Science, technology, engineering, and math construction devices, systems, and kits

Abstract

A coupler for a science, technology, engineering, and math construction system. The coupler includes a base having a first side and an opposite second side. A plurality of first snaps extend from the first side of the base, and the first snaps are configured to detachably couple the coupler to a first truss. A plurality of second snaps extend from the second side of the base, and the second snaps are configured to detachably couple the coupler to a second truss.

Description

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATH CONSTRUCTION DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND KITSCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to and the benefit of under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 480,277, filed January 17, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 510,103, filed on June 23, 2023, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to science, technology, engineering, and math (■’STEM") construction devices, systems, and kits. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to STEM construction devices, systems, and kits that include simplified couplers for coupling adjacent structures.BACKGROUND

[0003] STEM construction systems typically seek to foster learning and interest in science, technology, engineering, and math, as well as encouraging creativity. However, these objectives are commonly undermined by the complexity of such systems. For example, STEM construction systems typically require multiple components, such as spacers and bearing plates, to connect adjacent structures. Accordingly, simplified STEM construction devices, systems, and kits that facilitate ease of use would be beneficial.SUMMARY

[0004] In a first exemplary embodiment, a coupler for a science, technology, engineering, and math construction system, the coupler comprising: a base comprising a first side and an opposite second side; a plurality of first snaps extending from the first side of the base, the first snaps configured to detachably couple the coupler to a first truss; and a plurality of second snaps extending from the second side of the base, the second snaps configured to detachably couple the coupler to a second truss.

[0005] In a second exemplary embodiment, the coupler of the first exemplary embodiment, wherein the base comprises a global flexing mode, the first snaps comprise a first local flexing mode, and the second snaps comprise a second local flexing mode.

[0006] In a third exemplary embodiment, the coupler of any of the previous embodiments, wherein each of the first snaps comprises a lead-in surface comprising a first angle and a lead-out surface comprising a second angle, the second angle being different than the first angle.

[0007] In a fourth exemplary7embodiment, the coupler of any of the previous embodiments, wherein the coupler comprises a longitudinal axis extending from the first side to the second side, and the first angle is in an inclusive range of 40 degrees to 60 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0008] In a fifth exemplary embodiment, the coupler of any of the previous embodiments, wherein the coupler comprises a longitudinal axis extending from the first side to the second side, and the second angle is in an inclusive range of 80 degrees to 100 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0009] In a sixth exemplar}7embodiment, the coupler of any of the previous embodiments, wherein the coupler further comprises: a plurality7of first torque transmitters extending from the first side of the base, the first torque transmitters configured to transmit torque from the coupler to the first truss; and a plurality of second torque transmitters extending from the second side of the base, the second torque transmitters configured to transmit torque from the coupler to the second truss.

[0010] In a seventh exemplary embodiment, the coupler of any of the previous embodiments, wherein the coupler comprises a longitudinal axis extending from the first side to the second side, and the first torque transmitters and the second torque transmitters are configured to transmit torque about the longitudinal axis.

[0011] In an eighth exemplary embodiment, the coupler of any of the previous embodiments, wherein the coupler further comprises an aperture extending from the first side of the base to the second side of the base.

[0012] In a ninth exemplary7embodiment, the coupler of any of the previous embodiments, wherein the aperture extends along the longitudinal axis.

[0013] In a tenth exemplary embodiment, the coupler of any of the previous embodiments, wherein the coupler further comprises a midplane disposed between the first side and the second side, and the coupler is symmetrical over the midplane.

[0014] In an eleventh exemplary7embodiment, a science, technology, engineering, and math construction kit comprising: a truss comprising a receiving aperture; and a coupler configured to be detachably received in the receiving aperture of the truss, the couplercomprising a base and a plurality of snaps extending from the base, the snaps configured to detachably couple the coupler to the truss.

[0015] In a twelfth exemplary embodiment, the kit of the eleventh exemplary embodiment, wherein the coupler further comprises a plurality of torque transmitters configured to transmit torque from the coupler to the truss.

[0016] In a thirteenth exemplary embodiment, the kit of any of the previous exemplary embodiments, wherein the coupler comprises a longitudinal axis and is movable parallel to the longitudinal axis to detachably couple to the truss, and the torque transmitters are configured to transmit torque about the longitudinal axis.

[0017] In a fourteenth exemplary embodiment, the kit of any of the previous exemplary embodiments, wherein the torque transmitters are received in comers of the receiving aperture.

[0018] In a fifteenth exemplary embodiment, the kit of any of the previous exemplary embodiments, wherein the truss includes an inner rim within the receiving aperture, when the coupler is coupled to the truss, the snaps extend from a first side of the inner rim to a second side of the inner rim. and the torque transmitters are disposed on the first side of the inner rim.

[0019] In a sixteenth exemplary embodiment, the kit of any of the previous exemplary embodiments, wherein the base comprises a global flexing mode and the snaps comprise a local flexing mode.

[0020] In a seventeenth exemplary embodiment, the kit of any of the previous exemplary embodiments, wherein each of the snaps comprises a lead-in surface comprising a first angle and a lead-out surface comprising a second angle, the second angle being different than the first angle.

[0021] In a eighteenth exemplary' embodiment, the kit of any of the previous exemplary embodiments, wherein the coupler is a first coupler and the plurality of snaps is a first plurality of snaps, the first plurality of snaps being stationary relative to each another, and further comprising a second coupler comprising: a plurality of second snaps; and a plurality of third snaps being rotatable relative to the plurality of second snaps.

[0022] In a nineteenth exemplary’ embodiment, a science, technology, engineering, and math construction kit comprising: a first coupler comprising: a first longitudinal axis; a first maximum cross-sectional area footprint perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis; a first base comprising a first side and an opposite second side, the first side and the second side being offset along the first longitudinal axis; a plurality of first snaps extending from the first side of the first base; a plurality of second snaps extending from the second side of the first base, the plurality of second snaps being stationary relative to the plurality of first snaps; a secondcoupler comprising: a second longitudinal axis; a second maximum cross-sectional area footprint perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis; a second base comprising a third side and an opposite fourth side, the third side and the fourth side being offset along the second longitudinal axis; a plurality of third snaps extending from the third side of the second base; and a plurality of fourth snaps extending from the fourth side of the second base, the plurality of fourth snaps being rotatable relative to the plurality of third snaps about the second longitudinal axis; wherein the first maximum cross-sectional area footprint and the second maximum cross-sectional area footprint are substantially equal.

[0023] In a twentieth exemplary embodiment, the kit of the nineteenth exemplary embodiment, wherein the first coupler further comprises a first mounting distance between a first lead-out surface of a first snap of the plurality’ of first snaps and a second lead-out surface of a second snap of the plurality of second snaps, the second coupler further comprises a second mounting distance between a third lead-out surface of a third snap of the plurality of third snaps and a fourth lead-out surface of a fourth snap of the plurality of fourth snaps, and the first mounting distance and the second mounting distance are substantially equal.

[0024] While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0025] FIG. 1 is perspective view of a STEM construction system, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 2A is an exploded perspective view of a coupler and a truss of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 2B is another exploded perspective view of the coupler and the truss of FIG. 2A.

[0028] FIG. 2C is an assembled perspective view of the coupler and the truss of FIG. 2A.

[0029] FIG. 2D is a side sectional view of the coupler and the truss along line 2D of FIG. 2C.

[0030] FIG. 2E is a side sectional view of the coupler and the truss along line 2E of FIG. 2C.

[0031] FIG. 2F is a cross sectional view of the coupler and the truss along line 2F of FIG. 2C.

[0032] FIG. 3 A is a side view of the coupler of FIG. 2A.

[0033] FIG. 3B is a detail side view of the coupler within tine 3B-3B of FIG. 3A.

[0034] FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 2A.

[0035] FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system ofFIG. 1. according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 4B is a front view of the coupler of FIG. 4A.

[0037] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system ofFIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 5B is a front view of the coupler of FIG. 5 A.

[0039] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system ofFIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 6B is an exploded perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 6A.

[0041] FIG. 6C is a front view of the coupler of FIG. 6A.

[0042] FIG. 6D is a perspective view comparing the coupler of FIG. 2A and the coupler of FIG. 6A.

[0043] FIG. 6E is a side view comparing the coupler of FIG. 2A and the coupler of FIG. 6A.

[0044] FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 7B is an exploded perspective view of the coupler of FIG. 7A.

[0046] FIG. 8A is a front view of a coupler of the STEM construction system of FIG.1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 8B is a side sectional view of the coupler along line 8B-8B of FIG. 8 A.

[0048] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of a truss of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 9B is an exploded perspective view of the truss of FIG. 9A.

[0050] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a coupler-truss of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 11 A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary' embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 1 IB is a front view of the coupler of FIG. 11A.

[0053] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 12B is a front view of the coupler of FIG. 12A.

[0055] FIG. 13 A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplar}' embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 13B is a front view of the coupler of FIG. 13 A.

[0057] FIG. 14A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 14B is a front view of the coupler of FIG. 14A.

[0059] FIG. 15A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 15B is a front view of the coupler of FIG. 15 A.

[0061] FIG. 16A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplar}' embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 16B is a side view of the coupler of FIG. 16A.

[0063] FIG. 17A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 17B is a side view of the coupler of FIG. 17 A.

[0065] FIG. 18A is a perspective view of a coupler of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIG. 18B is a side view of the coupler of FIG. 18 A.

[0067] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a driver of the STEM construction system ofFIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of a truss of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplar}' embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of a truss of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplar}' embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] FIG. 22A is a perspective view of a truss of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1. according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] FIG. 22B is a front view of the truss of FIG. 22 A.

[0072] FIG. 23A is a perspective view of a truss of the STEM construction system ofFIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 23B is a front view of the truss of FIG. 23 A.

[0074] FIG. 24A is a perspective view of an anchor of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 24B is a front view of the anchor of FIG. 24A.

[0076] FIG. 25A is a perspective view of an anchor of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplar}' embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 25B is a front view of the anchor of FIG. 25 A.

[0078] FIG. 26A is a perspective view of an electrical component of the STEM construction system of FIG. 1, according to an exemplary’ embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] FIG. 26B is another perspective view of the electrical component of FIG. 26A.

[0080] FIG. 26C is another perspective view of the electrical component of FIG. 26A.

[0081] FIG. 26D is a perspective view of a female connector of the electrical component of FIG. 26 A.

[0082] FIG. 26E is another perspective view of the female connector of FIG. 26D.

[0083] FIG. 26F is a perspective view of a male connector of the electrical component of FIG. 26 A.

[0084] FIG. 26G is another perspective view of the male connector of FIG. 26F.

[0085] It should be understood that the drawings are intended facilitate understanding of exemplary embodiments of the present invention are not necessarily to scale.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0086] The following description refers to the accompanying drawings which show specific embodiments. Although specific embodiments are shown and described, it is to be understood that additional and / or alternative features are employed in other embodiments. The following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the claimed invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0087] It should be understood that like reference numerals are intended to identify the same structural components, elements, portions, or surfaces consistently throughout the several drawing figures, as such components, elements, portions, or surfaces may be further described or explained by the entire written specification, of which this detailed description is an integral part. Unless otherwise indicated, the drawings are intended to be read (for example, crosshatching, arrangement of parts, proportion, degree, etc.) together with the specification, and are to be considered a portion of the w ritten description.

[0088] FIG. 1 illustrates a STEM construction system 100, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates the system 100 in an exemplary configuration, although the system 100 may be arranged in various user-constructed configurations. The system 100 may be provided to a user as a kit - that is, with one or more components of the system 100 detached from each other.

[0089] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the construction system 100 generally includes a plurality of couplers 102 (three of which are identified in FIG. 1) and a plurality of trusses 104 (three of which are identified in FIG. 1). The system 100 also generally includes one or more drivers (show n elsewhere) for imparting relative motion to one or more of the couplers 102 and one or more of the trusses 104. Additionally, the system 100 includes one or more retainers (shown elsewhere) for maintaining relative positions of one or more of the couplers 102 and one or more of the trusses 104. The system 100 further includes one or more electrical components (shown elsewhere) for controlling relative motion of one or more of the couplers 102 and one or more of the trusses 104 and / or providing information to a user regarding operation of the system 100.

[0090] As described in further detail below, the couplers 102 and the trusses 104 include unit dimensions to permit coupling in various manners, thereby providing a high degree of design versatility to users of the system 100. Similarly, one or more of the couplers 102 may couple the trusses 104 in a manner that provides no space betw een the trusses 104, which further provides a high degree of design versatility to users of the system 100.

[0091] With continued reference to FIG. 1 , one or more of the couplers 102 may couple the trusses 104 in a manner that inhibits relative motion, such as relative rotation and relative translation, between the trusses 104. Stated another way, one or more of the couplers 102 may be static couplers. One or more of the couplers 102 may couple the trusses 104 in a manner that facilitates relative motion, such as relative rotation and / or relative translation, between the trusses 104. Stated another w ay, one or more of the couplers 102 may be dynamic couplers. Various aspects of the trusses 104 and couplers 102 are described in further detail below.

[0092] FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate a coupler 200 and a plate-like truss 202, which may also be referred to as a plate, of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring first to FIGS. 2A-2C, the truss 202 generally includes a plurality of struts 206 that define a plurality of receiving apertures 208 for detachably receiving the coupler 200. The truss 202 illustratively includes two receiving apertures 208, although trusses according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a different number of receiving apertures, such as one, three, four, or more receiving apertures. Thecoupler 200 generally includes a base 210 from which a plurality of snaps 212 extend. The snaps 212 are configured to detachably couple the coupler 200 to one or more trusses, such as the truss 202 and a second truss (not shown). The coupler 200 illustratively includes a plurality of first snaps 212A on a first side 214A of the base 210 for detachably coupling the coupler 200 to a first truss, such as the truss 202, and a plurality7of second snaps 212B on a second side 214B of the base 210 for detachably coupling the coupler 200 to a second truss (not shown). The plurality of first snaps 212A illustratively includes two first snaps 212A and the plurality of second snaps 212B illustratively includes two second snaps 212B. However, couplers according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a different number of snaps, such as two or eight snaps. The coupler 200 is configured to attach to and detach from the truss 202 by moving parallel to a longitudinal axis 216 of the coupler 200 and perpendicular to the receiving apertures 208 of the truss 202.

[0093] The coupler 200 may be a monolithic component constructed of a relatively flexible material, such as a thermoplastic, more specifically a thermoplastic at least partially including a polyoxymethylene like Delrin®, even more specifically about 95% of a first polyoxymethylene (such as a general purpose polyoxymethylene, for example, Celcon® M90) and 5% of a second polyoxymethylene (such as a super-toughened polyoxymethylene, for example, Delrin® 100ST NC010), to facilitate ease of coupling to one or more trusses. Both the base 210 and the snaps 212 may flex or bend to facilitate coupling the coupler 200 to one or more trusses. Stated another way, the base 210 provides the coupler 200 with a global flexing mode, the first snaps 212A provide the coupler 200 with a first local flexing mode, and the second snaps 212B provide the coupler 200 with a second local flexing mode. When coupling the coupler 200 to a first truss, both the first snaps 212A and the base 210 may flex. When coupling the coupler 200 to a second truss, the second snaps 212B may flex but the base 210 may remain stationary, thereby providing slightly increased resistance to coupling the coupler 200 to, and detaching the coupler 200 from, a second truss compared to a first truss.

[0094] Referring specifically to FIGS. 2D-2F, additional details of the truss 202 and the coupler 200 are illustrated. Referring more specifically to FIG. 2D, the truss 202 includes a first, relatively large inner rim 218 within the receiving aperture 208 and a second, relatively small inner rim 220 within the receiving aperture 208 and extending inwardly from the first inner rim 218. Illustratively, both the first inner rim 218 and the second inner rim 220 have open generally rectangular shapes. When the coupler 200 is coupled to the truss 202, the first snaps 212A extend from a first side 222A of the second inner rim 220 and contact a second side 222B of the second inner rim 220. The first side 222A and the second side 222B of thesecond inner rim 220 may include flat surfaces, in contrast to angled lead-in surfaces of other trusses described herein.

[0095] Referring now to FIGS. 2E and 2F, the coupler 200 further includes a plurality of torque transmitters 224 configured to transmit torque from the coupler 200 to one or more trusses, such as the truss 202. The coupler 200 illustratively includes a plurality' of first torque transmitters 224 A on the first side 214A of the base 210 for transmitting torque from the coupler 200 to a first truss, such as the truss 202, and a plurality of second torque transmitters 224B on the second side 214B of the base 210 for transmitting torque from the coupler 200 to a second truss (not shown). Illustratively, the first torque transmitters 224A are received in first comers 226 A of the receiving aperture 208 defined by the first inner rim 218 and the second inner rim 220 on the first side 222A of the second inner rim 220. Although not specifically illustrated, the second torque transmitters 224B are received in second comers of a second truss. The torque transmitters 224 may facilitate transmitting torque about multiple axes, including the longitudinal axis 216 of the coupler 200.

[0096] Referring specifically to FIGS. 3A-3C. additional details of the coupler 200 are illustrated. The snaps 212 of the coupler 200 may be shaped and / or sized to facilitate relative ease of coupling to a truss and provide higher resistance to detaching from a truss. Referring more specifically to FIG. 3B, each snap 212 includes a lead-in surface 228 with a shalloyv angle 230 relative to a direction 232 parallel to the longitudinal axis 216 and a lead-out surface 234 with a steep angle 236 relative to the direction 232 parallel to the longitudinal axis 216. The shallow angle 230 may be in an inclusive range of 40 degrees to 60 degrees relative to the direction 232 and the longitudinal axis 216. The steep angle 236 may be in an inclusive range of 80 degrees to 100 degrees relative to the direction 232 and the longitudinal axis 216. The thickness of the snaps 212, apart from the lead-in surface 228 and the lead-out surface 234, may have a ratio to the perimeter thickness of the base 210 in an inclusive range of 0.4 to 0.6, and a ratio to the inner thickness of the base 210 in an inclusive range of .07 to 1.0.

[0097] With further reference to FIGS. 3A-3C, the coupler 200 further comprises a central boss 238 that defines a central aperture 240. The aperture 240 extends from the first side 214A of the base 210 to the second side 214B of the base 210 and along the longitudinal axis 216 of the coupler 200. The aperture 240 is configured to rotatably receive a round shaft (not shown), which may couple to one or more components on one or both sides of the coupler 200. The coupler 200 alone may be configured to rotatably carry the shaft via the aperture 240 - that is, the coupler 200 may obviate the need for additional components for rotatably carryingthe shaft, such as separate bearing plates. The central boss 238 and the aperture 240 may extend along the longitudinal axis 216 of the coupler 200.

[0098] Referring specifically to FIG. 3C, the coupler 200 defines a midplane 242 between the first side 214A and the second side 214B of the base 210. The coupler 200 is symmetrical over the midplane 242.

[0099] FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate a coupler 300 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 300 is generally similar to half of the coupler 200 described hereinabove. More specifically, the coupler 300 includes first snaps 312 for coupling to a first truss (shown elsewhere), but lacks second snaps and instead includes a flat rear surface (not shown). The coupler 300 also includes a central boss 338 and a central aperture 340 for receiving a round shaft (not shown). Accordingly, the coupler 300 is configured to couple to a single truss and act as a rotational bearing for a round shaft.[000100] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate a coupler 400 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 400 is generally similar to the coupler 200 described hereinabove. More specifically, the coupler 400 includes first snaps 412 for coupling to a first truss (shown elsewhere), but lacks second snaps and instead includes a flat rear surface (not shown). However, the coupler 400 also includes a central boss 438 and a spline-shaped aperture 440 for receiving a spline shaft (shown elsewhere). Accordingly, the coupler 400 is configured to couple to a single truss and rotatably drive the truss via a spline shaft.[000101] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate a coupler 500 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 500 is generally similar to the coupler 200 described hereinabove. More specifically, the coupler 500 includes first snaps 512A for coupling to a first truss (shown elsewhere) and second snaps 512B for coupling to a second truss (shown elsewhere). However, the first snaps 512A and the second snaps 512B extend from a first base portion 550A and a second base portion 550B, respectively, that are relatively rotatable about the longitudinal axis 516. Accordingly, the coupler 500 is configured to couple a first truss and a second truss and permit relative rotation of the trusses about the longitudinal axis 516.[000102] Couplers according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may have similar sizes such that coupled components, such as trusses, may be spaced apart by similar distances regardless of the coupler(s) used. Stated another way, couplers according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure may have similar sizes to facilitate a commonpitch spacing for the system. The similar sizes of such couplers may be unit dimensions, as described elsewhere herein. For example, and referring to FIG. 6D. the coupler 200 and the coupler 500 may have similar cross-sectional sizes. More specifically, the coupler 200 may have a first maximum cross-sectional area footprint 244, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 216, that is the product of the maximum width of the coupler 200 and the maximum height of the coupler 200, the coupler 500 may have a second maximum cross-sectional area footprint 552, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 516. that is the product of the maximum width of the coupler 500 and the maximum height of the coupler 500, and the first maximum cross- sectional area footprint 244 and the second maximum cross-sectional area footprint 552 are substantially equal (that is, equal ± 5 percent of the nominal value). As another example and referring to FIG. 6E. the coupler 200 and the coupler 500 may have similar snap dimensions. More specifically, the coupler 200 has a first mounting distance 246 between the lead-out surfaces 234 on the snaps 212 on opposite sides of the coupler 200, the coupler 500 has a second mounting distance 554 between the lead-out surfaces 556 on the snaps 512 on opposite sides of the coupler 500, and the first mounting distance 246 and the second mounting distance 554 are substantially equal (that is, equal ± 5 percent of the nominal value).[000103] FIGS. 7A-7B illustrate a coupler 600 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary' embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 600 is generally similar to the coupler 200 described hereinabove. More specifically, the coupler 600 includes first snaps 612A for coupling to a first truss (shown elsewhere) and second snaps 612B for coupling to a second truss (shown elsewhere). However, the first snaps 612A and the second snaps 612 extend from a first base portion 650A and a second base portion 650B, respectively, that are relatively rotatable about a transverse axis 652 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 616. Accordingly, the coupler 600 is configured to couple a first truss and a second truss and permit relative rotation of the trusses about the transverse axis 652. Additionally, the first base portion 650A may include a spline-shaped aperture (not shown) for receiving a spline shaft (not shown).[000104] FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate a coupler 700 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 700 is generally7similar to the coupler 200 described hereinabove. More specifically, the coupler 700 includes first snaps 712 for coupling to a first truss (shown elsewhere), but lacks second snaps and instead includes a boss 754 having a drive screw aperture 756. The drive screw' aperture 756 receives a drive screw (shown elsewhere). Accordingly, the coupler 700 is configured to couple to a single truss and translatably drive the truss upon rotation of a drive screw7.[000105] FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate a truss 800 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary’ embodiment of the present disclosure. The truss 800 may be referred to as a “three-dimensional” truss, in contrast to the plate 104 described hereinabove. That is, the truss 800 includes a plurality of struts 802 (two of which are identified in FIGS. 9A-9B) that define one or more “cubes” 804. The cubes 804 include receiving apertures 806 (three of which are identified in FIGS. 9A-9B) that are parallel to one of three perpendicular spatial planes (that is, X-Y, X-Z, or Y-Z planes). Illustratively, the truss 800 includes the three cubes 804, two end cubes 804E and one intermediate cube 8041. Each end cube 804E includes five receiving apertures 806, and the intermediate cube 8041 includes four receiving apertures 806. Other three-dimensional trusses according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a different number and / or arrangement of cubes.[000106] The truss 800 also includes dividers 808 (two of which are identified in FIGS. 9A-9B) between adjacent cubes 804, and the dividers 808 are sized in view of the unit dimensions described briefly above. More specifically, the dividers 808 are sized such that the distance (referred to as one “unit”) between centers of adjacent cubes 804 is the same as the distance (also one unit) between the center of one cube 804 and the center of the nearest cube 804 of another truss (not show n) coupled via one of the couplers described herein, such as the coupler 202 (shown elsewhere). Again, such unit dimensions permit coupling trusses and couplers various manners, thereby providing a high degree of design versatility to users of the system 100.[000107] With continued reference to FIGS. 9A-9B, the truss 800 includes similar features as the truss 104 to facilitate coupling to one or more couplers, such as the coupler 202 (shown elsewhere). More specifically, each of the receiving apertures 806 is defined by a first inner rim 810 and a second inner rim 812. In contrast to the truss 104, however, the second inner rim 812 includes an angled lead-in surface, which may be in an inclusive range of 35 degrees to 55 degrees relative to the spatial plane parallel to the associated receiving aperture 806.[000108] With specific reference to FIG. 9B, the truss 800 may be constructed of a first portion 814 and a second portion 816 joined in an appropriate manner, such as via ultrasonic welding. The first portion 814 and the second portion 816 include connectors for connecting to those of the other portion. More specifically, the second portion 816 includes a plurality' of protrusions 818 that are received in a plurality of recesses (not shown) of the first portion 814, and the second portion 816 includes a plurality of recesses 820 for receiving protrusions (not shown) of the first portion. The first portion 814 and the second portion 816 both define halfof each of the cubes 804, including the entirety of the struts 802 that define an end receiving aperture 806E of the end cubes 804E. Such a construction has relatively high torsional strength compared to constructions that partially define the struts that define the end receiving aperture of the end cubes.[000109] FIG. 10 illustrate a coupler-truss 900 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler-truss 900 is similar to the truss 800 described hereinabove, except that the coupler-truss 900 includes a coupler section 902 for slidably coupling to another truss, such as the plate 104 (shown elsewhere).[000110] FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate a coupler 1000, more specifically a relatively large gear, of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 1000 includes one or more receiving apertures 1002 (illustratively, four receiving apertures 1002) for receiving one or more other couplers, such as the coupler 102 described hereinabove. The coupler 1000 includes a spline-shaped aperture 1004 for receiving a spline shaft (shown elsewhere). The coupler 1000 has a three-unit diameter and 60 teeth.[000111] FIGS. 12A-12B illustrate a coupler 1100, more specifically a relatively small gear, of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1 , according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 1100 includes a spline-shaped aperture 1102 for receiving a spline shaft (shown elsewhere). The coupler 1100 has a one-unit diameter and 20 teeth.[000112] FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate a coupler 1200, more specifically a relatively small pulley, of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 1200 includes a receiving aperture 1202 for receiving another coupler, such as the coupler 102 described hereinabove. The coupler 1200 includes an outer surface 1204 that is configured to engage a rope or belt (not shown - for example, for rotatably coupling to another pulley) or carry a similarly-sized, high friction loop (not shown - for example, for acting as a ground-engaging wheel). The coupler 1200 has a one-unit diameter.[000113] FIGS. 14A-14B illustrate a coupler 1300, more specifically an intermediate size pulley, of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 1300 includes a receiving aperture 1302 for receiving another coupler, such as the coupler 102 described hereinabove. The coupler 1300 includes an outer surface 1304 that is configured to engage a rope or belt (not shown - for example, for rotatably coupling to another pulley) or carry a similarly-sized, high friction loop (not shown - for example, for acting as a ground-engaging wheel). The coupler 1500 has a 1.5-unit diameter.[000114] FIGS. 15A-15B illustrate a coupler 1400, more specifically a relatively large pulley, of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 1400 includes one or more receiving apertures 1402 (illustratively, four receiving apertures 1402) for receiving one on more other couplers, such as the coupler 102 described hereinabove. The coupler 1400 includes a spline-shaped aperture 1404 for receiving a spline shaft (shown elsewhere). The coupler 1400 includes a plurality’ of secondary apertures 1406 for receiving a rope (not shown - for example, for coupling to another another). The coupler 1400 includes an outer surface 1408 that is configured to engage a rope or belt (not shown - for example, for rotatably coupling to another pulley) or carry’ a similarly- sized, high friction loop (not shown - for example, for acting as a ground-engaging wheel). The coupler 1400 has a three-unit diameter.[000115] FIGS. 16A-16B illustrate a coupler 1500, more specifically a spline shaft, of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary’ embodiment of the present disclosure.[000116] FIGS. 17A-17B illustrate a retainer 1600, more specifically a shaft collar, of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The retainer 1600 is configured to couple to a shaft, such as the spline shaft 1500 (shown elsew here), and maintain the axial position of another component, such as one of the couplers described herein, along the shaft 1500.[000117] FIGS. 18A-18B illustrate a coupler 1700. more specifically a drive screw, of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The coupler 1700 includes a spline-shaped aperture 1702 for receiving a spline shaft (shown elsewhere).[000118] FIG. 19 illustrate a driver 1800, more specifically a manual crank, of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The driver 1800 includes a base 1802 and freely rotatable handle 1804. The base 1802 includes a spline-shaped aperture 1806 for receiving a spline shaft (shown elsewhere).[000119] FIG. 20 illustrates a truss 1900 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The truss 1900 is similar to the truss 800 described hereinabove and further includes a weight 1902.[000120] FIG. 21 illustrates a truss 2000 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The truss 2000, like the truss 1900 described hereinabove, includes a weight 2002. However, the truss 2000 only includes a singlecube. Other weighted trusses according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a different number and / or arrangement of cubes.[000121] FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate a plate-like truss 2100 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.[000122] FIGS. 23A-23B illustrate a plate-like truss 2200 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.[000123] FIGS. 24A-24B illustrate a retainer 2300 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1. according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The retainer 2300 is configured to be secured to a rope, such as a rope engaged with one of the pulleys described hereinabove, to inhibit the rope from detaching from the pulley.[000124] FIGS. 25A-25B illustrate a construction tool 2400 of the STEM system 100 of FIG. 1, according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The tool 2400 includes various features to facilitate ease of assembling and disassembling components of the system 100.[000125] FIGS. 26A-26C illustrate an electrical component 2500 of the system 100. As described briefly above, such an electrical component may control relative motion of one or more couplers and one or more trusses and / or provide information to a user regarding operation of the system 100. As such, the electrical component 2500 may be, for example, a rotary7actuator for imparting rotational motion to one or more couplers and one or more trusses, a linear actuator for imparting translational motion to one or more couplers and one or more trusses, a sensor for sensing the position and / or motion of one or more couplers and one or more trusses, a user input (for example, a pressable or slidable button) for controlling one or more actuators or sensors, a power supply (for example, a battery ) for powering one or more actuators or sensors, or a display (for example, one or more light emitting diodes) for providing information to a user.[000126] Referring to FIG. 26 A, the electrical component 2500 includes a receiving aperture 2502 to facilitate detachably coupling to a coupler, such as the coupler 102 (shown elsewhere). Accordingly, the electrical component 2500 may be coupled to a truss, such as the truss 104 (shown elsewhere), via a coupler. The receiving aperture 2502 may be similar to those of any of the trusses described hereinabove, including the truss 800. The electrical component 2500 illustratively includes a width of one unit and a length of one unit. However, other electrical components according to embodiments of the present disclosure may have different dimensions (for example, 1 unit by 2 units, 1 unit by 3 units, and the like) and,correspondingly, a different number of receiving apertures (for example, two receiving apertures, three receiving aperture, and the like).[000127] Referring again generally to FIGS. 26A-26C and with additional reference to FIGS. 26D and 26E, the electrical component 2500 also includes a female electrical connector 2504 and a male electrical connector 2506, both of which may be six-pin connectors. The female electrical connector 2504 may be connected to the male electrical connector of another electrical component (not shown), and the male electrical connector 2506 may be connected to the female electrical connector of yet another electrical component (not shown). The electrical connectors 2504 and 2506 are advantageously relatively small (thereby facilitating the one 1 unit by 1 unit size of the electrical component 2500), relatively inexpensive, able to carry one to three amps of electrical current, and able to withstand 1000 cycles of attachment to and detachment from a coupler, such as the coupler 102 (shown elsewhere) insertion / removal cycles.[000128] Various other modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, while the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the above described features.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A coupler for a science, technology, engineering, and math construction system, the coupler comprising: a base comprising a first side and an opposite second side; a plurality of first snaps extending from the first side of the base, the first snaps configured to detachably couple the coupler to a first truss; and a plurality of second snaps extending from the second side of the base, the second snaps configured to detachably couple the coupler to a second truss.

2. The coupler of claim 1, wherein the base comprises a global flexing mode, the first snaps comprise a first local flexing mode, and the second snaps comprise a second local flexing mode.

3. The coupler of claim 1. wherein each of the first snaps comprises a lead-in surface comprising a first angle and a lead-out surface comprising a second angle, the second angle being different than the first angle.

4. The coupler of claim 3, wherein the coupler comprises a longitudinal axis extending from the first side to the second side, and the first angle is in an inclusive range of 40 degrees to 60 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

5. The coupler of claim 3, wherein the coupler comprises a longitudinal axis extending from the first side to the second side, and the second angle is in an inclusive range of 80 degrees to 100 degrees relative to the longitudinal axis.

6. The coupler of claim 1, wherein the coupler further comprises: a plurality of first torque transmitters extending from the first side of the base, the first torque transmitters configured to transmit torque from the coupler to the first truss; and a plurality of second torque transmitters extending from the second side of the base, the second torque transmitters configured to transmit torque from the coupler to the second truss.

7. The coupler of claim 6, wherein the coupler comprises a longitudinal axis extending from the first side to the second side, and the first torque transmitters and the second torque transmitters are configured to transmit torque about the longitudinal axis.

8. The coupler of claim 7, wherein the coupler further comprises an aperture extending from the first side of the base to the second side of the base.

9. The coupler of claim 8, wherein the aperture extends along the longitudinal axis.

10. The coupler of claim 1, wherein the coupler further comprises a midplane disposed between the first side and the second side, and the coupler is symmetrical over the midplane.

11. A science, technology, engineering, and math construction kit comprising: a truss comprising a receiving aperture; and a coupler configured to be detachably received in the receiving aperture of the truss, the coupler comprising a base and a plurality of snaps extending from the base, the snaps configured to detachably couple the coupler to the truss.

12. The kit of claim 11, wherein the coupler further comprises a plurality of torque transmitters configured to transmit torque from the coupler to the truss.

13. The kit of claim 12, wherein the coupler comprises a longitudinal axis and is movable parallel to the longitudinal axis to detachably couple to the truss, and the torque transmitters are configured to transmit torque about the longitudinal axis.

14. The kit of claim 12, wherein the torque transmitters are received in comers of the receiving aperture.

15. The kit of claim 12, wherein the truss includes an inner rim within the receiving aperture, when the coupler is coupled to the truss, the snaps extend from a first side of the inner rim to a second side of the inner rim, and the torque transmitters are disposed on the first side of the inner rim.

16. The kit of claim 11, wherein the base comprises a global flexing mode and the snaps comprise a local flexing mode.

17. The kit of claim 11, wherein each of the snaps comprises a lead-in surface comprising a first angle and a lead-out surface comprising a second angle, the second angle being different than the first angle.

18. The kit of claim 11 , wherein the coupler is a first coupler and the plurality of snaps is a first plurality of snaps, the first plurality7of snaps being stationary relative to each another, and further comprising a second coupler comprising: a plurality of second snaps; and a plurality of third snaps being rotatable relative to the plurality of second snaps.

19. A science, technology, engineering, and math construction kit comprising: a first coupler comprising: a first longitudinal axis; a first maximum cross-sectional area footprint perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis; a first base comprising a first side and an opposite second side, the first side and the second side being offset along the first longitudinal axis; a plurality' of first snaps extending from the first side of the first base; a plurality' of second snaps extending from the second side of the first base, the plurality' of second snaps being stationary relative to the plurality of first snaps; a second coupler comprising: a second longitudinal axis; a second maximum cross-sectional area footprint perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis; a second base comprising a third side and an opposite fourth side, the third side and the fourth side being offset along the second longitudinal axis; a plurality' of third snaps extending from the third side of the second base; and a plurality’ of fourth snaps extending from the fourth side of the second base, the plurality' of fourth snaps being rotatable relative to the plurality' of third snaps about the second longitudinal axis;wherein the first maximum cross-sectional area footprint and the second maximum cross-sectional area footprint are substantially equal.

20. The kit of claim 19, wherein the first coupler further comprises a first mounting distance between a first lead-out surface of a first snap of the plurality of first snaps and a second lead- out surface of a second snap of the plurality of second snaps, the second coupler further comprises a second mounting distance between a third lead-out surface of a third snap of the plurality of third snaps and a fourth lead-out surface of a fourth snap of the plurality of fourth snaps, and the first mounting distance and the second mounting distance are substantially equal.

Images