Modular block for a modular toy system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a modular block for a modular toy system, the modular block comprising at least one among a composite connector and a second connector corresponding to the composite connector, wherein the composite connector comprises at least a horizontal connector and at least a vertical connector, and wherein the second connector comprises at least a second horizontal connector, corresponding to the horizontal connector, or at least a second vertical connector, corresponding to the vertical connector.

Description

[0001] Modular block for a modular toy system

[0002] Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a modular block. In particular, the present invention relates to a modular block for a system, preferably a toy system. The modular block may be used, in combination with other modular blocks, to realize complex structures within the modular system.

[0004] Background

[0005] In the field of modular toys and modular toy systems, the presence of blocks and / or modular blocks that may be combined and / or connected is ubiquitous in the market. Of particular interest are toy systems based on modular blocks that, by allowing the connection of said blocks, allow the creation of larger structure of modular blocks, according to a variety of possible personalizing features and according to a variety of possible connection mechanisms.

[0006] US 10,646,791 B2 describes a toy building brick system including a brick which has an outer surface including a plurality of outer walls. A male peg is attached to one of the outer walls. The male peg is configured to engage a female connector and includes a post having a terminal end. The terminal end has an outer peripheral edge. The outer peripheral edge has a notch positioned therein. The notch faces an adjacent edge of the outer wall attached to the male peg to prevent adjacent male pegs of adjacent bricks from abutting in such a manner that the male pegs bias the adjacent bricks apart from each other.

[0007] US 2021 / 0101087 Al describes a utility model. The utility model discloses a building block and track building block toy including four of single components and eight of magnetic spheres; each one of single components comprises a first connecting rod, a second connecting rod and a third connecting rod; the first connecting rod, the second connecting rod, and the third connecting rod are sequentially connected to form a "C" shape; a first insertion portion is disposed on an end of the first connecting rod, and another one of first insertion portion is disposed on an end of the third connecting rod; second insertion portions extend vertically at both ends of the second connecting rod; each of the second insertion portions is provided with one of inserting holes. A plurality of the building blocks are able to be adsorbed together by magnetic spheres and assembled into various shapes. WO 2013 / 118238 Al relates to a block that has a simple shape by itself but is capable of providing various three-dimensional structures through the devising of connected states. The block according to the present invention is a regular hexahedron block in which a projection projecting from a surface of one block is fit into a recess disposed in a surface of another block so that at least two blocks can be coupled with each other. On one surface of the hexahedron, one protrusion that has a square-shaped cross section is formed at a center of one segment which is obtained by dividing the flat surface into four equal parts. On the other three surfaces of the hexahedron, the recess into which the projection can be fit is formed at the center of each of the two to four segments which is obtained by dividing the flat surface into the four equal parts.

[0008] KR 101,358,638 Bl describes a cube block, to be used as a toy. The cube block is assembled from paper. Fasteners cavities may be present on the faces of the cubic block and may allow for the connection of cubes by means of fasteners. In other words, the utilization of fasteners is required in order to provide a means for connecting cubes, vertically and / or horizontally.

[0009] WO 2013 / 055039 Al relates to a toy block, more specifically to a coupling structure for the toy block. The toy block of the present invention comprises a coupling groove or a coupling protrusion on one or more surfaces of a polyhedron block module, wherein the coupling groove is formed with a tubular groove which is formed at a constant width and depth along the circumference of a pillar, and the coupling protrusion includes a fixing part which is inserted and fixed at one end of a fixing groove of the coupling protrusion formed to be identical to the coupling groove, and a tubular protrusion unit which is protruded to the surface of the module.

[0010] US 5,826,394 A discloses a hollow block (e.g. a rectangular prism), which preferably has six perpendicular faces. Each face preferably has a wall with a particular thickness. An opening is provided in at least a particular one of the faces, and preferably in all six faces. A hollow beam (e.g. a rectangular prism) preferably has six perpendicular faces. Each face is preferably defined by a wall with a particular thickness. An opening is provided in at least a particular one of the faces, and preferably in the four faces defining a closed loop, in the beam. Substantially parallel snaps extend from the other two beam walls and have at their outer ends portions shaped to facilitate insertion of such snaps into the opening in the particular face of the block, retention of the snaps by the inner surface of the face defining the opening and removal of the snaps from the opening. Such portions are shaped for the beams to be pulled, peeled or bent from the block. When the block has an opening in each of its six faces, snaps from different beams can extend into the six different openings in six different directions in the block without any interference in the block from the snaps in the six beams. In this way, complex structures can be formed from the blocks and the beams. Other structures such as vehicle ramps, building roofs, awnings and corbels can be disposed in a cooperative relationship with a structure formed from the blocks and the beams.

[0011] US 3,822,569 A describes a set of five different toy building elements, each of which is formed as two, three or four mutually connected side walls of a hollow cube. The elements may be combined with each other or with duplicate blocks in rectilinearly aligned relation to form a total of 977 different configurations of pairs of elements.

[0012] WO1996 / 009869 Al discloses a system of stacking blocks comprises box-shaped blocks whose upper side is provided with one or more coupling knobs in a uniform pattern with a mutual firm modular distance, and whose underside is provided with complementary coupling means, so that the stacking blocks can be coupled together. According to the invention, the coupling knobs, at least partly, define a rotationally symmetrical surface which has an upwardly rounded or tapering shape to provide guide faces for the complementary coupling means. The largest tranverse dimension of the surface of a block having just one coupling knob is smaller than or equal to the difference between the corresponding diameter of the coupling knobs and twice the modular distance. This provides a stacking block system which, to a greater degree than known before, involves different degrees of difficulty for the positioning and orientation of the blocks during stacking, depending upon the number of coupling knobs on the stacking blocks.

[0013] As disclosed in DE 10,057,617 Al, in a modular system with plug-in building blocks, which are designed as hollow cubes and have open, square side surfaces, adjacent building blocks are connected by plug-in connector elements with an upper and a lower section. The two sections each have two parallel, spaced-apart beams. The beams of different sections are arranged at right angles to each other and each delimit the circumference of the plug-in element. Both sections have a common, circumferential, raised edge that serves as a stop for inserting the plug-in element into the hollow cube. In addition, a variety of special building blocks and special plug-in elements are proposed.

[0014] US 4,129,960 A describes interlocking educational and recreational blocks in three- dimensional right rectangular form adapted to be connected vertically or laterally to form larger structures. Each block is characterized by a plurality of projecting connecting members on one surface and corresponding mating recessed connecting members on the remaining faces of the block. When precisely manufactured, the interlocking blocks are especially adapted for use in teaching the metric system and other mathematical concepts to school children and others. The modular block and modular blocks systems presented in the prior art may exhibit several drawbacks, unnecessary complexity, unsustainability and may not be optimized for being used comfortably and / or easily by children.

[0015] As an example, several different coupling and / or connecting mechanisms between blocks may be implemented, e.g. based on snapping, on notches being present on peripheral edges of male connectors, on magnetic elements, on external fasteners, on insertable elements, et cetera.

[0016] The coupling and / or connecting mechanisms presented in the prior art may allow stable connection and / or coupling between blocks. However, these mechanisms may also involve coordinated manual actions that may not be easily achieved by children. Furthermore, and even more relevantly, these mechanisms may not be configured to assist the user, e.g. children, or even to be self-guiding, in achieving coupling and / or connection between blocks.

[0017] The sometimes-high level of complexity exhibited by the blocks and the coupling and / or connection between blocks in the prior art may make toy systems based on blocks expensive.

[0018] Further, the connections mechanism of prior art modular blocks may not allow for the structural stability of large assemblies of connected modular blocks.

[0019] There may therefore be a need for a modular block that allows, for instance, for manageable complexity, for sustainability, for optimization as regards comfortable and / or easy use by children, for stable connections in multiple directions, for structural stability of large assemblies of modular blocks and / or for guided connections.

[0020] Summary

[0021] In light of the above, the present invention alleviates at least some of the shortcomings of prior-art technologies.

[0022] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a modular block, the modular block comprising at least one among a composite connector and a second connector corresponding to the composite connector. The composite connector comprises at least a horizontal connector and at least a vertical connector. The second connector comprises at least a second horizontal connector, corresponding to the horizontal connector, or at least a second vertical connector, corresponding to the vertical connector.

[0023] It will be understood that "vertical" can mean parallel to the weight of an object, wherein the weight of the object is the force acting on the object, preferably in a terrestrial reference frame, due to acceleration of gravity. It will be understood that any word making use of a lexeme relating to "vertical", e.g. "vertically", "verticality", can be understood according to the definition of "vertical" given above.

[0024] It will be further understood that "top" of an object and "bottom" of the same object can be part of a vertical axis going through at least a part of the object, wherein a direction going from "top" to "bottom" follows the direction of the weight of the object.

[0025] It will further be understood that "horizontal" can mean perpendicular to vertical. For example, a horizontal axis is any axis comprised in a horizontal plane, wherein the horizontal plane is perpendicular to a vertical axis. It will be understood that any word making use of a lexeme relating to "horizontal", e.g. "horizontally", "horizontality", can be understood according to the definition of "horizontal" given above.

[0026] It will be further understood that the embodiments presented in this specification with regard to the present invention refer to the present invention in a base orientation, wherein, within the base orientation of the invention, the terms "vertical", "horizontal", any word making use of a relating to "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and / or "bottom" are used according to the definitions given above.

[0027] It will be further understood that, should the orientation of the present invention deviate from the base orientation of the present invention, the terms "vertical", "horizontal", any word making use of a lexeme relating to "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and / or "bottom" are to be understood as rotated and / or translated according to the deviation from the base orientation of the present invention.

[0028] The horizontal connector may comprise a receiving receptacle, comprising an essentially trapezoidal cut-out, the receiving receptacle featuring an essentially planar base of the receiving receptacle, the planar base of the receiving receptacle being horizontal. The second horizontal connector may comprise a horizontally protruding tab with a rounded projection essentially matching the trapezoidal cut-out of the receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector. The horizontally protruding tab of the second horizontal connector may be configured to engage in a snug and / or loose fit, by vertical insertion, the receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector, wherein said horizontally protruding tab and said receiving receptacle may be engaged in a horizontal connection.

[0029] The modular block may be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of another modular block to create a horizontal assembly of modular blocks, by means of vertically adhering the essentially planar base of the engaged receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector of the modular block to the corresponding planar surface of the protruding tab of the second horizontal connector of the other modular block, wherein the modular blocks in the horizontal assembly of modular blocks may be connected by means of a horizontal connection.

[0030] It may be an advantage of the present invention that a horizontal assembly of modular blocks may be achieved simply based on a stacking mechanism. In other words, horizontal connections may be achieved by relying on gravity. Prior art technologies may rely on other connection mechanisms, involving, e.g., clicking, snapping, fastening, etc. The present invention may therefore provide a user, for example a playing child, with an easy way to create a horizontal assembly of modular blocks.

[0031] The horizontal connector may be designed to be as wide as possible within the constraints of the modular block, providing load bearing capacity and rotation stability, while avoiding the complexity of multiple connectors.

[0032] Furthermore, the connections envisaged by embodiments of the present invention may be easier to manufacture from natural materials, as less precision may be needed as compared with, e.g., snap fits. At the same time, pieces of a modular block, especially the connectors, according to the present invention may be more durable.

[0033] The modular block in the horizontal assembly of modular blocks may configured to be horizontally locked to the other modular block in the horizontal assembly of modular blocks, by means of the horizontal interlocking of the engaged receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector of the modular block and the protruding tab of the second horizontal connector of the other modular block.

[0034] The vertical connector may comprise an essentially half-rectangular-cuboid recess. The half-rectangular-cuboid recess may comprise three faces of a rectangular cuboid, said three faces sharing a vertex of the half rectangular cuboid. One of said three faces may comprise an essentially planar base of the half-rectangular-cuboid recess, said planar base being horizontal and preferably square. The other two faces of said three faces may comprise curved surfaces, said curved surfaces having a concavity that points to the inner portion of the half-rectangular-cuboid recess.

[0035] The curved surfaces may transition, along directions essentially perpendicular to the planar base of the half-rectangular-cuboid recess, into said planar base. The curved surfaces may transition, along directions essentially parallel to the planar base of the half-rectangular- cuboid recess, into each other. The planar base of the half-rectangular-cuboid recess and the curved surfaces may define a receiving cavity of the vertical connector.

[0036] The second vertical connector may comprise a vertically protruding tab with a rounded projection essentially matching the receiving cavity of the vertical connector.

[0037] The vertically protruding tab of the second vertical connector may be configured to engage in a snug and / or loose fit, by vertical adherence, the receiving cavity of the vertical connector wherein said vertical protruding tab and said receiving receptacle may be engaged in a vertical connection.

[0038] The modular block may be configured to be vertically placed on top of another modular block to create a vertical assembly of modular blocks, by means of vertically adhering the planar base of the receiving cavity of the vertical connector to the corresponding planar surface of the vertically protruding tab of the second vertical connector, wherein the modular blocks in the vertical assembly of modular blocks may be connected by means of a vertical connection.

[0039] It may be an advantage of the present invention that a vertical assembly of modular blocks may be achieved simply based on a stacking mechanism. In other words, vertical connections may be achieved by relying on gravity. Prior art technologies may rely on other connection mechanisms, involving, e.g., clicking, snapping, fastening, etc. The present invention may therefore provide a user, for example a playing child, with an easy way to create a vertical assembly of modular blocks.

[0040] It may be an advantage of the present invention to allow for both horizontal assemblies of modular blocks and of vertical assemblies of modular blocks. In simple words, it may be advantageous to expand an assembly of modular blocks both horizontally and vertically. Furthermore, it may be advantageous to expand an assembly of modular blocks both horizontally and vertically, based on a stacking mechanism. Thanks to both horizontal and vertical expansion creative and engaging assembly of modular blocks may be created. An assembly of modular blocks may be used, e.g. by a playing child, to represent a castle, a farm, a city, and / or the like.

[0041] The vertical assembly of modular blocks may be configured to self-center the vertical assembly of modular blocks, by means of assisting, thanks to the shape of the curved surfaces of the receiving cavity comprised in the vertical connector, and of the corresponding curved surfaces of the vertically protruding tab comprised in the second vertical connector, a transition between a misaligned and / or incomplete match to a definite position of the modular blocks in the vertical assembly of modular blocks, wherein the definite position involves a close fit between said receiving cavity and said protruding tab.

[0042] In other words, a vertical assembly of modular blocks may, in a first instance, be characterized by a misaligned and / or incomplete vertical stacking of modular blocks within the vertical assembly of modular blocks. For example, a horizontal offset and / or vertical offset and / or rotational offset from correct alignment may exist within the vertical assembly. The offset may be of less than 12 mm, preferably less than 8 mm, more preferably less than 4 mm. This may, for example, be due to a playing child realizing, in a first instance, the vertical assembly of modular blocks. In fact, it may be that the playing child may not possess enough dexterity to achieve a correct alignment within the vertical assembly in the first instance. Nevertheless, the shapes of the connectors, said connectors enabling the vertical stacking of modular blocks in a vertical assembly of blocks, may be configured such that the vertical assembly of blocks is 'pulled' into a right alignment, both horizontally and vertically. This may be achieved simply because of the action of gravity. Additionally, or alternatively, this may be achieved by a small perturbation of the vertical assembly of modular blocks, such as a perturbation imparted by the playing child in a second instance, for example a minor movement or the addition of another modular block to the vertical assembly of modular block. Once a correct alignment of the of the vertical assembly of modular blocks is achieved, a modular block within the vertical assembly of modular blocks may not be moved or displaced horizontally by more than a tolerance of the vertical connection.

[0043] In other words, a modular block, according to an embodiment of the present invention, may be configured to assist a user and or even to be self-guiding, in achieving a complete vertical connection with another modular block and a complete alignment of a vertical assembly of modular blocks. This may be particularly advantageous when the user is a child, preferably a playing child. A vertical assembly of modular blocks, furthermore, may offer stability when the vertical assembly of modular blocks leans or is subject to accidental nudges. Such an advantage may not be provided by conventional construction blocks and may be instrumental for interactive play.

[0044] Furthermore, the self-centering capabilities of a modular block according to an embodiment of the present invention may be advantageous in making vertical assembly of modular blocks stable, when the vertical assembly of modular blocks are realized on non-rigid surfaces, for example a carpet. This may be the case for a playing child realizing the vertical assembly.

[0045] The horizontal connection may be configured to bear loads essentially lower than 50 kg, preferably lower than 40 kg, preferably lower than 25 kg.

[0046] The vertical connection may be configured to bear loads lower than 170 kg, preferably lower than 140 kg, most preferably lower than 110 kg.

[0047] The protruding tab of the second horizontal connector may be configured to protrude out by essentially less than 15 mm, preferably by less than 9 mm, more preferably by less than 7 mm.

[0048] The depth of the receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector in a direction essentially perpendicular of the planar base of said receiving receptacle may measure less than 15 mm, preferably by less than 9 mm, more preferably by less than 7 mm.

[0049] The tolerance of the horizontal connection may be lower than 1 mm, preferably lower than 0.5 mm, more preferably lower than 0.2 mm.

[0050] The side of the preferably square base planar base of the half-rectangular-cuboid recess may be in a range between 2 and 10 mm, preferably in a range between 4 and 8 mm, more preferably in a range between 5 and 7 mm.

[0051] Within a projection of the receiving cavity of the vertical connector onto a plane comprising the essentially planar base of the receiving cavity, the ratio between the fraction of said projection, comprised in the essentially planar base of the receiving cavity, and the fraction of said projection, comprised in the curved surfaces of the receiving cavity, may be comprised in a range from 1 / 8 and 2, preferably between 1 / 4 and 1, more preferably between 1 / 3 and 41 / 50. Within a projection of the receiving cavity of the vertical connector onto a plane perpendicular to the essentially planar base of the receiving cavity, the fraction of said projection, comprised in the curved surfaces of the receiving cavity, may be a quarter of a circle with radius smaller than 15 mm, preferably smaller than 8 mm, more preferably smaller than 5 mm.

[0052] The vertically protruding tab of the second vertical connector may be configured to protrude by less than 15 mm, preferably by less than 8 mm, more preferably by less than 5 mm.

[0053] The depth of the receiving cavity of the vertical connector in a direction essentially perpendicular of the planar base of said receiving cavity may measure less than 15 mm, preferably by less than 8 mm, more preferably by less than 5 mm.

[0054] The tolerance of the vertical connection may be lower than 1 mm, preferably lower than 0.5 mm, more preferably lower than 0.2 mm.

[0055] It will be understood that the vertically protruding tab may be referred to as a "foot" of a modular block. Said "foot", and particularly a plurality of "feet", may lead to the advantage of stability of a modular block or of an assembly thereof on non-rigid surfaces, e.g. a carpet. This may not be the case for conventional modular blocks for toy systems, featuring essentially flat bottom surfaces and bases.

[0056] The modular block may comprise faces, wherein said faces may comprise customizable surfaces.

[0057] A customization of the customizable surfaces may be defined by a user.

[0058] A customization of the customizable surfaces may comprise a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries, and / or engravings and / or painting and / or glued printed paper and / or felt and / or the like.

[0059] For instance, a customization may comprise apertures in the shape of ordinary windows, apertures in the shape of glass-stained windows, of a passage, of a door, of ladder hole, a covering, such as paper or felt, mimicking grass and / or water and / or flower beds. Engravings may represent textures, such as a brick wall, or decorative patterns. Engravings may be personalized engravings, such as a name. In one embodiment, the modular block may comprise a basic block, wherein the basic block may comprise an essentially hollow body, wherein the hollow body comprises faces. The peripheral section of a face of the basic block may comprise a composite connector.

[0060] The half-rectangular-cuboid recess, comprised in the vertical connector, may comprise a hole in correspondence to the vertex shared by the three faces comprised in the half- rectangular-cuboid recess.

[0061] The hole may be configured to allow, e.g., electrification wires to pass through the hole. The electrification may be used, for example, for lighting and / or for motorized parts and / or for sound units, such as for atmospheric sound production.

[0062] The peripheral section of a face of the basic block, preferably opposite to the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector, may comprise a second connector.

[0063] The basic block may comprise an essentially hollow, preferably cubic, body.

[0064] Modular blocks described in the prior art may not allow for hollow spaces within their volume. It may be advantageous, with regard to embodiments of the previous invention, to exploit a hollow volume comprised by the hollow body of a modular block. For instance, children, when playing with the block, may utilize the hollow volume comprised by the hollow body of a modular block as playing space. For example, a child may utilize said hollow volume as a playing ground for figurines, toy furniture and / or an external toy.

[0065] The hollow body comprised by a modular block may represent a room. The room can be furnished, e.g. with fixed / built-in elements or separate ones.

[0066] A side of a face of the essentially hollow, cubic body may have a length between 20 mm and 220 mm, preferably between 80 mm and 120 mm, more preferably between 103 mm and 105 mm.

[0067] The basic block may comprise an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid body.

[0068] The extension of said basic block comprising an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid body, in a direction essentially perpendicular to the face of the basic block, comprising a composite connector, may be a fraction or multiple of the extension of a basic block comprising an essentially hollow, cubic body, in said direction. The extension of said basic block comprising an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid body, in one or more directions essentially parallel to the face of the basic block comprising a composite connector, may be a fraction or multiple of the extension of a basic block comprising an essentially hollow, cubic body, in said direction.

[0069] It will be understood that in an assembly of modular blocks comprising, e.g., two or more basic blocks, the connectors may repeat on a consistent grid, regardless of the shape of the modular block, thus maintaining compatibility across all of the modular blocks. In other words, vertical connectors and second vertical connectors may be present at the vertices of the top and bottom faces, respectively, of any modular block in the assembly. The horizontal connectors may repeat along the edges of the top faces. The consistent grid may be based on the size of a cubic basic block.

[0070] The extension of said basic block comprising an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid body, in a direction essentially perpendicular to the face of the basic block, comprising a composite connector, may be a fraction or multiple of the extension of a basic block comprising an essentially hollow, cubic body, in said direction, and the extension of said basic block comprising an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid body, in one or more directions essentially parallel to the face of the basic block comprising a composite connector, may be a fraction or multiple of the extension of the basic block comprising an essentially hollow, cubic body, in said direction.

[0071] The hollow body comprised by a modular block may represent a large room, such as a hall. The basic block may comprise an essentially hollow, semi- or quarter-cylindrical body.

[0072] The modular block may, for example, represent a round tower, a part thereof, a silo, and / or a part thereof.

[0073] The composite connector of the basic block may comprise a four-connection composite connector comprising four horizontal connectors and four vertical connectors. This may not be the case for a basic block comprising an essentially hollow, semi- or quarter-cylindrical body. This may also not be the case for shapes of the basic block that do not comprise all corners and / or edges of the basic block, and / or for basic blocks for which it is unpractical to have a four-connection composite connector comprising four horizontal connectors and four vertical connectors.

[0074] Each of said horizontal connectors may lie at the middle point of each side of the peripheral section of the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector. Each of said vertical connectors may lie at the vertices of the peripheral section of the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector.

[0075] The second connector of the basic block may comprise a four-connection second connector, comprising four correspondence second vertical connectors.

[0076] Each of said second vertical connectors may lie at the vertices of the peripheral section of the face of the basic block comprising the correspondence connector, said face being preferably opposite to the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector.

[0077] A basic block may be configured to be vertically placed on top of another basic block to create a vertical assembly of basic blocks, by means of engaging the second connector comprised in the basic block to the composite connector comprised in the other basic block. Said vertical assembly of basic blocks may configured to self-center said vertical assembly of basic blocks, by means of assisting, thanks to the shape of the curved surfaces of the receiving cavities comprised in the composite connector of the basic block, and of the corresponding curved surfaces of the protruding tab comprised in the second connector of the other basic block, a transition between a misaligned and / or incomplete match to a definite position of the modular blocks in the vertical assembly of basic blocks.

[0078] The vertical connection between said stacked basic blocks may be configured to bear loads lower than 170 kg, preferably lower than 140 kg, most preferably lower than 110 kg.

[0079] The faces of the basic block may comprise customizable surfaces.

[0080] A customizable surface may comprise an essentially planar surface.

[0081] A customizable surface may comprise an essentially square, chamfered aperture.

[0082] A customization of the customizable surface may comprise a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries.

[0083] A customization of the customizable surface comprises one or more engravings and / or the like.

[0084] The customization of the customizable surface may be defined by a user.

[0085] In one embodiment, the modular block may comprise a roof block. The roof block may comprise a hollow, essentially polyhedral body, wherein the peripheral section of a face of said polyhedral body may comprise a second connector.

[0086] Said face of said essentially polyhedral body may be preferably a square face.

[0087] The roof block may comprise an essentially hollow base, comprising two essentially parallel faces, wherein the essentially parallel faces may be opposite to each other.

[0088] The essentially hollow base may comprise preferably an essentially hollow rectangular- cuboid body, wherein the essentially parallel faces may be square faces.

[0089] The essentially hollow base may comprise a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries.

[0090] The essentially hollow base may comprise an essentially hollow semi- or quarter- cylindrical body.

[0091] The peripheral section of a face of said base of the roof block may comprise a second connector.

[0092] An essentially polyhedral hollow body may protrude out of the face of the roof block opposite to the face of the roof block comprising the second connector.

[0093] The polyhedral body may comprise a pyramidal body with a base, wherein the base essentially may coincide with the face of the base of the roof block opposite to the face of the base of the roof block comprising the second connector.

[0094] The polyhedral body may comprise a wedge body with a base, wherein the base may essentially coincide with the face of the base of the roof block opposite to the face of the base of the roof block comprising the second connector.

[0095] The faces of the polyhedral body comprise a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries.

[0096] The second connector of the roof block may comprise a four-connection second connector comprising four second vertical connectors.

[0097] Each of said vertical connector may lie at the vertices of the peripheral section of the square face of the roof block comprising the second connector. The second connector of the roof block may comprise a two-connection second connector comprising two second vertical connectors.

[0098] The roof block may be configured to be vertically placed on top of the basic block to create a vertical assembly of the roof block and the basic block, by means of engaging the second connector comprised in the peripheral section of a face of the roof block to the composite connector comprised in the peripheral section of a face of the basic block.

[0099] Said vertical assembly of a roof block and a basic block may be configured to self-center said vertical assembly of a roof block and a basic block, by means of assisting, thanks to the shape of the curved surfaces of the receiving cavities comprised in the composite connector of the basic block, and of the corresponding curved surfaces of the protruding tab comprised in the second connector of the roof block, a transition between a misaligned and / or incomplete match to a definite position of the modular blocks in the vertical assembly of a roof block and a basic block.

[0100] The vertical connection between said stacked roof block and basic block is configured to bear loads lower than 170 kg, preferably lower than 140 kg, most preferably lower than 110 kg.

[0101] It will be understood that, in this specification, when it is stated that a horizontal connector and / or connection according to embodiments of the present invention is configured to bear a load, said load can be a horizontal and / or vertical load exerted on said horizontal connector and / or connection.

[0102] It will be further understood that, in this specification, when it is stated that a vertical connector and / or connection according to embodiments of the present invention is configured to bear a load, said load can be a vertical load exerted on said vertical connector and / or connection, but preferably not a side and / or shear load exerted on said vertical connector and / or connection.

[0103] It will be understood that a roof block may represent ramps and / or stairs.

[0104] In one embodiment, the modular block may comprise a bridge block, wherein the bridge block may comprise an essentially elongated body terminating in two opposite faces.

[0105] Said opposite faces may comprise a second connector. Each of said opposite faces may comprise a second horizontal connector.

[0106] The bridge block may be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of a basic block to create a horizontal assembly of the bridge block and of the basic block, by means of engaging a second horizontal connector comprised in a face of the bridge block to a horizontal connector comprised in the peripheral section of a face of the basic block.

[0107] Within said horizontal assembly of the bridge block and of the basic block, the bridge block may be configured to maintain a definite horizontal position, wherein the definite horizontal position may comprise the bridge block horizontally protruding out of the basic block.

[0108] The bridge block may be, concurrently, vertically placed, at least in part, on top of another basic block to create a horizontal assembly of the bridge block and of the other basic block, by means of engaging the other second horizontal connector comprised in another face of the bridge block to another horizontal connector comprised in the peripheral section of the face of the basic block.

[0109] The horizontal connections between said connected bridge block and basic block and / or other basic block may be configured to bear loads essentially lower than 50 kg, preferably lower than 40 kg, preferably lower than 25 kg.

[0110] The bridge block may comprise at least a vertical connector of the bridge block.

[0111] The at least one vertical connector of the bridge block may be comprised in a face of the bridge block other than the two opposite faces of the bridge block.

[0112] In one embodiment, the modular block may comprise a decorative block.

[0113] The decorative block may comprise a decorative body.

[0114] Said body may be an essentially rectangular-cuboid or rounded body.

[0115] A face of said body may comprises a second connector.

[0116] Said second connector may comprise a second horizontal connector.

[0117] The face of the decorative block, comprising the second connector, may comprise a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries, running from the face of the decorative block, comprising the second connector, to the opposite face of the second block. The decorative block may be configured to be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of a basic block to create a horizontal assembly of the decorative block and of the basic block, by means of engaging the second horizontal connector comprised in a face of the decorative block to a horizontal connector comprised in the peripheral section of a face of the basic block.

[0118] The horizontal connection between said connected decorative block and basic block may be configured to bear loads essentially lower than 50 kg, preferably lower than 40 kg, preferably lower than 25 kg.

[0119] The decorative block may represent, without limitation, a battlement, a sign of round, square, or other shape, a roof overhang, a marquee.

[0120] In one embodiment, the modular block may comprise a structural block.

[0121] The structural block may comprise a second connector, wherein the second connector may comprise a second horizontal connector.

[0122] The structural block further may comprise at least one vertical connector, preferably two or four vertical connectors.

[0123] The structural block may comprise a triangular prism, wherein the triangular faces of said triangular prism may comprise right triangles.

[0124] A rectangular face of said triangular prism, opposite to the face of said triangular prism comprising the hypotenuses of said right triangles, may comprise a second connector wherein the second connector comprises a second horizontal connector.

[0125] The second horizontal connector of the structural block may be located at the middle point of a side of said rectangular face, wherein said side may be shared by said rectangular face and the other rectangular face of the triangular prism, opposite to the face of said triangular prism comprising the hypotenuses of the right triangles.

[0126] The face of said triangular prism, opposite to the face of said triangular prism comprising the hypotenuses of said right triangles, may further comprise two vertical connectors.

[0127] The two vertical connectors may be located at two vertices of a side of said rectangular face, wherein said vertices may be shared by said rectangular face and the other rectangular face of the triangular prism, opposite to the face of said triangular prism comprising the hypotenuses of the right triangles.

[0128] The face of said triangular prism, opposite to the face of said triangular prism comprising the hypotenuses of said right triangles, may further comprise four vertical connectors.

[0129] The four vertical connectors may be located at four vertices of said rectangular face.

[0130] The structural block may be configured to be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of a basic block to create a horizontal assembly of the structural block and of the basic block, by means of engaging the second horizontal connector comprised structural block to a horizontal connector comprised in the peripheral section of a face of the basic block.

[0131] The basic block or the roof block may be configured to be vertically placed on top of the structural block to create a vertical assembly of the basic block or the roof block and the structural block, by means of engaging the second connector comprised in the roof block or of the basic block to the vertical connector comprise in the structural block.

[0132] The basic block or the roof block may be configured to be vertically placed on top of another basic block to create a vertical assembly of modular blocks, wherein said vertical placing involves a side of the peripheral section of the face of the other basic block, said face comprising a second connector, and concurrently wherein the bridge block or the decorative block or a structural block may be configured to be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of the other basic block to create a horizontal assembly of modular blocks, wherein said horizontal connection involves the same side of the peripheral section of the same face of the other basic block, said same comprising a second connector. Further modular blocks may be configured to be vertically placed on top of any of the modular blocks just to further expand the vertical assembly of modular blocks and / or the horizontal assembly of modular blocks.

[0133] It may be an advantage of the present invention to allow for both horizontal assemblies of modular blocks and of vertical assemblies of modular blocks, wherein the horizontal connections and vertical connections involve the same the same side of the peripheral section of a face of a modular block.

[0134] In one embodiment, the basic block comprises a connecting piece, wherein a basic block may be configured to be horizontally connected to another basic block by means of a connecting piece. The connecting piece may be configured to take up a volume essentially matching the two essentially trapezoidal cut-outs comprised in two horizontal connectors, when the two essentially trapezoidal cut-outs are adjacent to each other.

[0135] A basic block may be configured to be placed adjacent to another basic block, such that the trapezoidal cut-out comprised in a horizontal connector of the basic block may be adjacent to the trapezoidal cut-out comprised in a horizontal connector of the other basic block, wherein the connecting piece may be configured to horizontally connect the basic block to the other basic block, upon vertical insertion, by filling up the volume defined by the adjacent trapezoidal cut-outs.

[0136] The modular block may comprise one or more essentially planar pieces and may be configured to be assembled from the planar pieces. The planar pieces may be configured to engage with one another by means of a press-fit, thereby assembling the modular block. Advantageously, no adhesive and / or other more involved mechanical linkage means may be needed. At least one of the essentially planar pieces may comprise at least an interlocking tab and at least one of the essentially planar pieces may comprise at least an interlocking recess, corresponding to the interlocking tab. The interlocking tab and the interlocking recess may be configured to engage each other in a snug fit when pressed together to provide a snug engagement when pressed together. In other words, by pressing together a plurality of essentially planar pieces, thanks to the snug-fit engagement between interlocking recess(es) and interlocking tab(s), a modular block, such as the hollow body of the modular block, may be assembled.

[0137] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to basal platform, comprising at least one basal sub-platform.

[0138] The basic block and / or the roof block may be configured to be vertically placed on top of the basal platform.

[0139] The basal sub-platform may comprise at least a sub-platform female connector.

[0140] Said sub-platform female connector may be configured to be engaged by a second vertical connector.

[0141] The basal sub-platform may comprise two opposite, essentially square faces, wherein the square faces may essentially match the face of a basic block and / or of a roof block comprising a second connector. The basal sub-platform may comprise four sub-platform female connectors, wherein said connectors lie at the vertices of the essentially square faces of the basal sub-platform.

[0142] Said sub-platform female connectors may be configured to be engaged, by vertical adherence, by the protruding tab of the second vertical connectors comprised in a basic block or in a roof block.

[0143] The basal platform comprises a plurality of sub-platforms, wherein the sub-platforms may be configured to be arranged next to one another in a plane, forming a continuous structure, thereby allowing a plurality of basic blocks or roof blocks to be vertically stacked each on top of a sub-platform comprised in the plurality of sub-platforms.

[0144] The basal platform may comprise at least a terminal connector.

[0145] The at least one terminal connector may be located in correspondence of one edge of the basal platform.

[0146] The at least one terminal connector may comprise an s-shaped connector.

[0147] The at least one terminal connector may comprise a male terminal sub-connector and a female terminal sub-connector.

[0148] The basal platform may be configured to be horizontally connected to another basal platform by engaging the male terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the basal platform to the female terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the other basal platform, and, concurrently, by engaging the male terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the other basal platform to the female terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the basal platform.

[0149] Embodiments of the present invention may provide, thanks to the basal platform, a stable base for vertical and / or horizontal assemblies of modular blocks. A further advantage of embodiments of the present invention may be that the basal platform may be lifted to transport the basal platform and a horizontal / vertical assembly of modular blocks, wherein the horizontal / vertical assembly of modular blocks is realized on top of the basal platform. In one embodiment, the modular block may comprise moving parts.

[0150] The modular block may be configured to be used interactively by means of using said moving parts. The modular block may comprise one or more plugs and / or holes on the surfaces of the modular block, wherein the one or more plugs and / or holes may be configured to engage the moving parts.

[0151] The one or more plugs and / or holes may be configured to engage the moving parts by a friction fit.

[0152] The one or more plugs and / or holes may be configured to engage the moving parts by a clicking mechanism.

[0153] Movable parts may represent, without limitation, doors, gates, windows, drawbridges, wells, trap doors, breakable walls, windmills, portcullises, rails, furniture, and / or water wheels.

[0154] Movable parts may further be engaged on hinges, wherein the hinges may be comprised by a surface of a modular block.

[0155] Movable parts might slide withing the engaging element while being captive, i.e. engaged. For instance, a movable part representing a portcullis or a sliding door can be slid along a direction.

[0156] A moving part may comprise a removable wall, wherein the removable wall may be configured to realize a friction fit with a face of a basic block, wherein said face of the basic block may comprise an aperture, wherein the removable wall may be configured to essentially fit said aperture.

[0157] In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a carrier device for storing and / or carrying one or more modular blocks, the carrier device configured to allow the piling of one or more modular blocks in the carrier device.

[0158] The carrier device may comprise an essentially hollow body, wherein said hollow body may be configured to allow the piling of one or more modular blocks in the hollow body.

[0159] Said hollow body may comprise a carrier base, wherein the hollow body may further comprise faces other than the carrier base.

[0160] The carrier base may comprise a basal platform. The faces other than the carrier base may comprise a basal platform.

[0161] The carrier base and the faces other than the carrier base may be configured to be extractable from the carrier device.

[0162] In a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a shelf device for storing one or more modular blocks, the shelf device configured to allow the piling of one or more modular blocks on the shelf device.

[0163] The shelf device may comprise a shelf base, wherein the shelf base may comprise a basal platform.

[0164] The shelf device may be configured to be fixed to a wall or to a vertical structure.

[0165] The modular block may be made by wood.

[0166] This may be an advantage of the present invention. Materials typically utilized in toys, include soft and / or flexible materials, especially plastics and / or rubbers, which, on the one hand, may not be environmentally sustainable and, on the other, may further not guarantee proper structural stability and safety to the toy system when used by children. In other cases of prior technologies, materials are utilized that are hard and durable, such as ABS plastic. The use of such materials may be needed to achieve a precise friction fit between elements that may last across many uses. The precision requirements may prescribe certain forms of manufacturing, e.g., injection moulding, and may not be sustainable, even possibly prohibiting the use of recycled materials in some cases.

[0167] The modular block may be made of plywood.

[0168] The modular block a modular block may comprise an identification token.

[0169] An assembly of modular blocks may comprise an identification token.

[0170] The identification token may be a code.

[0171] The identification token may be a QR code.

[0172] The identification token may be a bar code.

[0173] The identification token may be a DataMatrix code. The modular block may be for a modular system.

[0174] The modular block may be for a modular toy system.

[0175] The modular block may be for a construction modular block system.

[0176] The modular block may be for an educational modular block system.

[0177] The modular block may be for an industrial design system.

[0178] In a fifth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for personalized production of a modular block, the method comprising selecting a modular block, accessing information on the modular block, establishing a personalization of the modular block, producing the modular block according to the personalization of the modular block.

[0179] The step of selecting a modular block may be performed on an online platform.

[0180] The step of accessing information on the modular block may be performed on an online platform.

[0181] The step of personalizing a modular block may be performed on an online platform.

[0182] The method may comprise selecting the modular block based on an identification code of the modular block.

[0183] The method may comprise accessing information on the modular block based on the identification code of the modular block.

[0184] The information on the modular block may comprise instructions on the use of the modular block.

[0185] The information on the modular block may comprise suggestions on use of the modular block.

[0186] The information may comprise educational content. The educational content may comprise, for instance, historical notes.

[0187] The information on the modular block may comprise instructions and / or suggestions on the use of the modular block in an assembly of modular blocks. The information on the modular block may comprise details on a personalization of the modular block, said personalization having been performed before the step of accessing information on the modular block.

[0188] The personalization of the modular block may be defined by a user.

[0189] The method may comprise establishing a personalization of at least a part of at least a surface of the modular block.

[0190] The personalization of at least a part of at least a surface of the modular block may comprise a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries.

[0191] The personalization of at least a part of at least a surface of the modular block may comprise engravings and / or the like.

[0192] The method may comprise manufacturing the modular block according to the personalization of the modular block by the means of cutting pieces of the modular block out of a slab of material.

[0193] The method may comprise utilizing a slab of material made of wood.

[0194] The method may comprise utilizing a slab of material made of plywood.

[0195] The method may comprise glueing the pieces of the modular block together to assemble the modular block.

[0196] The method may comprise configuring a laser cutter to laser-cut the pieces of the modular block out of the slab of material.

[0197] The method may comprise detecting imperfections in the slab of material, and dynamically lay-out and laser-cut the pieces of the modular block out of sections of the slab of materials where imperfections are not detected.

[0198] The method may comprise configuring a milling cutter to create incisions on the slab of material, wherein said incisions delimit the perimeter of the pieces of the modular block in selected segments, in order to pre-chamfer the edges of the final assembly of pieces. In other words, only the segments defining the edges that are exposed in the final assembly of pieces, i.e. in the final modular block, may be pre-chamfered.

[0199] The method may comprise configuring a laser cutter to automatically laser-cut the pieces of the modular block out of the slab of material, by cutting along the incisions for the segments where the incisions are made.

[0200] The step of producing the modular block may comprises the production of one or more essentially planar pieces. The one or more essentially planar pieces may be according to any of embodiment described herein. The production of one or more essentially planar pieces may comprise the cutting of the one or more essentially planar pieces from a slab of material. It will be understood that the one or more essentially planar pieces may be cut so to exhibit interlocking recess(es) and corresponding interlocking tab(s), that is interlocking geometries configured for a snug fit achieved via, e.g., pressing. The method may comprise assembling the modular block by press-fitting and engaging a plurality of the essentially planar pieces together to assemble the modular block. The method may comprise disassembling the modular block by releasing the one or more engaged essentially planar pieces. The method may comprise re-assembling the modular block with the one or more planar pieces and / or using one or more of the one or more planar pieces to assemble another modular block. Put differently, a press-fit engagement between a plurality of essentially planar pieces, resulting in the assembly of a modular block, may be configured to allow repeated disassembly and reassembly of the modular block, thereby enabling personalization or customization by a user. Advantageously, embodiments of the present invention may thereby enable personalization and / or customization by a user.

[0201] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for ordering a personalized modular block according to any of the preceding system embodiments, the method comprising the method according to any of preceding method embodiments.

[0202] In another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for assembling a modular block according to any embodiment of the present invention, by press-fitting and engaging a plurality of essentially planar pieces together to assemble the modular block. The one or more essentially planar pieces may be according to any of embodiment described herein. The method may comprise disassembling the modular block by releasing the one or more engaged essentially planar pieces. The method may comprise re-assembling the modular block with the one or more planar pieces and / or using one or more of the one or more planar pieces to assemble another modular block.

[0203] The present technology is also described by the following numbered embodiments. Below, reference will be made to modular block embodiments. These embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "B" followed by a number. Whenever reference is herein made to "modular block embodiments", these embodiments are meant.

[0204] Bl. A modular block, the modular block comprising at least one among: a composite connector, and a second connector corresponding to the composite connector, wherein the composite connector comprises at least a horizontal connector and at least a vertical connector, and wherein the second connector comprises at least a second horizontal connector, corresponding to the horizontal connector, or at least a second vertical connector, corresponding to the vertical connector.

[0205] B2. The modular block according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the horizontal connector comprises a receiving receptacle, comprising an essentially trapezoidal cut-out, the receiving receptacle featuring an essentially planar base of the receiving receptacle, the planar base of the receiving receptacle being horizontal, wherein the second horizontal connector comprises a horizontally protruding tab with a rounded projection essentially matching the trapezoidal cut-out of the receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector.

[0206] B3. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B2, wherein the horizontally protruding tab of the second horizontal connector is configured to engage in a snug and / or loose fit, by vertical insertion, the receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector, wherein said horizontally protruding tab and said receiving receptacle are engaged in a horizontal connection.

[0207] B4. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B3, wherein the modular block is configured to be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of another modular block to create a horizontal assembly of modular blocks, by means of vertically adhering the essentially planar base of the engaged receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector of the modular block to the corresponding planar surface of the protruding tab of the second horizontal connector of the other modular block, wherein the modular blocks in the horizontal assembly of modular blocks are connected by means of a horizontal connection. B5. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B4, wherein the modular block in the horizontal assembly of modular blocks is configured to be horizontally locked to the other modular block in the horizontal assembly of modular blocks, by means of the horizontal interlocking of the engaged receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector of the modular block and the protruding tab of the second horizontal connector of the other modular block.

[0208] B6. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the vertical connector comprises an essentially half-rectangular-cuboid recess, wherein the half-rectangular-cuboid recess comprises three faces of a rectangular cuboid, said three faces sharing a vertex of the half rectangular cuboid, wherein one of said three faces comprises an essentially planar base of the half- rectangular-cuboid recess, said planar base being horizontal and preferably square, wherein the other two faces of said three faces comprise curved surfaces, said curved surfaces having a concavity that points to the inner portion of the half- rectangular-cuboid recess.

[0209] B7. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B6, wherein the curved surfaces transition, along directions essentially perpendicular to the planar base of the half-rectangular- cuboid recess, into said planar base, wherein the curved surfaces transition, along directions essentially parallel to the planar base of the half-rectangular-cuboid recess, into each other, wherein said planar base of the half-rectangular-cuboid recess and said curved surfaces define a receiving cavity of the vertical connector.

[0210] B8. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B7, wherein the second vertical connector comprises a vertically protruding tab with a rounded projection essentially matching the receiving cavity of the vertical connector.

[0211] B9. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B8, wherein the vertically protruding tab of the second vertical connector is configured to engage in a snug and / or loose fit, by vertical adherence, the receiving cavity of the vertical connector wherein said vertical protruding tab and said receiving receptacle are engaged in a vertical connection.

[0212] BIO. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B9, wherein the modular block is configured to be vertically placed on top of another modular block to create a vertical assembly of modular blocks, by means of vertically adhering the planar base of the receiving cavity of the vertical connector to the corresponding planar surface of the vertically protruding tab of the second vertical connector, wherein the modular blocks in the vertical assembly of modular blocks are connected by means of a vertical connection.

[0213] Bll. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment BIO, wherein a vertical assembly of modular blocks is configured to self-center the vertical assembly of modular blocks, by means of assisting, thanks to the shape of the curved surfaces of the receiving cavity comprised in the vertical connector, and of the corresponding curved surfaces of the vertically protruding tab comprised in the second vertical connector, a transition between a misaligned and / or incomplete match to a definite position of the modular blocks in the vertical assembly of modular blocks, wherein the definite position involves a close fit between said receiving cavity and said protruding tab.

[0214] B12. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B4, wherein the horizontal connection is configured to bear loads essentially lower than 50 kg, preferably lower than 40 kg, preferably lower than 25 kg.

[0215] B13. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B9, wherein the vertical connection is configured to bear loads lower than 170 kg, preferably lower than 140 kg, most preferably lower than 110 kg.

[0216] B14. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B2, wherein the protruding tab of the second horizontal connector is configured to protrude out by essentially less than 15 mm, preferably by less than 9 mm, more preferably by less than 7 mm.

[0217] B15. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B2, wherein the depth of the receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector in a direction essentially perpendicular of the planar base of said receiving receptacle measures less than 15 mm, preferably by less than 9 mm, more preferably by less than 7 mm. B16. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B4, wherein the tolerance of the horizontal connection is lower than 1 mm, preferably lower than 0.5 mm, more preferably lower than 0.2 mm.

[0218] B17. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B6, wherein the side of the preferably square base planar base of the half-rectangular-cuboid recess is in a range between 2 and 10 mm, preferably in a range between 4 and 8 mm, more preferably in a range between 5 and 7 mm.

[0219] B18. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B6, wherein, within a projection of the receiving cavity of the vertical connector onto a plane comprising the essentially planar base of the receiving cavity, the ratio between the fraction of said projection, comprised in the essentially planar base of the receiving cavity, and the fraction of said projection, comprised in the curved surfaces of the receiving cavity, is comprised in a range from 1 / 8 and 2, preferably between 1 / 4 and 1, more preferably between 1 / 3 and 41 / 50.

[0220] B19. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B6, wherein, within a projection of the receiving cavity of the vertical connector onto a plane perpendicular to the essentially planar base of the receiving cavity, the fraction of said projection, comprised in the curved surfaces of the receiving cavity, is a quarter of a circle with radius smaller than 15 mm, preferably smaller than 8 mm, more preferably smaller than 5 mm.

[0221] B20. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B8, wherein the vertically protruding tap of the second vertical connector is configured to protrude by less than 15 mm, preferably by less than 8 mm, more preferably by less than 5 mm.

[0222] B21. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B7, wherein the depth of the receiving cavity of the vertical connector in a direction essentially perpendicular of the planar base of said receiving cavity measures less than 15 mm, preferably by less than 8 mm, more preferably by less than 5 mm. B22. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B9, wherein the tolerance of the vertical connection is lower than 1 mm, preferably lower than 0.5 mm, more preferably lower than 0.2 mm.

[0223] B23. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the modular block comprises faces, wherein said faces comprise customizable surfaces.

[0224] B24. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B23, wherein a customization of the customizable surfaces is defined by a user.

[0225] B25. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B23, wherein a customization of the customizable surfaces comprises a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries, and / or engravings and / or painting and / or glued printed paper and / or felt and / or the like.

[0226] B26. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the modular block comprises a basic block, wherein the basic block comprises an essentially hollow body, wherein the hollow body comprises faces.

[0227] B27. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B26, wherein the peripheral section of a face of the basic block comprises a composite connector.

[0228] B28. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B27, wherein the half-rectangular-cuboid recess, comprised in the vertical connector, comprises a hole in correspondence to the vertex shared by the three faces comprised in the half-rectangular-cuboid recess.

[0229] B29. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B27, wherein the peripheral section of a face of the basic block, preferably opposite to the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector, comprises a second connector. B30. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B27 and B29, wherein the basic block comprises an essentially hollow, preferably cubic, body.

[0230] B31. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B30, wherein a side of a face of the essentially hollow, cubic body has a length between 20 mm and 220 mm, preferably between 80 mm and 120 mm, more preferably between 103 mm and 105 mm.

[0231] B32. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B27 and B29, wherein the basic block comprises an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid body.

[0232] B33. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B32, wherein the extension of said basic block comprising an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid body, in a direction essentially perpendicular to the face of the basic block, comprising a composite connector, is a fraction or multiple of the extension of the basic block comprising an essentially hollow, cubic body, according to embodiment S26, in said direction.

[0233] B34. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B32, wherein the extension of said basic block comprising an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid body, in one or more directions essentially parallel to the face of the basic block comprising a composite connector, is a fraction or multiple of the extension of the basic block comprising an essentially hollow, cubic body, according to embodiment S26, in said direction.

[0234] B35. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B32, wherein the extension of said basic block comprising an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid body, in a direction essentially perpendicular to the face of the basic block, comprising a composite connector, is a fraction or multiple of the extension of the basic block comprising an essentially hollow, cubic body, according to embodiment S26, in said direction, and the extension of said basic block comprising an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid body, in one or more directions essentially parallel to the face of the basic block comprising a composite connector, is a fraction or multiple of the extension of the basic block comprising an essentially hollow, cubic body, according to embodiment S26, in said direction. B36. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B27 and B29, wherein the basic block comprises an essentially hollow, semi- or quarter-cylindrical body.

[0235] B37. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B30, wherein the composite connector comprises a four- connection composite connector comprising four horizontal connectors and four vertical connectors.

[0236] B38. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B37, wherein each of said horizontal connectors lies at the middle point of each side of the peripheral section of the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector, wherein each of said vertical connectors lies at the vertices of the peripheral section of the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector.

[0237] B39. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B30, wherein the second connector comprises a four- connection second connector, comprising four correspondence second vertical connectors.

[0238] B40. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B39, wherein each of said second vertical connectors lies at the vertices of the peripheral section of the face of the basic block comprising the correspondence connector, said face being preferably opposite to the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector.

[0239] B41. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B40, wherein a basic block is configured to be vertically placed on top of another basic block to create a vertical assembly of basic blocks, by means of engaging the second connector comprised in the basic block to the composite connector comprised in the other basic block.

[0240] B42. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B41, wherein said vertical assembly of basic blocks is configured to self-center said vertical assembly of basic blocks, by means of assisting, thanks to the shape of the curved surfaces of the receiving cavities comprised in the composite connector of the basic block, and of the corresponding curved surfaces of the protruding tab comprised in the second connector of the other basic block, a transition between a misaligned and / or incomplete match to a definite position of the modular blocks in the vertical assembly of basic blocks.

[0241] B43. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B41, wherein the vertical connection between said stacked basic blocks is configured to bear loads lower than 170 kg, preferably lower than 140 kg, most preferably lower than 110 kg.

[0242] B44. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B26, wherein the faces of the basic block comprise customizable surfaces.

[0243] B45. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B44, wherein a customizable surface comprises an essentially planar surface.

[0244] B46. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B44, wherein the customizable surface comprises an essentially square, chamfered aperture.

[0245] B47. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B44, wherein a customization of the customizable surface comprises a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries.

[0246] B48. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B44, wherein a customization of the customizable surface comprises one or more engravings.

[0247] B49. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments B45, B46, B47, B48, B48, wherein the customization of the customizable surface may be defined by a user.

[0248] B50. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the modular block comprises a roof block.

[0249] B51. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B50, wherein the roof block comprises a hollow, essentially polyhedral body, wherein the peripheral section of a face of said polyhedral body comprises a second connector. B52. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B51, wherein the face of said essentially polyhedral body is preferably a square face.

[0250] B53. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B50, wherein the roof block comprises an essentially hollow base, comprising two essentially parallel faces, wherein the essentially parallel faces are opposite to each other.

[0251] B54. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B50, wherein the essentially hollow base comprises preferably an essentially hollow rectangular-cuboid body, wherein the essentially parallel faces are square faces.

[0252] B55. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B50, wherein the essentially hollow base comprises a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries.

[0253] B56. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B50, wherein the essentially hollow base comprises an essentially hollow semi- or quarter- cylindrical body.

[0254] B57. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments B54 and B56, wherein the peripheral section of a face of said base of the roof block comprises a second connector.

[0255] B58. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B57, wherein an essentially polyhedral hollow body protrudes out of the face of the roof block opposite to the face of the roof block comprising the second connector.

[0256] B59. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B58, wherein the polyhedral body comprises a pyramidal body with a base, wherein the base essentially coincides with the face of the base of the roof block opposite to the face of the base of the roof block comprising the second connector. B60. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B58, wherein the polyhedral body comprises a wedge body with a base, wherein the base essentially coincides with the face of the base of the roof block opposite to the face of the base of the roof block comprising the second connector.

[0257] B61. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B58, wherein the faces of the polyhedral body comprise a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries.

[0258] B62. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B52 or B57, wherein the second connector comprises a four-connection second connector comprising four second vertical connectors.

[0259] B63. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B62, wherein each of said vertical connector lies at the vertices of the peripheral section of the square face of the roof block comprising the second connector.

[0260] B64. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B57, wherein the roof block is configured to be vertically placed on top of the basic block to create a vertical assembly of the roof block and the basic block, by means of engaging the second connector comprised in the peripheral section of a face of the roof block to the composite connector comprised in the peripheral section of a face of the basic block.

[0261] B65. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B64, wherein said vertical assembly of a roof block and a basic block is configured to self-center said vertical assembly of a roof block and a basic block, by means of assisting, thanks to the shape of the curved surfaces of the receiving cavities comprised in the composite connector of the basic block, and of the corresponding curved surfaces of the protruding tab comprised in the second connector of the roof block, a transition between a misaligned and / or incomplete match to a definite position of the modular blocks in the vertical assembly of a roof block and a basic block.

[0262] B66. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B64, wherein the vertical connection between said stacked roof block and basic block is configured to bear loads lower than 170 kg, preferably lower than 120 kg, most preferably lower than 110 kg.

[0263] B67. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the modular block comprises a bridge block, wherein the bridge block comprises an essentially elongated body terminating in two opposite faces.

[0264] B68. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B67, wherein said opposite faces comprise a second connector.

[0265] B69. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B68, wherein each of said opposite faces comprises a second horizontal connector.

[0266] B70. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features embodiments B69, wherein the bridge block is configured to be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of a basic block to create a horizontal assembly of the bridge block and of the basic block, by means of engaging a second horizontal connector comprised in a face of the bridge block to a horizontal connector comprised in the peripheral section of a face of the basic block.

[0267] B71. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B70, wherein, within said horizontal assembly of the bridge block and of the basic block, the bridge block is configured to maintain a definite horizontal position, wherein the definite horizontal position comprises the bridge block horizontally protruding out of the basic block.

[0268] B72. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B70, wherein the bridge block may be, concurrently, vertically placed, at least in part, on top of another basic block to create a horizontal assembly of the bridge block and of the other basic block, by means of engaging the other second horizontal connector comprised in another face of the bridge block to another horizontal connector comprised in the peripheral section of the face of the basic block.

[0269] B73. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B72, wherein the horizontal connections between said connected bridge block and basic block and / or other basic block is configured to bear loads essentially lower than 50 kg, preferably lower than 40 kg, preferably lower than 25 kg.

[0270] B74. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B67, wherein the bridge block comprises at least a vertical connector of the bridge block.

[0271] B75. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B74, wherein the at least one vertical connector of the bridge block is comprised in a face of the bridge block other than the two opposite faces.

[0272] B76. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the modular block comprises a decorative block.

[0273] B77. The modular block according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the decorative block comprises a decorative body.

[0274] B78. The modular block according to the preceding embodiment, wherein said body is an essentially rectangular-cuboid or rounded body.

[0275] B79. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B77, wherein a face of said body comprises a second connector.

[0276] B80. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B79, wherein said second connector comprises a second horizontal connector.

[0277] B81. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B79, wherein the face of the decorative block, comprising the second connector, comprises a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries, running from the face of the decorative block, comprising the second connector, to the opposite face of the second block.

[0278] B82. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features embodiments B80, wherein the decorative block is configured to be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of a basic block to create a horizontal assembly of the decorative block and of the basic block, by means of engaging the second horizontal connector comprised in a face of the decorative block to a horizontal connector comprised in the peripheral section of a face of the basic block.

[0279] B83. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B82, wherein the horizontal connection between said connected decorative block and basic block is configured to bear loads essentially lower than 50 kg, preferably lower than 40 kg, preferably lower than 25 kg.

[0280] B84. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the modular block comprises a structural block.

[0281] B85. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B84, wherein the structural block comprises a second connector, wherein the second connector comprises a second horizontal connector.

[0282] B86. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B84, wherein the structural block further comprises at least one vertical connector, preferably two or four vertical connectors.

[0283] B87. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B84, wherein the structural block comprises a triangular prism, wherein the triangular faces of said triangular prism comprise right triangles.

[0284] B88. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B87, wherein a rectangular face of said triangular prism, opposite to the face of said triangular prism comprising the hypotenuses of said right triangles, comprises a second connector wherein the second connector comprises a second horizontal connector.

[0285] B89. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B88, wherein the second horizontal connector is located at the middle point of a side of said rectangular face, wherein said side is shared by said rectangular face and the other rectangular face of the triangular prism, opposite to the face of said triangular prism comprising the hypotenuses of the right triangles B90. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B88, wherein the face of said triangular prism, opposite to the face of said triangular prism comprising the hypotenuses of said right triangles, further comprises two vertical connectors.

[0286] B91. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B90, wherein the two vertical connectors are located at two vertices of a side of said rectangular face, wherein said vertices are shared by said rectangular face and the other rectangular face of the triangular prism, opposite to the face of said triangular prism comprising the hypotenuses of the right triangles.

[0287] B92. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B88, wherein the face of said triangular prism, opposite to the face of said triangular prism comprising the hypotenuses of said right triangles, further comprises four vertical connectors.

[0288] B93. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B92, wherein the four vertical connectors are located at four vertices of said rectangular face.

[0289] B94. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B85 or B89, wherein the structural block is configured to be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of a basic block to create a horizontal assembly of the structural block and of the basic block, by means of engaging the second horizontal connector comprised structural block to a horizontal connector comprised in the peripheral section of a face of the basic block.

[0290] B95. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B86 or B91 or B93, wherein the basic block or the roof block is configured to be vertically placed on top of the structural block to create a vertical assembly of the basic block or the roof block and the structural block, by means of engaging the second connector comprised in the roof block or of the basic block to the vertical connector comprise in the structural block.

[0291] B96. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiments B41, B64, B70, B82, B94, wherein the basic block or the roof block is configured to be vertically placed on top of another basic block to create a vertical assembly of modular blocks, wherein said vertical placing involves a side of the peripheral section of the face of the other basic block, said face comprising a second connector, and concurrently wherein the bridge block or the decorative block or a structural block is configured to be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of the other basic block to create a horizontal assembly of modular blocks, wherein said horizontal connection involves the same side of the peripheral section of the same face of the other basic block, said same comprising a second connector.

[0292] B97. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B96, wherein further modular blocks are configured to be vertically placed on top of any of the modular blocks mentioned in embodiment B96 to further expand the vertical assembly of modular blocks and / or the horizontal assembly of modular blocks.

[0293] B98. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B27, wherein a basic block comprises a connecting piece, wherein a basic block is configured to be horizontally connected to another basic block by means of a connecting piece.

[0294] B99. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B98, wherein the connecting piece is configured to take up a volume essentially matching the two essentially trapezoidal cut-outs comprised in two horizontal connectors, when the two essentially trapezoidal cutouts are adjacent to each other.

[0295] B100. The modular block according to any of the preceding embodiments, with the features of embodiment B99, wherein a basic block is configured to be placed adjacent to another basic block, such that the trapezoidal cut-out comprised in a horizontal connector of the basic block is adjacent to the trapezoidal cut-out comprised in a horizontal connector of the other basic block, wherein the connecting piece is configured to horizontally connect the basic block to the other basic block, upon vertical insertion, by filling up the volume define by the adjacent trapezoidal cut-outs.

[0296] B101. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein the modular block comprises moving parts. B102. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of embodiment B101, wherein the modular block is configured to be used interactively by means of using said moving parts.

[0297] B103. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of embodiment B101, wherein the modular block comprises one or more plugs and / or holes on the surfaces of the modular block, wherein the one or more plugs and / or holes are configured to engage the moving parts.

[0298] B104. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of embodiment B103, wherein the one or more plugs and / or holes are configured to engage the moving parts by a friction fit.

[0299] B105. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of embodiment B103, wherein the one or more plugs and / or holes are configured to engage the moving parts by a clicking mechanism.

[0300] B106. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of embodiment B103, wherein a moving part comprises a removable wall, wherein the removable wall is configured to realize a friction fit with a face of a basic block, wherein said face of the basic block comprises an aperture, wherein the removable wall is configured to essentially fit said aperture.

[0301] B107. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein the modular block is made of wood.

[0302] B108. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein the modular block is made of plywood.

[0303] B109. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein the modular block comprises an identification token.

[0304] Bl 10. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein an assembly of modular blocks comprises an identification token.

[0305] Bill. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of embodiment B109 or Bl 10, wherein the identification token is a code. Bl 12. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of embodiment B109 or Bl 10, wherein the identification token is a QR code.

[0306] Bl 13. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of embodiment B109 or Bl 10, wherein the identification token is a bar code.

[0307] Bl 14. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of embodiment B109 or Bl 10, wherein the identification token is a DataMatrix code.

[0308] Bl 15. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein the modular block is for a modular system.

[0309] Bl 16. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein the modular block is for a modular toy system.

[0310] Bl 17. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein the modular block is for a construction modular block system.

[0311] Bl 18. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein the modular block is for an educational modular block system.

[0312] Bl 19. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein the modular block is for an industrial design system.

[0313] B120. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, wherein the modular block comprises one or more essentially planar pieces and is configured to be assembled from the essentially planar pieces.

[0314] B121. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of B120, wherein the essentially planar pieces are configured to engage with one another by means of a press-fit, thereby assembling the modular block.

[0315] B122. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of B120, wherein at least one of the essentially planar pieces comprises at least an interlocking tab and wherein at least one of the essentially planar pieces comprises at least an interlocking recess, corresponding to the interlocking tab.

[0316] B123. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of B121, wherein the interlocking tab and the interlocking recess are configured to engage each other in a snug fit when pressed together to provide a snug engagement when pressed together.

[0317] B124. The modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, with the features of B123, wherein said snug fit achieved by pressing is releasable, thereby allowing disassembly of the modular block into the one ore more flat pieces and / or subsequent reassembly into a modular block.

[0318] Below, reference will be made to basal platform embodiments. These embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "P" followed by a number. Whenever reference is herein made to "basal platform embodiments", these embodiments are meant.

[0319] Pl. A basal platform, comprising at least one basal sub-platform.

[0320] P2. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of embodiment Pl and B26 or B50, wherein the basic block and / or the roof block are configured to be vertically placed on top of the basal platform.

[0321] P3. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of embodiment Pl, wherein the basal sub-platform comprises at least a sub-platform female connector.

[0322] P4. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of embodiment P3, wherein said sub-platform female connector is configured to be engaged by a second vertical connector.

[0323] P5. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of embodiment Pl and B26 or B50, wherein the basal subplatform comprises two opposite, essentially square, faces, wherein the square faces essentially match the face of a basic block and / or of a roof block comprising a second connector. P6. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of embodiment Pl, wherein the basal sub-platform comprises four sub-platform female connectors, wherein said connectors lie at the vertices of the essentially square faces of the basal sub-platform.

[0324] P7. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of any of embodiments P3 and B26 or B50, wherein said subplatform female connectors are configured to be engaged, by vertical adherence, by the protruding tab of the second vertical connectors comprised in a basic block or in a roof block.

[0325] P8. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of the embodiment Pl, wherein the basal platform comprises a plurality of sub-platforms, wherein the sub-platforms are configured to be arranged next to one another in a plane, forming a continuous structure, thereby allowing a plurality of basic blocks or roof blocks to be vertically stacked each on top of a sub-platform comprised in the plurality of sub-platforms.

[0326] P9. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of embodiment Pl, wherein the basal platform comprises at least a terminal connector.

[0327] PIO. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of embodiment P9, wherein the at least one terminal connector is located in correspondence of one edge of the basal platform.

[0328] Pll. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of embodiment P9, wherein the at least one terminal connector comprises an s-shaped connector.

[0329] P12. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of embodiment P9, wherein the at least one terminal connector comprises a male terminal sub-connector and a female terminal sub-connector.

[0330] P13. The basal platform according to any of the preceding basal platform embodiments, with the features of embodiment P12, wherein the basal platform is configured to be horizontally connected to another basal platform by engaging the male terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the basal platform to the female terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the other basal platform, and, concurrently, by engaging the male terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the other basal platform to the female terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the basal platform.

[0331] Below, reference will be made to carrier device embodiments. These embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "C" followed by a number. Whenever reference is herein made to "carrier device embodiments", these embodiments are meant.

[0332] Cl. A carrier device for storing and / or carrying one or more modular blocks, the carrier device configured to allow the piling of one or more modular blocks in the carrier device.

[0333] C2. The carrier device according to any of the preceding carrier device embodiments, with the features of embodiment Cl, wherein the carrier device comprises an essentially hollow body, wherein said hollow body is configured to allow the piling of one or more modular blocks in the hollow body.

[0334] C3. The carrier device according to any of the preceding carrier device embodiments, with the features of embodiment C2, wherein the hollow body comprises a carrier base, wherein the hollow body further comprises faces other than the carrier base.

[0335] C4. The carrier device according to any of the preceding carrier device embodiments, with the features of embodiments C3 and Pl, wherein the carrier base comprises a basal platform.

[0336] C5. The carrier device according to any of the preceding carrier device embodiments, with the features of embodiments C3 and Pl, wherein the faces other than the carrier base comprise a basal platform.

[0337] C6. The carrier device according to any of the preceding carrier device embodiments, with the features of embodiment C3, wherein the carrier base and the faces other than the carrier base are configured to be extractable from the carrier device.

[0338] Below, reference will be made to shelf device embodiments. These embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "S" followed by a number. Whenever reference is herein made to "shelf device embodiments", these embodiments are meant. 51. A shelf device for storing one or more modular blocks, the shelf device configured to allow the piling of one or more modular blocks on the shelf device.

[0339] 52. The shelf device according to any of the preceding shelf device embodiments, with the features of embodiments SI and Pl, wherein the shelf device comprises a shelf base, wherein the shelf base comprises a basal platform.

[0340] 53. The shelf device according to any of the preceding shelf device embodiments, with the features of embodiment SI, wherein the shelf device is configured to be fixed to a wall or to a vertical structure.

[0341] Below, reference will be made to method embodiments. These embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "M" followed by a number. Whenever reference is herein made to "method embodiments", these embodiments are meant.

[0342] Ml. A method for personalized production of a modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, the method comprising: selecting a modular block, accessing information on the modular block, establishing a personalization of the modular block, producing the modular block according to the personalization of the modular block.

[0343] M2. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein the step of selecting a modular block is performed on an online platform.

[0344] M3. The method according to the preceding method embodiment, wherein the step of accessing information on the modular block is performed on an online platform.

[0345] M4. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the step of personalizing a modular block is performed on an online platform.

[0346] M5. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises selecting the modular block based on the identification code of the modular block according to any embodiment from B109 to Bl 14.

[0347] M6. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises accessing information on the modular block based on the identification code of the modular block according to any embodiment from B109 to Bl 14. M7. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M6, wherein the information on the modular block comprises instructions on the use of the modular block.

[0348] M8. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M6, wherein the information on the modular block comprises suggestions on use of the modular block.

[0349] M9. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M6, wherein the information on the modular block comprises educational content.

[0350] MIO. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M6, wherein the information on the modular block comprises instructions and / or suggestions on the use of the modular block in an assembly of modular blocks.

[0351] Mil. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M6, wherein the information on the modular block comprises details on a personalization of the modular block, said personalization having been performed before the step of accessing information on the modular block.

[0352] M12. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the personalization of the modular block is defined by a user.

[0353] M13. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises establishing a personalization of at least a part of at least a surface of the modular block.

[0354] M14. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment B5, wherein the personalization of at least a part of at least a surface of the modular block comprises a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries.

[0355] M15. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment B5, wherein the personalization of at least a part of at least a surface of the modular block comprises engravings and / or the like. M16. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises manufacturing the modular block according to the personalization of the modular block by the means of cutting pieces of the modular block out of a slab of material.

[0356] M17. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M16, wherein the method comprises utilizing a slab of material made of wood.

[0357] M18. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M16, wherein the method comprises glueing the pieces of the modular block together to assemble the modular block.

[0358] M19. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M16, wherein the method comprises configuring a laser cutter to laser-cut the pieces of the modular block out of the slab of material.

[0359] M20. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M16, wherein the method comprises configuring a milling cutter to create incisions on the slab of material, wherein said incisions delimit the perimeter of the pieces of the modular block.

[0360] M21. The method according to the any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of embodiment M20, wherein the method further comprises configuring a laser cutter to automatically laser-cut the pieces of the modular block out of the slab of material, by cutting along the incisions.

[0361] M22. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the step of producing the modular block comprises the production of one or more essentially planar pieces.

[0362] M23. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of M22, wherein the one or more essentially planar pieces are according to any of embodiments B120-B124.

[0363] M24. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of M22, wherein the production of one or more essentially planar pieces comprises the cutting of the one or more essentially planar pieces from a slab of material.

[0364] M25. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, wherein the method comprises assembling the modular block by press-fitting and engaging a plurality of the essentially planar pieces together to assemble the modular block.

[0365] M26. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of M25, wherein the method comprises disassembling the modular block by releasing the one or more engaged essentially planar pieces.

[0366] M27. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of M26, wherein the method comprising re-assembling the modular block with the one or more planar pieces and / or using one or more of the one or more planar pieces to assemble another modular block.

[0367] M28. Method for ordering a personalized modular block according to any of the preceding system embodiments, the method comprising the method according to any of embodiments Ml to M20.

[0368] M29. A method for ordering a personalized modular block according to any of the preceding system embodiments, the method comprising the method according to any of embodiments Ml to M27.

[0369] M30. A method for assembling a modular block according to any of the preceding modular block embodiments, by press-fitting and engaging a plurality of essentially planar pieces together to assemble the modular block.

[0370] M31. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of M30, wherein the one or more essentially planar pieces are according to any of embodiments B120-B124.

[0371] M32. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of M30, wherein the method comprises disassembling the modular block by releasing the one or more engaged essentially planar pieces.

[0372] M33. The method according to any of the preceding method embodiments, with the features of M32, wherein the method comprising re-assembling the modular block with the one or more planar pieces and / or using one or more of the one or more planar pieces to assemble another modular block.

[0373] Brief description of the figures

[0374] Fig. 1 depicts, as an example, views of preferred embodiments of a modular block, according to the present invention.

[0375] Fig. 2 depicts, as an example, exploded views of preferred embodiments of subconnections and correspondence sub-connections, according to the present intention.

[0376] Fig. 3 depicts, as an example, views of preferred embodiments of a basic block, according to the present invention.

[0377] Fig. 4 depicts, as an example, exploded views of preferred embodiments of two basic blocks connecting along a vertical direction, according to the present invention.

[0378] Fig. 5 depicts, as an example, views of preferred embodiments of a basic block, according to the present invention, comprising customizable surfaces.

[0379] Fig. 6 depicts, as an example, views of preferred embodiments of a roof block, according to the present invention.

[0380] Fig. 7 depicts, as an example, an exploded view of preferred embodiments of a basic block and a roof block connecting along a vertical direction, according to the present invention.

[0381] Fig. 8 depicts, as an example, views of preferred embodiments of a bridge block, according to the present invention.

[0382] Fig. 9 depicts, as an example, an exploded view of preferred embodiments of a bridge block connecting, along a horizontal direction, to two basic blocks, according to the present invention.

[0383] Fig. 10 depicts, as an example, views of preferred embodiments of a decorative block, according to the present invention. Fig. 11 depicts, as an example, an exploded view of preferred embodiments of a decorative block connecting, along a horizontal direction, to a basic block, according to the present invention.

[0384] Fig. 12 depicts, as an example, an exploded view of preferred embodiments of a basic block connecting, along a vertical direction, to a roof block and of the same basic block connecting, concurrently and along a horizontal direction, to a bridge block and to a decorative block.

[0385] Fig. 13 depicts, as an example, a view of a preferred embodiment of a moving part, according to the present invention, and a view of a preferred embodiment of a basic block configured to be engaged by a mobile part, according to the present invention.

[0386] Fig. 14 depicts, as an example, a view of preferred embodiments of a moving part engaged to a basic block configured to be engaged by a mobile part, according to the present invention.

[0387] Fig. 15 depicts, as an example, a view of a preferred embodiment of a basal platform, according to the present invention.

[0388] Fig. 16 depicts, as an example, an exploded view of preferred embodiments of three basic blocks being stacked on top of a preferred embodiment of a basal platform, according to the present invention.

[0389] Fig. 17 depicts, as an example, a view of a preferred embodiment of a carrier device, according to the present invention.

[0390] Fig. 18 depicts, as an example, views of preferred embodiments of a carrier device, wherein faces of the carrier device base may be extracted, according to the present invention.

[0391] Fig. 19 depicts, as an example, a view of a preferred embodiment of a shelf device, according to the present invention.

[0392] Fig. 20 depicts, as an example, a view of preferred embodiments of a bridge block connecting, along a horizontal direction, to a vertical assembly of basic blocks and to another basic block, according to the present invention. Detailed description of the figures

[0393] It is noted that not all the drawings carry all reference signs. Instead, in some of the drawings, some of the reference signs have been omitted for sake of brevity and simplicity of illustration.

[0394] Hereafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail, referring to the accompanying figures.

[0395] While in the following preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described, the person skilled in the art will understand that the preferred embodiments are provided for illustrative purposes only and to render the disclosure of the present invention complete, and should by no means be construed to limit the scope of the present invention, which is defined by the claims.

[0396] From a very general viewpoint, the present invention relates to a modular block. In particular, the present invention relates to a modular block for a modular toy system.

[0397] In general, a modular block, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, may comprise a composite connector 1, in turn comprising one or more horizontal connector 2 and one or more vertical connector 3. The modular block may comprise a second connector 4, in turn comprising one or more second horizontal connectors 5, the second horizontal connector 5 corresponding the horizontal connector 2, or comprising one or more second vertical connectors 6, the second vertical connector 6 corresponding the vertical connector 3.

[0398] Fig 1A depicts views of a preferred embodiment of the modular block. The modular block, in this embodiment, comprises a composite connector 1, comprised in the outer region of a face of the modular block, and a second connector 4, comprised in the outer region of the opposite face of the modular block. More particularly, in case of the preferred embodiment depicted in Fig. 1A, the composite connector 1 comprises four horizontal connectors 2 and four vertical connectors 3. According to still the same embodiment, the second connector 4 comprises only second vertical connectors 6, and, more precisely, four vertical connectors 6.

[0399] Fig IB depicts views of another preferred embodiment of the modular block. In such embodiment, the modular block comprises an essentially elongated structure. The modular block, in this embodiment, comprises a second connector 4 only. More precisely, the second connector 4 comprises two second horizontal connectors 5, each of which is comprised by a side of the opposite sides delimiting the essentially elongated structure of the modular block.

[0400] Fig. 2A depicts an exploded view of a horizontal connector 2 and of a second horizontal connector 5. When engaged, the horizontal connector 2 and the second horizontal connector 5 can make up a horizontal connection. A horizontal assembly of blocks may be understood as an assembly of one or more modular blocks, such that said modular blocks are connected by horizontal connections. A horizontal connector 2 can comprise a female connector. Such female connector comprises a receiving receptacle 7, with an indentation having a generally trapezoidal section and displaying therefore a horizontally diverging profile. Such female connector can comprise a planar base 48, which is horizontal. A second horizontal connector 5, can comprise a male connector. Such male connector comprises a horizontally, outward projecting prong 8, whose rounded projection is configured to match the indentation of the female connector horizontal connector 2. Said male and female connectors may be vertically engaged in a snug and / or loose fit, thereby allowing, by letting the planar base 48 of the female connector adhere to the corresponding planar surface of the horizontally, outward projecting prong 8 of the male connector, modular blocks to connect horizontally. Said male and female connectors may be vertically engaged in a snug and / or loose fit, thereby further allowing a firm horizontal interlock between horizontally connected blocks.

[0401] Fig. 2B depicts an exploded view of vertical connector 3 and of a second vertical connector 6. When engaged, the vertical connector 3 and the second vertical connector 6 can make up a vertical connection. A vertical assembly of modular blocks may be understood as an assembly of one or more modular blocks, such that said modular blocks are connected by vertical connections. A vertical connector 3 can comprise a female connector. Such female connector can comprise an essentially half-rectangular-cuboid notch. The notch can be identified as being limited by three faces of a rectangular cuboid. Out of these three faces, one face can comprise an essentially planar base 9, which is horizontal. Out of these three faces, the two faces 10 other than the planar base 9 can comprise curved surfaces. The curved surfaces transition into the planar base, along directions essentially perpendicular to the planar base, and further transition into each other, along directions essentially parallel to the planar base. The planar base and the curved surface may thereby define a chamfered receiving cavity. A second vertical connector 6 can comprise a male connector. Such male connector comprises a vertically, outward projecting prong 11, whose rounded projection is configured to match the beveled receiving cavity of the female connector the vertical connector 8. Said male and female connectors may be vertically engaged in a snug and / or loose fit, thereby allowing, by letting the planar base 10 of the female connector adhere to the corresponding planar surface of the vertically, outward projecting prong 11 of the male connector, modular blocks to connect vertically. The latter point will be addressed more specifically in the description of the following figures.

[0402] Fig. 3A depicts a view of a preferred embodiment of a basic block 12. A basic block 12, according to the present embodiment, may be described as a modular block with an essentially hollow, cubic structure, and comprising a composite connector 1 and second connector 4. More in particular, the second connector 4 comprises, only, second vertical connectors 6. Even more in particular, the outer region of a square face of the basic block 12 comprises a four-connection composite connector 13, featuring four horizontal connectors 2, and further featuring four vertical connectors 3. The four horizontal connectors 2 may be located at the middle point of the sides of the outer region of the square face, with the receiving receptacles opening away from the center of the square face. The four vertical connectors 3 may be located at the vertices of the outer region of the square face, with the receiving receptacles opening away from the center of the square face. The outer region of the opposite square face of the basic block 12 may comprise a four-connection second connector 14, featuring four second vertical connectors 6. The four second vertical connectors 6 may be located at the vertices of the outer region of the square face, opposite to the square face comprising the composite connector 13.

[0403] Fig. 3B depicts a view of another preferred embodiment of a basic block 15. According to this embodiment, a basic block 15 may be described as a modular block having an essentially hollow, rectangular-cuboid structure. Said basic block 15 comprises a square face, comprising a four-connection composite connector 13, and an opposite square face, comprising a four-connection second connector 14, analogously to the preferred embodiment depicted in Fig. 3A. The basic block 15 may have an extension, in a direction essentially perpendicular to said square faces, that is half of the extension of the basic block 12 of the preferred embodiment of Fig. 3A. It will be understood that the connections with any other modular block, as well as the customizations, realizable for the basic block depicted in the preferred embodiment of Fig. 3A are also realizable for the basic block depicted in the preferred embodiment of Fig. 3B.

[0404] Fig. 4A depicts an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of two basic blocks 12 connecting along a vertical direction. Two or more basic blocks 12 may be vertically connected, or in other words stacked on top of one another, to create a vertical assembly of modular blocks. The stacking is achieved by engaging the 4-connection composite connector 13 of one block to the 4-connection second connector 14 of another block. In more detail, the planar base 9 of the female connectors comprised in the 4-connection composite connector 13 of one block may adhere to the corresponding planar surfaces of the prong 11 of the male connectors comprised in the 4-connection second connector 14 of the other block, thereby letting one block rest and / or be stacked on the other block and providing a vertical connection.

[0405] Fig. 4B depicts an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of two basic blocks 12 connecting along a vertical direction. In particular, Fig. 4B depicts a blow-up of an exploded view of a preferred embodiment of two basic blocks 12, realizing a misaligned and / or incomplete connection along a vertical direction. The beveling of the receiving cavity, resulting from its curved surfaces 10 and comprised in the notch of the vertical connectors 3, and of the corresponding rounded projection of the outward projecting prong 11 of the second vertical connectors 6, are configured to assist the correct vertical alignment and horizontal stability of the one or more vertically connected basic blocks 12, according to the preferred embodiment of Fig. 4B. In other words, the gradual and chamfered profiles of the curved surfaces 10 and of the outward projecting prong 11 are configured to automatically bring the two or more basic blocks 12 to an essentially optimal connection, starting from a sub-optimal connection, upon minor movements and / or stimulation and / or shaking of the two basic blocks. In still other words, in case of a sub-optimal connection between two or more basic blocks 12, as depicted in the embodiment of Fig. 4B, a small perturbation to the two or more basic blocks 12 may favor the outward projecting prong 11 to comfortably slide onto the curved surfaces 10, thereby achieving a complete and / or optimal connection of the two or more basic blocks 12. Here, it will be understood a complete and / or optimal connection of the two or more basic blocks 12 may be achieved when the planar base 10 of the female connectors comprised in the 4-connection composite connector 13 of one block essentially adheres to the corresponding planar surface of the prong 11 of male connectors comprised in the 4-connection second connector 14 of another block. A structure, composed of or more basic blocks 12 stacked on top of each other, may therefore be a self-centering structure. Furthermore, once complete and / or optimal connection of the two or more basic blocks 12 is achieved, the curved surfaces 11 comprised in the 4-connection composite connector 13 of one block may adhere to the corresponding curved surfaces of the of the prong 11 of the male connectors comprised in the 4-connection second connector 14 of the block. Therefore, said adhering curved surfaces further interlock and / or stabilize the two or more basic blocks 12 horizontally, against movements pushing and / or bringing said curved surfaces closer together.

[0406] Fig. 5 depicts views of preferred embodiments of a basic block, according to the present invention, comprising customizable surfaces. A basic block may in general comprise essentially planar surfaces, wherein said planar surfaces may be customized. The customization may be user-defined. Additionally, or alternatively, it may be generated by a computer program and / or by an artificial intelligence or the like. The customizable surfaces of basic block can comprise engravings and / or the like, for example surfaces for painting and / or for sticking printed paper. Additionally, or alternatively, the customizable surfaces of a basic block can comprise a plurality of openings and / or holes and / or perforations, according to a variety of geometries and / or arrangements. It will be understood that Fig. 5 depicts only some preferred embodiments of a basic block, comprising customizable surfaces, and that further embodiments of a basic block, comprising customizable surfaces, may exist according to the present invention.

[0407] Fig. 6A depicts views of preferred embodiments of a roof block 16. The roof block 16 may be described as a modular block comprising a second connector 4, in turn comprising four second vertical connectors 6. The roof block 16 can comprise an essentially rectangular- cuboid base 17, comprising two square faces. The outer region of one of said square faces can comprise the second connector 4, which may be a 4-connection second connector 14, as in accordance to the 4-connection second connector 14 described regarding the preferred embodiment depicted in Fig. 3A. The rectangular-cuboid base 17 may be surmounted by a pyramidal structure. The pyramidal structure 18 may exhibit a square base, substantially coinciding with the square face of the rectangular-cuboid base 17 that does not comprise the second connector 4.

[0408] Fig. 6B depicts views of preferred embodiments of a roof block 19. The roof block 19 may also be described as a modular block comprising a second connector 4, in turn comprising four second vertical connectors 6. The roof block 19, according to this embodiment, can comprise an essentially wedge-shaped body 20, featuring a square base. The outer region of said square base can comprise the second connector 4, which may be a 4-connection second connector 14, as in accordance to the 4-connection second connector 14 described regarding the preferred embodiment depicted in Fig. 3A. The second connector 14 according to the embodiment of Fig. 6B functionally coincides with the second connector 14 according to the embodiment of Fig. 6A, and thus allows the same connection as the second connector 14 according to the embodiment of Fig. 6A.

[0409] Fig. 7 depicts an exploded view of preferred embodiments of a basic block 12 and a roof block 16 connecting along a vertical direction. A basic block 12 and a roof block 16 may be vertically connected, or in other words stacked on top of one another, to create a vertical assembly of modular blocks. The stacking is achieved by engaging the 4-connection composite connector 13 of the basic block 12 to the 4-connection second connector 14 of the roof block, in analogy to the vertical connection of two basic blocks depicted in the preferred embodiment of Fig. 4A. The vertically connected basic block 12 and roof block 16, according to the embodiment of Fig. 7, may as well constitute a self-centering structure, in analogy to the vertically connected basic blocks depicted in the preferred embodiment of Fig. 4B. Fig. 8 depicts views of preferred embodiments of a bridge block 21, according to the present invention. The bridge block 21 may be described as a modular block comprising a second connector 4, in turn comprising two second horizontal connectors 5. The bridge block 21, according to the preferred embodiment depicted in Fig.7, may comprise a substantially elongated structure 22. The elongated body may be configured to represent a bridge and / or a pass and / or a horizontal link and / or connection. The elongated structure may extend until two opposite terminating sides 23, which comprise the second connector 4. In more detail, each terminal side 23 of the elongated structure comprises a second horizontal connectors 5.

[0410] Fig. 9 depicts an exploded view of preferred embodiments of a bridge block 21 connecting, along a horizontal direction, to a first basic block 12 and, concurrently, to a second basic block 12'. According to the present embodiment, the bridge block 21 and a first basic block 12 may be horizontally connected. In other words, the bridge block 21 and a first basic block 12 may be vertically placed on top of one another, at least partially, to create a horizontal assembly of modular blocks. The connection is achieved by engaging the second horizontal connector 2, comprised in a terminating side 23 of the bridge block 22, to one of the horizontal connectors 2, comprised in the first basic block 12. In more detail, the planar base 48 of the receiving cavity 7 of one horizontal connector 5 comprised in the basic block 12 can adhere, upon engagement, to the corresponding planar surface comprised in the horizontally outward protruding tab 8 comprised in the second vertical connector 5. Once said engagement is achieved, the bridge block 22 may horizontally protrude and / or stick out from the first basic block. In this regard, the interlocking of the bridge block 21 with the first basic block 12 may be configured to ensure, by means of said engagement, a robust horizontal interlocking between the bridge block 21 and the first basic block 12. In other words, the bridge block 21 is structurally sustained by its horizontal connection to, only, the first basic block 12. In still other words, the bridge block 21, once connected to the first basic block 12 according to the present embodiment, may not buckle and / or collapse under its weight and / or deviate from essentially horizontal, although the bridge block 21 may horizontally stick out from the basic block 12 and although the bridge block 21 may be connected to a basic block 12 in correspondence to, only, one of the terminating sides 23 of the bridge block 21. The bridge block 21 may concurrently be horizontally connected to a second basic block 12'. The connection is achieved by engaging the second horizontal connector 5', comprised in an opposite terminating side 23' the bridge block 21, to one of the horizontal connectors 2', comprised in the second basic block 12'. Once engagement is achieved, the bridge block 21 constitutes a horizontal junction between the first basic block 12 and the second basic block 12'. Fig. 10 depicts views of preferred embodiments of a decorative block 24. The decorative block 2 may be described as a modular block comprising a second connector 4, in turn comprising, only, a second horizontal connector 5. According to the preferred embodiment depicted in Fig.9, the decorative block 24 may comprise a substantially rectangular-cuboid structure. A face of said rectangular-cuboid structure may comprise the second horizontal connector 5. Said face of the rectangular-cuboid structure may comprise a plurality of openings and / or holes and / or perforations, according to a variety of geometries and / or arrangements. Said openings and / or holes and / or perforations may act as decorative elements. Fig. 10 depicts only preferred embodiments of a decorative block 24. In such embodiment the decorative block 24 exhibits battlement-like rectangular indentations 25 and battlement-like rounded indentations 26. It will be understood that further embodiments of a decorative block, comprising openings and / or holes and / or perforations that may act as decorative elements, may exist according to the present invention.

[0411] Fig. 11 depicts an exploded view of preferred embodiments of a decorative 24 block connecting, along a horizontal direction, to a basic block 12. The connection is achieved by engaging the second horizontal connector 5, comprised in the decorative block 24, to one of the horizontal connectors 2, comprised in the first basic block 12. It will be understood that said connection can be analogous to the connections described in the embodiment of Fig. 9.

[0412] Fig. 12 depicts an exploded view of preferred embodiments of a basic block 12 connecting, along a vertical direction, to a roof block 16 and of the same basic block 12 connecting, concurrently and along a horizontal direction, to a bridge block 21 and to a decorative block 24. It will be understood that the achievement of said vertical connection between the basic block 12 and the rook block 16 may be attained according to the embodiment of Fig. 7. Alternatively, or additionally, a vertical connection between the basic block 12 and another basic block may be realized, and may be attained according to the embodiment of Fig. 4. It will be further understood that the achievement of said horizontal connection between the same basic block 12, to a bridge block 21, and to the decorative block 24 may be attained according to the embodiments of Fig. 9, and to the embodiments of Fig. 11. In essence, a single basic block 12 can allow, concurrently, both for vertical expansion of the modular toy system, by means of vertically connecting a modular block to the single basic block 12, e.g. a roof block 20 or another basic block, and for horizontal expansion of the modular toy system, by means of horizontally connecting a modular block to the single basic block 12, e.g. a bridge block 21 and / or a decorative block 24. In particular, the four- connection composite connector 13, comprised in the outer region of a face of basic block 12, can be configured to allow, concurrently, for both vertical and horizontal expansion, in correspondence with the same face of the basic block 12, by means of the four horizontal connectors 2 and four vertical connectors 3 comprised by the four-connection composite connector 13 on the same face of the basic block 12. More in particular, the four-connection composite connector 13, comprised in the outer region of a face of basic block 12, can be configured to allow, concurrently, for both vertical and horizontal expansion, in correspondence with the same side of the same face of the basic block 12. It will be understood that modular blocks according to embodiments of the present inventions may therefore be connected to build vertical and / or horizontal assemblies of blocks by means of connections and / or stacking mechanisms according to the connections and / or stacking mechanisms according to embodiments of the present invention. It will be understood that the preferred embodiment of Fig. 12 is only a preferred embodiments of a vertical and / or horizontal assembly of modular blocks according to the present invention, and that further embodiments of a vertical and / or horizontal assembly of modular blocks may exist according to the present invention.

[0413] Fig. 13 (A and B) depicts a view of a preferred embodiment of a moving part 26 and a view of a preferred embodiment of a basic block 27, configured to be engaged by a mobile part. The moving part comprises hooks 28. Said hooks are configured to engage openings 29, which may be comprised by the basic block 27. The engagement may involve a friction fit between the hooks 28 and the openings 29.

[0414] Fig. 14 depicts a view of preferred embodiments of a moving 27 part engaged to a basic block 28 configured to be engaged by a mobile part 27. The mobile part 27 may move in a rotation about an axis essentially defined by the engagement point of the hooks 28 of the mobile part with the openings 29 of the basic block 28. The mobile part 27 may be interactively moved by a user. In particular, in the case of the embodiment of Fig. 14, the moving part can serve as a door or a drawbridge.

[0415] Fig. 15 depicts a view of a preferred embodiment of a basal platform 30. The basal platform may comprise one or more basal sub-platforms 31. A basal sub-platform 31 is highlighted in the embodiment of Fig. 15. A sub-platform 31 may comprise a plurality of sub-platform female connectors 32. A sub-platform female connector 32 is configured to be engaged by a second vertical connector 6. A basal platform 30 may comprise a plethora of basal sub-platforms 31, wherein the basal sub-platforms 31 are placed adjacent to each other and continuously connected in a plane. In the embodiment of Fig. 15, the basal subplatform 31 comprises a square-like body. A sub-platform female connector 32 may be located at each vertex of said square-like body. According to the embodiment of Fig. 15, a plurality of basal sub-platforms 31 are placed adjacent to each other and continuously connected in a plane and, in particular, according to a 3x2 arrangement. In other words, two rows of three basal sub-platforms 31 are placed adjacent to each other and continuously connected in a plane, wherein said three basal sub-platforms 31 are placed adjacent to each other and continuously connected in the plane. The basal platform 30 may further comprise a plurality of terminal connectors 33. The terminal connectors 33 may be comprised by the outer sections of the basal platform 30. A terminal connector 33 may be essentially S-shaped and comprise both a male sub-connector 34 and a female sub-connector 35. Said male sub-connector 34 is configured to engage the female subconnector 35 of another basal platform 30. The basal platform 30 may be connected to another basal platform along a plane by means of engaging the male sub-connector 34 of the terminal connectors 33 comprised in the basal platform to the female sub-connectors 34 of the terminal connectors 33 comprised in the other basal platform. A horizontal assembly of basal platforms 30 may therefore be realized.

[0416] Fig. 16 depicts an exploded view of preferred embodiments of three basic blocks 12 being stacked on top of a preferred embodiment of a basal platform 30. The stacking and / or connecting may be achieved by vertically engaging the female connectors 32, comprised in the basal platform, with the second vertical connectors 6, comprised in the basic blocks. The basal platform 30 and / or a horizontal assembly of basal platforms may serve as a stable base and / or support for connecting basic blocks to the basal platform 30 and to further expand the modular toy system, vertically and / or horizontally, by means of further connections between modular blocks, as depicted and described, e.g., in the embodiments of the preceding figures.

[0417] Fig. 17 depicts a view of a preferred embodiment of a carrier device 36. The carrier device 36 can comprise a carrier base 37, which in turn may comprise a basal platform 30. A plurality of basic blocks 12 may be connected to said basal platform 30 and be piled thereon. It will be understood that the achievement of said piling and / or connection may be attained according to the embodiment of Fig. 16. The carrier device 36 can comprise further faces 38 and a handle 39. The carrier device 36 can, overall, enclose an essentially hollow space. The carrier base 37 and the further faces 38 of the carrier device 36 may be configured to be extracted from the carrier device 36. The further faces 38 of the carrier device 36 may or may not comprise a basal platform 30. The handle 39 is configured to allow for lifting and / or transportation of the carrier device 36 by a user. The carrier device 36 may therefore be configured for the storing of a plurality of basic blocks 12 and / or for the carrying of a plurality of basic blocks 12 stored in the carrier device 36.

[0418] Fig. 18 depicts views of preferred embodiments of a carrier device, wherein faces may be extracted. In detail, one embodiment of Fig. 18 depicts a carrier device 40, wherein no faces of the carrier device 40 are extracted. A further embodiment depicts a carrier device 40 wherein a fraction of the faces other than the carrier base 37 may be extracted from the carrier device 40, and wherein plurality of basic blocks 12 may be piled in the carrier device 40. A still further embodiment depicts a carrier device 42, wherein a fraction of the faces other than the carrier base 37 may be extracted from the carrier device 40, wherein one face other than the carrier base may comprise a basal platform 30, wherein another face other than the carrier base may not comprise a basal platform 43.

[0419] Fig. 19 depicts a view of a preferred embodiment of a shelf device 44. The shelf device 44 can comprise at least a shelf base 45, which in turn may comprise a basal platform 30. A plurality of basic blocks 12 may be connected to said basal platform 30 and be piled thereon. The shelf device 44 is therefore configured to store a plurality of piled basic blocks 12. It will be understood that the achievement of said piling and / or connection may be attained according to the embodiment of Fig. 16. The shelf device 44 further comprises fixing apertures, which are configured to allow the fixing of the shelf device 44 to a wall and / or to a vertical surface. Said apertures may comprise an essentially oblong hole 46, configured for hanging the shelf device 44 on a hook or the like, and / or fixing holes 47, for fixing the shelf device 44 to a wall and / or vertical surface by means of screws and / or nails running through the fixing holes 47.

[0420] Fig. 20 depicts, as an example, a view of preferred embodiments of a bridge block 21 connecting, along a horizontal direction, to a vertical assembly of basic blocks 12, 12' and to another basic block 12", according to the present invention. The horizontal connection between the bridge block 21 with the basic block 12 may be configured so that a seamless transition 49 may be present between a surface 50 of the bridge block 21 and an inner surface 51 of the basic block 12'.

[0421] Whenever a relative term, such as "about", "substantially", "essentially" or "approximately" is used in this specification, such a term should also be construed to also include the exact term. That is, e.g., "substantially straight" should be construed to also include "(exactly) straight".

[0422] Whenever steps were recited in the above or also in the appended claims, it should be noted that the order in which the steps are recited in this text may be accidental. That is, unless otherwise specified or unless clear to the skilled person, the order in which steps are recited may be accidental. That is, when the present document states, e.g., that a method comprises steps (A) and (B), this does not necessarily mean that step (A) precedes step (B), but it is also possible that step (A) is performed (at least partly) simultaneously with step (B) or that step (B) precedes step (A). Furthermore, when a step (X) is said to precede another step (Z), this does not imply that there is no step between steps (X) and (Z). That is, step (X) preceding step (Z) encompasses the situation that step (X) is performed directly before step (Z), but also the situation that (X) is performed before one or more steps (Yl), followed by step (Z). Corresponding considerations apply when terms like "after" or "before" are used.

Claims

Claims1. A modular block for a modular toy system, the modular block comprising at least one among: a composite connector, and a second connector corresponding to the composite connector, wherein the composite connector comprises at least a horizontal connector and at least a vertical connector, and wherein the second connector comprises at least a second horizontal connector, corresponding to the horizontal connector, or at least a second vertical connector, corresponding to the vertical connector.

2. The modular block according to the preceding claim, wherein the horizontal connector comprises a receiving receptacle, comprising an essentially trapezoidal cut-out, the receiving receptacle featuring an essentially planar base of the receiving receptacle, the planar base of the receiving receptacle being horizontal, wherein the second horizontal connector comprises a horizontally protruding tab with a rounded projection essentially matching the trapezoidal cut-out of the receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector.

3. The modular block according to the preceding claim, wherein the horizontally protruding tab of the second horizontal connector is configured to engage in a snug and / or loose fit, by vertical insertion, the receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector, wherein said horizontally protruding tab and said receiving receptacle are engaged in a horizontal connection.

4. The modular block according to the preceding claim, wherein the modular block is configured be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of another modular block to create a horizontal assembly of modular blocks, by means of vertically adhering the essentially planar base of the engaged receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector of the modular block to the corresponding planar surface of the protruding tab of the second horizontal connector of the other modular block, wherein the modular blocks in the horizontal assembly of modular blocks are connected by means of a horizontal connection.

5. The modular block according to the preceding claim, wherein the modular block in the horizontal assembly of blocks is configured to be horizontally locked to the other modular block in the horizontal assembly of modular blocks, by means of the horizontal interlocking of the engaged receiving receptacle of the horizontal connector of the modular block and the protruding tab of the second horizontal connector of the other modular block.

6. The modular block according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the vertical connector comprises an essentially half-rectangular-cuboid recess, wherein the half-rectangular-cuboid recess comprises three faces of a rectangular cuboid, said three faces sharing a vertex of the half rectangular cuboid, wherein one of said three faces comprises an essentially planar base of the half- rectangular-cuboid recess, said planar base being horizontal and preferably square, wherein the other two faces of said three faces comprise curved surfaces, wherein said planar base of the half-rectangular-cuboid recess and said curved surfaces define a receiving cavity of the vertical connector.

7. The modular block according to the preceding claim, wherein the second vertical connector comprises a vertically protruding tab with a rounded projection essentially matching the receiving cavity of the vertical connector, wherein the vertically protruding tab of the second vertical connector is configured to engage in a snug and / or loose fit, by vertical adherence, the receiving cavity of the vertical connector wherein said vertical protruding tab and said receiving receptacle are engaged in a vertical connection.

8. The modular block according to the preceding claim, wherein the modular block is configured to be vertically placed on top of another modular block to create a vertical assembly of blocks, by means of vertically adhering the planar base of the receiving cavity of the vertical connector to the corresponding planar surface of the vertically protruding tab of the second vertical connector.

9. The modular block according to the preceding claim, wherein a vertical assembly of modular blocks is configured to self-center the vertical assembly of modular blocks,by means of assisting, thanks to the shape of the curved surfaces of the receiving cavity comprised in the vertical connector, and of the corresponding curved surfaces of the vertically protruding tab comprised in the second vertical connector, a transition between a misaligned and / or incomplete match to a definite position of the modular blocks in the vertical assembly of modular blocks, wherein the definite position involves a close fit between said receiving cavity and said protruding tab.

10. The modular block according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the modular block comprises faces, wherein said faces comprise customizable surfaces, wherein the customization of the customizable surfaces is defined by a user, wherein the customization of the customizable surfaces comprises a plurality of apertures, according to a plurality of geometries, and / or engravings and / or the like.

11. The modular block according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the modular block comprises a basic block, wherein the basic block comprises an essentially hollow, preferably cubic, body, wherein the peripheral section of a face of the basic block comprises a composite connector, wherein the peripheral section of a face of the basic block, preferably opposite to the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector, comprises a second connector.

12. The modular block according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composite connector comprises a four-connection composite connector comprising four horizontal connectors and four vertical connectors, wherein the second connector comprises a four-connection second connector, comprising four correspondence second vertical connectors.

13. The modular block according to the preceding claim, wherein each of said horizontal connectors lies at the middle point of each side of the peripheral section of the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector, wherein each of said vertical connectors lies at the vertices of the peripheral section of the face of the basic block comprising the composite connector.

14. The modular block according to any of claims 1-10, wherein the modular block comprises a bridge block,wherein the bridge block comprises an essentially elongated body terminating in two opposite faces, wherein said opposite faces comprise a second connector, wherein each of said opposite faces comprises a second horizontal connector.

15. The modular block according to any of the preceding four claims, wherein the basic block is configured to be vertically placed on top of another basic block to create a vertical assembly of modular blocks, wherein said vertical placing involves a side of the peripheral section of the face of the other basic block, said face comprising a second connector, and concurrently wherein the bridge block is configured to be vertically placed, at least in part, on top of the other basic block to create a horizontal assembly of modular blocks, wherein said horizontal connection involves the same side of the peripheral section of the same face of the other basic block, said same face comprising a second connector.

16. The modular block according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the modular block comprises an identification token, wherein the identification token is a code.

17. A basal platform, comprising at least one basal sub-platform. wherein the basal sub-platform comprises at least a sub-platform female connector, wherein said sub-platform female connector is configured to be engaged by a second vertical connector according to any of claims 1-15, wherein the basal platform comprises a plurality of sub-platforms, wherein the subplatforms are configured to be arranged next to one another in a plane, forming a continuous structure, wherein a basic block according to any of claims 1-15 is configured to be vertically placed on top of a basal platform.

18. The basal platform according to the preceding claim, wherein the basal platform comprises at least a terminal connector, wherein the at least one terminal connector comprises a male terminal sub-connector and a female terminal sub-connector, wherein the basal platform is configured to be horizontally connected to another basal platform by engaging the male terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the basal platform to the female terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the other basal platform, and, concurrently, by engaging the male terminal sub-connector of the at least oneterminal connector of the other basal platform to the female terminal sub-connector of the at least one terminal connector of the basal platform.

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