Interference joint finger play, construction element, construction system and assembly

Abstract

Toys, building kits, and toy assemblies including at least one finger play or fingertip toy are provided. Each fingertip toy includes a first section and a second section connected by a joint including a living hinge. Interference members of the joint interfere when the joint transitions between a first state (e.g., an extended state) and a second state (e.g., a flexed state). The first section and the second section each optionally include a first retention feature disposed on a same first side of the first section and the second section, wherein the first retention feature reversibly stabilizes the first section to the second section in the second state.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 354,187, filed on June 21, 2022, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of toys. Background Art

[0004] Foldable structures include, for example, the Hoberman sphere described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US2002 / 0083676A1. The Hoberman sphere is a constant velocity structure comprising joint links. The scissor-like joints connecting the links allow the spherical structure to be easily expanded and contracted by pulling outward or pushing the structure inward, respectively. The user can manipulate the Hoberman sphere along a continuous range between the expanded configuration and the contracted configuration. However, since all joints in the Hoberman sphere need to move when the ball transitions between states, the Hoberman sphere is limited to a single degree of freedom.

[0005] There is a need for toys that can be assembled into reconfigurable components with greater freedom and additional entertainment features. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present disclosure provides toys including decompression fidgets, building elements, building kits and assemblies. Decompression fidgets are referred to herein as "digit toys" or simply "digits" (alternatively, "links"), and the category "building elements" includes digits, links and "hubs". Building elements can be provided individually or as building kits (kits of building elements) and assembled into toy assemblies, which have many advantages over known structures.

[0007] Compared to the Hoberman ball, the toy assembly of the assembled building elements of the present disclosure has multiple degrees of freedom. That is, the user can manipulate the building elements independently. More specifically, each finger play piece or link can be individually transformed between at least a fully open configuration (i.e., a first state, in which the joints of the links are longitudinally aligned), a fully closed configuration (i.e., a second state, in which the sections of the finger play piece are substantially parallel), and an intermediate configuration between the fully open configuration and the fully closed configuration. The finger play piece provided in the present disclosure can also be flipped and / or transformed from the fully open configuration to the second closed configuration through a second intermediate configuration.

[0008] Additionally, the optional interference joint of each finger play piece stabilizes the finger play piece in the first state (longitudinally aligned state) and produces a pleasing "click" or "snap" audible and / or tactile response when manipulated between the first and second states.

[0009] The assembly of finger toys and hinges described herein has multiple degrees of freedom and can achieve different configurations that are not possible with known systems. By way of example, an assembly including six finger toys (such as the one described below) FIG. 24A to FIG. 24B The assembly 2400 of the invention produces more than 1458 different configurations. An assembly including twelve finger play pieces (such as FIG. 19A to FIG. 19D 1900) can be placed into 531,441 possible configurations. Naturally, the number of configurations continues to grow exponentially for more complex structures with a greater number of finger play pieces. Thus, when compared to conventional structures (such as the Hoberman ball), the disclosed embodiments are more versatile and provide substantially more playability.

[0010] In one aspect, the present disclosure describes a construction element referred to as a "finger play piece" that is configured to provide a tactile click or snap response to bending into different configurations. Such finger play pieces provide entertainment alone, and may optionally be provided with other finger play pieces and / or other construction elements (e.g., a "hub") to form a construction kit including a finger play piece and at least one other construction element (such as another finger play piece or a hub). In addition, the finger play piece may be connected to other finger play pieces and / or other construction elements (including a hub) to produce an assembly with many interesting characteristics. In certain embodiments, one or more finger play pieces may be fixed to other construction elements to form a complete three-dimensional assembly. In other embodiments, the finger play pieces, hubs, and other components may be provided as a construction kit of disassembled construction elements, partially assembled assemblies (e.g., a grid), or fully assembled assemblies, which the user may assemble or reassemble into different assemblies. The present disclosure provides various non-limiting examples of finger play pieces, hubs, and related assemblies.

[0011] In addition to being a channel for creative play, finger play pieces according to the present disclosure are also sensory "de-stress toys," particularly due to the tactile click / snap response they produce. De-stress toys help improve concentration, focus on tasks, and self-regulation by allowing the brain to filter out extraneous sensory information, and therefore have a wide range of applications for both children and adults. For example, de-stress toys are often used to improve listening in classroom environments, enhance concentration during business meetings, and reduce anxiety and stress.

[0012] In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a finger play piece or a fingertip toy, each of which includes a first section and a second section connected by a joint that optionally includes a living hinge, wherein interference members of the joint interfere when the joint transitions between a first state and a second state. Optionally, the first section and the second section each include a first retention feature disposed on a common first side of the first section and the second section, wherein the first retention feature reversibly retains the first section to the second section in the second state.

[0013] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a toy (e.g., a decompression toy) comprising an assembly comprising a plurality of hinges coupled to a plurality of finger play pieces, wherein each finger play piece comprises a first section and a second section connected by a joint that optionally comprises a living hinge, wherein interference members of the joint interfere when the joint transitions between a first state and a second state. Optionally, the first section and the second section each comprise a first retention feature disposed on a common first side of the first section and the second section, wherein the first retention feature reversibly retains the first section to the second section in the second state, wherein the assembly has two or more independent degrees of freedom.

[0014] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a toy (e.g., a decompression toy) comprising an assembly comprising a plurality of hinges coupled to a plurality of finger play pieces, wherein each finger play piece comprises a first section and a second section connected by a joint optionally comprising a living hinge, wherein an interference member of the joint interferes when the joint transitions between a first state and a second state. Optionally, the first section and the second section each comprise a first retention feature disposed on a common first side of the first section and the second section, wherein the first retention feature reversibly retains the first section to the second section in the second state. Optionally, the assembly is configurable between a plurality of stable closed configurations and a plurality of unstable closed configurations.

[0015] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a construction kit, the construction kit comprising a finger play piece, the finger play piece comprising a first section and a second section, the first section and the second section connected by a joint optionally comprising a living hinge, wherein an interference member of the joint interferes when the joint transitions between a first state and a second state. Optionally, the first section and the second section each comprise a first retention feature disposed on a common first side of the first section and the second section, wherein the first retention feature reversibly retains the first section to the second section in the second state, wherein the first section and the second section each comprise a hinge connection feature disposed at a distal end of the first section and the second section; and a hinge defining a plurality of finger play piece connection features disposed about the body, wherein the hinge connection features are reversibly connected to the finger play piece connection features.

[0016] The following features may be combined with any of the preceding aspects in any combination.

[0017] In any embodiment, the interference member includes interlocking ends of a first section and a second section.

[0018] In any embodiment, the interlocking ends define a socket and a protrusion.

[0019] In any embodiment, the interference member includes a plurality of links, each link extending from an end of the first segment or the second segment.

[0020] In any embodiment, the interference members interfere when the joint is in the first state.

[0021] In any embodiment, in the first state, the first segment and the second segment are longitudinally aligned, wherein in the second state, the first segment and the second segment are not longitudinally aligned.

[0022] In any embodiment, at least one of the interference members is flexible.

[0023] In any embodiment, the interference member is released from interference when the joint is transitioned out of the interference state.

[0024] In any embodiment, the interference member releases from interference when the first section and the second section form an internal angle below the buckling threshold.

[0025] In any embodiment, the interference member deforms to effect release.

[0026] In any embodiment, the release of the interference member produces an audible snap response.

[0027] In any embodiment, the release of the interference member produces a tactile snap response.

[0028] In any embodiment, the living hinge is offset from a mid-plane of at least one of the first section or the second section.

[0029] In any embodiment, the first segment and the second segment each include a second retention feature disposed on a same second side of the first segment and the second segment, wherein the second retention feature is configured to reversibly retain the first segment to the second segment.

[0030] In any embodiment, the first segment and the second segment each include a coupling feature formed as a protrusion or a recess disposed at the distal ends of the first segment and the second segment.

[0031] In any embodiment, the finger play piece further includes a third section connected to the second section by a second joint, wherein the second interference member of the second joint is configured to interfere when the second joint transitions between the first state and the second state.

[0032] In any embodiment, in each of the stable closed configurations, the plurality of finger play pieces are stable in the first state or the second state.

[0033] In any embodiment, in each of the unstable closed configurations, at least one of the plurality of finger play pieces is free to bend about the joint.

[0034] In any embodiment, the toy is configured to be turned inside out without separating any of the finger play pieces from the hinge.

[0035] In any embodiment, wherein the finger play pieces and the hinges form a grid, wherein the hinge coupling features and the finger play piece coupling features are coupled together.

[0036] In any embodiment, the hinge connection feature and the finger play piece connection feature include complementary structures, which include: a narrow slot and a tab or a ball joint and a socket.

[0037] Additional advantages will become apparent from the description below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which the element is first introduced.

[0039] Figure 1A to Figure 1B A perspective view and a detail view of a finger play piece according to one embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0040] Figure 1C to Figure 1F Shows Figure 1A Additional views of the finger play pieces.

[0041] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Various views of finger play pieces according to additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.

[0042] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C Various views of a finger play piece according to another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0043] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D Various views of a finger play piece according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0044] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D Various views of a finger play piece according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0045] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D Various views of a finger play piece according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0046] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Various views of a finger play piece according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0047] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F Components of finger play pieces in various configurations are shown according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] 9A to 9C Various views of a hub according to embodiments of the present disclosure are shown.

[0049] Fig.9D An assembly of a hinge and finger play piece according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0050] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10B An alternative connection structure between the finger play piece and the hinge is shown.

[0051] Fig.11 Another hub according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0052] Fig. 12A A hinge and finger play piece according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0053] Fig. 12B Shows Fig. 12A The hub and finger components of the play piece.

[0054] Fig.13 Yet another hub according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0055] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14E Various views of a hub according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0056] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15E Various views of a hub according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0057] FIG. 16A to FIG. 16E Various views of a hub according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0058] FIG. 17A to FIG. 17C The hub and finger play piece assemblies are shown in various configurations according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0059] 18A to 18C An assembly of a hinge and finger play pieces in various configurations is shown according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19D An assembly of a hub and finger play piece in various configurations is shown according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 20A to FIG. 20C An assembly of a hub and finger play piece in various configurations is shown according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 21A to FIG. 21E An assembly of a hub and finger play piece in various configurations is shown according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 22A to FIG. 22C An assembly of a hub and finger play piece in various configurations is shown according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 23A to FIG. 23C An assembly of a hub and finger play piece in various configurations is shown according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 24A to FIG. 24B An assembly of a hub and finger play piece in various configurations is shown according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Figure 25 to Figure 26 A grid of hinges and finger play pieces is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 27A to FIG. 27E An assembly of a hub and finger play piece in various configurations is shown according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 28A to FIG. 28D An assembly of a hub and finger play piece in various configurations is shown according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 29A to FIG. 29E Various views of a multi-joint finger play piece according to an embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0070] FIG. 30A to FIG. 30E Various views of a multi-joint finger play piece according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure are shown.

[0071] Fig.31An assembly of a hinge and a finger play piece according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] Figure 1A to Figure 1B A representative building element of the present disclosure (referred to herein as a fidget toy or finger play piece 102) is shown. The finger play piece 102 is configured to perform a variety of functions. First, taken individually, the finger play piece 102 is a decompression toy or toy. Second, the finger play piece 102 can be a building element of a construction kit (i.e., a kit of two or more building elements). Third, the finger play piece 102 can be a link in an assembly of building elements, i.e., a link in a decompression toy. "Finger play piece" is used herein to describe a structure suitable for all such purposes.

[0073] The finger play piece 102 includes a first section 104, a second section 106, and a joint 108 disposed between the first section 104 and the second section 106. The joint 108 includes a hinge 110 extending between the first section 104 and the second section 106 and coupling the first section to the second section. The joint 108 also includes an end 112 of the first section 104 and an end 114 of the second section 106. The joint 108 is an "interference joint" as described below; however, other embodiments of the construction elements of the present disclosure utilize non-interference joints. See, e.g. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D .exist Figure 1A , hinge 110 is a living hinge formed by two bridging strips 132a, 132b made of a certain material, which connect the ends 112, 114. Strips 132a, 132b are also offset from the longitudinal centerline 130, so that the joint 108 can be bent more easily in one direction (i.e., from the first state to the second state). In other embodiments, hinge 110 may have a construction different from a living hinge (e.g., an internal hinge sandwiched between two halves of the finger play piece as described in International Patent Publication No. PCT / IB2021 / 061868 to Hoenigschmid, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some embodiments, hinge 110 is formed integrally with the interference member of joint 108, which will be described below.

[0074] During use, the user can transition the finger play piece 102 between various states by bending the finger play piece 102 at the joint 108. The present disclosure generally discusses transitioning the finger play piece between a first state and a second state. The first state and the second state can be characterized by the position of the joint 108 and / or the relative positions of the sections 104, 106.

[0075] In some embodiments, the first segment and the second segment have different relative alignments in each of the first state and the second state. In some embodiments, the first state is an extended state (see Figure 1A ) and the second state is the flexed state (see Figure 2C and Figure 2D ), which may be determined with reference to the joint 108 alone or with reference to the segments 104, 106. In certain embodiments, the first state may correspond to a state in which the first segment 104 and the second segment 106 are longitudinally aligned (e.g., as Figures 1A to 2B ), and the second state may correspond to a state in which the first segment 104 and the second segment 106 are not longitudinally aligned, up to and including being substantially parallel to each other (e.g., as shown using Figure 2C to Figure 2D The various examples in the figure refer to the toys illustrated).

[0076] For ease of understanding, the first state is often referred to herein as a "longitudinal alignment state" or "extended state" in which the first segment and the second segment are longitudinally aligned, and the second state is referred to as a "flexed state" or "parallel segment state" in which the first segment and the second segment are substantially parallel. However, the principles and concepts disclosed herein can be readily adapted to embodiments in which the segments are angled (i.e., tilted or perpendicular) relative to each other in one or both of the first state and the second state.

[0077] When the finger play piece 102 transitions between the first state and the second state, the interference members of the joint 108 are configured to interfere with each other through an interference range of motion in an "interference state," deform (in some embodiments), and then release beyond the interference range (i.e., pass each other, substantially reduce friction or resistance, or otherwise release engagement or significantly reduce interference). As described below, the interference state is a stable state produced by mechanical interference, magnetic interference, or other interference between the interference members. To reiterate, "interference" means, for example, friction, interlocking, rolling abutment, magnetic repulsion or attraction, or otherwise resisting relative bending of the joint. When any finger play piece described herein is not in an interference state or is in another stable state in which the segments are connected together by retaining features or otherwise stabilized, the segments are in a free state or a relaxed state in which the finger play piece is free to rotate about the joint generally with minimal or nominal resistance, except for any bias provided by the hinge 110 or the production process.

[0078] The range of motion in which the interference member interferes is referred to as the interference range of the interference state, and as described above, the interference state may at least partially coincide with the first state (extended state) and the second state (flexed state). Figure 1A to Figure 1BIn some embodiments of the finger play piece 102, the interference state at least partially overlaps with the first state (but not the second state); in such embodiments, the interference member interferes when the segments are in the longitudinally aligned state. In some embodiments, the interference state exists between the first state and the second state (e.g., completely between the first state and the second state); in such embodiments, the interference member does not interfere when the segments are in the longitudinally aligned state. In some embodiments, the interference state at least partially overlaps with the second state (but not the first state); in such embodiments, the interference member interferes when the segments are in the parallel segment state.

[0079] Reference is made to the interior angles formed by the segments of the finger play piece (see, e.g. Figure 2C ), the interference range can be about 1 degree-30 degrees, for example, about 1 degree-20 degrees, about 1 degree-10 degrees, about 10 degrees-30 degrees, or about 10 degrees-20 degrees. To reiterate, the interference member continues to interfere until the segments 104, 106 form an internal angle less than about 150 degrees to 180 degrees (for example, about 150 degrees-170 degrees, about 150 degrees-160 degrees, about 160 degrees-180 degrees, or about 170 degrees-180 degrees). When the segments 104, 106 form an internal angle below the bending threshold, the interference member is quickly released, and thereafter, the finger play piece 102 can be bent to the second state with significantly less resistance.

[0080] In some embodiments, the release of the interference member from the interference state produces a tactile and / or audible "click" or "snap" response from the joint 108. The click or snap response increases the pleasant sensory feedback and stimulates the interest of playing. The degree to which the end 112 interferes with the end 114 in the interference state and the nature of the click / snap response produced depend on the material selection and the geometry of the ends 112, 114. For example, a material with higher rigidity and an interference member configured to interfere to a relatively high degree (e.g., due to shape and / or stricter tolerances) will produce a more obvious click / snap response than a softer material and interference member shape configured to interfere to a minimum degree and / or having a relatively high flexibility. The joint 108 can be configured to produce a click or snap response in a single direction (i.e., when the finger play piece is manipulated from a first state to a second state or vice versa) or in two directions.

[0081] refer to Figure 1B In the finger play piece 102, the interference member includes interlocking ends 112, 114, which can be flexible or otherwise configured to deform when the interference members interfere. More specifically, the interlocking ends 112, 114 include sockets 116 and protrusions 118, respectively, which interfere with each other in a first state (longitudinally aligned state or extended state) and stabilize the finger play piece 102 in this state.

[0082] In such Figure 1A In some embodiments of the finger play piece 102, the interference members 116, 118 interfere with each other in two directions (i.e., when the finger play piece 102 transitions from the first state to the second state and vice versa). In other embodiments, the interference members interfere with each other in a single direction (i.e., when the finger play piece 102 transitions from the first state to the second state or vice versa).

[0083] As discussed in further detail below, the finger play piece 102 can be at least partially formed of a pliable material such that if a user applies sufficient bending force to the finger play piece 102 while the end 112 and the end 114 interfere with each other (i.e., are in an interference state), the end 112 and / or the end 114 undergo sufficient deformation such that the ends 112, 114 release (i.e., pass over each other or otherwise significantly reduce interference), allowing the finger play piece 102 to further transition to the first state or the second state. In some embodiments, the finger play piece 102 is a one-piece device formed of a single material (e.g., injection molded TPU). In other embodiments, the interference member is formed of a different material than the segment; for example, the finger play piece 102 can be co-molded with two or more materials.

[0084] refer to Figure 1C to Figure 1F , a representative interference member configuration will now be described. The finger play piece 102 provides a first example of an interlocking interference member configuration, wherein the end 112 defines, for example, a claw, jaw, or socket 116 that receives a protrusion 118 of the end 114 when the finger play piece 102 is in a first state. In the finger play piece 102, the protrusion 118 has a "T" shape, a mushroom shape, or a bulbous shape. The socket 116 has a "C" shape or claw shape that defines a cavity that receives the protrusion 118 and extends partially around the protrusion when the finger play piece 102 is in the first state.

[0085] Brief reference Figure 1E When the finger play piece 102 is transformed from the first state to the second state or vice versa (e.g., by bending about the joint 108 in the direction 120 from the first state and bending about the joint 108 in the direction 122 from the second state), the socket 116 interferes with the protrusion 118. In particular, the socket 116 clamps the protrusion 118 (e.g., Figure 1C to Figure 1D 106) and resists its release until sufficient bending force is applied to the segments 104, 106 to temporarily deform or yield the socket 116, thereby allowing the protrusion 118 to pop forward therefrom (producing an audible and tactile response).

[0086] like Figure 1EAs shown most clearly in FIG, the protrusion 118 has a partial depth or thickness relative to the depth of the segments 104, 106. In particular, the protrusion 118 has a depth that extends to the centerline 130 of the finger play piece 102. In different embodiments, the depth of the protrusion 118 can be increased or decreased to adjust the click or snap response. For example, in some embodiments, the protrusion 118 can have a depth that extends beyond the centerline 130, for example, up to the full depth or thickness of the segments 104, 106; such embodiments will produce a more significant snap or snap response. On the other hand, in some embodiments, the protrusion 118 has a shallower depth, for example, less than half the depth or thickness of the segments 104, 106; such embodiments will produce a less significant snap or snap response.

[0087] Briefly return to Figure 1A The protrusion 118 has an optional radius formed around its periphery on the first joint surface 148 and the hinge 110, which facilitates the movement of the finger play piece 102 to the first state. Figure 1B As shown, the protrusion 118 does not have any similar radius formed on the side facing the second joint surface 150 or away from the hinge 110; however, other embodiments may include a radius on both sides.

[0088] Go to again Figure 1B , the joint 108 can be configured to prevent over-extension, such as beyond full extension. For example, the hinge 110 is offset from the centerline 130 or midplane, which allows the ends 112, 114 to abut when the finger play piece is bent from the first state in a direction opposite to the second state, thereby preventing over-extension. To reiterate, when longitudinally aligned, the segments 104, 106 define a longitudinal axis (parallel to the centerline 130), and the hinge 110 is offset from the longitudinal axis.

[0089] The interference member may have many additional different configurations. In other embodiments, the interlocking ends include one or more pairs of: tongues and grooves; hooks and loops; balls and sockets; parallel bosses; cams; cams and followers, or similar structures, which mechanically engage with each other and then release when the finger play piece transitions between the first state and the second state. In yet other embodiments, the interference member may include two or more magnets housed at the distal ends of sections 104, 106. The magnets may have the same or opposite polarities. In such embodiments in which the magnets have the same polarity, the magnets magnetically interfere by repelling each other within the interference range. In such embodiments in which the magnets have opposite polarities, the magnets magnetically interfere by attracting each other and resisting bending of the finger play piece 102 within the interference range.

[0090] In yet other embodiments, the finger play piece includes a single interference member in the form of a strip of spring steel or similar material that is biased toward the second state, similar to the tape of a tape measure. The strip extends between the ends 112, 114 of the segments 104, 106. The strip is curved along its width (shorter dimension) so that it has a concave shape when extended. This curvature allows the strip to remain rigid when extended longitudinally (i.e., when the finger play piece 102 is in the first state). However, when sufficient bending force is applied, the strip causes the segments 104, 106 to snap-bend to the second position.

[0091] Finger toys according to the present disclosure may include various other features to enable coupling with other finger toys and building elements to form an assembly. In some implementations, the finger toys may include features for holding the finger toys in a particular state or for maintaining the segments of the finger toys in a particular relative orientation. For example, referring back to Figure 1A , the first section 104 includes a retaining feature 134 (e.g., a snap, link, latch, magnet, press-fit link, ball-and-socket fitting, or similar feature) that is positioned and shaped to couple with and be retained by a complementary retaining feature 136 positioned on the second section 106. The retaining features 134, 136 are disposed on the same first side of the respective sections 104, 106 and are located at positions along the sections 104, 106 such that the retaining features 134, 136 couple together when the finger play piece 102 is in the second state.

[0092] When coupled together, the retaining features 134, 136 maintain the finger play piece 102 in a stable state in which the first section 104 is coupled to and substantially parallel to the second section 106, such as a second state or parallel section state. Figure 2D .

[0093] Figures 2A to 2D The finger toys are illustrated as transitioning between respective first states (e.g., longitudinally aligned states), through intermediate states, and into second states (e.g., parallel segment states). Figure 2D In the illustrated embodiment, the second state is characterized by coupling the retaining features of the respective finger toys to maintain the segments thereof in a parallel orientation.

[0094] Return to Figure 1A to Figure 1B In addition to maintaining the first section 104 and the second section 106 in a relative position and orientation, the retention features 134 and the retention features 136 can be configured in any embodiment to produce an additional tactile and / or audible "snap" or "click" response when coupled and / or separated from each other. For example, in some embodiments, the retention features 134, 136 have complementary detents and notches that produce a snap or click response.

[0095] Although the retaining features 134, 136 of the finger play piece 102 are shown as mating structures, in other specific implementations, such structures may be supplemented or replaced by other mechanisms for retaining the first section 104 relative to the second section 106. For example, in some specific implementations, the retaining features 134, 136 are magnets disposed on the surface of or embedded in the sections 104, 106, respectively. In some embodiments, the retaining features 134, 136 are adhesive patches, hook-and-loop fasteners, or other reversible retaining features. In some embodiments, the retaining features 134, 136 accommodate a third element (e.g., a pin) separate from the finger play piece 102 to retain the first section 104 relative to the second section 106. In some embodiments, the retaining features 134, 136 together form a loop, clasp, buckle, clip, or similar retaining structure.

[0096] Finger toys according to the present disclosure may include retention features on a single segment (e.g., the first segment 104 or the second segment 106). For example, the retention feature 134 may be a band that can be extended or wrapped around the second segment 106 when the first segment 106 and the second segment 104 are in a parallel orientation; in such embodiments, the second segment 106 does not include the retention feature 136. In view of the foregoing, finger toys according to the present disclosure may include any suitable structure configured to maintain the first segment 104 in a position or orientation relative to the second segment 106.

[0097] The finger toys may include additional features for connecting the finger toys to one or more other structures or components, including but not limited to other finger toys. In some embodiments, such interconnection functionality is provided by retention features of the finger toys. For example, the retention feature 134 of the first finger toy can be connected to the retention feature 136 of the second finger toy, the retention feature 134 of the second finger toy can be connected to the retention feature 136 of the third finger toy, and so on, to form a string of finger toys linked by their respective retention features.

[0098] In addition to the retaining features, the finger toy piece may optionally include additional features to facilitate reversibly (such as by mechanical interconnection) or permanently (for example, by adhesive, welding, melting, etc.) connecting the finger toy piece to other building elements (e.g., other finger toy pieces and / or hinges). Such features are generally referred to herein as coupling features or connecting features, and may be selectively referred to as finger toy coupling features and hinge coupling features. Due to their respective structures and arrangements, the coupling features of any embodiment described herein may alternatively be referred to and claimed as pull tabs, i.e., tabs that facilitate separation of the finger toy piece from the second state.

[0099] For example, the coupling feature may be formed as a protrusion or a recess. Figure 1A, in the context of the finger play piece 102, the first section 104 includes a coupling feature 140 disposed at the distal end 138 of the first section 104, and the second section 106 includes a coupling feature 142 disposed at the distal end 152 of the second section 106. Each of the coupling features 140, 142 is a protrusion (a tab in this embodiment) that can be (permanently or reversibly) inserted, adhered, welded, or otherwise attached to a corresponding slot, recess, or surface of the other construction element. More generally, the coupling features 140, 142 can be complementary male / female matching pieces or other interlocking structures. Such coupling features enable precise placement and secure connection of the finger play piece and the hub in an assembly, as described below.

[0100] In other cases, coupling features can facilitate temporary or selective coupling of the finger play piece to other building elements. For example, the coupling features can include magnets, press-fit structures, hook-and-loop fasteners, any of the retaining features described herein, or other similar structures that can be connected, disconnected, and reconnected as needed. For example, such coupling features can be implemented when the finger play piece is part of a building kit that is intended to be assembled and disassembled into different structures. As described below, the present disclosure provides such a building kit that includes multiple building elements.

[0101] Some embodiments include different coupling features on different ends of the segments. For example, a finger play piece may include a tab-type coupling feature at the distal end of a first segment and a ball joint or socket at the distal end of a second segment.

[0102] In some embodiments, the interference member can also be used as a coupling feature. For example, when the finger play piece 102 is configured so that the first section 104 and the second section 106 are substantially parallel, each of the end 112 and the end 114 are exposed. The finger play piece 102 can then be coupled to another building element by inserting the end 112 and the end 114 into corresponding structures (e.g., complementary sockets and recesses) of the building element. For example, the end 112 and the end 114 of the first finger play piece can be inserted into the end 114 and the end 112 of the second finger play piece, respectively, to couple the first finger play piece to the second finger play piece. This coupling concept is described below. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F exemplified and discussed in more detail in the context of .

[0103] Finger toys and structures based on finger toys

[0104] The foregoing concepts of finger toys according to the present disclosure may be incorporated and modified into a wide range of finger toy designs. This section provides various example finger toys and finger toy assemblies, and highlights various features of the example designs. The example implementations are intended to be non-limiting and illustrative of the concepts discussed herein. The concepts in any example implementation included in the example implementations may be combined or modified to achieve designs not specifically illustrated or discussed herein. For example, a finger toy may include any combination of interference joints, coupling features, and / or retaining features. As another example, a finger toy may include interference joints and retaining features, but no coupling features. As yet another example, a finger toy may include structures other than coupling features at one or more of its distal ends, for example, a movable hinge that directly connects the finger toy to other building elements (such as a hub).

[0105] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D A collection of finger play pieces according to the present disclosure is illustrated. In particular, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The front and rear portions of the finger play piece are illustrated in an open configuration or extended state (which may generally correspond to a first state of the finger play piece). Figure 2C The finger play piece is illustrated in a partially folded / bent configuration (which may correspond to an intermediate state or a flexed state of the finger play piece). Figure 2C Such bias may be provided by an interference joint (e.g., a protrusion that prevents entry into a corresponding socket, thereby biasing the finger play piece toward the flexed state). Additionally or alternatively, the bias may be provided by molding or other manufacturing processes of the finger play piece. Figure 2D , meaning that the play piece can be further bent, such as into a fully folded flexed state or a parallel segment state.

[0106] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Shown with Figure 1A The finger play piece 102 is the same as the finger play piece 202a. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D A first alternative finger play piece 202b similar to finger play piece 202a is also included. Compared to finger play piece 202a including a tab-type coupling feature, finger play piece 202b includes ball-type coupling features 240b, 242b, wherein each coupling feature is a spherical protrusion joint configured to couple with a corresponding socket of another component (e.g., as shown in FIG. Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B ). Such a ball joint enables the finger play piece 202b to be axially rotated and moved when coupled to another component. In other embodiments, the finger play piece includes a socket-type coupling feature instead of a ball-type coupling feature.

[0107] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2DAlso included is a second alternative finger play piece 202c that is similar to the finger play piece 202a and is particularly suitable as a decompression toy. Compared with the finger play piece 202a, the finger play piece 202c includes a press-type connection feature 240c, 242c, each of which is an annular protrusion (but a protrusion of any suitable shape can be used instead). The connection feature 240c, 242c also acts as a pull tab to facilitate the separation of the section of the finger play piece 202c from the second state. In some embodiments, the connection feature 240c, 242c can be closed or open, and can be formed to be press-fit with the retaining feature 234c, 236c, respectively. Some embodiments include one or more rings as the connection feature 240c, 242c, for example, to facilitate connection to a key chain.

[0108] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D A third alternative finger play piece 202d similar to the finger play piece 202a is also included. Figure 1A Compared to the joint 108 of the finger toy 102, the joint 308d of the finger toy 202d allows bidirectional bending from the first state (longitudinal alignment state). In other words, when the finger toy 202d is in the first state (e.g., the first section and the second section are aligned), the finger toy 202d can be bent in the first direction by about 208d to transform into the second state, or can be bent in the second direction opposite to the first direction to transform into a third state similar to but opposite to the second state. When in the third state, the finger toy 202d can be completely bent into a folded configuration, similar to Figure 2D Configuration shown. Figure 2B In some embodiments, the first section and the second section each include a second retention feature disposed on the same second side of the first section and the second section, wherein the second retention feature is configured to reversibly retain the first section to the second section. For example, the finger play piece 202d may include retention features 244d, 246d disposed on the side of the respective section opposite to the retention features 234d, 236d and coupled together to retain the finger play piece 202d in the folded configuration.

[0109] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C A finger play piece 302 is shown, which is connected to the finger play piece 302. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2DThe finger play piece 202d is the same as that of the finger play piece 202d, and therefore includes a two-way interference joint 308. Although other two-way joint configurations using the above structure are possible, in at least one specific implementation, the joint 308 includes an interlocking end, which includes a plurality of links, each extending from the end of the first section or the second section. In particular, the link 316 extends from the end 312 of the first section 304 and the link 318 extends from the end 314 of the second section 306. The links 316 and 318 respectively include bosses 346 and 348 extending away from them. In the illustrated embodiment, the bosses 346 and 348 are parallel to each other and parallel to the joint axis 350. Each of the bosses 346 and 348 has a cylindrical cross-sectional shape, but may have an eccentric shape or other shapes in different embodiments.

[0110] When in the first state (i.e., in a state where the segments 304, 306 are longitudinally aligned), the links 316, 318 overlap but do not contact each other. Figure 3A from the page in the perspective of the first state) or bend from the first state to the third state (e.g., Figure 3A 316 and 318 contact and interfere with each other in the interference state. When the finger play piece 302 is further bent, the links 316 and 318 deform and eventually pass each other, resulting in a tactile and / or audible "click" or "snap" and transition to the second state or the third state. To further facilitate the bidirectional bending of the finger play piece 302, the hinge 310 includes parallel bars 332a, 332b extending along the midplane of the finger play piece 302 (see Figure 3C ).

[0111] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4D Shows FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Additional view of finger play piece 202c. Joint 208c and Figure 1A The joint 108 of the finger play piece 102 is the same.

[0112] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D An alternative finger play piece 502 according to the present disclosure is illustrated. The finger play piece 502 combines features of various finger play pieces previously discussed in the present disclosure. The finger play piece 502 includes a first section 504 coupled to a second section 506 by a joint 508, which may take the form of any joint discussed herein but is shown as being substantially similar to Figure 1A The joint 108 of the finger play piece 102.

[0113] As with the previously discussed finger toys, the finger toy 502 can be manipulated by bending the segments 504, 506 about the joint 508. Similar to the finger toy 102, the finger toy 502 is configured to bend in one direction. However, the finger toy 502 includes two sets of retaining features. Specifically, the finger toy 502 includes retaining features 544a, 546a on a first side of the finger toy 502 and retaining features 544b, 546b disposed opposite the retaining features 544a, 546a, respectively.

[0114] During use, the finger play piece 502 can be bent at the joint 508 to connect the retaining features 544a, 546a; however, the finger play piece 502 is generally not bendable to connect the retaining features 544b, 546b. Therefore, the retaining features 544b, 546b are intended to be used to connect the finger play piece 502 to other components (e.g., finger play pieces or hinges).

[0115] The finger play piece 502 also includes coupling features 540, 542 that can be used to couple the finger play piece 502 to other finger play pieces, hubs, etc. The coupling features 540, 542 are shown as tabs; however, these features can be replaced with any other type of coupling features discussed or otherwise suitable for the purposes described herein.

[0116] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D An alternative finger play piece 602 according to the present disclosure is illustrated. The finger play piece 602 is similar to Figure 1A The finger play piece 102 of the present invention includes a first section 604 connected to a second section 606 by a joint 608 including a living hinge 610. The finger play piece 602 can be manipulated by bending the sections 604, 606 about the joint 608. Unlike the previously described finger play pieces, the joint 608 is not an interference joint, that is, the ends of the sections 604, 606 do not interfere when bending occurs. Therefore, the joint 608 does not produce an audible and / or tactile click or snap response when bent.

[0117] Finger play piece 602 is otherwise substantially similar and incorporates various aspects of the finger play pieces discussed herein. For example, finger play piece 602 includes retention features 644, 646 of magnets embedded in sections 604, 606, respectively. Such embedded magnet retention features may be used in any of the finger play pieces described herein. In other specific implementations, retention features 644, 646 may be replaced with other components, such as mating surface features.

[0118] Retention features 644, 646 can be coupled to each other to maintain finger play piece 602 in a folded state regardless of the direction in which finger play piece 602 is bent about joint 608. Retention features 644, 646 can also facilitate coupling of finger play piece 602 to other finger play pieces, hinges, and the like.

[0119] The finger play piece 602 also includes coupling features 640, 642 that can be used to couple the finger play piece 602 to other finger play pieces, a hub, etc. The coupling features 640, 642 are FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D However, such features may be replaced with any other type of coupling features discussed or otherwise suitable for the purposes described herein.

[0120] The aforementioned finger play pieces each include a single joint disposed between two sections. In other specific implementations of the present disclosure, the finger play piece includes two or more joints and couples more than two sections together.

[0121] refer to FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B , the play piece 702 includes a series or series of six segments 704a to 704f connected in sequence by five joints 708a to 708e that respectively abut adjacent segments. The number of segments and joints is representative, and other embodiments may include more or fewer segments and joints.

[0122] For simplicity, segments 704a to 704f omit retention features and coupling features. However, one or more segments in any multi-segment finger play piece may include retention features and / or coupling features as described above. Joints 708a to 708e are each similar to Figure 1A to Figure 1B Thus, the adjacent segments 704a-704f and the corresponding joints 708a-708e disposed between the adjacent segments are similar in structure and function to the finger toy 102, i.e., each pair of adjacent segments can be moved from a first state through an interference state and into a second state by bending about a corresponding joint, wherein the joints produce a click and / or snap when the segments transition between states. With this in mind, Fig. 7A The finger play piece 702 is shown, wherein each pair of adjacent segments and their corresponding joints are in a first state (longitudinally aligned state), and Figure 7B The finger play piece 702 is shown with each pair of adjacent segments and their corresponding joints in a second state.

[0123] like Figure 7B As shown, all joints 708a to 708e are configured to bend in the same direction, for example, so that all segments 704a to 704f can bend around the corresponding joints in a common direction to form a thick circle. In some embodiments, one or more of the joints 708a to 708e are configured to bend in different directions relative to one or more other joints 708a to 708e, for example, so that the segments 704a to 704f can form a "zigzag" or similar shape. In some embodiments, one or more of the joints 708a to 708e are configured to bend in two directions (for example, using a FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C Two-way interference joint shown).

[0124] It is noteworthy that segments 704a to 704f are stylized similar to Fig. 7A and Figure 7B The fish in the embodiment of the present invention has a head and a tail. This shows the general possibility that some sections of the finger toys may be different from other sections. Of course, these sections can be formed in any way. To this end, in some embodiments, one or more of the elongated finger toys include a flat portion or platform suitable for attaching decals, product information, decorations or other decorative items.

[0125] The finger play pieces of the present disclosure may be coupled together into a finger play piece based assembly.

[0126] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8F One such finger-based play piece assembly 800 is shown in various configurations. The assembly 800 includes a plurality of finger play pieces 802a to 802f coupled together in a closed loop. Each of the finger play pieces 802a to 802f is connected to a Figure 1A to Figure 1B The finger play piece 102 is the same as the finger play piece 102, except that the tab-type connecting features 140, 142 of the finger play piece 102 are Fig. 8A In the embodiment of the present invention, the finger toys 802a to 802f are replaced by direct connections between adjacent finger toys. Therefore, each of the finger toys 802a to 802f includes an interference joint connecting its sections. Each of the finger toys 802a to 802f is substantially the same; however, in other embodiments, the finger toys of the assembly may vary.

[0127] Fig. 8A A first configuration of assembly 800 is illustrated, wherein each finger toy piece 802a to 802f is oriented to be folded inwardly. For purposes of this disclosure, a finger toy piece incorporated into a closed structure or assembly is referred to as being folded "inwardly" when the joints of the finger toy piece after folding generally point toward the center of mass of the closed structure. Similarly, a finger toy piece in a closed structure is referred to as being folded "outwardly" when the joints of the finger toy piece after folding generally point away from the center of mass of the closed structure. For example, still referring to Fig. 8A When the finger play piece 802a is in the second state and / or fully folded, its joint 808a will be disposed radially inward from its retaining feature toward the center of mass of the assembly 800.

[0128] In contrast, Figure 8B A second configuration of the assembly 800 is illustrated, wherein each finger play piece 802a to 802f is oriented to be folded outward. For example, when the finger play piece 802a is in the second state and / or in Figure 8B When fully collapsed in the illustrated configuration, the joint 808a of the finger play piece 802a will be disposed radially outward of its retaining feature, i.e., away from the center of mass of the assembly 800. In other words, Fig. 8A and Figure 8B The inversion of the assembly 800 is illustrated. Fig. 8A and Figure 8B Flipping between configurations may include twisting or rolling the finger toys 802a to 802f around the ring axis into the desired configuration. This inversion feature is achieved by the range of motion of the joints of each finger play piece and the flexible material (e.g., TPU) that optionally forms the finger play piece.

[0129] Figure 8C Illustrated Fig. 8A A variation of the inwardly folded configuration of assembly 800 is shown, wherein each finger play piece 802a to 802f is in a second state, but not fully folded, such that the retention features of each finger play piece are engaged.

[0130] Fig.8D Variations of the folded-out configuration of assembly 800 are illustrated, with finger toys 802a-802f in various configurations. Finger toys 802a, 802b are in a second state but not fully folded. Finger toys 802c, 802f are in a fully folded configuration (i.e., their respective retention features are engaged). Finally, finger toy 802d is coupled to finger toy 802e by engaging the retention features of both finger toys (the retention features of finger toys 802d, 802e are blocked due to the coupling).

[0131] Fig. 8E Another alternative configuration of assembly 800 is illustrated. As discussed above in the context of finger toys 102, joints of finger toys according to the present disclosure may include interlocking structures, such as sockets 116 and protrusions 118. In at least some embodiments, such interlocking structures may also facilitate the connection of finger toys to each other. For example, when each of a pair of finger toys is in a fully folded configuration, the mating structures of the joints of each finger toy may be exposed and connected together. (For example, refer to Figure 1A , the socket 116 of the first finger play piece can be inserted into the protrusion 118 of the second finger play piece and vice versa).

[0132] Fig. 8E A first example of such a connection is illustrated, wherein each finger toy piece 802a and finger toy piece 802d are in a fully folded configuration and connected together by their respective joint structures. More specifically, the connection between the finger toy piece 802a and the finger toy piece 802d is caused by the joint protrusion of the finger toy piece 802a being inserted into the joint socket of the finger toy piece 802d and the joint socket of the finger toy piece 802a receiving the joint protrusion of the finger toy piece 802d.

[0133] Figure 8F yes Fig. 8E A further illustration of the concept of wherein finger play piece 802a is paired with finger play piece 802c and finger play piece 802d is paired with finger play piece 802f.

[0134] Hubs and other building elements

[0135] The aforementioned specific implementations of the present disclosure include finger toys and finger toy assemblies. In other specific implementations, the finger toys may be attached to, integrated with, or otherwise connected to a non-finger toy structure. Such structures include the "hubs" described below. A given hub may have any suitable size, shape, and appearance, and may be attached to or selectively connected to one or more finger toys. In certain specific implementations, the hub and the finger toys may be selectively connected to each other and constitute a construction kit (at least one finger toy and a hub) that can be built into a series of structures that can be easily assembled and disassembled. In other specific implementations, the hub and the finger toys may be permanently fixed to each other. In either case, once the finger toy is attached to one or more hubs, the finger toy can be transformed between states to dynamically change and reconstruct the resulting structure.

[0136] 9A to 9D A representative hub 900 according to the present disclosure is illustrated. In particular, 9A to 9C Various views of hub 900 are illustrated, and Fig.9D A perspective view of the hinge 900 including the hinge 900 and the finger play piece 102 is illustrated.

[0137] The hub 900 includes a body 902 having a substantially triangular planar shape defining an optional cutout 904. The body 902 also includes vertices 906a-906c defining coupling features formed as slots 908a-908c. The coupling features of any given hub are configured to mechanically couple with coupling features of one or more finger play pieces. In the illustrated embodiment shown, the coupling features of the hub 900 are formed as slots and are therefore configured to couple with tab-type coupling features (e.g., as described with respect to FIG. 1 ). Figure 1A to Figure 1B However, other hubs may include coupling features configured as sockets, ball joints, tabs, and other interengaging structures configured to couple with complementary coupling features of a finger play piece.

[0138] The triangular shape of hub 900 is representative and non-limiting. Other hubs of the present disclosure have different shapes, which may include polygonal shapes (e.g., square, pentagonal, hexagonal, etc.). Advantageously, the greater the number of vertices, the greater the number of different components that can be assembled with the finger play pieces.

[0139] The cutout 904 is optional but facilitates manipulating the assembly into different states. In particular, the cutout facilitates moving the finger play piece from the second state (eg, a state in which the plurality of finger play pieces are substantially parallel, such as Fig. 17C ) to a first state (eg, a longitudinally aligned configuration, such as Fig. 17BOther hubs do not include such cutouts, advantageously providing a flat portion or platform suitable for attaching decals, product information, ornaments, or other decorative items.

[0140] refer to Fig.9D , the coupling structure of the hub 900 can be coupled to the corresponding coupling structure of one or more finger toys (e.g., finger toys 102). In some embodiments, the finger toys 102 can be attached to the hub 900 during manufacturing. For example, the coupling features of the finger toys 102 can be adhered, welded, pinned, or otherwise attached to the coupling features of the hub 900. In some embodiments, the body 902 can include multiple pieces (e.g., the body 902 can have a clamshell or a multi-layer laminate) so that the coupling features of the finger toys 102 are retained within two or more parts of the hub 900 (e.g., sandwiched between the two or more parts). In some other specific implementations, the finger toys 102 and the hub 900 are integrally formed, for example, injection molded, 3D printed, or otherwise manufactured as a unitary piece.

[0141] In other implementations, the hinge and the finger play piece may be selectively coupled together in that a given hinge may include features adapted to couple with corresponding features of the finger play piece. Fig. 12B and Fig. 10B exemplifies an implementation in which the hub is selectively coupled to the finger play piece, which is described above in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D discussed in the context of .

[0142] Fig. 10A and Fig. 10B An alternative joining method utilizing a ball and socket connection is illustrated. Fig. 10A , the assembly or construction kit includes a hub 1000 and a finger play piece 1002. The hub 1000 includes a body with a plurality of sockets 1008a to 1008c disposed around the periphery of the body (one socket at each vertex), wherein each socket is shaped to receive a corresponding ball protrusion coupling feature 1040 of the finger play piece 1002 (as previously described with respect to Figure 2A described above). Fig. 10B A finger play piece 1002 is shown coupled to the hub 1000. Advantageously, the ball and socket coupling mechanism enables a greater range of relative motion between the hub 1000 and the finger play piece 1002 than a press-fit type coupling feature.

[0143] The foregoing examples of hinge and finger play pieces are intended to be representative examples. Fig. 12B and Fig. 10BSelective connection between a hub and a play piece using press-fit connection features and ball-and-socket connection features, respectively, are illustrated, but embodiments of the present disclosure may alternatively rely on magnets, reusable adhesive surfaces, hook-and-loop structures, interlocking structures (e.g., mortise and tenon or dovetail joints), or any other suitable connection device.

[0144] Hubs according to the present disclosure are also not limited to the specific shapes and structures illustrated in the previously discussed figures. 9A to 9C , FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B Flat triangular and pentagonal hubs are illustrated, but the hubs of other embodiments may take the form of any regular (eg, polygonal) or irregular shape.

[0145] As yet another example, the hub of the present disclosure need not be substantially flat. Instead, the hub may have a space-filling configuration similar to a parallelepiped (e.g., a cube), a pyramid, a tetrahedron, an octahedron, a dodecahedron, or other space-filling regular or irregular shapes. Such a space-filling hub may have a substantially solid configuration, or may be formed by a grid of frame elements that provide a skeletal hub structure.

[0146] Although 9A to 10B Each of the hubs in the embodiment includes a circular cutout, but such cutouts may be of any suitable shape or omitted entirely, for example, to provide a flat surface for attaching decals, product information, ornaments, or other decorative items.

[0147] The hubs may also be configured to couple to each other using any suitable coupling mechanism, including structures similar to any of the coupling features described herein. More generally, hubs according to the present disclosure may be readily adapted to any suitable shape, so long as they are configured to couple to one or more finger play pieces. Furthermore, while the foregoing examples illustrate hubs having coupling locations regularly distributed around the surface or outer periphery of the hub, the hub may be readily adapted to include any number of coupling locations disposed at any location on the hub.

[0148] Fig.11 Another hub 1100 is shown that is similar to hub 900 and includes a body 1102 having a substantially triangular, flat shape. Body 1102 also includes three vertices that define coupling features 1104a-1104c.

[0149] Fig. 12A Another representative hub 1200 is provided having different coupling features than the hub 900. In particular, the hub 1200 includes a body 1202 having a plurality of coupling features 1204a to 1204c that are shaped to mate with coupling features of a finger play piece (e.g., coupling features 240c, 242c of finger play piece 202c, e.g., Fig. 12B As shown)).

[0150] Fig.13 An alternative hub 1300 is illustrated that includes a pentagonal body 1302 having five vertices with coupling features formed at each vertex.

[0151] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14E An alternative hub 1400 according to the present disclosure is shown. Hub 1400 includes a body 1402 having a substantially square planar shape defining an optional cutout 1404. Body 1402 also includes a truncated vertex (e.g., truncated vertex 1406) having a coupling feature 1408 (e.g., a groove or other coupling feature) that is configured to attach to or retain a coupling feature of a finger play piece according to the present disclosure.

[0152] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15E Another alternative hub 1500 according to the present disclosure is shown. Hub 1500 includes a body 1502 having a substantially triangular planar shape defining an optional cutout 1504. Body 1502 also includes a truncated vertex (e.g., truncated vertex 1506) having a corresponding coupling feature 1508 (e.g., a groove or other coupling feature) that is configured to attach to or retain a coupling feature of a finger play piece according to the present disclosure.

[0153] FIG. 16A to FIG. 16E Another alternative hub 1600 according to the present disclosure is shown. Hub 1600 includes a body 1602 having a substantially pentagonal flat shape defining an optional cutout 1604. Body 1602 also includes a truncated vertex (e.g., truncated vertex 1606) having a coupling feature 1608 (e.g., a groove or other coupling feature) that is configured to attach to or retain a coupling feature of a finger play piece according to the present disclosure.

[0154] Toy components

[0155] The foregoing concepts for hinges and finger play pieces can be incorporated and modified into a wide range of structures and assemblies, including toys. This section provides various example designs for hinge and finger play piece structures and highlights various features of the example designs. The example implementations are intended to be non-limiting and illustrative of the concepts discussed herein. The concepts in any of the example implementations included in the example implementations can be combined or modified to achieve designs not specifically illustrated or discussed herein.

[0156] The assemblies described below may generally be characterized as "open" or "closed." An open assembly or open configuration generally includes at least one finger play piece separated from a hinge, including a two-dimensional grid. A closed assembly or closed configuration is generally characterized by a three-dimensional shape (e.g., a cube, tetrahedron, or icosahedron) and / or substantially all of the finger play pieces are connected to a hinge.

[0157] The closed assembly or closed configuration may be further characterized as "stable" or "unstable." In a stable configuration, the finger toys are stabilized in place by corresponding interference joints or retaining features. For example, a stable configuration includes a closed configuration in which each finger play piece is stabilized in a longitudinally aligned state by a corresponding interference joint. As another example, a stable configuration includes a closed configuration in which each finger play piece is stabilized in a parallel segment state by a corresponding retaining feature. A stable configuration may be characterized by rigidity and load-bearing capacity without significant deformation.

[0158] In contrast, in an unstable configuration, one or more of the finger toys are free to flex or bend within a range of motion without significant interference from an interfering joint (e.g., an interference member). For example, an unstable configuration includes a closed configuration in which one or more of the finger toys are in a partially flexed state in which the interference member does not interfere (i.e., is released), such as Figure 2C An unstable configuration may be characterized as being resilient, elastic, or generally incapable of carrying a load without significant deformation. An unstable configuration has greater elasticity than a stable configuration of the same component.

[0159] Any of the closure assemblies described herein have an inversion feature whereby the assembly can be inverted into an inverted position (i.e., flipped from inside-out to inside-out) without disconnecting or separating any of the finger play pieces from the hinge. This feature is achieved by the range of motion of the respective joints. Optionally, the inversion feature is facilitated by a pliable material (e.g., TPU) that at least partially forms the finger play piece.

[0160] The following components each have multiple independent degrees of freedom. To reiterate, any one of the finger toys can be transformed between a first state and a second state independently of the other finger toys of the assembly.

[0161] FIG. 17A to FIG. 17C An assembly 1700 is illustrated, which includes a plurality of finger toys (e.g., six finger toys, such as finger toys 1702) and a plurality of hinges (e.g., four hinges, such as hinge 1704), each of the plurality of finger toys being substantially similar to finger toys 202a (described above in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D ), each of the plurality of hubs is substantially similar to hub 1200 (discussed above in the context of Fig. 12A discussed in the context of ).

[0162] Fig.17A Assembly 1700 is illustrated as an open assembly in a partially constructed configuration, wherein the finger play pieces and hinges are not fully connected, thereby forming a flat grid, i.e., a substantially flat open structure or planar assembly coupled to at least one hinge of at least one finger play piece. Fig.17AIn one embodiment, one coupling feature of each finger play piece is coupled to a hinge, but at least one other coupling feature of each finger play piece is separate from any hinge or other finger play piece. In addition, Fig.17A The assembly 1700 in is substantially flat and planar. A grid is a useful assembly for packaging purposes, and any assembly of at least one finger play piece and at least one hub may be required to be a grid. Additionally, the grid reduces the number of points that need to be connected in order for a user to achieve a complete assembly of the building element. For example, Fig.17A The open structure grid shown only needs to be connected at three locations to achieve Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C A closed structure assembly 1700 is provided.

[0163] Fig. 17B The assembly 1700 is illustrated in a stable closed assembly or closed configuration wherein the finger play pieces and the hinge are fully connected, i.e., each coupling feature of each finger play piece is coupled to a coupling feature of the hinge. Fig. 17B In the configuration of , each of the finger toys is stable in a first state (e.g., a longitudinally aligned state). Assembly 1700 forms a generally tetrahedral shape in this configuration. As will be understood from the following description of other embodiments, assembly 1700 has multiple degrees of freedom.

[0164] refer to Fig. 17C , any or all of the finger toys may be bent / folded into an alternative closed configuration, up to and including fully folded into a second state in which the sections of each finger toy are parallel to one another). Fig. 17C The assembly 1700 is illustrated in another stable closed configuration, wherein all the finger toys are in a second state or fully folded state. In the second state or fully folded state, the retention feature of at least one finger toy can cooperate with its other retention features.

[0165] Fig. 17B and Fig. 17C The closed components of both are stable states. For example, Fig. 17B The closed configuration of the finger play piece is stable because each of the finger play pieces is in an extended state. Fig. 17C The closed configuration of the finger toys is stable because each of the finger toys is in a fully flexed state (parallel segment state).

[0166] The user can remove the component 1700 from Fig.17A The grid is assembled into a fully connected configuration, which can then be used in the first configuration ( Fig. 17B ) and the second configuration ( Fig. 17C ) and adjust the assembly 1700 in a plurality of intermediate states. When any of the finger toys is in the first state (e.g. Fig. 17BIn some embodiments, the finger play piece may include an interference joint as described above. In such embodiments, manipulating the finger play piece to leave the first state causes the interference joint to produce a pleasant "snap" or "click" audible and tactile feedback.

[0167] When any of the finger toys is in the second state (such as Fig. 17C As shown in FIG. 1 , the user can pull any of the hinges to extend one or more finger toys to the first state of axial alignment. Due to the release of the retaining feature, manipulating the finger toys to leave the second state can also generate an audible and / or tactile "snap" or "click" feedback.

[0168] Thus, assembly 1700 includes a plurality of finger play pieces coupled or coupleable to a plurality of hinges. Assembly 1700 is reconfigurable between an open configuration and at least two different closed configurations. Assembly 1700 is reconfigurable between a stable closed configuration and at least one unstable closed configuration.

[0169] The remaining structures discussed in this section are illustrated as having permanently connected finger pieces and hinges (e.g., welded together). It is worth noting that each such structure may alternatively be composed of suitable finger pieces and hinges that are configured to be selectively connected together (e.g., as in a construction kit).

[0170] 18A to 18C An assembly 1800 is illustrated, which includes a plurality of finger play pieces (six finger play pieces in this embodiment) and a plurality of hinges (four hinges in this embodiment), each of the plurality of finger play pieces being substantially similar to finger play piece 202d (described above in Figure 2A ), each of the plurality of hubs is substantially similar to hub 900 (discussed above in the context of 9A to 9C As discussed above in the context of Figure 2A As discussed in the context of , the finger play piece 202d includes a two-way interference joint and is therefore configured to transition between and remain in two relative fully folded configurations.

[0171] Fig.18A The assembly 1800 is illustrated in a stable closed configuration, wherein each finger play piece is folded outwardly into a second state (parallel segment state). Fig.18B The assembly 1800 is illustrated in another stable closed configuration, with some of the finger toys folded inwardly into the second state and other finger toys folded outwardly relative to the center of mass of the assembly. Fig. 18C The assembly 1800 is shown in an unstable configuration, with some finger toys fully and partially folded outwardly and other finger toys folded inwardly.

[0172] Assembly 1800 is an example of an expandable assembly that includes a plurality of hubs and a first plurality of finger play pieces. The plurality of hubs includes a first hub, a second hub, and a third hub. The first plurality of finger play pieces connect the first hub to the second hub and the third hub. Assembly 1800 has multiple degrees of freedom. For example, the relative distances between hubs 1802a to 1802c can be independently varied. For example, assembly 1800 can be expanded from a first state ( Fig.18B ) expands to the second state ( Fig. 18C ), wherein the first hub 1802a is spaced apart from the second hub 1802b and the third hub 1802c by a larger distance in the second state than in the first state, wherein the second hub 1802b and the third hub 1802c are spaced apart by the same distance in both the first state and the second state.

[0173] Thus, assembly 1800 includes a plurality of finger play pieces coupled or coupleable to a plurality of hinges. Assembly 1800 is reconfigurable between at least two stable closed configurations and at least one unstable closed configuration.

[0174] FIG. 19A to FIG. 19D The assembly 1900 is illustrated, and the assembly includes a plurality of finger play pieces (here twelve finger play pieces) and a plurality of hinges (here eight hinges), each of the plurality of finger play pieces being substantially similar to the finger play piece 102 (described above in Figure 1A to Figure 1B ), each of the plurality of hubs is substantially similar to Fig.9A When each finger play piece of assembly 1900 is in the first state, assembly 1900 forms Fig.19A The stable closed cube shape shown. FIG. 19B to FIG. 19D The assembly 1900 with the finger play piece in various states is illustrated. Specifically, Fig.19B The assembly 1900 is illustrated in an unstable closed configuration wherein all of the finger play pieces are in a partially folded state. Fig.19C The assembly 1900 is illustrated in another unstable closed configuration, with some of the finger toys in a first state (longitudinally aligned state), some of the finger toys in a partially folded state, and some of the finger toys in a second state (fully folded state). Fig.19D The assembly 1900 is illustrated in another stable closed configuration, wherein all of the finger play pieces are fully folded inward and stabilized in the second state (parallel segment state) by the retention features.

[0175] Thus, assembly 1900 includes a plurality of finger play pieces coupled or coupleable to a plurality of hinges. Assembly 1900 is reconfigurable between a plurality of stable closed configurations and a plurality of unstable closed configurations.

[0176] FIG. 20A to FIG. 20CAssembly 2000 is illustrated, which is substantially similar to assembly 1900, except that each finger play piece has been inverted so that each finger play piece folds outward rather than inward. Thus, assemblies 1900, 2000 have the inverted characteristics described above with respect to assembly 800, which is achieved by the range of motion of the respective joints and the pliable material (e.g., TPU) that at least partially forms the finger play pieces. In fact, assembly 1900 can be inverted into assembly 2000 without disconnecting or separating any of the finger play pieces from the hinge. This characteristic is generally applicable to all closure assemblies described herein.

[0177] Fig. 20A The assembly 2000 is illustrated in an unstable closed configuration, wherein each finger play piece is partially folded outward. Fig. 20B The assembly 2000 is illustrated in another unstable closed configuration, with some finger toys fully folded outward in the second state (parallel segment state), some finger toys partially folded outward, and some finger toys in the first state (longitudinally aligned state). Fig. 20C The assembly 2000 is illustrated in a stable closed configuration, wherein all finger toys are fully folded outward and stabilized in the second state (parallel segment state) by the retaining feature. When each finger play piece of the assembly 2000 is in the first state (longitudinally aligned state), the assembly 2000 has a similar Fig.19A The stable cubic closed configuration of component 1900.

[0178] Thus, assembly 2000 includes a plurality of finger play pieces coupled or coupleable to a plurality of hinges. Assembly 2000 is reconfigurable between a plurality of unstable closed configurations and a plurality of stable closed configurations.

[0179] FIG. 21A to FIG. 21E The assembly 2100 is illustrated, and the assembly includes a plurality of finger play pieces (here thirty finger play pieces) and a plurality of hinges (here twelve pentagonal hinges), each of the plurality of finger play pieces being substantially similar to the finger play piece 102 (described above in Figure 1A ), each of the plurality of hubs is substantially similar to Fig.13 The hub of Fig.21A As shown in the stable closed configuration, when each finger play piece of the assembly 2100 is in the first state (longitudinal alignment state), the assembly 2100 forms a stable icosahedron shape. FIG. 21B to FIG. 21E The assembly 2100 with the finger play piece is illustrated in different stages of folding. Fig.21B The assembly 2100 is illustrated in an unstable closed configuration, wherein all of the finger play pieces are in a partially folded state. Fig. 21C The assembly 1900 is illustrated in a stable closed configuration, with all of the finger play pieces fully folded inwardly into the second state (parallel segment state). Fig.21DThe assembly 1900 is illustrated in another stable closed configuration, wherein the first set of finger toys are completely folded inwardly into the second state and the remaining finger toys are in the first state (longitudinally aligned state). Fig.21E The assembly 1900 is illustrated in yet another stable closed configuration, wherein the second set of finger toys are completely folded inwardly into the second state and the remaining finger toys are in the first state.

[0180] As with the previous assemblies, assembly 2100 has multiple degrees of freedom. For example, the relative distances between hubs 2102a to 2102c can be independently varied. For example, assembly 2100 can be moved from a first state ( Fig. 21C ) expands to the second state ( Fig.21E ), wherein the first hub 2102a is spaced apart from the second hub 2102b and the third hub 2102c by a larger distance in the second state than in the first state, wherein the second hub 2102b and the third hub 2102c are spaced apart by the same distance in both the first state and the second state.

[0181] Thus, assembly 2100 includes a plurality of finger play pieces coupled or coupleable to a plurality of hinges. Assembly 2100 is reconfigurable between a plurality of unstable closed configurations and a plurality of stable closed configurations.

[0182] FIG. 22A to FIG. 22C An assembly 2200 is shown that is substantially similar to assembly 2100, although the orientation of each finger play piece is inverted so that each finger play piece folds outward rather than inward. Thus, assemblies 2100, 2200 have the inverted characteristics described above with respect to assemblies 800, 1900, 2000, which is achieved by the range of motion of the respective joints and the pliable material (e.g., TPU) that at least partially forms the finger play pieces. Assembly 2100 can be inverted into assembly 2200 without disconnecting or separating any of the finger play pieces from the hinge.

[0183] Fig.22A The assembly 2200 is illustrated in an unstable closed configuration, wherein each finger play piece is partially folded outward. Fig. 22B The assembly 2200 is illustrated in another unstable closed configuration, with some of the finger toys completely folded outward into the second state (parallel segment state) and some of the finger toys partially folded outward. Fig. 20C The assembly 2200 is illustrated in a stable closed configuration, wherein all finger toys are completely folded outward into the second state. The icosahedral structure of the assembly 2200 is similar to the icosahedral structure of the assembly 2100 when each finger toys of the hinge 900 are in the first state (longitudinally aligned state).

[0184] FIG. 23A to FIG. 23CThe assembly 2300 is illustrated, and the assembly includes a plurality of finger play pieces (here, six finger play pieces) and a plurality of hinges (here, four triangular hinges), each of the plurality of finger play pieces being substantially similar to the finger play piece 102 (described above in Figure 1A to Figure 1B 900). Assembly 2300 is substantially similar to assembly 1700, although its finger toys are permanently attached to the hinges. When each finger play piece of assembly 2300 is in a first state (longitudinally aligned state), assembly 2300 forms a stable closed tetrahedron configuration. Fig. 23B The assembly 2300 is illustrated in another stable closed configuration, with some of the finger toys in a first state and some of the finger toys in a second state fully folded inwardly. Fig.23C The assembly 2300 is shown in another stable closed configuration, wherein all of the finger toys are folded into a second state in which they are fully folded inwardly.

[0185] FIG. 24A to FIG. 24B An assembly 2400 is illustrated that is substantially similar to assembly 2300, although the orientation of each finger play piece is inverted so that each finger play piece folds outward rather than inward. See the above description of inverted assemblies 800, 1900, 2000, 2100, 2200. When each finger play piece of assembly 2400 is in a first state (longitudinally aligned state), the stable closed tetrahedron configuration of assembly 2400 is similar to the stable closed tetrahedron configuration of assembly 2300. Fig.24A The assembly 2400 is illustrated in an unstable closed configuration, wherein each finger play piece is partially folded outward. Fig. 24B The assembly 2400 is illustrated in a stable closed configuration, with all finger play pieces fully folded outwardly into the second state (parallel segment state).

[0186] Materials and manufacturing

[0187] Finger toys according to the present disclosure can be formed using a range of materials and manufacturing techniques. Generally speaking, any material or manufacturing process that can produce a joint that functions as described in the present disclosure can be used. However, in at least one specific implementation, the finger toys can be formed from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Generally speaking, TPU is a flexible and durable material that is well suited for consumer products such as toys. TPU is also suitable for a range of manufacturing processes, including but not limited to injection molding and 3D printing.

[0188] Although TPU has properties suitable for various applications of the present disclosure, other suitable and non-limiting materials from which the finger toys of the present disclosure are derived include thermoplastic rubber (TPR) or polypropylene (PP). Similarly, in certain specific implementations, the finger toys according to the present disclosure can be formed by injection molding and 3D printing; however, the present disclosure contemplates other manufacturing processes, including but not limited to molding, casting, additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D printing and variations of 3D printing, such as stereolithography (SLA), selective laser sintering (SLS), fused deposition modeling (FDM), digital light processing (DLP), multi-jet fusion (MJF), direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) and electron beam melting (EBM)) and subtractive manufacturing (e.g., machining).

[0189] The hubs and components to which the finger toys may be coupled are also not limited to any particular material or manufacturing process. Hubs and similar components may be substantially rigid and thus may be formed from a wider range of materials than finger toys, which typically include flexible joints. A non-limiting example of such a material suitable for forming the hub of the present disclosure is acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

[0190] Components according to the present disclosure may also be formed from multiple pieces, each of which may be formed from different metals and / or using different manufacturing processes. For example, a finger play piece may include a TPU joint portion coupled to a section formed from different plastic or non-plastic materials.

[0191] As previously described, in some implementations, an assembly / structure comprising one or more hinges coupled to one or more finger toys may be manufactured such that the hinge and finger toys are integrally formed. In other implementations, the hinge and at least a portion of the finger toys may be formed together as an integral assembly that may subsequently be attached (permanently or selectively) to one or more other finger toys, hinges, or an assembly of finger toys and hinges.

[0192] For ease of manufacturing and packaging, the components of the finger play piece and the hinge can be formed using a manufacturing process (e.g., an injection molding process) as described above with respect to Fig.17A The substantially flat grid or similar open structure can then be closed by fixing certain finger play pieces and hinges to form a closed structure.

[0193] For example, Fig.25 Grid 2500 of hinges and finger play pieces is illustrated that may be formed using injection molding or a similar process. Grid 2500 is substantially similar to Fig.17A2500. After the mesh 2500 is formed, the mesh 2500 can be closed by attachment points, which are illustrated by attaching certain hinges and finger toys as indicated by lines 2502a to 2502c. For example, the hinges and finger toys can be connected together using adhesives, welding, or similar bonding processes. When joined as illustrated by lines 2502a to 2502c, the mesh 2500 is closed into a tetrahedral assembly, such as FIG. 23A to FIG. 23C Components 2300 or Fig.24A and Fig. 24B Component 2400.

[0194] Fig.26 A similar concept for forming a structure from multiple meshes is illustrated. In particular, Fig.26 A first grid 2602a and a second grid 2602b are shown, each of which is as described above with respect to Fig.17A Each of the first grid 2602a and the second grid 2602b can be formed separately, for example by injection molding, and then connected together into a closed structure by connecting the points indicated by the guide lines 2604a to 2604f. When joined as illustrated by the guide lines 2604a to 2604f, the grids 2602a and 2602b form a closed cubic assembly, such as Fig.19A Components 1900 and Fig. 20A Components 2000.

[0195] Additional Implementation

[0196] FIG. 27A to FIG. 27E An assembly 2700 according to the present disclosure is illustrated. The assembly 2700 is arranged in a star pattern with five finger toys (e.g., finger toys 2702) coupled to and extending from a central hub 2704. Each of the finger toys includes a plurality of interference joints, each of the interference joints providing a tactile click / snap as discussed throughout the present disclosure. The finger toys are also illustrated as being secured to the central hub 2704 by similar interference joints; however, in other specific implementations, the finger toys may alternatively be selectively coupled to the central hub 2704 using any removable or permanent coupling structure discussed herein.

[0197] Fig.27A The assembly 2700 is illustrated with each finger play piece in a first state (longitudinal alignment state). Fig.27B Assembly 2700 is illustrated with each finger play piece in a second state.

[0198] FIG. 28A to FIG. 27EAssembly 2800 is illustrated as a variation of assembly 2700. In particular, assembly 2800 includes six finger play pieces (eg, finger play piece 2802) extending from a central hub 2804.

[0199] FIG. 29A to FIG. 29E The assembly 2900 is illustrated as comprising a single multi-joint finger play piece, each joint being as described with respect to Figure 1A The interference joint of the finger play piece 102. Similar to other finger play pieces in the present disclosure, each joint in the assembly 2900 can be transformed between a first state (longitudinal alignment state) and a second state, wherein the transformation provides a tactile and audible click / snap response.

[0200] Fig.29A The assembly 2900 is illustrated with each connector in a first state, and Fig.29B The assembly 2900 is illustrated with each connector in a second state. The assembly 2900 also includes complementary mating ends 2902, 2904 that can be coupled together to move the assembly 2900 from a linear / open configuration (e.g., Fig.29A ) to a closed loop (e.g., as Fig.29B shown).

[0201] FIG. 30A to FIG. 30E Another assembly 3000 including a single multi-jointed finger play piece is illustrated. Similar to other finger play pieces in the present disclosure, each joint in assembly 3000 can be transitioned between a first state and a second state, wherein the transition provides a tactile click / snap response. Fig. 30A The assembly 3000 is illustrated with each joint in a first state, and Fig. 30B The assembly 3000 is illustrated with each connector in a second state. As illustrated, the assembly 3000 includes an end 3002 defining a coupling feature formed with an aperture configured to receive a complementary shaped protrusion.

[0202] Fig.31 Yet another assembly 3100 of the present disclosure is illustrated, which shows that the finger toys, building elements, and assemblies of the present disclosure are not limited to purely geometric implementations. For example, assembly 3100 resembles an anthropomorphic figure including a plurality of anatomical finger toys and a hinge, similar to other assemblies previously described herein. In particular, assembly 3100 includes finger toys 3102a to 3102d operably coupled to hinges 3104a to 3104b via coupling features as described above.

[0203] The finger toys 3102a, 3102b are similar to arms and are connected to a multi-planar hub 3104a similar to a shoulder. Therefore, the connecting elements of the finger toys 3102a-3102b and the hub 3104a can be ball-and-socket type structures to simulate the human range of motion. The joints 3108a, 3108b are interference joints as described above and are positioned as elbows. An optional attachment 3106 similar to a head can be connected to the hub 3104a. Other embodiments may include additional attachments, such as a tail.

[0204] Hub 3104a is connected to hub 3104b by a multi-joint finger play piece 3102e similar to a spine. Finger play piece 3102e includes at least two interference joints as described above, and includes a socket-type coupling feature at the lower end for coupling with the ball-type coupling feature of hub 3104b.

[0205] Hub 3104b is a multi-planar hub that resembles a pelvis and has coupling features for coupling to finger play pieces 3102c to 3102d. As shown, the coupling features are arranged in different planes.

[0206] Finger pieces 3102c, 3102d resemble legs, with joints 3108c, 3108d positioned as knees. Advantageously, interference joints 3108a to 3108d enable assembly 3100 to be positioned in different postures, poses, or positions.

[0207] The aforementioned assembly 3100 represents only one potential assembly formed by the construction elements of the present disclosure. Obviously, in other embodiments, the assembly can resemble a vehicle, a building, or other structure.

[0208] The foregoing description introduces a number of representative finger play pieces, hubs, assemblies thereof, grids, and construction kits that demonstrate the breadth of the present invention. The present disclosure includes additional finger play pieces having any combination of the different types of interference joints, coupling features, and retaining features described herein. The present disclosure also includes additional hubs having any number of vertices and any combination of coupling feature types and retaining feature types. To reiterate, different types of coupling features and retaining features may be freely combined.

[0209] The present disclosure does not limit the aesthetic elements of finger toys, hubs, and other components. Finger toys, hubs, and other components may have any suitable decorative design. For example, hubs and finger toys may be any color (including multiple colors) and / or may be printed on or otherwise decorated with graphics and similar elements (e.g., text, logos, etc.). Similarly, the present disclosure does not limit the tactile or similar aspects of finger toys and other components. For example, finger toys and other components according to the present disclosure may include one or more surfaces that are textured, embossed, embossed, recessed, etc.

[0210] As used herein, unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms generally have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Generally, the nomenclature used herein is those well known and commonly used in the art.

[0211] As used herein, the articles "a" and "an" refer to one or to more than one (ie, to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article. By way of example, "an element" means one element or more than one element.

[0212] The expression "at least one of A, B, or C" includes all of the following: A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, ABC.

[0213] As used herein, the term "about" will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art and will vary to some extent depending on the context in which it is used. As used herein, when referring to a measurable value such as an amount, duration, etc., "about" is meant to encompass variations from the specified value of ±20% or ±10%, more preferably ±5%, even more preferably ±1%, and still more preferably ±0.1%, as such variations are suitable for performing the disclosed methods.

[0214] Throughout the present disclosure, various aspects of the present disclosure can be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description of the range format is only for convenience and brevity, and should not be interpreted as an unchangeable limitation to the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the description of the range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all possible sub-ranges and each numerical value in the range, and when appropriate, discloses a partial integer of the numerical value in the range. For example, the description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed sub-ranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6, and each numeral in the range, such as 1, 2, 2.7, 3, 4, 5, 5.3 and 6. Regardless of the width of the range, this applies.

[0215] While the description herein contains many example implementations, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure but rather as merely providing illustrative examples.

[0216] All references throughout this disclosure (e.g., including patent documents such as issued or issued patents or their equivalents; patent application publications; and non-patent literature documents or other source materials) are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as if individually incorporated by reference, to the extent each reference is at least partially inconsistent with the disclosure in this application (e.g., a partially inconsistent reference is incorporated by reference except for the partially inconsistent portion of the reference).

[0217] Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to determine many equivalents of the specific procedures, embodiments, claims, and embodiments described herein using only routine experiments. Such equivalents are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure and are covered by the appended claims. Generally speaking, the terms and phrases used herein have their art-recognized meanings, which can be found by reference to standard texts, journal references, and contexts known to those skilled in the art. Any of the foregoing definitions are provided to clarify their specific use in the context of the present disclosure.

[0218] It should be understood that no matter what values ​​and ranges are provided herein, all values ​​and ranges encompassed by these values ​​and ranges are intended to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, the present disclosure is also intended to fall within all values ​​within these ranges and the upper or lower limits of the value ranges.

[0219] The disclosures of each patent, patent application, and publication cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0220] Although the present disclosure includes references to specific embodiments, it is apparent that other embodiments and variations of the present disclosure may be designed by others skilled in the art without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. The appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including all such embodiments and equivalent variations.

Claims

1. A fingertip toy, comprising: a first segment and a second segment connected by a joint comprising a living hinge, wherein interference members of the joint interfere when the joint transitions between a first state and a second state, Wherein the first segment and the second segment each include a first retention feature disposed on a same first side of the first segment and the second segment, wherein the first retention feature reversibly retains the first segment to the second segment in the second state. 2 . The toy according to claim 1 , wherein the interference member comprises interlocking ends of the first section and the second section.

3. The toy of claim 2, wherein the interlocking ends define a socket and a protrusion. 4 . The toy according to claim 3 , wherein the socket interferes with the protrusion when the joint is in the first state. 5 . The toy of claim 4 , wherein in the first state, the first section and the second section are longitudinally aligned, wherein in the second state, the first section and the second section are not longitudinally aligned. 6 . The toy according to claim 5 , wherein the socket and the protrusion are released from interference when the joint is transitioned out of the interference state. 7 . The toy according to claim 6 , wherein the first section and the second section each include a tab disposed at a distal end of the first section and the second section. 8 . The fingertip toy of claim 1 , wherein in the first state, the first section and the second section are longitudinally aligned, wherein in the second state, the first section and the second section are not longitudinally aligned. 9 . The fingertip toy according to claim 8 , wherein the interference member interferes when the joint is in the first state.

10. The fingertip toy of claim 9, wherein at least one of the interference members is flexible.

11. The fingertip toy of claim 10, wherein at least one of the interference members deforms to release. 12 . The fingertip toy according to claim 11 , wherein the first section and the second section each include a tab provided at a distal end of the first section and the second section.

13. The fingertip toy according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the interference member interferes when the joint is in the first state.

14. The fingertip toy according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the interference member is released from interference when the joint is transformed out of the interference state.

15. The fingertip toy of claim 14, wherein the interference member releases when the first section and the second section form an internal angle below a flexion threshold.

16. The fingertip toy of claim 14, wherein the interference member deforms to release.

17. The fingertip toy of claim 14, wherein the release of the interference member produces an audible snap response.

18. The fingertip toy of claim 14, wherein the release of the interference member produces a tactile snap response.

19. The fingertip toy of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least one of the interference members is flexible.

20. The fidget toy of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the living hinge is offset from a mid-plane of at least one of the first section or the second section.

21. The fingertip toy according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the interference member comprises a plurality of links, each link extending from an end of the first segment or the second segment.

22. A fingertip toy according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first section and the second section each include a second retention feature disposed on a same second side of the first section and the second section, wherein the second retention feature is configured to reversibly retain the first section to the second section.

23. The fingertip toy according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first section and the second section each include a coupling feature formed as a protrusion or a recess provided at a distal end of the first section and the second section.

24. The fingertip toy of claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising a third section connected to the second section by a second joint, wherein a second interference member of the second joint interferes when the second joint transitions between the first state and the second state.

25. A toy, comprising: An assembly comprising a plurality of hubs connected to a plurality of finger play pieces, Each finger play piece includes a first section and a second section, wherein the first section and the second section are connected by a joint including a movable hinge, wherein an interference member of the joint interferes when the joint transitions between a first state and a second state, wherein the first section and the second section each include a first retaining feature disposed on the same first side of the first section and the second section, wherein the first retaining feature reversibly retains the first section to the second section in the second state, wherein the assembly has two or more independent degrees of freedom.

26. The toy of claim 25, wherein the interference member comprises interlocking ends of the first section and the second section.

27. The toy of claim 26, wherein the interlocking ends define a socket and a protrusion.

28. A toy according to claim 25 or claim 26, wherein the interference member interferes when the joint is in the first state.

29. A toy according to claim 25 or claim 26, wherein the toy is configured to be turned inside out without separating the finger play piece from the hinge.

30. A toy, comprising: An assembly comprising a plurality of hubs coupled to a plurality of finger play pieces, wherein each finger play piece comprises a first section and a second section, the first section and the second section being connected by a joint comprising a living hinge, wherein interference members of the joint interfere when the joint transitions between a first state and a second state, wherein the first section and the second section each comprise a first retaining feature disposed on a common first side of the first section and the second section, wherein the first retaining feature reversibly retains the first section to the second section in the second state, The assembly is configurable between a plurality of stable closed configurations and a plurality of unstable closed configurations.

31. The toy of claim 30, wherein the interference member comprises interlocking ends of the first section and the second section.

32. A toy according to claim 30 or claim 31, wherein in each of the stable closed configurations, the plurality of finger play pieces are stable in the first state or the second state.

33. The toy of claim 32, wherein in each of the unstable closed configurations, at least one of the plurality of finger play pieces is free to bend about the joint.

34. A toy according to claim 30 or claim 31, wherein the toy is configured to be turned inside out without separating the plurality of finger play pieces from the hinge.

35. A construction kit comprising: A finger play piece, the finger play piece comprising a first section and a second section, the first section and the second section being connected by a joint comprising a living hinge, wherein interference members of the joint interfere when the joint transitions between a first state and a second state, wherein the first section and the second section each comprise a first retaining feature disposed on a same first side of the first section and the second section, wherein the first retaining feature reversibly retains the first section to the second section in the second state, wherein the first section and the second section each comprise a hinge connection feature disposed at a distal end of the first section and the second section; and a hub defining a plurality of finger-play attachment features disposed about the body; The hinge connection feature is reversibly connected to the finger play piece connection feature.

36. The construction kit of claim 35, wherein the interference member comprises interlocking ends of the first section and the second section.

37. The construction kit of claim 35, wherein the finger play pieces and the hinges form a grid, wherein the hinge coupling features and the finger play piece coupling features couple together.

38. The construction kit of claim 35, wherein the hinge coupling feature and the finger play piece coupling feature comprise complementary structures, the complementary structures comprising: Slot and tab or ball joint and socket.

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