CONNECTOR WITH MULTIPLE STRUCTURAL INTERFACES

BACKGROUND

Construction projects, whether they be with toy building systems for home enjoyment or a science fair, or with traditional building materials for commercial or residential structures, involve joining components securely together to create structures that are free-standing, or load supporting, or otherwise load resistive. Common to both environments, is a desire of designers and builders, whether they be grade-school children or, as an example, homebuilders, to couple components of different types of building systems together to realize a vision of a final structure. And, at least in the case of those building, for example, toy castles, there is often a desire to couple components of toy building systems with common and readily available building materials (e.g., pvc piping, common plumbing fixtures, etc.) to create a more functional, elaborate, complicated, or sophisticated drawbridge or watchtower (as an example).

Inspiration for new types of “couplings” can often strike in an instant where a builder sees components of different types of building systems in close proximity to each other. Such building systems, both in homes (with toy applications) and at construction sites, may include building blocks, pipes systems, and tubing materials, as examples. In those instances of inspiration, the builder may realize that a further, and possibly innovative, step could be taken with a configuration of an overall structure were there a way to “fit” and securely join together the components of the different building systems (e.g., dowels and plastic toy blocks, pvc piping and ceramic tiles, etc.). More specifically, the inquiry of the builder is often how can respective arrangements of accessible internal and/or external structural features of these different system components be used to securely, but not irreversibly, join the components together.

In the case of toy construction and building systems (“toy systems”), different bricks, rods, and blocks, and brick-, rod-, and block-systems, such as those respectively sold under the trademarks LEGO®, ZURU®, KRE-O®, K'NEX®, and the like, provide a builder/user with collections of interchangeable components of a particular building system. In some examples, interchangeable components of a particular building system can releasably connect to each other by way of a common, corresponding, or otherwise interlocking structural interface specific to the building system, and be arranged in almost limitless numbers of combinations. These toy systems are also considered to be an essential learning tools in Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math (STEM) education programs, and are routinely used by many professional educators.

Construction material building systems (“field systems”) encompass pipe building systems that are used for releasable construction of structures that can include, in some examples, arcuate pipes, linear pipes, pipe fittings, pipe tube connectors, and spherical joints. In other examples, some or all components of a pipe system may include specially designed clips for releasably attaching covering materials. As one of ordinary skill would readily recognize, toy pipe systems can include components that are similar in structure and function to general construction materials. Thus, all of the above statements regarding field pipe systems used for commercial and residential building projects may be applicable to toy pipe systems such as those sold under the trademarks FORT MAGIC®, CRAZY FORTS®, and the like. However, it is also known that for some example toy pipe systems, all or some of their respective components are specifically and uniquely designed for applications as toys, in both structure and function.

In addition, tubing materials such as pipes, pipe fittings, rods, and conduits (for electrical wires, fiber optic cables, etc.) are typically composed of plastic, metal, or a combination thereof. An advantage of these tubing materials is that they can often be used as supplemental building materials due to their high market-availability, moderate strength characteristics, and low cost.

Components of a particular system intended to construct some or part of a structure of any of the types previously discussed, can contain uniquely shaped pieces that can be used to be build creative structures. However, truly innovative projects may never be undertaken, even where component availability for multiple building systems is not an issue, based upon a determination that a structure of structurally-significant height, length, width, or composition with unique design challenges will exceed the integrity and durability thresholds of the components of those systems used together in conventional manners. In the environment of toy construction and building systems, determined limitations often cannot be overcome without the aid of materials such as adhesives, skeletal structures, crafting materials, or a combination thereof.

However, these solutions can result in structures with components that may easily detach, bend, or break under stresses such as weight, angles of inclination or declination, gravitational forces, other environmental factors, or a combination thereof. In addition to damage to an overall structure, components of the structure subject to these stresses can be rendered unusable.

Presently, there is no solution for interchangeably and releasably connecting the elements contained in toy systems to heterogeneous, commercially available materials such as pipes, pipe fittings, or conduits, or other common components of field systems, in order to capitalize on the potential construction advantages of stronger material characteristics, for the building of structures that may be innovative in design, shape, or scale. A need exists for connectors that are compatible with components of multiple types of building systems generally. More specifically, there is a need for connectors that are compatible with both toy and field systems, in order to be able to securely couple the different system components together. Another need exists for connectors that detachably, or otherwise reversibly, couple components of different types of building systems to facilitate experimentation and enable creativity in the design of a structure being constructed.

SUMMARY

Examples described herein include connectors configured to couple components of different types of building systems together. In one example, a connector includes a body that extends along a longitudinal axis from a first end-face to a second end-face. The body has an outer surface and defines a plurality of first recesses, a first raised block, and a second raised block. In one example, the plurality of first recesses are defined by the body at or in least one of the first end-face and the second end-face. The first and second raised blocks each respectively extend from the outer surface perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The first raised block includes a first planar surface, and defines a plurality of first protrusions that extend from the first planar surface. The second raised block includes a second planar surface, and defines a plurality of second recesses within the second planar surface. In one example, each of the body, the plurality of first recesses, the plurality of first protrusions, and the plurality of second recesses separately defines a respective structural interface. In another example, each structural interface is configured to engage with a respective corresponding structural interface of a respective external component and couple the external component to the connector.

In one example, a connector includes a hollow body that extends along a longitudinal axis and has an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface can have a substantially uniform profile and defining a channel. The hollow body defines a first raised block, and a second raised block, each respectively extending from the outer surface perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The first raised block includes a first planar surface, and defines a plurality of first protrusions that extend from the first planar surface. The second raised block includes a second planar surface, and defines a plurality of first recesses within the second planar surface. In one example, each of the body, the plurality of first protrusions, and the plurality of first recesses separately defines a respective structural interface. In another example, each structural interface is different relative to the other structural interfaces of the connector, and configured to engage with a respective corresponding structural interface of a particular component and couple the respective component to the connector.

In another example, a method of building an assembly with components from different types of building systems includes providing a connector having body. The method can further include selecting a first component from components of a field system, selecting a second component from components of a toy system, and coupling the first and second components to the connector. In some examples, the body of the connector extends along a longitudinal axis, includes a first outer surface and a first inner surface, and defines a first raised block and a second raised block. The first and second raised block can separately extend from the outer surface, and respectively define protrusions extending from a first planar surface, and recesses in a second planar surface. In another example, the first component is one of a pipe, tube, and a rod, that is selected based on having an end with a cross-section that corresponds to a cross-section the body as defined by the inner surface. Further, the second component may be selected according to a structure and arrangement of structural features of a second structural interface defined by one of the first raised block with the protrusions and the second raised block with the recesses. Coupling the first component to the connector can include engaging the end of the first component with a first structural interface defined by the inner surface of the connector. In addition, coupling the second component to the connector can include engaging an arrangement of accessible structural features of the second component with the second structural interface.

Both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the examples, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an assembly including a collection of tubes and brick pieces secured together by and coupled to exemplary connectors according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 2A illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary connector.

FIGS. 2B, 2C, and 2D each illustrate a top view of a portion of an outer surface of the exemplary connector of FIG. 2A that includes a respective exemplary raised block structure.

FIG. 3A illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary connector according to the present disclosure.

FIGS. 3B, 3C, and 3D each illustrate an isometric view of the exemplary connector of FIG. 3A rotated approximately 90° from a respective rotational position of the connector as depicted in the previous figure.

FIG. 4 illustrates an assembly including a collection of brick pieces secured together by and coupled to an exemplary connector according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 5A illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary connector.

FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 5D respectively illustrate front elevation, bottom, and top views of the exemplary connector of FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A illustrates an isometric view of the connector of FIGS. 5A-D.

FIGS. 6B, 6C, and 6D each illustrate an isometric view of the exemplary connector of FIG. 6A, rotated approximately 90° from a rotational position of the connector as depicted in a respective previous figure.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate sectional views of the exemplary connector of FIGS. 5A-6D from opposite sides of a horizontal plane with which a first axis, as shown in FIGS. 5B and 6A, is coincident.

FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional view of an exemplary connector according to the present disclosure.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate isometric views of an exemplary connected according to the present disclosure.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C respectively illustrate front, rear, and bottom isometric views of an exemplary connector according to the present disclosure.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLES

Reference will now be made in detail to the present examples, including examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. Accordingly, where the same reference numerals are used, unless otherwise stated, a structure, function, and possible alternatives described herein with respect to any of the elements identified with that reference numeral, are applicable to all elements identified with the common reference numeral.

As defined herein, a structural interface includes an arrangement of structural features defined or otherwise provided by a connector or a building (toy or field) component (“first component”) that are accessible to fasten to, interlock or mate with, or otherwise engage, a corresponding arrangement of structural features of another connector or component (“second component”), and securely attach or otherwise join the second component to the first component.

It will be noted that as used herein, “toy system” and “structural interface of a toy system” are not intended to exclude or disregard differences between sub-toy systems, or their respective structural interfaces, with respect to a broader toy system. For example, components sold under the trademark TECHNIC™ are part of a toy sub-system, as referred to herein, that is included in the broader (i.e., parent) toy system that includes standard brick pieces sold under the trademark LEGO®. In some cases, structural interfaces of components sold under the trademark TECHNIC™, are different from structural interfaces of the standard components sold under the trademark LEGO®. In some specific cases, a component from a toy sub-system such as one sold under the trademark TECHNIC™, may include a first structural interface specific to that toy sub-system, and a second structural interface that is compatible with or the same as a second structural interface common to components of a broader (parent) toy system, such as those sold under the trademark LEGO®, of which the toy sub-system is a part. Even though both are generally encompassed by the broader toy system, for the purposes of the present disclosure, the first structural interface would be distinct from the second structural interface based on its arrangement of structural features, as well as an arrangement of structural features of a structural interface corresponding thereto configured to fasten to, interlock or mate with, or otherwise engage.

For the purposes of the present disclosure, “tightly,” with respect to one structural feature “receiving” another structural feature, or an engagement or a “fit” between structural features (e.g., recesses, protrusions, stops, surfaces), refers to a feature to feature relationship that can include or be provided by a snap fit, friction fit, press fit, or any type of interference fit between those structural features. More generally, tightly refers to a structural feature that remains (securely) coupled to another structural feature, so as to effectively provide one structure, when that one combined structure is subject direct, indirect, or incidental forces of a magnitude at or below certain respective thresholds. This definition applies to a coupling between any structural feature of structural interface of a connector described herein able to (tightly) engage with, fit in, or be received by another structure of, for example, a structural interface of a component external to a connector described herein. Where two structural features or structural interfaces (considered in their entireties as explained below) can be physically arranged together tightly, the two structural features are, for the purposes of the present disclosure, considered to be corresponding.

The above definition of tightly, and example of (structural) correspondence, apply to couplings between any structural interface of a connector described herein, as an entire arrangement of structural features (as a whole), and a structural interface, as a respective entire arrangement of structural features, of an external component. More specifically, every structural feature of one a structural interface of a connector described herein may be able to tightly engage with, fit in, or be received by another structure. However, all of these structural features do not have to be in such relationship for a connector's structural interface to be considered tightly coupled to, and corresponding with, a structural interface of an external component.

Structural correspondence as used herein may include, as a general example, a relationship between elements wherein structural feature (e.g., a block, cylinder) of a first element fills, and has substantially the same shape as, a void defined by a surface of a second element. It is noted that structural correspondence includes arrangements in which the structural feature of the first element is substantial the same size, shape, and volume of the void defined by the surface of the second element, but at the same time, is readily able to be moved relative to the surface. In addition, as outlined above, structural correspondence includes an arrangement where the structural feature of first element is tightly received in and by the surface of the second element.

Turning to FIG. 1, there is illustrated an assembly 100 that includes a collection of components from different types of toy and field building systems secured together by, and coupled to, exemplary first and second connectors 110,150 according to the present disclosure. As shown the in assembly includes first, second, and third brick pieces 170, 172, 174, a figurine 176, and a dowel 180, and first and second pipes 190, 194. An upper end 192 of the first pipe 190, the first brick piece 170, and the dowel 180 are secured to the first connector 110, which also receives a first end 196 of the second pipe 194. Another secure coupling is provided by the second connector 150 at the second end 198 of the second pipe 194, which is received by the second connector 150.

Each of the brick pieces 170, 172, 174 and the figurine 176 may be components from one or more toy systems as previously described. A first brick piece 170 is secured to a first structural interface 120 defined by a first raised block 122 extending from a first outer surface 112 of the first connector 110. In particular, accessible structural features (e.g., recesses) provided by a bottom side of the first brick piece 170 are fitted to protrusions 124 extending from a first planar surface 126 of the first raised block 122. Although only the first brick piece 170 is secured, the engagement between the protrusions 124 and the accessible structural features the first brick piece 170 is representative of a secure engagement that can accomplished between the first structural interface 120 and any of the other brick pieces 172, 174 or the figurine 176.

On the other hand, at least a base 182 of the dowel 180 is receive in a recess provided by one recess 136 and aperture (or recess) 138 combination (“recess/aperature combination 136, 138”) of a second structural interface 130 defined by a second raised block 132 of the first connector 110. A cross-shaped dowel body 184 extends from the base 182 that is flush with a second planar surface 134 of the second raised block 132 in which the recess 136 is defined. The cross-shaped dowel body 184 may be representative of a second body (not shown) that extends from an opposite side of the base 182. The dowel 180 may be sized such that outer surfaces 186 of cross-members 188 slide into an aperture of the recess/aperature combination 136, 138, in abutment with a wall 140 that defines the aperture 138. However, an engagement between the dowel 186 can be accomplished only, if necessary, with a fitted engagement between the base 182 and the recess 132 of one of the recess/aperture combination 134, 136 of the second structural interface 130 defined by the second raised block 132.

In contrast to the first connector 110, the second connector 150 stands ready with unused structural interfaces defined by: (A) first and second raised blocks 152, 154 extending from a second outer surface 156; and (B) either a set of recesses 160 formed in a distal end face 162, or a portion of an inner surface 158 not engaged with the second end 198 of the second pipe 194, or a combination of the recesses 160 and the inner surface 158.

Each of the first and second pipes 190, 194, may be components of the same or different field systems, and be formed from the same or a different material (e.g., pvc, cast iron, copper tubing, steel, etc.) as the other. In one example, the pipes 190, 194 may be provided by pvc pipe having a diameter, for example, of one half (½) inch. Each of the first pipe 190 and the second pipe 194 is selected based on its respective size and outer surface configuration, in accordance with a respective size, shape, and surface profile of the inner surfaces the of the first or second connector 110, 150 receiving that pipe. More specifically each pipe is selected based on its structural features mentioned above, so that an interference fit (of some type, but preferably reversible) results between the pipe and the connector that receives it.

Thus, as can be seen in FIG. 1, connectors according to the present disclosure allow, at the same time, for: (1) releasable connection to the projections, recesses, orifices, or apertures as provided individually or in specific arrangement on components of, at the very least, a multitude of toy systems; and, (2) releasable connection to commercially available heterogeneous materials common to many field systems including commercial pipes, pipe fittings, or conduits.

FIG. 2A illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary connector 200 according to the present disclosure. As shown, the connector 200 includes a hollow body 210 having a first end-face 212, and extending along a longitudinal axis 216 to a second end-face 214 (see FIGS. 2B-D). In the example shown, the body 210 includes an outer surface 218 and an inner surface 220, and a cylindrical wall 222 formed there between. As shown in FIG. 2A, the connector 200 includes the outer surface 212 from which a plurality of raised blocks 232, 242, 262 extend in respective directions perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 216 (see FIGS. 2B-D) extending through the center of the channel 224 defined by the inner surface 220. Each raised block defines a separate structural interface of the connector 200 that is configured to engage with a corresponding structural interface of an external component to couple that component to the connector 200.

More specifically, a first raised block 232 extends, in FIG. 2A, vertically upwards from the outer surface 218, and includes a first planar surface 234 from which first protrusions 236 extend. The arrangement of structural elements (first planar surface 234, rows of first protrusions 236) provided by the first raised block 232 define a first structural interface 230 of the connector 200. Second raised blocks 242 extend from the outer surface 218 in directions diametrically opposite each other. A second structural interface 240 defined by each second raised block 232 is described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2B. A third raised block 262 extends vertically upwards from the outer surface 218. A third structural interface 260 defined by the third raised block 262 is described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2C. As described below with further reference to FIG. 2A, the inner surface 220 of the body 210 defines a fourth structural interface 280 of the connector 200. In addition, first recesses 292 formed at the first and second end-faces 212, 214 of the body 210 define a fifth structural interface 290 described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2B.

As shown in FIG. 2A, the first raised block 232 includes the first planar surface 234, and two rows of first protrusions 236. Side elevation and top views of the first raised block 232 are illustrated in FIGS. 2B and 2D. As shown in both of these figures, the first protrusions 236 are cylindrical in shape. However, other the first protrusions may be provided in other three-dimensional shapes. The first structural interface 230 defined by these structural features of the first raised block 232 may, in some examples, be configured to be compatible with and tightly coupled to structural interfaces of brick pieces, such as those sold under the trademark LEGO®, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 2D, two rows of first protrusions 236 extend from the first planar surface 234. In other examples, the first raised block 232 may be larger, or the first protrusions may be sized to provide more or less rows. In still other examples, an area of the first planar surface 234 may be greater than that of an outline of the first raised block 232 immediately extending from the outer surface 218 in order to accommodate additional rows of the first protrusions 236.

Referring back to FIG. 2A, the inner surface 220 defines the channel 224 configured to receive an external component, such as a pipe or type of tubing, and thereby defines the fourth structural interface 280 of the connector 200. In the example shown in FIG. 2A, the inner surface 220 (and fourth structural interface 280 defined thereby) has a substantially uniform profile. That is, the inner surface 220 defines smooth continuous surfaces on opposites sides of an annular ridge 282. The annular ridge 282 may be provided in order to provide a back-stop for a pipe or tubing that is inserted into a first side 202 or a second side 204 of the connector 200.

In one example, the annular ridge 282 may be formed in a location on the inner surface equidistant from the first end-face 212 and the second end-face 214. In another example, the annular ridge 282 may not be provided on the inner surface 220. In still another example, instead of a ridge, a wall (not shown) of an area equal to an area corresponding to a circumference defined by the inner surface 220 may be provide. In this example, the inner surface 220 and wall would define two chambers, each extending from a respective side of the wall to a respective one of the first and second end-faces 212, 214.

In other examples, the inner surface 220 may be formed with a uniform profile defined by ribs equally spaced along a circumference defined by the inner surface 220. The ribs may extend longitudinally over an entire length of the connector 200. An annual ridge may also be formed in the inner surface 220 of an exemplary version of the connector 200 including equally spaced ribs. In particular the annular ridge may be formed in the same location along an inner surface of a respective connector, as the annular ridge 282 shown in FIG. 2A. In still other examples, instead of an annular ridge formed in this location, a wall can be provided or an annular ring of a substantial thickness.

In another example, ribs may be formed immediately adjacent to each other so as to define rounded (convex) ridges that are configured to cooperate with adjacent groves formed in an outer circumferential surface of a pipe or tubing received by the first end 202 or the second end 204. In other examples, the ribs are spaced apart to define square or rounded grooves between each pair of ribs. In this example, the grooves may receive correspondingly shaped ribs formed in an outer circumferential surface of a pipe or tubing.

FIG. 2B illustrates a top view of a portion of the outer surface 218 of the connector 200 of FIG. 2A that includes one of the Second raised blocks 242. As shown, the second raised block 242 includes a second planar surface 244 and defines a plurality of second recesses 250 therein. The second recesses 250 are each defined by a first inner wall 246 and a step surface 248 defined by the second raised block 242. In the connector 200 illustrated in FIG. 2B, each second recess 250 is coaxial relative to a respective aperture 252 that extends from the step surface 248 through the second raised block 242 to the inner surface 220 of the body 210. Each aperture 252 is defined by a respective second inner wall 254 formed in the second raised block 242.

In the example connector 200 shown, a diameter of the first inner wall is greater than a diameter of a second inner wall. Described another way inclusive of examples in which at least one of the first inner wall and the second inner wall defines a square rather than a circular shape, a width of the second recess 250 along the longitudinal axis 216 is less than a width of the aperture 252 along the longitudinal axis 216. As one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize, such a square-shape configuration is well within the scope of the present disclosure.

As discussed above, the second raised block includes second recesses 250 and apertures 252 extending from the second recesses 250. In another example of the exemplary connector 200, third recesses could be formed in the second raised block 242 instead of the apertures 252. In this example, the second inner walls 254 would be formed in the second raised block 242 to extend from respective step surfaces 248 to a depth corresponding to a distance from step surfaces 248 to the outer surface 218 of the body 210. A size, depth, and shape of the second planar surface 244, and the second and third recesses 250, 252, in one example, define the second structural interface 240 to be configured to securely engage and couple to the connector 200, brick and other types of components of the toy system TECHNIC™.

In still other examples, a fourth recess may be defined to extend from a respective third recess toward the longitudinal axis, by a third inner wall formed in the second raised block 242 and/or the body 210. In this example, the fourth recess may be defined to have a diameter, or more generally a width along the longitudinal axis, less than that of a respective third recess, which is less than a width of a respective second recess 250.

As shown in FIG. 2B, each second recess # and aperture 252 combination in the second raised block 242 is of the same shape, size, and structure (aperture extending from a recess). In some examples, one or more recess and aperture, or recess and recess combination, can have a different shape and size configuration from the other combinations. In other examples, the structures defined by the second raised block 242 and the body 210 can differ, such that one or more combinations include a second recess and a third recess, and one or more combinations include a second recess and an aperture.

FIG. 2C illustrates a top view of a portion of the outer surface 218 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A and 2B including the third raised block 262. The third raised block 262 defines a ridge 264 that surrounds a third planar surface 266, with a set of second protrusions 268 extending from the third planar surface 266. Each second protrusion 268 is formed as a cylindrical wall surrounding a fourth recess 270 (see also element 370 of FIG. 3B). In one example, the fourth recess 270 extends from a top edge of the second protrusion 268 to the surface of the third planar surface 266. In other examples, the fourth recess can extend through all or a portion of the body 210 to the inner surface 220. In still other examples, a recess and recess or recess and aperture combination structure could be provided.

As shown in FIG. 2C, each second protrusion 268 is provided in a position equally spaced from sidewalls 272 of the ridge 264. In one example, the third structural interface 260 defined by this arrangement can correspond to a structural interface of an external component that includes protrusions. More specifically, the second protrusions 268 may be spaced such that the protrusions for the external component fit into the spaces defined between the second protrusions 268 and the sidewalls of the ridge 262 to the extent that the third structural interface 260 functions to (tightly) couple the external component to the connector 200. In other examples, protrusions provided on the external component may be tightly received by the second recesses 250.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 2A-D to describe the fifth structural interface 290 of the connector 200. FIG. 2A illustrates an elevation view of the fifth structural interface 290 defined the first end-face 212. FIGS. 2B, 2C, and 2D show overhead views of the connector 200, and provide an overhead perspective of the first recess # formed in each of the first and second end-faces 212, 214. Using the first end-face 212 as an example, each first recesses 292 is defined by: two arcuate walls as shown in FIG. 2A, the extend from the first end-face 212 toward in a direction generally towards the second end-face 214; and a transverse wall formed in the body 210 as extending between the arcuate walls. The circular, or partial circular, shape of the first recesses defined structural features of the fifth structural interface 290 configured to tightly receive cylindrical shaped protrusions, such as the first protrusions extending from the first planar surface.

With the fifth structural interface 290, the first recess # can receive a corresponding structural interface including protrusions extending a planar surface, provided by, for example, a large sheet-like component. An example of such a coupling is provided with the assembly illustrated in FIG. 4. In other examples, an external component could be any a connector described herein. More specifically recess formed in an end-face of the other connector could be sized (e.g., a width or diameter, depth, thickness, angle of inclination) such that the projections extending between pairs of recesses of the other component, can be friction fitted with the first recesses # of the exemplary connector 200.

Each of the first and second end-faces 212, 214 defines a respective fifth structural interface 290 of the connector 200. In other examples, only one end-face may define a fifth structural interface 290. In other examples, both end-faces define a fifth structural interface having a unique arrangement of structural features relative to the other interface. More specifically, the number, arrangement, and shape of first recess # as defined by the body 210, can be different for one end-faces relative to the other. In other examples, a shape and/or size of the first recesses defined by the body 210 in one of the end-faces, may be differ from one first recess to another first recess, or a group of first recesses relative to another group of recesses # for the fifth structural interface 290 defined in and by that end-face.

The first, second, and third raised blocks 232, 242, 262, as illustrated in FIGS. 2A-D, are located in angular positions 90° apart along a circumference defined the outer surface 218. However, it will be understood that this configuration with respect to the angular positions of the raised blocks is exemplary, and other configurations may be provided. Further, the raised blocks, both in number and structural type, are in no way limited by the configuration of raised blocks illustrated in FIGS. 2A-D, or any exemplary connector described herein.

FIG. 3A illustrates an isometric view of an exemplary connector 300 according to the present disclosure. FIGS. 3B, 3C, and 3D each illustrate an isometric view of the exemplary connector 300 of FIG. 3A rotated approximately 90° from a respective rotational position of the connector 300 as depicted in the previous figure. The connector 300 of FIGS. 3A-D is substantially similar to the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D, an exception being an inner surface 320 of the connector 300 does not include an annular ridge, and a number of structural features (e.g., recesses, protrusions) of several structural interfaces may be different.

As shown in FIGS. 3A-D, the connector 300 includes the outer surface 318 from which a plurality of raised blocks 332, 342, 362 extend in respective directions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 316 extending through the center of the channel 324 defined by the inner surface 320. Each of the raised blocks, the inner surface 320, and the first and second end-faces 312, 314 defines a separate structural interface of the connector 300 that is configured to engage with a corresponding structural interface of an external component and couple that component to the connector 300.

More specifically, first, second, and third raised blocks 332, 342, 362 define first, second, and third structural interfaces 330, 340, 360 substantially similar in structure and function to the first, second, and third structural interfaces 230, 240, 260 of connector 200 illustrated in FIGS. 2A-D. For example, the third structural interface 360 is defined by the third raised block 362. The third raised block includes a ridge 364 that surrounds a planar surface 366 from which protrusions 368 extend.

The inner surface 320 of the body 310 defines a fourth structural interface 380 of the connector 300. In contrast to the inner surface 320 of connector 300, an annular ridge does not extend radially inward from the inner surface 320 of the connector 300. In all other respects, the fourth structural interface 380 defined by the inner surface 320 is substantially similar in structure and function to the fourth structural interface 380 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D. In addition, alternatives for the structural features that define the fourth structural interface 380 for the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D, are applicable and available for the fourth structural interface 380 of the connector 300 of FIG. 3A-D. Only to the extent those alternatives do not include the following variations, in other examples of the connector 300, the inner surface 320 may include contours, undulations, a converging profile, or other configurations that create a natural stop for pipe, tube, or rod being received by the channel 324 defined by the inner surface 320 of the connector 300.

Further, recesses 392 formed at the first and second end-faces 312, 314 of the body 310 define a fifth structural interface 390 of the connector 300 substantial similar in structure and function to the fifth structural interface of the connector 300. In addition, alternatives for the structural features that define the first, second, third, and fifth structural interfaces 230, 240, 260, 280, 290 for the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D, are respectively applicable and available for the similar structural interfaces 330, 340, 360, 380, 390 of the connector 300 of FIG. 3A-D.

Turning to FIG. 4, there is illustrated an assembly 400 that includes a collection of components from different types of toy systems secured together by, and coupled to, an exemplary connector 410 according to the present disclosure. As shown, the assembly 400 includes a brick piece 470, a rotatable joint 480, and a panel 490.

The brick piece 470 is secured to a first structural interface 420 defined by a first raised block 422 extending from an outer surface 412 of the connector 400. In particular, accessible structural features (e.g., recesses) provided by a bottom side 472 of the brick piece 470 are fitted to first protrusions 424 extending from a first planar surface 426 of the first raised block 422. On the other hand, a pin, or armature, or other structure having a circular cross-section and extending from an end of the rotating joint 480 that is not shown, is received one recess and aperture combination 434 of a second structural interface 430. The second structural interface 430 including the recess and aperture (or recess) combinations 434 defined by the second raised block 432 in a second planar surface 436 and body of at least the second raised block 432.

The connector 410 includes the outer surface 412, an inner surface 414, three end faces 452. Like the inner surfaces of other connectors described herein, the inner surface 414 of the connector 400 defines a third structural interface 440. A set of second recesses 454 are formed in each end face 452 and defines a fourth structural interface 450. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the fourth structural interface 450 defined by the set of second recesses 454 at an end face 452 of the connector 400 is engaged to a structural interface defined by the panel 490. More specifically, second protrusions 494 extending from a planar surface 492 of the panel 490 are tightly received, fitted, or otherwise engaged to some or all of the second recesses formed in the end face 452. With the engagement of these two structural interfaces, only the connector 410 or only the panel 490 would need to be handled to lift or otherwise move the entire assembly 400, and the connector 410 and panel 490 would remain coupled together.

FIG. 5A illustrates a side elevation view of an exemplary connector 500. FIGS. 5B, 5C, and 5D respectively illustrate front elevation, bottom, and top views of the exemplary connector 500 of FIG. 5A. The connector 500 of FIGS. 5A-D includes a T-shaped body including a cross-body 510 that extends along first axis 502, as shown in FIGS. 5B-D, and a stem body 520 that extends from the cross-body 510 along a second axis 504, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. In particular, the cross-body 510 extends from a first end-face 512 to a second end-face 514 along the first axis 502, and the stem body 520 extends along the second axis 504 from the cross-body 510 to a third end face 522. The cross-body 510 is substantially hollow and includes a first outer surface 516 and a first inner surface 518, between which is a wall structure of appreciable thickness. Similarly, the stem body 520 is substantially hollow and includes a second outer surface 526 and a second inner surface 528, between which is a respective wall structure of appreciable thickness. The first and second inner surfaces 518, 528 define a first channel 506 and a second channel 508, respectively, as well as respective structural interfaces described in more detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 5A-D, the connector 500 includes the first and second outer surfaces 516, 526 from which a plurality of raised blocks 532, 542 extend in respective directions perpendicular to the first axis 502. Each raised block defines a separate structural interface of the connector 500 that is configured to engage with a corresponding structural interface of an external component and couple that component to the connector 500.

More specifically, a first raised block 532 extends, in FIG. 5A, outwardly from the first outer surface 516, and includes a first planar surface 534 from which first protrusions 536 extend. The arrangement of accessible structural elements provided by the first raised block 532 define a first structural interface 520 of the connector 500 that, save for its length, is substantially similar in structure and function to the first structural interface 230 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D.

Second raised blocks 542 are T-shaped and extend from the first and second outer surfaces 516, 526 in directions diametrically opposite each other. Like the T-shaped body of the connector 500, each second raised block 542 includes cross and stem portions on which are included one second planar surface 544. Further each second block 542 defines several recess and aperture (or recess) combinations 546, and thereby defines a second structural interface 540 of the connector 500 that has an overall T-shape. Aside from each's T-shape, the second structural interfaces 540 defined by the second raised blocks 542 of the connector 500 are substantially similar in structure and function to the second structural interfaces 240 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D. In addition, alternatives for the structural features that define each second structural interface 240 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D, are applicable and available for each second structural interface 540 of the connector 500 of FIG. 5A-D.

The first inner surface 518 of the cross-body 510 defines a third structural interface 560, and the second inner surface 528 of the stem-body 520 defines a fourth structural interface 570 of the connector 500. Similar to the inner surface 220 of connector 200 in FIGS. 2A-D, an annular ridge 562 extends radially inward from the first inner surface 518. Thus, in all respects, the third structural interface 560 defined by the first inner surface 518 is substantially similar in structure and function to the fourth structural interface 280 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D. Alternatives for the structural features that define the fourth structural interface 280 for the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D, are applicable and available for the third structural interface 560 of the connector 500 of FIG. 5A-D. With the exception of the annular ridges 224, 562, the same statements regarding structure, function, and alternatives (which includes adding an annular ridge) regarding the third structural interface 560, are applicable to the fourth structural interface 570 (see FIG. 5C) defined by the second inner surface 528 of the stem-body 520.

Sets of recesses 592 formed at the first, second, and third end-faces 512, 514, 522 of the T-shaped body shown in FIGS. 5A-D, each define a respective fifth structural interface 590 of the connector 500. Each fifth structural interface 590 is defined by its respective set of recesses 592 and substantially similar in structure and function to the fifth structural interface 290 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D. In addition, the same structural feature alternatives for the fifth structural interface 290 for the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D, are applicable and available for the fifth structural interfaces 290 of the connector 500 of FIG. 5A-D.

As shown in FIGS. 5A-D, the stem body 520 of the connector 500 extends from a middle portion of the cross-body 510, with the second axis 504 being perpendicular to the first axis 502. Accordingly, the exemplary T-shaped body of the connector 500 is symmetric about the second axis 504. In other examples, the stem body 520 may extend from another section of the cross-body 510 along the first axis 502 and/or at an angle of less than 90° with respect to the first axis 502. In these examples, the T-shaped body of the connector 500 may be asymmetric about the second axis, for example, while still being symmetric about a plane. Such a plane may be a vertical plane with respect to FIG. 5B, located at a depth relative to the connector corresponding to position of the second axis as illustrated in FIG. 5A.

FIG. 6A illustrates an isometric view of the connector 500 of FIGS. 5A-D. FIGS. 6B, 6C, and 6D each illustrate an isometric view of the connector 500 rotated from a position approximately 90° from a rotational position of the connector 500 as depicted in a respective previous figure. FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate sectional views of the exemplary connector 500 of FIGS. 5A-6D, from opposite sides of a horizontal plane with which a first axis, as shown in FIGS. 5B and 6A, is coincident.

FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional view of an exemplary connector 800 according to the present disclosure. The connector 800 of FIG. 8 is substantially similar to the connector 500 of FIGS. 5A-6D, an exception being a first inner surface 810 of a cross-body 820 of the connector 800 does not include an annular ridge. Accordingly, the same reference numbers will be used to refer to the same or like parts shared by the exemplary connector 500 of FIGS. 5A-6D and FIG. 8, and descriptions of these parts as identified in FIG. 8, may be omitted hereafter. In one example, the connector 800 can be formed through an injection molding process. Such a process may form or otherwise produce the first and second inner walls such that the channels 806, 808 they define have a draft of one (1) degree or more. As a result, starting from a respective end-face and moving towards an intersection between first and second axes 802, 804, each of the second inner surface 826 and sections of the first inner surface 816 on opposite sides of the second axis, may be formed to have a converging profile.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate isometric views of an exemplary connecter 900 according to the present disclosure. The connector 900 includes a body including sections that extend along three axes (hereafter referred to as a “three-axis body”). The three-axis body includes a wye-body 910 and a stem body 920. The wye body 910 includes a first leg 912 extending along a first axis 902 from a junction 908, and second leg 914, which extends along a second axis 904. As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the stem body 920 extends from the junction 908 with the wye-body 910 along a third axis 906. In some examples, each of the first and second legs 912, 914 or the stem body 920 can be provided at a right angle relative to the other two body portions. Those who are familiar with field systems as described herein, will recognize the shape of the connector 900 is similar to 90° fitting with a side outlet. However, it will be understood that the connector 900 may have configurations, such as one in which an angle between the first axis 902 and second axis 904 is greater than 90°. In other examples, one or both of the first and second axes 902, 904 may extend (and thus their respective legs) from the junction 908 at an angle less than or greater than 90°.

Each of the first and second legs 912, 914 of the wye-body 910 is substantially hollow and includes a first outer surface 916 and a first inner surface 918, between which there is formed a wall structure of appreciable thickness. Similarly, the stem body 920 is substantially hollow and includes a second outer surface 926 and a second inner surface 928 (not shown), between which is a respective wall structure of appreciable thickness. Each first inner surface 918 defines a respective first channel 919 that converges on the junction 908, as does a second channel 929 (not shown) defined by the second inner surface 928 (not shown).

As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the connector 900 includes the first outer surfaces and the second outer surface 916, 926 from which a plurality of raised blocks 942, 952, 962 extend in respective directions perpendicular to at least one of the first, second, and third axes 902, 904, 906. Each raised block defines a separate structural interface of the connector 900 that is configured to engage with a corresponding structural interface of an external component and couple that component to the connector 900.

More specifically, a first raised block 942 extends, in FIG. 9A, vertically from the first outer surfaces 916 of the wye body 910 as single block following a shape of the wye body 910, which can resemble a V-shape. As shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the first raised block 942 includes a first planar surface 944, and both the block and the surface are not segmented, particularly not at the junction, but are rather provided as an interrupted structure. The first raised block 942 includes first protrusions 946 that extend from the first planar surface 944. The configuration of accessible structural elements provided by the first raised block 942 define a first structural interface 940 of the connector 900 that, save for its V-shape, is substantially similar in structure and function to the first structural interface 230 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D.

In other examples, the first block 942 may be configured into multiple blocks separated by gaps along the first outer surfaces 916 in a manner like, for example, second raised blocks 952 of the connector 900. The second raised blocks 952 are linear in extent and rounded at their respective ends, and therefore resemble the second raised blocks 242 of the exemplary connector 200 illustrated in FIGS. 2A-D. As shown in FIG. 9B, a second block 952 extends respectively, from each first outer surface 916. In addition, another second block 952 extends from the second outer surface 926 and bridging portions of the first outer surfaces 916, 926 where these surfaces meet at the junction 908. Each second raised block 952 includes a second planar surface 954, and defines several recess and aperture (or recess) combinations 956. As will be appreciated from the present disclosure, the second raised blocks 952 define second structural interfaces 950 of the connector 900, that are substantially similar in structure and function to the second structural interfaces 240 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D. In addition, alternatives for the structural features that define each second structural interface 240 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D, are applicable and available for each second structural interfaces 950 of the connector 900 of FIGS. 9A and 9B.

Accordingly, each of the second raised blocks 952, considered individually, provides a first type of a second structural interface 950 for the connector 900. It will also be understood that a second type of second structural interface may be defined by a combination of the second raised blocks 952 provided on: the first and second legs 912, 914; the stem body 920 and either of the first or second legs 912, 914; or all three of these body portions. Accordingly, external components having a shape, length, or curvature that allows that component to bridge any two, or all of these of these second structural interfaces, may be coupled to the connector by engage with structural interfaces of the components.

A third unitary block 962 extends from each first outer surface 916 and the second outer surface 926 of the connector 900, as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B. Each unitary block includes a lip 964 and defines a single a recess and aperture (or recess) combination. Thus, each third unitary block 962 defines a third structural interface 960 of the connector 900. Each third structural interface 960 is substantially similar in function and structure as the structural features (recess and recess/recess and aperture) of the second structural interface 240 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D. Alternatives for the structural features that define the second structural interface 240, are applicable and available for the third structural interfaces 960 of the connector 900 of FIGS. 9A and 9B. Each third unitary raised block 962 defines a first type of the third structural interface 960 as described. In addition, a second type of third structural interface 960 may be defined by a combination of the third unitary raised blocks 962.

Each of the first inner surfaces 918 of the first and second legs 912, 914, and the second inner surface 928 of the stem body 920 define a fourth structural interface 970. Each of the legs and the stem extend from a respective end-face to the junction 908. One or all of the first and second inner surfaces 918, 928 may have a profile that forms a natural stop as discussed with respect to the connector of FIG. 8. In addition, the junction 908 may also serve, similar to an annular ridge, as a stop for pipe, tube, or rod being received by any of the stem body 920, and the first and second legs 912, 914. In other examples, an annular ridge can be formed by or otherwise provided by one or all of the first inner surfaces 918 and the second inner surface 928, respectively.

Thus, in substantially all respects, the fourth structural interfaces 970 are, or can be provided so as to be, substantially similar in structure and function as the fourth structural interface 280 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D, or the fourth structural interface 380 of the of the connector 300FIGS. 3A-D. Alternatives for the structural features that define the fourth structural interfaces 280, 380 for these connectors 200, 300, are applicable and available for the fourth structural interface 970 of the connector 900 of FIGS. 9A and 9B.

Sets of recesses 992 formed at end-faces 994 of the three-axis body shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, each define a respective fifth structural interface 990 of the connector 900. Each fifth structural interface 990 defined by its respective recesses 992 is substantially similar in structure and function to the fifth structural interface 290 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D.

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C respectively illustrate front, rear, and bottom isometric views of an exemplary connector 1000 according to the present disclosure. The connector 1000 includes a body that has a T-shape along two planes (hereafter referred to as a “double T-body”). The double T-body includes a T-shaped body 1010 and a stem body 1030. The T-shaped body 1010 includes a cross-body 1012 extending along a first axis 1002, and a leg 1020 extending along a second axis 1004. The stem body 1030 extends from a junction 1008 with the T-shaped body 1010 along a third axis 1006 to a fourth end-face 1038.

Each of the cross-body 1012 and the leg 1020 are substantially hollow, and together include a first outer surface 1014. Further, the cross-body 1012 includes a first inner surface 1016 that extends from a first end-face 1018 to a second end-face 1019, and the leg 1020 includes a second inner surface 1026 extending along the second axis 1004 from a third end-face 1022 to the junction 1008. Similarly, the stem body 1030 is substantially hollow and includes a second outer surface 1034 and a third inner surface 1036 (see FIG. 10C). The first, second, and third inner surfaces 1016, 1026, 1036 define first, second, and third channels 1017, 1027, 1037.

A first raised block 1042 extends, in FIGS. 10A and 10B, vertically from the first outer surface 1014. The first block 1042 also extends vertically relative a plane that is coincident with both the first and second axes 1002, 1004, and is one of planes along which the connector 1000 defines a first T-shape. The first T-shape is one and the same with the T-shaped body 1010, and the first block 1042 extends, as a single block, in two directions and follows a shape of T-shaped body 1010.

As shown in FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C, the first raised block 1042 includes a first planar surface 1044, and both the block and the surface are not segmented, but are rather provided as an interrupted structure. The first raised block 1042 includes first protrusions 1046 that extend from the first planar surface 1044. The configuration of structural elements provided by the first raised block 1042 define a first structural interface 1040 of the connector 1000 that, save for its T-shape, is substantially similar in structure and function to the first structural interface 230 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D.

A second raised block 1052 extends, in FIG. 10B, outwardly from the first and second outer surfaces 1014, 1034 in a direction away from the leg 1020. The second raised block 1052 also extends outwardly away from a plane that is coincident with both the first and third axes 1002, 1006, and is the plane along which the connector 1000 define a second T-shape 1031. The second raised block 1052 extends, as a single block, in two directions so as to include cross and stem portions on which is included a second planar surface 1054 similar to the connector 500 of FIGS. 5A-8B. The configuration of structural elements provided by the second raised block 1052 define a second structural interface 1050 of the connector 1000 that, save for its T-shape, is substantially similar in structure and function to the second structural interfaces 540 of the connector 500 of FIGS. 2A-D.

A third raised block 1062 extends from the first outer surface 1014: (1) on each side of the leg 1020 relative to the second axis 1004; and (2) from the cross-body 1012 on opposite sides of the junction 1008 in a direction away from the second raised block 1052. In addition, a third raised block 1062 extend from the second outer surface 1034, also in a direction away from the second raised block 1062. Each third raised block 1062 includes a third planar surface 1064, and defines at least one recess and aperture (or recess) combination 1066. Accordingly, each third raised block defines a third structural interface 1060 of the connector 1000.

Each recess and aperture combination 1066 is substantially similar in function and structure as the structural features (recess and recess/recess and aperture) combinations of the second structural interface 240 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D. Alternatives for the structural features that define that third structural interface 240, are applicable and available for the third structural interfaces 1060 of the connector 1000 of FIGS. 10A-C. Like the third unitary raised blocks of the connector 900, the third raised blocks 1062 define a first type of the third structural interface 1060, and a second type may be defined by a combination of the third raised blocks 1062.

Each of the first inner surfaces 1016 of the cross-body 1012, the second inner surface 1026 of the leg 1020, and the third inner surface 1036 of the stem body 1030 respectively define a fourth structural interface 1070. Each of the leg 1020, the stem body 1030, and portions of the cross-body 1012 on opposite sides of the third axis 1006, extend from a respective end-face to the junction 1008. Some or all of the inner surfaces may include an annular ridge formed thereon, or have a profile that forms a natural stop as discussed with respect to the connector of FIG. 8. In addition, the junction 1008 may also serve, similar to an annular ridge, as a stop for a pipe, tube, or rod being received by any of the stem body 1030, the leg 1020, or either side of the cross-body 1012. Thus, in substantially all respects, the fourth structural interfaces 1070 are, or can be provided so as to be, substantially similar in structure and function to the fourth structural interface 280 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D, or the fourth structural interface 380 of the of the connector 300FIGS. 3A-D. Alternatives for the structural features that define the fourth structural interfaces 280, 380, are applicable and available for the fourth structural interface 1070 of the connector 1000 of FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C.

Each set of recesses 1092 formed at the first, second, third, and fourth end-faces 1018, 1019, 1022, 1038 of the double T-body of the connector 1000, define a respective fifth structural interface 1090. Each fifth structural interface 1090 is substantially similar in structure and function to the fifth structural interface 1090 of the connector 200 of FIGS. 2A-D.

It will be understood that piping, tubing, or rods of different sizes, shapes, and surface configurations may be selected and used in combinations with connectors described herein, in accordance with the dimensions and shapes of channels, chambers, or otherwise voids that are defined by surfaces of the particular connectors provided for such combinations. Such a surface of a connector according to the present disclosure, whether continuous, segmented, ribbed, having undulations of some type, or otherwise shaped, defines one of several structural interfaces provided by that connector. It will be understood that connectors of the present disclosure can be utilized to couple to, and couple together, piping, tubing, or rods of different sizes, shapes, and surface configurations to construct assemblies and structures of innumerable configurations. The connectors illustrated in the figures of the present disclosure have, in large part, body portions that are cylindrical in shape and therefore have circular cross-sections. However, any portion or an entirety of a body that receives a pipe, tubing, rod, or the like for any connector described herein, can be provided so as to have a cross-section in a shape of a rectangle, square, triangle, a type of polygon, or any other shape corresponding to a shape of a cross-section of a pipe, tube, or rod-like component an individual desires to couple to a connector of the present disclosure.

Uses for the exemplary connectors of the present disclosure will be understood, both as to respective structures and operations, from the accompanying drawings, taken in conjunction with the accompanying description. It should be understood that various components, parts, and features of the different examples may be combined together and/or interchanged with one another, all of which are encompassed by the present disclosure, even though not all variations and particular examples are shown in the drawings. Thus, the various features of the examples described here are not mutually exclusive. Rather any feature of any example described here can be incorporated into any other suitable example. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only.

CONNECTOR WITH MULTIPLE STRUCTURAL INTERFACES

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