a rectangular element 50. The element 50 has a
plurality of
connector pairs 52 (each composed of connector elements 14A and 14B shown in
greater detail
10 in FIGS. 110-117), which together form a comb connector. The element 50
has a body 54, and
a ledge 56. It also includes a gap (unnumbered) similar to the preceding
figures, to
accommodate male element connections and to provide docking room.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the element 50 of FIG. 16.
FIG. 18 is a front/back elevational view of the element 50 of FIG. 16.
FIG. 19 is a side view of the element 50 of FIG. 16.
FIG. 20 is a top/bottom view of a rhombus planar clement 60. The element 60
has a plurality of
connector pairs 62 (each composed of connector elements I4A and 14B shown in
greater detail
in FIGS. 110-117), which together form a comb connector. The element 60 has a
body 64
CA 02948966 2016-11-18
41
having grill-like features, and a gap 66 to accommodate male element
connections and to
provide docking room.
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the element 60 of FIG. 20.
FIG. 22 is a front/back view of the clement 60 of FIG. 20.
FIG. 23 is a side view of the element 60 of FIG. 20.
FIG. 24 is a top view of a square planar element 70. The element 70 has a
plurality of connector
pairs 72 (each composed of connector elements 14A and 14B shown in greater
detail in FIGS.
110-117), which together form a comb connector. The element 70 has a body 74
having grill-
like features, and a gap 76 to accommodate male element connections and to
provide docking
MOM.
FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the element 70 of FIG. 24.
FIG. 26 is a front/back elevational view of the element 70of FIG. 24.
FIG. 27 is a side view of the element 70 of FIG. 24.
FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a hexagonal male connector element 80. The
element 80 has a
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42
body 84, a ridge 86 surrounding a central aperture 88 (shown in FIG. 29) and a
plurality of
male connectors 82. Each of the male connectors 82 is adapted to be received
between the pairs
of connector members which have been described hereinabove. The element 80
also includes
the cross-shaped aperture 88 there through to receive other connecting members
described
further herein below.
FIG. 29 is a top/bottom view of the element 80 of FIG. 28.
FIG. 30 is a side elevational view of the element 80 of FIG. 28.
HG. 31 is a perspective view of a four male connector element 90. The element
90 has a body
94, a ridge 96 surrounding a central aperture 98 (shown in FIG. 32) and a
plurality of male
connectors 92. Each of the male connectors 92 is adapted to be received
between the pairs of
connector members which have been described hereinabove. The element 90 also
includes the
cross-shaped aperture 98 there through to receive other connecting members
described further
herein below.
FIG. 32 is a top/bottom view of the element 90 of FIG. 31.
FIG. 33 is a side elevational view of the element 90 of FIG. 31.
FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a short element 100, which is a two-sided
comb connector.
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43
The element 100 has a body 104 and connector elements 102 (each composed of
connector
elements 14A and 14B shown in greater detail in FIGS. 110-117).
FIG. 35 is another perspective view of the element 100 of FIG. 34.
FIG. 36 is a top/bottom view of the element 100 of FIG. 34.
FIG. 37 is a front/back view of the element 100 of FIG. 34.
FIG. 38 is a side view of the element 100 of FIG. 34.
FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a wheel element 110. The element 110 has a
curved side 114,
connector elements 112, and a body 116.
HG. 40 is another perspective view of the element 110 of FIG. 39.
FIG. 41 is a top/bottom view of the element 110 of FIG. 39.
FIG. 42 is a front/back view of the element 110 of FIG. 39.
FIG. 43 is a side view of the element 110 of FIG. 39.
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44
FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a triangular element 120. As shown in FIG.
46, element 120
has connector pairs 126, a central aperture 124, and a body 122.
FIG. 45 is another perspective view of the element 120 of FIG. 44.
FIG. 46 is a top/bottom view of the element 120 of FIG. 44.
FIG. 47 is a front view of the element 120 of FIG. 44.
FIG. 48 is a back view of the element 120 of FIG. 44.
FIG. 49 is a perspective view of a two-sided female connector element 130. The
element 130
(as shown in FIG. 51) includes connector pairs 132, a body 136, and ends 134.
FIG. 50 is another perspective view of the element 130 of FIG. 49.
FIG. 51 is a top/bottom view of the element 130 of FIG. 49.
FIG. 52 is a side view of the element 130 of FIG. 49.
FIG. 53 is a front/back view of the element 130 of FIG. 49.
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FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a long two sided female connector element
140. The element
140 includes connector pairs 142, a body 146, and ends 144.
FIG. 55 is another perspective view of the element 140 of FIG. 54.
5
FIG. 56 is a side view of the element 140 of FIG. 54.
FIG. 57 is a top/bottom view of the element 140 of FIG. 54.
10 FIG. 58 is a front/back view of the element 140 of FIG. 54.
FIG. 59 is a perspective view of a triangular planar element 150. The element
150 has an
exterior comb connector having connector pairs 152 and an interior comb
connector having
connector pairs (unnumbered) projecting from interior wall 154 which surrounds
an aperture
IS 156.
FIG. 60 is another perspective view of the element 150 of FIG. 59.
FIG. 61 is a top/bottom view of the element 150 of FIG. 59.
FIG. 62 is a back view of the element 150 of FIG. 59.
CA 02948966 2016-11-18
46
FIG. 63 is a front view of the element 150 of FIG. 59.
FIG. 64 is a perspective view of a square planar element 160. The element 160
has an exterior
comb connector having connector pairs 162 and an interior comb connector
having connector
pairs (unnumbered) projecting from interior wall 166 which surrounds an
aperture 168. The
element 160 has a gap 164 to accommodate male element connections and to
provide docking
room.
FIG. 65 is a top/bottom view of the element 160 of FIG. 64.
FIG. 66 is a side view of the element 160 of FIG. 64.
FIG. 67 is a perspective view of an angle locking hinge stop element 170. The
element 170 has
a plurality of connector pairs 172 (each composed of connector elements 14A
and 14B shown in
greater detail in FIGS. 110-117), which together form a comb connector. The
element 170 has a
body 174, and a stiffener member 176 disposed on the body 174.
The element 170 serves as a brake and limits angular movement between two comb
connectors.
Element 170 therefore limits bending.
FIG. 68 is another perspective view of the element 170 of FIG. 67.
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47
FIG. 69 is a top/bottom view of the element 170 of FIG. 67.
FIG. 70 is a front/back view of the element 170 of FIG. 67.
FIG. 71 is a side view of the element 170 of FIG. 67.
FIG. 72 is a perspective view of a hermaphroditic hinge connector element 180.
The element
180 provides a pinless hinge wherein each comb connector element has both male
and female
elements in the body of the comb connector. The element 180 has a body 184 and
pairs of
connector members 182.
FIG. 73 is another perspective view of the element 180 of FIG. 72.
FIG. 74 is a top/bottom view of the element 180 of FIG. 72.
FIG. 75 is a front view of the element 180 of FIG. 72.
FIG. 76 is a back view of the element of FIG. 72.
FIG. 77 is a perspective view of a unity block element 190. The element 190
has comb
connectors 192, a first body portion 194, a second body portion 196, and pin
female orifices
198.
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48
FIG. 78 is another perspective view of the element 190 of FIG. 77.
FIG. 79 is a top/bottom view of the element 190 of FIG. 77.
FIG. 80 is a front/hack view of the element 190 of FIG. 77.
FIG. 81 is a front/back view of the element 190 of FIG. 77.
FIG. 82 is a perspective view of a lock element 200. The lock element 200 is
used by inserting
it into the hinge connection between two female-to-female connections. It
limits the angular
motion (i.e. the bending moment) of these female-to-female connections. The
element 200 has
a curved side 204 and two projecting male members 202.
FIG. 83 is another perspective view of the lock element 200 of FIG. 82,
according to the present
invention.
FIG. 84 is another perspective view of the element 200 of FIG. 83.
FIG. 85 is a front view of the element 200 of FIG. 82.
FIG. 86 is a back view of the element 200 of FIG. 82.
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49
FIG. 87 is a perspective view of a utility block element 210. The element 210
has comb
connectors 212, a central aperture 219, a first body portion 214, a second
body portion 216,
cross-shaped apertures 218, and pin female orifices 217. The apertures 218 are
intended to
receive the elements 300 (described hereunder).
FIG. 88 is another perspective view of the element 210 of FIG. 87.
FIG. 89 is a top/bottom view of the element 210 of FIG. 87.
FIG. 90 is a front/back view of the element 210 of FIG. 87.
FIG. 91 is a side view of the element 210 of FIG. 87.
.. FIG. 92 is a perspective view of an angular element 220 having a 120 degree
angle. The
element 220 has comb connectors 222, an angled bend 224, and a body 226.
FIG. 93 is another perspective view of the element 220 of FIG. 92.
.. FIG. 93 is a top/bottom view of the element 220 of FIG. 92.
FIG. 94 is a front view of the element 220 of FIG. 92.
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FIG. 95 is a front view of the element 220 of FIG. 92.
FIG. 96 is a back of the element 220 of FIG. 92.
5
FIG. 97 is a perspective view of an angular element 230 having a 135 degree
angle. The
element 230 has comb connectors 232, and an angled bend 236.
FIG. 98 is another perspective view of the element 230 of FIG. 97.
FIG. 99 is a top/bottom view of the element 230 of FIG. 97.
FIG. 100 is a front view of the element 230 of FIG. 97.
FIG. 101 is a back view of the element 230 of FIG. 97.
FIG. 102 illustrates a perspective view of a chain-style connection wherein
element 90 connects
two elements 100 which are two-sided comb connectors.
FIG. 103 is an assembly view of the connection of FIG. 103.
FIG. 104 is a perspective view of a four connection wherein element 80
connects two elements
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5]
70 which are comb connectors.
FIG. 105 is a perspective view of a square style connection, wherein element
90 connects two
elements 70.
FIG. 106 is a perspective view of the male connector 90 with a pin element
300. The pin
element 300 has a cross-shaped body.
FIG. 107 is an assembly view of the male connector 90 with the pin element 300
of FIG. 106.
FIG. 108 is a perspective view of a female-to-female connection between two of
the elements
70. There is a space at the connection where the lock member can be inserted.
FIG. 109 is a perspective view of the female-to-female connection of FIG. 105.
FIG. 110 is a perspective view of a connector pair 14 having connector members
14A and 14B.
The connector member 14B shows an outer periphery 1401, and a beveled side
1402 leading up
to the periphery 1401. The beveling allows for easy slide entry of the male
elements.
The connector member 14B also shows an exterior side wall 1403, a curved tip
1404 of the side
wall 1403. The curving accommodates the hinge action of the locked elements
and also the
range of motion of the female-to-female connection. A recessed portion 1405 is
also shown,
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52
along with a ridge 1406 having a side wall 1407. The side wall 1407 is a brake
designed to
prevent the accidental overshooting of the nesting of the low stress pinless
hinge. The ridge
1406 also serves as a secondary higher tension inner hinge when the male
element is forced to
cross over it. The member 14A has a similar ridge but in an opposed direction;
the two opposed
directions of the ridge walls function in a positive manner, and do not allow
the male element to
easily escape once locked into position.
FIG. 111 is another perspective view of the pair of connector members 14A and
14B of FIG.
110.
FIG. 112 is an elevational view of one face of one of pair of connector
members 14A and 14B
of FIG. 110.
FIG. 113 is a front view of the pair of connector members 14A and 14B of FIG.
110.
FIG. 114 is a sectional view taken along line X-X of FIG. 112.
FIG. 115 is a sectional view taken along line Y-Y of FIG. 113.
FIG. 116 is a top elevational view of the pair of connector members 14A and
14B of FIG. 110.
FIG. 117 is an enlarged view corresponding to FIG. 111.
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53
FIG. 118 is a perspective view of a pin connection between two elements, which
form a utility
block structure for either closed or indefinite structures. The pinned
connection can be a fixed
or hinged joint.
FIG. 119 is an assembly view 240 showing insertion of a pin (unnumbered) into
a hole in one of
the unity block elements. This assembly can configure the comb connectors of
other planar
elements, and also offers hinging elements at an angle of 90 degrees to the
comb connector
hinge.
FIG. 120 is a perspective view of a hermaphroditic connector element 250. It
has both male and
female elements on its blades.
FIG. 121 is a top elevational view of the hermaphroditic connector element 250
of FIG. 120.
FIG. 122 is a side elevational view of the hermaphroditic connector element
250 of FIG. 120.
FIG. 122 shows a female groove (unnumbered) at the right-most end, and a male
boss
(unnumbered) at the left-most end.
FIG. 123 is a perspective view of the connection of two hermaphroditic
connector elements 250
of FIG. 120.
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54
FIG. 124 is an assembly view of the connection of the two hermaphroditic
connector elements
250 of FIG. 123.
FIG. 125 is a perspective view of a rectilinear structure element 340, which
is a stick-like
element.
FIG. 126 is a front elevational view of the stick-like element 340 of FIG.
125.
FIG. 127 is a side elevational view of the stick-like element 340 of FIG. 125.
FIG. 128 is an end elevational view of the stick-like element 340 of FIG. 125.
FIG. 129 is an assembly view showing use of the stick connector 340 of FIGS.
125-128 to
connect several elements 260.
FIG. 130 is a schematic view of the pin 92 and ridge 1407 connection of two
corresponding
ones of a pair of connector members 14A and 14B.
FIG. 131 is a schematic view of the insertion of male elements 92 into
respective ones of a
plurality of pairs of connector members 14.
FIG. 132 is a schematic view showing a zipper-like unlocking of the
connections of the male
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elements 92 of FIG. 131 from respective ones of a plurality of pairs of
connector members 14
of FIG. 131.
FIG. 133 is an enlarged view, similar to FIG. 130, showing a different type of
locking
5 engagement of the male elements 92 behind the ridge members 1407.
FIG. 134 is a schematic view of the insertion of male elements 92 into
respective ones of a
plurality of pairs of connector members 14, for the locking arrangement shown
in FIG. 133.
This is a stressed connection in that the male elements have overshot the
ridges 1407 and are
10 locked into place behind them.
FIG. 135 is a schematic view showing the ridge members 1407 in overlapping
side view,
forming a nearly circular form 600, to illustrate the oppositely directed
connecting scheme
according to the present invention.
FIG. 136 is a schematic view similar to FIG. 135, showing a plurality of pairs
of the ridge
members 1407 and male elements 92 in side view, to illustrate the oppositely
directed
connecting scheme of the present invention.
The principle of the pinless hinge schematically shown in FIG. 136, and as
embodied in various
ones of the preceding figures, is that approximately half of all male bosses
(elements)
are free to escape in one direction and the other half are free to escape in
the opposite
CA 02948966 2016-11-18
56
direction. But since they are all connected at the base, they are all thus
frozen creating the
pinless hinging action or lock. It is a kind of mechanical trap and it is
accomplished with
semicircular traps aligned at odds from each other. These counteracting semi-
circles
create an overall effect of complete circles.
The interior ridges behind the female recesses serve two primary functions
(but the
design of the hinge can work without this ridge). The ridge serves as a brake
to keep the
male boss from over shooting the recess, but if it does overshoot the recess
and jump over
this ridge, the bosses are re-trapped in a higher pressure nesting cycle and
remain hinges,
to now fulcrummed or pinned between two counteracting positive ridges. This
is shown clearly in
FIG. 133, for example.
Regarding the operating principles of the connections, the aforementioned
hinge elements can
be connected together in a comb like fashion because the gap provided for the
bending moment
of the individual connector members is a wide enough channel to receive a comb
element from
another female connector. The female to female connections work by a pressure
hold and are
not true hinges- except in the case of the hermaphroditic connector, which has
male bosses and
female recesses that allow for a snapping pinless hinge without the male
secondary element.
The aforementioned hinge, being connected from opposed directions, therefore
has a 50-50 built
in redundancy that is stronger and relatively more reliable than other types
of hinge.
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57
The special advantages to this construction are that it allows for female to
female non-hinge
assembly (hinged if considering a hermaphrodite comb connector), ease of
fabrication in
economical two part molds, two snapping and locking sequences (using the
female channel to
trap the male boss and the ridge to trap the boss).
The hinge of the present invention as shown and described hereinabove has an
important
advantageous feature in that it can be fabricated economically in a simple two
part mold without
the aid of more costly molding devices having specialized features like slides
and pulls which
substantially increase the cost of tooling the mold. This is because the
hinge, as conceived, has
no undercuts that would hamper the clean symmetrical opening of a two part
mold.
FIG. 137 is an isometric view of a plurality of square planar elements 1371
(shown in FIG.
138) which is also similar to ones of the foregoing embodiments, and which is
shown in
detail in the following FIGS. 138-142 below, arranged into a cube assembly
1370.
FIG. 138 is an exploded view of three square planar elements 1371 according to
the
present invention, and which are also used in the assembly 1370 of FIG. 137.
FIG. 139 is a top isometric view of the square planar element 1371 of FIG.
138.
FIG. 140 is a bottom isometric view of the square planar element 1371 of FIG.
138.
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58
FIG. 141 is a top view of the square planar element 1371 of FIG. 138.
FIG. 142 is a side view of the square planar element 1371 of FIG. 138.
FIG. 143 is a perspective top view of a hexagonal planar element 1430, having
a male connector
element 1431 and a female connector portion 1432 which is composed of a pair
of cooperating
female elements. This structure is similar to that of FIGS. 130-135 described
hereinabove
which have male elements 92 and a female connector portion 14. The connection
details of the
elements 1431 and 1432 are similar to that shown in greater detail in the
above-mentioned
to FIGS. 110-117.
FIG. 144 is a perspective bottom view of the same element as FIG. 143.
FIG. 145 is a top elevation view, which is also the same in bottom view, of
the same element
1430 as in FIG. 143. FIG. 145 also shows five openings 1433 through the
element 1430.
FIG. 146 is a side view of the same element 1430 as FIG. 143.
FIG. 147 is a side view of the front and back of the element 1430 of FIG. 143.
FIG. 148 is a top isometric view of a pentagonal planar element 1480,
according to the present
invention, having a female element 1482 and a male element 1481, similar to
that described in
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59
the preceding embodiments.
FIG. 149 is bottom isometric views of the same element 1480 as shown in FIG.
148.
FIG. 150 is a top and bottom view of the same element 1480 as shown in HG.
148, and also
shows a central opening 1483.
FIG. 151 is a side view of the pentagonal planar element 1480 in FIG. 148,
according to the
present invention,
FIG. 152 is a front/back view of the same element 1480 as shown in FIG. 148.
FIG. 153 is a top isometric view of a rectangular element 1530, according to
the present
invention. The element 1530 includes a female element 1532 and a male element
1531, similar
to that described in the preceding embodiments.
FIG. 154 is a bottom isometric view of the same element 1530 shown in FIG.
153.
FIG. 155 is a top/bottom view of the same element 1530 shown in FIG. 153, and
also shows a
plurality of openings 1533 therein.
FIG. 156 is a side view of the element 1530 shown in FIG. 153.
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FIG.157 is a front/back view of the same element 1530 shown in FIG. 153.
FIG. 158 is a perspective top view of a triangular element 1580 according to
the present
5 invention, having a male element 1581. The male element 1581, like the
foregoing male
elements, has a generally cylindrical shape with rounded ends, and is
connected to the body of
the element 1580 along one cylindrical side portion of the male element 1581.
As seen in FIGS.
158 and 159, the attachment of the male element 1581 to the body of the
element 1580 extends
along a periphery of approximately half, or alternatively somewhat less than
half, of the
10 perimeter of the male element 1581. In a longitudal direction along the
male element 1581, the
attachment occurs in a central region of the male element 1581 and extends
approximately half,
or alternatively somewhat less than half, of the total longitudinal length of
the male element
1581.
15 FIG. 159 is a perspective bottom view of the same element 1580 shown in
FIG. 158, and
illustrates the female element 1582. The female element 1582 is similar to
that described in the
foregoing embodiments in greater detail, and is formed by opposing walls
having recesses to
receive the rounded ends of the male element 1581. In this view, a flat bottom
wall 1583 is
shown.
FIG. 160 is a bottom view of the same view of the same element 1580 shown in
FIG. 158, and
shows a pyramidal (triangular) recess 1584.
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FIG. 161 is a top view of the same element 1580 shown in FIG. 158.
FIG. 162 is a left side view of the same element 1580 as shown in FIG. 158.
FIG. 163 is a right side view of the same element 1580 as shown in FIG. 158.
FIG. 164 is a front view of the same element 1580 as shown in FIG. 158.
FIG. 165 is a back view of the same element 1580 as shown in FIG. 158.
FIG. 166 is an isometric view of a square female connector element 1660,
according to the
present invention, having four identical female elements 1663 (shown in FIG.
167) formed by a
first arm 1661 and a second arm 1662. The female elements 1661, 1662 have
facing portions
formed similarly to the foregoing embodiments, for receiving male members (not
shown in FIG.
166).
FIG. 167 is a side view of the same element 1660 as shown in FIG. 166.
FIG. 168 is a top view of the same element 1660 as shown in FIG. 166, and also
showing a
central passage 1664 formed in the shape of an X or a plus symbol.
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FIG. 169 is an isometric view of a square male connector element 1690,
according to the
present invention, having a plurality of male members 1691 of the type already
described
hereinabove.
FIG. 170 is a side view if the same element 1690 as shown in FIG. 169, having
a central raised
portion 1692.
FIG. 171 is a top view of the same element 1690 as shown in FIG. 169, having a
central
opening 1693 which is generally X-shaped.
FIG. 172 is an isometric view of a Y shaped element 1720, according to the
present invention,
having a female element 1722 and a male element 1721, similar to that
described in the
preceding embodiments.
IS FIG. 173 is a bottom isometric view of the same element 1720 as shown in
FIG. 172, showing a
plurality of openings 1723 therethrough.
FIG. 174 is a top view of the same element 1720 as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 175 is a bottom view of the same element 1720 as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 176 is a front of the same element 1720 as shown in FIG. 172.
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FIG. 177 is a back of the same element 1720 as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 178 is a left side of the same element 1720 as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 179 is a right side of the same element 1720 as shown in FIG. 172.
FIG. 180 shows an assembly 1800 of male elements and female elements the types
shown in the
above-described FIGS. 166 through 171 (which depict female elements 1660 and
male elements
1690).
FIG. 181 shows an exploded view of the assembly 1800 of aligned male and
female hinge
elements forming four vertically aligned edges, that is, the assembly 1800 can
serve as a hinge
between various members/assemblies connected to respective ones of the
vertically-aligned
male and female elements, as shown in FIG. 180. The FIGS. 180 and 181
illustrate how
assemblies or arrays of male and female connecting elements can be constructed
in accordance
with the present invention. This view also shows a n elongated member 1801
having an X-
shaped (or plus-symbol shaped) cross-section, that fits through
correspondingly shaped
openings (described hereinabove) in the male and female elements, to keep them
in alignment.
FIG. 182 is a front perspective view of a single connecting element 1820 with
a dimensional
plate connecting element, i.e. the flat portion connecting a female portion
1822 with a male
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portion 1821, for frictional insertion into orifices located on planar
elements. The connecting
element 1820 is also referred to hereinbelow as a hermaphroditic connector
because it has both
a male portion and a female portion side-by-side facing in the same direction
along one side of
the dimensional plate mentioned above.
FIG. 183 is a back perspective view of the same element 1820 as shown in FIG.
182.
FIG. 184 is a top view of the same element 1820 as shown in FIG. 182. Here,
the female
element 1822 is shown as having a first arm having an outer side 1822a that is
generally flat,
and an inner side 1822b having a female slot portion of the type described in
detail in the
foregoing.
FIG. 185 is a bottom view of the same element 1820 as shown in FIG. 182.
FIG. 186 is a back view of the same element 1820 as shown in FIG. 182.
FIG. 187 is a front view of the same element 1820 as shown in FIG. 182.
FIG. 188 is a right side view of the same element 1820 as shown in FIG. 182.
FIG. 189 is a left side view of the same element 1820 as shown in FIG. 182.
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FIG. 190 shows a back perspective view of a zipper element 1900 comprising a
"slider body"
having a pull-tab 1901, a crown 1902, and a sliding body 1903. The element
1900 is capable of
zipping "molded teeth" (standard zipper nomenclature) which molded teeth
incorporate the .
above-mentioned hermaphroditic connecting elements as previously shown.
5
FIG. 191 shows a front perspective view of the same element 1900 as shown in
FIG. 190.
FIG. 192 shows a top view of the same element 1900 as shown in FIG. 190.
10 FIG. 193 shows a bottom view of the same element 1900 as shown in FIG.
190.
FIG. 194 shows side view of the same element 1900 as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 195 shows a front view of the same element 1900 as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 196 shows a rear view of the element 1900 as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 197 shows a back perspective view of slider body element 1900 as shown in
HG. 190.
FIG. 198 shows a front perspective view of slider body element 1900 as shown
in FIG. 190.
FIG. 199 shows a top view of slider body element 1900 as shown in FIG. 190.
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FIG. 200 shows a bottom view of slider body element 1900 as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 201 shows a side view of slider body element 1900 as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 202 shows a front view of slider body element 1900 as shown in FIG. 190.
FIG. 203 shows a back view of slider body element 1900 as shown in FIG.190.
FIG. 204 shows a back perspective view of a cable harness 2040 with an
insulation/external
covered section 2044 and an exposed non-insulated section indicated in FIGS.
204 and 205 by
arms 2041, 2042, and 2043. The arms 2041, 2042, 2043 each are comprised of
linked members
that are pivotable similar to links in a chain.
FIG. 205 shows a front perspective view of the same element 2040 shown in FIG.
204.
FIG. 206 shows a top view of the cable harness 2040 with the
insulation/external covered
section and exposed un-insulated section discussed above.
FIG. 207 shows a front view of the cable harness 2040 shown in FIG. 204.
FIG. 208 shows a back view of the cable harness 2040 shown in FIG. 204.
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FIG. 209 shoes a left side view of the cable harness 2040 of FIG. 204.
FIG. 210 shows a right side view of the cable harness 2040.
FIG. 211 shows a front overall view of a chain assembly 2110 configured into a
flexible ring,
the assembly 2110 being formed by a plurality of link members 2011.
FIG. 212 shows a perspective view of the assembly 2110 with link members 2011
of FIG. 211.
FIG. 213 shows a side view of the assembly 2110 shown in FIG. 211.
FIG. 214 shows a front perspective view of a hinge element 2140 with a flange
2142 with
orifices 2141 allowing for bolted, screwed, nailed, welded, or other
attachments for connection
to various other surface elements (not shown).
FIG. 215 shows a back perspective view of the same element 2140 as shown in
FIG. 214.
FIG. 216 shows atop view of the same element 2140 as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 217 shows a bottom view of the same element 2140 as shown in FIG. 214.
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FIG. 218 shows a front view of the same element 2140 as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 219 shows a back view of the same element 2140 as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 220 shows the left view of the same element 2140 as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 221 shows the right view of the same element 2140 as shown in FIG. 214.
FIG. 222 shows a front perspective view of a hinge element 2220 incorporating
a "clip" element
formed by portions 2221, 2222 for application along panels, boards, windows,
plates, or any
element commensurate with this embodiment of the invention.
FIG. 223 shows a back perspective view of the same element 2220 as shown in
FIG. 222.
FIG. 224 shows a top view of the same element 2220 as shown in FIG. 222.
FIG. 225 shows a bottom view of the same element 2220 as shown in FIG. 222.
FIG. 226 shows a front view of the same element 2220 as shown in FIG. 222.
FIG. 227 shows a back view of the same element 2220 as shown in FIG. 222.
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FIG. 228 shows a left side view of the same element 2220 as shown in FIG. 222.
FIG. 229 shows a right view of the same element 2220 as shown in FIG. 222.
FIG. 230 shows a top view of a hinge element 2300 with a sliding element 2301
compatible
with "T-slot structure" framing elements. Male elements 2303 are shown, along
with female
elements 2302, in alternating arrangement.
FIG.231 shows a front perspective view of the same element 2300 as shown in
FIG. 230.
FIG. 232 shows a back perspective view of the same element 2300 as shown in
FIG. 230.
FIG. 233 shows a front view of the same element 2300 as shown in FIG. 230.
FIG. 234 shows a back view of the same element 2300 as shown in FIG. 230.
FIG. 235 shows a left view of the same element 2300 as shown in FIG. 230.
FIG. 236 shows a right view of the same element 2300 as shown in FIG. 230.
FIG. 237 shows a side view of a T-slot structure 2370 compatible with the
element shown in
FIG. 230.
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FIG. 238 shows a top view of the T-slot structure 2370 of FIG. 237, showing
four arms 2371,
2372, 2373, 2374 (shown in FIG. 239) having arrow-head shaped tips.
5 FIG. 239 shows a perspective view of the T-slot structure 2370, described
above.
FIG. 240 shows a perspective view of an assemblage 2400 of both a T-slot
structure and a hinge
element of the type shown in FIG. 237.
10 FIG. 241 shows an exploded view of the same elements collectively
indicated as 240.
FIG. 242 shows a perspective view of a bottom portion 2578 of an electrically
conductive
square planar element 2560 as shown in FIG. 256.
15 FIG. 243 shows side view of same element 2578 as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 244 shows top view of same element 2578 as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 245 shows bottom view of same element 2578 as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 246 shows a top perspective view of the same element 2578 as shown in
FIG. 242
showing the exterior portion on top.
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FIG. 247 shows a side view of same element 2578 as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 248 shows a top view of same element 2578 as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 249 shows a bottom view of same element 2578 as shown in FIG. 242.
FIG. 250 shows a perspective view of a center section element 2574 of the
assembly shown in
FIG. 256.
FIG. 251 shows a side view of the same element 2574 as that shown in FIG. 250.
FIG. 252 shows a top view of the same element 2574 as that shown in FIG. 250.
FIG. 253 shows an assembly 2530 showing a bottom view of the same element 2574
as that
shown in FIG. 250, and conductive arms of FIG. 254.
FIG. 254 shows a perspective view of a layer 2576 formed by a plurality of
conducting elements
of a circuit element/board shown in FIG. 253.
FIG. 255 shows a top view of the same layer 2576 shown in FIG. 254.
FIG. 256 shows a perspective view of an electrical junction/component housing
square planar
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hinged element 2560, formed by the top portion 2572 and bottom portion 2578.
FIG. 257 shows a perspective exploded view 2570 of the element 2560 of FIG.
256, showing its
layers 2572, 2574, 2576, and 2578 as discussed hereinabove.
FIG. 258 shows a top view of a junction hub 2580 inserted into the center
section/orifice of the
electric junction/component housing planar element as shown in FIG. 256.
FIG. 259 is a side view of the same element 2580 shown in HG. 258.
FIG. 260 is a perspective view of the same element 2580 shown in FIG. 258.
FIG. 261 is a perspective view of a bottom section 2819 of a
battery/electrical component
housing rectangular planar element 2810 shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 262 is a side view of the same element 2819 shown in FIG. 261 and FIG.
280.
FIG. 263 is a front back view of the same element 2819 shown in FIG. 261 and
in FIG. 280.
FIG. 264 is a top view of the same element 2819 shown in FIG. 261.
FIG. 265 is a bottom view of the same element 2819 shown in FIG. 261.
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FIG_ 266 is a perspective view of the top section 2812 of a battery housing
rectangular planar
element shown in FIG. 280.
FIG. 267 is a side view of the same element 2812 as shown in FIG. 266.
FIG. 268 is a front and back of the same element 2812 as shown in FIG. 266.
FIG. 269 is atop of the same element 2812 as shown in FIG. 266.
FIG. 270 is a bottom of the same element 2812 as shown in FIG. 266.
FIG. 271 is a top perspective view of a center section 2816 of the conducting
element circuit
board of element shown in FIG. 280.
IS FIG. 272 is a side view of the same element 2816 as shown in FIG. 271.
FIG. 273 is a front and back view of the same element 2816 of FIG. 271
FIG. 274 is a top view of the same element 2816 of FIG. 271.
FIG. 275 is a bottom view of the same element 2816 shown in FIG. 280.
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FIG. 276 is a perspective view of a "male" conducting element 2814 of the
assembly shown in
FIG. 280.
FIG. 277 is a top view of the same element 2814 as shown in FIG. 276, here
numbered as
element 2816.
FIG. 278 is a perspective view of a "female" conducting element 2818
illustrated in FIG. 280.
FIG. 279 is a top view of the same element 2818 shown in FIG. 278.
FIG. 280 is a perspective view of the rectangular battery/electrical component
housing 2810,
having a top portion 2812 and a bottom portion 2819.
FIG. 281 is an exploded perspective view of the rectangular battery/ electric
component housing
of FIG. 280, showing portions 2812, 2814, 2816, 2818, and 2819.
FIG. 282 shows an isometric view of a connecting element 2820 which can be
inserted into the
orifices located on the face sections of planar elements. The element 2820 has
male and female
elements similar to that described hereinabove with respect to the
hermaphroditic elements.
FIG. 283 shows an isometric back side of the same element 2820 as shown in
FIG. 282.
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FIG. 284 shows a top view of the same element 2820 as shown in FIG. 282.
FIG. 285 shows a bottom view of the same element 2820 as shown in FIG. 282.
5 FIG. 286 shows a back view of the same element 2820 as shown in FIG. 282.
FIG. 287 shows a front view of the same element 2820 as shown in FIG. 282.
FIG. 288 shows a right side view of the same element 2820 as shown in FIG.
282.
FIG. 289 shows a left side view of the same element 2820 as shown in FIG. 282.
20
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The invention being thus described, it will be evident that the same may be
varied in
many ways by a routineer in the applicable arts. Such variations are not to be
regarded as a
departure from the spirit and scope of the invention and all such
modifications are intended to
be included within the scope of the claims.
