Building block system and fasteners therefor

Abstract

A fastener can include a first fastener body including a first portion configured to be received within a structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the fastener, the fastener being a first fastener, a spacedefined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a second fastener, the plurality of teeth of the first fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the second fastener; and one of a second fastener body and a connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener.

Description

Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 BUILDING BLOCK SYSTEM AND FASTENERS THEREFOR REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.63 / 614,085, filed December 22, 2023, titled “BUILDING BLOCK SYSTEM AND FASTENERS THEREFOR,” which is hereby specifically incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD Field of Use

[0002] This disclosure relates to building blocks and fasteners for joining building blocks. More specifically, this disclosure relates to toy building blocks and fasteners for use by children and others for pleasure and the development of spatial skills. Related Art

[0003] Both children and adults can find joy in using and developing their minds and bodies to imagine and create and, more specifically, to build structures from simple elements such as building blocks. The human mind is capable of seemingly innumerable ways to create. Typical building blocks can, however, only be stacked when supported by a structure positioned directly underneath and are thus severely limited in the structures that they can form. Moreover, certain individuals, including young and / or neurodivergent children or even adults, can find typical building blocks to be too simple or too difficult for their taste and / or abilities. SUMMARY

[0004] It is to be understood that this summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. This summary is exemplary and not restrictive and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor delineate the scope thereof. The sole purpose of this summary is to explain and exemplify certain concepts of the disclosure as an introduction to the following complete and extensive detailed description.

[0005] In one aspect, disclosed is a fastener comprising: a first fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within a structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the fastener, the fastener being a first fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality ofAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 teeth of the first fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a second fastener, the plurality of teeth of the first fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the second fastener; and one of a second fastener body and a connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener.

[0006] In a further aspect, disclosed is a system comprising: a first assembly comprising: a first structural member; and a first fastener comprising: a first fastener body securably assembled to the first structural member, the first fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within the first structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the first fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a second fastener, the plurality of teeth of the first fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the second fastener; and a second fastener body configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener; and a second assembly comprising: a second structural member; and a third fastener comprising: a third fastener body securably assembled to the second structural member, the third fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within the second structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the third fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the third fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a fourth fastener, the plurality of teeth of the third fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the fourth fastener; and a fourth fastener body configured to maintain a position of the fourth fastener with respect to the third fastener.

[0007] In yet another aspect, disclosed is a method of assembly comprising: assembling a first fastener to a first side of a structural member, the first side lying in a first plane, the first fastener comprising: a first fastener body securably assembled to the first side of the structural member, the first fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within the structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the first fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a second fastener, the plurality of teeth of the first fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the second fastener; and a second fastener body configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respectAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 to the first fastener; and assembling a third fastener to a second side of the structural member, the second side lying in a second plane angled with respect to the first plane, the third fastener comprising: a third fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within or about the second side of the structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the third fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the third fastener sized to receive any one of the plurality of teeth of a fourth fastener, the plurality of teeth of the fourth fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the third fastener; and a fourth fastener body configured to maintain a position of the fourth fastener with respect to the third fastener.

[0008] Various implementations described in the present disclosure may comprise additional systems, methods, features, and advantages, which may not necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within the present disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims. The features and advantages of such implementations may be realized and obtained by means of the systems, methods, features particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations as set forth hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the disclosure and, together with the description, explain various principles of the disclosure. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Corresponding features and components throughout the figures may be designated by matching reference characters for the sake of consistency and clarity.

[0010] Figure 1A is a top perspective view of a building block in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure.

[0011] Figure 1B is a side view of the building block of Figure 1A.

[0012] Figure 1C is a sectional perspective view of the building block of Figure 1A taken along line 1C-1C of Figure 1A.

[0013] Figure 1D is a detail sectional view of one half of the building block of Figure 1A.Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010

[0014] Figure 2A is a top perspective view of a structural member of the building block of Figure 1A.

[0015] Figure 2B is a top view of the structural member of Figure 2A.

[0016] Figure 3A is a top perspective view of a pair of fasteners of the building block of Figure 1A in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure.

[0017] Figure 3B is an exploded top perspective view of the pair of fasteners of Figure 3A and a spacer positioned therebetween, each of the fasteners of the pair of fasteners comprising a first fastener body and a second fastener body.

[0018] Figure 4A is a top perspective view of the first fastener body of the first fastener of Figure 3B.

[0019] Figure 4B is a bottom perspective view of the first fastener body of Figure 4A.

[0020] Figure 4C is a top view of the first fastener body of Figure 4A.

[0021] Figure 4D is a sectional view of the first fastener body of Figure 4A taken along line 4D- 4D of Figure 4C.

[0022] Figure 4E is a bottom view of the first fastener body of Figure 4A.

[0023] Figure 5A is a top perspective view of a first fastener body of the second fastener of Figure 3B.

[0024] Figure 5B is a bottom perspective view of the first fastener body of Figure 5A.

[0025] Figure 5C is a top view of the first fastener body of Figure 5A.

[0026] Figure 6A is a top perspective view of the second fastener body of each of the pair of fasteners of Figure 3B.

[0027] Figure 6B is a top perspective view of the second fastener body of Figure 6A when axially magnetized.

[0028] Figure 6C is a top perspective view of the second fastener body of Figure 6A when diametrically magnetized.

[0029] Figure 7 is a top perspective view of the spacer of Figure 3B.

[0030] Figure 8 is an exploded top perspective view of a third fastener of the building block of Figure 1A.

[0031] Figure 9A is a top perspective view of a first fastener body of the third fastener of Figure 8.

[0032] Figure 9B is a top view of the first fastener body of Figure 9A.

[0033] Figure 9C is a bottom view of a first fastener body of Figure 9A.

[0034] Figure 10A is a top perspective view of a first fastener body of a fourth fastener of the building block of Figure 1A.Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010

[0035] Figure 10B is a top view of the first fastener body of Figure 10A.

[0036] Figure 10C is a bottom perspective view of the first fastener body of Figure 10A.

[0037] Figure 10D is a sectional view of the first fastener body of Figure 10A taken along line 10D-10D of Figure 10B.

[0038] Figure 11A is a top perspective view of a building block in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0039] Figure 11B is a top perspective view of a fastener body of a fastener of the building block of Figure 11A.

[0040] Figure 11C is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body of Figure 11B.

[0041] Figure 11D is a perspective view of a connecting fastener configured to join the building block of Figure 11A to a second building block of similar construction in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure.

[0042] Figure 12A is a top perspective view of a building block in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0043] Figure 12B is a top perspective view of a structural member of the building block of Figure 12A.

[0044] Figure 12C is a top perspective view of a fastener body of the building block of Figure 12A.

[0045] Figure 12D is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body of Figure 12C.

[0046] Figure 13A is a top perspective view of a building block in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0047] Figure 13B is a top perspective view of a fastener body of a first fastener of the building block of Figure 13A.

[0048] Figure 13C is a top perspective view of a fastener body of a second fastener of the building block of Figure 13A and a connecting fastener configured to join the building block of Figure 13A to a second building block in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure.

[0049] Figure 14A is a top perspective view of a building block in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0050] Figure 14B is a top perspective view of a first fastener of the building block of Figure 14A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0051] Figure 14C is a sectional top perspective view of the first fastener of Figure 14B.

[0052] Figure 14D is a top perspective view of the first fastener of Figure 14B in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010

[0053] Figure 14E is a top perspective view of a second fastener of the building block of Figure 14A.

[0054] Figure 14F is a top perspective view of a third fastener of the building block of Figure 14A.

[0055] Figure 15A is a top perspective view of a fastener body of a fastener of the building block of Figure 14A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0056] Figure 15B is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body of Figure 15A.

[0057] Figure 16A is a top perspective view of a fastener body in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0058] Figure 16B is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body of Figure 16A.

[0059] Figure 17A is a top perspective view of a fastener in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0060] Figure 17B is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body of Figure 17A.

[0061] Figure 18A is a top perspective view of a building block in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0062] Figure 18B is a bottom perspective view of the building block of Figure 18A.

[0063] Figure 19 is a top perspective view of a building block in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0064] Figure 20A is a side view of an assembly comprising the building block of Figure 1A shown assembled in side-to-side facing arrangement to a second building block of similar construction in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure.

[0065] Figure 20B is a top perspective view of an assembly comprising the two building blocks of Figure 20A and showing the second building block assembled in end-to-side arrangement to the first building block in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0066] Figure 20C is a top perspective view of an assembly comprising three building blocks with connections similar to those shown in Figures 20A and 20B in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0067] Figure 20D is a top perspective view of a “Ferris wheel” assembly comprising a plurality of building blocks of various sizes with connections similar to those shown in Figures 20A and 20B in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0068] Figure 21A is a top perspective view of an assembly of, together with the connecting fastener 1100, two instances of the building block of Figure 14A in a side-to-side facing arrangement in a locked position, a side face of a second building block mating with a side face of a first building block of the two instances of the building block.Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010

[0069] Figure 21B is a diagonal side view of the assembly of Figure 21A.

[0070] Figure 21C is a side view of the assembly of Figure 21A.

[0071] Figure 21D is a top view of the assembly of Figure 21A.

[0072] Figure 21E is a sectional perspective view of the assembly of Figure 19A taken along line 19E-19E of Figure 19D.

[0073] Figure 22A is a top side perspective view of an assembly of two instances of the building block of Figure 14B in an angled T-shaped or end-to-side arrangement, a side face of the second building block mating with an end face of the first building block of the two instances of the building block in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0074] Figure 22B is a side view of the assembly of Figure 22A.

[0075] Figure 22C is a side end perspective view of the assembly of Figure 22A.

[0076] Figure 22D is a sectional perspective view of the assembly of Figure 22A taken along line 22D-22D of Figure 22A.

[0077] Figure 23 is a top perspective view of an assembly comprising a plurality of building blocks with connections similar to those shown in Figures 21A and 22A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure.

[0078] Figure 24 is a top perspective view of an assembly comprising two instances of the building blocks of Figure 18A and with one of the two building blocks being loaded with a force while the other of the two building blocks is held stationary. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0079] The present disclosure can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, and their previous and following description. However, before the present devices, systems, and / or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and / or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0080] The following description is provided as an enabling teaching of the present devices, systems, and / or methods in their best, currently known aspect. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects described herein while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present disclosure. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present disclosure can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present disclosureAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present disclosure are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present disclosure. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present disclosure and not in limitation thereof.

[0081] As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a quantity of one of a particular element can comprise two or more such elements unless the context indicates otherwise. In addition, any of the elements described herein can be a first such element, a second such element, and so forth (e.g., a first widget and a second widget, even if only a “widget” is referenced).

[0082] Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect comprises from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about” or “substantially,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint.

[0083] For purposes of the current disclosure, a material property or dimension measuring about X or substantially X on a particular measurement scale measures within a range between X plus an industry-standard upper tolerance for the specified measurement and X minus an industry-standard lower tolerance for the specified measurement. Because tolerances can vary between different materials, processes, and between different models, the tolerance for a particular measurement of a particular component can fall within a range of tolerances.

[0084] As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description comprises instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

[0085] The word “or” as used herein means any one member of a particular list and also comprises any combination of members of that list. The phrase “at least one of A and B” as used herein means “only A, only B, or both A and B”; while the phrase “one of A and B” means “A or B.”

[0086] As used herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the term “monolithic” in the description of a component means that the component is formed as a singular componentAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 that constitutes a single material without joints or seams. Unless otherwise specified herein, any structure disclosed in the drawings or in the written description—including any assembly of several components that can be formed together—can be monolithic whether or not such an explicit description of the structure is included herein.

[0087] To simplify the description of various elements disclosed herein, the conventions of “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower,” “inside,” “outside,” “inboard,” “outboard,” “horizontal,” and / or “vertical” may be referenced. Unless stated otherwise, “front” describes that end of the building block or fastener nearest to a user or builder; “rear” is that end of the building block or fastener that is opposite or distal the front; “left” is that which is to the left of or facing left from the user facing towards the front; and “right” is that which is to the right of or facing right from the user while facing towards the front. “Horizontal” or “horizontal orientation” describes that which is in a plane extending from left to right and aligned with the horizon. “Vertical” or “vertical orientation” describes that which is in a plane that is angled at 90 degrees to the horizontal.

[0088] The building block or a fastener thereof can also be described using a coordinate axis of X-Y-Z directions shown in Figure 1A. An X-axis direction can be referred to as a left-right or horizontal direction. An upper-lower direction is a Z-axis direction, which is orthogonal to the X-axis direction and to a Y-axis direction. The Y-axis direction can be referred to as a front- rear direction. A surface of a structural element that is parallel with the front-rear direction can be referred to as a lateral side.

[0089] In one aspect, a building block or block and associated methods, systems, devices, and various apparatuses are disclosed herein. In one aspect, the building block can comprise a fastener, which can comprise a plurality of protrusions for engagement with the fastener of another building block.

[0090] The disclosed methods, systems, devices, and various apparatuses can facilitate the building of various structures, patterns, and models as well as promote the creative exploration of the principles of physics, magnetism, gravity and geometry. They can help users develop skills in 3D spatial visualization, problem solving and a basis for understanding structures and construction.

[0091] Users can learn to build, assemble, and construct using building blocks that can lock themselves in place and can bear significant weight. The configuration of the building blocks and the ease with which the user can iterate through various configurations and methods of connecting the blocks can heighten creativity. Other building toys can be uninteresting to certain individuals, including young and / or neurodivergent children, due to a heightenedAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 assembly complexity which can often require detailed instructions to build a certain figure or structure. Contrasting with other building toys, these building blocks can be easier to assemble. An easier assembly process can transform the user’s building process from a more rigid, directed assembly process into a more creatively explorative process, which can permit the user to quickly iterate through different design ideas to learn and practice different fundamental design concepts. In addition, the building blocks can be connected to one another using all three axis or dimensions. The structure can comprise wood or can be comprised primarily of wood and therefore can have a more natural appeal and can be more eco-friendly than most toys, which are generally constructed of plastic. Other building toys can also be very limited in their fastening and assembly modes, arrangements, and orientations. Common in traditional systems using building blocks, especially those that do not lockably engage each other, is a layering approach to building an overall model. Such traditional systems usually cannot support cantilevered members, arches, angled columns or legs, or suspended beams. Much less can such traditional building block systems be used to build objects that are self-supporting; rather such systems typically rely on the surrounding environment to maintain their shape. Neither can traditional building block systems provide the flexibility and the degrees of freedom as the methods, systems, devices, and various apparatuses disclosed herein.

[0092] Figures 1A–10D are various views of the building block 100 in accordance with at least one aspect of the current disclosure in which two or more self-contained building blocks 100 can be configured to be joined to each other without any separate fasteners. Figure 1A is a top perspective view of a building block 100 in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure. The building block 100 can be a magnetic block or toy block. The building block 100 can comprise a structural member 200. The building block 100 and the structural member 200 can define respective longitudinal axes 101,201 and one or more transverse or lateral axes 103,203,107,207. The structural member 200 and, more specifically, a body 210 thereof—including, even where not explicitly indicated, with respect to other features of the structural member 200—can define a first longitudinal end or first end 215 and a second longitudinal end or second end 216 (215 shown in Figure 2B). The structural member 200 can define major lateral ends or sides or just ends or sides 213,214 (214 shown in Figure 1B). The structural member 200 can define minor lateral ends or sides or just ends or sides 217,218 (218 shown in Figure 1B). The structural member 200 can define end faces or end surfaces 225,226 (225 shown in Figure 1C) at or in the respective ends 215,216. The structural member 200 can define lateral or side faces 223,224,227,228 (224 shown inAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 Figure 1B and 228 shown in Figure 2B) at or in the respective ends or sides 213,214,217,218. Similarly, the building block can define longitudinal ends or ends 115,116 (115 shown in Figure 1C) defining end faces or end surfaces 125,126 (125 shown in Figure 1C) and major lateral ends or sides or just ends or sides 113,114,117,118 (114 and 118 shown in Figure 1B) defining lateral or side faces 123,124,127,128 (124 and 128 shown in Figure 1B).

[0093] The building block 100 can comprise—and the structural member 200 can receive, within or without at least a portion thereof—one or more lateral fastener assemblies or fastener assemblies or just fasteners 300. In some aspects, as shown, each of the one or more fastener assemblies 300 can be received within a cavity 238 defined in the side 213 or received within the cavity 238 or a cavity 248 (248 shown in Figure 1D) defined in the respective sides 213,214 of the structural member 200. In some aspects, each of the one or more fastener assemblies 300 can be otherwise secured or fixed to or about the side 213 or to the sides 213,214 or, more specifically, at least one of the side faces 223,224,227,228 of the structural member 200. In some aspects, the one or more fastener assemblies 300 can comprise fasteners assemblies 300a,b, which can differ from each other in at least one aspect such as, for example, the orientation of teeth 450 defined therein. In some aspects, the fastener assemblies 300 or any portion thereof can be press fit or interference fit into the cavity 238 or the cavity 248. In some aspects, the fastener assemblies 300 or any portion thereof can be otherwise secured inside the cavity 238 or the cavity 248 such as with, for example and without limitation, a snap feature on the fastener assembly 300 or the structure member 200 or an adhesive between the fastener assemblies 300 and the structural member 200.

[0094] The building block 100 can comprise—and the structural member 200 can receive, within or without at least a portion thereof—one or more end fastener assemblies or fastener assemblies or vertical assemblies or just fasteners 800, each of which can be alternatively considered one of the fastener assemblies 300. In some aspects, the one or more fastener assemblies 800 can be secured or fixed to or about the end 215 or to the ends 215,216 of the structural member 200. In some aspects, the one or more fastener assemblies 800 can comprise fasteners assemblies 800a,b, which can differ from each other in at least one aspect such as, for example, the orientation of the teeth 450 defined therein.

[0095] In some aspects, as shown, the building block 100 can be a rectangular prism or substantially so (meaning to have the indicated shape except for chamfers and radii at edges and ignoring other localized features). More specifically, the building block can have aAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 rectangular shape in cross-section in one or more orientations. In some aspects, the building block 100 can have a non-rectangular shape in cross-section or can be substantially so shaped. In some aspects, the building block 100 and, more specifically, the structural member 200 thereof can define a triangular (or other polygonal) shape. More specifically, a fastener 300 can be positioned on or in the sides 213,214 and proximate to one or more intersections of sides of the triangular (or other polygonal) shape of the structural member 200, and a fastener 800 can be positioned on one or more of the ends of the structural member 200 at the same intersections. In some aspects, as shown, lengths L101,L201 (L101 shown in Figure 1B and L201 shown in Figure 2B) of the building block 100 and the structural member 200 thereof along the axes 101,201 can be greater than respective lengths L103,L203 (L103 shown in Figure 20C and L203 shown in Figure 2B) of the building block 100 and the structural member 200 along the axes 103,203 or respective lengths L107,L207 (L107 shown in Figure 20C and L207 shown in Figure 2A) of the building block 100 and the structural member 200 along the axes 107,207. In some aspects, the lengths L101,L201 can be at least three times the respective lengths L103,L203. In some aspects, the lengths L103,L203 can be at least two times the respective lengths L107,L207. In some aspects, the lengths L101,L201 can be at least five times, six times, or seven times the respective lengths L107,L207. In some aspects, the ratios of the various lengths can be outside of these ranges. In some aspects, in order to create a greater variety of structures and / or for other reasons, one or more of the lengths L101,L201, the lengths L103,L203, and the lengths L107,L207 of two or more of a plurality of building blocks 100 can vary from one building block 100 to another building block 100 and thus the building blocks 100 can define one or more varying lengths.

[0096] Figure 1B is a side view of the building block 100 of Figure 1A. As shown, each of or any of the fastener assemblies or fasteners 300 can protrude from a portion of the structural member 200 such as, for example and without limitation, one of the side faces 223,224,227,228 (228 shown in Figure 2B) of the structural member 200 or one or more surfaces thereof. More specifically, each of or any of the fastener assemblies 300 can protrude from the side faces 223,224,227,228 by a protrusion distance 370. In some aspects, the building block 100 can be symmetric about one or more of the axes 101,103,107 or substantially so (meaning to be symmetric as indicated, ignoring localized features such as the orientation of detailed features of the fastener assemblies 300,800). More specifically, the fastener assemblies 300,800 and, more specifically, axes 301,801 of the respective fastener assemblies 300a,b and 800a,b can be equidistant from one or moreAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 of the axes 101,103,107. In some aspects, as shown, both sides 213,214 of the fastener 300 or the fastener pair 305 and, more generally, the building block 100 can be configured to lockably engage with another building block 100.

[0097] Figure 1C is a sectional perspective view of the building block 100 of Figure 1A taken along line 1C-1C of Figure 1A. As shown, each of or any of the fastener assemblies or fasteners 800 can protrude from at least one of the end faces 225,226 (225 shown in Figure 1A and 228 shown in Figure 2B) of the structural member 200 or one or more surfaces thereof. More specifically, each of or any of the fastener assemblies 800 can protrude from a portion of the structural member 200 such as, for example and without limitation, one of the end faces 225,226 by a protrusion distance 870.

[0098] Figure 1D is a detail sectional view of one half of the building block 100 of Figure 1A. As shown, each fastener assembly 300 or 300a,b can comprise a respective first fastener body or fastener body 400a,b or, more generally, a first fastener body or fastener body 400; and a respective second fastener body or fastener body 600. The fastener body 400a,b can be configured to maintain a position, in at least coordinate axes perpendicular to the respective axes 301,801 (e.g., respective coordinate axes X,Y of the plane X-Y or respective coordinate axes X,Z of the plane X-Z), of a second instance of the fastener assembly 300,800 (shown in Figure 20A) of a second instance of the building block 100 with respect to any one of the fasteners 300 of the building block 100 shown. The fastener body 600 can be configured to maintain a position, in at least a coordinate axis parallel to the axes 301,801 (e.g., respective coordinate axes Z or Y), of a second instance of the fastener assembly 300,800 of a second instance of the building block 100 with respect to any one of the fastener assembly 300 of the building block 100 shown. More specifically, the fastener body 600a,b can produce a magnetic field and attract with a magnetic force and, more specifically, can comprise or be a magnet. Each fastener assembly 300 or 300a,b or pair of fastener assemblies 300a,b can comprise a spacer 700. Any two or more of the fastener assemblies 300 or 300a,b, the fastener body 400a,b, the fastener body 600, and the spacer 700 can be aligned along the corresponding axis 301. Similarly, any two or more of the fastener assemblies 800 or 800a,b, fastener bodies 900a,b (900a shown in Figure 9A and 900b shown in Figure 8), and the fastener body 600 can be aligned along the corresponding axis 801.

[0099] Figure 2A is a top perspective view and Figure 2B is a top view of the structural member 200 of the building block 100 of Figure 1A. The structural member 200 and, more specifically, the body 210 can define the sides 213,214 (214 shown in Figure 1B), the endsAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 215,216, the sides 217,218 (218 shown in Figure 2B), and the respective faces 223,224,225,226,227,228 (224 shown in Figure 1B, 226 shown in Figure 1A, and 228 shown in Figure 1B). The cavity 238 or the pair of cavities 238,248 can extend through an entire thickness of the structural member 200 or, as shown, across the entire length L207. In some aspects, as shown, one or more of the cavities 238,248 of the structural member 200 can define a hexagonal shape. In some aspects, the one or more of the cavities 238,248 of the structural member 200 need not define a hexagonal shape. For example and without limitation, the one or more of the cavities 238,248 of the structural member 200 can more generally define any polygonal shape or can define a non-polygonal shape such as, for example and without limitation, a circular shape, a stadium shape, a stadium shape or substantially such a shape (meaning to have the indicated shape except for chamfers and radii at edges and ignoring other localized features such as, for example and without limitation, a feature configured to lock or maintain a rotational position of the fastener assembly 300 or pair of fastener assemblies 300a,b inside the cavity 238 or the pair of cavities 238,248). Where configured to be locked in a particular rotational position or in one or more of a plurality of rotational positions, the shape or feature can be an anti-rotation shape or feature.

[0100] As shown in Figure 1A, a shape, at least in cross-section but also in other aspects (e.g., a thickness of one or more portions thereof), of the fastener assembly 300 can match or substantially match a shape of the cavity 238 or the pair of cavities 238,248 (“substantially” meaning here to have the indicated shape except for chamfers and radii at edges and ignoring other localized features). More specifically, a size, at least in cross-section, of the fastener assembly 300 can match a size of the cavity 238 or the pair of cavities 238,248. As shown, a height or thickness of the structural member 200 such as the length L207 can be sufficiently large to receive both fastener assemblies 300a,b (shown in Figure 1C). More specifically, the fastener assemblies 300a,b can intersect at a middle boundary or boundary 258 of the structural member 200.

[0101] In some aspects, as shown, the fastener assemblies 300 and / or the fastener assemblies 800 can be formed separately—using the same or completely different materials—from the structural member 200. In some aspects, as shown, the fastener assemblies 300 and / or the fastener assemblies 800 can be formed integrally or monolithically with the structural member 200. For example and without limitation, an upper half of at least a portion of the building block 100 shown in any one of Figures 1A–1D such as, for example and without limitation, the structural member 200 and at least portions of the fastener assemblies 300Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 and / or the fastener assemblies 800 (e.g., the fastener bodies 400a,b and / or the fastener bodies 900a,b) can be formed as one monolithic whole, and a lower half of the building block 100 shown in Figure 1A could be formed as one monolithic whole. The upper and lower halves—or other separately formed portions, e.g., monolithic portions, of the building block 100—can be assembled with one or more of the second fastener body 600 and any other components to form the building block 100.

[0102] A quantity of the cavities 238 or the pairs of cavities 238,248 in each structural member 200 can be based on the length L201 (shown in Figure 2B) of the structural member 200 and, more generally, a length L101 (shown in Figure 1B) of the building block 100. A smaller size or a smallest size of the structural member 200 can define one cavity 238 or a pair of cavities 238,248, as shown, and as the length L201 of the structural member 200 and, more generally, the building block 100 increases, the quantity of the cavities 238 or the pair of cavities 238,248 can be increased proportionally. In some aspects, the structural member 200 need not define any cavities and need not comprise either the fastener 300 or the fastener 800. For example and without limitation, when twice as long as the smallest structural member 200 the structural member 200 can have or define two cavities 238 or pairs of cavities 238,248 as shown, and when three times as long as the smallest structural member 200 the structural member can have or define three cavities 238 or pairs of cavities 238,248. The cavities 238 or the pairs of cavities 238,248 can be equidistant along the length L201, which can mean that each cavity 238 or pair of cavities 238,248 is certain in one of two or three equally divided—along the direction of the length L201—and equally sized portions of the structural member 200. The structural member 200 can define any number of cavities 238 or cavities 238,248 and can be configured to receive any number of fasteners 300,800. In some aspects, the structural member 200 can be a solid material throughout except where receiving fasteners or other components such as the fasteners 300,800. In some aspects, the structural member 200 can define one or more hollow portions.

[0103] The structural member 200 can define an edge treatment 260 at any intersection between intersecting faces thereof. The edge treatment 260 can be any treatment that ease the edge such as, for example and without limitation, a radius or a chamfer. In some aspects, as shown, the edge treatment 260 between one of the end faces 215,216 and one of the sides 217,218 can be a chamfer. In some aspects, as shown, the edge treatment 260 between one of the side faces 213,214 and one of the sides 217,218 can be a radius.Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010

[0104] Figure 3A is a top perspective view of a pair of fasteners 300a,b of the building block 100 of Figure 1A in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure. The pair of fastener assemblies 300a,b can define a horizontal assembly or fastener pair 305. The fastener assemblies 300a,b can define a mating seam or assembly seam 358, at which the fastener assemblies 300a,b can be in mating contact.

[0105] Figure 3B is an exploded top perspective view of the pair of fastener assemblies 300a,b of Figure 3A and the spacer 700 positioned therebetween. Each of the fastener assemblies 300a,b of the pair of fasteners 300a,b can comprise the fastener body 400a,b and the fastener body 600. As such, in some aspects, the fastener pair 305 can comprise five separate components. As described above, two or more components of the fastener pair 305 or any portion thereof can be aligned along the axis 301, along which an axis 401 of one or more of the first fastener bodies 400a,b can also align. In the fastener assembly 300a, one instance of the fastener body 600, which again can be a magnet, can be inserted such that a north pole or second end 606 thereof is facing out toward a second end 406 or projections or protrusions or bosses or teeth 450 of the fastener assembly 300a. In the fastener assembly 300b, another instance of the fastener body 600 can be inserted such that the south pole or first end 605 is facing out toward the second end 406 or the teeth 450 of the fastener assembly 300b. In some aspects, a single fastener body 600 can be used instead of the two separate fasteners 600, one for each fastener assembly 300a,b. As the fastener assemblies 300a,b are assembled, the spacer 700 can be placed between the two fastener assemblies 300a such that first and second ends 705,706 and respective top and bottom faces or first and second end surfaces 715,716 (shown in Figure 7) of the spacer 700 touch an exposed face of each fastener body 600 when assembly is complete.

[0106] Figures 4A–4D and 5A–5C are various views of the fastener bodies 400a,b of the respective fasteners 300a,b of Figure 3B. Figure 4A is a top perspective view of the fastener body 400a of the fastener 300a, which again can be, more generally, the fastener body 400. The fastener body 400a,b can define a first end 405 and a second end 406. The fastener body 400a,b can further define the axis 401, which can extend from the first end 405 to the second end 406. The fastener body 400a,b can comprise a first portion 410 extending from the first end 405 and a second portion 420 extending from the second end 406. The fastener body 400a,b can define a bore or recess or pocket or cavity 480, into which the fastener body 600 (e.g., a magnet; shown in Figure 3A) and / or the spacer 700 (shown in Figure 3A) can be inserted. In some aspects, as shown, the cavity 480 can extend from the first end 405 to the second end 406 and thus through each of the first portion 410 and the secondAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 portion 420. As such, each fastener body 400a,b of the fastener 300 can be a shell and therefore can be hollow.

[0107] The first end 405 and the first portion 410 can be configured to be received within the structural member 200 (shown in Figure 1A). The first portion 410 can define an inner surface 431 (shown in Figure 4B), which can at least in part define the cavity 480, and an outer surface 432. The first portion 410 can define a first end surface 435 (shown in Figure 4B) and a second end surface 436, which can be a transition or shoulder between the first portion 410 and the second portion 420. The cavities 458 can define or be defined by a bottom surface 468, which can be offset in an axial direction away from the second end 436 of the first portion 410.

[0108] As described in more detail above, a shape and / or size of the fastener assembly 300a,b (300b shown in Figure 3B) and, more specifically, the fastener body 400a,b can match or substantially match a shape of the cavity 238 or the pair of cavities 238,248 defined in the structural member 200. As such, the fastener body 400a,b can define a hexagonal shape and, more generally, a polygonal shape, as shown, or a non-polygonal shape—whatever shape can engage the cavity 238 or the pair of cavities 238,248 or otherwise assemble to the structural member 200 (including without the cavity 238, as may be desired, by the fastener body 400a,b protruding entirely from the structural member 200, in which case the fastener body 400a,b could be surface-mounted to the structural member 200). More specifically, the fastener body 400a,b and a shape thereof can be configured to not rotate in the cavity 238 or the pair of cavities 238,248 in the structural member 200. More specifically, the hexagonal shape and, more generally, the polygonal or other shape, of the first portion 410 can define sides of equal dimensions, e.g., equal lengths. For manufacturability or other considerations, the outer surface 432 of the first portion 410 can comprise one or more edge treatments 433, each which can be a chamfer or radius or other easing of the edges of the shape of the first portion 410. Again, as described above, the fastener body 400a,b or at least features thereof can be formed together with the structural member 200 to form one or more monolithic parts of the building block 100.

[0109] The second end 406 and the second portion 420 can be configured to engage the fastener bodies 400,900 such as, for example and without limitation, the fastener body 400a,b or the fastener body 900a,b of a separate building block 100. More specifically, the second portion 420 can define a plurality of the teeth 450, which can extend in a direction parallel to the axis 301 of the fastener assembly 300 and an axis 401 of the fastener body 400a,b. A projection or protrusion cavity or space or just cavity 458 defined between eachAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 pair of adjacent teeth 450 of the plurality of teeth 450 of the fastener body 400a,b and, more generally, the fastener 300, can be sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth 450 defined in a second fastener 300 of the separate building block 100. The plurality of teeth 450 of the fastener body 400a,b and, more generally, the first fastener 300 can be configured to lockably engage with a plurality of teeth 450 of the second fastener 300 and, more specifically, the fastener body 400a,b thereof.

[0110] Again, each of the fastener bodies 400a,b can comprise a plurality of the teeth 450. In some aspects, each of the fastener bodies 400a,b can comprise at least 4 teeth 450. In some aspects, each of the fastener bodies 400a,b can comprise at least 8 teeth 450. In some aspects, each of the fastener bodies 400a,b can comprise between 4 and 8 teeth 450, inclusive of the endpoints of this range. In some aspects, a quantity of the teeth 450 can be an even number. In some aspects, a quantity of the teeth 450 can be wholly divisible by 4.

[0111] Figure 4B is a bottom perspective view of the first fastener body 400a of Figure 4A. As shown and described in further detail below, the cavity 480 can define more than one portion 481,482,483, and each portion 481,482,483 can define respective diameters 486,487,488, which can be smaller or larger than that of an adjacent portion 481,482,483. More specifically, the fastener body 400a,b can define a ledge or shoulder and an accompanying surface in a transition between the portion 481 and the portion 482 and between the portion 482 and the portion 483.

[0112] Figure 4C is a top view of the first fastener body 400a of Figure 4A. In some aspects, each of the teeth 450 of the fastener body 400a,b can define one or more of a radially inner surface 451, a radially outer surface 452, walls or side walls or sides 453a,b, and an axial end surface 454. In some aspects, each of the teeth 450 can define a single side 453, which can be continuous around a perimeter of the tooth 450. Each of or any of the teeth 450 can define a height 457. In some aspects, the height 457 can be at least, at most, about, or exactly 1.7 millimeters. In some aspects, a width or other parameter of any or each tooth 450 can be variable. In some aspects, a width of any or each tooth 450 can be, when measured in a direction perpendicular to a radial direction extending from the axis 401 and in the plane of the top surface 454 or when viewed from the top, at least, at most, about, or exactly 2.0 millimeters at a minimum (e.g., at the radially inner surface 451). In some aspects, a width of any or each tooth 450 can be, when similarly measured, 4.3 mm at a maximum (e.g., at the radially outer surface 452). In some aspects, a length of any or each tooth can be at least, at most, about, or exactly 6 millimeters. In some aspects, a height-to- length aspect ratio or height-to-length ratio of any or each tooth 450 can be at least, at most,Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 about, or exactly 3.5 or, more specifically, 3.53 (when, for example, the height 457 is 1.7 millimeters and the length is 6 millimeters). In some aspects, a height-to-width aspect ratio or height-to-width ratio of any or each tooth 450 can be at least, at most, about, or exactly 0.8 or, more specifically, 0.85 at a minimum (when, for example, the height 457 is 1.7 millimeters and the width is 2.0 millimeters). In some aspects, a height-to-width aspect ratio or height-to-width ratio of any or each tooth 450 can be at least, at most, about, or exactly 0.4 at a minimum (when, for example, the height 457 is 1.7 millimeters and the width is 4.3 millimeters). In some aspects, a height-to-width aspect ratio or height-to-width ratio of any or each tooth 450 can be at least, at most, about, or exactly 0.3 at a minimum. In some aspects, the height 457 or another parameter of any or each tooth 450 can result in a height and / or surface area of the sides 453a,b engaging sufficiently to maintaining a position of one building block 100 with respect to a mating building block 100 connected to the one building block 100 via corresponding fasteners 300 on the building blocks 100 (for example, even when loaded as shown in Figure 24). The axial end surface 454 can be coincident with the second end 406 of the fastener body 400a,b. Together, the teeth 450 can define a circular pattern of raised features. An orientation of a pattern of the teeth 450 can vary between the fastener bodies 400a,b. For example and without limitation, starting at a starting angle 570 as shown, the teeth 450 of the fastener body 400a can be centered at 22.5, 67.5, 112.5, 157.5, 202.5, 247.5, 292.5, and 337.5 degrees. Accordingly, the cavities 458 of the fastener body 400a can be centered at 0, 45, 90, 135, 180, 225, 270, and 315 degrees. In some aspects, the side walls 453a,b defined by each of the plurality of teeth 450 can extend in a radial direction of the fastener 300 or, more specifically, the fastener body 400a,b with respect to the axis 301 of the fastener 300 (or the fastener 800 or, more specifically, the fastener body 900a,b with respect to the axis 801 of the fastener 800). As shown, the teeth 450 can define rotational symmetry or be rotationally symmetric about the axis 401.

[0113] In some aspects, each of or any of the teeth 450 can have an arc spacing 461 of 45 degrees and an arc width 462 of 22.5 degrees and can be radially spaced equidistant from one another about the perimeter of the fastener body 400a,b and, more specifically, the second portion 420 thereof. Similarly, each of or any of the projection cavities or cavities 458 can have an arc spacing 466 of 45 degrees and an arc width 467 of 22.5 degrees and can also be radially spaced equidistant from one another about the perimeter of the fastener body 400a,b and, more specifically, the second portion 420 thereof. The measurements of the arc width 462 and the arc width 467 can be equal or about equal to allow for the teeth 450 of the fastener 300 of one building block 100 to be received within the cavity 458 of theAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 fastener 300 of another building block 100. The measurements of the arc width 462 and the arc width 467 can be about 22.5 degrees or can be otherwise adjusted to account for manufacturing tolerances and / or assembly considerations such that, for example, a fit between fasteners 300 of two building blocks 100 is not too tight or too loose. In some aspects, any of the angular spacing or dimensions can be otherwise based on the quantity of the teeth 450. In the center of the teeth 450, a circular area (e.g., the third portion 483 of the cavity 480) can be defined that need not raised, and such circular area can create the appearance of a pie with a hole in the center. The sides 453a,b of each tooth 450 can be orthogonally oriented in relation to the top surface of each tooth (or substantially so, in the case of the presence of one or more draft angles). More specifically, this can reduce or eliminate any tendency of assembled building blocks 100 to separate by minimizing or eliminating surfaces of the teeth 450 that might function as ramps and slide past each other. At a base of each side 453a,b the fastener body 400a,b can define a fillet feature 456, which defining a radius or angled surface.

[0114] In some aspects, the sides 453a,b and each tooth 450 of two building blocks 100 assembled to each other can define an interference fit in which an additional force is required to engage the building blocks 100. In some aspects, the sides 453a,b and each tooth 450 of two building blocks 100 assembled to each other can define a non-interference fit. More specifically, the gap between the sides 453a,b can be zero to facilitate a tighter fit or greater than zero to, for example and without limitation, to accommodate tolerances or allow additional play between the parts and reduce the assembly force.

[0115] Figure 4D is a sectional view of the first fastener body 400a of Figure 4A taken along line 4D-4D of Figure 4C. In some aspects, each of or any of the diameters 486,487,488 can be constant across the respective portions 481,482,483 of the cavity 480 or substantially so (“substantially” meaning here to constant except for any draft angle that may be incorporated, e.g., for manufacturability). As such, the portions 481,482,483 and, more generally, the cavity 480 can define a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical surface. In some aspects, as shown, an intersection between the first portion 410 and the second portion 420 can be defined in the third portion 483 of the cavity 480. The first portion 410 can define an overall height 417, and the second portion 420 can define an overall height 427. The portions 481,482,483 can define respective heights 491,492,493. The height 491 can be sized to receive at least part of the spacer 700, and the height 492 can be sized to receive the fastener body 600.Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010

[0116] Figure 4E is a bottom view of the first fastener body 400a of Figure 4A. In some aspects, a first portion 481 can define the diameter 486 (shown in Figure 4E) and can be sized to receive and maintain a position of the spacer 700 (shown in Figure 3A) and also the fastener body 600 (shown in Figure 3A). In some aspects, a second portion 482 can define the diameter 487 (shown in Figure 4E) and can be sized to receive and maintain a position of the fastener body 600 but not the spacer 700. In some aspects, a third portion 483 can define the diameter 488 (shown in Figure 4E) and can be sized to not receive or at least allow passage of the fastener body 600 or the spacer 700. The cavity 480 or the portions 481,482,483 thereof can thus maintain respective positions of the various elements of the fastener 300. In some aspects, as shown, the cavity 480 can circular in shape, at least in cross-section. In some aspects, the cavity 480 can non-circular in shape, at least in cross- section. A different between the diameters 487,488 can result in a fastener body such as, for example and without limitation, the first fastener body 400a comprising or defining a flange or ledge or shoulder defining a surface facing in an axial direction, which can maintain a position of the fastener body 600 within the first fastener body 400.

[0117] Figure 5A is a top perspective view, Figure 5B is a bottom perspective view, and Figure 5C is a top view of the first fastener body 400b of the second fastener 300b of Figure 3B. With an adjustment of the starting angle 570, as shown, the teeth 450 of the fastener body 400a can be centered at 0, 45, 90, 135, 180, 225, 270, and 315 degrees. Accordingly, the cavities 458 of the fastener body 400b can be centered at 22.5, 67.5, 112.5, 157.5, 202.5, 247.5, 292.5, and 337.5 degrees. In some aspects, therefore, the fastener bodies 400a,b need not be identical—for example, to facilitate alignment or else “clocking” about an axis of two building blocks 100 at relative assembly angles of 0, 45, 90, 135, 180, 225, 270, and 315 degrees during assembly (as shown in Figures 20A–20C)—but can otherwise be identical. In some aspects, the fastener bodies 400a,b can be identical in all dimensional aspects. Other features of the fastener body 400b can be as described above for the fastener body 400a.

[0118] In some aspects, a color or other non-dimensional aspects can vary between the fastener bodies 400a,b. For example and without limitation, the fastener body 400a can be blue and the fastener body 400b can be pink, and the resulting difference in color between the two fastener bodies 400b can indicate to a user of the building blocks 100 how they might want to join the building blocks 100 to obtain the desired orientations (e.g., relative assembly angles of 0, 45, 90, 135, 180, 225, 270, and 315 degrees). Furthermore, the polarity of the fastener body 600 as a magnet can correspond consistently to the visualAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 appearance of the fastener 300a,b or, more specifically, the fastener body 400a,b. For example and without limitation, the fastener body 400a can always be blue (or any other desired color) and have the north pole of the fastener body 600 facing outward or in the direction of the teeth 450 thereof, and the fastener body 400b, for example, can always be pink (or any other desired color other than the color selected for the fastener body 400a) and have the south pole of the fastener body 600 facing outward or in the direction of the teeth 450 thereof. In some aspects, sides of the fastener body 600 can be differently colored based on polarity to indicate differences in polarity to the user.

[0119] Figure 6A is a top perspective view of the second fastener body 600 of each of the pair of fasteners 300a,b of Figure 3B. In some aspects, again, the fastener body 600 can be or can comprise a magnet. More specifically, the magnet can be a permanent magnet. In some aspects, the magnet can be formed from or comprise neodymium (NdFeB). More specifically, the magnet can be formed from or comprise the neodymium alloy with a Nd2Fe14B tetragonal crystalline structure. A strength grade of the magnet can be at most or at least N35, N42, or N53. In some aspects, the fastener body 600 can comprise another magnetic material. For example and without limitation, the fastener body 600 can comprise a ceramic magnet material. In some aspects, the fastener body 600 can comprise a non- magnetic fastener material such as, for example and without limitation, hook-and-loop fastener materials. More specifically, the fastener body 600 on one side of the building block 100 or corresponding to a certain pattern of the teeth 450 can comprise a hook portion of the hook-and-loop material, and the fastener body 600 on the other side of the building block 100, which can be an opposite side of the building block 100, can comprise a loop portion of the hook-and-loop material. The fastener body 600 can be configured to maintain a position of the fastener 300 of one building block 100 with respect to the fastener 300 on another building block 100 through a magnetic or other fastening force, which can attract the fastener body 600 on the one building block 100 to the fastener body 600 accompanying the fastener 300 of the other building block 100.

[0120] The fastener body 600 can define an axis 601. The fastener body 600 can define the first end 605 and the second end 606, which can define respective end surfaces 615,616 (616 shown in Figure 1D). The fastener body 600 can define an outer surface or side surface 602. The fastener body 600 can define a thickness 660 and a major width or diameter 670. More specifically, for example and without limitation, the diameter 670 can measure at most or at least 12 mm and the thickness 660 can measure at most or at least 3 mm. In some aspects, the fastener body 600 can be define a circular shape. MoreAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 specifically, the fastener body 600 can define a disc shape. The side surface 602 can thus be cylindrical in shape. In some aspects, the fastener body 600 can define a non-circular (e.g., square) shape. The fastener body 600 can define an edge treatment 607, which can define a radius or angled surface such as a chamfer, at the first end 605 and / or the second end 606 and, more specifically, at one or more intersections of the side surface 602 and the ends 605,606. The edge treatment can facilitate assembly of the fastener body 600 to and / or insertion in surrounding parts of the building block 100.

[0121] Figure 6B is a top perspective view of the second fastener body 600 of Figure 6A when axially magnetized, and Figure 6C is a top perspective view of the second fastener body 60 of Figure 6A when diametrically magnetized. In some aspects, as shown in Figure 6B, the fastener body 600 can be axially magnetized and, as mentioned already, can be polarized such that a midpoint or middle boundary or boundary 620 of the fastener body 600 and, more specifically, a middle boundary of a cylindrical shape defined thereby is a transition between the aforementioned north and south poles. In some aspects, as shown in Figure 6C, the fastener body 600 can be diametrically magnetized and can be polarized such that the boundary 620 of the fastener body 600 extending in a radial direction of the fastener body 600 with respect to the axis 601 can be a transition between the aforementioned north and south poles. In some aspects, when comprising or defining an axially magnetized magnet, the fastener body 600 can be configured to not move inside—and generally need not move inside—the structural member 200. In some aspects, when comprising or defining a diametrically magnetized magnet, the fastener body 600 can be configured to move inside the structural member 200. More specifically, two diametrically magnetized magnets forming at least part of the fastener bodies 600 of two separate building blocks 100 can self-locate during engagement such that similar poles on the separate fastener bodies 600 repel each other and opposing poles move nearer to each other, which can thereby result in a greater attraction force between the separate fastener bodies 600 and, more generally, the building blocks 100.

[0122] In some aspects, with the use of diametrically magnetized magnets in the fastener body 600, twice as many build angles or orientations between two building blocks 100 can be enabled because two instances of the fastener bodies 400a or 400b or the fastener bodies 900a or 900b can be assembled to each other without regard to the polarity of the magnets, which again can self-locate. More specifically, in additional to dissimilar fastener bodies 400a,b or 900a,b engaging with each other (400a with 400b or 900a with 900b), the teeth 450 of similar fastener bodies 400a or 400b can engage with each other (400a with 400a orAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 400b with 400b) or the teeth 450 of similar fastener bodies 900a or 900b can engage with each other (900a with 900a or 900b with 900b).

[0123] Figure 7 is a top perspective view of the spacer 700 of Figure 3B. In some aspects, the spacer 700 can be solid. In some aspects, the spacer 700 can be hollow. The spacer 700 can be configured to maintain a position of the one or more fastener bodies 600 received within or otherwise secured to the fasteners 300 of the building block 100 and thereby facilitate fastening of two or more building blocks 100 with a consistent magnetic or other fastening force. The spacer 700 can define an axis 701. The spacer 700 can define the first end 705 and the second end 706, which can define the respective end surfaces 715,716 (716 shown in Figure 1D). The spacer 700 can define an outer surface or side surface 702. The spacer 700 can define a thickness 760 and a major width or diameter 770. In some aspects, the spacer 700 can be define a circular shape. More specifically, the spacer 700 can define a disc shape. The side surface 702 can be cylindrical in shape. In some aspects, the spacer 700 can define a non-circular shape. The spacer 700 can define an edge treatment 707, which can define a radius or angled surface such as a chamfer, at the first end 705 and / or the second end 706 and, more specifically, at one or more intersections of the side surface 702 and the ends 705,706. The edge treatment can facilitate assembly of the spacer 700 to and / or insertion in surrounding parts of the building block 100.

[0124] Figure 8 is an exploded top perspective view of a third fastener 800b of the building block 100 of Figure 1A. The third fastener or just fastener 800b can comprise the fastener body 900b. Similarly, the third fastener or just fastener 800a (shown in Figure 9A) can comprise the fastener body 900a. The fastener assembly 800a,b can be secured to an end (e.g., as shown in Figure 2A, the ends 215,216 of the structural member 200). Together, as shown in Figure 1A, a pair of the fastener assemblies 800a,b can define a “vertical” assembly or fastener pair. In some aspects, the fastener assemblies 800a,b can define a mating seam or assembly seam 358, at which the fastener assemblies 800a,b can be in mating contact.

[0125] Figures 9A–9C and 10A–10B are various views of the fastener bodies 900a,b of the respective fasteners 800a,b of Figure 8. Figure 9A is a top perspective view of a first fastener body 900a of the third fastener 800a of Figure 1A. Figure 9A is a top perspective view of the fastener body 900a of the fastener 800a, which again can be, more generally, the fastener body 900. The fastener body 900a,b can define a first end 905 and a second end 906. The fastener body 900a,b can further define the axis 901, which can extend from the first end 905 to the second end 906. The fastener body 900a,b can comprise a firstAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 portion 910 extending from the first end 905 and a second portion 920 extending from the second end 906. The fastener body 900a,b can define a bore or recess or pocket or cavity 980, into which the fastener body 600 (e.g., a magnet; shown in Figure 6) and / or the spacer 700 (shown in Figure 7) can be inserted. In some aspects, as shown, the cavity 980 can extend from the first end 905 to the second end 906 and thus through each of the first portion 910 and the second portion 920. As such, each fastener body 900a,b of the fastener 800 can be a shell and therefore can be hollow.

[0126] The first end 905 and the first portion 910 can be configured to be received about or around the structural member 200 (shown in Figure 1A) and, more specifically, one of the ends 215,216 (shown in Figure 1A) thereof. The first portion 910 can define an inner surface 931 (shown in Figure 9C), which can at least in part define the cavity 980, and an outer surface 932. More specifically, the outer surface 932 can comprise sides 913,914 defining respective side faces 923,924 and minor lateral ends or sides or just ends or sides 917,918 (918 not shown) defining end faces 927,928 (928 not shown). The first portion 910 can define a first end surface 935 (shown in Figure 9C) and a second end surface 936, which can be a transition or shoulder between the first portion 910 and the second portion 920. The cavities 458 can define or be defined by a ledge or bottom surface 468, which can be offset in an axial direction away from the second end 936 of the first portion 910.

[0127] A shape and / or size of the fastener assembly 800a,b (800b shown in Figure 10A) and, more specifically, the cavity 980 defined therein can match or substantially match a shape of the first end 215 or the second end 216 of the structural member 200. More specifically, in some aspects, the fastener body 900a,b can define a trapezoidal shape defining a bevel angle 970 (shown in Figure 10D) when viewed from the side (as shown with respect to the fastener body 900b in Figure 10D). In cross-section, the fastener body 900a,b can define a rectangular or substantially rectangular shape and, more generally, a polygonal shape, as shown—whatever shape can engage the first end 215 or the second end 216 or otherwise assemble to the structural member 200 (including without the cavity 980, as may be desired, by the fastener body 900a,b protruding entirely from the structural member 200, in which case the fastener body 900a,b could be surface-mounted to the structural member 200). More specifically, the fastener body 900a,b and a shape thereof can be configured to not rotate when received about one of the ends 215,216 of the structural member 200. For manufacturability or other considerations, the outer surface 932 of the first portion 910 can comprise one or more edge treatments 933, each which can be a chamfer or radius or other easing of the edges of the shape of the first portion 910. Again, as described above, theAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 fastener body 900a,b or at least features thereof can be formed together with the structural member 200 to form one or more monolithic parts of the building block 100.

[0128] The second end 906 and the second portion 920 can be configured to engage the fastener bodies 400,900 such as, for example and without limitation, the fastener body 400a,b or the fastener body 900a,b of a separate building block 100. More specifically, the second portion 920 can define a plurality of the teeth 450, which can extend in a direction parallel to the axis 801 of the fastener assembly 800 and an axis 901 of the fastener body 900a,b—and which, as with other elements disclosed herein, can be numbered separately from the teeth 450. The cavity 458 defined between each pair of adjacent teeth 450 of the plurality of teeth 450 of the fastener body 900a,b and, more generally, the fastener 800, can be sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth 450 defined in a second fastener 800 of the separate building block 100. The plurality of teeth 450 of the fastener body 900a,b and, more generally, the first fastener 800 can be configured to lockably engage with a plurality of teeth 450 of the second fastener 800 and, more specifically, the fastener body 900a,b thereof.

[0129] Again, each of the fastener bodies 900a,b can comprise a plurality of the teeth 450. In some aspects, each of the fastener bodies 900a,b can comprise at least 4 teeth 450. In some aspects, each of the fastener bodies 900a,b can comprise at least 8 teeth 450. In some aspects, each of the fastener bodies 900a,b can comprise between 4 and 8 teeth 450, inclusive of the endpoints of this range. In some aspects, a quantity of the teeth 450 can be an even number. In some aspects, a quantity of the teeth 450 can be wholly divisible by 4. The teeth 450 can be sized to not extend beyond a perimeter of the fastener body 900a,b when viewed from the top as in Figure 9B. More specifically, as shown, one or more of the teeth 450 can be truncated at the sides 913,914 to avoid interference during assembly of multiple building blocks 100. More generally, the teeth 450 of the fastener body 900a,b can be formed by “embedding” the second portion 420 of the fastener body 400a,b in the second portion 920 of the fastener body 900a,b to form the protrusions cavities 480 therein.

[0130] Figure 9B is a top view of the first fastener body 900a of Figure 9A. In some aspects, each of the teeth 450 of the fastener body 900a,b can define one or more of the radially inner surface 451, the radially outer surface 452, the sides 453a,b, and the axial end surface 454. In some aspects, each of the teeth 450 can define a single side 453, which can be continuous around a perimeter of the tooth 450. Each of or any of the teeth 450 can define a height 457. The axial end surface 454 can be coincident with the second end 406 of the fastener body 900a,b. Together, the teeth 450 can define a circular pattern of raisedAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 features. An orientation of a pattern of the teeth 450 can vary between the fastener bodies 900a,b. For example and without limitation, as shown, the teeth 450 of the fastener body 900a can be centered at 22.5, 67.5, 112.5, 157.5, 202.5, 247.5, 292.5, and 337.5 degrees. Accordingly, the cavities 458 of the fastener body 900a can be centered at 0, 45, 90, 135, 180, 225, 270, and 315 degrees.

[0131] In some aspects, each of or any of the teeth 450 can have an arc spacing 461 of 45 degrees and an arc width 462 of 22.5 degrees and can be radially spaced equidistant from one another about the perimeter of the fastener body 900a,b and, more specifically, the second portion 420 thereof. Similarly, each of or any of the cavities 458 can have an arc spacing 466 of 45 degrees and an arc width 467 of 22.5 degrees and can also be radially spaced equidistant from one another about the perimeter of the fastener body 900a,b and, more specifically, the second portion 420 thereof. The measurements of the arc width 462 and the arc width 467 can be equal or about equal to allow for the teeth 450 of the fastener 800 of one building block 100 to be received within the cavities 458 of the fastener 800 of another building block 100. The measurements of the arc width 462 and the arc width 467 can be about 22.5 degrees or can be otherwise adjusted to account for manufacturing tolerances and / or assembly considerations such that, for example, a fit between fasteners 800 of two building blocks 100 is not too tight or too loose. In some aspects, any of the angular spacing or dimensions can be otherwise based on the quantity of the teeth 450. In the center of the teeth 450, a circular area (e.g., the third portion 483 of the cavity 480) can be defined that need not raised, and such circular area can create the appearance of a pie with a hole in the center.

[0132] The sides 453a,b of each tooth 450 can be orthogonally oriented or perpendicular in relation to the top surface of each tooth (or substantially so, in the case of the presence of one or more draft angles). When each tooth 450 is perpendicular to the plane of the first building block 100 and yet parallel to the corresponding teeth 450 of the other building block 100, the teeth 450 can resist rotational movement, and forces acting to separate the mating building blocks 100 can be prevented. That the sides 453 of each tooth 450 face in only a radial direction can result in a force acting on the joint of the two building blocks 100 having no axial component or a low axial component. The existence of such an axial component can otherwise tend to separate the building blocks 100. At a base of each side 453a,b the fastener body 900a,b can define a fillet feature 456, which defining a radius or angled surface. More generally, the various features and dimensional relationships of the teeth 450 of the fastener body 900a,b can match those of the teeth 450 of the fastener body 400a,b.Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 As such, the teeth 450 and, more generally, the second portion 920 of any of the fastener bodies 900a,b can engage fully with the teeth 450 and, more generally, the second portion 420 of any of the fastener bodies 400a,b, and vice versa.

[0133] Figure 9C is a bottom view of the first fastener body 900a of Figure 9A. As shown, the cavity 980 of the fastener body 900a,b can define more than one portion 981,982,983. Each portion 982,983 can define respective diameters 987,988, which can be smaller or larger than that of an adjacent portion 982,983. In some aspects, as shown, the portion 981 can define a minor dimension 986, which can be a diameter of the portion 981. In some aspects, the portion 981 can define major dimensions 989a,b. More specifically, in some aspects, each of the major dimensions 989a,b can be greater than the minor dimension 986. The first portion 981 can be sized to receive and maintain a position of one of the ends 215,216 (shown in Figure 2A) of the structure member 200 (shown in Figure 2A) therein. In some aspects, a second portion 982 can define the diameter 987 (shown in Figure 9C) and can be sized to receive and maintain a position of the fastener body 600 but not either of the ends 215,216. In some aspects, a third portion 983 can define the diameter 988 (shown in Figure 9C) and can be sized to not receive or at least allow passage of the fastener body 600 or the structural member 200. The cavity 980 or the portions 981,982,983 thereof can thus maintain respective positions of the various elements of the fastener 800. In some aspects, as shown, the cavity 980 can be non-circular in shape, at least in cross-section. In some aspects, the cavity 980 can be circular in shape, at least in part and / or in cross-section.

[0134] Figure 10A is a top perspective view and Figure 10B is a top view of a fourth fastener body 900b of a fourth fastener 800b of the building block of Figure 1A. With an adjustment of the starting angle 570, as shown, the teeth 450 of the fastener body 900a can be centered at 0, 45, 90, 135, 180, 225, 270, and 315 degrees. Accordingly, the cavities 458 of the fastener body 900b can be centered at 22.5, 67.5, 112.5, 157.5, 202.5, 247.5, 292.5, and 337.5 degrees. In some aspects, therefore, the fastener bodies 900a,b need not be identical—for example, to facilitate alignment or else “clocking” of two building blocks 100 at relative assembly angles of 0, 45, 90, 135, 180, 225, 270, and 315 degrees during assembly (as shown in Figures 20A–20C)—but can otherwise be identical. In some aspects, the fastener bodies 900a,b can be identical in all dimensional aspects.

[0135] In some aspects, a color or other non-dimensional aspects can vary between the fastener bodies 900a,b. For example and without limitation, the fastener body 900a can be blue and the fastener body 900b can be pink, and the resulting difference in color between the two fastener bodies 900b can indicate to a user of the building blocks 100 how theyAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 might want to join the building blocks 100 to obtain the desired orientations (e.g., relative assembly angles of 0, 45, 90, 135, 180, 225, 270, and 315 degrees). Furthermore, the polarity of the fastener body 600 as a magnet can correspond consistently to the visual appearance of the fastener 800a,b or, more specifically, the fastener body 900a,b. For example and without limitation, the fastener body 900a can always be blue (or any other desired color) and have the north pole of the fastener body 600 facing outward or in the direction of the teeth 450 thereof, and the fastener body 900b, for example, can always be pink (or any other desired color other than the color selected for the fastener body 900a) and have the south pole of the fastener body 600 facing outward or in the direction of the teeth 450 thereof. In some aspects, sides of the fastener body 600 can be differently colored based on polarity to indicate differences in polarity to the user.

[0136] Figure 10C is a bottom perspective view of the first fastener body 900b of Figure 10A. As shown and described in further detail below, the cavity 980 can define more than one portion 981,982,983, and each portion 982,483 can define the respective diameters 487,488 (shown in Figures 9C), which can be smaller or larger than that of an adjacent portion 482,483. Other features of the fastener body 900b can be as described above for the fastener body 900a.

[0137] Figure 10D is a sectional view of the first fastener body 900a of Figure 10A taken along line 10D-10D of Figure 10B. In some aspects, each of or any of the dimensions 986,989a,b or diameters 987,988 can be constant across the respective portions 981,982,983 of the cavity 980 or substantially so (“substantially” meaning here to constant except for any draft angle or edge treatment, e.g., the edge treatment 260 shown in Figure 2B, that may be incorporated, e.g., for manufacturability). As such, one or more of the portions 981,982,983 and, more generally, the cavity 980 can define a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical surface. As shown, the portions 982,983 can define a cylindrical surface. In some aspects, as shown, an intersection between the first portion 910 and the second portion 920 can be defined in the third portion 983 of the cavity 980. The first portion 910 can define an overall height 937, and the second portion 920 can define an overall height 947. The portions 981,982,983 can define respective heights 991,992,993. The height 991 can be sized to receive at least part of the structural member 200, and the height 992 can be sized to receive the fastener body 600. Again, the fastener body 900a,b can define the bevel angle 970 on one or more sides thereof, which can allow separate building blocks 100 to be in close proximity, including when angled with respect to each other at interface positions or positions 2050 (shown in Figure 20D). In some aspects, without the bevel angle 970, theAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 building blocks 100 can interfere with each other at the interface positions 2050 and need not be configured to build certain structures.

[0138] Figures 11A–13C are various views of the building block 100 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure in which a) two or more building blocks 100 are joined to each other with a separate connecting fastener 1100 (shown in Figure 11D) that extend through and engage the building blocks and b) the fasteners 300 and the fasteners 800, where present, define generally smooth faces, e.g., without the teeth 450 disclosed above in reference to Figures 1A–10D.

[0139] Figure 11A is a top perspective view of the building block 100 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the building block 100 can comprise the fastener 300, which can be received with the structural member 200 proximate to one end such as the first end 215. More specifically, the fastener 300 can comprise the fastener body 400, which can be an insert. The first end 405 (shown in Figure 11B) of the fastener body 400 can be received within the cavity 238 defined in the structural member 200, and the second end 406 can be positioned flush or near flush to the surface 223 of the side 213 of the structural member 200. The second end 406 of the fastener body 400 or a portion thereof can define a flat or substantially flat surface, which in some aspects can additionally be planar. The cavity 480 of the fastener body 400 can be sized and configured to lockably receive and engage the connecting fastener 1100. In some aspects, as shown, a major dimension 488b of the cavity 480 can be angled at 90 degrees with respect to a longitudinal direction of the building block 100 along which the length L201 (shown in Figure 2B) of the structural member 200 is measured.

[0140] Figure 11B is a top perspective view of the fastener body 400 of the fastener 300 of the building block 100 of Figure 11A. Again, the fastener body 400 can define at least one or, as shown, all of the axis 401, the first end 405, the second end 406, the inner surface 431, and the outer surface 432, and the cavity 480. In some aspects, as shown, the cavity 480 and, more specifically, each of portions 483a,b thereof can have or define an elongated shape, e.g., a slot in which at one or both of the ends 405,406 a minor dimension 488a can be less than the major dimension 488b. In some aspects, as shown, the outer surface 432 of the fastener body 400 can define a cylindrical surface or, at least in cross-section, a circular shape. In some aspects, the outer surface 432 of the fastener body 400 can define a non- cylindrical surface or, at least in cross-section, a non-circular shape.

[0141] In some aspects, as shown, each of the first end 405 and the second end 406 can define a smooth surface (which can mean absent discrete protrusions such as the teeth 450 shownAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 in Figure 4A), which can be parallel to the surface of the component into which the fastener body 400 is inserted such as, for example and without limitation, one of the surfaces 223,224 (224 shown in Figure 1B) of the respective sides 213,214 (214 shown in Figure 1B) of the structural member 200. More specifically, the first end 405 can be positioned flush or substantially flush with the surface 224 of the side 214, and the second end 406 can be positioned flush or substantially flush with the surface 223 of the side 213. In some aspects, geometry of the fastener body 400 can be integrally formed into the ends of the structural member 200 (such as, for example and without limitation, a keyhole slot can be formed directly in a block of wood). More specifically, the structural member 200 can be monolithically formed with such geometry without the separate formed fastener body 400. Such integral formation and even monolithic can reduce the number of parts required to form the building block 100. In some aspects, if can be beneficial to form the fasteners 300,800 separately to take advantage of the properties of a different material for the fasteners for reasons related to, for example and without limitation, manufacturability and / or performance.

[0142] Figure 11C is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body 400 of Figure 11B. As shown, the cavity 480 and, more specifically, the portion 482 thereof can have or define a cylindrical shape defining the diameter 487. The portion 482 can define a recess 1180, which can be defined by ribs 1150 and can maintain a position of a portion of the connecting fastener 1100 received within the fastener body 400 or within equivalent geometry formed in the structural member 200. The diameter 487 can be equal to or larger than a diagonal length 1170 of the cavity 480 at the first end 405 and / or the second end 406.

[0143] Figure 11D is a perspective view of the connecting fastener 1100, which can be configured to join the building block 100 of Figure 11A to a second building block 100 of similar construction in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure. The connecting fastener 1100 can comprise a head 1110 and a shaft 1120. More specifically, the head 1110 can define a first surface 1112, which can be angled (e.g., at 90 degrees) with respect to an axis 1101 of the fastener, can be planar or substantially so, can define a circular shape, and can thus be washer-like. The head 1110 can define a second surface 1114, which can define a tab or handle or finger grip extending from or proximate to the first surface 1112. The second surface 1114 can facilitate rotation of the head 1110 and, more generally, the connecting fastener 1100 by a user during use. In some aspects, as shown, the second surface 1114 can define a length 1117 that is longer than a diameter 1126 of the shaft 1120, which can facilitate rotation of the connecting fastener 1100 by the user during useAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 assembly, especially where the user is a young child or must repeat the use of the connecting fastener 1100 many times while building a large structure.

[0144] The shaft 1120 can comprise or can define a locking member or locking element 1130. In some aspects, as shown, the locking element 1130 can be or can comprise a discrete structural element positioned at one location along the shaft 1120. More specifically, the locking element 1130 can comprise a bar, which can be a cylindrical extrusion and can be perpendicular to the shaft 1120. The locking element 1130 can function as a latch in the process of holding together two instances of the building block 100.

[0145] The shaft 1120 can define one or more lengths 1127a,b,c. The length 1127a can be measured to a portion of the locking element 1130 that is nearest to the head 1110, the length 1127c can be measured to a portion of the locking element 1130 that is furthest from the head 1110, and the length 1127b can be measured to a center or axis 1131 of the locking element 1130. For example and without limitation, the length 1127a can be set at least an effectiveness thickness or the length L107 (shown in Figure 11A) of the building block 100 plus the height 493 (shown in Figure 11C) of the portion 483 of the cavity 480 of the fastener body 400, which can describe the geometry at both ends 405,406 of the fastener body 400 or equivalent geometry in the structural member 200. For example and without limitation, the length 1127b can be set at the effectiveness thickness or the length L107 of the building block 100 plus an engagement depth 1193, which can be a target position of a center of the locking element 1130 inside the building block 100. For example and without limitation, the length 1127c can be set at the effectiveness thickness or the length L107 of the building block 100 plus the height 493 plus the height 492 (shown in Figure 11C) of the portion 482 of the cavity 480 of the fastener body 400, which can be a maximum depth of any portion of the locking element 1130 inside the building block 100.

[0146] In some aspects, the locking element 1130 can extend some greater distance down the shaft. For example and without limitation, the locking element 1130 can comprise more than a single structural element and / or can comprise a continuous element (e.g., a helical thread) configured to engage with one or both of the building blocks 100 through which it extends and engages. The lengths 1127a,b,c of the connecting fastener 1100 can be greater to allow for engagement with and connection of more than two building blocks 100. In using any of the structures disclosed herein, the connecting fastener 1100 and the mating fasteners such as, for example and without limitation, the fastener 300 can be toggled between a locked position (as shown in any one of Figures 21A–23) and an unlocked position to connect or disconnect two or more building blocks 100 by rotation of theAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 connecting fastener 1100 inside the one or more corresponding inserts, e.g., the fastener bodies 400 with which the connecting fastener 1100 is engaged.

[0147] Figure 12A is a top perspective view of the building block 100 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, in addition to or instead of the fastener 300 and the fastener body 400, the fastener 800 and the fastener body 900 can be received within the structural member 200. The connecting fastener 1100 (shown in Figure 11D) can be received within, for example and without limitation, either the side 213,214 (214 shown in Figure 1B) or and end of the building block 100 such as the end 215. In some aspects, as shown, the major dimension 488b of the cavity 480 can be angled at 0 degrees with respect to, i.e., can be aligned with, a longitudinal direction of the building block 100 along which the length L201 of the structural member 200 is measured.

[0148] Figure 12B is a top perspective view of the structural member 200 of the building block 100 of Figure 12A. The structural member 200 can define more than two instances of the cavities 238 in the sides 213,214 (214 shown in Figure 1B) and, more specifically, the surfaces 223,224 (224 shown in Figure 1B). In some aspects, as shown, the structural member 200 can define cavities 238 at positions proximate to the ends 215,216 and additionally in one or more locations positioned distal from the ends 215,216. More specifically, the structural member 200 can define cavities 238 centered at least several inches or one third of the way down the length L201 of the structural member. In some aspects, as shown, the structural member 200 can define cavities 1280 in the ends 215,216.

[0149] Figure 12C is a top perspective view of the fastener body 400 of the fastener 300 of the building block 100 of Figure 12A. Again, the fastener body 400 can define at least one or, as shown, all of the axis 401, the first end 405, the second end 406, the inner surface 431, and the outer surface 432. As shown, the fastener body 400 can define two or more instances of the cavity 480,980, e.g., one instance of the cavity 480 extending from each of the ends 405,406 and between the ends 405,406 and the cavity 980 defined in the outer surface 432 in a position that can be offset as shown between each of the ends 405,406. An axis 402, which can be angled at 90 degrees with respect to the axis 401, can define a direction of extension of the cavity 980 or portion thereof defined in the outer surface 432. Each of the cavities 480,980 can have or define an elongated shape, e.g., a slot in which at one or both of the ends 405,406 the minor dimension 488a (shown in Figure 11B) can be less than a major dimension 488b (shown in Figure 11B) and, in the case of the cavity 980, a minor dimension 988a can be less than a major dimension 988b. A portion of one or, as shown,Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 both of the cavities 480,980 can define a rectangular or substantially rectangular shape, and a portion 1270 can define a circular shape defining a diameter 1277.

[0150] Again, each of the first end 405 and the second end 406 can define a smooth surface, which can be parallel to the surface of the component into which the fastener body 400 is inserted. More specifically, the first end 405 can be positioned flush or substantially flush with the surface 224 of the side 214, and the second end 406 can be positioned flush or substantially flush with the surface 223 of the side 213. Also as shown, the end 906 of the fastener body 900 can be positioned flush or substantially flush with the surface 225 of the end 215. In some aspects, geometry of the fastener body 900 can be integrally formed into one or both of the ends 215,216 of the structural member 200. More specifically, the structural member 200 can be monolithically formed with such geometry without the separate formed fastener body 900, whether or not the geometry of the fastener body 400 is so formed.

[0151] Figure 12D is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body 400 of Figure 12C. As shown, the cavity 480 as defined in the outer surface 432 of the fastener body 900 (shown in Figure 12A) and, more specifically, the portion 982 thereof—note that the portion 982 need not be defined in the fastener body 900—can have or define a cylindrical shape defining the diameter 987. The portion 982 can define a detent or recess 1180 (as shown in Figure 11C), which can be defined by ribs 1150 such as, for example and without limitation, exemplarily shown in Figure 11C or can be defined by a curved portion (as shown in Figure 14C) and can maintain a position of a portion of the connecting fastener 1100 received within the fastener body 400 or within equivalent geometry formed in the structural member 200. The diameter 987 can be equal to or larger than a diagonal length 1170 of the cavity 480 at the outer surface 432. Thus, as disclosed herein, the fastener body 400 and, more generally, can receive the connecting fastener 1100 through, for example and without limitation, the sides 213,214 or the ends 215,216 of the building block 100. As such, definition of the second cavity 480 in the fastener body 400 and / or use of the fastener body 900 can facilitate use of the ends of the building block 100 as additional connection points with another building block 100. In various aspects, alignment of the major dimension 488b of the cavities 480 does not limit the angle at which one building block 100 can be assembled to another building block 100. Rather such slots can require simply that a final position of the locking element 1130 (shown in Figure 11D) of the connecting fastener 1100 be angled with respect to the chosen orientation of the cavity 480 or at least the relevant portion thereof. As such, building blocks 100 can still be oriented at various fixed angles withAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 respect to one another. As such, it can be possible to “clock” one building block 100 with respect to another building block 100 at any of the available angular positions.

[0152] Figure 13A is a top perspective view of the building block 100 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the building block 100 can comprise discrete fasteners 300,800 whose fastener bodies 400,900 or separate portions thereof interact separately with the connecting fastener 1100. As shown, the fastener body 900 can be received about the structural member 200 as a cap. In some aspects, such construction can reduce the risk of tear-out of the material forming the structural member 200, especially at the ends 215,216 thereof. As also shown, the cavities 480 and 980 or at least portions thereof can again be incorporated into the same fastener body 400. More specifically, though, the building block 100 can be configured such that, as shown in Figure 23, one end 115,116 of the building block 100 can simultaneously incorporate both side and end connections with other building blocks 100.

[0153] Figure 13B is a top perspective view of the fastener body 400 of the fastener 300 of the building block 100 of Figure 13A. As shown, the fastener body 400 can define two or more instances of the cavity 480,980, e.g., one cavity 480 extending from each of the ends 405,406 and between the ends 405,406 and the cavity 980 defined in the outer surface 432 in a position that can be offset as shown between each of the ends 405,406. As shown, the portions 482,982 of the respective cavities 480,980 need not intersect. In some aspects, the portion 982 can define a greater width on one side of the fastener, which can ease entry, rotation, and engagement of the connecting fastener 1100 inside the fastener body 400 make defining a large space where the locking element 1130 of the connecting fastener 1100 begins to engage and tightening the space where the connecting fastener 1100 completes engagement, which can define a recess 1180. Between the wide and narrow portions of the portion 982, the fastener body 400 can define a ramp 1350 to gradually tighten the connecting fastener 1100 and, more generally, the assembled joint. More specifically, separate connecting fasteners 1100 can be received with the portions 482,982 and thereby connect two separate building blocks 100 to the building block 100 configured for the fastener bodies 400,900 shown. Each of the cavities 480,980 and, more generally, the fasteners 300,800 and their relationship with each other and with other components of the building block 100 can be configured or shaped as otherwise disclosed herein.

[0154] Figure 13C is a top perspective view of the second fastener body 900 of the second fastener 800 of the building block 100 of Figure 13A and the connecting fastener 1100, which can be configured to join the building block of Figure 13A to a second building blockAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 100 in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the fastener body 900 can be received both within and about the structural member 200 of the building block 100. More specifically, an inner portion 1310 defining a portion of the cavity 980—the other portion of the cavity 980 can, as shown, be defined in the fastener body 400 (shown in Figure 13B)—can be received within the cavity 1280 (shown in Figure 12B) defined in the structural member 200, and an outer portion 1320 can be received about or around—as a cap—an outer surface, e.g., the sides 213,214,217,218 of the structural member 200. An outermost portion of the corresponding end 215,216 of the structural member 200 can thus be received within a recess 1380 defined between the inner portion 1310 and the outer portion 1320.

[0155] Figures 14A–17B are various views of the building block 100 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. Again, the separate connecting fastener 1100 (shown in Figure 11D) can extend through and engage the building blocks 100 and thereby join two or more building blocks 100. As shown, with the exception of the geometry explicitly shown in Figures 16A and 16B, the fasteners 300 and / or the fasteners 800 or the equivalent geometry formed in the structural member 200 can also define the teeth 450. As such, the intermeshing teeth 450 of facing fasteners 300,800 of mating building blocks 100 can fasten together at various fixed angles with respect to each other. Again, as such, it can be possible to “clock” one building block 100 with respect to another building block 100 at any of the available angular positions.

[0156] Figure 14A is a top perspective view of the building block 100 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. Again, as shown, the cavities 480 and 980 or at least portions thereof can again be incorporated into the same fastener body 400, but the fastener body can further define the teeth 450. Again, though, the building block 100 can also be configured such that, as shown in Figure 23, one end 115,116 of the building block 100 can simultaneously incorporate both side and end connections with other building blocks 100. In some aspects, as shown, the fastener body 400c can define only the cavity 480 and can thus be configured to make only a side connection with a mating building block 100.

[0157] Figures 14B–14D are various views of the fastener body 400 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. Figure 14B is a top perspective view of the first fastener body 400 of the building block 100 of Figure 14A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the ends 405,406 can define two second portions 420a,b, each of which can define the teeth 450. More specifically, as shown, the fastener body 400Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 can define five teeth 450 at each of the ends 405,406. The fastener body 400 can otherwise comprise or define the geometry of the fastener body 400 shown in Figures 11A–11C. With respect to the connecting fastener 1100, one or more of the lengths 1127a,b,c can be adjusted based on the height 457 of the teeth 450.

[0158] Figure 14C is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body 400 of Figure 14B. The recess 1180 can define a curved surface defining a radius. Again, the portion 1270 can define a circular shape defining a radius or, as shown in Figure 12C, a diameter 1277.

[0159] Figure 14D is a top perspective view of the fastener body 400 of Figure 14B in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. Each of the first end 405 and the second end 406 and, more specifically, each of the teeth 450 can define an axial end surface 454 that is sloped or angled with respect to a radial direction. More specifically, a radially outermost edge of each tooth 450 can extend further, in an axial direction with respect to the axis 401, than a radially innermost edge of each tooth 450. For example, the axial end surface 454 of each tooth 450 can be angled by a slope angle 1470 at least 10 degrees with respect to the radial direction. More specifically, as shown, the fastener body 400 can define four teeth 450 at each of the ends 405,406.

[0160] Figure 14E is a top perspective view of the fastener body 400 of the building block 100 of Figure 14A. Again, the fastener body 400 can define two or more instances of the cavity 480,980, e.g., one cavity 480 extending from each of the ends 405,406 and between the ends 405,406 and the cavity 980 defined in the outer surface 432 in a position that can be offset as shown between each of the ends 405,406 and, again, the portions 482,982 of the respective cavities 480,980 need not intersect. In some aspects, the fastener body 400 can further define the teeth 450. More specifically, as shown, the fastener body 400 can define eight teeth 450 at each of the ends 405,406. Each of the cavities 480,980 and, more generally, the fasteners 300,800 and their relationship with each other and with other components of the building block 100 can be configured or shaped as otherwise disclosed herein.

[0161] Figure 14F is a top perspective view of the fastener body 900 of the building block 100 of Figure 14A. The teeth 450, with geometry similar as disclosed elsewhere herein with the exception of the radially outer surface 452, which is not necessary, can be embedded in the second end 906 of the fastener body 400.

[0162] Figures 15A–15B are various views of the fastener body 400 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure in which the fastener body 400 is configure to receive the connecting fastener 1100 not in a more centrally located portion 482 of the cavity 480—asAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 shown in Figures 12D and 14C—but in a portion 483 that is directly visible from an outside of the fastener body 400. As such, upon assembly of two building blocks 100 with the connecting fastener 1100 (shown in Figure 11D), the locking element 1130 (shown in Figure 11D) and its position in either the locked position or the unlocked position can be directly confirmed.

[0163] Figure 15A specifically is a top perspective view of the fastener body 400 or, more accurately, one half thereof. Between the open portion of the cavity 480 initially receiving at least the locking element 1130 of the connecting fastener 1100 and the recess 1180, the fastener body 400 can define a ramp 1550 across which a user can slide the locking element 1130 and thereby gradually tighten the connecting fastener 1100 and, more generally, the assembled joint. More specifically, as shown, the fastener body 400 can define eight teeth 450 at each of the ends 405,406.

[0164] Figure 15B is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body 400 of Figure 15A. As shown, the geometry engaging the locking element 1130 (shown in Figure 11D) of the connecting fastener (shown in Figure 11D) can be similar at the first end 405 and the second end 406 of the fastener body 400. With respect to the connecting fastener 1100, one or more of the lengths 1127a,b,c can be adjusted based on the height 457 of the teeth 450 and also the new position of the recess 1180 in which the locking element 1130 can finally rest upon full engagement.

[0165] Figure 16A is a top perspective view and Figure 16B is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body 400 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. In some aspects, while grouped together with several embodiments in which the fastener body 400 comprises the teeth 450 and, in some aspects, also features of the fastener body 900 such as the portion 982 of the cavity 980—as shown in Figures 14A–15B and / or 17A–17B— the fastener body 400 need not comprise the teeth 450. The fastener body 400 can comprise geometry otherwise similar to that shown in Figures 15A and 15B, e.g., one or more of the cavity 480 and, more specifically, the ramp 1550 and the recess 1180, as positioned on opposite sides or axial ends 405,406 of the fastener body 400. In some aspects, the fastener body 400 can define the geometry shown and additionally comprise the teeth 450.

[0166] Figure 17A is a top perspective view and Figure 17B is a sectional top perspective view of the fastener body 400 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. In some aspects, the teeth 450 can differ in geometry than the teeth 450 described above. More specifically, the teeth 450 can be formed without the edge treatment (e.g., radius orAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 chamfer) disclosed elsewhere herein. In some aspects, as shown, each of the cavities 458 can define a V-shaped trough or bottom panel instead of a flat trough or bottom panel. As shown, the fastener body 400 can define 24 teeth 450 at one of the ends 405,406, as shown; or, in other aspects, the fastener body 400 can define 24 teeth 450 at each of the ends 405,406. The fastener body 400 can comprise geometry otherwise similar to that shown in Figures 11A–11C.

[0167] Figures 18A–19 are various views of the building block 100 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown in Figures 1A–10D, no separate connecting fastener 1100 (shown in Figure 11D) is necessary to join two or more building blocks 100, and the fasteners 300 and / or the fasteners 800 can also define the teeth 450.

[0168] Figure 18A is a top perspective view and Figure 18B is a bottom perspective view of the building block 100 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. By incorporating, internal to the fasteners 300,800 and, more specifically, the fastener bodies 400,900, a fastener body 600, the connecting fastener 1100 need not be used or even accommodated. The fastener body 900 can comprise geometry similar to that shown in Figure 14F and otherwise described with respect to Figure 14F. More specifically, the teeth 450 can be made to not extend past a surrounding surface of the second end 906 of the fastener body 900. Rather, the teeth 450 can sit flush with such a surface and the cavities 458 can be embedded therein. The fastener body 400 can comprise geometry otherwise similar to that shown in Figures 1A –10D.

[0169] As shown in Figure 18A and described above, the fasteners 300 on one side, e.g., the side 213, can each define one magnetic polarity (e.g., a north pole) when the fastener 600 is a magnet; and, as shown in Figure 18B, the fasteners 300 on the opposite side, e.g., the side 214, can each define the opposite magnetic polarity (e.g., a south pole). More specifically, as described above, the appearance of the fasteners 300,900 can indicate such differences to a user (e.g., by using different colors for different fasteners 300,900 or portions thereof).

[0170] Figure 19 is a top perspective view of the building block 100 in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. The fastener body 900 can comprise geometry similar to that shown in Figure 14F and otherwise described with respect to Figure 14F. In some aspects, as shown, the teeth 450 can however extend past a surrounding surface of the second end 906 of the fastener body 900. The fastener body 400 can comprise geometry otherwise similar to that shown in Figures 1A –10D, including the hexagonal and, moreAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 generally, the polygonal shape. The fastener body 400 can comprise geometry otherwise similar to that shown in Figures 1A –10D.

[0171] Figure 20A is a side view of an assembly 2000 comprising a building block 100a of Figure 1A shown assembled in side-to-side facing arrangement to a second building block 100b of similar construction in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure. When the fastener body 600 is or comprises a magnet, magnets of opposite polarity generally attract each other and magnets of same polarity generally repel each other. As shown, a magnetic force produced by the fastener 300 of the building block 100a can attract the fastener 300 of the building block 100b to the fastener 300 of the building block 100a, and vice versa. Depending on which of the building blocks 110a,b, if either, is primarily supported by another structure (e.g., another building block 100 or a table or floor surface), the otherwise unsupported building block 110a,b can be supported in cantilever fashion by the supported building block 110a,b. More specifically, the axis 301 of the fastener 300 and, more generally, the fastener pair 305 of the building block 100b can be aligned with the axis 301 of the fastener 300 and, more generally, the fastener pair 305 of the building block 100a. Also as shown, the plurality of teeth 450 of the fastener 300 of the building block 100b can extend in an opposite direction from the plurality of teeth 450 of the fastener 300 of the building block 100a.

[0172] More specifically, the fixed position of each fastener 300,800 with respect to the structural member 200, which can mean being fixed against rotation about the axes 301,801 and / or movement in an axial direction with respect to the axes 301,801), can enable the building block 110 and, more specifically, the building blocks 110a,b to bear a cantilever load and not rotate with respect to each other or separate from each other or otherwise experience a failure of the connection therebetween. The fixed position of each fastener 300,800 can be ensured by the tight fit of the fastener 300,800 to the structural member 200, the non-circular shape or other anti-rotational aspects or structural elements of the fastener bodies 400,900, and / or other fasteners such as, for example and without limitation, an adhesive or other fastening material or structure between the fastener 300,800 and the structural member 200. As such, one or more of the fasteners 300,800 can be configured to not rotate, in any way, with respect to the structural member 200 during use and can thus be fixed in a position chosen by the user / builder even after the assembly is loaded.

[0173] Figure 20B is a top perspective view of the assembly 2000 comprising the two building blocks 100 of Figure 20A and showing the building block 100b assembled in end-to-side arrangement to the building block 100a in accordance with another aspect of the currentAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 disclosure. As shown, a magnetic force produced by the fastener 300 of the building block 100a can attract the fastener 800 of the building block 100b to the fastener 300 of the building block 100a, and vice versa. As shown, the axis 801 of the fastener 800 of the building block 100b can be aligned with the axis 301 of the fastener 300 and, more generally, the fastener pair 305 of the building block 100a. Also as shown, the plurality of teeth 450 of the fastener 800 of the building block 100b can extend in an opposite direction from the plurality of teeth 450 of the fastener 300 of the building block 100a. As shown, when the teeth 450 interface or mesh together, the teeth 450 can have no gaps or space between them. When the teeth 450 interface or mesh together, the teeth 450 can be configured to prevent any rotation of the mating fasteners 300,800 with respect to each other, thereby contributing to a strength of the joint.

[0174] Figure 20C is a top perspective view of the assembly 2000 comprising three building blocks 100 with connections similar to those shown in Figures 20A and 20B in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. The building block 100b is shown assembled in end-to-side arrangement to the building block 100a, and a building block 100c is shown assembled in side-to-side facing arrangement to the second building block 100b. As shown, the fasteners 300 and, more generally, the fastener pairs 305 can be aligned in one or more of the X, Y, and Z axes with each other and can be spaced apart by a fastener spacing 2010, which can be constant.

[0175] Figure 20D is a top perspective view of the assembly 2000 comprising a plurality of building blocks 100 of various sizes with connections similar to those shown in Figures 20A and 20B forming a “Ferris wheel” structure in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the chamfered edges of the fasteners 800 avoid interference between the building blocks 100 in certain assembly arrangements and especially when certain building blocks 100 are in close proximity and are angled at 45 degrees with each other.

[0176] In some aspects, a system (not shown) can comprise at least two unassembled building blocks 100. In some aspects, a system (not shown) can comprise at least two unassembled building blocks 100 and at least one connecting fastener 1100. The at least two unassembled building blocks and / or the connecting fastener 1100 can define a kit, which can also comprise other building blocks and complementary building blocks 100.

[0177] Figure 21A is a top perspective view, Figure 21B is a diagonal side view, Figure 21C is a side view, Figure 21D is a top view of an assembly 2100 of, together with the connecting fastener 1100, two instances of the building block 100a,b of Figure 14A in a side-to-side facing arrangement in a locked position. Figure 21E is a sectional perspective view of theAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 assembly of Figure 21A taken along line 21E-21E of Figure 21D. As shown, the side face 113 of the second building block 100b can mate with a side face 114 of the first building block 100a.

[0178] Figure 22A is a top side perspective view, Figure 22B is a side view, and Figure 22C is a side end perspective view of an assembly 2100 of two instances of the building block 100a,b of Figure 14A in an angled T-shaped or end-to-side arrangement, a side 213 of the second building block 100b mating with the end 115 of the first building block 100a of the two instances of the building block 100a,b in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. Figure 22D is a sectional perspective view of the assembly 2100 of Figure 22A taken along line 22D-22D of Figure 22A.

[0179] Figure 23 is a top perspective view of the assembly 2100 comprising a plurality of building blocks 100 of Figure 14A with various connections similar to those shown in Figures 21A and 22A in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. As shown, the connections are fixed by the connecting fasteners 1100. With or without the connecting fastener 1100, a first fastener 300,800 (shown, e.g., in Figure 1A) can be configured to lockably receive a mating second fastener 300,800 in any one of multiple rotational or angular positions of the second fastener 300,800 measured, as appropriate, about the axis 301 of the first fastener 300,800. As shown in various aspects throughout, the axis 301,801 of the second fastener 300,800 can be aligned with the axis 301,801 of the first fastener 300,800.

[0180] Figure 24 is a top perspective view of an assembly 2400 comprising two instances of the building blocks 100a,b of Figure 18A and with the building block 100b of the two building blocks 100a,b being loaded with a force F while the building block 100a of the two building blocks 100a,b is held stationary. In some aspects, a given connection between two assemblies (interlocking meshed teeth 450 of separate fasteners 300a,b secured to respective structural members 200 or otherwise defining a portion of the building blocks 100) can withstand a moment of at least 5.967 lbf-ft or 8.25 Nm. The magnetic force between the assemblies can be 1 lb.4.1 oz. or 5.6 N. In some aspects, the minimum moment can be higher by adjusting the material and / or geometry of each fastener 300,800.

[0181] In some aspects, the building block 100 and, more specifically, the fasteners 300,800 disclosed herein can be a toy or can be part of a toy or toy system, e.g., a building block system. In some aspects, the fastener can be a tool for evaluating the motor and / or creativity skills of either children or adults. In some aspects, the building block 100 and, more specifically, the fasteners 300,800 can be used for any fastening or building use. ForAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 example and without limitation, the building block 100 and a system comprising same can be used in homes, Montessori and other schools, STEM / STEAM classes, physics classes, and maker spaces. In some aspects, a plurality of the building blocks 100, including with the connecting fasteners 1100, can be easily shipped across distances and upon arrival at a destination can form a piece of furniture or a frame for temporary housing in an emergency such as, for example and without limitation, after a natural disaster or to house or otherwise assist refugees. Moreover, due to their rigidity and strength, the structures and connections disclosed herein can be self-supporting and need not rely on the surrounding environment to maintain their shape. More generally, the structures and methods disclosed herein facilitate rapid construction and modification at the scale and size of the structures, shapes, and models, which can create intrigue and further stimulate curiosity and creativity on the part of a user.

[0182] A method of assembling the building block 100 can comprise assembling the first fastener 300 to the first side or end such as, for example and without limitation, the side 213,214 of the structural member 200, wherein the first side 213,214 can lie in a first plane. More specifically, the method can comprise receiving the fastener 300 within the cavity 238 or the pair of cavities 238,248, which can be defined in the structural member 200. The method can comprise assembling the fastener 800 to a second side of the structural member 200 such as, for example and without limitation, the end 215,216, wherein the second side can lie in a second plane, which can be angled with respect to the first plane. The method can comprise assembling the fastener 800 within and / or about the structural member 200.

[0183] In some aspects, the method of assembling the building block 100 can comprise inserting the fastener body 600, which can be or can comprise a magnet, into the fastener 300,800. In some aspects, the method can comprise inserting the fastener body 600 into the cavity 480,980 of the respective fastener body 400,900 with the north pole facing outward. In some aspects, the method can comprise inserting the fastener body 600 into the cavity 480,980 of the respective fastener body 400,900 with the south pole facing outward. The method can comprise hiding at least a portion of the fastener body 600 inside the fastener 300,800. The method can comprise retaining or capturing the fastener body 600 inside the fastener 300,800. The method can comprise maintaining a position of a mating fastener 300,800 with respect to the fastener 300,800 with the fastener body 600.

[0184] In some aspects, the method of assembling the building block 100 can comprise positioning flush with a side of the structural member 200 such as, for example and withoutAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 limitation, the side 213,214, one or both of the first end 405 and the second end 406 of the fastener body 400 and / or a first portion 410 thereof.

[0185] A method of using the building block 100 and a system comprising same can comprise engaging the fastener body 400 of the fastener 300 of a first building block 100 with the fastener body 400 of the fastener 300 of a second building block 100, which can comprise magnetically attracting the fastener body 900 to the fastener body 400. The method can comprise the building blocks 100 making an audible clicking or snapping noise and / or tactile clicking or snapping movement upon engagement, which can be satisfying for some users.

[0186] In some aspects, the method can comprise engaging the fastener body 400 of the fastener 300 of the first building block 100 with the fastener body 900 of the fastener 800 of a second building block 100, which can comprise magnetically attracting the fastener body 900 to the fastener body 400. The method can comprise disengaging the fastener 300 or the fastener 800 of the second building block 100 from the fastener 300 of the first building block 100. The method can comprise re-engaging the fastener body 400,900 of the fastener 300 of the first building block 100 with the fastener body 400,900 of the fastener 300,800, which can comprise magnetically attracting the fastener body 400,900 of the fastener 300,800 of the first building block 100 to the fastener body 400,900 of the fastener 300,800 of the second building block 100. The method can comprise attracting to the building block 100 a mating building block 100 comprising a fastener body 600 of the opposite polarity to the fastener body 600 housing in the building block 100. More specifically, the method can comprise magnetically attracting the building blocks 100 to each other. More specifically, the method can comprise attracting the building blocks 100 to each other until the teeth 450 thereof are fully engaged or meshed. In some aspects, the method can comprise the building blocks 100 continuously attracting each other with a magnetic force. In some aspects, the fastener 800 can be oriented in a second angular position with respect to the axis 301 of the fastener 300. The method can comprise orienting the fasteners 300,800 of various connected building blocks 100 in different planes, which can enable the user to build in all three dimensions (i.e., in all X,Y,Z-axis directions) and create complex assemblies of great complexity with many possible configurations.

[0187] In some aspects, the method of using the building block 100 and a system comprising same can comprise passing or extending the connecting fastener 1100 through a first building block 100 and through at least a portion of a second building block 100 to two the two building blocks 100. The method can comprise rotating the connecting fastener 1100 into a locked position to connect the building blocks 100 together. More specifically, theAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 method can comprise engaging the connecting fastener 1100 with one of the fasteners 300,800 and, more specifically, the cavity 480,980 defined in the respective fastener body 400,900 thereof.

[0188] The building blocks 100 can, with the teeth 450 and / or the connecting fastener 1100, be rotatable with respect to each other before and during assembly. The building blocks 100 can, however, be configured to not allow such rotation after assembly and thereby can firmly fix the orientation of the building blocks 100 with respect to each other. The building blocks 100 can be configured to allow rotation or “clocking” between a plurality of fixed assembly angle options.

[0189] Any feature described herein such as, for example and without limitation, the structural member 200, the fastener 300,800, and other components of the building block 100 and their arrangement, can comprise both functional and aesthetic elements, and any feature described as having functional aspects can have or define any one of several aesthetic designs without altering the respective parts’ functions. If aesthetic elements are shown in the drawings or possibly fall within the scope of broader claim elements without being directly claimed, such disclosure or claims should not be interpreted as assigning any function to such aesthetic elements which may therefore be separately protectable.

[0190] The building block 100 or a portion thereof can be formed from any one of a variety of materials. In some aspects, the building block 100 or a portion thereof such as, for example and without limitation, the structural member 200, the fastener 300,800 or the fastener bodies 400,900 thereof, or the spacer 700 can be formed from a wood or wood product, a polymer material, a metal, or a composite material and can minimize weight—to facilitate the ability of the building block 100 to be suspended from another building block 100 in cantilever fashion. In some aspects, the structural member 200 can be formed from a laminated wood product such as, for example and without limitation, plywood. In some aspects, the fastener 300,800 or the fastener bodies 400,900 thereof or the spacer 700 can be formed from a polymer material such as, for example and without limitation, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). In some aspects, the fastener 300,800 or the fastener bodies 400,900 thereof or the spacer 700 can be formed from a resin such as, for example and without limitation, an epoxy resin. In some aspects, the various components can be formed from any other material, any of which can optionally be resistant to soiling and / or easily cleanable. As disclosed herein, the building block 100 and any portion thereof can have no moving parts. More specifically, the various components of the building block 100—and portions of the various components—can be configured to remain stationary with respect toAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 each other during use of the building block 100 or any number of the building blocks 100. For example and without limitation, as shown, the second portion 420,920 of the first fastener body 400,900 can be configured to not rotate with respect to the first portion 410,910 of the first fastener body 400,900—or with respect to any other portion of the building block 100—about the axis 301 of the fastener 300,800 during manipulation of the first fastener 300,800 or the first fastener body 400,900 thereof, even under a load that would tend to cause such rotation were the building block 100 not so configured. As shown, e.g. in Figure 1D, a gap can be defined between various components of the building block 100 (e.g., between the spacer 700 and the cavity 238) to account for manufacturing tolerances and / or assembly considerations such that interaction between the components of the building blocks 100 is not too tight or too loose.

[0191] Various components of the building blocks and associated parts (e.g., the connecting fastener 1100) can be formed from any one or more of a variety of manufacturing processes. For example and without limitation, the these and other components can be fabricated using subtractive manufacturing processes such as machining, forging, stamping; additive manufacturing processes such as three dimensional printing; molding processes such as injection molding, any other forming processes, and / or assembly processes. Halves of all or portions of the building blocks 100 or portions thereof such as, for example and without limitation, the fastener pair 305 can be configured to snap together upon assembly and / or upon engagement with a mating part such as, for example and without limitation, the structural member 200.

[0192] In one exemplary aspect, a fastener can comprise a first fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within a structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the fastener, the fastener being a first fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a second fastener, the plurality of teeth of the first fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the second fastener; and one of a second fastener body and a connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener.

[0193] In a further exemplary aspect, the second portion of the first fastener body need not be configured to move or, more specifically, rotate with respect to the first portion of the first fastener body about the axis of the fastener during manipulation of the first fastener or the first fastener body thereof. In a further exemplary aspect, the plurality of teeth can compriseAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 at least 4 teeth. In a further exemplary aspect, the plurality of teeth can comprise at least 8 teeth. In a further exemplary aspect, the plurality of teeth can comprise between 4 and 8 teeth, inclusive. In a further exemplary aspect, a height-to-width ratio of each of the plurality of teeth can be at least about 0.4. In a further exemplary aspect, a width of each of the plurality of teeth can be variable from a radially inner surface to a radially outer surface. In a further exemplary aspect, a top surface of each of the plurality of teeth can be perpendicular to the axis of the fastener. In a further exemplary aspect, each of the plurality of teeth can be radially symmetric about an axis of the fastener body. In a further exemplary aspect, the first fastener body can comprise a shoulder preventing movement of the second fastener body in an axial direction outward from the first portion to the second portion. In a further exemplary aspect, the first fastener body can define a trapezoidal shape defining a bevel angle when viewed from the side. In a further exemplary aspect, the connecting fastener can comprise a head and a shaft, a length of the head measured in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the shaft being greater than a diameter of the shaft. In a further exemplary aspect, the connecting fastener can further comprise a locking element, a length of the locking element measured in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the shaft being greater than the diameter of the shaft. In a further exemplary aspect, the first fastener body can define a cavity configured to rotatably receive the shaft of the connecting fastener. In a further exemplary aspect, the first fastener body can define a pair of cavities, each cavity of the pair of cavities configured to rotatably receive the shaft of the connecting fastener. In a further exemplary aspect, the first fastener body can define a polygonal shape configured to not rotate in a cavity in a structural member defining the polygonal shape. In a further exemplary aspect, the first fastener body can define a hexagonal shape. In a further exemplary aspect, the second fastener body can comprise a magnet, the magnet configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener through a magnetic force attracting the magnet to the second fastener. In a further exemplary aspect, the magnet can be received within the first fastener body. In a further exemplary aspect, the magnet can comprise neodymium. In a further exemplary aspect, the first fastener can be configured to lockably receive the second fastener in any one of multiple rotational positions of the second fastener measured about the axis of the first fastener, an axis of the second fastener aligned with the axis of the first fastener. In a further exemplary aspect, the side walls can be defined by each of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener extending in a radial direction of the fastener with respect to the axis of the fastener. In a further exemplary aspect, the side walls can be defined by each of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener extending in aAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 substantially axial direction of the fastener with respect to the axis of the fastener, disregarding any draft angles of the side walls.

[0194] In a further exemplary aspect, an assembly can comprise a structural member, the first fastener, the first fastener securably assembled to and protruding from a first surface of the structural member. In a further exemplary aspect, the assembly can further comprise the first fastener received within a first side of the structural member, the first side defining a length of the structural member that is longer than a length of any other side or any end of the structural member. In a further exemplary aspect, the assembly can further comprise the first fastener received within or about a first end of the structural member, the first end defining a length of the structural member that is shorter than a length of any other side or any end of the structural member. In a further exemplary aspect, the assembly can further comprise the first end defining a chamfer. In a further exemplary aspect, the assembly can comprise a building block. In a further exemplary aspect, the assembly can be at least a portion of one of a piece of furniture. In a further exemplary aspect, the assembly can be at least a portion of one of a piece of a frame for temporary housing.

[0195] In a further exemplary aspect, the assembly can further comprise the second fastener, the second fastener securably assembled to and protruding from a second surface of the structural member, the second fastener comprising: a first fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within a structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the second fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the second fastener sized to receive any one of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener, the plurality of teeth of the second fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the first fastener; and the second fastener body configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener; wherein the axis of the second fastener is aligned with the axis of the first fastener, the plurality of teeth of the first fastener extending in opposite directions from the plurality of teeth of the second fastener.

[0196] In a further exemplary aspect, the fastener can further comprise a spacer positioned between the second fastener body of the first fastener and the second fastener body of the second fastener, the spacer maintaining a distance between the second fastener body of the first fastener and the second fastener body of the second fastener such that the second fastener body of the first fastener and the second fastener body of the second fastener are offset from each other in a direction of the axis of the first fastener. In a further exemplary aspect, the second fastener body of the second fastener can comprise a magnet, theAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 magnet configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener through a magnetic force attracting the magnet of the second fastener to the second fastener body of the first fastener.

[0197] In a further exemplary aspect, a system can comprise a first assembly comprising a first structural member; and the first fastener, the first fastener body securably assembled to the first structural member, and a second assembly comprising a second structural member; and a third fastener comprising a first fastener body securably assembled to the second structural member, the first fastener body of the third fastener comprising: a first portion configured to be received within the second structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the third fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the third fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a fourth fastener, the plurality of teeth of the third fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the fourth fastener; and one of a) a second fastener body of the third fastener and b) a connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the fourth fastener with respect to the third fastener.

[0198] In a further exemplary aspect, the system can further comprise the first assembly further comprising a fifth fastener comprising a first fastener body securably assembled to the second structural member, the first fastener body of the fifth fastener comprising a first portion configured to be received within the second structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the fifth fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the fifth fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a sixth fastener, the plurality of teeth of the fifth fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the sixth fastener; and one of a) a second fastener body of the fifth fastener and b) a second connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the sixth fastener with respect to the fifth fastener.

[0199] In a further exemplary aspect, the system can further comprise the second fastener body of the first fastener and the second fastener body of the second fastener comprising a magnet.

[0200] In a further exemplary aspect, a method of using the system can comprise engaging the first fastener body of the first fastener with the first fastener body of the third fastener, the first fastener body of the third fastener being oriented in a first angular position with respect to an axis of the first fastener, engaging the first fastener body of the first fastener with theAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 first fastener body of the third fastener comprising magnetically attracting the second fastener body of the first fastener to the second fastener body of the third fastener; disengaging the third fastener from the first fastener; and re-engaging the first fastener body of the first fastener with the first fastener body of the third fastener, the third fastener body being oriented in a second angular position with respect to the axis of the first fastener, the first fastener body of the third fastener in the second angular position being angled with respect to the first fastener body of the third fastener in the second angular position, re- engaging the first fastener body of the first fastener with the first fastener body of the third fastener comprising magnetically attracting the second fastener body of the first fastener to the second fastener body of the third fastener. In a further exemplary aspect, a method of using the system can comprise applying a force in cantilever fashion to the second structural member while fixing a position of the first structural member; and, notwithstanding the application of the force, the second structural member not moving with respect to the first structural member.

[0201] In a further exemplary aspect, a method of assembly can comprise assembling the first fastener of claim 1 to a first side of a structural member, the first side lying in a first plane, the first fastener body securably assembled to the first side of the structural member; and assembling a third fastener to a second side of the structural member, the second side lying in a second plane angled with respect to the first plane, the third fastener comprising a first fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within or about the second side of the structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the third fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the third fastener sized to receive any one of the plurality of teeth of a fourth fastener, the plurality of teeth of the fourth fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the third fastener; and a one of a second fastener body of the third fastener and a connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the fourth fastener with respect to the third fastener. In a further exemplary aspect, the method can further comprise assembling a fifth fastener to a one of the first side, the second side, and an end of the structural member, the fifth fastener comprising: a first fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within or about the one of the first side, the second side, and the end of the structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the fifth fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the fifth fastener sized to receive any one of the plurality of teeth of a sixth fastener, the plurality ofAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 teeth of the sixth fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the fifth fastener; and a one of a) a second fastener body of the fifth fastener and b) a second connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the sixth fastener with respect to the fifth fastener. In a further exemplary aspect, the method can comprise the second fastener body of the first fastener and the second fastener body of the third fastener comprising a magnet.

[0202] In a further exemplary aspect, the first fastener can be configured to lockably engage with the second fastener received within a second structural member. In a further exemplary aspect, the first fastener can be configured to further comprise the second fastener body configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener.

[0203] In another exemplary aspect, a fastener can comprise a first fastener body defining a plurality of teeth configured to receive and lockably engage with any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a second fastener; and one of a second fastener body and a connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener.

[0204] One should note that conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless expressly stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain aspects include, while other aspects do not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and / or steps are in any way required for one or more particular aspects or that one or more particular aspects necessarily comprise logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and / or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular aspect.

[0205] It should be emphasized that the above-described aspects are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above- described aspect(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. Further, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover any combinations and sub-combinations of all elements, features, and aspects discussed above. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by the present disclosure.

Claims

Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 CLAIMS That which is claimed is:

1. A fastener comprising: a first fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within a structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the fastener, the fastener being a first fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a second fastener, the plurality of teeth of the first fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the second fastener; and one of a second fastener body and a connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener.

2. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the second portion of the first fastener body is configured to not rotate with respect to the first portion of the first fastener body about the axis of the fastener during manipulation of the first fastener or the first fastener body thereof.

3. The fastener of claim 2, wherein the plurality of teeth comprises at least 4 teeth.

4. The fastener of claim 3, wherein the plurality of teeth comprises at least 8 teeth.

5. The fastener of claim 3, wherein the plurality of teeth comprises between 4 and 8 teeth, inclusive.

6. The fastener of claim 3, wherein a height-to-width ratio of each of the plurality of teeth is at least about 0.

4.

7. The fastener of claim 3, wherein a width of each of the plurality of teeth is variable from a radially inner surface to a radially outer surface.

8. The fastener of claim 3, wherein a top surface of each of the plurality of teeth is perpendicular to the axis of the fastener.Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 9. The fastener of claim 3, wherein each of the plurality of teeth is radially symmetric about an axis of the fastener body.

10. The fastener of claim 3, wherein the first fastener body comprises a shoulder preventing movement of the second fastener body in an axial direction outward from the first portion to the second portion.

11. The fastener of claim 2, wherein the first fastener body defines a trapezoidal shape defining a bevel angle when viewed from the side.

12. The fastener of claim 1, further comprising the connecting fastener, the connecting fastener comprising a head and a shaft, a length of the head measured in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the shaft being greater than a diameter of the shaft.

13. The fastener of claim 12, wherein the connecting fastener further comprises a locking element, a length of the locking element measured in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the shaft being greater than the diameter of the shaft.

14. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the first fastener body defines a cavity configured to rotatably receive a shaft of the connecting fastener.

15. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the first fastener body defines a pair of cavities, each cavity of the pair of cavities configured to rotatably receive a shaft of the connecting fastener.

16. The fastener of claim 1, wherein the first fastener body defines a polygonal shape configured to not rotate in a cavity in a structural member defining the polygonal shape.

17. The fastener of claim 16, wherein the first fastener body defines a hexagonal shape.

18. The fastener of claim 2, further comprising the second fastener body, wherein the second fastener body comprises a magnet, the magnet configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener through a magnetic force attracting the magnet to the second fastener.

19. The fastener of claim 18, wherein the magnet is received within the first fastener body.

20. The fastener of claim 18, wherein the magnet comprises neodymium.Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 21. The fastener of claim 2, wherein the first fastener is configured to lockably receive the second fastener in any one of multiple rotational positions of the second fastener measured about the axis of the first fastener, an axis of the second fastener aligned with the axis of the first fastener.

22. The fastener of claim 2, wherein side walls defined by each of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener extend in a radial direction of the fastener with respect to the axis of the fastener.

23. The fastener of claim 22, wherein side walls defined by each of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener extend in a substantially axial direction of the fastener with respect to the axis of the fastener, disregarding any draft angles of the side walls.

24. An assembly comprising: a structural member; and the first fastener of claim 2, the first fastener securably assembled to and protruding from a first surface of the structural member.

25. The assembly of claim 24, wherein the first fastener is received within a first side of the structural member, the first side defining a length of the structural member that is longer than a length of any other side or any end of the structural member.

26. The assembly of claim 24, wherein the first fastener is received within or about a first end of the structural member, the first end defining a length of the structural member that is shorter than a length of any other side or any end of the structural member.

27. The assembly of claim 26, wherein the first end defines a chamfer.

28. The assembly of claim 24, wherein the assembly is a building block.

29. The assembly of claim 24, wherein the assembly is at least a portion of one of a piece of furniture and a frame for temporary housing.

30. The assembly of claim 24, further comprising the second fastener, the second fastener securably assembled to and protruding from a second surface of the structural member, the second fastener comprising: a first fastener body comprising:Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 a first portion configured to be received within a structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the second fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the second fastener sized to receive any one of the plurality of teeth of the first fastener, the plurality of teeth of the second fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the first fastener; and the second fastener body configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener; wherein the axis of the second fastener is aligned with the axis of the first fastener, the plurality of teeth of the first fastener extending in opposite directions from the plurality of teeth of the second fastener.

31. The fastener of claim 30, further comprising a spacer positioned between the second fastener body of the first fastener and the second fastener body of the second fastener, the spacer maintaining a distance between the second fastener body of the first fastener and the second fastener body of the second fastener such that the second fastener body of the first fastener and the second fastener body of the second fastener are offset from each other in a direction of the axis of the first fastener.

32. The fastener of claim 30, wherein the second fastener body of the second fastener comprises a magnet, the magnet configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener through a magnetic force attracting the magnet of the second fastener to the second fastener body of the first fastener.

33. A system comprising: a first assembly comprising: a first structural member; and the first fastener of claim 2, the first fastener body securably assembled to the first structural member, and a second assembly comprising: a second structural member; and a third fastener comprising: a first fastener body securably assembled to the second structural member, the first fastener body of the third fastener comprising:Attorney Docket #: 84998-2010 a first portion configured to be received within the second structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the third fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the third fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a fourth fastener, the plurality of teeth of the third fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the fourth fastener; and one of a) a second fastener body of the third fastener and b) a connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the fourth fastener with respect to the third fastener.

34. The system of claim 33, wherein the first assembly further comprises a fifth fastener comprising: a first fastener body securably assembled to the second structural member, the first fastener body of the fifth fastener comprising: a first portion configured to be received within the second structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the fifth fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the fifth fastener sized to receive any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a sixth fastener, the plurality of teeth of the fifth fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the sixth fastener; and one of a) a second fastener body of the fifth fastener and b) a second connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the sixth fastener with respect to the fifth fastener.

35. The system of claim 33, wherein each of the second fastener body of the first fastener and the second fastener body of the second fastener comprises a magnet.

36. A method of using the system of claim 35, the method comprising: engaging the first fastener body of the first fastener with the first fastener body of the third fastener, the first fastener body of the third fastener being oriented in a first angular position with respect to an axis of the first fastener, engaging the firstAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 fastener body of the first fastener with the first fastener body of the third fastener comprising magnetically attracting the second fastener body of the first fastener to the second fastener body of the third fastener; disengaging the third fastener from the first fastener; and re-engaging the first fastener body of the first fastener with the first fastener body of the third fastener, the third fastener body being oriented in a second angular position with respect to the axis of the first fastener, the first fastener body of the third fastener in the second angular position being angled with respect to the first fastener body of the third fastener in the second angular position, re-engaging the first fastener body of the first fastener with the first fastener body of the third fastener comprising magnetically attracting the second fastener body of the first fastener to the second fastener body of the third fastener.

37. A method of using the system of claim 36, the method comprising: applying a force in cantilever fashion to the second structural member while fixing a position of the first structural member; and, notwithstanding the application of the force, the second structural member not moving with respect to the first structural member.

38. A method of assembly comprising: assembling the first fastener of claim 1 to a first side of a structural member, the first side lying in a first plane, the first fastener body securably assembled to the first side of the structural member; and assembling a third fastener to a second side of the structural member, the second side lying in a second plane angled with respect to the first plane, the third fastener comprising: a first fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within or about the second side of the structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the third fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the third fastener sized to receive any one of the plurality of teeth of a fourth fastener, the plurality of teeth of the fourth fastenerAttorney Docket #: 84998-2010 configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the third fastener; and a one of a second fastener body of the third fastener and a connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the fourth fastener with respect to the third fastener.

39. The method of claim 38, further comprising: assembling a fifth fastener to a one of the first side, the second side, and an end of the structural member, the fifth fastener comprising: a first fastener body comprising: a first portion configured to be received within or about the one of the first side, the second side, and the end of the structural member; and a second portion defining a plurality of teeth extending in a direction parallel to an axis of the fifth fastener, a space defined between each pair of adjacent teeth of the plurality of teeth of the fifth fastener sized to receive any one of the plurality of teeth of a sixth fastener, the plurality of teeth of the sixth fastener configured to lockably engage with the plurality of teeth of the fifth fastener; and a one of a) a second fastener body of the fifth fastener and b) a second connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the sixth fastener with respect to the fifth fastener.

40. The method of claim 38, wherein each of the second fastener body of the first fastener and the second fastener body of the third fastener comprises a magnet.

41. The first fastener of claim 1, wherein the first fastener is configured to lockably engage with the second fastener received within a second structural member; and further comprising the second fastener body configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener.

42. A fastener comprising: a first fastener body defining a plurality of teeth configured to receive and lockably engage with any one of a plurality of teeth defined in a second fastener; and one of a second fastener body and a connecting fastener configured to maintain a position of the second fastener with respect to the first fastener.

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