Patent Publication Number: US-2019190193-A1

Title: Modular electronic building systems and methods of using the same

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is related to co-pending U.S. provisional patent application having Attorney Docket No. LIBI-006/00US 317728-2072, filed on the same date as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/975,923, entitled “Modular Electronic Building Systems with Magnetic Interconnections and Methods of Using the Same,” filed Aug. 26, 2013, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/728,103, entitled “Modular Electronic Building Systems with Magnetic Interconnections and Methods of Using the Same,” filed Nov. 19, 2012, and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/593,891, entitled “Modular Electronic Building Systems with Magnetic Interconnections and Methods of Using the Same,” filed Aug. 24, 2012, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/527,860, filed Aug. 26, 2011, each of the disclosures of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     This application is also related to U.S. patent application Ser. No 15/228,707, entitled “Modular Electronic Building Systems with Magnetic Interconnections and Methods of Using the Same,” filed Aug. 4, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/696,922, entitled “Modular Electronic Building Systems with Magnetic Interconnections and Methods of Using the Same,” filed Apr. 27, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/593,891, entitled “Modular Electronic Building Systems with Magnetic Interconnections and Methods of Using the Same,” filed Aug. 24, 2012, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/527,860, filed Aug. 26, 2011, each of the disclosures of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Embodiments are described herein that relate to devices and methods used in the field of electronics and, more particularly, to electronic building blocks and toy building sets. 
     Some known building block systems can include inter-connectable electronic components that can be used to create various projects, toys and electronic products. Some such systems can be intimidating, time consuming, and demand an expert skill set, as well as specialized hardware/software platforms. This makes building objects with lights, sounds, buttons and other electronic components very difficult and prohibitive to, for example, kids, young students, designers, non-engineers, and others lacking electronics experience. However, as advances in the miniaturization of technology increase, the need for electronics to be more accessible to non-experts in a cost effective manner continues to grow. Some electronic building systems exist that have been simplified to allow users to be able to design and assemble electronic products, objects, items, etc. without specialized skills; with the ever changing technology of electronics and the desire of people to experience new challenges, however, the need for improved electronic building systems continues to increase. 
     Thus, a need exists for a new and/or improved simple, easy to use, accessible electronic building block system that can enable the design and assembly of complex, interdependent systems. Such a system would enhance learning, enable experimentation and promote innovation. A need also exists for a building block system that can be used in conjunction with and be inter-connectable with other building block systems, and/or to be used or combined with other traditional materials such as paper, cardboard, screws, or other electronic components. 
     SUMMARY 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a first connector that includes a housing having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface. The housing defines a receptacle between the top surface and the bottom surface of the housing. The receptacle has a first end open at the top surface and a second end opposite the first end that is closed. A magnet is disposed within the receptacle. A circuit board having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface is permanently coupled to the first connector such that a bottom surface of the circuit board contacts the top surface of the housing of the first connector and the circuit board covers the first end of the receptacle preventing the magnet from being removed from the receptacle. The first connector is configured to be removably coupled to a second connector such that a front surface of the housing of the first connector engages a front surface of a housing of the second connector and the magnet disposed within the receptacle of the housing of the first connector magnetically couples to a magnet of the second connector. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         FIG. 1A  is a schematic illustration of an electronic building system, according to an embodiment. 
         FIGS. 1B-1D  are each a schematic illustration of a side view of a module of an electronic building system, according to an embodiment, and  FIG. 1E  is a schematic illustration of a top view of the three modules of  FIGS. 1B-1D  coupled together. 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of a module of an electronic building system, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is a bottom view of the module shown in  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4A  is a top view of the module of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 4B  is a side cross-sectional view of the module of  FIG. 4A  taken along line  4 B- 4 B in  FIG. 4A . 
         FIG. 5  is an end view of the module of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 6  is an opposite end view than  FIG. 5  of the module of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of the module of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 8  is an opposite side view than  FIG. 7  of the module of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 9  is a partial exploded view of the module of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a connector of the module of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded perspective view of the connector of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a male connector of the module of  FIG. 3  and a female connector of a different module, shown in an uncoupled configuration. 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the male connector of the module of  FIG. 3  and a female connector of a different module, shown in a coupled configuration. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the module of  FIG. 3  shown coupled to another module of the electronic building system. 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a module of an electronic building system, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG. 16  is a bottom perspective view of the module of  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of the module of  FIG. 15  shown coupled to another module of the electronic building system, and each module coupled to a component of a different building block system. 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of two modules of an electronic building system, according to another embodiment, shown coupled together and having color-coded connectors. 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of two modules of an electronic building system, according to another embodiment, shown coupled together and each having an indicator strip disposed on the circuit board of the modules. 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of two modules of an electronic building system, according to another embodiment, shown coupled together and having color-coded fasteners. 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of a male connector of a first module of an electronic building system, according to another embodiment, and a female connector of the electronic building system, shown uncoupled. 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of the male connector and the female connector of  FIG. 21 , shown uncoupled 
         FIG. 23A-23C  are each a schematic illustration of a side view of a different embodiment of a module. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In some embodiments, an electronic educational toy or a modular electronic building block system is provided that can teach the logic of programming and circuit building without requiring expertise in either. In some embodiments, the modular electronic building block system (also referred to herein as “system” or “block system” or “electronic building system”) includes modules that include pre-assembled printed circuit boards (PCB) and connectors coupled to the PCB. The connectors can be interconnected using, at least in part, small magnets. Each module (also referred to as a “block”) can perform one or more discrete functions (e.g., an LED, a pushbutton, a light sensor with a threshold, etc.), and the modules can be combined to produce larger circuits. Some modules can respond to external events such as mechanical forces, touch, proximity, radio frequency signals, environmental conditions, etc. Some blocks can have pre-engineered functionalities and some blocks simply pass current like wire blocks. Yet other blocks can provide current, such as, for example, a power module. 
     In some embodiments, the modules described herein may be divided into categories corresponding to their function. Examples of categories can include, but are not limited to: power modules, input modules, output modules, wire modules, etc. Power modules, for example, can take current from a battery, an AC adapter (e.g., wall wart), or other power source, and convert it into current, feeding the other components of the system. In any working configuration of modules, there may be at least one power module. Input modules can include, but are not limited to: buttons, switches, sensors, etc. Output modules can include, but are not limited to: LEDs, displays, sound modules, motors, etc. In some embodiments, wire modules may not perform a particular function, but act as wire extensions, configuration changers, and in some cases logic and state modules. 
     In some embodiments, the general electrical operation of the system can include modules that can include a standard interface and communicate automatically when connected. In some embodiments, each module can include three or more electrical lines and such lines are interconnected between and throughout all modules. For example, the electrical lines can each be coupled to one or more conductors of a module. These lines can include, for example, data, power, signal and ground. In some embodiments, a module(s) can have at least three conductors, and includes three electrical lines including a power line, a signal line and a ground line. In some embodiments, power and signal lines of the power modules are at 5 Volts, the system is relatively low power, and the power and ground lines are shared among all the modules. In other exemplary embodiments, the power may be something other than 5 Volts such as, for example, 3V, 9V, 12V, 15V, alternating current (AC), etc. In some embodiments, a power line of a first module of a module system can provide power at a different voltage than a power line of another module of the module system. Input modules can take the incoming signal, and manipulate it according to the module&#39;s function, and output the modified signal. In the case of a pressure sensor connected to a power module, for example, the sensor module takes 5 Volts into the signal line, and outputs a voltage between 0 and 5 Volts depending on the amount of pressure applied to the sensor. Output modules respond to the signal line by representing the voltage in light, sound, display, movement or other forms. In some embodiments, the pressure sensor scales the input signal in proportion to the pressure at the sensor, and passes that scaled signal to the output. Output modules transform or transduce incoming signal information into perceivable actions, such as light, sound, motion, or other perceivable actions. 
     All modules are pre-assembled, pre-engineered, and contain the logic and circuitry used to make the module readily usable. For example, an LED module can contain a resistor corresponding to its current rating, an Operation Amplifier (OpAmp) as a buffer from the remainder of the circuit, or any other appropriate electronic circuitry. In another example, a coin cell battery module can incorporate a discharge protection circuit. In some exemplary embodiments, the system does not require any hardware or software platform. In other exemplary embodiments, the system may include a hardware and/or software platform. In some embodiments, the modules can be programmed. In some embodiments, the modules do not need to be programmed and do not require a central circuit controlling them. In such embodiments, the system can be standalone and does not need a computer or hub. In some embodiments, however, the system may be connected to a device such as a computer, hub, memory storage, or personal electronic mobile device, such as, for example, a cellular phone, smart phone, etc., to access or produce additional functionality or to retrieve information or power from the device. 
     In some embodiments, an electronic building system as described herein can include logic and state modules that can be used for programming. Such modules can enable a user to program certain behaviors of his/her designed system without needing to learn a programming language, to write code on a computer, or to program a microcontroller circuit. For example, programming can be done through using logic modules to produce decision trees. In some embodiments, microcontroller programming can be done on the system. Also, a module can include feature controls, such as, for example, switches, knobs and buttons that enable selection of modes of behavior. Some modules can allow for the selection of a mode or adjustment of their behavior. For instance, a proximity sensor module can contain a mode switch and a potentiometer. Through the manipulation of the embedded potentiometer, the threshold level can be set, determining the input signal level beyond which the module should output a high. Also, by, for example, flipping a switch, the module can go from normally-high to normally-low, in essence inverting its response to the desired threshold. In some embodiments, this functionality can be implemented in software as well. 
     In some embodiments, a system as described herein can provide and include multiple electrical modules selectively couplable together to transmit electrical current from one electrical module to another electrical module, each module having at least one functionality associated therewith and including a connector adapted to couple to a connector of another electrical module. When the modules are coupled together (e.g., via the connectors), a functionality of at least one of the electrical modules can be dependent upon at least another one of the electrical modules. 
     In some embodiments, a system can include one or more modules that can communicate with one another via a wireless communication protocol (e.g., Bluetooth radios). In other words, one or more modules can communicate with each other without being mechanically coupled together. 
     In some embodiments, a system as described herein can include at least four different categories of modules: power; input; output; and wire; although more types of modules are possible. Power modules provide electricity to the system. Input modules can interpret data or their surroundings and provide that input to the system. Output modules can make visual, physical, or audible changes to their surroundings based on input(s) to the system. Thus, the output modules can produce perceivable sensory or physical events. Wire modules can route power and/or communication between the modules in the system. Wire modules can also modify the electrical signals. Said another way, input modules can transduce real-world perceivable actions into signal information in the system. Output modules can transduce system signal information into real-world perceivable actions, such as light, sound, motion, or other perceivable actions. Wire modules can perform transformations or manipulations upon system signals that do not directly result in perceivable actions or events. 
     Many different types of modules are possible in each category, including but not limited to the following: (i) power modules, including, for example, wall power modules, battery power modules, solar power modules, discharge protection circuits; (ii) input modules: pulse modules, pressure sensor modules, proximity modules, input recording modules, potentiometer modules, button modules, temperature modules, accelerometer modules, memory modules, timer modules; (iii) output modules, including, for example, motion modules, motor modules, vibration motor modules, fan modules, RGB LED modules, LED modules, bar graph modules, speaker modules, display modules such as, organic light emitting diodes (OLED) modules, or liquid crystal display (LCD) modules, and electroluminescent wire modules; and (iv) wire modules, including, for example, wire modules of various lengths, extender modules, splitter modules, programmable microcontroller unit (MCU) modules, and interface modules. Any known type of circuit or electronic component or combination of components may be used to create a module and thus form a portion of a system built using such components. 
     In some embodiments, when a first power module is connected to a second module, the power signal from the power module is transferred from the power module to the second module. Accordingly, the second module is powered by the first module. If, for example, a button module, sensor module, or other type of module is placed somewhere between the first power module and a second module, the signal or current may be affected by the action of the button module or the sensor module. For example, the signal or current may not pass (or, alternatively, may continuously pass) from the first module (power module) to the second module unless the button on the button module is depressed or the sensor on the sensor module is activated. Similarly, if a sensor module is only partially activated, then only partial current is transferred from the first module (power module) to the second module. 
     The modules described herein may be provided as individual modules or provided as part of a set or kit. A kit can include, for example, standard module components as well as specialized components such as sensor sets, mechanical sets, biological sets, sound sets, etc. 
     According to some embodiments, a kit that can include at least a portion of a building block system having multiple modules as well other supporting components, such as, for example, accessory components to allow a user to build a particular electronic device, such as, for example, a lamp, a toy vehicle, a light switch dimmer, etc. In some embodiments a kit may include one or more different category of modules (power, input, output, and/or wire), one or more different types of each category of modules, a container in which to store the modules, a mounting board or substrate upon which to place or couple modules, learning materials, accessories, instructions, or a variety of other components. For example, a kit may include multiple modules that may be connected in an almost unlimited number of combinations to perform numerous different input and output functions. In other exemplary embodiments, the kit may also include a limited number of modules that are intended to be assembled in a limited number of combinations, including a single combination, to perform a limited number of functions. For example, for a kit intended to be used to build a particular functional system, the kit can include as many as tens or hundreds or more modules, or it can include just two modules (a power module and an output module). In some embodiments, a kit may include modules and components intended to augment an existing module library or existing kit, in which case it may include just one type of module, such as, for example, a kit of only wire modules or only output modules. A kit may also be directed to a certain age group, with a kit for an elementary level including fewer and/or less complicated modules than a kit designed for a high school level, for example. In some embodiments, a kit may include instructions, videos, or other means, which inform the user as to one or more possible combinations of the modules. For example, the instructions may instruct the user how to assemble the modules into a battery-powered motion sensor that emits an audible alarm upon detection of movement. 
     In some embodiments, a system can be adapted to give access to sophisticated devices through, for example, analog or other interfaces. Example complex devices may include, but are not limited to, LCD displays, OLED screens, timers, accelerometers, logic gates, and many more. In some embodiments, this may be accomplished by pre-engineering one or more modules and providing “entry points” into the devices. The entry points can be, for example, knobs or switches that allow the user to adjust the intensity or frequency of pulsing, change modes of operation, set thresholds, make decisions, or remember a configuration, among many other operations. These may be considered “entry points” because they are based on similar devices that people know how to use from their everyday lives. The example modular systems described herein may take lessons and iconography from consumer electronics (such as, for example, blenders, DVD players, alarm clocks, game consoles) and apply them to these semi-raw electronic modules. 
     An example entry point module may include an OLED screen module, which includes an SD card slot in which users can insert an SD card preloaded with images and video. Images and videos may also be provided by a connected edge-router module and sent to another module via a digital communication protocol. The OLED screen module may also include a microcontroller on-board, which is pre-programmed with firmware to access and display the images. Also integrated in the OLED screen module may be a toggle switch and a knob, where the toggle switch selects between fixed images/video or looping and the knob adjusts the looping speed. In the above example, even though the circuit board and firmware itself may be complex, the end result will be an easy-to-use OLED screen module with appropriate iconography that may be accessible to children and novice users alike. The exemplary system may allow for and include the pre-engineering and design of numerous other complex modules similar to the OLED screen example. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a first connector that includes a housing having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface. The housing defines a receptacle between the top surface and the bottom surface of the housing. The receptacle has a first end open at the top surface and a second end opposite the first end that is closed. A magnet is disposed within the receptacle. A circuit board having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface is permanently coupled to the first connector such that a bottom surface of the circuit board contacts the top surface of the housing of the first connector and the circuit board covers the first end of the receptacle preventing the magnet from being removed from the receptacle. The first connector is configured to be removably coupled to a second connector such that a front surface of the housing of the first connector engages a front surface of a housing of the second connector and the magnet disposed within the receptacle of the housing of the first connector magnetically couples to a magnet of the second connector. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a first connector including a housing having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a contact assembly coupled to the first connector. A first circuit board having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface, is coupled to the first connector such that the bottom surface of the first circuit board contacts the top surface of the housing of the first connector and at least a portion of the contact assembly is disposed between the bottom surface of the first circuit board and a portion of the housing of the first connector. The first connector can be removably coupled to a second connector such that a front surface of the housing of the first connector engages a front surface of a housing of the second connector and at least a portion of the contact assembly is received within an interior region defined between the housing of the second connector and a second circuit board coupled to the housing of the second connector, and at least one contact of the contact assembly electrically and directly engages at least one contact of the second circuit board. 
     In some embodiments, an apparatus includes a first connector including a first housing having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface and a contact assembly permanently coupled to the first housing of the first connector. A first circuit board having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface is permanently coupled to the first connector such that at least a portion of the bottom surface of the first circuit board contacts at least a portion of the top surface of the first housing of the first connector and at least a portion of the contact assembly is disposed between the bottom surface of the first circuit board and at least a portion of the first housing. The apparatus further includes a second connector that includes a second housing having a top surface and a bottom surface opposite the top surface of the second housing. The first circuit board is permanently coupled to the second housing of the second connector such that an interior region is defined between a portion of the bottom surface of the first circuit board and a portion of the second housing of the second connector. The contact assembly of the first connector configured to be received within an interior region defined between a third connector and a second circuit board coupled to the third connector. The interior region defined between the second housing of the second connector and the second circuit board can receive a portion of a contact assembly coupled to a fourth connector and to a third circuit board coupled to the fourth connector. 
     Referring now to the figures,  FIG. 1A  is a schematic illustration of a modular electronic building block system, according to an embodiment,  FIGS. 1B-1D  each illustrate an example of a different module  120 , and  FIG. 1E  illustrates the modules of  FIGS. 1B-1D  coupled together. The modular electronic building block system  100  (also referred to herein as “system”, “block system” or “electronic building block system” or “electronic building system”) can include one or more electronic modules  120  (also referred to herein as “modules,” “blocks,” or “electronic blocks”) that can each be removably coupled to at least one other module  120 .  FIG. 1A  illustrates two modules  120 . Each module  120  can include a printed circuit board  122  (also referred to as “PCB” or “circuit board”) coupled to two or more connectors, such as connectors  124  and  126 , shown in  FIG. 1A . The circuit board  122  can include various associated electronic or electrical components to perform various desired functions. The circuit board  122  can also include at least two interfaces (e.g., an input interface and an output interface). In some embodiments, the circuit board  122  can include, for example, two input interfaces and two output interfaces. Although the circuit board  122  is shown having a particular length and width, it should be understood that the circuit board  122  can have different lengths and widths than the example embodiments shown and described. It should also be understood that although the circuit board  122  is shown as being rectangular, the circuit board  122  can alternatively be a variety of different shapes, e.g., square, triangular, etc. 
     The connectors  124  and  126  can each include a housing  128  that can be fixedly or permanently coupled to the circuit board  122  with, for example, a mechanical fastener (e.g., bolt, screw, rivet, etc.). In other embodiments, the connectors can be coupled to the circuit board with a friction fit, and in yet other embodiments, the connectors can be coupled to the circuit board with a spring-loaded mechanism. As shown in the schematic illustrations of  FIGS. 1B-1D , the circuit board  122  is coupled to the connectors  124  and  126  such that a bottom surface of the circuit board contacts a top surface of the connectors  124  and  126 . Thus, the circuit board  122  is disposed over the connectors  124  and  126 . In some embodiments, when the circuit board  122  is coupled to the connectors  124 ,  126 , a front surface of the circuit board  122  is aligned or substantially aligned with a front surface of the connectors  124 ,  126 , and/or a side surface of the circuit board  122  is aligned or substantially aligned with a side surface of the connectors  124 ,  126 . 
     The housing  128  can be the same or substantially the same form factor for both connectors  124  and  126  as described in more detail below. In other words, the connector  124  and the connector  126  each include the same or common housing  128 . In alternative embodiments, the connectors  124  and  126  can each include a different housing  128 . The housing  128  can be, for example, formed with an appropriate plastic material and be injection molded. The housing  128  can be a single injection molded component or can include multiple components coupled together (e.g., with ultrasonic welding, friction fit, or with fasteners). The housing  128  can define one or more receptacles (not shown in  FIG. 1A ) that can receive therein a magnet that can be used to removably couple a connector (e.g.,  124 ) of one module  120  to a connector (e.g.,  126 ) of another module  120  as described in more detail below. The receptacles can have an open end at a top surface portion of the housing  128  and a closed bottom end. Thus, when a magnet is disposed within the receptacle, the magnet can rest on a bottom surface at the closed end of the receptacle. 
     The magnets on one connector (e.g.,  124 ) of a module  120  can have the north face of the magnet(s) facing out and the other connector (e.g.,  126 ) of the module  120  can have the south face of the magnet(s) facing out. The south facing side of the connector of one module  120  can only be coupled to the north facing side of a connector on another module  120 . This ensures proper connection and appropriate polarity for the electronic circuit/PCB of the modules. The repelling polarities inhibit the magnets from one connector (e.g.,  124 ,  126 ) connecting to another connector (e.g.,  124 ,  126 ) in an inappropriate manner to facilitate the electrical connection of the modules  120  in the correct manner. For example, a connector with a magnet with the north face of the magnet facing outward cannot be coupled to another connector with a magnet with the north face of the magnet facing outward. 
     In some embodiments, the connectors (e.g.,  124 ,  126 ) of a module  120  can also include an interlocking coupling mechanism (not shown in  FIGS. 1A-1E ) that includes a protrusion and a recess defined by the housing  128  that can interlock, mate or complimentarily fit with a recess and protrusion, respectively, of another connector of another module  120 . The interlocking of the protrusions and recesses can inhibit the modules  120  from sliding laterally or side-to-side with respect to each other when removably coupled together. Thus, a connector of one module can be coupled to a connector of another module with the magnets and/or the interlocking coupling mechanism. When a first module  120  is removably coupled to a second module  120  via the magnets of the connectors  124 ,  126 , a front surface of the connector of the first module  120  contacts a front surface of the connector of the second module. In some embodiments, when a first module  120  is removably coupled to a second module  120  via the magnets of the connectors  124 ,  126 , a side surface of the connector of the first module  120  can be aligned with a side surface of the connector of the second module  120 . 
     The modules  120  further include a contact assembly (not shown in  FIGS. 1A-1E ) that can be coupled to the connector  124  and to the circuit board  122 . The contact assembly can include a base with multiple electrical contacts or conductors coupled to the base. For example, in some embodiments, the contact assembly can have from 2-15 contacts, or any suitable number of contacts. The electrical contacts or conductors can be, for example, spring probes or small metal plate. In some embodiments, the electrical contacts can be coupled to the base with soldering; in other embodiments, the electrical contacts can be coupled to the base without soldering, with for example, mechanical couplings or by engagement of the contacts with the base. Further, in some embodiments, the contact assembly is permanently or fixedly connected to the connector  124  and to the circuit board  122  without the use of a solder connection between contacts of the contact assembly and the circuit board or housing  128  of the connector  124 . For example, the contact assembly is sandwiched between the housing  128  of connector  124  and the circuit board  122  when the circuit board  122  is coupled to the housing  128  with mechanical fasteners. In some embodiments, the circuit board  122  is permanently coupled to the housing  128  of the connector  124  such that the contact assembly is maintained permanently or fixedly coupled to the connector  124  with a pressure fit. When the module  120  is assembled, with the circuit board  122  coupled to the connectors  124 ,  126  and the contact assembly permanently or fixedly coupled between the circuit board  122  and the connector  124 , a portion of the contact assembly extends outwardly from a front surface of the connector  124  and a front surface of the circuit board  122 . The portion extending outwardly can be received within a mating opening of another connector  126  as described in more detail below. 
     The connector  126  of the module  120  does not include a contact assembly permanently or fixedly connected thereto. Thus, a given module can have a connector  124  with a contact assembly permanently or fixedly coupled thereto and a connector  126  without a contact assembly permanently or fixedly coupled thereto. For the connector  126 , when the circuit board  122  is coupled to the connector  126 , a front opening and interior region is defined between the circuit board  122  and the connector  126  when viewed from a front end of the module. When a first module  120  is removably coupled to a second module  120  by coupling a connector  124  of the first module to a connector  126  of the second module  120 , the portion of the contact assembly extending outwardly from the front surface of the connector  124  can be received in a lateral direction within the interior region defined between the housing  128  of the connector  126  and the circuit board  122  of the second module, and the contacts of the contact assembly of the first module  120  engage the circuit board  122  of the second module. 
     The magnets of a connector  124 ,  126  act as magnetically polarizing and mechanically connecting elements, whereas the contact assembly carries an electronic signal from one circuit board  122  to the next circuit board  122  through the mating of the connectors (e.g.,  124 ,  126 ). In some embodiments, a connector  124  with a contact assembly coupled thereto can be referred to as a male connector, and the corresponding connector  126  that defines an opening to receive a portion of the contact assembly of the male connector can be referred to as a female connector. As described above, the circuit board  122  can include an input interface and an output interface, and the circuit board  122  can be coupled to the connectors  124  and  126  such that one of the connectors  124 ,  126  is near the input interface of the circuit board  122 , and the other connector  124 ,  126  is near the output interface. Thus, for example, when a first module  120  is coupled to a second module  120 , the connector near the output interface of the first module  120  can be coupled to a connector near the input interface of the second module  120  such that electrical current can be carried or transferred from the first module  120  to the second module  120  via the contact assembly, and transferred to a third module  120  coupled to the second module  120  via the input interface of the second module to the output interface of the second module  120  and then to the input interface of the third module  120 . In some embodiments, multiple magnets having alternating or identical polarities can also be used in the manner described above. 
     The modules  120  can also be used or interconnected with components or blocks B of different interlocking building block systems. For example, each module  120  can be coupled to a component or block B of a LEGO® block system. More specifically, each connector  124 ,  126  can include one or more mounting portion  130  (e.g., see  FIGS. 1B-1D ) that can matingly couple to such a component B of a different building block system. As shown in  FIGS. 1B-1E , the mounting portions  130  extend from a bottom portion of the connectors  124 ,  126  such that the module  120  can be removably coupled to a top portion of a component B. Further details of such mounting portions  130  are described below with reference to specific embodiments. 
     Each module  120  can also include one or more electrical or electronic components  135  that can perform a particular function. Example electrical components  135  can include, power components (e.g., various type of batteries, power adapters), sensors (e.g., pressure, temperature), switches, push buttons, knobs, potentiometers, mode switches, tactile switch, timers, speakers, and other audio related components, visual components such as light components (e.g., light emitting diodes (LEDs)), recorders, motors, fans, thermometers, etc. In some embodiments, a module  120  can include, for example, a processor, micro-processor, controller, micro-controller, firmware, or a display such as a digital display. The various electrical or electronic components can be coupled (e.g., soldered) to the circuit board  122  of a module  120 . Electrical power can be provided to the electrical components  135  via a power module (described below) and via the contact assemblies and circuit boards  122  of the modules  120  as described above. 
     As described above, various categories and types of modules  120  can also be referred to by the particular functionality the module provides. For example, a power module, a light module, a sensor module, a switch module, etc. As described above, in some embodiments, a system  100  can include at least four different categories of modules: power; input; output; and wire; although more types of modules are possible. Power modules provide electricity to the system. Input modules can interpret data or their surroundings and provide that input to the system. Output modules can make visual, physical, or audible changes to their surroundings based on signals present in the system. Wire modules can route or modify power, signals and/or communications between the modules in the system, and/or interface with other systems, such as, e.g., the MIDI protocol, a digital display, dot matrix display or video display. 
     In one example, a power module  120  provides power components and can take current from a battery, an AC adapter (e.g., wall wart), or AC to DC converter, or other power source, and convert it into current, feeding the other components of the system (e.g., other electrical components of the modules coupled to the power module). Thus, in any working configuration of modules (e.g., multiple modules removably coupled together to create a desired functionality), there is typically at least one power module to supply power to the desired system. In some embodiments, some or all of the modules can include a power source. An example power module  120  is shown in the schematic illustration of  FIG. 1B  and can include, a power adapter  127  with a cord  123  that can be releasably coupled to a power source PS (shown in  FIG. 1A ). In other embodiments, a power module can include a battery block that can receive one or more batteries, a coin battery, a rechargeable battery (e.g., Lithium-Ion (L-Ion) battery or Lithium Polymer (LiPo) battery), or other type of power source within the power module itself. 
       FIG. 1C  illustrates another example module. A tactile switch module  120  can include a push button  129  (or other type of switch) that can be coupled (e.g., soldered) onto the circuit board  122  as shown in  FIG. 1C . As described above, the circuit board  122  can have an input interface and an output interface. The tactile switch module can have, for example, a connector  126  near the input interface and a connector  124  near the output interface. The connector  126  of the tactile switch module  120  can be designed to couple with a connector near an output interface of another module  120 , and the connector  124  of the tactile switch module  120  can be designed to couple to a connector near the input interface of a different module. The tactile switch module  120  can include electrical conductors designed to complete connections between two engaging interfaces for a power line and a ground line. A signal line can go through the push button  129 , which makes or breaks the circuit, and thus transfers a modified signal line to the output interface corresponding to the module function. 
     In another example, a light emitting diode (LED) module  120  is shown in the schematic illustration of  FIG. 1D . The LED module can include, for example, a LED component  131  (e.g., a dip package LED component) coupled (e.g., soldered) to the circuit board  122 . In yet another example, a sound generator module (not shown) can include a speaker, alarm, buzzer, or other sound emitting component. When, for example, the power module of  FIG. 1B  is coupled to the tactile switch module of  FIG. 1C  and the tactile switch module is coupled to the LED module as shown in  FIG. 1E , and the power module is connected to a power source, when a user pushes the push button of the switch module, a circuit is completed and the LED illuminates. The power module adapter  127  delivers power to the power module and the pre-integrated circuitry in the power module then converts the voltage to a desired voltage such as, for example, 5 Volts in the present example. If the tactile switch module is removed from between the two other modules, the LED module can be coupled directly to the power module and constant power will be delivered to the LED module and the LED will remain illuminated until the power is terminated. In the above-described example, there is one power module, one input module (the tactile switch module) and one output module (the LED module). It should be understood that this is merely one example of the various types of modules that can be coupled together to achieve a particular functionality. In other examples, the LED module could be replaced with an audio module (e.g., a buzzer module) so that when the push button of the tactile switch module is pressed, the audio module makes an audible sound (a buzzer). Many other combinations and sub-combinations are possible with different modules having different functionality all forming different circuits, with immediate response of the elements, and without any need for programming, soldering or circuit assembly. 
     In some embodiments, input (e.g., user input) need not be limited to just a mechanical input device (e.g., a mechanical switch) but also can be digital input. For example, in some embodiments, a module can have a wireless receiver, and in such an embodiment, a user can use a processor with a wireless transmitter to send a wireless signal to make an input. 
     In another example module (not shown), a power module can include a battery component, such as, for example, a coin cell battery block. The coin battery can deliver a little over 3 Volts stepped up to 5 Volts by the electronic circuit of the module. The circuit can also include a discharge protection circuit, which demonstrates an example of how the electronic building system can be designed to make the system easier to use and safe for users. The circuit may also include an embedded switch that enables a user to turn on or off the battery component so as not to waste battery power. Connected to the battery module can be a pressure sensor module, which can read the amount of pressure applied to a pressure sensor component and output voltage in the range of, for example, 0 to 5 Volts depending on the amount of pressure applied. As more pressure is applied to the pressure sensor component, higher voltage transmits to the next modules. In this example, the next modules can be, for example, a vibrating motor module and an LED module, which respectively vibrate more and illuminate brighter as the applied pressure increases. It should be understood that the above example of 0-5 Volts is merely an example, and that other voltage ranges can be used to accomplish the electronic functions described. 
     In some embodiments, each module  120  can include control and protection circuitry to facilitate safe and easy operation of the module  120 . In some embodiments, each module  120  can include an operational amplifier component or other electronic circuits used in a buffer configuration to reduce the amount of overall current consumption on the overall system of coupled modules  120 . This assists with facilitating the cascading of multiple modules  120  without significant loss of power, as well as scaling the system as may be desired. In other exemplary embodiments, the system  100  may include a booster module in the overall system of coupled modules to boost the current and/or power traveling through the power lines and ensure proper functioning of all the modules  120  in the system  100 . 
     In another example, a user can program behavior of a circuit by manipulating physical elements. In an example embodiment, a power module can include a 9 Volt battery, which module can be coupled to a temperature sensor module that includes a threshold component, and the temperature sensor module can be coupled to an audio module. In this example, the temperature sensor module may be more advanced than a traditional sensor module and can include a temperature sensor and a potentiometer that may be adjusted to set a temperature threshold. If the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is above the set temperature threshold, the temperature sensor module outputs a high reading. This is an example of integrating logic with a simpler analog module to enable complex circuit configurations. An output of a high reading from the temperature sensor module will cause the audio module to activate and a speaker on the audio module to play a pre-recorded message associated with a high reading. For example, this exemplary circuit could be used by a person wishing to have an alarm to turn on the air conditioning. When the temperature exceeds a pre-set threshold temperature, the audio module could play back a message “time to turn on the AC!” Also, the audio module may instead be replaced with, for example, a fan module, which may activate a fan upon receiving a high temperature reading signal from the temperature sensor module. 
     In some embodiments, the temperature sensor module may incorporate a mode switch that can change the behavior of the module from ‘normally-low’ to ‘normally-high’. In contrast to the above described configuration (which was normally-low), a ‘normally-high’ setting would cause the temperature module to output a high reading except when the temperature exceeds the threshold. This means the audio module would be playing recurrently until the room gets warmer, at which point the audio module will cease to output audio. These controls, in addition to pre-programmed modules, logic modules and state modules, can allow the system to enable complex prototypes and circuits with no programming or electronics knowledge. 
     Each module  120  of a system  100  may also be uniquely configured to provide a quick visual indication to a user of each module&#39;s function. The modules  120  may be uniquely configured in any manner and have any characteristic to identify the functionality of the modules. Additionally, any portion of the module  120  may be uniquely configured and have any characteristic to represent the unique configuration feature. For example, the modules may have a characteristic that uniquely identifies the modules by color-coding, patterning, or may include unique structuring such as shapes, housings, interconnection or couplings, etc. In one example, the connectors of a module can be color-coded as the manner of uniquely configuring modules to provide visual indicators as to the function of the modules. It should be understood, however, that color-coding the connectors of a module  120  is not intended to be limiting and the modules  120  may be uniquely configured in any manner. Color-coding of the modules can provide a user with a quick visual confirmation of the type of module, the functionality of the module, as well as allowing the user to learn which color combinations are possible. The functionality of the modules identified by the unique configurations and characteristics may be any type or level of functionality. For example, the unique configurations may indicate that the modules are input modules, power modules, wire modules, output modules, etc. In other examples, the unique configurations of the modules may be more specific such as, for example, an LED module, a  9 -volt battery module, a cell battery module, a potentiometer module, a switch module, a pressure sensor module, a pulse module, a button module, a vibration motor module, a wire module, etc. 
       FIGS. 2-14  illustrate components of another embodiment of a modular electronic building system. A modular electronic building block system  200  (also referred to herein as “system”, “block system” or “electronic building block system” or “electronic building system”) can include one or more electronic modules  220  (also referred to herein as “modules,” “blocks,” or “electronic blocks”) that can each be removably coupled to at least one other module  220  (see  FIG. 14  illustrating two modules  220  coupled together). 
     A single module  220  is described with respect to  FIGS. 2-13 , but it should be understood that other modules of the system  200  can have the same or similar components and be coupled to another module in the same manner as described for module  220 . Further, although not shown in  FIGS. 2-14 , the modules  220  of the system  200  can each include one or more electrical components (e.g., electrical components  135 ) as described above for system  100  that can each provide a module  220  with a particular functionality, and include various categories and types of modules as described above. For example, the system  200  can include a power module  220  and when the power module  220  is removably coupled to another module  220  having an electrical component, the power module  220  can provide power to that other module  220  (and its electrical component). The electrical component(s) can be, for example, coupled to the circuit board  222  (e.g., to a top surface  241  of the circuit board  222 ). 
     The module  220  includes a printed circuit board  222  (also referred to as “PCB” or “circuit board”) coupled to a first connector  224  and a second connector  226 . The circuit board  222  can include various associated electronic or electrical components to perform various desired functions, and include an input interface and an output interface. The circuit board  222  can also have various lengths and widths than those shown with respect to  FIGS. 2-14 . 
     The connectors  224  and  226  each include a common housing  228  (i.e., same shape and size) that can be fixedly or permanently coupled to the circuit board  222  with, for example, a mechanical fastener (e.g., bolt, screw, rivet, etc.) (not shown). For example, the circuit board  222  includes or defines openings  236  and the connectors  224  and  226  can each define corresponding openings  257  (see e.g.,  FIGS. 9-13 ) that can receive a fastener (not shown) therethrough to secure the circuit board  222  to the connectors  224  and  226 . The circuit board  222  also defines openings  238  that can receive a locating pin  252  of the connectors  224  and  226  (see e.g.,  FIGS. 9-13 ). The locating pins  252  can help position the circuit board  222  during assembly. 
     As described above for the previous embodiment, the circuit board  222  is coupled to the connectors  224  and  226  such that a bottom surface  243  of the circuit board  222  contacts a top surface  255  of the housing  228  of the connectors  224  and  226 . When coupled to the circuit board  222 , the connectors  224  and  226  are disposed below or beneath the circuit board  222 . In addition, a side surface  239  of the circuit board  222  is aligned or substantially aligned with a side surface  233  of the connectors  224  and  226 , and a front or end surface  245  of the circuit board  222  is aligned or substantially aligned with a front surface  237  of the connectors  224  and  226 . As described herein, reference to the side surface  233  of the connectors  224  and  226  also refers to a side surface  233  of the common housings  228  of the connectors  224  and  226 , and the front surface  233  of the connectors  224  and  226  also refers to a front surface  233  of the common housings  228  of the connectors  224  and  226 . 
     The common housing  228  defines two receptacles  256  ( FIGS. 9-13 ) that can each receive therein a magnet  250  ( FIGS. 10-13 , magnets  250  are not shown in  FIG. 9 ). The receptacles  256  can have an open end at the top surface  255  of the housing  228  and a closed bottom end. Thus, when a magnet  250  is disposed within a receptacle  256 , the magnet  250  can rest on a bottom surface at the closed end of the receptacle  256 . The magnets  250  can be used to removably couple each of the connectors  224  and  226  to a connector of a different module  220  of the system  200 . For example, with the magnets  250  disposed within the receptacles  256 , a magnetic force can be applied/transferred through the front surface  237  of the housing  228  of the connectors  224  and  226 . Thus, the connectors  224  and  226  can each be removably coupled to another connector of another module  220  through magnetic force when the front surface  237  of the connectors  224  and  226  engages/contacts a front surface  237  of another connector (similarly constructed with magnets  250  disposed within receptacles  256 ). In other words, the connectors  224  and  226  will be magnetically coupled to the other connectors via magnetic force of the magnets  250 . 
     As described above, the magnets  250  of one connector (e.g.,  224 ) of the module  220  can have the north face of the magnet(s) facing out and the other connector (e.g.,  226 ) of the module  220  can have the south face of the magnet(s) facing out. The repelling polarities inhibit the magnets  250  from one connector (e.g.,  224 ,  226 ) connecting to another connector (e.g.,  224 ,  226 ) in an inappropriate manner to facilitate connecting of the modules in the correct manner. For example, a connector with a magnet  250  with the north face of the magnet facing outward cannot be coupled to another connector with a magnet  250  with the north face of the magnet facing outward. 
     The connectors  224  and  226  of the module  220  also include an interlocking coupling mechanism that includes a protrusion  232  and a recess  234  defined by the housing  228  that can interlock, mate or complimentarily fit with a recess  234  and protrusion  232 , respectively, of another connector of another module  220 . The interlocking of the protrusions  232  and recesses  234  can inhibit two modules  220  from sliding laterally or side-to-side with respect to each other when removably coupled together. In this embodiment, the protrusion  232  is spaced laterally apart from the recess  234  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 2, 3, 5, 6, 9 and 12 . 
     The connectors  224 ,  226  of the module  220  can each be coupled to a different connector of another module  220  with the magnets  250 , and the interlocking coupling mechanism (e.g., protrusion  232  and recess  234 ) can further help maintain the connectors of the different modules coupled together. When the module  220  is removably coupled to another module  220  via the magnets  250  of the connectors  224  or  226 , a front surface  237  of the connector  224 ,  226  of the module  220  contacts a front surface of the connector of the other module  220 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 14 , the module  220  is coupled to a module  220 ′ such that the front surface of the connector  224  contacts a front surface (not shown in  FIG. 14 ) of the connector  226 ′ of the module  220 ′. Further, when the module  220  is removably coupled to another module  220  via the magnets  250  of the connectors  224  or  226 , a side surface  233  of the connector  224  or  226  of the module  220  is aligned or substantially aligned with a side surface of the connector of the other module  220 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 14 , the module  220  is removably coupled to the module  220 ′ and the side surface  233  of connector  224  is aligned with the side surface  233 ′ of the connector  226 ′. 
     The module  220  further includes a contact assembly  240  that is coupled to the connector  224  and to the circuit board  222 . The contact assembly  240  includes a base  244  and multiple electrical contacts or conductors  246  coupled to the base  244  as best shown in  FIGS. 9-11 . The contacts  246  can be, for example, spring probes or small metal plates. In this embodiment, there are  13  contacts  246 , but it should be understood that a different number of contacts  246  can be used. The contact assembly  240  also includes a mounting block  248  extending from a bottom surface of the base  244  as shown in  FIG. 11 . The contact assembly  240  is sandwiched between the housing  228  of connector  224  and the circuit board  222  when the circuit board  222  is coupled to the housing  228  with mechanical fasteners. More specifically, the contact assembly  240  is positioned within a top open region  251  ( FIG. 11 ) of the housing  228 , and the mounting block  248  is inserted into an opening  253  defined by the housing  228 . The magnets  250  are inserted into the receptacles  256 , and the circuit board  222  is permanently coupled to the housing  228  of the connector  224  (via fasteners within openings  236  and  257 ) such that the contact assembly  240  is maintained permanently coupled to the connector  224  with a pressure fit. The magnets  250  are also maintained within the receptacles  256  with the circuit board  222  coupled to the connectors  224 ,  226 . Thus, the contact assembly  240  and the magnets  250  are permanently coupled to the connector  224  and to the circuit board  222  without the use of a solder connection between contacts  246  of the contact assembly  240  and the circuit board or housing  228 . As shown, for example, in  FIGS. 2-4B, 7 and 8 , when the module  220  is assembled with the circuit board  222  coupled to the connectors  224  and  226 , a portion of the contact assembly  240  extends outwardly from the front surface  237  of the housing  228  of connector  224 . 
     The connector  226  of the module  220  does not include a contact assembly permanently or fixedly coupled thereto. Thus, for a given module  220 , the module  220  will have a connector  224  that has a contact assembly  240  fixedly or permanently coupled thereto and a connector  226  that does not have a contact assembly  240  fixedly or permanently coupled thereto. For the connector  226 , the circuit board  222  is coupled to the housing  228  of the connector  226  in the same manner as the circuit board  222  is coupled to the housing  228  of connector  224 . Without a contact assembly, a front opening  242  in communication with the interior region  251  is defined between the circuit board  222  and the housing  228  of connector  226 , as shown, for example, in  FIG. 6 . The opening  242  and interior region  251  can receive a portion of a contact assembly  240  of another module  220  when the connector  226  of the module  220  is coupled to that other module  220 . Thus, when a first module  220  is removably coupled to a second module  220  by coupling a connector  224  of the first module  220  to a connector  226  of the second module  220 , the contact assembly  240  coupled to the connector  224  can be received in a lateral direction through the opening  242  and within the interior region  251 , and can engage the circuit board  222  of the second module  220 . The contact assembly  240  can then carry a signal from the circuit board  222  of the first module  220  to the circuit board  222  of the second module  220 .  FIGS. 12 and 13  illustrate the connector  224  of module  220  with the circuit board  222  removed (for illustrative purposes) and a connector  226 ′ of another module  220 ′, shown uncoupled and coupled, respectively. As shown in  FIG. 13 , when the connector  224  is removably coupled to the connector  226 ′, the contact assembly  240  is received within the interior region  251 ′ of the connector  226 ′. Further, the connector  224  is magnetically coupled to the connector  226 ′ via the magnets  250  of both the connector  224  and the connector  226 ′, and the protrusion  232  of connector  224  is received within a recess (not shown in  FIGS. 12 and 13 ) of the connector  226 ′ and the recess  234  of connector  224  receives a corresponding protrusion (not shown in  FIGS. 12 and 13 ) of the connector  226 ′. 
     As described above for the previous embodiment, the module  220  can also be used or interconnected with a component of a different building block system, such as a LEGO® block system. More specifically, each connector  224 ,  226  includes mounting portions  230  that can be used to removably couple the module  220  to such a component of a different building block system (see, e.g.,  FIG. 17  illustrating modules  320 ,  320 ′ coupled to a LEGO® block). In this embodiment, the mounting portion  230  is substantially u-shaped and defines a recessed area, as best shown in the bottom view of  FIG. 3 . The recessed area of the mounting portions  230  can matingly couple to, for example, a protrusion or post of a LEGO® block (see, e.g., modules  320  and  320 ′ in  FIG. 17 ) to removably couple the module  220  to the LEGO® block. 
       FIGS. 15-17  illustrate components of another embodiment of a modular electronic building system. A modular electronic building block system  300  (also referred to herein as “system”, “block system” or “electronic building block system” or “electronic building system”) can include one or more electronic modules  320  (also referred to herein as “modules,” “blocks,” or “electronic blocks”) that can each be removably coupled to at least one other module  320  (see  FIG. 17  illustrating two modules  320  and  320 ′ coupled together). 
     The modules  320  can include the same or similar features and can provide the same or similar function(s) as described above for modules  120  and  220 , and each module  320  of system  300  can be coupled to another module  320  in the same manner as described for module  220 . Thus, some details of the module  320  are not described herein. Further, although not shown in  FIGS. 15-17 , the modules  320  of the system  300  can each include one or more electrical components (e.g., electrical components  135 ) as described above for system  100  that can each provide that module  320  with a particular functionality, and include various categories and types of modules as described above. For example, the system  300  can include a power module  320  and when the power module  320  is removably coupled to another module  320  having an electrical component, the power module  320  can provide power to that other module  320 . 
     The module  320  includes a printed circuit board  322  (also referred to as “PCB” or “circuit board”) coupled to a first connector  324  and a second connector  326 . The circuit board  322  can have the same or similar structure and function as the circuit boards  122  and  222  described above. 
     The connectors  324  and  326  can also be the same as or similar to the connectors  224 ,  226  described above. For example, each connector  324  and  326  includes a common housing  328  that can be fixedly or permanently coupled to the circuit board  322  with, for example, a mechanical fastener (e.g., bolt, screw, rivet, etc.)  358 . For example, as described above for module  220 , the circuit board  322  can include or define openings (not shown) and the connectors  324  and  326  can each define corresponding openings (not shown) that can receive the fastener  358  therethrough to secure the circuit board  322  to the connectors  324  and  326 . The circuit board  322  can also define openings (not shown) that can receive a locating pin (not shown) of the connectors  324  and  326  as described above for module  220 . 
     As with previous embodiments, the circuit board  322  is coupled to the connectors  324  and  326  such that a bottom surface  343  (see, e.g.,  FIG. 16 ) of the circuit board  322  contacts a top surface (not shown) of the housing  328  of each of the connectors  324  and  326 . When coupled to the circuit board  322 , the connectors  324  and  326  are disposed below or beneath the circuit board  322 . In addition, a side surface  339  of the circuit board  322  is aligned or substantially aligned with a side surface  333  of the housing  328  of the connectors  324  and  326 , and a front or end surface  345  of the circuit board  322  is aligned or substantially aligned with the front surface  337  of the housing  328  of the connectors  324  and  326 . 
     The common housing  328  defines two receptacles (not shown) that can each receive therein a magnet (not shown) that can be used to removably couple each of the connectors  324  and  326  to a connector of a different module  320  of the system  300 . The magnets can be the same as or similar to and function the same as or similar to the magnets described above for modules  120  and  220 . For example, with the magnets disposed within the receptacles, a magnetic force can be applied/transferred through a front surface  337  of the housing  328  of the connectors  324  and  326 . Thus, the connectors  324  and  326  can each be removably coupled to another connector of another module  320  through magnetic force when the front surface  337  of the housing  328  of the connectors  324  and  326  engages/contacts a front surface of a housing of another connector (similarly constructed with magnets disposed within a receptacle). In other words, the connectors  324  and  326  will be magnetically coupled to the other connectors via magnetic force of the magnets. 
     The connectors  324  and  326  of the module  320  also include an interlocking coupling mechanism that includes a protrusion  332  and a recess  334  defined by the housing  328  that can interlock, mate, or complimentarily fit with a recess  334  and protrusion  332 , respectively, of another connector of another module  320 . The interlocking of the protrusions  332  and recesses  334  can inhibit two modules  320  from sliding laterally or side-to-side with respect to each other when removably coupled together. In this embodiment, the protrusion  332  is disposed next to or adjacent to the recess  334  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 15 and 16 . 
     The connectors  324 ,  326  of the module  320  can each be coupled to a different connector of another module  320  with the magnets and the interlocking coupling mechanism (e.g., protrusion  332  and recess  334 ), which further help maintain the connectors of the different modules coupled together. When the module  320  is removably coupled to another module  320  via the magnets of the connectors  324  or  326 , a front surface  337  of the housing  328  of the connectors  324 ,  326  of the module  320  contacts a front surface of the housing of the connector of the other module  320 , as described above for previous embodiments. Further, when the module  320  is removably coupled to another module  320 , a side surface  333  of the housing  328  of the connector  324  or  326  of the module  320  is aligned or substantially aligned with a side surface of the housing of the connector of the other module  320 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 17 , the module  320  is removably coupled to the module  320 ′ and the side surface  333  of the housing  328  of connector  326  is aligned with the side surface  333 ′ of the housing  328 ′ of the connector  324 ′. 
     The module  320  further includes a contact assembly  340  that is permanently or fixedly coupled to the connector  324  and to the circuit board  322 . The contact assembly  340  can be constructed the same as or similar to the contact assembly  240  and can include a base  344  and multiple electrical contacts or conductors  346  coupled to the base  344 , as best shown in  FIG. 15 . The contacts  346  can be, for example, spring probes or small metal plate. In this embodiment, there are  13  contacts  346 , but it should be understood that a different number of contacts  346  can be used. The contact assembly  340  can also include a mounting block (not shown in  FIGS. 15-17 ) extending from a bottom surface of the base  344  that can be received within an interior region of the connector  324  as described above for contact assembly  240 . The circuit board  322  can be coupled to the connector  324  in the same manner as described above for module  320  such that the contact assembly  340  is sandwiched between the housing  328  of connector  324  and the circuit board  322  and is maintained permanently coupled with a pressure fit. Further, when the circuit board  322  is coupled to the connectors  324 ,  326 , the magnets are held or maintained within the receptacles of the housing  328 . As shown, for example, in  FIGS. 15 and 17 , when the module  320  is assembled with the circuit board  322  coupled to the connectors  324  and  326 , a portion of the contact assembly  340  extends outwardly from the front surface  337  of the housing  328  of connector  324 . 
     As described for module  220 , the connector  326  of the module  320  does not include a contact assembly fixedly or permanently coupled thereto. Thus, for a given module  320 , the module  320  will have a connector  324  that has a contact assembly  340  permanently or fixedly coupled thereto and a module  326  that does not have a contact assembly  340  permanently or fixedly coupled thereto. For the connector  326 , the circuit board  322  is coupled to the housing  328  of the connector  326  in the same manner as the circuit board  322  is coupled to the housing  328  of connector  324 . Without a contact assembly, a front opening (not shown in  FIGS. 15-17 ) in communication with an interior region (not shown in  FIGS. 15-17 ) is defined between the circuit board  322  and the housing  328  of connector  326 . The opening and interior region can receive a portion of a contact assembly  340  of another module  320  when the connector  326  of the module  320  is coupled to that other module  320 . Thus, when a first module  320  is removably coupled to a second module  320 , the contact assembly  340  coupled to the connector  324  can engage the circuit board  322  of the second module  320  and carry a signal from the circuit board  322  of the first module  320  to the circuit board  322  of the second module  320 . 
     As described above for the previous embodiments, the module  320  can also be used or interconnected with a component of a different building block system, such as a LEGO® block system. More specifically, each connector  324 ,  326  includes mounting portions  330  that can be used to removably couple the module  320  to such a component of a different building block system (see, e.g.,  FIG. 17  illustrating modules  320 ,  320 ′ coupled to a LEGO° block  315 ). In this embodiment, the mounting portion  330  is substantially u-shaped and defines a recessed area, as best shown in the bottom view of  FIG. 16 . The recessed area of the mounting portions  330  can matingly couple to, for example, a protrusion or post P of a LEGO® block LB as shown in in  FIG. 17 ) to removably couple the modules  320 ,  320 ′ to the LEGO® block LB. 
     As described above, each module of a system as described herein may be uniquely configured to provide a quick visual indication to a user of each module&#39;s function.  FIGS. 18-20  illustrate example modules with such visual indicators.  FIG. 18  illustrates a system  400 A with modules  420 A and  420 A′ coupled together. The modules  420 A,  420 A′ include a circuit board  422 A,  422 A′, male connectors  424 A,  424 A′ with contact assemblies (not shown), and female connectors  426 A,  426 A′. In this embodiment, the connectors  424 A,  424 A′ and  426 A,  426 A′ are color coded to indicate a different type of module. For example, the connectors  424 A and  426 A can be a first color (e.g., green) and the connectors  424 A′ and  426 ′ can be a second color (e.g., pink). The first color can indicate, for example, a power module, and the second color can indicate an input module such as a module having a switch. 
       FIG. 19  illustrates a system  400 B with modules  420 B and  420 B′ coupled together. The modules  420 B,  420 B′ include a circuit board  422 B,  422 B′, male connectors  424 B,  424 B′ with contact assemblies (not shown), and female connectors  426 B,  426 B′. In this embodiment, the modules  420 B,  420 B′ each includes two indicator strips  459 B,  459 B′ attached to the circuit boards  422 B,  422 B′ that can indicate a different type of module. For example, the indicator strips  459 B of module  420 B can be a first color (e.g., green) and the indicator strips  459 B′ of module  420 B′ can be a second color (e.g., pink). The first color can indicate, for example, a power module, and the second color can indicate an input module such as a module having a switch. 
       FIG. 20  illustrates a system  400 C with modules  420 C and  420 C′ coupled together. The modules  420 C,  420 C′ include a circuit board  422 C,  422 C′, male connectors  424 C,  424 C′ with contact assemblies (not shown), and female connectors  426 C,  426 C′. In this embodiment, the fasteners  458 C,  458 C′ used to couple the circuit boards  422 C,  422 C′ to the connectors  424 C,  424 C′,  426 C,  426 C′, can be color-coded. For example, the fasteners  458 C of module  420 C can be a first color (e.g., green) and the fasteners  458 ′ of module  420 C′ can be a second color (e.g., pink). The first color can indicate, for example, a power module, and the second color can indicate an input module such as a module having a switch. 
       FIGS. 21 and 22  illustrate alternative embodiments of connectors  524  and  526  and of a contact assembly  540  that can be included in any of the embodiments of a module described herein. Other features of the connectors  524 ,  526  and contact assembly  540  can be the same or similar to previously described embodiments. The connectors  524  and  526  have a common housing  528  with an interior region  541 , as described for previous embodiments. In this embodiment, the housing  528  includes a ramped or angled surface  560  within the interior region  541 , and the contact assembly  540  includes a base  562  that has a bottom angled surface  562 . The bottom angled surface  562  of the contact assembly  540  can matingly engage the angled surface  560  of the housing  528  of connectors  524 ,  526 . The angled surfaces  560 ,  562  can help guide the insertion of the contact assembly  540  of one module into the interior region  541  of a second module when being coupled together as described herein. 
     Although embodiments of modules (e.g.,  120 ,  220 , etc.) are shown and described as having a connector (e.g., connectors  124  and  126 ) coupled to one end or two opposite ends or edges of a circuit board (e.g., circuit boards  122 ), in other embodiments, a module can include connectors coupled to more than two ends or edges of a circuit board. For example,  FIGS. 23A-23C  are each a schematic illustration of a side view of a module including a circuit board and one or more connectors. The modules of  FIGS. 23A-23C  can include various different embodiments of a connector and/or circuit board as described herein. 
       FIG. 23A  illustrates a module  620 A including a circuit board  622 A, one connector  626 A coupled to a single edge or end portion of the circuit board  622 A and an electronic component  635 A.  FIG. 23B  illustrates a module  620 B including a circuit board  622 B, two connectors  624 B and  626 B coupled to a single edge or end portion of the circuit board  622 B, and an electronic component  635 B.  FIG. 23C  illustrates a module  620 C including a circuit board  622 C, three connectors  624 C,  624 C′,  626 C coupled to three different edges or end portions of the circuit board  622 C, and an electronic component  635 C. The module  620 C can also include a fourth connector, e.g., a connector  626 C′ (not shown in the side view) on the opposite side of the circuit board  622 C as connector  624 C′. 
     Although not shown, for any of the electronic building block systems described herein an adapter(s) or foot member can be included to adjust the height of a connector (e.g.,  124 ,  126 ,  224 ,  226 , etc.). For example, an adapter can be coupled to a bottom portion of a connector to increase a length or height of the connector. Such adapters can be, for example, adhesively coupled to a bottom portion of the connector. In some embodiments, the adapter can include a mounting member or portion similar to the mounting portions (e.g.,  130 ,  230 , etc.) described above, such that the adapter can engage complementarily shaped components of a different building block system such as a LEGO® block. 
     As described herein, modules of an electronic building block system are adapted to have a variety of different types of functionality and to include the appropriate connectors, circuit boards, and associated electrical components coupled to the circuit boards to perform the desired functionality. The modules shown in the illustrated embodiments are for exemplary and demonstrative purposes, and are not intended to be limiting. 
     It should be understood that the structures, features, functionality, and other characteristics of the various example embodiments of the systems disclosed herein and illustrated in  FIGS. 1-23C  may be combined with each other in any manner and in any combination or sub-combination and all such manners and combinations are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
     As described above in the many examples of modules and systems, numerous modules may be coupled together to achieve various functionalities of the systems. Modules may be coupled in a cascading manner in which the inclusion of one module in the system may affect the functionality of downstream modules in a first manner and inclusion of a different module in the system may affect the function of downstream modules in another manner different than the first manner. That is, modules coupled together in a system may have dependencies upon one another to affect functionality thereof and of the entire system. A simple example to demonstrate this concept, but is not intended to be limiting, includes a system having three modules, for example, a power module, a button module, and an LED module. The button module and the LED module are dependent on the power module, and the LED module is dependent on the button module. To demonstrate the dependency of the button module and the LED module on the power module, if the power module is not providing any power, then neither the button module nor the LED module can operate in their intended manner. Similarly, to demonstrate the dependency of the LED module on the button module, in some embodiments, if the button is not depressed or otherwise activated to close the circuit, the LED module will not be illuminated, and if the button is depressed, the LED module will be illuminated. In other words, cascading modules in a system affect operation and functionality of downstream modules. In some embodiments, if the button is not disposed between the LED and power module, the LED will illuminate and the button will have no function. 
     The foregoing description has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. The descriptions were selected to explain the principles of the invention and their practical application to enable others skilled in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. 
     While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Where schematics and/or embodiments described above indicate certain components arranged in certain orientations or positions, the arrangement of components may be modified. While the embodiments have been particularly shown and described, it will be understood that various changes in form and details may be made. Any portion of the apparatus and/or methods described herein may be combined in any combination, except mutually exclusive combinations. The embodiments described herein can include various combinations and/or sub-combinations of the functions, components, and/or features of the different embodiments described. 
     Where methods described above indicate certain events occurring in certain order, the ordering of certain events may be modified. Additionally, certain of the events may be performed concurrently in a parallel process when possible, as well as performed sequentially as described above. 
     In addition to the previously described exemplary connectors, many modifications to the connectors are possible, including, but not limited to, the housing of a connector, the type of conductors or contacts used, the number of conductors or contacts, as well as the number of magnets, the shape of the magnets, the polarity of the magnets, the manner in which the connectors are couple to the circuit board of the module, etc.