Patent Description:
Accordingly, there is a need for improved educational devices, puzzles, and toys.

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of the present disclosure will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

<FIG> is a perspective view of a three-dimensional, geometric art toy <NUM> (also sometimes referred to herein simply as an "art toy") according to one representative and non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. Additionally, <FIG> is another perspective view of the geometric art toy <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. In particular, <FIG> more clearly illustrates (in phantom) certain features of the art toy <NUM>.

The design of the art toy <NUM> can be varied as desired. In certain embodiments, as illustrated, the art toy <NUM> is comprised of a plurality of toy members <NUM> (some of which and/or portions of which are illustrated in phantom in <FIG>) that are movably, e.g., hingedly, connected to one another. For example, in one such embodiment, the art toy <NUM> can comprise twelve toy members <NUM> that are each movably connected to two adjacent toy members <NUM>. Additionally, in some embodiments, each of the toy members <NUM> can be formed in the shape of a tetrahedron (or a three-sided pyramid, with a base). Alternatively, the art toy <NUM> can include greater than or less than twelve toy members <NUM>, one or more of the toy members <NUM> can be movably connected to more than two adjacent two members <NUM> or only one adjacent toy member <NUM>, and/or one or more of the toy members <NUM> can be formed in another suitable shape.

As an overview, as described in greater detail herein below, the art toy <NUM> is designed to be selectively and stably positioned in a plurality of alternative configurations. Additionally, as illustrated herein, various such configurations can be substantially symmetrical about one or more axes that extend through a center of the configuration. More particularly, as shown, the art toy <NUM> includes the plurality of toy members <NUM> that are connected to one another and that are movable relative to one another such that the art toy <NUM> can be selectively and stably positioned in the plurality of alternative configurations. For example, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate the art toy <NUM> and/or the toy members <NUM> being positioned in a first configuration, i.e. a cube configuration. Further, in addition to each of the toy members <NUM> being movably, e.g., hingedly, connected to one or more adjacent toy members <NUM>, each of the toy members <NUM> also includes one or more magnets <NUM> (two magnets <NUM> of which are illustrated in phantom in <FIG>) that are positioned and oriented so as to effectively stabilize the art toy <NUM> and/or the toy members <NUM> relative to one another when the art toy <NUM> and/or the toy members <NUM> are positioned in any of the plurality of alternative configurations.

Still further, as provided herein, in certain embodiments, a plurality of art toys <NUM> can be utilized together as part of a toy assembly <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>), i.e. the plurality of art toys <NUM> can be selectively coupled together to form the toy assembly <NUM> that can selectively and stably be positioned in various other configurations. More particularly, the precise positioning and orientation of the magnets <NUM>, as disclosed in greater detail herein below, enables each of the art toys <NUM> in to be positioned in any of the various individual configurations disclosed herein, and to be subsequently selectively and stably coupled to one or more additional art toys <NUM> to provide the toy assembly <NUM> that can be selectively and stably positioned in various additional, alternative configurations.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, each of the toy members <NUM> can be substantially identical in size and design, with the exception of the positioning and orientation of the one or more magnets <NUM>. For example, in one embodiment, each of the toy members <NUM> can be formed as a tetrahedron, having four triangle-shaped surfaces <NUM> and six edges <NUM> that are sized to enable the art toy <NUM> to be positioned in the cube configuration with no interior voids or cavities within the cube. Moreover, in some embodiments, the art toy <NUM> can include one or more designs or indicia <NUM> that are included on one or more of the surfaces <NUM> of each toy member <NUM>.

As further illustrated in <FIG>, when the user desires to display the art toy <NUM>, e.g., as a work of art, the art toy <NUM> can further include a display support, e.g., a display base <NUM>, a display box <NUM> and/or a display hanger <NUM>, that can be used to support the art toy <NUM>, i.e. the toy members <NUM>, relative to a surface <NUM>, e.g., the ground, a wall, a ceiling, a table top, a counter top, or another surface.

It should be appreciated that the display support, e.g., the display base <NUM>, the display box <NUM> and/or the display hanger <NUM>, can have any suitable design that is able to support the art toy <NUM> relative to the surface <NUM>. For example, in certain embodiments, the display base <NUM> can be a rectangular or square-shaped plate that can be placed on and/or affixed to the surface <NUM>, e.g., with nails or screws. Additionally, the display base <NUM> can include one or more support magnets <NUM> (illustrated in phantom) that interact with the magnets <NUM> of the art toy <NUM> to support the art toy <NUM> relative to the surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, the display base <NUM> is sized to be no larger than the art toy <NUM> so that the display base <NUM> does not interfere with the display of the art toy <NUM>.

The display box <NUM> can be a rectangular or square-shaped box that can be placed on and/or affixed to the surface <NUM>, e.g., with nails or screws. Additionally, the display box <NUM> can have an opening that is sized and shaped to effectively receive and display the art toy <NUM> as desired.

Further, as shown, the display hanger <NUM> can be a hook that can be mounted on the surface <NUM>. Additionally and/or alternatively, the display hanger <NUM> can include a thin string or rope having a tensile strength that is sufficient to support the weight of the art toy <NUM>. Further, in one embodiment, the display hanger <NUM> can be adapted to engage a connector <NUM> that can be selectively or fixedly secured to one or more of the surfaces of the art toy <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the connector <NUM> can have any suitable design that enables the art toy <NUM> to be stably supported relative to the surface <NUM>. For example, the connector <NUM> can include one or more hanger members that can be used to selectively support the art toy <NUM> from the top, the bottom and/or the sides of the art toy <NUM> when the art toy <NUM> is displayed as desired.

<FIG> is a perspective view of an embodiment of a toy member <NUM> that can be used as part of the geometric art toy <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. For example, as noted above, the art toy <NUM> can be comprised of twelve toy members <NUM> that are substantially identical in size and design, with the possible exception of the positioning and orientation of the one or more magnets <NUM> (illustrated, for example, in <FIG>).

As shown in <FIG>, the toy member <NUM> can be formed as a tetrahedron having four triangle-shaped surfaces, i.e. a first surface 216A, a second surface 216B, a third surface 216C and a fourth surface 216D, and six edges, i.e. a first edge 218A, a second edge 218B, a third edge 218C, a fourth edge <NUM>, a fifth edge 218E and a sixth edge 218F. In one embodiment, using a length measurement of one unit as a base, the edges 218A-218F can be sized with the first edge 218A being one (<NUM>) unit, the second edge 218B being one (<NUM>) unit, the third edge 218C being the square root of two (" <NUM>) units, the fourth edge <NUM> being one-half the square root of three (√<NUM>/<NUM>) units, the fifth edge 218E being one-half the square root of three (√<NUM>/<NUM>) units, and the sixth edge 218F being one-half the square root of three (√<NUM>/<NUM>) units. With this design, as noted above, the twelve toy members <NUM>, i.e. the twelve tetrahedrons, can be effectively formed into the cube configuration with no interior voids or cavities within the cube, such as shown in <FIG>. More specifically, the first surface 216A of the toy member <NUM> can be bounded by the first edge 218A being one (<NUM>) unit, the second edge 218B being one (<NUM>) unit, and the third edge 218C being the square root of two ("<NUM>) units, with the first surface 216A forming one triangle-shaped half of one of the outer surfaces of the cube. Additionally, the other surfaces 216B, 216C, <NUM> of the toy member <NUM> can be oriented to extend into the interior of the cube when the art toy <NUM> and/or the toy members <NUM> are positioned in the cube configuration. Alternatively, the edges 218A- 218F can be designed to be different lengths relative to one another.

It should be appreciated that the use of the terms "first surface", "second surface", "third surface" and "fourth surface" is merely for purposes of description and ease of illustration, and any of the surfaces 216A-216D can be referred to as the "first surface", the "second surface", the "third surface" and/or the "fourth surface". Similarly, it should also be appreciated that the use of the terms "first edge", "second edge", "third edge", "fourth edge", "fifth edge" and "sixth edge" is merely for purposes of description and ease of illustration, and any of the edges 218A-218F can be referred to as the "first edge", the "second edge", the "third edge" the "fourth edge", the "fifth edge" and/or the "sixth edge".

<FIG> is a simplified schematic top view of the toy member <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> prior to the toy member <NUM> having been formed into the shape of the tetrahedron. More specifically, <FIG> illustrates a two-dimensional layout of the surfaces 216A-216D and the edges 218A-218F relative to one another that can be used as a template for forming the toy member <NUM>, prior to the toy member <NUM> actually being positioned and/or formed into the shape of the tetrahedron.

It should be appreciated that as illustrated in <FIG>, the two edges labeled as the first edge 218A will be positioned together as a single edge when the toy member <NUM> is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron. Similarly, it should be appreciated that as illustrated in <FIG>, the two edges labeled as the second edge 218B will be positioned together as a single edge when the toy member <NUM> is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron. Moreover, it should also be appreciated that as illustrated in <FIG>, the two edges labeled as the sixth edge 218F will be positioned together as a single edge when the toy member <NUM> is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron.

In addition to the lengths of each of the edges 218A-218F, as noted above, and the size of each of the triangle-shaped surfaces 216A-216D, <FIG> also illustrates the angles that exist between each of the adjacent edges 218A-218F. More particularly, with the six edges 218A-218F having the sizes as specifically noted above, the angles between the edges 218A-218F are as follows: (i) a first angle 230A between the first edge 218A and the second edge 218B is approximately <NUM> degrees; (ii) a second angle 230B between the first edge 218A and the third edge 218C is approximately <NUM> degrees; (iii) a third angle 230C between the second edge 218B and the third edge 218C is approximately <NUM> degrees; (iv) a fourth angle <NUM> between the third edge 218C and the fourth edge <NUM> is approximately <NUM> degrees; (v) a fifth angle 230E between the third edge 218C and the fifth edge 218E is approximately <NUM> degrees; (vi) a sixth angle 230F between the first edge 218A and the fifth edge 218E is approximately <NUM> degrees; (vii) a seventh angle <NUM> between the second edge 218B and the fourth edge <NUM> is approximately <NUM> degrees; (viii) an eighth angle <NUM> between the fourth edge <NUM> and the fifth edge 218E is approximately <NUM> degrees; (ix) a ninth angle <NUM> between the first edge 218A and the sixth edge 218F is approximately <NUM> degrees; (x) a tenth angle 230J between the second edge 218B and the sixth edge 218F is approximately <NUM> degrees; (xi) an eleventh angle <NUM> between the fourth edge <NUM> and the sixth edge 218F is approximately <NUM> degrees; and (xii) a twelfth angle <NUM> between the fifth edge 218E and the sixth edge 218F is approximately <NUM> degrees.

It should be appreciated that the use of the terms "first angle" through "twelfth angle" is merely for purposes of description and ease of illustration, and any of the angles 230A-<NUM> can be referred to as any of the "first angle" through the "twelfth angle".

Additionally, it should also be appreciated that in forming the toy member <NUM> into the shape of a tetrahedron from a two-dimensional layout such as illustrated in <FIG>, the tetrahedron, i.e. the toy member <NUM>, will be formed with a hollow interior. Alternatively, the toy member <NUM> can be formed into the shape of a tetrahedron in a different manner, and/or the toy member <NUM> can be formed without a hollow interior.

<FIG> is another simplified schematic top view of the toy member <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> prior to the toy member <NUM> having been formed into the shape of the tetrahedron. More specifically, <FIG> illustrates an alternative two- dimensional layout of the surfaces 216A-<NUM> and the edges 218A-218F relative to one another that can be used as a template for forming the toy member <NUM>, prior to the toy member <NUM> actually being positioned and/or formed into the shape of the tetrahedron.

It should be appreciated that as illustrated in <FIG>, the two edges labeled as the second edge 218B will be positioned together as a single edge when the toy member <NUM> is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron. Similarly, it should be appreciated that as illustrated in <FIG>, the two edges labeled as the third edge 218C will be positioned together as a single edge when the toy member <NUM> is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron. Moreover, it should also be appreciated that as illustrated in <FIG>, the two edges labeled as the fifth edge 218E will be positioned together as a single edge when the toy member <NUM> is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron.

<FIG> is still another simplified schematic top view of the toy member <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> prior to the toy member <NUM> having been formed into the shape of the tetrahedron. More specifically, <FIG> illustrates another alternative two- dimensional layout of the surfaces 216A-<NUM> and the edges 218A-218F relative to one another that can be used as a template for forming the toy member <NUM>, prior to the toy member <NUM> actually being positioned and/or formed into the shape of the tetrahedron.

It should be appreciated that as illustrated in <FIG>, the two edges labeled as the first edge 218A will be positioned together as a single edge when the toy member <NUM> is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron. Similarly, it should be appreciated that as illustrated in <FIG>, the two edges labeled as the third edge 218C will be positioned together as a single edge when the toy member <NUM> is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron. Moreover, it should also be appreciated that as illustrated in <FIG>, the two edges labeled as the fourth edge <NUM> will be positioned together as a single edge when the toy member <NUM> is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron.

<FIG> is a simplified schematic top view of a toy member, i.e. a first toy member 312A, similar to the toy member <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>, the first toy member 312A including one or more first magnets 314A. In one embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, the first toy member 312A can include three first magnets 314A, with one first magnet 314A being coupled (e.g., positioned adj acent to, physically attached to (e.g., adhered), held against, and the like) to each of the first surface 316A, the third surface 316C and the fourth surface <NUM>. Alternatively, the first toy member 312A can include greater than three or less than three first magnets 314A, and/or one or more of the first magnets 314A can be coupled to another surface of the first toy member 312A.

The size, shape, orientation and polarity of the first magnets 314A can be varied to suit the specific requirements of the first toy member 312A and/or the art toy <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>). For example, in one embodiment, the first magnets 314A can be bar magnets that are oriented as shown, i.e. with the north poles (shown with an "N") and the south poles (shown with an "S") oriented as illustrated. More particularly, in this embodiment, (i) the first magnet 314A coupled to the first surface 316A is oriented with the north pole facing toward the third edge 318C; (ii) the first magnet 314A coupled to the third surface 316C is oriented with the south pole facing toward the second edge 318B; and (iii) the first magnet 314A coupled to the fourth surface <NUM> is oriented with the north pole facing toward the third edge 318C. Alternatively, the first magnets 314A can have a different design and/or the first magnets 314A can be oriented in a different manner than specifically shown in <FIG>, i.e. to achieve a different polarity for the first magnets 314A. Additionally, in some embodiments, each of the first magnets 314A can be designed to have a magnetic strength of at least approximately one pound. Alternatively, the first magnets 314A can be designed to exhibit a different magnetic strength.

In one embodiment, each of the first magnets 314A can be coupled to a surface of the first toy member 312A within the interior (i.e. an inner surface) of the first toy member 312A when the first toy member 312A is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron. With this design, the first magnets 314A may not be visible to the user, and thus may not impact the appearance of the first toy member 312A and/or the art toy <NUM>. Alternatively, one or more of the first magnets 314A can be coupled to an outer or exterior surface of the first toy member 312A when the first toy member 312A is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron.

<FIG> is a simplified schematic top view of a toy member, i.e. a second toy member 312B, again similar to the toy member <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>, the second toy member 312B including one or more second magnets 314B. In one embodiment, as illustrated in <FIG>, the second toy member 312B can include three second magnets 314B, with one second magnet 314B being coupled to each of the first surface 316A, the third surface 316C and the fourth surface <NUM>. Alternatively, the second toy member 312B can include greater than three or less than three second magnets 314B, and/or one or more of the second magnets 314B can be coupled to another surface of the second toy member 312B.

The size, shape, orientation and polarity of the second magnets 314B can be varied to suit the specific requirements of the second toy member 312B and/or the art toy <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>). For example, in one embodiment, the second magnets 314B can be bar magnets that are oriented as shown, i.e. with the north poles (shown with an "N") and the south poles (shown with an "S") oriented as illustrated. More particularly, in this embodiment, (i) the second magnet 314B coupled to the first surface 316A is oriented with the south pole facing toward the third edge 318C; (ii) the second magnet 314B coupled to the third surface 316C is oriented with the north pole facing toward the second edge 318B; and (iii) the second magnet 314B coupled to the fourth surface <NUM> is oriented with the south pole facing toward the third edge 318C. Alternatively, the second magnets 314B can have a different design and/or the second magnets 314B can be oriented in a different manner than specifically shown in <FIG>, i.e. to achieve a different polarity for the second magnets 314B. Additionally, in some embodiments, each of the second magnets 314B can be designed to have a magnetic strength of at least approximately one pound. Alternatively, the second magnets 314B can be designed to exhibit a different magnetic strength.

In one embodiment, each of the second magnets 314B can be coupled to a surface of the second toy member 312B within the interior (i.e. an inner surface) of the second toy member 312B when the second toy member 312B is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron. With this design, the second magnets 314B may not be visible to the user, and thus may not impact the appearance of the second toy member 312B and/or the art toy <NUM>. Alternatively, one or more of the second magnets 314B can be coupled to an outer or exterior surface of the second toy member 312B when the second toy member 312B is formed into the shape of a tetrahedron.

It should be appreciated that in comparing the first toy member 312A illustrated in <FIG> and the second toy member 312B illustrated in <FIG>, the orientation and, thus, the polarity of the first magnets 314A of the first toy member 312A is substantially directly opposite to that of the orientation and polarity of the second magnets 314B of the second toy member 312B. With this design, in conjunction with the specific movable coupling of a plurality of first toy members 312A and a plurality of second toy members 312B to form the art toy <NUM>, as described in greater detail herein below, the art toy <NUM> can be stably positioned and maintained in each of the alternative configurations as illustrated herein.

Moreover, as further provided herein, the precise positioning and orientation of the first magnets 314A of the first toy member 312A and the second magnets 314B of the second toy member 312B enable the assembled art toy <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) to be subsequently selectively and stably coupled to one or more additional art toys <NUM> to provide the toy assembly <NUM> (illustrated in <FIG>) that can be selectively and stably positioned in various additional, alternative configurations.

Additionally, it should be appreciated that the use of the terms "first toy member" and "second toy member" is merely for purposes of description and ease of illustration, and any of the toy members 312A, 312B can be referred to as the "first toy member" and/or the "second toy member". Similarly, it should also be appreciated that the use of the terms "first magnets" and "second magnets" is merely for purposes of description and ease of illustration, and any of the magnets 314A, 314B can be referred to as the "first magnets" and/or the "second magnets".

<FIG> is a simplified schematic top view of two toy members, i.e. two first toy members 312A illustrated in <FIG>, that are movably connected to one another with a first flexible connector 430A, e.g., a first hinge. More particularly, <FIG> illustrates that the first flexible connector 430A is utilized to movably couple together the second edge 418B of one first toy member 312A with the second edge 418B of another first toy member 312A. Stated in another manner, when two first toy members 312A are positioned substantially adjacent to one another, and are thus connected to one another, the first flexible connector 430A is positioned to movably connect together the second edges 418B of the adjacent first toy members 312A.

The first flexible connector 430A can have any suitable design that enables the adjacent first toy members 312A to pivot relative to one another along the second edges 418B of each of the first toy members 312A. For example, in certain non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the first flexible connector 430A can be formed from a flexible adhesive, such as different types of tape and/or vinyl stickers. Alternatively, the first flexible connector 430A can be formed in another suitable manner.

<FIG> is a simplified schematic top view of two toy members, i.e. two second toy members 312B illustrated in <FIG>, that are movably connected to one another with a second flexible connector 430B, e.g., a second hinge. More particularly, <FIG> illustrates that the second flexible connector 430B is utilized to movably couple together the first edge 418A of one second toy member 312B with the first edge 418A of another second toy member 312B. Stated in another manner, when two second toy members 312B are positioned substantially adjacent to one another, and are thus connected to one another, the second flexible connector 430B is positioned to movably connect together the first edges 418A of the adjacent second toy members 312B.

The second flexible connector 430B can have any suitable design that enables the adjacent second toy members 312B to pivot relative to one another along the first edges 418A of each of the second toy members 312B. For example, in certain non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the second flexible connector 430B can be formed from a flexible adhesive, such as different types of tape and/or vinyl stickers. Alternatively, the second flexible connector 430B can be formed in another suitable manner.

<FIG> is a simplified schematic top view of two toy members, i.e. a first toy member 312A of <FIG> and a second toy member 312B illustrated in <FIG>, that are movably connected to one another with a third flexible connector 430C, e.g., a third hinge. More particularly, <FIG> illustrates that the third flexible connector 430C is utilized to movably connect together the first edge 418A of the first toy member 312A with the second edge 418B of the second toy member 312B. Stated in another manner, when a first toy member 312A and a second toy member 312B are positioned substantially adjacent to one another, and are thus connected to one another, the third flexible connector 430C is positioned to movably connect together the first edge 418A of the first toy member 312A and the second edge 418B of the adjacent second toy member 312B.

The third flexible connector 430C can have any suitable design that enables the adjacent first toy member 312A and second toy member 312B to pivot relative to one another along the first edge 418A and the second edge 418B, respectively, of each of the toy members 312A, 312B. For example, in certain non-exclusive alternative embodiments, the third flexible connector 430B can be formed from a flexible adhesive, such as different types of tape and/or vinyl stickers (or stickers formed from other suitable materials). Alternatively, the third flexible connector 430C can be formed in another suitable manner.

When <FIG> are viewed in conjunction with one another, it should be understood that (i) each first toy member 312A can be flexibly connected along the first edge 418A to the second edge 418B of an adjacent second toy member 312B (i.e. with adjacent first toy member 312A (i.e. with a third flexible connector 430C).

It should be appreciated that the use of the terms "first flexible connector", "second flexible connector" and "third flexible connector" is merely for purposes of description and ease of illustration, and any of the flexible connectors 430A, 430B, 430C can be referred to as the "first flexible connector" the "second flexible connector" and/or the "third flexible connector".

<FIG> is a simplified schematic top view of the geometric art toy <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. As shown, the geometric art toy <NUM> includes a plurality of toy members, i.e. a plurality of first toy members 312A illustrated in <FIG> and a plurality of second toy members 312B illustrated in <FIG>, that are movably connected to one another utilizing one or more first flexible connectors 430A, one or more second flexible connectors 430B, and one or more third flexible connectors 430C. More particularly, <FIG> illustrates an embodiment of a general schematic layout of the toy members 312A, 312B relative to one another in the formation of the art toy <NUM>. As noted above, and as shown in <FIG>, each of the one or more first flexible connectors 430A is utilized to movably connect two first toy members 312A together, each of the one or more second flexible connectors 430B is utilized to movably connect two second toy members 312B together, and each of the one or more third flexible connectors 430C is utilized to movably connect one first toy member 312A and one second toy member 312B together. It should be appreciated that since <FIG> is illustrating a three-dimensional connection scheme in a two-dimensional illustration, the third flexible connectors 430C illustrated at either end of the FIGURE are, in reality, a single third flexible connector 430C. Additionally, it should be understood that the individual toy members 312A, 312B are illustrated as being spaced apart from one another and spaced apart from the flexible connectors 430A, 430B, 430C for purposes of clarity, i.e. such that the various connections between adjacent toy members 312A, 312B can be more clearly demonstrated. Further, the first magnets 314A of the first toy members 312A and the second magnets 314B of the second toy members 312B have been omitted from <FIG> for purposes of clarity.

In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the art toy <NUM> includes six first toy members 312A and six second toy members 312B. Additionally, as shown, each of the first toy members 312A is movably connected to one other first toy member 312A (i.e. with a first flexible connector 430A) and one second toy member 312B (i.e. with a third flexible connector 430C); and each of the second toy members 312B is movably connected to one other second toy member 312B (i.e. with a second flexible connector 430B) and one first toy member 312A (i.e. with a third flexible connector 430C). Alternatively, the art toy <NUM> can include greater than six or less than six first toy members 312A, greater than six or less than six second toy members 312B, and/or the toy members 312A, 312B can be movably connected to one another in a different manner. Additionally, in this embodiment, the art toy <NUM> includes twelve total flexible connectors 430A, 430B, 430C. More particularly, as shown, the art toy <NUM> includes three first flexible connectors 430A, three second flexible connectors 430B and six third flexible connectors 430C. Alternatively, the art toy <NUM> can include greater than or less than twelve flexible connectors 430A, 430B, 430C, and/or the art toy <NUM> can include different numbers of individual flexible connectors 430A, 430B, 430C than specifically illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrate various other potential configurations for the art toy <NUM>. With the specific positioning and orientation of the magnets 314A, 314B and the flexible connectors 430A, 430B, 430C as described in detail herein above, the art toy <NUM> can be stably maintained in any of the other potential configurations as disclosed and/or illustrated.

More particularly, <FIG> is a perspective view of the geometric art toy <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the geometric art toy <NUM> being in a second configuration; <FIG> is a perspective view of the geometric art toy <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the geometric art toy <NUM> being in a third configuration; <FIG> is a perspective view of the geometric art toy <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the geometric art toy <NUM> being in a fourth configuration; <FIG> is a perspective view of the geometric art toy <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the geometric art toy <NUM> being in a fifth configuration; <FIG> is a perspective view of the geometric art toy <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the geometric art toy <NUM> being in a sixth configuration; and <FIG> is a perspective view of the geometric art toy <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the geometric art toy <NUM> being in a seventh configuration.

During use of the art toy <NUM>, the individual toy members <NUM> can be quickly and easily moved and manipulated relative to one another to enable the user to form the art toy <NUM> into any of the disclosed configurations. Moreover, as noted, the positioning, orientation and polarity of the magnets <NUM> within each of the toy members <NUM> enables the art toy <NUM> to be stably maintained in any such configurations. As such, the art toy <NUM> and the toy members <NUM> can be viewed as an educational device for the study of polygonal solids, as a puzzle or toy that can be used for entertainment or amusement, and/or as a work of art that can be displayed for others to see.

<FIG> is a perspective view of a toy assembly <NUM> including a plurality of geometric art toys <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. For example, in some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, the toy assembly <NUM> can include four geometric art toys <NUM>. Alternatively, the toy assembly <NUM> can be designed to include greater than four or less than four art toys <NUM>.

Additionally, in one embodiment, each of the geometric art toys <NUM> within the toy assembly <NUM> is substantially identical in design. Further, each of the geometric art toys <NUM> can be selectively and stably positioned in the various alternative configurations as illustrated and described above.

Moreover, based on the precise positioning, orientation and polarity of the magnets 314A, 314B (illustrated in <FIG>, respectively), the geometric art toys <NUM> can be selectively and stably, i.e. magnetically, coupled together to form additional, alternative configurations with the toy assembly <NUM>. Additionally, various such additional, alternative configurations can by substantially symmetrical about one or more axes that extend through a center of the configuration. In various embodiments, each of the geometric art toys <NUM> can be positioned in the same individual configuration before the geometric art toys <NUM> are coupled together to form some of the additional, alternative configurations. Alternatively, one or more of the geometric art toys <NUM> can be positioned in different individual configurations before the geometric art toys <NUM> are coupled together to form others of the additional, alternative configurations.

During the development of the art toy <NUM> and/or the toy assembly <NUM>, it has been found that utilizing a number of art toys <NUM> of a multiple of four, results in a toy assembly <NUM> that fall into a neat family of complexity. It should further be appreciated that with the addition of more and more art toys <NUM> to the toy assembly <NUM>, and with the precise positioning and orientation of the magnets 314A, 314B within each of the art toys <NUM>, the toy assembly <NUM> can thus be manipulated into almost an infinite number of stable configurations.

In some representative embodiments, geometric art toys of the present disclosure include one or more magnets that are configured to move (e.g., shift, slide, rotate, and/or the like) in such a way that each moving magnet exhibits a given polarity through two or more faces of a toy member, in two or more directions, etc. Restated, a tetrahedral toy member of the geometric art toy is configured such that one or more magnets associated with that toy member moves, thereby exhibiting a polarity (e.g., a north or south polarity, a positive or negative polarity, etc.) through two or more faces of that tetrahedral toy member. For example, the moving magnet is configured to move in response to the presence of a nearby magnetic field, such as a magnetic field created by a magnet (e.g., a moving magnet) in an adjacent toy member.

In such embodiments, each moving magnet advantageously simulates a plurality of fixed magnets (non-moving magnets). For example, in some representative geometric art toys having only twelve tetrahedral toy members, each toy member includes only a single moving magnet, i.e., twelve total moving magnets in the geometric art toy. Due to the movement of each moving magnet, such embodiments advantageously simulate the functionality of geometric art toys having <NUM>, <NUM>, or another number of fixed magnets.

Before describing representative and non-limiting embodiments of geometric art toys having one or more moving magnets, it shall be understood that the present disclosure includes numerous implementations of this concept, including embodiments having any combination of features described with respect to previously described embodiments. In some embodiments, the geometric art toy includes one or more toy members having one or more moving magnets. For example, in some embodiments, all toy members of the geometric art toy include at least one moving magnet (e.g., one, two, or three moving magnets). In some embodiments, one or more toy members include at least one moving magnet (e.g., one, two, or three moving magnets), while other toy members do not include any moving magnets (e.g., at least one toy member, but less than all toy members, includes a moving magnet). In some embodiments, the moving magnets are the only magnets of each toy member. In some embodiments, one or more toy members includes at least one moving magnet and one or more fixed magnets, to provide additional functionality and entertainment. The present disclosure includes additional embodiments having any combination of the foregoing representative embodiments.

<FIG> schematically illustrate a representative embodiment of a tetrahedral toy member <NUM> having a single moving magnet <NUM> that is diametrically magnetized. The tetrahedral toy member <NUM> has four faces A, B, C, and D, with faces B and D hidden from view. In some embodiments, the A and D faces (i.e., a first face and a fourth face) form a right angle relative to each other, with one of the A or D faces being relatively larger than the other, and the B and C faces being substantially the same size as each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnet <NUM> is positioned inside a tetrahedral outer shell <NUM> in such a manner that it can rotate about its longitudinal axis <NUM>.

Generally, the magnet <NUM> is not permitted to move in an uncontrolled manner inside the tetrahedral toy member <NUM>. Rather, the tetrahedral toy member <NUM> is provided with one or more internal structures (e.g., a cradle) that retain the moving magnet <NUM> adjacent to two or three faces while allowing the moving magnet <NUM> to move within a controlled region. For example, in some embodiments, the toy member <NUM> is provided with an internal cradle, track, slot, compartment, cavity, support, and/or the like. Representative structures for enabling the magnet <NUM> to move within a controlled region are described below.

As shown in <FIG>, the moving magnet <NUM> is positioned adjacent to faces A and B such that it can move relative to the outer shell <NUM> about axis <NUM>. In <FIG>, the north portion of the magnet <NUM> is adjacent to face A (outlined in bold). By comparison, in <FIG>, the magnet <NUM> has rotated about the axis <NUM> such that the north portion is adjacent to face B (outlined in bold). As a result of this movement of the magnet, both the north and south sides of the magnet <NUM> can be positioned adjacent to either face A or B. Accordingly, the magnet <NUM> can alternatingly exhibit a first polarity (e.g., a positive or negative polarity) through either face A or B. By "alternatingly," the present disclosure intends that the magnet exhibits the first polarity through one face at a time. Advantageously, this enables a single moving magnet <NUM> to simulate a plurality of fixed magnets.

The embodiment of <FIG> is representative, not limiting. In some embodiments, the magnet <NUM> is a cylinder magnet, a disc magnet, a spherical magnet, or another magnet type. In some embodiments, the magnet <NUM> translates, shifts, slides, or tumbles relative to outer shell <NUM> in order to alternatingly exhibit the first polarity through face A or face B. In some embodiments, the magnet <NUM> rotates in more than one direction, e.g., in the case of a spherical magnet <NUM>, about a center. This advantageously enables the magnet to alternatingly exhibit a polarity through more than two faces, e.g., three faces. In some embodiments, the magnet <NUM> is positioned adjacent to different faces, e.g., to adjacent to faces A and C, A and D, B and C, B and D, or D and C. In some embodiments, the magnet <NUM> is positioned adjacent to more than two faces, e.g., adjacent to faces A, B, and C. In some embodiments, the magnet <NUM> is positioned adjacent to a vertex where three faces meet (e.g., where faces A, B, and C meet).

In some embodiments, geometric art toys of the present disclosure include one or more moving-magnet toy members <NUM> such as shown in <FIG>, to provide enhanced entertainment, to reduce manufacturing cost, and/or for other benefit. In some embodiments, geometric art toys include two or more different types of moving-magnet toy member (e.g., a first type and a second type), each type having a different moving magnet configuration configured to alternatingly exhibit a magnet polarity through different faces. As described below, in some embodiments, the different moving-magnet toy member types are arranged to enable the selective magnetic coupling of toy members in one or more configurations (e.g., any one or more of the configurations shown in <FIG>).

<FIG> schematically shows one representative segment of a geometric art toy <NUM> having an ordered arrangement of flexibly-connected "A-type" and "B-type" moving-magnet tetrahedral toy members 1410A and 1410B, respectively, each of which includes one moving magnet <NUM> and an optional fixed magnet <NUM>. As with the toy member <NUM> of <FIG>, each toy member <NUM> includes four faces: A, B, C, and D. Aside from the placement of the moving magnets <NUM>, the A-type and B-type toy members <NUM> are structurally the same, i.e., have the same tetrahedral size and shape. Likewise, the moving magnets <NUM> are the same between the A-type and B-type toy members <NUM>. Although A-type toy members 1410A are structurally similar to B-type toy members 1410B in the illustrated embodiment, differences in polarities between the magnets of A-type and B-type toy members <NUM> arise when two or more toy members <NUM> are placed near each other. In some embodiments, not every A-type toy member 1410A has a same magnetic polarity configuration as every other A-type toy member 1410A, and/or not every B-type toy member 1410B has a same magnetic polarity configuration as every other B-type toy member 1410B. In some embodiments, A-type toy members 1410A have additional differences relative to B-type toy members 1410B.

In the illustrated embodiment, each A-type toy member 1410A includes one moving magnet <NUM> positioned adjacent to the A and B faces thereof, the moving magnet <NUM> being configured to alternatingly exhibit a first polarity (e.g., a positive polarity) through the A and B faces as a result of its controlled movement within the toy member 1410A. Representative structure for positioning the moving magnet <NUM> is described below. Each B-type toy member 1410B includes one moving magnet <NUM> positioned adjacent to the A and C faces thereof, the moving magnet <NUM> being configured to alternatingly exhibit a second polarity through the A and C faces as a result of its controlled movement with the toy member 1410B, the second polarity being different from the first polarity (i.e., a negative polarity in the example provided above). The optional fixed magnet <NUM> is positioned adjacent to the D face in each of the A- and B-type toy members <NUM>. In some embodiments, the polarity of the optional fixed magnet <NUM> differs between the A-type and B-type toy members <NUM>. In some embodiments, the polarity of the optional fixed magnet <NUM> is the same between the A-type and B-type toy members <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the "A-type" and "B-type" toy members <NUM> are ordered in an ABBA sequence. That is, an A-type toy member 1410A is flexibly connected to B-type toy member 1410B (such as with a flexible connector as described above), which is flexibly connected to another B-type toy member 1410B, which is connected to an A-type toy member 1410A. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the B side of each A-type toy member 1410A is flexibly connected to the C side of the adjacent B-type toy member 1410B. Adjacent B-type toy members 1410B have a different orientation such that adjacent B sides are flexibly connected. In some embodiments, A-type toy members 1410A and B-type toy member 1410B are flexibly connected in any connection scheme described herein.

In some embodiments, the ABBA sequence of <FIG> is repeated two or more times. For example, in one representative embodiment, the geometric art toy <NUM> of <FIG> includes twelve toy members <NUM>, each having a single moving magnet <NUM> as shown, but without the optional fixed magnet <NUM>. Thus, there are twelve moving magnets <NUM> in such embodiments. The twelve toy members <NUM> are connected in a loop, each toy member <NUM> being movably connected to two adjacent toy members <NUM> (as described above), with the ABBA sequence appearing four times total such that the geometric art toy <NUM> includes twelve toy members <NUM> connected in the following sequence: ABBAABBAABBA.

<FIG> illustrates one representative polarity configuration of the geometric art toy <NUM> of <FIG>. This polarity configuration is representative, not limiting. The polarity configuration shown in <FIG> is enabled by the moving magnets <NUM> shown in <FIG>. That is, when toy members <NUM> are positioned adjacent to each other (e.g., flexibly connected as shown), one or more of the moving magnets <NUM> (in the A-type toy members 1410A and/or B-type toy members 1410B) move such that the polarity configuration shown is achieved. For example, referring briefly again to <FIG>, the mere proximity of the moving magnets <NUM> of flexibly connected toy members 1410A and 1410B cause one or both of those moving magnets <NUM> to move such that they are attracted to each other, i.e., exhibit opposite polarities through the adjacent faces.

The polarity configuration of <FIG> will now be described in more detail, with reference to <FIG>. The moving magnet <NUM> of each A-type toy member 1410A is configured to alternatingly exhibit a positive polarity through each of the A and B faces. The C face remains un-magnetized. The D face is magnetized in either a positive or negative polarity by the optional fixed magnet <NUM>. The moving magnet <NUM> of each B-type toy member 1410B is configured to alternatingly exhibit a negative polarity through each of the A and C faces. The B face remains un-magnetized. The D face is magnetized in either a positive or negative polarity by the optional fixed magnet <NUM>.

Given the polarities described above and shown in <FIG>, when the A-type and B-type toy members are flexibly connected in the ordered combination shown in <FIG>, the positively-magnetized B face of each A-type toy member 1410A magnetically couples with the negatively-magnetized C face of the adj acent B-type toy member 1410B (e.g., when the geometric art toy <NUM> is manipulated into the configuration of <FIG>). Also, the unmagnetized B faces of the adjacent B-type toy members 1410B do not magnetically couple with each other. Likewise, the unmagnetized C faces of the A-type toy members 1410A do not magnetically couple with each other.

<FIG> shows another polarity configuration that is enabled by the configuration of <FIG>. The moving magnet <NUM> of each A-type toy member 1410A is configured to alternatingly exhibit a negative polarity through each of the A and B faces. The C face remains un-magnetized. The D face is magnetized in either a positive or negative polarity by the optional fixed magnet <NUM>. The moving magnet <NUM> of each B-type toy member 1410B is configured to alternatingly exhibit a positive polarity through each of the A and C faces. The B face remains un-magnetized. The D face is magnetized in either a positive or negative polarity by the optional fixed magnet <NUM>.

<FIG> shows another polarity configuration that is enabled by the configuration of <FIG>. The moving magnet <NUM> of each A-type toy member 1410A is configured to alternatingly exhibit a negative polarity through the A face, and a positive polarity through the B face. The C face remains un-magnetized. The D face is magnetized in either a positive or negative polarity by the optional fixed magnet <NUM>. The moving magnet <NUM> of each B-type toy member 1410B is configured to alternatingly exhibit a positive polarity through the A face, and a negative polarity through the C face. The B face remains un-magnetized. The D face is magnetized in either a positive or negative polarity by the optional fixed magnet <NUM>.

<FIG> shows yet another polarity configuration that is enabled by the configuration of <FIG>. The moving magnet <NUM> of each A-type toy member 1410A is configured to alternatingly exhibit a positive polarity through the A face, and a negative polarity through the B face. The C face remains un-magnetized. The D face is magnetized in either a positive or negative polarity by the optional fixed magnet <NUM>. The moving magnet <NUM> of each B-type toy member 1410B is configured to alternatingly exhibit a negative polarity through the A face, and a positive polarity through the C face. The B face remains un-magnetized. The D face is magnetized in either a positive or negative polarity by the optional fixed magnet <NUM>.

The configurations of <FIG> have at least the following features in common. First, each of the toy members <NUM> includes at least one moving magnet <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>) configured to alternatingly exhibit a polarity through at least two faces. Second, coupling faces of each A-type toy member 1410A and each B-type toy member 1410B have opposite polarities. Coupling faces include: A faces of the A-type toy members 1410A and A faces of the B-type toy member 1410B; B-faces of each A-type toy member 1410A and adjacent (e.g., flexibly connected) C faces of each B-type toy member 1410B.

The ordered combination of A-type toy members 1410A and B-type toy members 1410B shown in <FIG> enables the geometric art toy <NUM> to be selectively and stably positioned (i.e., magnetically held) in each of the configurations shown in <FIG> with just twelve moving magnets <NUM>. Restated, the ordered combinations shown enable each A-type toy member 1410A to magnetically couple with one or more B-type toy member 1410B, such that the geometric art toy <NUM> is configured to be selectively and stably positioned (i.e., magnetically held) in each of the configurations shown in <FIG>. For example, in the configuration shown in <FIG>, the B face of each A-type toy members 1410A magnetically couples with the C face of an adj acent B-type toy member 1410B to which it is flexibly connected. As another example, in the configuration shown in <FIG>, the A face of each A-type toy member 1410A magnetically couples with the A face of a B-type toy member 1410B. In some embodiments, in the configuration shown in <FIG>, the A face of some A-type toy members 1410A magnetically couples with the A face of a B-type toy member 1410B that is separated by two intermediate toy members <NUM> (one A-type and one B-type).

Representative toy members that enable the configurations of <FIG> will now be described.

Referring now to <FIG> together, a tetrahedral toy member <NUM> is configurable to achieve any of the polarity configurations of <FIG> through the selective placement of one or more moving magnets. In the representative and non-limiting embodiment shown, toy member <NUM> includes a tetrahedral outer shell <NUM> formed by a first part <NUM> and a second part <NUM> that are configured to couple together (e.g., via coupling structure <NUM>). Comparison of <FIG> and <FIG> illustrates the coupling of the first part <NUM> with the second part <NUM>. The faces of toy member <NUM> correspond to the faces shown in <FIG>, i.e., faces A, B, C, and D. In the representative embodiment, first part <NUM> provides faces A, B, and C, while second part <NUM> provides face D. The toy member <NUM> is generally hollow, i.e., the outer shell <NUM> defines an internal cavity <NUM> that contains the coupling structure <NUM> and additional features described below. In the embodiment shown, the outer shell <NUM> is formed from plastic or similar material.

The toy member <NUM> of <FIG> is representative and non-limiting. For example, in some embodiments, the outer shell <NUM> is formed of one, three, or four parts, rather than two parts, e.g., a first part <NUM> providing faces A and B, a second part <NUM> providing face C, and a third part providing face D. Likewise, each of the parts forming the outer shell <NUM> is not required to provide the specific face shown in the representative embodiment of <FIG>. For example, in some embodiments, the first part <NUM> and the second part <NUM> provide different faces of the toy member <NUM>, e.g., first part <NUM> provides faces B, C, and D, while second part <NUM> provides face A. These examples are representative, not limiting.

Referring to the exploded section view of <FIG> and also to the section view of <FIG>, the toy member <NUM> includes a cradle <NUM> disposed inside the tetrahedral outer shell <NUM>, which includes a first cradle 1570A and a second cradle 1570B. The first cradle 1570A generally runs parallel to the A face (see <FIG>) along the edge <NUM> where the A and B faces meet. Similarly, the second cradle 1570B runs along the edge <NUM> where the A and C faces meet. In some embodiments, the cradle includes only the first cradle 1570A or 1570B. The cradle <NUM> includes portions of the first part <NUM> and the second part <NUM>, as described below.

The cradle <NUM> is configured to support one or more moving magnets, such that each moving magnet can move and alternatingly exhibit magnetism through a first face and a second face of the toy member <NUM>. For example, the first cradle 1570A is configured to support a moving magnet such that it can exhibit a first polarity (e.g., a positive polarity) through both the A and B faces. Similarly, the second cradle 1570B is configured to support a moving magnet such that it can exhibit a second polarity (e.g., a negative polarity) through both the A and C faces.

The cradle <NUM> enables the moving magnet(s) to alternatingly exhibit magnetism through at least a first face and a second face by forming a confined space, cavity, compartment, or the like in which the moving magnet moves or can move (e.g., shift, slide, rotate, and/or the like), for example in response to another magnet in close proximity (e.g., a moving magnet positioned in another toy member). Therefore, the cradle <NUM> serves at least two functions. First, the cradle <NUM> retains the moving magnet near the designated faces through which it is designed to exhibit magnetism, i.e., close enough to those faces such that the moving magnet is attracted to another magnet or ferrous element positioned adjacent to either of those faces. Restated, the cradle <NUM> prevents the moving magnet from moving in an uncontrolled manner throughout the cavity <NUM>. Second, the cradle <NUM> provides sufficient room for the moving magnet to move (e.g., shift, slide, rotate, and/or the like), such that it can alternatingly exhibit one or more particular polarities through the designated faces. Restated, the cradle <NUM> is sized and shaped to allow a limited range of movement of the moving magnet.

Referring to <FIG>, the first part <NUM> will now be described. In the first part <NUM>, the cradle <NUM> includes side walls <NUM>, end walls <NUM>, and a divider <NUM> (in this embodiment, a post) that divides the cradle <NUM> into the first cradle 1570A that runs along the edge <NUM> where the A and B faces meet, and the second cradle 1570B that runs along the edge <NUM> where the A and C faces meet. The side walls <NUM> and end walls <NUM>, together with a portion of the A face and a portion of the B or C faces (for the first cradle 1570A and second cradle 1570B, respectively) form a slot or track which is sized slightly larger than a moving magnet which it is designed to contain (e.g., the moving magnet <NUM>). In some embodiments, a portion of the B or C faces has an arcuate groove or depression <NUM> configured to hold the moving magnet in a particular orientation. The divider <NUM> is useful because it enables the same toy member <NUM> to be utilized to form A-type and B-type toy members. Restated, one representative A-type toy member includes a moving magnet 1512A positioned in the first cradle 1570A (i.e., only that one moving magnet 1512A), and one representative B-type toy member includes a moving magnet 1512B (i.e., only that one moving magnet 1512B) positioned in the second cradle 1570B. In the illustrated embodiment, the cradle <NUM> is integrally formed in the first part <NUM>; however, in some embodiments the cradle <NUM> is not integrally formed. Optionally, the divider <NUM> doubles as a coupling structure for coupling the first part <NUM> with the second part <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the second part <NUM> will now be described. The second part <NUM> includes portions of the cradle <NUM> including retention members <NUM> formed as fins or protrusions extending away from the D face. When the second part <NUM> is coupled with the first part <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, the retention members <NUM> each extend toward the respective slot or track formed by the side walls <NUM> and end walls <NUM> of the first part <NUM>, in order to form a "lid" on the cradle, thus forming a cavity in which the moving magnet can move. To aid this, each retention member <NUM> has a distal edge <NUM> that is configured such that it is approximately parallel to the edges <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, of the first part <NUM>. The second part <NUM> also includes an optional seat <NUM> configured to retain an optional fixed magnet.

Thus, the retention members <NUM>, the side walls <NUM>, the end walls <NUM>, and the divider <NUM> form the cradle <NUM> having a substantially confined space configured to contain at least one moving magnet. Again, the moving magnet can be positioned in either the first cradle 1570A and/or the second cradle 1570B, depending on whether the toy member <NUM> is an A-type or B-type toy member.

<FIG> each show an adjacent A-type toy member 1610A and B-type toy member 1610B, to illustrate some advantages of the geometric art toy. Each toy member 1610A and 1610B is constructed as shown with respect to the toy member <NUM> of <FIG>. Further, each toy member 1610A and 1610B includes a single moving magnet 1612A and 1612B positioned in a respective cradle 1670A and 1670B, such that the A-type toy member 1610A is analogous to the A-type toy member 1410A of <FIG>, and the B-type toy member 1610B is analogous to the B-type toy member 1410B of <FIG>.

<FIG> shows the adjacent toy members 1610A and 1610B with their A faces adjacent to each other. One arrangement of a geometric art toy that causes this interaction is the cube configuration of <FIG>. By comparison, in <FIG>, the B face of the A-type toy member 1610A is adjacent to the C face of the B-type toy member 1610B. One arrangement of a geometric art toy that causes this interaction is the configuration of <FIG>.

Referring to <FIG>, the proximity of the toy members causes the two moving magnets 1612A and 1612B to act on each other through the A faces of the respective toy members, such that each moving magnet moves in its respective cradle 1670A and 1670B. Thus, one representative polarity outcome of this interaction is: moving magnet 1612B exhibits negative polarity through the A face, while moving magnet 1612A exhibits a positive polarity through the A face. This polarity outcome is shown in <FIG>. Consequently, the two moving magnets will attract each other, thus magnetically coupling the A faces of the two toy members together. In some embodiments, the polarities are reversed, i.e., moving magnet 1612B exhibits a positive polarity through the A face, while the moving magnet 1612A exhibits a negative polarity through the A face.

Referring now to <FIG>, the proximity of the toy members again causes the two moving magnets to act on each other, but this time through different faces. In this example, the moving magnet 1612A exhibits a positive polarity through the B face of the A-type toy member 1610A, and the moving magnet 1612A exhibits a negative polarity through the C face of the B-type toy member 1610B. In this way, the two moving magnets attract each other, causing the B face of the A-type toy member 1610A to magnetically couple with the C face of the B-type toy member 1610B.

Taken together, <FIG> demonstrate one example of how a moving magnet (e.g., moving magnet 1612A) can alternatingly exhibit a first polarity (e.g., a positive polarity) through a first face (e.g., the A face) and also a second face (e.g., the B face) of a tetrahedral toy member. Effectively, each moving magnet <NUM> simulates two fixed magnets. The cradle <NUM> of each toy member enables this advantageous functionality.

<FIG> schematically illustrate another representative embodiment of a tetrahedral toy member <NUM> having a single moving magnet <NUM> that is diametrically magnetized. As shown, the toy member <NUM> is advantageously is configured such that the moving magnet <NUM> can rotate relative to the outer shell (e.g., in response to another magnet), and alternatingly exhibit a first polarity through three faces: the A, B, and C faces. Not only does this enable greater additional functionality (e.g., a plurality of geometric art toys incorporating one or more toy members <NUM> can be magnetically assembled in additionally ways), but it also makes the geometric art toy more stable in each of its configurations (e.g., the configurations of <FIG>). These advantages contribute to greater user enjoyment.

<FIG> schematically shows a segment of a geometric art toy <NUM> having a plurality of tetrahedral toy members <NUM> which are similar to the toy member <NUM> of <FIG>. In this embodiment, each toy member <NUM> is substantially identical, i.e., there is no A-type and B-type, per se. Rather, each toy member <NUM> includes one moving magnet <NUM> (e.g., a spherical magnet) positioned near a vertex of the A, B, and C faces. In addition, each toy member <NUM> includes an optional fixed magnet <NUM>. Given its proximity to the A, B, and C faces, the moving magnet <NUM> can exhibit magnetism through each of those faces. In some embodiments, the toy member <NUM> is configured such that the moving magnet <NUM> exhibits a first polarity through the A, B, and C faces.

<FIG> demonstrates one representative polarity outcome when the toy members <NUM> are connected as shown. In the first and third toy members 1810A and 1810C, the moving magnet <NUM> alternatingly exhibits positive polarity through each of the A, B, and C faces. In the second and fourth toy member 1810B and 1810D, the moving magnet <NUM> alternatingly exhibits negative polarity through each of the A, B, and C faces. In this way, adjacent toy members are magnetically attracted to each other.

<FIG> provide one representative embodiment of a toy member <NUM> that is configured for use in a geometric art toy as shown herein. In particular, the toy member <NUM> is configured such that a moving magnet can alternatingly exhibit a first polarity through three faces. Similar to the previous embodiments, the toy member <NUM> has a tetrahedral outer shell <NUM> defined by A, B, C, and D face. A cradle <NUM> is provided inside the outer shell <NUM> adjacent to the vertex of the A, B, and C faces. The cradle <NUM> holds a spherical moving magnet <NUM> near the A, B, and C faces and permits it to rotate about its own center, e.g., in response to a nearby magnet or ferrous element. To achieve this, the cradle <NUM> has a first portion <NUM> and a complementary second portion <NUM>, the first portion <NUM> having a partially spherical shape (e.g., hemispherical) with a diameter slightly larger than the spherical moving magnet <NUM>. The cradle <NUM> holds the moving magnet <NUM>, which rotates in response to outside magnetic forces such that it alternatingly exhibits magnetism through the A, B, and C faces.

Still other embodiments of the present disclosure can be understood with reference to <FIG>. In particular, <FIG> show another type of tetrahedral toy member 2010a, while <FIG> show a magnetically complementary type of tetrahedral toy member 2010b. Toy members 2010a can be utilized with toy members 2010b to form geometric toys as described above.

Advantageously, the toy members <NUM> do not need to include any moving magnets. Rather, a single fixed magnet is positioned in each toy member <NUM> such that it exhibits a first polarity through a first face (e.g., an "A" face) and a second polarity through a second face (e.g., a "B" or "C" face). This can be achieved by utilizing an axially magnetized magnet in each toy member <NUM>, with one pole of the axially magnetized magnet being positioned adjacent the first face, and the second pole being positioned adjacent the second face. The magnet can be held in place by a "cradle" as described above, by friction fit in a bore or hole formed in the toy member, by adhesive, or by similar connection means.

Referring to <FIG>, a toy member 2010a is formed as a tetrahedron with four faces A, B, C, and D, which correspond to alike-named faces described above. An axially magnetized magnet 2012a is disposed within the toy member 2010a such that a first pole (e.g., positive pole) is disposed adjacent to the A face, and the second pole (e.g., negative pole) is disposed adjacent to the B face. In this representative embodiment, the magnet 2012a is disposed within a bore 2014a formed in the toy member 2010a. For example, the bore 2014a can be formed through at least one of the A or B faces, and the magnet 2012a can be retained therein by friction fit.

Referring to <FIG>, a toy member 2010b is formed as a tetrahedron with four faces A, B, C, and D, which correspond to the four like-named faces of toy member 2010a. An axially magnetized magnet 2012b is disposed within the toy member 2010b such that a first pole (e.g., negative pole) is disposed adjacent to the A face, and the second pole (e.g., positive pole) is disposed adjacent to the C face. In this representative embodiment, the magnet 2012b is disposed within a bore 2014b formed in the toy member 2010b. For example, the bore 2014b can be formed through at least one of the A or C faces, and the magnet 2012b can be retained therein by friction fit.

The toy member 2010b is magnetically complementary to toy member 2010a. That is, the pole of magnet 2012a disposed adjacent the A face in toy member 2010a should have the opposite polarity of the pole of the magnet 2012b disposed adjacent the A face in toy member 2010b. Further, the position of magnets <NUM> a, b should have corresponding locations on the respective A faces. Likewise, the pole of magnet 2012a disposed adjacent the B face in toy member 2010a should have the opposite polarity (and corresponding location) of the pole of the magnet 2012b disposed adjacent the C face in toy member 2010b.

When formed as described above, toy member 2010a can be considered an "A-type" toy member and toy member 2010b can be considered a magnetically complementary "B-type" toy member. Accordingly, magnetically complementary toy members 2010a and 2010b can be arranged in a repeating ABBA sequence having the A-, B-, and C- face polarities shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. Thus, toy members 2010a and 2010B can form a geometric art toy as described above. As one example, twelve toy members <NUM> can be connected in a loop, each being movably connected to two adjacent toy members <NUM>, with an ABBA sequence appearing four times total such that a geometric art toy is formed having twelve toy members <NUM> connected in the following sequence: ABBAABBAABBA. This configuration enables magnetic coupling between A- and B-type toy members. For example, this configuration enables magnetic coupling between oppositely magnetized A- faces of toy members 2010a, b (as shown in <FIG>). In addition, this configuration enables magnetic coupling between oppositely magnetized B- and C- faces of toy members 2010a, b (as shown in <FIG>).

It is understood that although a number of different embodiments of art toys and toy members have been illustrated and described herein, one or more features of any one embodiment can be combined with one or more features of one or more of the other embodiments, provided that such combination satisfies the intent of the present disclosure.

While a number of representative aspects and embodiments of an art toy and toy members have been discussed above, those skilled in the art will recognize certain modifications, permutations, additions and sub-combinations thereof.

The detailed description set forth above in connection with the appended drawings, where like numerals reference like elements, are intended as a description of various embodiments of the present disclosure and are not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is provided as an example or illustration and should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Similarly, any steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, in order to achieve the same or substantially similar result.

Generally, the embodiments disclosed herein are non-limiting, and the inventor contemplates that other embodiments may include structures and functionalities from more than one specific embodiment shown in the FIGURES and described in the specification. For example, the present disclosure includes additional embodiments having combinations of any one or more features described above with respect to the representative embodiments.

In the foregoing description, specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of representative embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments disclosed herein may be practiced without embodying all the specific details. In some instances, well-known process steps have not been described in detail in order not to obscure various aspects of the present disclosure.

The present application may include references to directions, such as "first," "second," "vertical," "horizontal," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom," etc. These references, and other similar references in the present application, are intended to help describe and understand the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit the present disclosure to these directions or locations.

Claim 1:
A geometric art toy (<NUM>) comprising:
a plurality of first toy members (1410A) formed as tetrahedrons, each first toy member (1410A) comprising a magnet (<NUM>)(); and
a plurality of second toy members (1410B) formed as tetrahedrons, each second toy member (1410B) comprising a magnet (<NUM>))(1410B);
wherein the plurality of first toy members (1410A) and the plurality of second toy members (1410B) are connected together,
wherein, in a first configuration, the magnet (<NUM>) of one first toy member (1410A) magnetically couples with the magnet (<NUM>) of one second toy member (1410B) through the first faces thereof, and
wherein, in a second configuration, the magnet (<NUM>) of the one first toy member (1410A) magnetically couples with the magnet (<NUM>) of another second toy member (1410B) through the second faces thereof,
characterized in that
the magnet (<NUM>) of each first toy member (1410A) is movably positioned in a cradle (<NUM>), wherein the magnet (<NUM>) alternatingly exhibits a first polarity through a first face and a second face of the first toy member (1410A), and
the magnet (<NUM>) of each second toy member (1410B) is movably positioned in a cradle (<NUM>), wherein the magnet (<NUM>) alternatingly exhibits a second polarity that is different from the first polarity through a first face and a second face of the second toy member (1410B).