Modular building element base

Abstract

A modular building element base (200) comprising-a building plate (201) having a building area (A) formed on an upward facing surface (41) thereof and a set of building plate edges (210, 211, 212, 213, 214) at an outer peripheral edge of the building area (A), and-a frame (202) surrounding the building plate on each building plate edge of the set of building plate edges (210, 211, 212, 213, 214) wherein the frame (202) comprises a set of frame portions, wherein each frame portion is adjacent to one of the plate edges, and wherein at least one of the frame portions (221, 222, 223, 224) comprises a scale (300) having digital indicia (301) disposed on an outer surface of the frame portions (221, 222, 223, 224).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to modular construction systems and, more particularly, to bases for modular building elements. Background Art

[0002] Modular building elements (such as those used in structural construction or assembly) typically consist of interconnected parts that form various structures. A common drawback of existing designs in this field is the difficulty in quickly and accurately determining the precise position or orientation of modular elements on the base portion. This problem complicates the assembly process, increases the likelihood of errors, and reduces overall efficiency. Therefore, there is a need for an improved base portion for modular building elements that addresses these limitations by facilitating easier and more accurate positioning of the elements during assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One objective of the present disclosure is to alleviate the problems of the prior art bases for modular building elements.

[0004] Another objective of the present disclosure is to increase the diversity of choices.

[0005] In one aspect, these objectives are achieved by a base for modular building elements, which includes:

[0006] - A building plate having a building area A formed on its upper surface, and a set of building plate edges at the outer periphery of the building area A, and

[0007] - A frame that surrounds the building plate on each building plate edge of the set of building plate edges, where the frame includes a set of frame portions, and each frame portion is adjacent to one of the plate edges,

[0008] where at least one frame portion includes a scale having numerical markings provided on the outer surface of the frame portion.

[0009] The building plate can be formed as a polygon. In some embodiments, the building plate is rectangular or square, but the building plate can have other shapes.

[0010] Each frame portion is parallel to the building plate edge.

[0011] Each frame portion can extend along the entire length of the corresponding building plate edge.

[0012] A subgroup of the building plate edges can be provided with frame portions. In some embodiments, all building plate edges can be provided with frame portions.

[0013] In some embodiments, when the building board includes two parallel building board edges, each having an adjacent frame portion, a scale can be provided on each of a pair of parallel frame portions.

[0014] In one embodiment, the building board on one side includes first connectors arranged in a regular two-dimensional array, where each first connector is configured to connect to a complementary second connector of another modular building element.

[0015] In one embodiment, the first connectors are provided on the upper surface of the building board.

[0016] In one embodiment, the first connectors are integrally formed with the building board.

[0017] Alternatively, the first connectors are integrally formed on at least one board element that is removably mounted to the upper surface of the building board, and

[0018] where the dimensions of the building board and the frame are such that when at least one board element is disposed adjacent to the frame portion carrying the scale, the first connectors provided on the board element are aligned with the numerical markings of the scale.

[0019] In another embodiment, the frame has an upper frame surface that is higher than the upper surface of the building board.

[0020] In one embodiment, a subgroup of the frame portions of the frame is integrally formed with the building board.

[0021] In one of the embodiments, the board edge of the building board that does not have an integrally formed frame portion can be provided with a removably attached frame portion.

[0022] In another embodiment, all board edges of (the building board 201) are provided with frame portions, and all of these frame portions are integrally formed with the building board.

[0023] Alternatively, all board edges of the building board are provided with frame portions, and all of these frame portions are formed to be removably attached to the building board.

[0024] In embodiments where the modular building element base includes removably attached frame portions, some or all of these frame portions can be formed as one or more components that are removably attached to each other and / or removably attached to the building board.

[0025] In another embodiment, the first connector is a coupling knob / stud.

[0026] In another embodiment, the numerical markings of the scale indicate the increments of multiple connectors.

[0027] In one embodiment, the scale indicates length or width in 4-step increments of the connecting member.

[0028] In one embodiment, the numerical markings of the scale show increments of four first connecting members.

[0029] In another embodiment, the upper surface of the building plate includes line markings for one or more numerical markings of the scale, where each line marking extends perpendicular to the frame portion where the scale is located, and where each line marking is aligned with a numerical marking.

[0030] In another embodiment, the modular building element base forms a cover for a combination of a modular construction system that includes a cover and a box element,

[0031] wherein the box element includes a bottom wall and a set of side walls extending from the bottom wall, and an upward peripheral edge defined on the outer peripheral surface of the side walls, and

[0032] wherein the cover includes

[0033] - an upward surface,

[0034] - a downward surface on the underside of the cover; and

[0035] - an outer peripheral edge for engaging with the upward peripheral edge of the outer peripheral surface when the cover is disposed on the box element to form an enclosed box, and

[0036] wherein the frame is provided by a bead that extends above the upward surface of the cover and at least partially forms along the edge of the cover.

[0037] In another embodiment, one or more ramp angles are provided on the underside of the cover, and one or more of the ramp angles are configured to engage a portion of the upward peripheral edge of the box element to seat the cover against the box element.

[0038] This allows the cover to be used as a ramp, for example, enabling a vehicle formed by one or more modular building elements to roll down an inclined ramp.

[0039] More specifically, the upward surface of the cover can be used as a ramp.

[0040] One or more ramp angles can cause the cover to engage the upward edge of the box element such that the cover can form a ramp inclined relative to the surface S on which the box element is placed, and one edge of the cover contacts the same surface. The ramp angle will engage the edge of the upward edge of the box element, thereby preventing the cover from sliding relative to the box element.

[0041] The side walls of the cartridge element may include a pair of long side walls (arranged parallel to each other) and a pair of short side walls (arranged parallel to each other), wherein the long side walls are perpendicular to the short side walls. Thus, the cartridge element may be in a rectangular shape. In any case, the size and shape of the lid are adapted to cooperate with the cartridge element to form a closed cartridge.

[0042] The lid may be plate-like and include a plate member.

[0043] The outer peripheral edge may be formed as a downward outer peripheral edge. In this case, the outer peripheral edge is formed on the outer peripheral flange of the lid. Such a flange may extend downward from the plate member of the lid.

[0044] The "ramp angle" may also be referred to as the "edge joint".

[0045] The outer peripheral edge of the lid includes a set of outer peripheral edge portions, each outer peripheral edge portion being formed at the edge of the lid. In one embodiment, the outer peripheral edge of the lid includes four outer peripheral edge portions, each outer peripheral edge portion being formed at one of the four edges of the lid. The outer peripheral edge of the lid may face downward and be perpendicular to the downward and upward surfaces of the lid.

[0046] The ramp angle may be adjacent to the outer peripheral edge. The ramp angle may have an elongated shape extending perpendicular to the adjacent edge portion.

[0047] In another embodiment, a pair of ramp angles are provided on the lid, each of the two ramp angles of the pair of ramp angles being arranged along the parallel edge portions of the lid.

[0048] In another embodiment, the cartridge element and the lid are in an elongated shape, having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis, wherein the longitudinal axis is longer than the transverse axis, and wherein the ramp angle is arranged along the long edge portion of the lid parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0049] In one embodiment, a hem extending above the upward surface of the lid is formed at least partially along the edge of the lid.

[0050] The outer peripheral flange of the lid having a downward outer peripheral edge may form part of the hem.

[0051] In another embodiment, the ramp angle is provided at the end of the lid in the longitudinal direction of the lid.

[0052] In one of the embodiments, two or more pairs of ramp angles are arranged at each end of the lid in the longitudinal direction.

[0053] This causes the lid to form a number of predetermined angles relative to the surface on which the lid and the cartridge element are placed.

[0054] In another embodiment, the ramp angle is a notch formed in the downward-facing edge of the lid.

[0055] In principle, the downwardly facing edge of the cover can be the peripheral edge of the cover, in which case it can be formed on a downwardly extending flange of the cover. However, in some embodiments, the downwardly facing edge is separated from the peripheral edge and arranged parallel to it, for example in a groove formed inside the curling edge.

[0056] In an alternative embodiment, the ramp angle can be provided as a protrusion extending from the underside of the cover. For example, such a protrusion can be a flange stud or a knob.

[0057] In another embodiment, the curl is discontinuous in its longitudinal portion such that the upwardly directed surface of the cover extends to an outermost edge of the cover.

[0058] This will allow the passage of a vehicle of the modular construction system. Such a vehicle may be a sled or a car formed from one or more modular construction elements.

[0059] In one of the embodiments, the box element and the cover are of elongated shape having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis, wherein the longitudinal axis is longer than the transverse axis, and wherein the discontinuity of the curling edge 7 is provided at a short peripheral edge portion of the cover.

[0060] In the present application, the terms upwards and downwards are used. It is emphasized that "upwards", "downwards" etc. refer to the situation that the modular construction element base and the combination of box elements and lids are arranged on a surface (e.g. a floor or a table) and the lid / modular construction element base is located at an upward surface facing away from the surface on which the lid / modular construction element base is placed, and such that the upward surface of the lid / modular construction element base is parallel to the surface on which the lid / modular construction element base is placed. It should be understood that in various uses of the lid / modular construction element base, the lid / modular construction element base may be oriented in different directions.

[0061] The modular building element base itself can be regarded as a modular construction element of a modular construction system. The modular building element base and other modular construction elements of the modular construction system may include connectors, which may also be referred to as coupling members, suitable for mechanically connecting the modular construction elements to each other in a detachable manner to build a toy or educational construction model. The connectors / coupling members of the modular construction elements may include connectors / coupling members using friction engagement, snap-fit engagement or a combination of the two to support the detachable connection between the modular construction elements. Alternatively or additionally, a detachable mechanical connection can also be formed between the modular construction elements using a coupling member that provides a detachable shape-locking positive connection. Alternatively or additionally, a magnetic connector / coupling member (i.e., a mating connector / coupling member that relies on magnetic attraction) can also be used to form a detachable mechanical connection between the modular construction elements.

[0062] It should be emphasized that the terms "comprises", "comprising", "comprised of" as used in this specification are used to specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0063] Hereinafter, the modular building element base will be described in more detail with reference to the embodiments shown in the drawings. It should be emphasized that the embodiments shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not to be used to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 1 The combination of the box element and the lid is shown in a perspective view, where the lid rests on the edge of the box element;

[0065] Figure 2 Shown in a perspective view is Figure 1 the combination of, where the lid is placed and fixed on the box element to provide a closed box;

[0066] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the combination when the lid is placed and fixed on the box element to provide Figure 2 the closed box shown, where the cross-section is a vertical cross-section taken at an uninterrupted position of the side wall of the box element;

[0067] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the combination when the lid is placed and fixed on the box element to provide Figure 2 the closed box shown, where the cross-section is a vertical cross-section taken at the position where the locking element is provided on the box element and engages the lid;

[0068] Figure 5 The lid of the combination is shown in a perspective view as seen from below;

[0069] Figure 6 is a top view of the lid of the combination;

[0070] Figure 7 is a detailed view of a part of the lid;

[0071] Figure 8 Shown in a perspective view is Figure 1 the combination of, where the lid is placed and fixed on the box element to provide a closed box, and where two plate-like modular construction elements are placed on the lid of the combination;

[0072] FIG. 9A shows in a perspective view two toy construction elements of a modular toy construction system, where the two toy construction elements are connected / coupled to each other,

[0073] Figure 9B shows a toy construction element of Figure 9A as viewed from below in a bottom view;

[0074] Figure 9C shows two toy construction elements of Figure 9A in a partial cross-sectional view, where the two toy construction elements are in the process of being connected to each other or disconnected from each other. Detailed Description

[0075] Figure 6 Shows an embodiment of the modular building element base 200 in a top view.

[0076] In some embodiments, the modular building element base 200 can form the lid 6 in the combination 1 of the box element 3 and the lid 6, where the combination 1 can also be part of the modular construction system 100. However, the modular building element base 200 itself can form an entity, i.e., without any features that can be used as the lid 6.

[0077] In all the figures and parts of the description, the modular building element base 200 is described in the context of such a lid 6, but as mentioned above, the modular building element base 200 itself can form an entity, i.e., without any features that can be used as the lid 6.

[0078] As mentioned above, the combination can form part of the modular construction system 100. In addition, the modular building element base 200 itself can form part of the modular construction system 100.

[0079] The modular construction system 100 can be a modular construction system 100 for educational purposes and / or a modular toy construction system.

[0080] Such a modular construction system 100 is known in the art, for example, under the brand name "LEGO".

[0081] It is known that such a modular construction system 100 has a modular structure, where the elements or components of the modular construction system can be interconnected by construction with mating coupling devices (such as coupling knobs or studs, which are constructed for engagement with corresponding knob / stud receiving openings, as shown in Figures 9A - C).

[0082] Figures 9A - C show examples of construction elements or toy construction elements of the modular construction system 100. Such toy construction elements of the modular construction system 100 are generally formed of a polymeric material (such as plastic) and are generally fabricated using an injection molding process.

[0083] Figures 9A and 9C show two substantially identical toy construction elements 102A, 102B in the shape of building blocks. Each of these toy construction elements 102A, 102B includes a body portion 103 having a top surface 104 on which eight first connectors 900 are constructed. The cylindrical connectors 900 can also be referred to as coupling studs or coupling knobs, or simply as knobs 901. The cylindrical connectors 900 are formed in a regular two-dimensional array or grid or mesh (in this case a 2×4 grid) on the construction elements 102A, 102B. The cylindrical connector 900 includes a body 905 having an outer cylindrical surface 910.

[0084] The body portions 103 of the construction elements 102A, 102B include side walls 106A, 106B, 106C and 106D which are constructed with a lowermost edge 107 that forms the placement surface of the construction elements 102A, 102B.

[0085] Figure 1 Toy construction elements 102A, 102B of the type shown also include a set of cylinders 911 that extend downwardly from the lower surface 912 of the top wall 105 that joins the side walls 106A-D of the construction elements 102A, 102B. A knob receiving opening 902 is formed between the inner surface 116 of the side walls 106A-D and the outer surface 915 of one or more of the cylinders 911.

[0086] The knob 901 and the knob receiving opening 902 are constructed to mate in a press fit / interference fit manner to releasably attach to each other.

[0087] When the side walls 106A, 106B, 106C, 106D are pressed down onto the coupling studs 901 of the lowermost construction element 102B, the side walls 106A, 106B, 106C, 106D of the uppermost construction element 102A are pressed outwardly and then the side walls 106A-D press against the coupling studs 901 of the lowermost construction element 102B and the outer surface 914 of the cylinders 911, and the construction elements 102A, 102B of the type shown in Figures 9A-9C are connected to each other in an interference fit (press fit) manner.

[0088] As shown, the elongated rib 917 can extend outward from the inner surface 916 of the side walls 106A-D and be formed from the lower surface 912 of the wall 913 all the way to the lower edge 107. The elongated rib can constitute the contact between the knob 901 and the side walls 106A-D. In Fig. 9B, the toy construction elements 102A, 102B are shown as viewed from below, and the knobs 901 of the second coupling toy construction elements are shown in dashed lines. Each knob 901 of the 2x4 toy construction elements 102A, 102B is inserted into a single knob receiving opening 902 of the shown toy construction elements 102A, 102B.

[0089] Fig. 9C shows two toy construction elements 102A and 102B as described above, where the two toy construction elements are in the process of being coupled or separated, in a coupled state or a decoupled state, as shown in Fig. 9A for example.

[0090] In the view shown in Fig. 9C, a cross-sectional view of the upper toy construction element 102A perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the toy construction element 102A is shown. The lowermost toy construction element is shown in a side view. Through this view, it can be understood how the knob 901 of one toy construction element 102B engages with a part of the inner surface 916 of the side wall of the toy construction element 102A and with the outer surface 914 of the cylinder 911 of another toy construction element 102A.

[0091] Fig. 9C further shows the modular distance M feature of the modular construction systems 100, 101. The modular distance M is defined by the distance between the connecting member 900, the first connecting member 901, and the second connecting member 902. The dimensions of the modular construction elements / building elements of the modular construction system conform to the modular distance M at least in the horizontal plane, that is, the length and width of the modular construction elements / building elements of the modular construction system are formed as integer increments of the modular distance.

[0092] The cylindrical connecting members 900 (such as the knobs 901 and the knob receiving openings 902) are formed on the construction elements 102A, 102B in the form of a regular two-dimensional grid, as shown in Figs. 9A - 9C for example, forming the basis of a plurality of modular construction systems known in the art.

[0093] According to an embodiment, the shape and size of the modular building element base 200 can form a component of such a modular construction system 100.

[0094] Now back to Figure 6 , generally the modular building element base 200 includes a building board 201 and a frame 202.

[0095] The building plate 201 includes a building area A formed on the upward surface 41 of the building plate 201, and a set of building plate edges 210, 211, 212, 213, 214 at the outer peripheral edge of the building area A.

[0096] The frame 202 surrounds the building plate 201 on each of the set of building plate edges 210, 211, 212, 213, 214.

[0097] The frame 202 includes a set of frame parts 221, 222, 223, 224, and each of the frame parts is disposed adjacent to one of the plate edges 211, 212, 213, 214.

[0098] At least one of the frame parts 221, 222, 223, 224 includes a scale 300, and the scale 300 has numerical markings 301 provided on the outer surface of the frame parts 221, 222, 223, 224.

[0099] The scale includes numerical markings 301 indicating distance.

[0100] The building plate 201 can be formed as a polygon. In some embodiments, the building plate 201 is square or rectangular, as for example Figure 6 shown. However, in principle, the building plate 201 can have other shapes.

[0101] Each of the frame parts 221, 222, 223, 224 is formed parallel to the building plate edges 211, 212, 213, 214. As for example Figure 6 illustrated, each frame part 211, 212, 213, 214 can extend along the entire length of the corresponding building plate edge 210, 211, 212, 213, 214.

[0102] In some embodiments (not shown), a subgroup of the building plate edges 210, 211, 212, 213, 214 can be provided with frame parts 211, 212, 213, 214. In other embodiments, and as for example Figure 6 shown, all of the building plate edges 210, 211, 212, 213, 214 are provided with frame parts 211, 212, 213, 214.

[0103] In some embodiments, when the building plate 201 includes two parallel building plate edges 111; 113, 112; 114, and each building plate edge has an adjacent frame part 211; 213, 212; 214, a scale 300 can be provided on each of a pair of parallel frame parts. This is also shown in Figure 6 wherein two long frame parts 212; 214 are provided with scales 300.

[0104] In the embodiments shown in the drawings, a scale 300 is provided on both of the two long frame portions 222, 224. However, it is understood that in other embodiments not shown, such a scale 300 may be provided on only one of the long frame portions 222, 224.

[0105] In principle, in general, the scale may also be provided on the short frame portions 221, 223, or alternatively, the scale may be provided on one or both of the short frame portions 221, 223.

[0106] Thus, in general, such a scale 300 or multiple scales may indicate the length or width of the plate area A or both.

[0107] This will allow the user to determine the positioning / position of an object on the plate area A relative to the frame portion 2 on which the scale is provided. Such an object may be, for example, a vehicle as described below.

[0108] For example, the modular building element base 200 may be used as a ramp for a vehicle to roll or slide on (by leaning the modular building element base 200 against another item, such as Figure 1 the box element 3 shown), and the user can compare, between tests, how high the vehicle must be placed on the ramp to roll / slide a certain distance. Thus, the scale markings may allow the user to conduct tests, for example, for educational purposes.

[0109] The scale 300 may be formed as an integral part of the frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224 on which it is provided. For example, the markings 301 of the scale may be integrally formed with the frame portion, such as when the frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224 are formed of plastic, for example, by an injection molding process.

[0110] Also as shown, the scale 300 indicates at least the distance in the longitudinal direction of the plate area A.

[0111] The scale 300 is provided on the outer surface of the frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224, for example, on the upward-facing surface of the frame 202, for example, on the upward-facing surface 48' of the top flange wall 48, as described below.

[0112] In principle, the markings 301 of the scale 300 may provide distances in known units of measurement (such as inches or centimeters).

[0113] However, in some embodiments, the scale 300 indicates length or width in increments of the modular distance M of the modular construction system 100 of which the modular building element base 200 may form a part. The scale 300 may indicate length or width with markings 301 that are numerical symbols.

[0114] As Figure 7 shown in the detailed view of Figure 7 , the scale 300 can indicate length or width in 4-step increments of the modular distance M of the modular construction system 100. It should be understood that other integer increments of the modular distance M are possible, such as 2 steps (2, 4, 6, ...), or 5 steps (5, 10, 15, 20, ...), or 10 steps (10, 20, 30, ...).

[0115] As Figure 7 best shown in the detailed view of Figure 7 , in some embodiments, the upper surface 41 of the plate member 40 / erecting plate 201 can include a line marker 350 in addition to the scale for one or more markers 301 (numerical symbols) of the scale 300. Each line marker 350 extends perpendicular to the frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224 on which the scale 300 is located. Each line marker 350 can be aligned with a numerical marker 301 of the scale 300.

[0116] The line marker 350 can be formed as an integral part of the erecting plate 201. For example, the line marker 350 of the scale can be integrally formed with the erecting plate 201 by an injection molding process.

[0117] It should also be understood that the length and width of the plate area A formed by the upper surface 41 of the cover 6 can also be dimensioned in increments of the modular distance of the modular construction system 100 as described above. In this case, the scale 300 is at least aligned with the increment of the length of the plate area A.

[0118] In some embodiments, the length and width of the plate area A formed by the upper surface 41 of the modular erecting element base 200 are dimensioned in increments of the modular distance of the modular construction system.

[0119] In some embodiments (not shown), the erecting plate 201 on one side (upper side 44) includes first connectors 900, 901 arranged in a regular two-dimensional array, where each first connector 900 is configured to connect to a complementary second connector 900, 902 of another modular erecting element, as illustrated above in connection with FIGS. 9A-9C.

[0120] In other embodiments of such an embodiment (not shown), the first connectors 900, 901 can be integrally formed with the erecting plate 201.

[0121] Alternatively, such first connectors 900, 901 can be integrally formed on at least one plate element 60, as Figure 8 shown. The plate element 60 is detachably attached to the erecting plate 201, as Figure 8As shown, it can be attached to the upper surface of the building board 201. The dimensions of the building board 201 and the frame 202 are such that when at least one board element 60 is disposed adjacent to the frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224 of the carrying scale 300, the first connectors 900, 901 provided on the board element 60 are aligned with the numerical markings 301 of the scale 300.

[0122] In some embodiments, the frame 202 has an upper frame surface 48' that is higher than the upper surface 41 of the building board 201.

[0123] In some embodiments (not shown), a subgroup of the frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224 of the frame 202 is integrally formed with the building board 201.

[0124] In this case, when some of the board edges 110, 111, 112, 113, 114 of the building board 201 do not have integrally formed frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224, these board edges 110, 111, 112, 113, 114 can be provided with removably attached frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224.

[0125] Alternatively, and as illustrated in the drawings, all of the board edges 210, 211, 212, 213, 214 of the building board 201 are provided with frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224, and these frame portions are integrally formed with the building board 201.

[0126] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), all of the building board edges 110, 111, 112, 113, 114 of the building board 201 are provided with frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224. In such an embodiment, all of the frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224 are formed to be removably attached to the building board 201, for example, through the building board edges 110, 111, 112, 113, 114 and a single frame portion 221, 222, 223, 224 having mating coupling means.

[0127] In embodiments where the modular building element base 200 includes such removably attached frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224, some or all of these frame portions 221, 222, 223, 224 can be formed as one or more components that are removably attached to each other and / or removably attached to the building board 201.

[0128] In all of the above embodiments, the first connectors 900, 901 can be coupling knobs / studs.

[0129] Also as mentioned above in some embodiments, the modular building element base 200 can be embodied by the lid 6 for the cartridge element 3.

[0130] Therefore, returning to Figure 1 , a combination 1 of the cartridge element 3 and the lid 6 is shown, where the lid 6 can represent the modular building element base 200 as described above. In an embodiment, the shapes and dimensions of the cartridge 10, the lid 6, and their combination 1 can form parts of the modular construction system 100 as described above.

[0131] The cartridge element 3 and the lid 6 can together form a cartridge 2, which can be in a closed state where the lid 6 covers the opening 5 leading to the inner space 4 of the cartridge element 3, and the cartridge 2 can be in an open state where the lid 6 is removed from the cartridge element 3, enabling access to the inner space 4 of the cartridge element 3.

[0132] Figure 1 A combination 1 in an open state is shown, where the lid 6 is removed from the cartridge element 3 and rests against the upward peripheral edge 30 of the cartridge element 3. Figure 2 A combination 1 as a closed cartridge 2 is shown, where the lid 6 is arranged to cover the opening 5 leading to the inner space 4 of the cartridge element 3.

[0133] The cartridge element 3 includes a bottom wall 10 and a set of side walls 20 that are connected to the bottom wall 10 and extend upward from the bottom wall 10. The upward peripheral edge 30 is defined as the top edge formed on the side walls 20. An inner space 4 is defined between the side walls 20 and the bottom wall 10. The upward peripheral edge 30 defines an upward opening 5, allowing a user to place an object into or remove an object from the inner space 4.

[0134] In some embodiments, and as for example Figure 1 shown, the cartridge element 3 has four side walls 21, 22, 23, 24. Thus, the upward peripheral edge 30 of the cartridge element 3 includes four partial edges 31, 32, 33, 34, with one partial edge defined on each of the side walls 21, 22, 23, 24.

[0135] Therefore, the upward opening 5 leading to the inner space 4 of the cartridge element 3 is defined between the partial edges 31, 32, 33, 34 of the upward peripheral edge 30. An object can be stored in the inner space 4 of the cartridge element 3 by placing the object through the upward opening 5.

[0136] In some embodiments, and as for example Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the cartridge element 3 has an elongated cartridge shape and may also be referred to as a rectangular shape (in a cross-section parallel to the bottom wall 10). Thus, the side walls 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 of the cartridge element 3 may include a pair of long side walls 22, 24 arranged parallel to each other, and a pair of short side walls 21, 23 that are also parallel to each other, wherein the long side walls 22, 24 are perpendicular to the short side walls 21, 23. In this embodiment, the lid 6 has a corresponding elongated or rectangular shape.

[0137] It should be understood that in principle the cartridge element 3 may have other shapes. For example, the cartridge element 3 may have three side walls. In other embodiments, the cartridge element may have four side walls of equal length, thus having a square shape (in a cross-section parallel to the bottom wall 10). In this embodiment, the lid 6 has a corresponding square shape.

[0138] In principle, the cartridge element 3 may also have other shapes (in a cross-section parallel to the bottom wall 10). In any case, the lid 6 has a corresponding shape.

[0139] We also note that, as shown, the intersections between adjacent side walls may be rounded, see Figure 1 . This will help prevent objects stored in the cartridge element 3 from getting stuck in the corners.

[0140] As Figure 3 and Figure 4 shown, in some embodiments, the side walls may include a double-wall structure, wherein each of the side walls 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 includes an outer wall 26 and an inner wall 27. In this case, the above-mentioned partial edges 31, 32, 33, 34 of the outer peripheral surface towards the upper edge 30 are formed by flanges extending upward from the connecting wall 28 that extends between the inner wall 26 and the outer wall 27 of each of the side walls 20, 21, 22, 23, 24.

[0141] In other embodiments not shown, the side wall 20 may be a single-wall structure, and the above-mentioned partial edges 31, 32, 33, 34 of the outer peripheral surface towards the upper edge 30 are simply formed as the upper edge of the side wall 20.

[0142] In any case, the cartridge element may be made of plastic, for example by an injection molding process.

[0143] In some embodiments, the set of side walls and the bottom wall are formed as a single-piece element. However, in other embodiments, the side wall 20 may be detachably attached to the bottom 10, or as a set of integrally formed side walls 20 and detachably attached to the bottom, or wherein a single side wall 21, 22, 23, 24 or a subgroup thereof is detachably attached to the bottom.

[0144] The lid 6 is generally plate-shaped and includes a flat plate-shaped main body portion or plate member 40. The size and shape of the lid 6 can be adapted to the cartridge element 3 such that when the lid 6 is mounted on the cartridge element 3, the combination 1 of the cartridge and the lid forms a closed cartridge, as Figure 2 shown, thereby closing the upward opening 5 of the cartridge element 3. The lid is detachably attached to the cartridge element 3.

[0145] The lid 6 includes an upward surface 41, a downward surface 42 opposite thereto, and an outer peripheral edge 50. The upward surface 41 is formed on the upper side of the plate member 40, and the downward surface 42 is formed on the lower side of the plate member 40. The downward surface 42 is located on the lower side 44 of the plate member 40 of the lid 6.

[0146] As described above, the lid 6 further includes an outer peripheral edge 50 which is configured to engage with the upward edge 30 of the outer peripheral surface of the cartridge element 3 when the lid 6 is disposed on the cartridge element 3 to form a closed cartridge 2. Figure 2 The combination 1 of the cartridge element 3 and the lid 6 in a closed cartridge configuration is shown.

[0147] The outer peripheral edge 50 includes a set of outer peripheral edge portions 51, 52, 53, 54 provided along the edge of the plate member 40 of the lid 6, for example, the four outer peripheral edge portions 51, 52, 53, 54 shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer peripheral edge 50 is provided on the outer peripheral flange 50' of the lid 6. In an embodiment, the outer peripheral flange 50' extends downward from the outer edge of the plate member 40 of the lid 6. As for example Figure 3 shown, the outer peripheral flange 50' of the lid 6 is formed as part of a hem 7 which can be formed along the outer peripheral edge of the plate member 40 of the lid 6.

[0148] As shown in the figure, when the outer peripheral edge 50 is provided on the outer peripheral flange 50' as described in the previous paragraph, each of the outer peripheral edge portions 51, 52, 53, 54 of the outer peripheral edge 50 is formed on the outer peripheral flange portions 51', 52', 53', 54'.

[0149] In some embodiments, in the case where the cartridge element 3 and the lid 6 (in a cross-section parallel to the bottom wall 10) are elongate / rectangular in shape, the outer peripheral edge portions 51, 52, 53, 54 include two short outer peripheral edge portions 51, 53 (formed parallel to each other) and two long outer peripheral edge portions 52, 54 (formed parallel to each other and perpendicular to the two short outer peripheral edge portions 51, 53). Accordingly, the outer peripheral flange portions 51', 52', 53', 54' include two short outer peripheral flange portions 51', 53' (formed parallel to each other) and two long outer peripheral flange portions 52', 54' (formed parallel to each other and perpendicular to the two short outer peripheral flange portions 51', 53').

[0150] In some embodiments, when the cartridge element 3 and the lid 6 are in an elongated / rectangular shape (in a cross-section parallel to the bottom wall 10), the cartridge element 3 and the lid 6 can thus be said to each have an elongated shape with a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis. The length of the cartridge element 3 and the lid 6 in the longitudinal direction along the longitudinal axis is greater than the width of the cartridge element 3 and the lid 6 in the transverse direction along the transverse axis.

[0151] In some embodiments, and as shown, the lid 6 includes a curled edge 7. The curled edge extends above the upper surface 41 of the lid 6. This means that the surface of the curled edge 7 facing the upper surface extends above the upper surface 41 of the plate member 40 of the lid 6 in the vertical direction, perpendicular to the upper surface 41 of the plate member 40 of the lid 6.

[0152] The curled edge 7 is formed along the outer peripheral edge 45 of the plate-like member 40 (see Figure 3 ). Additionally, the curled edge 7 can be formed partially along the outer peripheral edge 45 of the plate-like member 40, as for example Figure 1 and Figure 2 shown. It can be said that the curled edge 7 is formed at least partially along the edge of the lid 6. Thus, an opening 46 is formed in the curled edge 7. The use of these openings 46 in the curled edge 7 will be further described below.

[0153] Now referring to Figure 3 , the curled edge 7 includes an inward curled edge wall 47, which faces the upper surface 41 of the lid 6 and extends upward from the same upper surface 41 of the lid 6. The inward curled edge wall 47 is connected to the plate member 40 of the lid 6. The connection between the inward curled edge wall 47 and the plate member 40 of the lid 6 is provided at the outer peripheral edge 45 of the plate-like member 40.

[0154] The curled edge 7 further includes a top curled edge wall 48, which is connected to the inward curled edge wall 47 and extends parallel to the upper surface 41 of the lid 6.

[0155] In addition, the curled edge 7 further includes a downwardly extending wall, which is the same as the outer peripheral flange 50' of the lid 6 in the embodiment shown in, for example, Figure 3 , i.e., provided by the outer peripheral flange portions 51', 52', 53', 54'. Thus, the outer peripheral flange and the downward outer peripheral edge 50 of the lid 50' can form part of the curled edge 7.

[0156] Therefore, the curled edge 7 is generally shaped to face downward or in an inverted U-shape. Thus, the curled edge 7 defines a downward-facing longitudinal groove 49.

[0157] As shown in, for example, Figure 5 , the downward-facing longitudinal groove 49 can be provided with struts 49' formed transverse to the longitudinal direction of the groove 49. Such struts 49 can be provided at regular intervals along the length direction of the curled edge 7 to increase the stability of the lid 6.

[0158] When the cartridge element 3 has the double-wall structure briefly described above, the width of the crimp 7 between the outer peripheral flange 50' of the lid 6 and the inwardly curled wall 47 is greater than that of the connecting wall 28, which is a wall extending horizontally (i.e., parallel to the plate member 40 of the lid 6) between the inner wall 27 and the outer wall 28 of each side wall.

[0159] In any case, the lid 6 can be made of plastic, for example by an injection molding process.

[0160] In some embodiments, the plate member 40 and the crimp 7 are formed as a single integral element. However, in other embodiments, the crimp 7 can be detachably attached to the bottom 10, or as a set of crimp portions integrally formed with each other and detachably attached to the plate member 40, or where individual crimp portions or sub-groups thereof are individually detachably attached to the bottom.

[0161] In some embodiments, and as for example Figure 3 shown, the lid 6 includes a lid support wall 55. The lid support wall 55 extends downwardly from the lid 6.

[0162] In an embodiment, as for example Figure 3 shown, the downwardly extending lid support wall 55 extends from the downwardly facing surface 48'' of the top crimp wall 48 of the crimp 7.

[0163] The lid support wall 55 includes a downwardly facing edge 56. The downwardly facing edge 56 is defined at the free end of the lid support wall 55, opposite to the position where the lid support wall 55 is connected to the lid 6.

[0164] As Figure 3 shown, in an embodiment where the cartridge element 3 has a double-wall structure, the lid support wall 55 is configured such that when the lid is disposed on the cartridge element 3 to form a closed cartridge 2, its downwardly facing edge 56 abuts against the connecting wall 28 of the cartridge element 3. Thus, when the lid 6 is disposed on the cartridge element 3 to form a closed cartridge 2, the support wall 55 can provide stability to the assembly 1.

[0165] In some embodiments, the lid support wall 55 is integrally formed with the crimp 7 and the lid 6.

[0166] The lid 6 further includes a ramp angle 9, which can be a semi-circular cut as shown. The ramp angle 9 is provided on the downward or lower side 44 of the lid 6, as will be described in further detail below. The ramp angle 9 is configured to engage a portion of the upward edge 30 of the outer peripheral surface of the cartridge element 3 such that the lid 6 rests on the cartridge element 3 without the cartridge element sliding, as Figure 1 shown. This enables the upward surface 41 of the lid 6 to be used as a ramp, for example for a vehicle formed by one or more modular building element bases to roll or slide down from the thus inclined ramp.

[0167] One or more such ramp angles 9 allow the cover 6 to engage the upward edge 30 of the box element 3 such that the cover 6 can form a ramp that is inclined relative to the surface S on which the box element 4 is placed, and one edge of the cover 6 contacts the same surface S. The ramp angle 9 will engage the upward edge 30 of the box element, thereby preventing the cover 6 from sliding relative to the box element 3.

[0168] As Figure 3 - 5 shown, the ramp angle 9 can be a notch 57 formed in the downward-facing edge 56 of the cover support wall 55 of the cover 6.

[0169] In principle, in an alternative embodiment, the downward-facing edge 54 of the cover 6 can be the outer peripheral edge 50 of the cover 6, in which case it can be formed on a downward-extending flange of the cover. However, in the embodiment and as illustrated above, the downward-facing edge 56 is separated from and parallel to the above-mentioned outer peripheral edge 50, for example, within a groove 49 formed inside the above-mentioned crimp 7.

[0170] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the ramp angle 8 can be provided as a protrusion extending from the lower side 44 of the cover 6. For example, such a protrusion can be a flange, a stud, or a knob. Generally, the ramp angle 9 can be located near the outer peripheral edge 50. In this case, the protruding ramp angle 9 can be in an elongated shape and extend perpendicular to the adjacent edge portion.

[0171] In general, one or more ramp angles 9 are provided on the lower side 44 of the cover 6 such that one or more ramp angles 9 are configured to engage a portion of the upward edge of the outer peripheral surface of the box element 3 to hold the cover against the box element.

[0172] As Figure 5 shown, the notches 57 forming the ramp angle 9 (formed in the downward-facing edge 56 of the cover support wall 55 of the cover 6) can be provided in pairs such that each of the two ramp angles 9 in the pair of ramp angles 9 is provided along the parallel edge portions 52, 54 of the cover 6.

[0173] In an embodiment, it is also possible that the ramp angle 9 is not formed as a notch 57 but as a protrusion extending downward from the lower surface 44 of the cover 6.

[0174] In some embodiments, and as for example Figure 5 shown, the notches 57 forming the ramp angle 9 are provided near the long outer peripheral flange portions 52', 54' of the cover 6, that is, along and adjacent to the long edge portions 42, 44 of the cover 6. The long edge portions 42, 44 are parallel to the above-mentioned longitudinal axis.

[0175] In an embodiment, it is also possible that the ramp angle 9 is not formed as a notch 57 but as a protrusion extending downward from the lower surface 44 of the cover 6.

[0176] In some embodiments, and as for example Figure 5 shown, the notches 57 forming the ramp angle 9 may be arranged in pairs at one end of the lid 6 in the longitudinal direction of the lid 6. In an embodiment, it is also possible that the ramp angle 9 is not formed as a notch 57 but as a protrusion extending downward from the lower surface 44 of the lid 6.

[0177] Furthermore, and also as Figure 5 shown, the notches 57 forming the ramp angle 9 may be arranged in pairs at both ends of the lid 6 in the longitudinal direction of the lid 6. In an embodiment, it is also possible that the ramp angle 9 is not formed as a notch 57 but as a protrusion extending downward from the lower surface 44 of the lid 6. This will allow the user to place the lid 6 as a ramp regardless of the orientation of the lid 6.

[0178] In some embodiments, and as for example Figure 5 shown, the notches 57 forming the ramp angle 9 may be arranged in two or more pairs at one end of the lid 6 in the longitudinal direction of the lid 6. In an embodiment, it is also possible that the ramp angle 9 is not formed as a notch 57 but as a protrusion extending downward from the lower surface 44 of the lid 6. This will allow the lid 6 to be set at a number of (two or more) predetermined angles relative to the surface S on which the lid 6 and the cartridge element 3 are placed.

[0179] Furthermore, and also as Figure 5 shown, the notches 57 forming the ramp angle 9 may be arranged in two or more pairs at both ends of the lid 6 in the longitudinal direction of the lid 6. In an embodiment, it is also possible that the ramp angle 9 is not formed as a notch 57 but as a protrusion extending downward from the lower surface 44 of the lid 6. This will allow the user to place the lid 6 as a ramp relative to the surface S at a number of (two or more) predetermined angles regardless of the orientation of the lid 6.

[0180] As described above and as for example Figure 5 shown, the crimp 7 of the lid 6 may be provided with openings 46. These openings form discontinuous portions of the crimp 7 at the longitudinal portions of the crimp 7 such that the upper surface 41 of the plate member 40 of the lid 6 extends to the outermost edge of the lid 6 at these portions. At least one pair of openings 46 in the crimp are provided in two parallel crimp portions opposite each other.

[0181] When arranged as Figure 1 shown, the discontinuous portions of the crimp, i.e., the crimp openings 46, allow the vehicle as described above to pass unrestricted to roll or slide down from the lid 6 forming the ramp and reach the surface S on which the cartridge element 3 and the lid are placed. Such a vehicle may be a sled or a car formed by one or more modular construction elements.

[0182] In some embodiments, a discontinuous portion of the crimp, i.e., the crimp opening 46, is provided at the short outer peripheral edge portions 51, 53 of the lid 6.

[0183] As Figure 1 , 2 , 4, 8, 9 show, the cartridge element 3 may be provided with locking elements 8 which are configured to fix the lid to the cartridge element 3 when the lid is disposed on the cartridge element 3 to form a closed cartridge as shown, for example, in Figure 2 . These locking elements 8 may be provided on the short side walls 21, 23 of the cartridge element 3 as shown and are configured to cooperate with the crimp openings 46 in the crimp 7. In some embodiments, there is one locking element 8 at each of two oppositely disposed short side walls 21, 23 of the cartridge element 3. The locking element 8 may be hinged to the side wall 20 on which it is provided such that the locking element 8 can rotate from a position where it is disengaged from the lid to a position where a portion of the locking element 8 engages the lid 6. Thus, the locking element 8 serves as a clamp or clip. This engagement is provided at the crimp opening 46 of the crimp 7. Thus, the crimp opening 46 can have a dual purpose.

[0184] In, for example, Figure 2 and Figure 3 , it is further shown that the shape and dimensions of the cartridge element 3 and the lid 6 can be designed such that when the lid 6 is disposed on the cartridge element 3 to form a closed cartridge as shown, for example, in Figure 2 , the outer surface 50'' formed on the outer peripheral flange 50' of the lid 6 is flush with the outer surface 20' of the side wall 20.

[0185] From, for example, Figure 3 and Figure 4 it can be understood that when the side wall 20 of the cartridge element 3 includes a double-wall construction in which an outer wall 26 and an inner wall 27 form each side wall 20, a wall opening 29 can be provided in the outer wall 26. This opening 29 can accommodate the locking element 8. This will allow portions of the locking element 8 to be disposed within the outer wall 26 and thus the locking element 8 can be mounted into the outer boundary provided by the outer surfaces of the cartridge element 3 and the lid 6. This results in a smoother outer surface for the entire combination. This not only creates a more attractive visual impression but also reduces the risk of a user being injured by getting caught on a protruding portion of the combination 1 during operation of the combination 1. It also allows multiple combinations 1 of the cartridge element 3 / lid (i.e., the cartridge 2) to be stored adjacent to each other.

[0186] As Figure 3 and Figure 4 show, each locking element 8 includes a vertically disposed first outer surface 8' and a horizontally disposed second outer surface 8'' (when the locking element 8 is in the closed position in which the lid 6 is locked to the cartridge element 3 as shown in Figure 2 ).

[0187] Thus, as can be understood from Figure 3 and Figure 4 when the locking element 8 is in the closed position, in which the lid 6 is locked to the cartridge element 3 (as Figure 2 shown), the first outer surface 8' of the locking element 8 is flush with the outer surface 50'' of the peripheral flange of the lid 6 and is flush with the outer surface 20' of the side wall 20 of the cartridge element 3.

[0188] Furthermore, as can be understood from, for example, Figure 3 and Figure 4 when the locking element is in the closed position, the second outer surface 8'' of the locking element 8 is flush with the upper surface 7'' of the crimp 7.

[0189] Figure 8 The combination of the cartridge element 3, the lid 6 and two modular building plates 60 is shown.

[0190] The modular building plate 60 on one side 61 includes first connectors 900, 901 arranged in a regular two-dimensional array. The first connectors 900, 901 are in the form of knobs or studs. Such knobs or studs can cooperate with second connectors 900, 901 arranged in a similar two-dimensional array. The second connectors 900, 902 can be knob receiving openings. The first connectors 900, 901 and the second connectors 900, 902 are configured to be detachably attached to each other in an interference fit manner. FIGS. 9A-9C show examples of such first connectors 900, 901 in the form of knobs / studs and second connectors 900, 901 in the form of knob receiving openings 900, 901, where the first connectors 900, 901 and the second connectors 900, 902 are shown on a modular building element base in the form of a building block.

[0191] In Figure 8 two building plates 60 are shown mounted within a plate area A defined within the crimp 7, in which case the crimp 7 can serve as a frame 202 for the upper surface 41 of the lid 6 on the plate member 40 surrounding the lid 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the plate area A on the upper surface 41 of the lid 6 is a smooth surface such that the modular building plates 60 are loosely disposed on the plate area A.

[0192] The size and shape of the plate area A formed on the upper surface 41 of the lid 6 and defined inside the frame 202 formed by the crimp 7 can be designed to enclose the modular building plates 60 and the modular building element base having the first connectors 901 and / or the second connectors 902 in a two-dimensional array. This means that the length and width dimensions of the plate area A are incremented by the modular distance M of the modular construction system 100, as described above in connection with FIG. 9C.

[0193] In Figure 8In [the figure], each of the two building plates 60 includes a plate-shaped main body 60', and the plate-shaped main body 60' has an upper surface 61, on which an array of first connectors 900, 901 in the form of knobs / studs is formed. Figure 8 The modular building plates 60 in [the figure] have the same shape and size. Each of the two modular building plates 60 has a 16×16 array of first connectors 900, 901 (knobs / studs) formed on its upper surface 61. This set of two modular building plates 60 spans the width of the plate area A formed on the upward surface 41 of the cover 6 in the above-mentioned lateral direction. Therefore, it should be understood that in the illustrated embodiment, the size of the plate area A formed on the upward surface 41 of the cover 6 is designed to have a width of 32 modular distances.

[0194] From Figure 8 It can be understood that in addition to the two modular building plates 60 on the plate area A, four other such modular building plates 60 with 16×16 first connectors 900, 901 can be installed between the frames 202 formed by the flanges 7. Thus, in this embodiment, the size of the plate area A formed on the upward surface 41 of the cover 6 is designed to install a total of six such modular building plates 60 with 16×16 first connectors 900, 901. Therefore, in this embodiment, the size of the plate area A formed on the upward surface 41 of the cover 6 is designed to have a length of 48 modular distances in the longitudinal direction of the cover 6.

[0195] It should be understood that the size of the plate area A formed on the upward surface 41 of the cover 6 can be designed to install other numbers of modular building plates 60 with 16×16 first connectors 900, 901. In addition, it should be understood that the size of the plate area A formed on the upward surface 41 of the cover 6 can be designed to install other numbers of modular building plates 60 with sizes different from Figure 8 the 16×16 first connectors 900, 901 shown. Generally, the length and width dimensions of the plate area A formed on the upward surface 41 of the cover 6 are designed in increments of the number of modular distances.

[0196] Therefore, generally, the upper surface 41 of the cover 6 and the flanges 7 can be configured to install one or more modular building plates 60.

[0197] In some embodiments, the installation of one or more modular building plates 60 within the frame 202 can be a snug fit.

[0198] When the plate area A is formed to accommodate one or more building plates 60, this means that a set of frame parts 221, 222, 223, 224 of the frame 202 formed by the hemming 7 are straight, and the intersections between these frame parts 221, 222, 223, 224 form right-angled corners without any rounded corners, so that block or plate-shaped modular construction elements can be mounted tightly against the edges in the corners.

[0199] Now referring to Figures 6 - 8 , in some aspects, the lid 6 itself can also be understood as the modular building element base 200.

[0200] In any case, the lid 6 or the modular building element base 200 includes a building plate 201 and a frame 202. The building plate 201 is the same as the plate element 40 of the lid 6, and the frame 202 is formed by the hemming 7 as described above. As Figure 6 shown, the building plate 201 / plate member 40 includes four building plate edges 210, two long building plate edges 212, 214 formed parallel to each other, and two short building plate edges 211, 213. The long building plate edges 212, 214 are perpendicular to the short building plate edges 211, 213. The building plate edges are connected to the frame parts 221, 222, 223, 224. It should be understood that in other embodiments not shown, the number of building plate edges 210 can be different.

[0201] As Figures 6 - 8 shown, in an embodiment, the lid 6 / modular building element base 200 can include a scale 300 provided on two long frame parts 222, 224. The scale includes markings 301 indicating distances.

[0202] It is noted that the drawings and the above description have shown the example embodiments in a simple and schematic manner. Many specific mechanical details have not been shown because those skilled in the art should be familiar with these details, and they would only complicate this description unnecessarily.

[0203] Component list

[0204] 1 Combination of box element and lid

[0205] 2 Box

[0206] 3 Box element

[0207] 4 Inner space / internal space of box element

[0208] 5 Upward opening leading to box element

[0209] 6 Lid

[0210] 7 Hemming on lid

[0211] 8 Locking element

[0212] 9 Ramp Angle / Edge Joiner

[0213] 10 Bottom Wall of the Cartridge Element

[0214] 10’ Inner Surface of Each Bottom Wall

[0215] 10” Outer Surface of Each Bottom Wall

[0216] 20 Side Wall of the Cartridge Element

[0217] 20’ Outer Surface of Each Side Wall

[0218] 20” Inner Surface of Each Side Wall

[0219] 21 Side Wall of the Cartridge Element, Short Side Wall of the Cartridge Element

[0220] 22 Side Wall of the Cartridge Element, Long Side Wall of the Cartridge Element

[0221] 23 Side Wall of the Cartridge Element, Short Side Wall of the Cartridge Element

[0222] 24 Side Wall of the Cartridge Element, Long Side Wall of the Cartridge Element

[0223] 26 Outer Wall of Each Side Wall

[0224] 27 Inner Wall of Each Side Wall

[0225] 28 Connecting Wall (Extending between the inner wall and the outer wall of each side wall)

[0226] 29 Wall Opening

[0227] 30 Upward Edge of the Outer Peripheral Surface of the Cartridge Element 30’ Upward Flange, on Which the Upward Edge of the Outer Peripheral Surface of the Cartridge Element is Provided 31 Partial Edge at the Short Side Wall of the Cartridge Element

[0228] 32 Partial Edge at the Long Side Wall of the Cartridge Element

[0229] 33 Partial Edge at the Short Side Wall of the Cartridge Element

[0230] 34 Partial Edge at the Long Side Wall of the Cartridge Element

[0231] 40 Plate Member of the Cover / Body Portion of the Cover (Flat and Plate-Like)

[0232] 41 Upward Surface of the Cover

[0233] 42 Downward Surface of the Cover

[0234] 43 Upper Side of the Cover

[0235] 44 Lower Side of the Cover

[0236] 45 Outer Edge / Outer Peripheral Edge of the Plate-Like Member

[0237] 46 Opening in the curl / curl opening

[0238] 47 Inward curl wall

[0239] 48 Top curl wall

[0240] 48’ Upward-facing surface of the top curl wall

[0241] 48” Downward-facing surface of the top curl wall

[0242] 49 Groove / downward longitudinal groove - defined by the curl

[0243] 50 Outer peripheral edge of the lid

[0244] 50’ Outer peripheral flange of the lid (on which the outer peripheral edge lies)

[0245] 50” Outer surface of the outer peripheral flange of the lid

[0246] 51 Outer peripheral edge portion of the lid / short outer peripheral edge portion of the lid

[0247] 51’ Outer peripheral flange portion of the lid / short outer peripheral flange portion of the lid

[0248] 52 Outer peripheral edge portion of the lid / long outer peripheral edge portion of the lid

[0249] 52’ Outer peripheral flange portion of the lid / long outer peripheral flange portion of the lid

[0250] 53 Outer peripheral edge portion of the lid / short outer peripheral edge portion of the lid

[0251] 53’ Outer peripheral flange portion of the lid / short outer peripheral flange portion of the lid

[0252] 54 Outer peripheral edge portion of the lid / long outer peripheral edge portion of the lid

[0253] 54’ Outer peripheral flange portion of the lid / long outer peripheral flange portion of the lid

[0254] 55 Lid support wall

[0255] 56 Downward-facing edge (of the lid support wall)

[0256] 57 Notch - formed in the downward-facing edge of the lid support wall - and forming a ramp angle in one embodiment

[0257] 60 Modular building plate

[0258] 100 Modular construction system

[0259] 101 Modular toy construction system

[0260] 102A Toy construction element

[0261] 102B Toy construction element

[0262] 103 Main body part of the toy construction element

[0263] 104 Top surface of the main body part of the toy construction element

[0264] 105 Top wall of the main body part of the toy construction element

[0265] 106A Side wall (end wall) of the main body part of the toy construction element

[0266] 106B Side wall of the main body part of the toy construction element

[0267] 106C Side wall of the main body part of the toy construction element

[0268] 106D Side wall (end wall) of the main body part of the toy construction element

[0269] 107 Lowermost edge of the main body part of the toy construction element

[0270] 200 Modular building element base

[0271] 201 Building board

[0272] 202 Frame

[0273] 210 Edge of the building board; outer peripheral edge of the building board

[0274] 211 Edge of the building board, short edge of the building board

[0275] 212 Edge of the building board, long edge of the building board

[0276] 213 Edge of the building board, short edge of the building board

[0277] 214 Edge of the building board, long edge of the building board

[0278] 221 Frame part / short frame part

[0279] 222 Frame part / long frame part

[0280] 223 Frame part / short frame part

[0281] 224 Frame part / long frame part

[0282] 300 Scale

[0283] 301 Mark

[0284] 350 Line mark

[0285] 900 Connector / Cylindrical Connector (Mechanical Connection) / Complementary Connector

[0286] 901 Connecting Stud / Stud / Connecting Knob / Knob

[0287] 902 Knob Receiving Opening / Stud Receiving Opening

[0288] 905 Connecting Stud / Stud / Connecting Knob / Knob Body

[0289] 910 Outer Cylindrical Surface of Connecting Stud / Stud / Connecting Knob / Knob Body

[0290] 911 Downward Extending Tube / Cylinder

[0291] 912 Lower Surface of Top Wall of Toy Construction Element / Construction Block

[0292] 915 Outer Surface

[0293] 916 Inner Surface of Side Wall of Toy Construction Element / Construction Block

[0294] 917 Elongated Rib 917

[0295] A Building Area

[0296] M Modular Distance.

Claims

1. A modular building element base (200), comprising - A building board (201) having a building area (A) formed on its upper surface (41), and a set of building board edges (210, 211, 212, 213, 214) at the outer periphery of the building area (A), and - A frame (202) that surrounds the building board on each of the set of building board edges (210, 211, 212, 213, 214), Among them, The frame (202) includes a set of frame parts, where each frame part is adjacent to one of the board edges, Wherein at least one of the frame parts (221, 222, 223, 224) includes a scale (300) having numerical markings (301) provided on the outer surface of the frame part (221, 222, 223, 224).

2. The modular building element base (200) according to claim 1, wherein, The building board (201) on one side includes first connectors (900, 901) arranged in a regular two-dimensional array, where each of the first connectors (900, 901) is configured to connect to a complementary second connector (900, 902) of another modular building element.

3. The modular building element base (200) according to claim 2, wherein, The first connectors (900, 901) are integrally formed with the building board (201).

4. The modular building element base (200) according to claim 2, Among them, The first connectors (900, 901) are integrally formed on at least one board element (60) that is detachably mounted to the upper surface of the building board (201), Wherein the dimensions of the building board (201) and the frame (202) are such that when the at least one board element (60) is disposed adjacent to the frame part (221, 222, 223, 224) carrying the scale (300), the first connectors (900, 901) provided on the board element (60) are aligned with the numerical markings (301) of the scale (300).

5. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The frame (202) has an upper frame surface (48') that is higher than the upper surface (41) of the building board (201).

6. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A subgroup of the frame parts (221, 222, 223, 224) of the frame (202) is integrally formed with the building board (201).

7. The modular building element base (200) according to claim 6, wherein, The board edges (110, 111, 112, 113, 114) of the building board (201) that do not have integrally formed frame parts (221, 222, 223, 224) can be provided with detachably attached frame parts (221, 222, 223, 224).

8. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, All the board edges (210, 211, 212, 213, 214) of the building board (201) are provided with frame parts (221, 222, 223, 224), and all the frame parts (221, 222, 223, 224) are integrally formed with the building board.

9. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, All the board edges (110, 111, 112, 113, 114) of the building board (201) are provided with frame parts (221, 222, 223, 224), and all the frame parts (221, 222, 223, 224) are detachably attached to the building board (201).

10. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first connectors (900, 901) are coupling knobs / studs.

11. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The numerical markings of the scale (300) indicate the increments of a plurality of connectors (900).

12. The modular building element base (200) according to claim 11, wherein, The scale (300) indicates length or width in 4-step increments of the connector (900).

13. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The upper surface (41) of the building board (201) includes a line marking (350) for one or more numerical markings (301) of the scale (300), wherein each line marking (350) extends perpendicular to the frame parts (221, 222, 223, 224) on which the scale (300) is located, and wherein each line marking (350) is aligned with a numerical marking (301).

14. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The modular building element base (200) forms a cover (6) for a combination (1) of a modular construction system (100), the combination (1) including the cover (6) and a box element (3), wherein the box element (3) includes a bottom wall (10) and a set of side walls (20) extending from the bottom wall (10), and an upward-facing edge (30) defined on the side walls (20), and wherein the cover (6) includes - an upper surface (41), - a lower surface (42), which is on the lower side (44) of the cover (6); and - an outer peripheral edge (50) for engaging with the upward-facing edge (30) of the peripheral surface when the cover (6) is disposed on the box element (10) to form a closed box (2), and wherein the frame (202) is at least partially formed along the edge of the cover (6) by a hem (7) extending above the upward surface (41) of the cover (6).

15. The modular building element base (200) according to claim 14, wherein, One or more ramp corners (9) are provided on the lower side (44) of the cover (6), and one or more ramp corners (9) are configured to engage with a part of the upward-facing edge (30) of the peripheral surface of the box element (3) to make the cover rest on the box element (3).

16. The modular building element base (200) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, A pair of ramp corners (9) are provided on the cover (6), and each of the two ramp corners (9) in the pair of ramp corners (9) is provided along the parallel edge portions (52, 54) of the cover (6).

17. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein, The box element (3) and the cover (6) are in an elongated shape, having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis, wherein the longitudinal axis is longer than the transverse axis, and wherein the ramp corners (9) are provided along the long edge portions (42, 44) of the cover (6) parallel to the longitudinal axis.

18. The modular building element base (200) according to claim 17, wherein, The ramp corners (9) are provided at the ends of the cover (6) in the longitudinal direction of the cover (6).

19. The modular building element base (200) according to claim 18, wherein, Two or more pairs of ramp corners (9) are provided at each end of the cover (6) along the longitudinal direction.

20. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of claims 14 to 19, wherein, The ramp angle (9) is a notch (57) formed in the lower edge (56)-facing of the lid (6).

21. The modular building element base (200) according to any one of claims 14 - 20, wherein, The crimp (7) is discontinuous at its longitudinal portion such that the upward surface (41) of the lid extends to the outermost edge of the lid (6).

22. The modular building element base (200) according to claim 21, wherein, The box element (3) and the lid (6) are in an elongated shape having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis, wherein the longitudinal axis is longer than the transverse axis, and wherein the discontinuous portion of the crimp (7) is provided at the short outer peripheral edge portions (51, 53) of the lid (6).

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