Toy connection for modular toy construction system

Abstract

A toy connector element (1) for connecting a first modular toy construction element (100) to a second modular toy construction element (200), the second modular toy construction element (200) comprising a cylindrical section (201) having a cylindrical outer surface (205) and a first diameter (D1), the toy connector element (1) comprising: a base (10) having a proximal end (11) and a distal end (12); and-two arms (20), each arm (20) extending from the distal end (12) of the base (10), the two arms (20) defining therebetween a receiving space (30), where each of the two arms (20) has a proximal end (21), a distal end (22) and a width (W1) between the two side surfaces (29), where the receiving space (30) is configured for receiving a cylindrical section (201) of a second modular toy construction element (200), where the receiving space (30) is configured for receiving the cylindrical section (201) of the second modular toy construction element (200). Each of the two arms (20) comprises a contact surface (40) for holding the cylindrical section (201) in the receiving space, the contact surface (40) having a second width (W2) smaller than the first width (W1), and wherein at least one arm (20) further comprises a pivoting structure (80); wherein the pivot structure (80) is located radially at a distance from the contact surface (40) with respect to the receiving space (30); wherein the pivot structure (80) is located axially at a distance from the contact surface (40).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a toy connector for connecting two articles, for example two elements of a modular toy construction system. More specifically, the present invention relates to a toy connector for connecting to a toy construction element comprising a cylindrical section. BACKGROUND

[0002] C-shaped connectors or snap connectors for modular toy construction systems are known in the art, see for example Figs. A1 and 1 B.

[0003] Such C-shaped connectors are configured for connecting one construction element having at least one cylindrical or rod-shaped connector section in a snap-connection manner with another construction element having a C-shaped connector according to the invention. The C-shaped connector type has two "arm sections" that partially surround a cylindrical receiving space, which arm sections are at least slightly resilient so that they can be bent and allow the insertion or removal of the cylindrical connector section. The cylindrical connector section comprises a cylindrical outer surface. The C-shaped connector comprises a partial tubular wall surrounding a substantially cylindrical receiving space for receiving the cylindrical or rod-shaped connector section, wherein the partial tubular wall comprises a partial cylindrical inner surface that engages and compresses the cylindrical outer surface of the cylindrical connector section. The C-shaped connector further comprises an entrance opening leading to the substantially cylindrical receiving space.

[0004] For example, the C-shaped snap connectors of the prior art can be manufactured in ABS plastic by means of an injection molding process.

[0005] Generally, the cylindrical connector section that can be connected with such snap connectors is part of an elongated construction element. Thus, when these two elements are connected together, there is a risk that during use a significant torque acts on the C-shaped connector when a force acts on the construction element having the cylindrical connector section away from the connection. If this force is not directed so that the cylindrical connector section of the second toy construction element is pressed towards the passage between the distal ends of the arm sections, there is a risk that the C-shaped connector breaks. There is therefore a need for a new connector that reduces the risk of breaking when a torque is exerted on the connector by the second toy construction element that is connected to the connector. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a connector that contains measures to ensure the durability of the product in case of an overload situation when the second toy element that is inserted in the connector is twisted accidentally with respect to the connector. SUMMARY

[0006] In a first aspect of the invention, the object of the invention is achieved by a toy connector element for connecting a first modular toy construction element to a second modular toy construction element.

[0007] The second modular toy construction element comprises a cylindrical section having a cylindrical outer surface and a first diameter, The toy connector element comprises - a base having a proximal end and a distal end; and - two arm portions, each extending from the distal end of the base, the two arm portions defining a receiving space therebetween, wherein each of the two arm portions has a proximal end, a distal end and a width between two side faces; wherein the receiving space is configured for receiving the cylindrical section of the second modular toy construction element; wherein each of the two arm portions comprises a contact surface in contact with the cylindrical section, the contact surface having a second width which is smaller than the first width; wherein at least one of the arm portions further comprises a pivot structure; wherein the pivot structure is located at a distance from the contact surface in a radial direction with respect to the receiving space; and wherein the pivot structure is located at a distance from the contact surface in an axial direction.

[0008] Thus, when the cylindrical section of the second modular toy construction element is placed in the receiving space of the toy connector element and a force is exerted on the second modular toy construction element such that the cylindrical section of the second modular toy construction element causes a twist to the arm portions of the toy connector element, the second modular toy construction element can slightly rotate with respect to the contact surface of the toy connector element and, if the twist allows for enough rotation, a part of the second modular toy construction element will rest against the pivot structure. When this happens, the pivot structure forms a fulcrum for the part of the second modular toy construction element which can rotate with respect to the arm portions on the fulcrum and forces the other end of the second modular toy construction element towards and out of the passage between the distal ends of the arm portions. Thus, due to the twist, the arm portions do not break due to an overload thereon.

[0009] Preferably, the pivot structure is an edge.

[0010] Preferably, the edge extends along the contact surface.

[0011] Preferably, the edge diverges away from a midplane of the toy connector element towards the distal ends of the arm portions. Thereby, the edge better guides the cylindrical section of the second modular toy construction element towards the passage between the distal ends of the arm portions.

[0012] The midplane is defined between the two arm portions of the toy connector element.

[0013] Preferably, at least the distal end of each of the two arm portions of the toy connector element is flexible with respect to the base.

[0014] This flexibility can be provided by the material properties of the toy connector element and / or the geometry of the arm portion and the base portion of the toy connector element.

[0015] In an embodiment, the contact surface is at least partially formed on a structure protruding from the load bearing surface of the arm portion, and wherein the pivot structure is formed at a transition between a side surface of the arm portion and the load bearing surface of the arm portion.

[0016] In another embodiment, the pivot structure is formed on both sides of the contact surface of the arm portion.

[0017] In another embodiment, the pivot structure is formed on both arm portions.

[0018] In another embodiment, the contact surface on each arm portion is one uniform surface, which extends from a first one of the two arm portions to a second one of the two arm portions.

[0019] Alternatively, the contact surface on each arm portion is different from the contact surface on the other one of the two arm portions and separated from each other.

[0020] In any event, in a further embodiment of any of the above-mentioned embodiments, the proximal end of the base portion is connectable to or connected to the first modular toy construction element.

[0021] Thus, in some embodiments, the toy connector element can be fixedly connected to the first modular toy construction element. In such a case, the toy connector element can have a fixed position relative to the first modular toy construction element, or it can be connected such that it is positioned relative to the first modular toy construction element. In case the toy connector element is fixedly connected to the first modular toy construction element and in a fixed position relative to the first modular toy construction element, in other embodiments, the toy connector element can be integrally formed with the first modular toy construction element or a part thereof, for example by means of an injection molding process. In alternative embodiments, the toy connector element can be connected to and disconnected from the first modular toy construction element by means of a suitable coupling, examples of which are known in the art. Also in such a case, the toy connector element can have a fixed position relative to the first modular toy construction element, or it can be connected such that it is positioned relative to the first modular toy construction element.

[0022] In a further embodiment of any of the above-mentioned embodiments, the passage between the distal ends of the two arm portions has a maximum distance which is smaller than the diameter, i.e. the first diameter, of the cylindrical section of the second modular toy construction element.

[0023] The passage between the distal ends of the two arms further makes it possible for the cylindrical section of the second modular toy construction element to be inserted into or extracted from the receiving space formed between the two arms, such that by exerting a pulling force on the second modular toy construction element relative to the toy connector element, the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical section is transverse to the direction of insertion, that is, it allows the cylindrical section of the second modular toy construction element to be inserted into and extracted from the receiving space in a direction that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction of the toy connector element base.

[0024] In a second aspect of the application, the object of the application can also be achieved by combining a toy connector element according to any of the above-described embodiments with a second modular toy construction element, wherein the second modular toy construction element comprises a cylindrical section having a cylindrical outer surface and a first diameter.

[0025] The toy connector element can constitute a part of a first modular toy construction element.

[0026] With the above-described embodiments, an overload protection can be provided. If a torsional force is exerted on the cylindrical section relative to the toy connector element, this will allow the cylindrical section to rotate slightly within the receiving space relative to the toy connector element, and the cylindrical section of the second modular toy construction element will only abut against the pivot structure after this slight rotation. This will cause the cylindrical section to push the spring surface in the direction of the entry opening, thereby forcing the arms to spring apart, further disengaging the cylindrical section from the toy connector element.

[0027] It is emphasized that the terms "comprises" / "comprising", "comprised of" and "comprising of", as used in the present specification, are to be construed as specifying the presence of 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 DRAWINGS

[0028] The application will be described in more detail with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, in which it is emphasized that the illustrated embodiments are for exemplifying purposes only and should not be used to limit the scope of the application.

[0029] Fig. 1A is a perspective view showing a prior art modular construction toy element or first modular construction toy element having a prior art C-shaped connector configured for connecting a cylindrical connector section of a second modular construction element, such as a rod or shaft, wherein the C-shaped connector is provided on a top surface of a brick-shaped modular construction element; Fig. 1 B is a perspective view showing a prior art modular construction toy element or first modular construction toy element having a prior art C-shaped connector configured for connecting a cylindrical connector section of a second modular construction element, like a rod or shaft, wherein the C-shaped connector is arranged on a side surface of the brick-shaped modular construction element; Figure 2A is a perspective view showing a toy connector element according to the present application connected to a cylindrical section of a second modular construction element, here in the form of a rod or shaft; Figure 2B is a front view showing Figure 2A the toy connector element and indicating torsional forces and longitudinal frictional forces between the toy connector element and the cylindrical connector section of the second modular construction element; Figure 2C is a side view showing Figure 2A the toy connector element and indicating torsional torque forces and longitudinal pulling forces between the toy connector element and the cylindrical section of the second modular construction element; Figure 3A is a side view showing a toy connector element according to the present application and indicating a cross-section B-B through the toy connector element; Figure 3B shows a cross-section B-B through Figure 3A the toy connector element; Figure 4A is a different side view showing a toy connector element according to the present application and indicating a cross-section A-A through the toy connector element; Figure 4B shows a cross-section A-A through Figure 4A the toy connector element; Figure 5 shows a front view of a toy connector element according to the present application; Figure 6A is a perspective view showing Figures 2A to 5 the toy connector element in and gives a view of a spring surface which in some embodiments can constitute part of the contact surface and the pivot structure of the toy connector element; Figure 6B shows a detailed enlarged view of Figure 6A the toy connector element. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Figures 1A-1B show examples of different prior art first modular toy construction elements 100. In this case, the modular toy construction elements 100 have the form of a square brick 101 and are integrally formed with a prior art snap connection 1’. Another modular toy construction element 200 (not shown in Figures 1A-1B, but shown in the examples in, for example Figures 2A to 2C

[0031] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1A, the snap connection 1’ is provided on the top surface 102 of the brick 101. The brick further comprises a lower surface 103 and four equally long side surfaces 104. In the lower surface 103, modular connections 300, 302 (not shown) can be formed in the form of knob receiving openings, which are configured for receiving another type of modular connection in the form of knobs 301. Such knobs 300, 301 are shown in the prior art first modular toy construction element 100 in Figure 1B.

[0032] Figure 1B shows another example of a prior art first modular toy construction element 100. Again, the modular toy construction element 100 has the form of a square brick 101 and comprises a prior art snap connection 1’, with which another modular toy construction element 200 with a cylindrical section 201 is detachably connected to the prior art snap connection 1’ of the first modular toy construction element 100. As in the example shown in Figure 1B, the snap connection 1’ is provided on one of the side surfaces 104 of the brick 101. As previously mentioned, the top surface 102 of the prior art first modular toy construction element 100 is provided with a modular connection 300 in the form of a knob 301.

[0033] In both examples, as shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the prior art snap connection 1’ is integrally formed with the first modular toy construction element 100 in the form of a brick 101. This can also be the case with the new connection 1. However, just as in the case of the prior art snap connection 1’, the new toy connection element 1 itself can also be detachably connected to the first modular toy construction element 100 or a part thereof in a replaceable manner, or fixed but movably, for example rotatably, connected to the first modular toy construction element 100 or a part thereof.

[0034] According to the application, the first modular toy construction element 100 itself can generally be composed of a set of interconnectable modular toy construction elements.

[0035] ​Now returning to Figs. 1A and 1 B, the shape of the prior art snap connector 1’ is identical in both examples, although the positioning relative to the brick 101 is different. The prior art snap connector 1’ comprises a base 110 which is connected at a first proximal end to the brick 101 and extends from this proximal end. The prior art snap connector 1’ has two “arm portions” 120 which extend from the base 110, the arm portions partially encircling a (partial) cylindrical receiving space 130. Furthermore, between the distal ends of the two arm portions 120 an entrance opening 135 is formed which leads to the substantially cylindrical receiving space 130. Both arm portions extend in an arc shape, respectively. Thus, the shape of the prior art snap connector 1’ is C-shaped.

[0036] The arm portions 120 have at least a slight elasticity relative to the base 110 so that they can be bent and allow the insertion or removal of a cylindrical connector section of a second modular construction toy. Thereby, the prior art snap connector 1’ provides a coupling means for coupling another modular toy construction element or second modular toy construction element 200 (e.g. a rod-shaped element) having a cylindrical connector section 201 in a snap-fit connection. Thus, the prior art snap connector 1’ can be configured to attach another object (not shown), e.g. a toy lance, a toy sword or a toy flag or other element having a cylindrical connector section 201.

[0037] The cylindrical connector section 201 of the second modular construction element 200 (not shown) comprises a cylindrical outer surface 205. The prior art C-shaped snap connector 1’ comprises a partial tubular wall 150 around the substantially cylindrical receiving space 130 for receiving the cylindrical or rod-shaped connector section, wherein the partial tubular wall 150 comprises a partial cylindrical inner surface which is formed to engage and compress the cylindrical outer surface of the cylindrical connector section. Thus, upon insertion, the entire partial cylindrical inner surface 150 of the prior art snap connector 1’ engages the cylindrical outer surface 205 of the cylindrical connector section 201 of the second modular construction element 200.

[0038] The partial tubular wall 150 extends slightly more than 180°, so that the cylindrical connector section 201 of the second modular construction element 200 (not shown) has to be inserted axially along the longitudinal axis of the partial tubular wall 150 or a passage into the cylindrical receiving space 130 is obtained by pressing the distal ends of the arm portions 120 apart through the above-mentioned entrance opening 135. This is achieved by the elasticity of the arm portions 120 relative to the base 110 of the prior art toy connector element 1’.

[0039] Now turning to Figures 2A to 2CFig. 1A shows a toy connector element 1 according to an embodiment of the application. In the shown embodiment, the toy connector element 1 is integrally formed with a brick 101. The brick 101 and the toy connector element 1 together constitute a first modular toy construction element 100. It will be appreciated that the first modular toy construction element 100 can have a different shape or form than the brick 101 shown in these embodiments, i.e. the toy connector element 1 can be connected to or connectable to an alternative shaped object.

[0040] As in the case of the C-shaped connector 1’ described above in Figs. 1A-1B, the toy connector element 1 is connectable to a cylindrical section 201 of a second modular construction element 200. In the shown embodiment, the toy connector element 1 is integrally formed with the brick 101. The brick 101 and the toy connector element 1 together constitute a first modular toy construction element 100. It will be appreciated that the first modular toy construction element 100 can have a different shape or form than the brick 101 shown in these embodiments, i.e. the toy connector element 1 can be connected to or connectable to an alternative shaped object. Figures 2A to 2C In Fig. 2A, the toy connector element 1 is shown connected with the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular construction element 200.

[0041] An example of a second modular construction element 200 is an elongated cylindrical rod or shaft. Thus, in the present embodiment, the entire second modular construction element 200 forms the cylindrical section 201 to which the connector element 1 according to the application is connectable.

[0042] It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the second modular construction element 200 can take other general forms, wherein only a portion / section of the second modular construction element 200 has the cylindrical section 201, which has a first diameter D1, as shown in Figure 2B for example, which has a length similar to or different from the length shown in Figures 2A to 2C .

[0043] Figure 2A In Fig. 2A, the toy connector element 1 is shown connected with the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular construction element 200. Figure 2C In Fig. 2B, the pivot structure 80 according to the application and the spring surface 60 provided on the protruding structure 70, which is formed on each of the two arm portions 20, can be seen from the side. The spring surface 60 can constitute part of the contact surface 40, or as an example of the contact surface, it provides together with the pivot structure 80 an overload protection. The spring surface 60 and the pivot structure 80 will be explained in more detail below.

[0044] In Fig. 2C, the pivot structure 80 according to the application and the spring surface 60 provided on the protruding structure 70, which is formed on each of the two arm portions 20, can be seen from the side. The spring surface 60 can constitute part of the contact surface 40, or as an example of the contact surface, it provides together with the pivot structure 80 an overload protection. The spring surface 60 and the pivot structure 80 will be explained in more detail below. Figures 2A to 2CIn the illustrated embodiment, the toy connector element 1 is provided on a top surface 102 of a brick 101. The brick 101 is box-shaped and further comprises a lower surface 103 and four side surfaces 104. In the lower surface 103, a not-illustrated modular connector 300, 302 can be formed in the form of a knob receiving opening configured for receiving another type of modular connector 300 in the form of a knob 301. Such a knob 301 is illustrated in the prior art first modular toy construction element 100 of the example of Fig. IB.

[0045] It will be appreciated that the toy connector element 1 can replace the C-shaped connector 1’ on the brick 101 of Fig. 1A or Fig. IB. It will be appreciated, however, that the toy connector element 1 according to the present application can also constitute an integral part of or be connectable to other types of first modular toy construction elements. In some cases, when the toy connector element 1 is detachably connected to the first modular toy construction element 100, the first modular toy construction element 100 and the base 10 of the toy connector element 1 can comprise (not illustrated) suitable interconnection connectors. Such connectors are known in the art.

[0046] In any of the embodiments described herein, the toy connector element 1 can preferably be made of plastic. For example, the toy connector element 1 can be made of HV-ABS plastic. The main features of the toy connector element 1, however, namely the contact surface 40 (such as the spring surface 60) and the pivot structure 80, will function regardless of the type of plastic. Preferably, the toy connector element 1 according to the present application is formed by an injection molding process.

[0047] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the toy connector element 1 can be fixedly connected to the first modular toy construction element 100. In these embodiments, the toy connector element 1 can have a fixed position relative to the first modular toy construction element 100, or it can be connected so as to be positioned relative to the first modular toy construction element 100. In other embodiments, where the toy connector element 1 is fixedly connected to the first modular toy construction element 100 and is in a fixed position relative to the first modular toy construction element 100, the toy connector element 1 can be integrally formed with the first modular toy construction element 100 or a part thereof, for example by an injection molding process. In alternative embodiments, the toy connector element 1 can be coupled and decoupled from the first modular toy construction element 100 by suitable couplings, examples of which are known in the art. Furthermore, in this case, the toy connector element 1 can have a fixed position relative to the first modular toy construction element 100, or it can be connected so as to be positioned relative to the first modular toy construction element 100.

[0048] As Figures 2A to 2C illustrated, the second modular toy construction element 200 comprises a cylindrical section 201 which is elongated and has a cylindrical outer surface 205. As Figure 2B illustrated, the cylindrical section 201 has a first diameter D1. It will be appreciated that by designing the toy connector element 1 in shape and size to cooperate with the cylindrical section 201, the toy connector element 1 is configured to connect with such a cylindrical section 201, as will be further explained in detail below.

[0049] The cylindrical section 201, the second modular toy construction element 200, the toy connector element 1 and the first modular toy construction element 100, e.g. the brick 101, can form part of a modular toy construction system.

[0050] Furthermore, the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 has a longitudinal axis C, which can also be referred to as an axial direction C. The axial direction C / longitudinal axis C is as Figure 2C illustrated. It will be appreciated that the axial direction C / longitudinal axis C is parallel to the double arrow FF in Figure 2B , wherein the arrow FF can represent the frictional force between the toy connector element and the cylindrical section of the second modular construction element when the second modular toy construction element 200 is inserted in the receiving space 30 formed between the connector arm sections 20’, 20” in the axial direction C. Thus, the arrow FF can represent the insertion direction of the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular construction element 200 into the receiving space 30 of the first modular toy construction element 100.

[0051] As Figures 2A to 2C illustrated, the toy connector element 1 comprises a base 10 and two arm sections 20 extending from the base 10. The base 10 has a proximal end 11 and a distal end 12 opposite thereto. The base 10 extends in a longitudinal direction between the proximal end 11 and the distal end 12. The proximal end 11 is intended to be proximate to the first modular construction element 100, such as the brick 101 as illustrated in the figures. As mentioned above, in the illustrated embodiment, the toy connector element 1 is integral with the brick 101. Thus, the proximal end 11 extends from the upper surface 102 of the brick 101. However, in other not illustrated embodiments, the proximal end 11 of the base 10 can be equipped with (not illustrated) connecting means for connecting to the first modular construction element 100, as mentioned above. Such a connection can be releasable or fixed.

[0052] The two arm sections 20 comprise a first arm section 20’ and a second arm section 20”. Both the first arm section 20’ and the second arm section 20” extend from the distal end 12 of the base 10.

[0053] The two arm portions 20 define a receiving space 30 between them, see for example Figure 3A or 4B. The receiving space 30 is configured to receive a cylindrical section 201 of a second modular toy construction element 200. The receiving space 30 formed between or defined by the two arm portions 20'20" is open at both ends, which are parallel to the side surfaces 28 of the arm portions of the first toy connector element 100. When the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 is inserted into the receiving space 30 of the first modular toy construction element 100 along the longitudinal axis C / axial direction C, the cylindrical section 201 enters the receiving space 30 through one of these openings.

[0054] The two arm portions 20 each have a proximal end 21 and a distal end 22. The proximal end 21 of each arm portion 20 is connected with the distal end 12 of the base portion 10.

[0055] The proximal end 21 of the arm portion 20 is closest to the base portion 10, i.e. the distal end 12 of the base portion 10, and the distal end 22 of each arm portion 20 extends away from the base portion 10.

[0056] Between the two distal ends 22 of the arm portions 20 an entrance opening 35 is formed leading to the receiving space 30, see for example Figure 4A The cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 can be inserted into the receiving space 30 formed between the arm portions 20 such that by exerting a pulling force as indicated by arrow DF in Figure 2C the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical section 201 is transverse to the insertion direction. During insertion the insertion direction DF is transverse or even perpendicular to the longitudinal axis C of the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200. The cylindrical section 201 can also be pulled out of the receiving space 30 in a direction opposite to the insertion direction DF by exerting a pulling force in the opposite direction, also as indicated by arrow DF in Figure 2C

[0057] The entrance opening 35 thus allows the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 to be inserted into and taken out of the receiving space 30 without having to slide it into the receiving space 30 along the axial direction of the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200, although such a sliding insertion is of course also possible.

[0058] Each of the two arm portions 20 and at least its distal end 22 is flexible with respect to the base portion 10. The elasticity or flexibility of the arm portions 20 is such that the arm portions 20 can be bent away from each other, at least such that the distance between the distal ends 22 of the arm portions allows the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 to enter or be taken out of the receiving space 30.

[0059] ​This flexibility / elasticity can be achieved by the material properties of the toy connector element 1 or by its dimensions and shape. Preferably, the base 10 and the two arm portions 20 are formed as one integral unit.

[0060] In Figure 2A In the embodiment shown in Fig. 7B, the first arm portion 20’ is of the same length as the second arm portion 20”. Thus, the correct insertion direction of the cylindrical segment 201 into the toy connector element 1 coincides with the longitudinal axis of the base 10 of the toy connector element 1, i.e. is essentially parallel. This insertion direction and the longitudinal axis of the base 10 coincide with the median plane M of the toy connector element 1, which is indicated by the dashed line in Figure 3A In

[0061] By comparing Figure 2C and Figure 3A it can be recognized that, when the cylindrical connector segment 201 is inserted into the receiving space 30 formed between the arm portions 20 of the toy connector element 1, the central longitudinal axis of the cylindrical connector segment 201 of the second modular construction element 200 will lie at the median plane M.

[0062] It should also be recognized that each spring surface 60 described above is arranged on each arm portion 20, 20’, 20” such that they extend over 90° from the bottom point B at the intersection between the median plane M and the circumference of the receiving space 30. The spring surfaces 60 preferably extend from the bottom point B at the intersection between the median plane M and the circumference of the receiving space 30 to a position of less than 100°. That is, the spring surfaces 60’, 60” are arranged to extend at an interval of 90° to 100° from the bottom point B at the intersection between the median plane M and the circumference of the receiving space 30. Thus, when the cylindrical connector segment 201 is located in the receiving space 30, the spring surfaces 60 are configured to press the cylindrical connector segment 201 towards the bottom point B located on the carrier surface segment 15 close to the base 10. It is thus also possible to plan that, when the cylindrical connector segment 201 is located in the receiving space 30, the spring surfaces 60 are configured to press the cylindrical connector segment 201 towards the carrier surface segment 15 close to the base 10.

[0063] It should be understood that, in other (not shown) embodiments, the lengths of the arm portions 20 can be different. Thus, the correct insertion direction of the cylindrical segment 201 into the toy connector element 1 can be inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the base 10 of the toy connector element 1.

[0064] In Figures 2A to 6BIn the illustrated embodiment, the arm portions 20 are slightly curved or arcuate. However, as will be apparent from the following description, it is to be understood that the shape or form of the arm portions 20 is not important. What is important is the location and function of the contact surfaces 40, such as the spring surfaces 60 described above, and their cooperation with the pivot structure 80. However, before we return to a description of the pivot structure 80 and its overload prevention function, we first describe the illustrated embodiment in more detail.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, facing the receiving space 30, the distal end 12 of each arm portion 20 and the base portion comprise a carrier surface 50. The carrier surface 50 is an inner / sideward facing surface of the toy construction element 1.

[0066] The carrier surface 50 comprises a first carrier surface section 15 formed at the distal end 12 of the base portion 10, and a second carrier surface section 25 formed on each arm portion 20, i.e. the first arm portion 20' and the second arm portion 20".

[0067] The first carrier surface section 15 faces the receiving space 30. The second carrier surface section 25 in each arm portion 20 also faces the receiving space 30.

[0068] Each side of each arm portion 20 further comprises a side surface 28. In addition, each arm portion has a convex arcuate back surface 29 facing outwardly or away from the receiving space 30. The second carrier surface section 25 of the carrier surface 50 is connected with the two side surfaces 28. The two side surfaces 28 of each arm portion are connected with the back surface 29.

[0069] As Figure 2B illustrated, the width of each arm portion 20, i.e. a first width W1, can be defined between the two opposite side surfaces 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the first width W1 is uniform, but in other (not illustrated) embodiments, the first width W1 can vary. For example, the first width W1 can taper towards the distal end 22 of each arm portion.

[0070] On each arm portion 20, a spring surface 60 is formed at the distal end of the arm portion 20. As Figure 2C and Figure 3A illustrated, one spring surface 60, i.e. a first spring surface 60', is formed at the distal end 22 of the first arm portion 20', and another spring surface 60, i.e. a second spring surface 60", is formed at the distal end 22 of the second arm portion 20".

[0071] The two spring surfaces 60 of the toy construction element 1 are arranged around and facing / towards the receiving space 30.

[0072] Furthermore, generally, the first spring surface 60' on the first arm portion 20' faces the second carrier surface section 25 on the second arm portion 20", and the second spring surface 60" on the second arm portion 20" faces the second carrier surface section 25 on the first arm portion 20'.

[0073] The spring surface 60, the first carrier surface section 15 at the base portion 10, and the two second carrier surface sections 25 on the arm portions 20 are formed on the toy connector element 1 such that, when the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 has been inserted into the receiving space 30, the outer surface 205 of the cylindrical section 201 is in contact with the spring surface 60, the first carrier surface section 15, and only a portion of the two second carrier surface sections 25.

[0074] Furthermore, as Figure 2B The spring surface 60, the first carrier surface section 15 at the base portion 10, and the two second carrier surface sections 25 on the arm portions 20 are formed on the toy connector element 1 such that, when the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 has been inserted into the receiving space 30, the spring surface 60 exerts a force on the cylindrical section 201 towards the first carrier surface section 15, i.e. towards the base portion 10. This is achieved by the elasticity or flexibility of the arm portions 20.

[0075] Thus, in the present embodiment, the first carrier surface section 15 and the portion of the two second carrier surface sections act as a bearing surface for the inserted cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200, and the spring surface 60 acts to hold the inserted cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 in place.

[0076] When inserting the second modular toy construction element 200 into the toy connector element 1, the spring surface 60 comes into contact with the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200. This is achieved by designing the position of the spring surface 60 on the toy connector element 1, which is intended to be connected to the cylindrical section 201, based on the diameter D1 of the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200.

[0077] In the embodiment shown in Figures 2A to 6B The spring surface 60 has a generally rectangular configuration with a width, i.e. a second width W2, and a length, i.e. a second length L2, as shown in Figure 3B Generally, the spring surface 60 can have other shapes. In any case, the width can vary along the length D2 of the spring surface, and the width W2 of the spring surface 60 is smaller than the width W1 of the connector arm portion 20, which is to be understood as the width between its side surfaces 28.

[0078] As already mentioned, each spring surface 60 also has a length L2 in the longitudinal direction of the arm portion 20 (the longitudinal direction can be understood as the direction between the proximal end 21 and the distal end 20 of the arm portion 20).

[0079] Now returning to the example of Figure 6A and 6B , it is shown that in the embodiment of Figures 2A to 6B , the spring surface 60 is formed on a structure, namely a protruding structure 70, which protrudes above the pivot structure 80, which in the shown embodiment also forms the distal end 22 of the arm portion 20.

[0080] Thus, the pivot structure 80 is located radially at a distance from the contact surface 40 (here exemplified by the spring surface 60) with respect to the receiving space 30. Furthermore, the pivot structure 80 is located axially at a distance from the contact surface 40, i.e. beyond the width W2 of the spring surface 60.

[0081] As shown, preferably, a pivot structure 80 is provided on each side of each spring surface 60 along the width direction of the spring surface 60, and the pivot structure 80 is located at the transition between the protruding structure 70 and the side surface 28 of the arm portion 20 of the toy connection element 1.

[0082] Hereby, it is possible to achieve that the toy connection element 1 is provided with an overload protection function. If a torsional force is applied to the cylindrical section 201 with respect to the toy connection element 1, the recessed abutment structure 80 will allow the cylindrical section 201 to rotate slightly with respect to the toy connection element 1, and the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 will only abut against the pivot structure 80 after this slight rotation. Further rotation will result in a pivoting around the pivot structure 80. Because the cylindrical section 201 is pivoted around the abutment point 80, this will cause the cylindrical section 201 to push the spring surface 60 in the direction of the entrance opening, thereby forcing the arm portion 20 to slightly separate, further disengaging the cylindrical section 201 from the toy connection element 1. Hereby, the risk of the toy connection element 1 breaking is reduced.

[0083] As mentioned above, preferably, as shown, one pivot structure 80 is provided on each side of each spring surface 60 along the width direction of the spring surface 60. However, in principle, only one recessed pivot structure 80 can reduce the risk of the arm portion breaking.

[0084] Thus, in one embodiment (not shown), the toy connection element 1 comprises only a single pivot structure 80, which is recessed behind the contact surface 40 (e.g. the spring surface 60) or a portion thereof.

[0085] In some embodiments of the toy connector element 1, a pivot structure 80 is formed on both sides of the contact surface 40 of one arm portion 20.

[0086] In some embodiments of the toy connector element 1, a pivot structure 80 is formed on both sides of the contact surface 40 of both arm portions 20.

[0087] In further embodiments (not shown) of the toy connector element 1, a pivot structure 80 is formed on one side of the contact surface 40 on both arm portions 20.

[0088] In the embodiments shown, as mentioned above, in some embodiments one or more pivot structures 80 are located behind and to the side of one or both spring surfaces 60 on the protrusion structure 70. However, in other (not shown) embodiments, at least in principle, the toy connector element 1 can not have any spring surfaces 60 as described above, for example, by press-fitting between the arm portions can hold the cylindrical section 201, and the partly cylindrical contact surface 40 can be configured to hold the second modular toy construction element 200, the entire contact surface 40 being formed on a protrusion structure, similar to the protrusion structure 70 described above for the spring surfaces 60 only. Such an alternative protrusion structure would protrude above the pivot structure 80 and extend along the entire contact surface 40.

[0089] For example, a surface (such as the second carrier surface section 25, or both the second carrier surface section 25 and the first carrier surface 15) can be formed on a protrusion structure (similar to the protrusion structure 70 at the spring surfaces 60 (as described above)) that protrudes above the pivot structure 80 formed at the intersection of the proximal end 21 of the arm portion 20 and the base 10 of the arm portion 20, and / or at the proximal end 21 of each arm portion 20.

[0090] However, in preferred embodiments, the contact surface 40 of the toy connector element 1 comprises a spring surface 60 configured to press the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 towards the bottom of the receiving space 30 when the cylindrical section 201 is located in the receiving space 30.

[0091] In any of the embodiments described above, the pivot structure 80 can extend along the contact surface 40 and diverge away from the mid-plane M of the toy connector element towards the distal end of the arm portions. Thus, if a torsional force is applied to the cylindrical section 201 relative to the toy connector element 1, the diverging recessed abutment structure 80 will cause one end of the cylindrical section 201 to turn towards the passage 35 formed between the distal ends 22 of the two arm portions 20, thereby facilitating the release of the cylindrical section 201 from the receiving space 30, thereby further reducing the risk of the arm portions breaking.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment, as shown in the figures, the pivot structures 80 are pivot edges 85. Preferably, the pivot edges 85 diverge away from the midplane of the toy connector element towards the distal ends of the arms. Thereby, the pivot edges 85 better guide the cylindrical section of a second modular toy construction element towards the passage 35 between the distal ends 22 of the arms 20, 20’, 20”. Thus, the pivot edges 85 are angled to each other and to the midplane M. The angle between the pivot edges 85 and the midplane M is preferably in the interval of -1 , for example -1 or for example - .

[0093] The width W2 of the contact surface 40, for example the spring surface 60 described above, is preferably in the interval of 1 / 3 - 2 / 3 of the width between the pivot structures 80, for example the pivot edges 85, on one arm 20.

[0094] To facilitate the insertion of the cylindrical section 201 of a second modular toy construction element 200 into the receiving space 30, an entry guide surface 90, for example a spring surface 60 on a protruding structure 70, can be formed at the distal end of the contact surface 40; the entry guide surface 90 is angled relative to the contact surface 40 and diverges relative to the midplane M, such that the entry guide surface 90 can act as a guide for the cylindrical section 201 of a second modular toy construction element 200 when inserting the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 into the receiving space 30, and can also be used to spread the arms 20 apart during the insertion process.

[0095] When inserting the cylindrical section 201 of a second modular toy construction element 200, the cylindrical section 201 will rest against the entry guide surface 90 with a transition to the spring surface 60 and force the arms 20 apart from each other until the distance of the entry opening 35 between the distal ends 22 of the arms 20 equals the diameter of the cylindrical section 201, i.e. the first diameter D1. Then, if further pressure is applied to the receiving space 30, the elasticity of the arms 20 will move the spring surfaces 30 apart from each other and the cylindrical section 201 will be forced by the spring surfaces 60 towards the base 10 of the toy connector element 1.

[0096] In the embodiment as shown in the figures, each spring surface 60 is located on a protruding structure 70 at a position higher than the pivot structure 80. Thus, each spring surface 60 is preferably connected to the pivot structure 80 or the second carrier surface 25 by a lateral surface 73 formed laterally of the contact surface, for example the spring surface 60.

[0097] The rest position is when the arms 20 are not forced apart from each other by e.g. the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 being located in the receiving space 30. Thus, due to the unloaded position / rest position of the arms 20, the spring surfaces 60 are positioned closer to each other than the length of the first diameter, the spring surfaces 60 will be biased towards the centre of the receiving space 30, and thus towards the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 when the cylindrical section 201 is located in the receiving space 30. Thus, the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular toy construction element 200 can be tightly fixed in the receiving space 30 when inserted.

[0098] In other embodiments, as shown in Figures 2A to 6B The contact surface 40, e.g. the spring surface 60 on each arm 20, has a width W2 which is smaller than the width of the arm 20 between the two spaced apart side surfaces 28, i.e. the first width W1.

[0099] Figure 2B And Figure 2C The interaction forces between the toy connector element 1 and the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular construction element 200 when connected are illustrated. Figure 2B The toy connector element 1 and the cylindrical section 201 of the second modular construction element 200 in Figure 2A are shown in a front view.

[0100] It is noted that the illustrations and the above description exhibit the exemplary embodiments in a simple schematic way. Many specific mechanical details are not exhibited, since the person skilled in the art will be familiar with these details and the exhibition of these details would only unnecessarily complicate the present description. For example, the specific materials used and the specific injection molding process are not described in detail, since it is considered that the person skilled in the art will be able to find suitable materials and suitable processes to manufacture the toy connector element according to the present application.

[0101] List of components

[0102] 1 toy connector element

[0103] 1’ C-connector / C-shaped connector of the prior art

[0104] 10 base, base of the toy connector element

[0105] 11 proximal end of the base (connected to the modular toy construction element)

[0106] 12 distal end of the base

[0107] 15 first carrier surface section, carrier surface section of the base / facing the receiving space and base surface formed at the distal end of the base

[0108] 20 arm / connector arm (extending from the distal end of the base)

[0109] 20' first arm / first connector arm

[0110] 20" second arm / second connector arm

[0111] 25 second carrier surface section, carrier surface section of the arm / facing the receiving space

[0112] 28 side surface of the arm of the toy connector element

[0113] 29 outer surface of the arm of the toy connector element, facing away from the receiving space

[0114] 30 receiving space formed between the connector arms

[0115] 35 passage to the receiving space, the entrance opening being formed between the distal ends of the connector arms

[0116] 40 contact surface

[0117] 50 carrier surface, inner side / facing-in surface of the toy connector element, in some embodiments this surface can constitute part of the contact surface

[0118] 60 spring surface, in some embodiments this spring surface can constitute part of the contact surface

[0119] 60' spring surface on the first connector arm

[0120] 60" spring surface on the second connector arm

[0121] 70 protruding structure, extending above the pivot structure

[0122] 70' protruding structure on the first connector arm

[0123] 70" protruding structure on the second connector arm

[0124] 80 pivot structure

[0125] 85 edge of the pivot structure, pivot edge

[0126] 90 entrance guide surface

[0127] 100 first modular toy construction element

[0128] 101 brick

[0129] 102 upper surface / top surface of the brick

[0130] 103 lower surface of brick / lower surface

[0131] 104 side surface of brick

[0132] 110 base of prior art snap connection

[0133] 120 arm of prior art snap connection / connection arm

[0134] 130 receiving space formed between the arms of the prior art snap connection / connection arms

[0135] 135 entry opening to the receiving space, formed between the distal ends of the arms of the prior art snap connection / connection arms

[0136] 150 inner surface / contact surface, inner side / inwardly facing surface of the prior art snap connection 1

[0137] 200 second modular toy construction element

[0138] 201 cylindrical section / rod section of the second modular toy construction element

[0139] 205 outer surface of the cylindrical section / cylindrical outer surface

[0140] C axial direction C / longitudinal axis C of the cylindrical section of the second modular toy construction element

[0141] D1 diameter of the rod section of the second modular toy construction element

[0142] DF insertion direction, which is transverse to the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical section of the second modular construction element. DK can also denote the pulling force between the toy connection element and the cylindrical section of the second modular construction element.

[0143] FF insertion direction, which is the insertion direction of the cylindrical section of the second modular construction element into the receiving space of the first modular toy construction element when inserted along the longitudinal direction C of the cylindrical section of the second modular construction element. FF can also denote the direction of the frictional force between the toy connection element and the cylindrical section of the second modular construction element.

[0144] TF torsional force between the toy connection element and the cylindrical section of the second modular construction element

[0145] TQ torque between the toy connection element and the cylindrical section of the second modular construction element

[0146] W1 width of the connection arm

[0147] W2 width of spring surface

[0148] L2 length of spring surface

Claims

1. A toy connector element (1) for connecting a first modular toy construction element (100) to a second modular toy construction element (200). The second modular toy construction element (200) includes a cylindrical section (201) having a cylindrical outer surface (205) and a first diameter (D1). The toy connector element (1) includes -Base (10), having a proximal end (11) and a distal end (12); and - Two arms (20), each arm (20) extending from the distal end (12) of the base (10), the two arms (20) defining a receiving space (30) therebetween. in, Each of the two arms (20) has a proximal end (21), a distal end (22), and a width (W1) between the two side surfaces (29). The receiving space (30) is configured to receive a cylindrical section (201) of the second modular toy construction element (200). Each of the two arms (20) includes a contact surface (40) for holding the cylindrical segment (201) in the receiving space, the contact surface (40) having a second width (W2) which is smaller than the first width (W1). At least one arm (20) also includes a pivot structure (80). The pivoting structure (80) is located radially at a certain distance from the contact surface (40) relative to the receiving space (30); and The pivot structure (80) is located at a certain distance from the contact surface (40) in the axial direction.

2. The toy connector element (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The pivot structure (80) extends along the contact surface (40) and radiates from the middle surface (M) of the toy connector element (1) toward the distal end (22) of the arm (20).

3. The toy connector element (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The pivot structure (80) is the pivot edge (85).

4. The toy connector element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, At least the distal end (22) of each of the two arms (20) is flexible relative to the base (10).

5. The toy connector element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, At least a portion of the contact surface (40) is formed on the protrusion structure (70), which protrudes from the pivot structure (80) relative to the receiving space (30), and wherein the pivot structure (80) is formed at the transition between the side surface (28) of the arm (20) and the protrusion structure (70) of the arm (20).

6. The toy connector element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The contact surface (40) includes a spring surface (60) configured to press the cylindrical section (201) of the second modular toy construction element (200) against the bottom of the receiving space (30) when the cylindrical section (201) is located in the receiving space (30).

7. The toy connector element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, A pivot structure (80) is formed on both sides of the contact surface (40) of the arm (20).

8. The toy connector element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The pivot structure (80) is formed on the two arms (20).

9. The toy connector element (1) according to claim 8, wherein, The pivot structure (80) extends from a first spring surface (60') formed on a first arm (20') of the two arms (20) to a second spring surface (60") formed on a second arm (20") of the two arms (20), the two spring surfaces (60) being connected by a carrier surface (50) that protrudes above the pivot structure (80).

10. The toy connector element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The proximal end (11) of the base (10) can be connected to or connected to the first modular toy construction element (100).

11. The toy connector element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, When the toy connector element (1) is in an unstressed state, that is, when there is no cylindrical section (201) in the receiving space (30), the maximum distance between the far ends (22) of the two arms (20) is less than the diameter of the cylindrical section (201) of the second modular toy construction element (200), that is, the first diameter (D1).

12. The toy connector element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The receiving space (30) is configured to receive the cylindrical segment (201) of the second modular toy construction element (200) through a channel (35) formed between the distal ends (22) of the two arms (20).

13. The toy connector element (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The receiving space (30) is configured to receive the cylindrical section (201) of the second modular toy construction element (200) along the axial direction of the cylindrical section (201).

14. A combination of a toy connector element (1) and a second modular toy construction element (200) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The second modular toy construction element (200) includes a cylindrical section (201) having a cylindrical outer surface (205) and a first diameter (D1).

Images