Patent Publication Number: US-2020282323-A1

Title: System of Interlocking Building Blocks

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to building blocks, and more particularly to a system of building blocks that are assembled with additional snap-fit connectors. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Interconnectable building blocks are widely known. For example, toy building blocks include a variety of small blocks that are interconnectable with each other to form a larger construction. Some blocks include additional features, including for example a DC motor or an LED light. These building blocks can be used in combination with each other to form a powered construction, for example a small robot, a motorized toy train, or a remote controlled car. 
     Despite their widespread popularity, many existing building blocks systems are intended for use exclusively as a children&#39;s toy, and are poorly suited for use outdoors or for larger constructions. Accordingly, there remains a continued need for an improved system of interlocking building blocks. In particular, there remains a continued need for an improved system of building blocks that can appeal to hobbyists of all ages, while also allowing for the assembly and operation of motorized vehicles for recreational use by children and adults. In addition, an age-appropriate collection of building blocks is described and includes large soft blocks for the construction of small enclosures. Moreover, a collection of smaller blocks is described that, in one embodiment, can be used for modeling and animatronic constructions. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     An improved system of interlocking building blocks is provided. The system of interlocking building blocks includes a top block component and a bottom block component that are removably attached to each other to form a modular block with a hollow interior. The hollow interior can interchangeably receive a number of components, for example motors, electronics, and batteries. The exterior of the modular block includes a system of octagonal openings that are shaped to receive an octagonal tube for coupling adjacent modular blocks, or for receipt of a flange bearing or other type of bearing. Collectively, the system of interlocking blocks can be used to create a variety of robust constructions, including electrically powered scooters and go-carts, construction equipment or larger machines. 
     In one embodiment, the top block component includes a top wall, a bottom edge, and a first plurality of sidewalls that extend orthogonally from the top wall to the bottom edge. The bottom block component includes a bottom wall, a top edge, and a second plurality of sidewalls that extend orthogonally from the bottom wall to the top edge. The sidewalls have an interior surface and an opposing exterior surface. The top wall of the top block component and the bottom wall of the bottom block component each include a complementary array of vertically (orthogonally) disposed octagonal sockets and a complementary array of vertically (orthogonally) disposed hexagonal sockets. The vertically disposed octagonal sockets are disposed in multiple rows, with the octagonal sockets of each row being offset set with respect to the octagonal sockets of the adjacent rows. Similarly, the vertically disposed hexagonal sockets are disposed in multiple rows, with the hexagonal sockets of each row being offset set with respect to the hexagonal sockets of the adjacent rows. Each octagonal socket includes an octagonal hole with a flat bottom ledge, opening to a smaller-diameter octagonal hole. Each hexagonal socket includes a hexagonal hole with a flat bottom ledge, opening to a smaller-diameter cylindrical hole. In this respect, the octagonal sockets and the hexagonal sockets include a counterbore construction. The first and second sidewalls contact each other along an interface between the bottom edge of the top block component and the top edge of the bottom block component, and define horizontally disposed octagonal sockets and horizontally disposed hexagonal sockets. 
     In another embodiment, the octagonal tube is a snap fit connector that is shaped to interchangeably fit within the vertically disposed octagonal sockets and the horizontally disposed octagonal sockets. The octagonal tube is received within the octagonal socket of a first block and a second block to removably couple the first and second blocks together. The system also includes an octagonal rod that is shaped to interchangeably fit within each of the vertically disposed octagonal sockets and the horizontally disposed octagonal sockets, the rod being longer than the octagonal tube. 
     In another embodiment, a modular block includes two portions that are angled with respect to each other. This block includes an outer wall having a convex portion and a first plurality of sidewalls extending orthogonally from the outer wall. A second block component includes an outer wall having a corner portion and a second plurality of sidewalls extending orthogonally from the outer wall. The outer wall of the first block component and the outer wall of the second block component define a complementary array of octagonal sockets and a complementary array of hexagonal sockets, such that at least two of the octagonal sockets are orthogonal to each other and at least two of the hexagonal sockets are orthogonal to each other. The first and second sidewalls abut one another along an interface to define a v-shaped cross-section along the length of the interlocking block. 
     As discussed herein, the system of interlocking building blocks is suitable for hobbyists of all ages and can be used in the assembly of robust constructions, including scooters and go-carts. The interlocking blocks can be scaled down in size to enable the construction of smaller devices such as robots or other machines. The interlocking building blocks can alternatively include a system of monolithic blocks, scaled up in size, if desired, formed of foam for use by children in the creation of forts, castles, igloos and other constructions. The monolithic blocks can include the same arrangement of octagonal openings and octagonal tubes to couple adjoining blocks together, free of any tools. Accordingly, the system of interlocking building blocks provides added versatility, robustness, and appeal over many existing toy building blocks that are currently commercially available. 
     These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention, when viewed in accordance with the accompanying drawings and appended claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a system of interlocking blocks in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a block constituting a portion of the system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded view of the block of  FIG. 2 , illustrating a top block component and a bottom block component; 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of the top block component of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of the bottom block component of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a longitudinal side view of the top block component of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a lateral side view of the top block component of  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view of the top block component taken along line VIII-VIII of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of an octagonal tube of the system of interlocking blocks; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of an octagonal rod of the system of interlocking blocks; 
         FIG. 11  is a bottom perspective view of a corner block or right angle block of the system of interlocking blocks; 
         FIG. 12  is a top perspective view of the corner block or right angle block of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is an exploded view of the corner block or right angle block of  FIG. 11 , illustrating top block components and bottom block components; 
         FIG. 14  is a bottom perspective view of the corner block or right angle block component, showing nuts contained within recesses designed into the structure; 
         FIG. 15  is a side view of the corner block or right angle block of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a bottom perspective view of an elbow block or 45 degree block of the system of interlocking blocks; 
         FIG. 17  is a top perspective view of the elbow block or 45 degree block of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 18  is an exploded view of the elbow block or 45 degree block, illustrating top block components and bottom block components; 
         FIG. 19  is a bottom perspective view of the elbow block or 45 degree block component showing nuts contained within recesses designed into the structure; 
         FIG. 20  is a side view of the elbow block or 45 degree block of  FIG. 16 ; 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of another example of a block of the system of interlocking blocks; 
         FIG. 22  is an exploded view of the block of  FIG. 21 , showing nuts contained by recesses designed into the structure; 
         FIG. 23  is an exploded view of the system of interlocking blocks, illustrating an assembly of several blocks and connecting octagonal tubes and rods; 
         FIG. 24  is an exploded view of the system of interlocking blocks, illustrating an assembly of several blocks, including a corner block or right angle block and an elbow block or 45 degree block, and connecting octagonal tubes and rods; 
         FIG. 25  is an exploded view of a block of the system of interlocking blocks, including an alternate rod; 
         FIG. 26  is the block and alternate rod of  FIG. 25 , illustrating inserting bolts to secure the alternate rod within the block; 
         FIG. 27  is a top perspective view of the bottom block component including nuts installed therewithin; 
         FIG. 28  is an exploded view of adjacent blocks connected by a long bolt; 
         FIG. 29  is a view of the connected blocks of  FIG. 28 ; 
         FIG. 30  is an exploded view of a block of the system of interlocking blocks, including multiple alignment pegs; 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of different sized top blocks mated with different size bottom blocks; 
         FIG. 32  is a perspective view of two u-joint blocks and a cross of the system of interlocking blocks; 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of the two u-joint blocks joined by the cross of  FIG. 32 ; 
         FIG. 34  is a partially exploded view of the two u-joint blocks joined by the cross of  FIG. 32 ; 
         FIG. 35  is a perspective view of the cross of  FIG. 32 ; 
         FIG. 36  is a perspective view of a foam block in accordance with another embodiment; and 
         FIG. 37  is a top plan view of the foam block of  FIG. 36 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE CURRENT EMBODIMENTS 
     The invention as contemplated and disclosed herein includes a system of interlocking building blocks. The system includes multiple blocks having polygonal openings, for example octagonal and hexagonal openings, and includes snap-fit connectors used to join adjacent ones of the multiple blocks together. The blocks and connectors are the basic members of the system and can be joined together to build and create a generally limitless number of robust and modular structures and devices. A description of the interlocking blocks and connectors is set forth in Part I below, and a description of their use follows in Part II below. 
     I. Interlocking Blocks and Connectors 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-10 , an interlocking block system in accordance with one embodiment is illustrated and generally designated  10 . As discussed below, the interlocking block system  10  includes one or more blocks  12  and one or more connectors in the form of tubes  100  (shown in  FIG. 9 ) and rods  110  (shown in  FIG. 10 ). The block  12  is generally in the form of a rectangular cuboid, i.e., an object with six rectangular faces at right angles to each other; however, the block may be in the form of another three dimensional shape. In this embodiment, the block  12  is a cuboid having six rectangular faces at right angles to each other, being 6″×4″×2″, while in other embodiments the cuboid has different dimensions, for example 6′×4′×2′. As discussed below, the block  12  can be made up of two portions, namely a top block component  20  and a bottom block component  40 , to define a cavity therebetween. The top and bottom block components  20  and  40  may be substantially identical and/or mirror-image of one another, but need not be. 
     Further, the block  12  can be formed instead as a single component, for example a monolithic closed cell foam block or a monolithic open cell foam block. In this embodiment, the monolithic foam block  12  is a cuboid having six rectangular faces at right angles to each other, being 18″×12″×6″, while in other embodiments the cuboid can have different dimensions, for example 18′×12′×6′. Each rectangular face includes one or more octagonal sockets and one or more hexagonal sockets. Each octagonal socket includes an octagonal hole with a flat bottom ledge, opening to a smaller-diameter octagonal hole. Each hexagonal socket includes a hexagonal hole with a flat bottom ledge, opening to a smaller-diameter cylindrical hole. In this respect, the octagonal sockets and the hexagonal sockets include a counterbore. The octagonal sockets on opposing surfaces of the cuboid block  12  are aligned with each other, and the hexagonal sockets on opposing surfaces of the cuboid block  12  are aligned with each other. As used herein, sockets that are “aligned” with each other are coaxial, that is, defining a common longitudinal axis. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2 through 8 , the top block component  20  includes a top wall  22 , four sidewalls  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30 , and a bottom edge  32 . The sidewalls  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  extend orthogonally from the top wall  22  and terminate in the bottom edge  32 . The top wall  22  and each of the sidewalls  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  have an interior surface and an opposing exterior surface. Additionally, the bottom edge  32  of the top block component  20  includes one or more projections  34 , shown in  FIGS. 6-8 , and one or more recesses  36 , shown in  FIG. 3 . The projections  34  extend down beyond the bottom edge  32 , and the recesses  36  extend up into the top block component  20 . The projections  34  and recesses  36  are spaced about the bottom edge  32  of the top block component  20 . 
     The bottom block component  40  is substantially similar and complimentary to the top block component  20  and includes a bottom wall  42 , four sidewalls  44 ,  46 ,  48 ,  50 , and a top edge  52 . In one embodiment the bottom block component  40  and the top block component  20  are identical, but face each other and are rotated 180 degrees about their largest face with respect to the other block component. The sidewalls  44 ,  46 ,  48 ,  50 , extend orthogonally from the bottom wall  42  and terminate in the top edge  52 . The bottom wall  42  and each of the sidewalls  44 ,  46 ,  48 ,  50 , have an interior surface and an opposing exterior surface. Additionally, the top edge  52  of the bottom block component  40  includes one or more projections  54  and one or more recesses  56 . The projections  54  extend up beyond the top edge  52 , and the recesses  56  extend down into the bottom block component  40 . The projections  54  and recesses  56  are spaced about the top edge  52  of the bottom block component  40  as shown in  FIG. 3 . 
     Multiple vertical octagonal sockets  60   a  and vertical hexagonal sockets  80   a  extend down from the top wall  22  of the top block component  20 ; and multiple vertical octagonal sockets  60   b  and vertical hexagonal sockets  80   b  extend up from the bottom wall  42  of the bottom block component  40 . Further, the vertical octagonal sockets  60   a  are aligned with the vertical octagonal sockets  60   b  and the vertical hexagonal sockets  80   a  are aligned with the vertical hexagonal sockets  80   b.  Together, the octagonal sockets  60   a  and  60   b  define a complementary and interconnecting array of vertically disposed octagonal sockets  60 . Likewise, the hexagonal sockets  80   a  and  80   b  define a complementary and interconnecting array of vertically disposed hexagonal sockets  80 . Each octagonal socket includes an octagonal hole with a flat bottom ledge, opening to a smaller-diameter octagonal hole. Each hexagonal socket includes a hexagonal hole with a flat bottom ledge, opening to a smaller-diameter cylindrical hole. In this respect, the octagonal sockets and the hexagonal sockets include a counterbore. 
     The four sidewalls  24 ,  26 ,  28 ,  30  of the top block component  20  and the four sidewalls  44 ,  46 ,  48 ,  50  of the bottom block component  40  contact each other along an interface  58  between the bottom edge  32  of the top block component  20  and the top edge  52  of the bottom block component  40 . Portions of multiple horizontally disposed octagonal sockets  70   a  and  70   b  are formed adjacent each of the bottom and top ends  32 ,  52  of the top and bottom block components  20 ,  40 . Together, the octagonal sockets  70   a  and  70   b  define multiple horizontally disposed octagonal sockets  70 , best shown in  FIG. 2 . The horizontal octagonal sockets  70  extend between pairs of opposed sidewalls. Likewise, portions of one or more horizontally disposed hexagonal sockets  90   a  and  90   b  are formed adjacent each of the bottom and top edges  32 ,  52  of the top and bottom block components  20 ,  40 . Together, the horizontal hexagonal sockets  90   a  and  90   b  define a horizontally disposed hexagonal socket  90 . 
     The vertical and horizontal octagonal sockets  60 ,  70  each include a stepped area that decreases at an octagonal ledge or shoulder  62  and  72 , respectively. The vertical and horizontal hexagonal sockets  80 ,  90  include a stepped area that decreases at a circular ledge or shoulder  82 ,  92 . The octagonal sockets  60 ,  70  define a cross-sectional area, the hexagonal sockets  80 ,  90  define a cross-sectional area, and the cross-sectional area of the octagonal sockets  60 ,  70  is greater than the cross-sectional area of the hexagonal sockets  80 ,  90 . Stated differently, the octagonal sockets  60 ,  70  are generally larger than the hexagonal sockets  80 ,  90 . Further, the vertical octagonal sockets  60  include a ledge depth  64  (see  FIGS. 6 and 8 ) that is defined as the distance between the top wall  22  or the bottom wall  42 , and the respective octagonal shoulder  62 , being equal to the height of sidewalls  62  in  FIG. 8 . Likewise, the horizontal octagonal sockets  70  include a ledge depth  74  (see  FIG. 5 ) that is defined as the distance between the side walls  22 - 30 ,  44 - 50  and the respective octagonal shoulder  72 . 
     The system of interlocking blocks  10  includes an octagonal snap-fit connector, separate from the blocks, and that joins any adjacent two blocks together by non-adhesive interference fit or friction fit. Referring to  FIG. 9 , the octagonal snap-fit connector can include an octagonal tube  100 . The octagonal tube  100  is a hollow, octagonal-shaped tube that is sized and shaped to interchangeably fit within each or any of the vertically disposed octagonal sockets  60  and the horizontally disposed octagonal sockets  70 . The octagonal tube  100  has an exterior surface  100   a  and an interior surface  100   b.  Each of the eight faces or sides of the exterior surface  100   a  includes a raised rib  102  extending in the longitudinal direction of the octagonal tube  100 . In addition, the octagonal tube  100  is sized to have a length that is slightly less than twice the ledge depth  64 ,  74 . As will be discussed further below, the octagonal tube  100  and rib  102  are sized to fit snugly into the octagonal sockets  60 ,  70 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , the interlocking block system  10  includes one or more connecting octagonal rods  110 . The octagonal rod  110  is an elongated, hollow or solid, octagonal-shaped rod that is sized and shaped to interchangeably fit within each or any of the vertically disposed octagonal sockets  60  and the horizontally disposed octagonal sockets  70 . The rod  110  has an exterior surface  110   a  and an interior surface  110   b.  The rod  110  can be provided in lengths ranging from at least the depth, width, and/or length of the block  12  to at least twice the depth, width, and/or length of the block  12 . The length of the rod  110  is provided such that external accessories or components can be attached to the block  12  via the rod  110 . Further, the length of the rod  110  can be provided such that two adjacent blocks  12  can be connected, where the rod  110  extends through both blocks  12 . 
     As further shown in  FIG. 3 , each corner of the bottom block component  40  includes either of a projection  54  or a recess  56 . In corresponding fashion, each corner of the top block component  20  includes either of a recess  36  or a projection  34 . The top block component  20  further includes one or more towers  116   a  and the bottom block component  40  further includes one or more towers  116   b.  Tower  116   a  extend down from the top block component  20  and tower  116   b  extends up from the bottom block component  40 . Each tower includes two projections  34 ,  54  and two recesses  36 ,  56 , such that tower  116   a  releasably engages tower  116   b  by interference fit or friction fit. Referring back to  FIGS. 3, 5 and 8 , a central tower  116   b  ( FIGS. 3, 5 ) extends up from the bottom wall  42  of the bottom block component  40 ; and a central tower  116   a  ( FIG. 8 ) extends down from the top wall  22  of the top block component  20 . The central towers  116   a,    116   b  have a respective bottom edge  118   a  ( FIG. 8 ) and top edge  118   b  ( FIGS. 3, 5 ) that contact along the interface  58 . The towers  116   a,    116   b  include projections  34 ,  54  that extend from the edge  118   a,    118   b  of the towers  116   a,    116   b,  and recesses  36 ,  56  that extend into the towers  116   a,    116   b.  The towers  116   a,    116   b  include a nut-shaped recess  120  disposed adjacent the bottom and top edges  118   a,    118   b.  The nut-shaped recess  120  is configured to receive a standard sized hex nut  122 , for example a ¼″ thread diameter hex nut ( 7/16″ across the flats) as shown in  FIG. 2, 25 , and best shown in  FIG. 27 . The nut-shaped recess  120  can be sized and shaped, for example a hexagon, to hold the nut  122  and prevent it from turning when a bolt is threaded into the nut  122 . 
     When the top block component  20  and the bottom block component  40  are assembled or mated together, the block components  20 ,  40  contact each other along the interface  58  between the bottom edge  32  of the top block component  20  and the top edge  52  of the bottom block component  40 . The projections  34  of the top block component  20  are received within recesses  56  of the bottom block component  40  and vice versa. The projections  34 ,  54  and recesses  36 ,  56  can have a snap fit interface. Optionally, the block components  20 ,  40  can include and adhesive along the interface  58  to secure the components together. Further optionally or alternatively, the block components  20 ,  40  can be ultrasonically welded together. 
     The block components  20  and  40  can also be secured together with a conventional nut  122  and bolt  124 . The nut  122  is placed into one of the vertical hexagonal sockets  80 , and the bolt  124  extends through the block  12  and is threaded into the nut  122 . The nut  122  and bolt  124  are tightened against the circular shoulders  82  of the hexagonal socket  80 . Multiple nuts  122  and bolts  124  can be used to secure the block components  20 ,  40  together. The nut  122  and nut-shaped recess  120  of the tower  116   a,    116   b  are co-axially aligned with the horizontal hexagonal socket  90 . With the top and bottom block components  20 ,  40  mated, the nut-shaped recess  120  is formed in part by each of the top block component  20  and the bottom block component  40 . Accordingly, a bolt (not shown) can extend through the sidewalls of the block components  20 ,  40  and be threaded into the nut  122  to secure an accessory or component to the block  12 , as described further below. The bolt  124  can include a circular head with a recessed drive, for example a hex drive, a torx drive, or other drive. The head of the bolt tightens against the circular shoulder  92  of the horizontal hexagonal socket  90 . 
     The top wall  22  of the top block component  20  and the bottom wall  42  of the bottom block component  40  are spaced apart and define a cavity  98  within the block  12 . Components useful to the block system  10  can be provided within the cavity  98 ; for example, a battery, motor, a pump, etc. The block  12  can be disassembled to gain access into the cavity  98  to replace components housed within the cavity  98 , etc. 
     According to a second embodiment, the interlocking block system  10  includes a corner block or right angle block  212 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 11-15 . The corner block  212  is structurally and functionally similar to the block  12  of  FIGS. 1-8 , with like numbers corresponding to like features (e.g., socket  60  from  FIGS. 1-8  is renumbered socket  260  in  FIGS. 11-15 ), except that the walls  222 ,  224 ,  226 ,  228 ,  230 ,  242 ,  244 ,  246 ,  248  are arranged to define a v-shaped cross-section along the length of the corner block  212 . That is to say, the walls  222 ,  224 ,  226 ,  228   230 ,  242 ,  244 ,  246 ,  248  include a substantially right angle. The top outer wall  222  of the first block component  220  has a convex portion  230 , and the bottom outer wall  242  of the second block component  240  has a corner portion  232 . The octagonal sockets  260  are orthogonal to one another, and the hexagonal sockets  280  are orthogonal to one another. Optionally, the top outer wall  222  can be formed by two mitered walls  222   a  and  222   b  and the bottom outer wall  242  can be formed by two mitered walls  242   a  and  242   b.    
     According to a third embodiment, the interlocking block system  10  includes an elbow block or 45 degree block  312 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 16-20 . The elbow block  312  is structurally and functionally similar to the block  12  of  FIGS. 1-8 , with like numbers corresponding to like features (e.g., socket  60  from  FIGS. 1-8  is renumbered socket  360  in  FIGS. 16-19 ), except that the sidewalls  322 ,  324 ,  326 ,  328   330 ,  342 ,  344 ,  346 ,  348  include an angle. The top outer wall  322  of the first block component  320  has a convex portion  330 , and the bottom outer wall  342  of the second block component  340  has an angled portion  332 . The octagonal sockets  360  are arranged at an angle to one another, and the hexagonal sockets  380  are arranged at an angle to one another. Optionally, the top outer wall  322  can be formed by two mitered walls  322   a  and  322   b  and the bottom outer wall  342  can be formed by two mitered walls  342   a  and  342   b.    
     It should be understood that any of the above described blocks could be provided in greater or lesser lengths and/or widths. For example, the block  12  illustrated in  FIG. 2  is said to be a 2×3 block, meaning it has two lateral or outside rows of sockets  60 , each row including three sockets  60 . Another example shown in  FIGS. 21 and 22 , the block can be a 1×2 block. The block  412  of  FIGS. 21 and 22  in accordance with a fourth embodiment is structurally and functionally similar to the block  12  of  FIGS. 1-8 , with like numbers corresponding to like features (e.g., socket  60  from  FIGS. 1-8  is renumbered socket  460  in  FIGS. 21-22 ), except that the block  412  of  FIGS. 21 and 22  is a 1×2 block. Other examples include a 1×3 block, a 3×3 block, a 2×4 block, etc. Further, the corner and elbow blocks  212 ,  312  could be provided in greater or lesser lengths and/or widths as well, and at angles other than 90 and 45 degrees. 
     According to yet another embodiment, the interlocking block system  10  includes an alternate rod  710 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 25-26 . The rod  710  is structurally and functionally similar to the rod  110  of  FIGS. 1-8 , with like numbers corresponding to like features (e.g., rod  110  from  FIGS. 1-8  is renumbered rod  710  in  FIGS. 25-26 ), except that the rod  710  includes multiple through holes  712 . The holes  712  are aligned on opposite sides of the rod  710  such that bolt(s)  124  can pass through the rod  710 . The bolt  124  is inserted into the horizontal hexagonal socket  690 , extending through the aligned through holes  712  of the rod  710 , and is threaded into a nut  122  installed in the nut-shaped recess  720  in the central tower  716   a,    716   b.  This arrangement secures the rod  710  within the block  612  such that external accessories or components can be attached to the block  612  via the rod  710 . Similarly, a bolt  124  can extend through the vertical hexagonal socket  680  and aligned holes  712  of the rod  710  to secure the block components  620  and  640  together, even with a rod  710  installed through the block  612 . 
     According to another embodiment, the interlocking block system  10  includes a long bolt  924 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 28 and 29 , with like numbers corresponding to like features (e.g., bolt  124  is renumbered bolt  924  in  FIGS. 27-29 ). The long bolt  924  is long enough to pass through the hexagonal socket  890  of the block  812  and into an adjacent block  812 ′ to engage the nut  122  seated in the recess  920  within that block  812 ′. Utilizing the long bolt  724  provides another means of affixing adjacent blocks together. 
     According to yet another embodiment, the interlocking block system  10  includes a peg  926 , as illustrated in  FIG. 30 , with like numbers corresponding to like features. The peg  926  is illustrated as substantially barrel-shaped with tapered half-portions; however, other suitable shapes are also contemplated. For example, the peg  926  can include an eight-side exterior and a cylindrical interior through-hole. The eight-side exterior can taper from its middle to its end portions along the longitudinal direction of the peg  926 . The peg  926  is sized and shaped to be inserted into the block component  820 ,  840  corner recesses  836 ,  856  and tower recesses and are used instead of (or in addition to) the projections  834 ,  854  of the embodiments described above. For example, the bottom block component  840  can include only corner recesses and tower recesses, and the top block component  820  can include only corner recesses and tower recesses, such that pegs  926  are used to secure the bottom block component  840  to the top block component  820  by interference fit of friction fit without the use of projections  834 ,  854 . The pegs  926  align the two block components  820 ,  840  as they are joined together. The pegs  926  also allow two block components to be offset from one another and form larger blocks from multiple different-sized block components. For example,  FIG. 31  shows a new 2×4 block that can be created by securing a 2×3 top block component  820  to a 2×3 bottom block component  840 , having offset them from one another by one octagonal unit. The “overhangs” are then completed by securing a 1×2 top block component  820 ′ and a 1×2 bottom block component  840 ′ thus completing the new 2×4 block. 
     According to another embodiment, the interlocking block system  10  includes a u-joint block  1012 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 32-35 . The u-joint block  1012  is structurally and functionally similar to the block  12  of  FIGS. 1-8 , with like numbers corresponding to like features (e.g., top block component  20  from  FIGS. 1-8  is renumbered top block component  1020  in  FIGS. 32-35 ), except that the sidewall includes a u-shaped yoke  1104  extending therefrom. The yoke  1104  includes spaced yoke arms  1105  that include holes  1106  at the distal ends of the yoke arms  1105 , and a yoke hub  1107  that extends between the yoke arms  1105 . 
     Two u-joint blocks  1012  can be joined together with a spider, journal, or cross  1108 , as commonly referred to by those skilled in the art. In the example illustrated in  FIG. 35 , the cross  1108  is an octagonal member that includes four trunnions  1109  extending therefrom. The trunnions  1109  are received within the holes  1106 ,  1106 ′ in the yoke arms  1105 ,  1105 ′ of the u-joint blocks  1012 ,  1012 ′. The cross  1108  is installed in blocks  1012 ,  1012 ′ before the top block components  1020 ,  1020 ′ and the bottom block components  1040 ,  1040 ′ are assembled or mated together such that the trunnions  1109  are captured within the yoke arm holes  1106 ,  1106 ′. This arrangement provides a pivotable coupling of two u-joint blocks  1012 ,  1012 ′; the blocks  1012 ,  1012 ′ are oriented orthogonal to one another, and are able to pivot independent of one another about the trunnions  1109  of the cross  1108  to which they are each joined. 
     A foam block in accordance with a further embodiment is depicted in  FIGS. 36-37  and generally designated  1212 . In this embodiment, the foam block  1212  is a unitary element formed of closed cell foam or open cell foam. The foam block  1212  is a cuboid having an outer surface  1214  defining six rectangular faces at right angles to each other. Each rectangular face includes one or more polygonal openings  1216 . As shown in  FIG. 37 , upper and lower rectangular faces include eight octagonal openings  1216  extending entirely through the foam block  1212  as through-holes. The eight octagonal openings are disposed in three rows, with the octagons of each row being offset set with respect to the octagons of the adjacent rows. The side rectangular faces also include two or three octagonal openings  1216  extending entirely through the foam block  1212  as through-holes. The octagonal openings on opposing side surfaces of the foam block  1212  are aligned with each other, such that opposing surfaces are mirror images of each other. The octagonal through-holes are die-cut in the current embodiment, while in other embodiments the octagonal through-holes are co-molded with the foam block  1212 . The blocks described above can also be formed from foam in like manner, including blocks  12 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  1012  for example. The blocks need not be cuboids as shown in  FIGS. 36 and 37 , but may be polyhedrons of any kind to allow the construction of various non-orthogonal structures. 
     II. System of Interlocking Blocks and Connectors 
     The interlocking block system  10  can include multiple blocks  12 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  612 ,  812 ,  1012 ,  1212  and connectors  100 ,  110 ,  710  used to join adjacent blocks together. The blocks  12 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  612 ,  812 ,  1012 ,  1212  and connectors  100 ,  110 ,  710  can be joined together to build and create a generally limitless number of robust and modular structures and devices. Further, the interlocking block system  10  can be used with a variety of add-on components or accessories. These components and accessories can be mounted to or within any of blocks  12 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  612 ,  812  or  1012  to provide structure and/or function to the blocks. For example, a battery could be included within one of the blocks to power a motor mounted to a block. As another example, an axle could extend through coaxial flange bushings or other bearings contained within any two coaxial sockets, and wheels could be attached to the axle. Accordingly, the blocks could be utilized to create part of a motorized vehicle, for example, a scooter or a go-cart. 
     The blocks  12 ,  212 ,  312 ,  412 ,  612 ,  812 ,  1012  can be provided to the user in pre-assembled block form, or as unassembled blocks of individual components. In the case that the blocks  12  are not pre-assembled, the user aligns the top and bottom block components  20 ,  40  such that the projections  34  of the top block component  20  are received within recesses  56  of the bottom block component  40  and vice versa. Alternatively, the block components  20 ,  40  can include only recesses, such that pegs  926  are used to secure the bottom block component to the top block component without the use of projections  34 ,  54 . If desired, a battery or other accessory or component can be placed within the block cavity  98  before assembling the block components  20 ,  40  together. The projections  34 ,  54  and recesses  36 ,  56  have a snap fit interface, providing at least temporary assembly of the block components  20 ,  40 . To further secure the block components  20 ,  40  together, the user can place a nut  122  within a selected hexagonal socket  80  and thread a bolt  124 , extending from the opposite side of the block  12  through the hexagonal socket  80 , into the nut  122 . Additional nuts and bolts can be utilized within the hexagonal sockets  80  as desired. The corner and elbow blocks  212 ,  312  are assembled in a similar manner. Alternatively, pegs  926  can be inserted into the corner recesses  836 ,  856  to align the two block components  820 ,  840  as they are joined together. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 23 and 24 , assembled first and second blocks  12 ,  12 ′ and block  412 , for example, can be joined together to create a structure. The octagonal tubes  100 , octagonal rods  110 , and/or rods  710  are used to removably join the first and second blocks  12 ,  12 ′. The octagonal tube  100  is inserted into one of the octagonal sockets  60 ,  70  of the first or second block  12 ,  12 ′. The other of the first or second block  12 ,  12 ′ can be aligned as desired so that the free end of the octagonal tube  100  can be inserted into a selected octagonal socket  60 ,  70  of the remaining block. Multiple tubes  100  can be used to join adjacent blocks together. Further, the ribs  102  positioned around the exterior surface  100   a  of the tube  100  provide a snug, interference, or press fit to join adjacent blocks together. The blocks can be joined together in any viable arrangement where octagonal sockets  60 ,  70  can be aligned. Corner and elbow blocks  212 ,  312  can be joined with any of the aforementioned blocks, in a similar manner, to create the structure also. Further, any of the aforementioned blocks and connectors can be joined with the u-joint block(s)  1012  to provide a pivotable joint between adjoined blocks. 
     Further, octagonal rods  110  and/or rods  710  can be inserted through first and/or second blocks  12 ,  12 ′ to mount accessories or other components to the assembled blocks, for example. The octagonal rods  110 ,  710  are sized to fit through the octagonal tube  100 . So, even with a tube  100  installed, the particular socket  60 ,  70  can still be used to install an elongated rod  110 ,  710  therethrough. Additionally, a bolt  124 ,  724  (see  FIGS. 3, 25, 26, and 28 ) can be inserted into the horizontal hexagonal socket  90 , extending through the sidewall of the block  12  and be threaded into the nut  122  that has been installed into the nut-shaped recess in the central tower  116   a,    116   b.  The bolt can be utilized to secure an accessory component to the block  12 . Further, the long bolt  724  is long enough to pass through the first block  12  and into an adjacent block  12 ′ to engage the nut  122  seated within that block  12 ′. Utilizing the long bolt  724  provides another way for a user to affix adjacent blocks together. Of course, multiple sets of nuts and bolts can be utilized. 
     Referring to  FIG. 31 , different sized block components can be assembled together in a mixed configuration, utilizing the pegs  926 . In the example illustrated in  FIG. 31 , the top block components include: a 2×3 top block component  820  and a 1×2 top block component  820 ′; the bottom block components include (recited in the same order as the top block components): a 1×2 bottom block component  840 ′ and a 2×3 bottom block component  840 . Together, this assembly creates a 2×4 block. Utilizing the pegs  926  in the corner recesses  836 ,  856  aligns the corners of the block components, and then a nut  122  and bolt  124  can be installed to secure the components together, or they can be secured with adhesive or sonically welded. 
     The interlocking building block system  10  described herein provides enhanced functionality and creativity for people of all ages, including children and young adults, by fostering their imagination to build and create robust and modular structures and devices using the blocks and connecting components. 
     The above description is that of current embodiments of the invention. Various alterations and changes can be made without departing from the spirit and broader aspects of the invention as defined in the appended claims, which are to be interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law including the doctrine of equivalents. This disclosure is presented for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted as an exhaustive description of all embodiments of the invention or to limit the scope of the claims to the specific elements illustrated or described in connection with these embodiments. Any reference to elements in the singular, for example, using the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” or “said,” is not to be construed as limiting the element to the singular.