MODULAR CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND SYSTEM WITH MECHANICAL LOCKING AND ALIGNMENT ELEMENTS

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular children's play structure system with mechanical interlocking and alignment elements that enables children to create safe, portable, reconfigurable play areas in various geometric forms both indoors and outdoors. The system consists of modular panel elements with different geometries, injection-molded corner pieces, load-bearing profile elements, connection areas using welding, gluing, or mechanical fastening methods, textile surfaces, magnetic elements, and external mechanical interlocking elements. When the panels are brought close together, automatic alignment occurs thanks to the directionally independent magnetic elements located at the corners, initiating a connection. Following magnetic alignment, the external mechanical interlocking elements grip the panel corners from the outside, providing mechanical fixation and increasing structural stability.The magnetic elements used in the system are fully embedded, and a double-stage protection system prevents them from coming into contact with the external environment. Velcro-like attachment points on the textile surfaces provide additional fastening, contributing to a multi-layered connection architecture. This invention combines magnetic connection, mechanical locking, and textile fastening methods to create a highly durable, safe, tool-free, lightweight, and modular children's play structure system. The system can be reconfigured in various geometric combinations and used in different scenarios such as children's play areas, playhouses, indoor play areas, and more.

Description

1 TARIFF MODULAR CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND WITH MECHANICAL LOCKING AND ALIGNMENT ELEMENTS. SYSTEM Technical Area 5 The invention creates a safe, portable, and reconfigurable solution for children to use indoors and outdoors. and mechanical systems that allow the creation of play areas in different geometric forms. Modular mechanics that combine locking, alignment and textile fastening features. It relates to a children's play structure system with interlocking and alignment elements. 10 The Invention's Infrastructure Modular games that contribute to children's physical, mental and social development. These systems have been used for many years in both educational and individual applications. 15 It is widely used. Children's play equipment, especially suitable for indoor use. tents, interlocking construction toys, magnetic panel systems, pipes and fittings Reconfigurable children's play areas with element-based modular installation systems. These areas are widely preferred today. These types of systems are generally... Developing children's imaginations, enabling them to create different geometric structures 20 to provide, support motor skills and create safe play areas It is used for this purpose. A significant portion of the existing systems in the current state of the art are only It operates on the principle of magnetic connection. In these systems, panels or structures The elements are held together only by means of magnetic attraction. 25 However, in current solutions that use only magnetic coupling, the coupling stability is compromised. the low rigidity of large-volume structures, insufficient rigidity to protect children In case of sudden loads or impacts due to usage, the panels may separate from each other. It is observed that they can be separated. Especially the irregular behaviors that children exhibit during play. Separation, slippage, and alignment problems at connection points due to forces 30 This is occurring and negatively affecting the structural integrity. 2 In addition, in modular systems that operate solely on the principle of mechanical interlocking, fasteners that require high tightness and where installation procedures are difficult it presents difficulties in use for children and the system can be quickly disassembled It is known that reconstruction is becoming more difficult. Furthermore, the existing mechanical connections... Additional hand tools may be required during installation in structures, this situation affects product 5. This reduces the advantages of portability and user-friendliness. The significant aspects of existing magnetic panel systems in the known state of the art. One of the problems is magnetic safety, especially for use by children. In products, magnets may detach from the structure due to impact, falling, or breakage. Its ability to be removed poses serious security risks. A single-layer protective structure of 10 In existing products, the magnet housings can deform over time, Cracking can occur in plastic areas and magnets can come into contact with the external environment. It has been observed that this is possible. This situation poses a health risk, especially for young children. and poses significant security risks. Most textile surfaces used in current systems are of a fixed structure, 15 It is known that it is not replaceable and is inadequate in terms of hygiene. Textile surfaces become particularly difficult to clean after prolonged use. The inability to wash or remove the components from the system is a problem for the user. This constitutes a significant disadvantage. In addition, the large size of existing products... In this section, the textile surface is used for visual purposes only and does not provide structural stability. It is not integrated into the system in a way that would contribute to it. Another important issue encountered in systems at the known state of the art. The problem is panel alignment, especially with direction-dependent magnet placement. products that allow users to bring panels together in specific directions It is necessary; in case of misalignment, the connection is not established or the panels do not meet each other. 25 This reduces ease of use and also makes it difficult for children to use. This makes it difficult for them to establish a structure independently. In a significant number of current systems, fasteners consist of only a single fixation. It is created using this method. Just a magnet, just a snap-in. In these structures, where the mechanism or only textile connection is used, the connection is 30 Its safety is limited, and loosening, separation, or other problems may occur with prolonged use. 3 Deformation problems arise, especially in areas with large geometric volumes. existing systems cannot provide sufficient stability in the construction of structures It is seen. The modular building elements are not light enough, limiting their portability. It is also important to note that the storage and installation processes can be challenging for the user. 5 This is among the disadvantages, especially for products intended for children's use. The inability to strike a balance between lightness and durability is a significant technical problem. It constitutes. This invention aims to overcome all the technical problems described above. has been developed. Within the scope of the invention; alignment system (preferably magnetic elements 10 (created using), external mechanical locking system and textile fastening structure By using them together, a multi-layered connectivity architecture is created. The alignment system can preferably be created using magnetic elements. This significantly reduces the connectivity weaknesses seen in existing systems, Panel stability is increased and large-volume structures can be safely constructed. 15 This enables its creation. Thanks to the direction-independent alignment structure used in the invention, the panel elements are aligned with the user's perspective. They can be brought closer together automatically without any directional restrictions. Alignment is being performed. This alignment structure is preferably magnetic. This can be achieved by using various elements. This is especially true for child users 20 In terms of ease of installation and intuitive system usage. It increases. Thanks to the improved panel structure and connection system, the system not only not limited to specific angles, but features a combination geometry with different angles. It is structured in a way that allows users to create different geometric shapes. It is possible to create reconfigurable play areas in the forms. 25 Thanks to the external mechanical locking system developed within the scope of the invention, the panel elements not only with the alignment system but also with the external gripping principle They are also mechanically secured. Profiles, channels, pipes, or other components that interlock with each other. This mechanical structure works by understanding similar geometries, thus providing a connection. Its durability is significantly increased. Thus, the 30% that occurs in child use is reduced. System stability is maintained against sudden load changes. 4 The invention also includes dual-stage protection to enhance the safety of the magnetic element. The structure is used. The magnetic element is completely embedded within the structure. It is positioned and surrounded by a protective structure. Thus, it is protected against impact and fracture. or in cases of deformation, the magnetic element may come out significantly. is being blocked. 5 Another aim of the invention is to create a lightweight, portable, reusable product that can be assembled without tools. The goal is to provide a configurable and user-friendly modular game architecture system. within the scope of injection molded plastics, composites, metals or similar materials Lightweight but durable, using manufactured corner pieces and carrier profile elements. A load-bearing structure is obtained. Depending on the surface materials used, the weld is 10. connection areas joined by adhesive or mechanical fastening methods This ensures a long lifespan for the system. Additionally, the invention utilizes a replaceable and washable textile surface structure. This provides a hygiene advantage and ensures long-term performance of the product. is being increased. 15 The structural and characteristic features and all the advantages of the invention are given in the figures below. And thanks to the detailed explanation written with references to these figures, it becomes clearer. This will be understood as such, and therefore the evaluation will be based on these forms and details. This should be done taking the explanation into consideration. Figures that Aid in Explaining the Invention The invention will be described by referring to the attached figures, so that the features of the invention can be explained. This will be understood more clearly. However, the purpose of this is to explain the invention with these specific arrangements. It is not to limit. On the contrary, the invention is defined by the accompanying claims. 25 including all alternatives, modifications and equivalencies that can be included within the field That is also intended. The details shown are only the preferred aspect of the present invention. shown for the purpose of explaining the arrangements and both the methods the most useful shaping of both the rules and conceptual features of the invention It should be understood that they are presented to provide a readily understandable definition. These 30 in the drawings; Figure 1: Modular mechanical interlocking and alignment element children's play structure system. appearance of a playhouse Figure 2: Modular mechanical interlocking and alignment element children's play structure system. View of the playing field form 5 Figure 3: Square of a modular mechanical interlocking and alignment element children's play structure system. View of the geometrically shaped panel element structure. Figure 4: Modular mechanical interlocking and alignment element children's play structure system. Appearance of a mechanical locking element Detailed Description of the Invention This detailed description describes the invention as a modular mechanical interlocking and alignment element system. This is related to children's playground construction systems and is intended solely for better understanding of the subject. It is explained as such and without creating any limiting effect. 15 The invention in question; • forming the main load-bearing surface of the modular structural geometry, the playground shaping, realizing panel connections, and the system's square form Recreated in different geometric forms such as rectangles, triangles, and polygons. panel element that allows configuration • Connecting the load-bearing profile elements to each other at the panel corner areas by providing structural integrity, impact resistant connection. forming the points and contributing to the preservation of the panel geometry corner pieces providing, 25 • by forming the supporting skeleton structure in the panel edge regions connecting the elements to each other, enabling the structure to gain mechanical strength. and the modular system should be lightweight, portable and reassembled. load-bearing profile elements that provide • High strength of 30 panel corner pieces and carrier profile elements. fixation, preventing loosening and separation at the joints a resource that enables the reduction of structural integrity and the increase of structural resilience, Joints with adhesive or mechanical fastening methods, 6 • Decorative appearance that enhances child safety by covering panel surfaces. providing comfort within the structure, and being removable and reattachable. Thanks to its properties, the textile surface provides the possibility of hygienic use. • By securing textile surfaces to the panel corner areas, it prevents slipping and Easy to assemble and disassemble thanks to its detachable and reassemblable structure, which reduces the risk of separation. 5 A source, adhesive, or mechanical fastener that enables installation and use. Corner connection areas with Velcro fastening, secured using this method. • External clamping in addition to magnetic connection at panel joints By creating mechanical fastening based on this principle, it increases structural stability and prevents sudden changes. Reduces panel separation during loading and increases connection strength by 10 mechanical locking element that provides reinforcement, • by creating magnetic attraction forces at the panel junctions enabling automatic alignment and acting as an alignment element within the system. those performing the task, bringing them together quickly and initiating the connection The magnetic element that enables its creation consists of parts. 15 The invention involves the alignment of panel elements with each other, mechanical interlocking, and textile fastening. It operates on the principle of being assembled using fastening methods. The system essentially consists of panels that can be produced in different sizes. The subject panels consist of 20 injection-molded corner pieces and load-bearing profile elements. It has a load-bearing frame structure formed by joining the components. Load-bearing profile The elements are connected to the corner pieces using an interlocking mechanism, then the connection areas made permanent by welding, gluing or mechanical fastening methods This results in a lightweight yet durable panel body. 100% polyester felt textile is used on the panel surfaces. Textile surface panel. Secured to the frame, it provides a soft and safe environment in areas where children come into contact. It provides usage. Welding, gluing or in corner areas of textile surfaces These structures are secured with Velcro fasteners using mechanical fastening methods. both securing the textile surface to the panel and providing additional stability within the system. 30 It enables its creation. 7 When panels are brought close together during the panel joining process, in the corner areas... Magnetic elements positioned at the corner pieces come into play. There may be one or more magnetic elements. The magnetic elements are oriented in a specific direction. Because they are designed to operate independently, users do not have a specific orientation requirement. It is possible to bring the panels closer together without any additional steps. The panels are 5 inches apart. thanks to the attractive force created by the magnetic elements when brought close Automatic alignment occurs and the connection is initiated. The magnetic elements used in the system are located entirely within an embedded structure. It has a double-stage protection structure in the magnetic element regions. 10 This ensures a minimum coating thickness of 0.8 mm. Thus, it provides resistance to impact, breakage, or... In cases of deformation, the magnetic element comes into contact with the external environment and leaves the structure. Its exit is prevented. After the alignment process is complete, an external mechanical lock 15 is installed at the panel joints. The element is installed. This mechanical locking element consists of profiles that interlock with each other. It will create a mechanical lock by wrapping around channels, pipes, or similar geometries from the outside. It works in this way. The mechanical locking element wraps around the corner areas of the two panels. It creates mechanical fixation and increases the strength of the connection. Thus, the child Panel separations are reduced during sudden loads due to usage, and the structure is 20 Its stability is maintained. The mechanical locking system operates on a tool-free principle. The user locks the mechanical lock. Quick connection by inserting the element into the panel joint area. It can generate 25. The system also has versions without magnetic elements. It can be used, and in this case, the mechanical lock directly serves as the main link. It undertakes this. The mechanical lock structure will be easy for the user to implement. It is designed with a controlled tightness feature for child safety. It is structured in such a way that it will be. 8 The invention encompasses an alignment system, a mechanical lock, and a textile fastening system. It operates using magnetic elements. This can be achieved by creating a multi-layered connection architecture. Its stability is significantly increased. Users can customize the panel elements in different ways. by combining them in geometric combinations, a children's playground, playhouse, indoor 5 It can create various structures such as game compartments and similar features. The system has a modular structure. Therefore, it can be disassembled and reassembled, and adapted to different usage scenarios. It can be reconfigured. The system can accommodate 10 different panel joints thanks to the connection structure used in the panel connection areas. It works in a way that can create a geometry of connection at angles. Thus, the panels not limited to linear or right-angled connections but multi-angled geometric shapes It can also be used in buildings. Each request mentions technical specifications followed by a reference number, 15 These reference numbers are used solely to facilitate understanding of the requests. Therefore, these are indicated with these reference numbers for illustrative purposes only. It should not be thought that any of the elements limit its scope. A technically skilled person can demonstrate the novelty presented in the invention, and similar structures can be developed in 20 years. by using and / or demonstrating this structure in the relevant technique It is clear that this can be applied to other fields with similar purposes. Therefore, such a the criteria for structures are innovation and especially exceeding the known state of the art. It is also obvious that he will be deprived of it. 30

Claims

9 REQUESTS 1. The invention relates to a modular mechanical interlocking and alignment element children's play structure system for 5 related to; its characteristic is; • forming the main load-bearing surface of the modular structural geometry, the playground shaping, realizing panel connections and different geometric shapes panel element that allows for restructuring in forms, • Connecting the load-bearing profile elements to each other in the panel corner areas 10 by providing structural integrity, impact resistant connection. forming the points and contributing to the preservation of the panel geometry corner pieces that provide, • by forming the supporting skeleton structure in the panel edge regions the connection of its elements to each other, enabling the structure to gain mechanical strength 15 and the modular system should be lightweight, portable and reassembled. load-bearing profile elements that provide • Decorative appearance that enhances child safety by covering panel surfaces. providing comfort within the structure, and being removable and reattachable. Thanks to its feature, the textile surface provides the possibility of hygienic use, 20 • By securing textile surfaces to the panel corner areas, it prevents slipping and Easy to assemble and disassemble thanks to its detachable and reassemblable structure, which reduces the risk of separation. A source, adhesive, or mechanical fastener that enables installation and use. Corner connection areas with Velcro fasteners secured using various methods, • Mechanical fastening with external gripping principle at panel joint areas 25 by creating a panel that increases structural stability during sudden loads. mechanical systems that reduce separation and strengthen connection strength Its key feature is that it includes its components.

2. Modular mechanical interlocking and alignment element children's play structure 30 according to claim 1. It is related to the system and its characteristic is that it is located in the connection areas of the panel elements. by gripping the corner pieces from the outside, profile, channel, pipe or similar Mechanical locking element that creates mechanical fastening between geometries. It includes. 35 3. Modular mechanical children's playpen with locking and alignment elements according to claims 1 and 2. It relates to the structural system and its characteristic feature is that it is externally attached to the panel joint areas. It includes a mechanical locking element that is both adaptable and removable.

4. Modular mechanical interlocking and alignment element children's play structure according to claim 1. 5 It relates to the system and its characteristic feature is that the panel elements are linear, angular or multi-angular. a combination structure that allows them to be assembled in various configurations It includes. 15 25