Modular screw-building block system with combinable, thread-based connecting elements and expandable functional units

Abstract

Modular screw building block system, consisting of a plurality of combinable building blocks, wherein at least one building block has both an external thread (B) and an internal thread (D) and further building blocks each have an external thread (B), an internal thread (D) or no thread, wherein the building blocks can be connected to one another via these threads.

Description

Technical area:

[0001] The invention relates to a modular connection system with playable building elements, which is mechanically connected by rotating screw connections. Its geometry and defined interfaces make it suitable for a variety of functional and decorative extensions. The system is particularly suitable for use in the fields of toy technology, model making, construction elements, and presentation systems. State of the art:

[0002] Clamping and plug-in building blocks (e.g. LEGO ® While modular construction is possible, they reach their limits in terms of mechanical stability, rotatable components, and functional expandability. Existing systems are mostly based on frictional locking and do not allow for play-friendly screw connections or a combination of internal and external threads within a modular concept. Object of the invention:

[0003] The goal is to create a system that is both mechanically robust and flexibly expandable, easy to assemble and disassemble - and can also integrate accessories such as armor, weapons, wheels, figure heads, functional parts, etc., without requiring a new connection concept. Description of the invention:

[0004] The system according to the invention consists of a multitude of modular components that can be connected to one another by rotating screw connections. The central basic component has both an internal thread (D) and an external thread (B). Other components can optionally: • only one external thread (B), • only one internal thread (D), or • have no thread (e.g. for intermediate or decorative elements).

[0005] The building blocks can be connected coaxially using standardized threads, thus forming a mechanically stable structure.

[0006] Various special modules are provided to expand the system, including: • Lid and base blocks for structural limitation • Connectors in the form of circular geometries for horizontal coupling, including with different diameters for different properties and combination possibilities (C) • Rotatable joint modules with 360° rotation • passive adapter stones for clip-on accessories

[0007] The system modules have so-called handling flanks (A) at defined locations - structured or shaped areas that facilitate manual gripping and turning.

[0008] For particularly strong connections, a special tool is provided which engages these flanks (A) in a form-fitting manner and enables force-assisted disassembly.

[0009] The modules have standardized connection geometries (e.g. standardized outer diameters, flange connections or snap-in profiles) that allow the connection of additional functional units, including: • Armor • Weapons or tools • Decorative elements • Tires, chains, springs or drive modules • Electrical or mechanical modules (e.g. lighting)

[0010] The system is designed so that all expansion components can be plugged or screwed in modularly – without changing the basic system. Manufacturing is preferably carried out using additive 3D printing, but is not limited to a specific material or manufacturing process. Advantages of the invention: • High mechanical stability due to thread-based connection • Flexibly combinable module parts with internal / external threads • Horizontally expandable joints with circular structure • 360° rotatable components • Optional tool for effortless disassembly via defined flanks • System-open expandability for accessories such as armor, weapons, wheels, attachments, etc. • Production by 3D printing or alternative processes • Reusability & expandability without re-registration for new add-on parts

Claims

[1] Modular screw-type building block system consisting of a plurality of combinable building blocks, wherein at least one building block has both an external thread (B) and an internal thread (D) and further building blocks have either an external thread (B), an internal thread (D) or no thread, wherein the building blocks can be connected to each other via these threads. [2] Building block system according to claim 1, characterized by , that individual building blocks are designed as lid or base modules, which fulfill a structural boundary or closing function. [3] Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein connecting elements with ring-shaped geometry and different diameters are provided for different properties and combination possibilities (C) that enable horizontal coupling of several structures. [4] Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one joint module is provided which enables 360° rotation about one or more axes. [5] Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein individual modules have handling flanks (A) or gripping zones which facilitate manual or tool-assisted screwing or loosening. [6] Building block system according to claim 5, wherein a tool is provided which engages positively with the flanks (A) of a building block to assist in manual loosening or tightening. [7] Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein standardized connection geometries are provided for attaching additional accessories. [8] Building block system according to claim 7, wherein the accessories comprise functional or decorative extensions, in particular armor, weapons, wheels, springs and figure attachments or movable modules. [9] A modular system according to any of the preceding claims, made of any dimensionally stable material, preferably by additive manufacturing such as 3D printing. [10] Modular system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein all modular components are mechanically detachable, reusable and combinable in different shapes, lengths and functions.

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