Themed building toy

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention provide both a new type of building set which, while particularly attractive to girls, is suitable for use with a wide variety of themes and is fun for boys as well. A building set teaches engineering and biology concepts. The set comprises interlocking pieces that users can manipulate and use to build structures. In some embodiments, the elements use two different types of connector, one type requiring a specific orientation of the connected elements and a second type allowing the connection to be made in any orientation. In some embodiments, one connection type, preferably the fixed orientation connector, uses one or more springy element that spring out to interlock with a mating component, and the other type of connection uses a friction fit. In one embodiment, the toy components are suited for forming a tree with interlocking branches and leaf-disks. The elements appeal to girls through use of color and story line. Users can build play scapes that are coordinated through plot, and are interchangeable to inspire creativity. The current invention also employs inventive locking techniques and structural elements.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This Application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 964,184, filed Dec. 9, 2015, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application 62 / 090,292, filed Dec. 10, 2014, which are hereby incorporated by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention related to toy construction sets, and in particular, to themed construction sets oriented towards girls and boys.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Over the years, there have been developed a multitude of construction toys. Such systems typically have various elements that users can connect to each other in various ways to form structures.[0004]For example, U.S. Pat. No. 8,408,962 describes a toy construction system that includes at least one panel member having a multiplicity of female twist-lock connectors formed in a surface thereof. Female socket flexible connectors are included, each having a stem adapted with threads for receipt by the female twist-lock connectors...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent is for a building set that is designed to appeal to girls and boys using interesting themes like folklore and beautiful colors. The set is made up of interlocking pieces that users can put together to create different structures. The set includes two types of connectors that can be used in different orientations, and one of the connectors uses springy elements to lock into place. The set also allows users to create play scapes that can be easily interchanged. The technical effect of this patent is to provide a creative and engaging building set that can be used for a wide range of themes and used by both girls and boys.

Problems solved by technology

Toys for girls are not keeping up with the rapid shift in women's roles.

Play kitchens, baby dolls, and glamour dolls have their place in girls' toy collections, but limiting girls' toy collections to these specific domestic sphere toys is not realistic for today's girls.

If they are conditioned as children to be pretty, good cooks, and take care of children; then they will be wildly unprepared to take on the challenges of school and competition in the corporate specter.

Although, boys' toys are not focused at being good fathers, beauty, cooking or household duties; men nonetheless figure out these tasks as needed.

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