Patent Publication Number: US-8968046-B2

Title: Toy couplers including a plurality of block retaining channels

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/546,912 filed Oct. 13, 2011, entitled BUILDING SETS INCLUDING BLOCKS AND MAGNETIC COUPLING CLIPS, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/594,850 filed Feb. 3, 2012, entitled TOY COUPLERS INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF BLOCK RETAINING CHANNELS, each of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. The Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to toy building sets, particularly building sets including a plurality of blocks to be indirectly magnetically and/or frictionally coupled together. 
     2. The Relevant Technology 
     Various building sets have been used by children and others for decades for amusement and learning. Sets of blocks include a plurality of variously configured blocks that allow a user to stack the blocks on top of one another in order to form various structures or buildings. Stacking configurations that can be achieved are often limited as a result of gravity. 
     Other building sets have provided magnets sealed within blocks (e.g., U.S. Publication No. 2010/0242250), and multi-shaped non-metallic bodies employing disc shaped magnets so that two adjacent bodies may be magnetically connected together (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,749,480 and 5,746,638). U.S. Pat. No. 7,413,493 describes toy magnetic building blocks including a block, a casing affixed to the block, and a magnet within the casing. The magnet allows connections to be made with other similar blocks. As shown in  FIG. 10 , one embodiment may also include connectors with a collar to mechanically augment magnetic coupling of the blocks, in which narrowed ends of each block are received within opposite halves of the collar. 
     Such building systems are severely limited in their ability to build relatively realistic building structures such as those employing post and beam construction in which elongate blocks can be secured to one another in an erector like configuration, but in which connections can be more easily achieved (e.g., by a child between about 4 to about 8). As such, even with existing magnetic building systems, there remain difficulties to be overcome. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       To further clarify the above a more particular description of the disclosure will be rendered by reference to specific examples that are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical examples and are therefore not to be considered limiting. The examples will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary building set including a plurality of blocks and a plurality of magnetic coupling clips configured to frictionally engage a thickness of one or more of the blocks; 
         FIG. 2A  includes various views of an exemplary magnetic clip including a magnet within the clip base and a channel configured to frictionally engage a thickness of a block; 
         FIG. 2B  includes various views of another exemplary magnetic clip; 
         FIGS. 2C-2D  include perspective and cross-sectional views through clips similar to those of  FIGS. 2A-2B ; 
         FIGS. 3A-3C  are perspective views of various magnetic clips including two channels, each for engaging a thickness of a block; 
         FIGS. 3D-3E  are perspective views of clips similar to those shown in  FIG. 1  but each including an inclined floor surface; 
         FIG. 3F  is a perspective view of a clip including a plurality of channels arranged about a central body or sleeve in a “star” type configuration; 
         FIGS. 3G-3I  are perspective views of clips configured to receive an end of a cylindrical block, as well as a rectangular or square cross-section block; 
         FIGS. 3J-3O  are perspective views of various clips including a central sleeve for slidable reception of a block and further including a plurality of channels arranged about the central sleeve for receiving and retaining a thickness of additional blocks; 
         FIGS. 3P-3R  are perspective views of various clips including two channels, each for engaging a thickness of a block, where an angle between the channels is adjustable ( FIGS. 3P-3Q ) or fixed ( FIG. 3R ); 
         FIGS. 3S-3T  are perspective views of additional various clips including multiple channels and/or sleeves for engaging blocks to form a truss-like structure; 
         FIGS. 4A-4C  are perspective views of cylindrical, square, and specialized decorative block configurations, respectively; 
         FIG. 4D  is a perspective view of a block configured as a sheet (e.g., for a wall or roof); 
         FIG. 4E  is a perspective view of a sheet type block including windows; 
         FIG. 4F  is a perspective view of a stair type block; 
         FIG. 4G  is a perspective view of a ramp type block; 
         FIGS. 5A-5D  are perspective views of a square, a triangular, a polygonal, and a circular magnetic intermediate structure for use in providing a desired orientation between respective adjacent clips with the intermediate structure therebetween (e.g., such as clips shown in  FIG. 1  or any of the other figures); 
         FIG. 6A  is an isometric view of an alternative clip configuration including multiple channels; 
         FIG. 6B  is a cross-sectional view through the clip of  FIG. 6A ; and 
         FIG. 6C  is a close up plan view of a channel of the clip of  FIG. 6A . 
         FIGS. 7-13  show a perspective view, a front view, a back view, a side view, an opposing side view, a top view, and a bottom view, respectively, of an ornamental design of a clip according to the present invention, similar to that shown in  FIG. 6A . 
     
    
    
     Together with the following description, the figures demonstrate non-limiting features of exemplary devices and methods. The same reference numerals in different drawings represent similar, though not necessarily identical, elements. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The present invention is directed to building sets including a plurality of blocks and a plurality of clips configured to frictionally engage one or more of the blocks. The clips include a magnet enclosed within the clip, which facilitates coupling of various blocks (e.g., elongate “post” and “beam” type blocks) together (with a clip in between) in various configurations not possible when stacking blocks alone (e.g., arches, bridges, trusses, eaves, girders, posts, beams, and other structures and buildings) as a result of the strength of the magnetic coupling. The system allows connection of non-magnetic bodies (i.e., the blocks) into simulated life-like structures such as those noted above through the use of magnetically coupling clips that frictionally engage the blocks. In addition, because the connection between the block and clip is friction based, a high degree of freedom is available in placement of the clips (e.g., anywhere along a side, end, or face of a block, as the case may be for a given clip). 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , each block  102  of building set  100  may typically include a first face  104   a , an opposing second face  104   b , a first side  106   a , an opposed second side  106   b , a first end  108   a , and an opposed second end  108   b . Block  102  is shown as elongate, (i.e., a plank, post, or beam). In one embodiment, an exemplary elongate block may be about 120 mm long, about 25 mm wide, and about 8 mm thick. In one embodiment, the aspect ratio of length to width may be from about 3 to about 7 (e.g., about 5). In one embodiment, the aspect ratio of length to thickness may be from about 10 to about 20 (e.g., about 15). The thickness engaged by the clip  110  may be between about 5 and about 10 mm. Of course, blocks other than elongate blocks may be included within the plurality of blocks in the building set, although in one embodiment, at least some of the included blocks will be elongate (i.e., of the plank, post, beam variety). Of course, more complex block configurations are possible, including decorative features (e.g., as seen in  FIG. 4C ), as are blocks including rounded surfaces (e.g., as seen in  FIG. 4A ) where boundaries between faces, sides, or ends may not be discrete. In any case, such blocks are three dimensional, having thicknesses in x, y, and z dimensions. 
     The building set  100  further includes a plurality of clips  110  configured to engage a thickness of one or more of the blocks. In one embodiment, the clip might engage a thickness of multiple blocks stacked together. Exemplary clip  110  may include a base  112  including a floor  114  against which a surface of a block may be inserted during frictional engagement, and first and second extensions  116 ,  118  extending upwardly from base  112 . Extensions  116 ,  118  define a channel  120  therebetween and which may be open at a top end adjacent top ends of extensions  116 ,  118 . Channel  120  may also be open at either end, adjacent lateral ends of extensions  116 ,  118 , and floor  114 . Channel  120  advantageously has a width that is substantially equal (and slightly less than) the thickness of the block that is receivable and to be frictionally retained within channel  120 . For example, the thickness between faces  104   a  and  104   b  of illustrated block  102  may be substantially equal to the width of channel  120 , between extensions  116 ,  118  so that the extensions may frictionally retain block  102  when inserted into channel  120 . In another embodiment, a clip may be configured with a width of channel  120  that is substantially equal to the thickness between first and second sides  106   a  and  106   b  (i.e., to straddle this wider dimension of rectangular block  102 ). 
     In addition, it will be readily apparent that clip  110  may be positioned in a variety of locations along side  106   a ,  106   b , or ends  108   a ,  108   b  to straddle the thickness between faces  104   a  and  104   b . In other words, attachment of clip  110  to block  102  is not limited to only a single, or even a small number of locations, but may be slid to an infinite number of positions anywhere along sides  106   a ,  106   b , or ends  108   a ,  108   b . This characteristic provides an increased freedom in building that is not possible with fixed connection systems, in which connection is only possible at a single (or small number of) predetermined location(s). 
     In addition to the frictional retaining engagement provided by extensions  116  and  118  of clip  110 , clip  110  further includes a magnet enclosed therein (e.g., within base  112 ) so that base  112  of clip  110  may be coupled to the base of another clip when the enclosed magnets are positioned close to one another. Of course, a magnet may be enclosed elsewhere within clip (e.g., within one or more of extensions  116 ,  118 ) to provide magnetic coupling between any portion of two clips including encased magnets. This frictional engagement and magnetic engagement configuration allows blocks to be stacked or positioned adjacent to one another, typically with clips disposed in between, providing a much more robust connection between the blocks than is possible with simple stacking. 
     For example, blocks may be cantilevered much like a house of cards, while clips positioned in between individual blocks provide a much stronger connection throughout the entire structure. For example, it may be possible to lift such a structure off a floor or other supporting surface, while it maintains its structural integrity. In order to provide even better structural integrity, the building structure may include clips frictionally engaged on blocks at the bottom of the structure, adjacent the floor or other supporting surface, while the supporting surface comprises a magnetically attractable pad or building surface to which the clips (and thus the super-structure thereabove) are strongly magnetically coupled. 
     Also shown in  FIG. 1  is another block  102   a  having a thickness dimension between opposed faces that is the same as block  102 , and which could therefore also be engaged within channel  120  of clip  110 . Another configuration of a clip  110   a  similar to clip  110  is also shown in  FIG. 1 , the principal difference being that bottom  124   a  of the base of clip  102   a  is rounded, rather than being substantially flat, as is bottom  124  of base  112  of clip  110 . This configuration allows clip  110   a  to magnetically couple to clip  110  (or another clip  110   a ) at any desired angle between respective clip channels. In other words, the rounded bottom  124   a  of clip  110   a  can be rotated against bottom  124  of clip  110  to a desired angle. Blocks may be frictionally engaged within channels  120  of one or more clips  110 ,  110   a .  FIG. 2A  shows 6 views of clip  110  (4 elevation views as well as top and bottom views), while  FIG. 2B  shows the same views of clip  110   a . Other rounded or angled configurations to the clip bottom surfaces (or surfaces of extensions) are also possible (e.g., rounding outer surfaces of extensions  116 ,  118 , providing an angled surface to bottom  124 , etc.). 
     As described, each clip includes a magnet  122  encased within base  112  of clip  110 ,  110   a . Besides the difference in the configuration of exterior bottom surface  124 ,  FIGS. 2A-2B  also show alternative magnet configurations. Referring to clip  110  of  FIG. 2A , magnet  122  may be a generally cylindrical shaped magnet having a relatively short height to the cylinder, and which is oriented with the height axis of the cylinder generally parallel to the extensions  116 ,  118 . Such a shape may resemble a hockey puck. A pocket may be formed within base  112  that is slightly larger than magnet  122  so as to allow magnet  122  to rotate about its height axis. In another embodiment, magnet  122  may be fixed relative to base  122 , so that no rotation occurs. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2B  another configuration may include a generally cylindrical shaped magnet with a greater height dimension (i.e., greater height to diameter ratio), while the magnet may also be oriented differently, so that the height axis of magnet  122   a  is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the clip (e.g., resembling a rolling pin). In other words, the height axis of magnet  122   a  may be generally perpendicular to extensions  116 ,  118 . In the illustrated configuration, pocket  126  is oversized relative to magnet  122   a , so as to allow magnet  122  to rotate about its height axis, and perhaps even slide somewhat in the height direction of the cylinder. Puck shaped magnet  122  may sometimes commonly be referred to as a disc magnet, while rolling-pin shaped magnet  122   a  may commonly be referred to as a cylindrical magnet. A disc magnet may have a N and S on opposite surfaces of the disc. An alternative configuration may employ square or rectangular shaped magnets. In one embodiment, cylindrical magnets may be magnetized on the long axis of the cylinder. This may allow the magnet to pivot and rotate. Discs and similar shapes can magnetically couple along their edges. Of course any magnet configuration may be employed with any clip configuration (e.g., a “rolling pin” in an oversized pocket configuration may be used with a clip  110  including a planar exterior surface).  FIGS. 2C and 2D  show cut away views of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2A .  FIG. 2D  also shows a cut away view of an embodiment similar to that shown in  FIG. 2A  but with a “rolling pin” shaped magnet as in  FIG. 2B . 
     Strongly magnetic rare earth neodymium and/or samarium-cobalt magnets are particularly preferred, although other types of magnets (e.g., AlNiCo magnets, ceramic magnets, and/or ferrite magnets) may also be used. Permanent magnets are preferred. 
       FIGS. 3A-3C  show various clip configurations including two channels, although other two-channel configurations are also possible. The embodiment of  FIG. 3A  resembles two clips positioned with extensions adjacent to one another, and the orientation of the channels oriented 180° relative to one another. The embodiment of  FIG. 3B  resembles two clips positioned with the bottom surfaces of bases positioned adjacent to one another, with channels are oriented 180° relative to one another. The embodiment of  FIG. 3C  resembles two clips with the face surfaces of extensions positioned adjacent to one another and with the orientation of the channels aligned, to be parallel to, and next to, one another. Of course, such configurations could be made with two separate clips such as seen in  FIG. 2A , or could be molded or otherwise formed (e.g., machined) as an integral piece, as seen in  FIGS. 3A-3C . The illustrated clip includes a U or C shaped channel. Other embodiments may include channels or clip bodies that are angled, L shaped, T shaped, include any number (e.g., 3, 5, 7, etc.) radial connections.  FIGS. 3A and 3C  illustrate two channel configurations, although similar configurations including 3 or more channels could also be provided. 
       FIGS. 3D and 3E  show clips similar to the two configurations seen in  FIG. 1 , but in which the floor  114  of each is inclined towards one end of open channel  120 . Such a clip may be magnetically coupled to a clip as shown in  FIG. 1  in a configuration similar to that seen in any of  FIGS. 3A-3C  (e.g., as in  FIG. 3B ) to provide an angled relationship (e.g., greater than or less than 180°) between a block received within the channels of each clip. For example, the angle of the incline may be greater than 0 and less than 90°, between about 10° and about 80°, or between about 30° and about 60°, e.g., about 45°) 
       FIG. 3F  illustrates a star-like clip configuration resembling 8 clips positioned around a central sleeve or central body. The clip of  FIG. 3F  includes 8 channels  120 , while the central sleeve or body also includes center sleeve or hole  128  which is aligned with a central longitudinal axis of the clip of  FIG. 3F . Sleeve  128  may be open at both ends, or closed at a bottom end and open at only one end. Sleeve  128  may be sized to receive both a face-to-face thickness of a block as well as a side-to-side thickness of a block simultaneously. The sleeve or hole may be cylindrical to receive a cylindrical block, it may be rectangular to receive a rectangular block, or it may be as shown, including both rectangular and cylindrical features to be capable of receiving either. Where the bottom of sleeve or hole  128  is closed, a magnet may be disposed at the bottom of this closed bottom. 
     Although a particular configuration of a star-like clip is shown in  FIG. 3F , it will be understood that other similar configurations are also possible. For example, more or less than 8 channels could be included (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, etc.). In addition, they may be equally distributed about the central body, so angles therebetween are equal, or they may not be equally distributed, so angles therebetween are not all equal. In another embodiment, no central sleeve or hole may be present, but rather simply a solid body (i.e., as if hole  128  were filled). 
       FIGS. 3G-3I  illustrate clips that are configured to receive both a face-to-face and a side-to-side thickness of a block, which may be rectangular in cross-section or may be cylindrical (i.e., circular in cross-section). Other configurations will also be apparent to one of skill in the art in light of the present disclosure—e.g., a clip with an oval hole for receiving a block having an oval cross-section. Magnets may be disposed within the peripheral edges of body  212  of clip  200 . Where clip  200  is closed at the bottom rather than being an open sleeve, a magnet may be disposed within the body adjacent the closed bottom surface. 
       FIGS. 3J-3O  illustrate additional various relatively complex contemplated clip configurations including an optional sleeve or hole  128  (where a bottom of the hole is closed) and one or more channels  120  for retaining a thickness of a block. As shown, the various channels  120  may be arranged in any orientation relative to each other.  FIG. 3J  shows a clip including two channels  120  on opposite sides of a central sleeve or hole  128 , with the axis of the channels  120  parallel to one another and to the sleeve or hole (i.e., all 3 coparallel to one another). For example, in the illustrated orientation all channels and sleeve/hole are configured to receive block members in a substantially vertical orientation. 
       FIG. 3K  shows another example with only a single channel  120 , otherwise similar to the configuration of  FIG. 3J .  FIG. 3L  shows an example with 4 channels, similar to that of  FIG. 3J , but with additional channels  120  at either side of sleeve or hole  128 .  FIGS. 3M and 3N  show additional variations of such clip configurations. In  FIG. 3O , clip channels  119  are shown oriented transverse to clip channels  120 , so that if clip channel  120  secures a block in a vertical orientation, clip channels  119  may be used to secure blocks in horizontal orientations. Various additional configurations will be apparent to one of skill in the art in light of the present disclosure. 
       FIGS. 3P and 3Q  show a clip configuration including two channels, and in which the angle between channels  120  may be selectively altered. For example, one may rotate one half of the clip relative to the other half about a hinge structure to select any desired angle (e.g., between about 0 and about 90°, between about 10° and about 80°, or between about 30° and about 60°). Any suitable hinge structure may be employed within such a clip (e.g., a pin hinge, a ball joint, etc.). The clip adjustment mechanisms may remain where positioned (e.g., include a locking feature) so as to prevent the selected angle from changing without the user making the adjustment.  FIG. 3R  illustrates another configuration including an angle between channels  120 , but in which the angle is fixed, rather than adjustable. Any desired angle between 0 and 90° or within those ranges mentioned above may be provided. Such angled channel configurations may be particularly helpful for building the intersection of a wall with a roofline, or when building a truss or bridge structure. 
       FIGS. 3S-3T  show additional clip configurations, which clips include multiple channels and multiple sleeves or holes. The configuration shown in  FIG. 3S  shows a channel  119  oriented substantially transverse to channels  120 . In other words, end channels  120  may be oriented vertically, while channel  119  may be oriented horizontally. Top, center channel  120  is rotated 90° relative to horizontal channel  120  “into the page”.  FIG. 3T  shows a similar truss like clip configuration, but in which channel  119  is rotated to also be in a vertical orientation as channels  120 . Clips or blocks for use in construction of a toy bridge may include a string or cable attached to the block or clip that can be strung between structure to resemble suspension cables. The various clip configurations are shown to describe some of the contemplated configurations. It will be understood that numerous other configurations are also possible, and are intended to be within the scope of the present invention. 
     In a broad context of one embodiment, the various clip configurations may include a pair of substantially parallel extensions configured to receive and frictionally retain a thickness of a block, while the clip further includes a magnet within a base (and/or even the extensions) of the clip in order to magnetically couple the magnet of the clip to another magnet, or to a magnetically attractable material (e.g., to a metal box top or other magnetically attractable pad that can act as a building base). 
     In one embodiment, the building set may be packaged within a metallic box, in which the box lid may be used as such a building base to providing magnetic coupling to the magnetic clips. 
     The clips may be formed of plastic or any other suitable material (e.g., plastic, wood, metal, carbon fiber, etc.). They may be formed by injection molding, machining, or other suitable technique. The magnet(s) within each clip are advantageously encased within the plastic or other material so as to prevent them from falling out or otherwise becoming dislodged. In one embodiment, the clips are not formed of wood to prevent such an issue (although perhaps a wooden clip could include a magnet encased therein in which an access hole used to place the magnet is back filled with glue, composite, epoxy, etc. Various techniques of inserting one or more magnets into a block are disclosed in U.S. Publication No. 2010/0242250, herein incorporated by reference. Such techniques could be adapted for providing a magnet within any clip according to the present invention. In addition, in one embodiment, one or more of the provided blocks may include a magnet encased therein, although in one embodiment, no magnets are provided within the blocks, rather the magnets are frictionally connected to the blocks through use of the clips. In one embodiment, the clips may be formed by bonding two halves about the magnet(s) (e.g., through sonic bonding). 
       FIGS. 4A-4G  illustrate various contemplated block configurations in addition to those shown in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 4A  shows a cylindrical block,  FIG. 4B  a square cross-sectioned block, and  FIG. 4C  a specialty decorative block that may have various decorative patterns or shapes formed therein.  FIG. 4D  shows a block in the form of a relatively large sheet (e.g., with a thickness equal to that of the blocks of  FIG. 1  but with significantly greater width dimensions (e.g., 3 times greater, 5 times greater, or 7 times greater). Such a sheet may be used as a wall or roof panel when building, and the thickness of the sheet may be engaged by the clips.  FIG. 4E  shows a sheet similar to that of  FIG. 4D , but which includes windows formed therein.  FIG. 4F  shows a block in the shape of a set of stairs, while  FIG. 4G  shows a ramp. Any of such blocks may include a thickness (e.g., either face-to face, side to side, or end to end) that is engagable by a clip included within the building set. An attached photograph in the provisional application shows various additional block configurations. Another attached photograph of the provisional application shows how various plank, post, or beam elongate blocks may be frictionally engaged to clips, which in turn may be magnetically coupled to another clip to achieve various structural erector-like configurations simply not possible with existing magnetic block building sets. 
     In one embodiment, blocks may include any of various features incorporated therein. For example, the Figures show blocks shaped as stairs, walls, including windows, etc. Other configurations will also be apparent to one of skill in the art in light of the present disclosure. For example, a block may include a pulley incorporated into the block so that a width of the block may be engaged within a given clip, allowing the pulley (or other feature) to be indirectly coupled to the clip. 
     The blocks may be formed of any suitable material (wood, plastic, metal, carbon fiber, composite material, etc.). In one embodiment, the blocks are formed of wood or a plastic or composite material resembling wood. 
       FIGS. 5A-5D  shows intermediate structures for use in conjunction with the clips that also include a magnet disposed within the intermediate body, and which can be used with the magnetic clips in order to provide a desired orientation between the intermediate structure and two or more adjacent clips. For example,  FIG. 5A  shows a square or rectangular intermediate in which clips could be positioned (and magnetically coupled) along any of the 4 edges, or even the top or bottom surface of the intermediate structure.  FIG. 5B  shows a similar intermediate but including a 3-sided triangular configuration.  FIG. 5C  shows a polygonal intermediate structure including 7 sides, and  FIG. 5D  shows a circular configuration of an intermediate structure, which would allow clips to be positioned at any desired angle relative to one another (as opposed to a rectangular configuration as in  FIG. 5A  that is fixed at 90°, or a triangular configuration as in  FIG. 5B  fixed at 120°, or the configuration of  FIG. 5C  fixed at 51.4°). In one embodiment, one or more magnets may be disposed within the intermediate body at a location spaced apart from a center of the body, adjacent to a perimeter surface. For example, a rectangular intermediate body may include magnets positioned within the body adjacent to all 6 perimeter surfaces, while a triangular intermediate body may include magnets positioned within the body adjacent to all 3 perimeter surfaces. A circular intermediate body may include magnets location at various points inside of the circular body, relatively close to the perimeter exterior surface. In another embodiment, it may be possible to position a disc shaped or doughnut shaped magnet within the body to be adjacent to the entirety of the outer perimeter surfaces. Such intermediate structures may be formed of similar materials as described for the clips. 
     Another contemplated embodiment of a building set may include a plurality of elongate rods, or straight sided (e.g., square or rectangular) blocks or sticks that include a rounded bulb-shaped enlarged end (or such enlargements at two or more ends). Each rounded end would house a magnet enclosed within the bulb. The magnet within the enclosing bulb may be pivotable, like a ball joint to allow it to pivot as needed to correctly orient magnetic poles. Attached pictures illustrate the concept with q-tips including rubber cement at their enlarged rounded ends to simulate placement of such magnets. Such building structures could be connected in myriad ways because the enlarged tip (or at least the magnet housed therein) can rotate as much as about 360°. Sticks or rods of varying length could be provided, which can be magnetically coupled to one another. Such elongate rods could be used in conjunction with the previously described embodiments, or separately, without the need for clips to connect adjacent blocks. 
       FIGS. 6A-6C  show various views of an alternative clip configuration  310  that includes multiple channels  320 . Clip  310  may not include a magnet within the body, but rather includes multiple channels  320  that allows clip  310  to engage one or more blocks (e.g., such as rectangular block  102  of  FIG. 1 ). Any of the above described clip configurations including multiple channels could similarly be manufactured without a magnet encased within the body. 
     Clip  310  includes a central body  330  and a plurality of channels  320  disposed so as to extend from central body  330 . Although four channels are illustrated, it will be understood that more or fewer channels may be provided (e.g., 2, 3, 5, 6, etc.). While each channel  320  is illustrated as being configured with equal width, it will be understood that one or more of the channels may have a different width than another of the channels. In addition, while all channels are shown to be oriented in a particular orientation, it will be understood that one or more of the channels may be differently oriented (e.g., transverse). For example,  FIGS. 3O and 3S  illustrate embodiments of clips in which channels are oriented transverse to one another. 
     Each channel  320  of clip  310  includes a base  312  disposed on central body  330 . Each base  312  defines an interior floor surface  314  of each channel  320 . The sides of each channel  320  are bounded by extensions  316  and  318 , which are substantially parallel to each other. The interior surfaces of each extension within the channel  320  may consist of planar surfaces, without any protrusions formed thereon, as shown. Floor surface  314  may be a single planar surface, as shown. As described above, a thickness defined between opposed faces, sides, or ends of one or more blocks is receivable within any of channels  320 . The width of channel  320  is substantially equal to the thickness of the corresponding block that is retainably engaged within a given channel. As will be apparent from the disclosure and drawings, the described configuration allows the block to be rotated within the channel to form a variety of desired angles between the floor of the channel and a side or end of the block inserted into the channel. 
     As seen in  FIGS. 6A-6B , a centrally disposed cylindrical hole  328  may be provided within central body  330 . Hole  328  may be open at both ends (e.g., as a tunnel). A cylindrically configured block may be inserted within hole  328 . For example, an axle for a wheeled vehicle as shown in the attached photograph with the provisional filing may be inserted through hole  328 . Various other accessories (e.g., an anchor for a crane, hooks, pulleys, flags, windmill axles, etc.) may similarly be provided in this way. 
     Central body  330  and channels  320  may advantageously be configured to provide independence between the plurality of included channels. For example, insertion of a block into one channel does not substantially interfere with the ability of another channel of the clip  310  to retain a block with substantially the same retention force that would be provided if only a single channel had a block received therein. Some similar toy coupler configurations within the prior art suffer from lack of independence between individual coupling mechanisms of the device. For example, when a second block or piece is inserted within a second coupler mechanism, it may cause a first already inserted block or piece to fall out or be retained with a substantially reduced retention force (i.e., so that it may easily fall out if bumped or jarred). The ability to provide independence to each channel is particularly advantageous, as it allows any or all of the channels to be employed without risk that the structure will become unstable as a result of weakened retention force for the frictionally engaging channels. 
     Independence is provided through a combination of features of the central body, the channels themselves, and the material from which the clip is formed. For example, the clip may be injection molded from a relatively rigid plastic material such as polycarbonate. Rigidity of the material from which the clip is formed aids in providing the desired independence. Furthermore, the central body  330  may include a plurality of stabilizing ribs  332  extending outwardly from the cylindrical wall bounding central hole  328  towards a portion  334  of extensions  316  and  318  that extend beyond base  312 . The clip may include ribs that are substantially equally spaced between channels  320 , so that the clip includes an equal number of ribs  332  and channels  320 . Ribs  332  aid in preventing stresses and forces applied to extensions  316  and  318  from being transferred from one channel to the extensions of another channel of clip  310  when a block is retained within a given channel  320 . 
     Central body  330  may further include a plurality of flanges  336  centrally disposed between base  312  of channel  320 , portions  334  of extensions  316  and  318 , ribs  332 , and the cylindrical wall of hole  328 . The flange  336  may fill the area of space shown in  FIG. 6C  between these structures, without filling the entire depth of the clip, as reflected in  FIGS. 6A and 6B . For example, flange  336  may have a thickness approximately equal to that of extensions  316 ,  318 , base  312 , cylindrical wall defining hole  328 , or ribs  332  (e.g., as shown in  FIG. 6B ) 
       FIG. 6C  shows a close up plan view of one of channels  320  extending from body  330 , perhaps best showing the details of extensions  316  and  318 . As shown in  FIG. 6C , at least a portion of the interior surface of each extension  316 ,  318  defines an angle relative to floor  314  that is less than 90° so that extensions “pinch” the thickness of a block received within a given channel  320 , frictionally coupling the clip  310  to a block received within extensions  316 ,  318  of a respective channel  320 . As shown in  FIG. 6C , the interior surface of each extension  316 ,  318  may include four distinct portions. A first portion  338  is disposed adjacent to floor  314 , and is formed perpendicular (i.e., 90°) relative to floor  314 . A second portion  340  between the first portion  338  and a third portion  342  provides an angle relative to floor  314  that is less than 90°. For example, the angle between portion  340  and floor  314  may be from about 85° to less than 90°, or from 86° to 88° (e.g., 87°). A third portion  342  between second portion  340  and a fourth distal portion  344  may be formed so as to be perpendicular relative to floor  314 . Fourth distal portion  344  may be formed to be outwardly flared so as to provide an angle relative to floor  314  that is more than 90°. For example, the angle between portion  344  and floor  314  may be from 92° and 98° (e.g., 95°). 
     Depending on the tolerances achieved during manufacture, the four distinct differently angled surfaces may be somewhat muddled as a result of shrinkage of the plastic or other material during manufacture or other reasons. For example, a finished manufactured product may be readily observed to include at least two portions. For example, a proximal portion (e.g., corresponding to portions  338  and  340 ) may overall provide an angle relative to the floor that is less than 90°, while a more distal portion (e.g., corresponding to portion  342  and perhaps  344 ) provides an angle relative to floor  314  that is at least 90°. 
     The width of channel  320  may thus vary somewhat according to location within the channel  320 . For example, the width of channel  320  adjacent floor  314  may measure somewhat larger than the thickness of a block to be engaged within channel  320 . Channel width may progressively narrower through the portion of channel  320  corresponding to portion  340  (as portions  340  on each side of channel  320  are “pinch” angled). The width of channel  320  corresponding to distal portion  344  may quickly be somewhat larger (as a result of its outward flare) than the thickness of the block (e.g., similar to portion  338 ). As a result, substantially all of the frictionally engaging retention force for retaining a block within channel  320  may be provided along portion  342 . 
     In one embodiment, portion  342  may account for about 35% to about 45% (e.g., about 40%) of the depth of channel  320 . In one embodiment, the channel may have a length that is substantially equal to a dimension of a corresponding dimension of one or more of the blocks (e.g., about 23 mm). Width of channel  320  along corresponding to portions  338  may measure 0.310 inch, while the width at the opening of channel corresponding to portions  344  may measure 0.294 inch. For example, the width may narrow by about 1% to about 10% over the channel width (e.g., about 5%). 
     In addition to providing independence between the various channels of the clip  310 , the retaining force provided by each channel and a given block is preferably relatively strong, so as to prevent a block from falling out of a channel inadvertently. Of course, the retaining force provided requires that the dimension of the block to be retained be sized for use with the friction retaining channel. Where the dimensions are approximately equal, so that the block is frictionally retained within channel  320 , the features described above (e.g., pinching configuration of the interior surfaces of channel  320 , structural ribs  332  and flanges  336 , selection of a rigid plastic such as polycarbonate) provide a retaining force so that from about 1 lb to about 5 lbs of pull out force is required to pull a block that engages substantially all of the length of the channel out of the channel. In other words, where the block is sized smaller than the channel length, or only half or a portion of the block dimension is engaged within the channel (so that a plurality of blocks may be received within the same respective channel at the same time), or the block is only partially inserted into the channel while still being retained therein, which capabilities will be apparent from the drawings, the actual retention force will be less for that particular configuration, although the retaining force available when the channel length is fully engaged will be 1 lb to about 5 lbs. In another embodiment, the provided retaining force is from about 2 lbs to about 4 lbs of pull out force to pull the block out of the channel. 
     In testing the pull out force, 6 blocks of approximately equal size and shape (as shown in the photograph of the wheeled vehicle in the provisional application) were fully inserted within the illustrated clips and were pulled out. A fish scale was used to measure the weight or force required to achieve pull out. The results as shown in Table 1 below. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                 First Try 
                 Second Try 
                 Third Try 
                 Average 
               
               
                 Block 
                 (lbs) 
                 (lbs) 
                 (lbs) 
                 (lbs) 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                   
               
            
           
           
               
               
               
               
               
            
               
                 1 
                 3.5 
                 3.2 
                 3.0 
                 3.2 
               
               
                 2 
                 3.1 
                 3.3 
                 3.2 
                 3.2 
               
               
                 3 
                 4.0 
                 3.5 
                 4.0 
                 3.8 
               
               
                 4 
                 2 
                 2 
                 2 
                 2 
               
               
                 5 
                 3.5 
                 3.5 
                 3.2 
                 3.4 
               
               
                 6 
                 2.5 
                 2.7 
                 2.5 
                 2.6 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     It was observed that although the blocks were all approximately equally sized 8 mm×23 mm×118 mm, minor variances within the block dimension engaging the channel (i.e., 8 mm) have an effect on the retention force. For example, block  4  was observed to be somewhat thinner than the nominal 8 mm dimension, resulting in its lower retention values. Still, the retention value of 2 lbs will typically be sufficient for contemplated use. The particular configuration described in conjunction with  FIGS. 6A-6C  provides a retention force with the contemplated blocks that allows for self-supporting, large structures while allowing a young child (e.g., even a 3 or 5 year old) to connect them together without difficulty. Furthermore, independent retention of the blocks so that one engaged block does not substantially affect the retention force of the other engaged blocks is particularly beneficial. 
     It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
     The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.