Patent Description:
Children are often captivated by toys that can be assembled. The act of creation helps a child build spatial awareness and can provide many hours of entertainment.

A variety of toys that require assembly are known in the art. However, many known toy construction pieces are rigid and non-flexible, and can often be difficult to connect and disconnect, especially for younger children.

Often, these known toys are composed of many pieces that are able to be joined together, for example, by using friction fit fasteners, glue, or magnets. Certain toys are described in <CIT>, and <CIT>, which each teach block toys with magnets embedded inside so that the blocks are easily combined by means of magnetism when placed proximately to each other. Another known toy is described in <CIT>, and involves a flexible building segment with ribs sections and embedded magnets. Document <CIT> discloses a construction unit and a method for construction of a structure comprising all the technical features set out in the preambles of claims <NUM> and <NUM>.

There is a continuing need for a construction unit that can be assembled in various ways to easily form three-dimensional shapes and structures. Desirably, the components of the construction unit are flexible and easily connected and disconnected. Most desirably, the construction units are entertaining for children and adults and usable as toys.

In concordance with the instant disclosure, a construction unit that can be assembled in various ways to easily form three-dimensional shapes and structures, and which has components that are flexible and easily connected and disconnected, and which are entertaining for children and adults and usable as toys, has been surprisingly discovered.

A construction unit is set out in independent claim <NUM>. Optional/preferred features are set out in dependent claims <NUM> to <NUM>. A method for construction of a structure is set out in independent claim <NUM>.

In one embodiment, a construction unit has a main body. The main body may be formed from at least one sheet of a flexible material. The main body has a first side and a second side. The construction unit has a plurality of magnetic connectors attached to the main body.

In another embodiment, a kit for construction of a structure may have a plurality of the construction units. The plurality of construction units may include a variety of shapes. The kit may further include an active unit and a control unit that are configured to be in electronic communication with each other. The active unit and control unit may be placed in electronic communication via a flexible link.

In a further embodiment, a method of making a structure includes a first step of providing a plurality of the construction units. The method includes a second step of connecting at least one of the magnetic connectors of a first one of the construction units with at least one of another one of the magnetic connectors of the first one of the construction units, and at least one of the magnetic connectors of a second one of the construction units. The structure is thereby formed.

In an exemplary embodiment, the construction unit is a toy. The toy may include a flexible sheet with a plurality of magnets embedded within the flexible material of the sheet. The magnets may be on the periphery of the flexible material.

The magnets of a first flexible sheet can be removably adhered to the magnets of a second flexible sheet. In other words, the connecting of the first and second sheets does not need to be permanent, and the first and second flexible sheets can instead be connected by magnets in a first arrangement, and then separate and reassembled into a second arrangement, as desired. The first and second sheets may be configured to form a three-dimensional structure.

The toy may include at least one module that is removably adhered by a magnet on the flexible sheet, or to a magnet of a three-dimensional structure formed from one or more of the flexible sheets.

In particular, the present disclosure relates to embedding magnets to papers or any other flexible sheets, in order to construct three-dimensional structures. While there may be other common ways to connect pieces of sheets together such as stapling, gluing, masking taping, etc., all these ways do not have an easy way to disconnect.

For some purposes, it is vital to have an easy way to connect and disconnect the sheets. When making three-dimensional shapes with multiple sheets there is no easy solution of connecting and then disconnecting these sheets from each other. The present disclosure seeks to provide a solution to these problems by providing magnets embedded in a flexible sheet that allow the sheet to be connected to other sheets easily and then disconnected from each other just as easily. The magnets embedded in the flexible sheet allow the sheet to be connected to itself to form a three-dimensional shape. One sheet can in fact form more than one three-dimensional shape, as desired. Moreover, a single sheet can be connected to other sheets in various ways to form three-dimensional shapes and structures.

A special device may be used to embed a magnet within a sheet, or otherwise attach the magnet to the sheet, in a way that the magnet is permanently fixed to the sheet. More than one magnet can be embedded within the same sheet. Thus, these magnets can be attracted to each other and form a three-dimensional shape out of the sheet. Also, the sheet can be connected in various ways to other sheets to form three-dimensional structures.

As a technological addition to the sheet, there are various magnet modules (e.g., electronic modules that also contain a power source such as a battery) that each function once it is magnetized to the embedded magnets on the sheet. The module may be a plastic box that contains electronic parts and has either input sensors such as proximity/light sensors, orientation sensors, sound sensors, or output components with functional capabilities such as sound, light, and/or movement. The module can be connected to the internet cloud and/or a mobile remote device, for example, through use of wireless transmissions such as Bluetooth®. The modules can also be activated from a remove device such as a smart phone such as an iPhone®, or a tablet computer such as an iPad®. Other suitable types of sensors and electronic parts may also be used, as desired. Once this module is assembled with the three-dimensional structures, it gives the three-dimensional structures an added technological feature such as movement of the three-dimensional sheet structure or a light that is glowing through the sheets, where the sheets are translucent or transparent.

It should also be appreciated that the sheets may have holes or a hole pattern (e.g., for light to come out through, or to be used as further connectors). The holes may be used in addition to or separate from the translucency or transparency of the sheets for light distribution, as desired.

The magnets may be placed on the corners of the flexible sheet. In particular, the magnets may be disc magnets. Their size will be selected depending on the kind of sheet that is being used. If a less flexible sheet is used (e.g., a thick polypropylene), then a larger magnet may be needed. If a more flexible sheet is used (e.g., a normal piece of paper), then a smaller magnet may be needed.

These magnets are embedded to the sheet in various ways the manufacturer chooses. They can be glued, laminated, contained in a plastic chamber, layered between two sheets, or any other way as long as the magnets are embedded to the sheet in a way that the magnets are irremovably secured to the sheet.

Two sheets with embedded magnets can be attracted to each other. Another option is to magnetize the sheet to itself to form a three-dimensional shape such as a cylindrical shape. Two or more sheets can be attracted to each other by magnets to form a three-dimensional structure such as a tower. By connecting a few sheets together in various ways, one can construct many different objects such as animals, robots, vehicles, and so on. An example of such a construction is a fort.

By adding a magnet module, e.g., the size of <NUM> cubic cm (or anything up to <NUM> cubic cm), as non-limiting examples, to any construction, the outcome is a dynamic magnetic flexible sheet. One example of a suitable module is disclosed in <CIT>. A skilled artisan may also select other suitable magnetic modules, as desired.

When the magnetic module is connected to a magnet and thus turns itself "on", it transforms the construction to a dynamic construction. The dynamic construction may include movement like, for example, the spinning of blades of a windmill or a spinning mobile. In alternative embodiments, the magnetic module may act as a connection point instead of a switch. The module can be connected to the internet, cloud and/or a mobile remote device, or may otherwise be networked as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

Although described primarily herein as a "toy", it should be understood that the novel structure of the present disclosure may also have other applications, including for decorations and also as functional structures, as non-limiting examples. All such other uses of the novel structure are contemplated and considered to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure.

In a particular embodiment, a toy may include a flexible sheet that is capable forming a variety of shapes and structures. The flexible sheet may be folded in such a way to create three-dimensional structures.

The flexible sheets may be removably adhered to themselves or other sheets using magnets. The flexible sheets may be made of a paper, plastic, metal, rubber, silicone, or any other material chosen by a skilled artisan. Moreover, the magnets may be neodymium iron boron (NdFeB), samarium cobalt (SmCo), alnico, ceramic, ferrite or any other type of magnet chosen by a skilled artisan. For example, the magnets may be disc magnets.

Although being generally rectangular in shape, the flexible sheets may be a variety of shapes, including but not limited to circles, squares, triangles, hexagons or any type of polygon, as desired.

The magnets are shown primarily on the outer perimeter of the sheets. However, it should be appreciated that the magnets may be placed in any suitable location or orientation on the flexible sheet by a skilled artisan.

Additionally, although the use of magnets may be preferred, it should be understood that the sheets may also be removably adhered in other ways, including snaps, buttons, latches, or any other suitable mechanism selected by one of skill in the art, and that such fasteners are also considered within the scope of the present disclosure.

A special device may also be used to embed the magnet in the flexible sheet, whereby the magnet is fixed to the sheet. More than one magnet may be affixed to the same sheet. In other examples, the flexible sheet may be formed by layering together two sheets, and thus locking magnets in between the layers forming the sheet. Consequentially, one magnet may be adhered to an opposing magnet on the same sheet, forming a three-dimensional shape. These magnets may be fixed to the sheet in various ways, including but not limited to glue, lamination, heat fixation, or any other mechanism chosen by a skilled artisan. Furthermore, multiple sheets with embedded magnets may be removably adhered to each other.

The magnets may be placed on the periphery of the flexible sheet. Additionally, the size of the magnet depends on the type of sheet material. For example, thicker sheet material may require a larger or stronger magnet, while the more flexible sheet material may require a smaller or less powerful magnet.

Two or more sheets may be magnetized to each other to form a three-dimensional structure, such as a tower. By adhering the magnets disposed in multiple sheets together in various ways, one can construct many different objects such as animals, robots, vehicles, or any other structure chosen by a skilled artisan. As an example, there is a fort composed of sheets that are removable using the magnets.

Additionally, a user may attach a module to the flexible sheets. The module has a magnet that is configured to adhere to the magnets affixed to the flexible sheet. In certain embodiments the magnet attached to the module may be <NUM> cubic cm, and up to <NUM> cubic cm.

The module may produce sound, light, or movement. For example, the module may include at least one of a speaker, an LED light, and a motor. The module may also have a power source such as a battery. The module may also include a microprocessor and a memory and be configured to execute certain programmable actions.

The module may also be attached to the sheets in a three-dimensional structure. The three-dimensional structure, along with the modules may provide movement of the three-dimensional sheet structure.

Moreover, the module may have a transceiver and be configured to communicate wirelessly with a variety of user devices, such as a personal computer or a mobile device. The module may use Bluetooth, WIFI, or another suitable form of wireless communication, as desired. Furthermore, there may be a plurality of modules that are configured work together. The plurality of modules may be attached to the sheet to form a robot, drone, or any other toy as chosen by a skilled artisan. For example, the modules may be arms, legs, and a head of a robot, wheels that are controlled wirelessly to form a remote-controlled car, or arms and legs to form a dancing doll. In a further example, a module with a rotating spinning arm is attached to the fort.

The module may also only "turn on" when adhered to another magnet. When the module is magnetized it activates, causing the module to activate an input sensor or light up, produce sound or cause movement.

Advantageously, the toy as described hereinabove can be assembled in various ways to easily form three-dimensional shapes and structures. It should be understood that the above-described toy has components in the form of the flexible sheets that are flexible and easily connected and disconnected, in operation.

The above, as well as other advantages of the present disclosure, will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, particularly when considered in the light of the drawings described hereafter.

It should also be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features. In respect of the methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, is not necessary or critical unless otherwise disclosed.

As shown in <FIG>, a construction unit <NUM> may have a main body <NUM>. The main body <NUM> may be formed from a flexible material. The main body <NUM> may have a first <NUM> side and a second side <NUM>. The construction unit <NUM> may have a plurality of magnetic connectors <NUM> attached to the main body <NUM>.

As used herein, the term "main body" is defined to include any body with a width and a length that are substantially greater than its thickness. The main body <NUM> may include one or more layers or sheets of the flexible material, as also described further herein. It should be appreciated that the main body <NUM> will permit the magnetic connectors <NUM> to be embedded therein or attached thereto, or facilitate a placement of the magnetic connectors <NUM> between two or more layers or sheets of the main body <NUM>, as also described further herein. The term "main body" shall not be construed to imply any specific shape or overall dimensions unless otherwise disclosed and is intended to include any and all possible shapes and dimensions.

The flexible material of the present disclosure is pliable but resilient, such that the flexible material will return to an original shape after being deformed or bent without significant creasing or tearing. It should be understood that in certain embodiments the flexible material may also retain its shape after being bent or deformed. The flexible material is also water resistant and does not degrade significantly with exposure to water. The flexible material may also be resistant to degradation with exposure to oils. In certain embodiments, the flexible material that forms the main body <NUM> may be selected from a group consisting of paper, synthetic paper, leather, synthetic leather, elastomer, plastic, rubber, metal, fabric, composites, and combinations thereof.

In particular embodiments, the flexible material may be a waterproof synthetic paper. For example, the flexible material may be a polyester- or polyolefin-based synthetic paper. The polyester- or polyolefin-based synthetic paper may have a thickness between about <NUM> mil and about <NUM> mil, and a weight between about <NUM> gsm and about <NUM> gsm, as non-limiting examples. The polyester- or polyolefin-based synthetic paper may also have a melting point between about <NUM>°F and about <NUM>°F, in another example. Advantageously, fabrication of the main body <NUM> from polyester- or polyolefin-based synthetic paper provides lightweight and waterproof construction units <NUM> that may be repeatedly used without undesirably tearing or creasing. Although the polyester- or polyolefin-based synthetic paper has been found to be especially suitable for the main body <NUM>, it should be understood that any other suitable material may be selected by a skilled artisan, as desired.

The main body <NUM> of the present disclosure may also have dimensions that facilitate a manual deformation or bending of the main body <NUM> in operation. In certain embodiments, the flexible material of the main body <NUM> may have a thickness between about <NUM> millimeter and about <NUM> millimeters. In a more particular embodiment, the flexible material of the main body <NUM> may have a thickness between about <NUM> millimeters and about <NUM> millimeters. In a most particular embodiment, the flexible material of the main body <NUM> may have a thickness between about <NUM> millimeters and about <NUM> millimeters. In a specific embodiment, the thickness of the main body <NUM> may be about <NUM> millimeters. One of ordinary skill in the art may also select other suitable thicknesses for the main body <NUM> within the scope of the disclosure.

As shown in <FIG>, the main body <NUM> has a central hub <NUM>. The central hub <NUM> has a plurality of arms <NUM> disposed thereon. Each of the plurality of arms <NUM> radiate outwardly from the central hub <NUM> and have a free end <NUM>. In certain embodiments, as illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the main body <NUM> may be substantially X-shaped with four of the arms <NUM> disposed on the central hub <NUM>. Although the main body <NUM> having the X-shape is shown and described herein as one particular example, it should be understood that this disclosure contemplates any other suitable shape for the main body <NUM>.

The magnetic connectors <NUM> are disposed on the main body <NUM>. The magnetic connectors <NUM> are disposed on the arms <NUM> of the main body. The magnetic connectors <NUM> are disposed adjacent the free ends <NUM> of the arms <NUM>. In certain cases, the magnetic connector <NUM> may be disposed at the central hub <NUM>. In a further example, the magnetic connectors <NUM> may be spaced apart from one another across an area of the main body <NUM>. In particular, it has been found that the magnetic connectors <NUM> should be disposed on the main body <NUM> at least about <NUM> to <NUM> apart, in order to best facilitate use of the construction units <NUM>. Other suitable locations and arrangements for the magnetic connectors <NUM> may also be employed.

As depicted in <FIG>, each of the magnetic connectors <NUM> may have a first portion <NUM>, a second portion <NUM>, and a magnet <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> may be disposed adjacent to the first side <NUM> of the main body <NUM>. The second portion <NUM> may be disposed adjacent to the second side <NUM> of the main body <NUM>. The magnet <NUM> may be disposed between the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> may thereby secure the magnet <NUM> to the main body <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the magnetic connectors <NUM> of the present disclosure may have a generally hexagonal shape. It should be appreciated that the hexagonal shape may militate against undesirable rotation of various parts that may be connected to the magnetic connectors <NUM>, in operation. The hexagonal shape may also be provided with rounded corners, which may militate against an unintended catching or cutting of the main body <NUM> where the main body <NUM> has been deformed or bent as described further herein. However, the magnetic connectors <NUM> may be any other suitable shape, including circles and squares, as non-limiting examples.

The magnetic connectors <NUM> may be fabricated from a lightweight plastic material such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), by a molding process such as injection molding, as nonlimiting examples. It should be understood, the magnetic connectors <NUM> can be formed from any other suitable material, including other thermoplastic materials such as polyethylene, for example. Any suitable processes for forming the magnetic connectors <NUM> may also be employed, as desired.

As shown in <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> of the magnetic connector <NUM> may have an exterior surface <NUM> and an interior surface <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> may have a central aperture <NUM> formed therethrough. The central aperture <NUM> may extend from the exterior surface <NUM> to the interior surface <NUM>. The central aperture <NUM> may be configured to receive the magnet <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the central aperture <NUM> may be formed in the interior surface <NUM>, but not extend all the way to the exterior surface <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>. In other words, the central aperture <NUM> may be provided in the form of a closed recess, which is open only to the interior surface <NUM> and not to the exterior surface <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the second portion <NUM> of the magnetic connector <NUM> may have an exterior surface <NUM> and an interior surface <NUM>. The second portion <NUM> may have a central aperture <NUM> formed therethrough from the exterior surface <NUM> to the interior surface <NUM>. The central aperture <NUM> may also be configured to receive the magnet <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the central aperture <NUM> may be formed in the interior surface <NUM> without passing through the second portion <NUM> to the exterior surface <NUM>. As with the first portion <NUM> of the magnetic connector <NUM>, the central aperture <NUM> may be provided in the form of a closed recess, which is open only to the interior surface <NUM> and not to the exterior surface <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the second portion <NUM> may have a ledge <NUM> formed in the interior surface <NUM> thereof. The ledge may circumscribe the central aperture <NUM>. The second portion <NUM> may have an annular ring <NUM>. The annular ring <NUM> may be formed on the exterior surface <NUM> thereof. The annular ring may circumscribe the central aperture <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> of each of the magnetic connectors <NUM> has at least one female component <NUM>. The female component <NUM> may be a hole disposed through the first portion <NUM> from exterior surface <NUM> to the interior surface <NUM>. It should also be appreciated that the female component <NUM> may only be open on the interior surface <NUM> and may be closed (not shown) on the exterior surface <NUM>. More particularly, the first portion <NUM> may have a plurality of the female components <NUM> arranged around the central aperture <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>.

In a most particular example, also illustrated in <FIG>, the female component <NUM> may include four holes that are formed through the first portion <NUM> from the exterior surface <NUM> to the interior surface <NUM>. The four holes may be substantially evenly spaced around the central aperture <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the second portion <NUM> of each of the magnetic connectors <NUM> may have at least one male component <NUM>. The male component <NUM> of the second portion <NUM> may correspond in size and shape to the female component <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>. The male component <NUM> may protrude outwardly from the interior surface <NUM> of the second portion <NUM>. The male component <NUM> may formed separately and then subsequently attached to the interior surface <NUM>, or the male component <NUM> may be coformed with the remainder of the second portion <NUM> on the interior surface <NUM>, as desired.

In a most particular example, also shown in <FIG>, the male component <NUM> may include four pegs. The pegs are formed on the interior surface <NUM> of the second portion <NUM>. The male components <NUM> may also be substantially evenly spaced around the interior surface <NUM>.

It should be understood that the male component <NUM> may be adapted to be received by the female component <NUM> upon assembly of the magnetic connector <NUM>. For example, the male component <NUM> may be friction- or press-fit into the female component <NUM> such that the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> are retained together. In other examples, the male component <NUM> and the female component <NUM> may not be press fit, but may instead serve to align the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> for additional connecting procedures, as described further herein.

Advantageously, the male and female components <NUM>, <NUM> provide a secure coupling for the first and second portion <NUM>, <NUM>, and may militate against the first and second portion <NUM>, <NUM> undesirably separating during use. It should be understood that one having skill in the art may select any suitable sizes and shapes for the female and male components <NUM>, <NUM>, and any suitable placement or configurations of the female and male components <NUM>, <NUM> on the first and second portion <NUM>, <NUM>, as desired.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the second portion <NUM> of the magnetic connector <NUM> may have at least one welding bridge <NUM>. The welding bridge <NUM> may be provided in addition to the male components <NUM> described hereinabove, and can either be formed separately and then added to the interior surface <NUM> or conformed with the remainder of the second portion <NUM>. The welding bridge <NUM> may be defined by an elongate rib having an uppermost peak portion that is configured to be welded to the interior surface <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>, for example, as shown in <FIG>. In particular, as shown in <FIG>, the at least one welding bridge <NUM> may include four of the welding bridges <NUM> spaced apart from one another and arranged around the central aperture <NUM> of the second portion <NUM>. One having skill in the art may also select any other suitable size, shape, number, and arrangement for the at least one welding bridge <NUM>, as desired.

As shown in <FIG>, the at least one welding bridge <NUM> may connect the interior surface <NUM> of the second portion <NUM> with the interior surface <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>. It should be understood that the at least one welding bridge <NUM> is disposed through the main body <NUM> to firmly secure the magnetic connector <NUM> to the main body <NUM>. In a particular example, the at least one welding bridge <NUM> may be ultrasonically welded to the interior surface <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>, in order to couple the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. It should be understood that one having skill in the art may also select any suitable means for coupling the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> within the scope of the disclosure.

Referring now to <FIG>, the main body <NUM> may have a plurality of preformed apertures <NUM> formed therethrough. At least one of the preformed apertures <NUM> may receive one of the magnetic connectors <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the preformed apertures <NUM> may be formed in the central hub <NUM>, the plurality of arms <NUM>, the free ends <NUM> of the arms <NUM>, or any combination thereof. One skilled in the art may select any suitable location for the plurality of preformed apertures <NUM>, as desired.

The sizes and shapes of the preformed apertures <NUM> may be selected based upon the structure of the magnetic connectors <NUM> with which they are intended to be used. In particular, the plurality of preformed apertures <NUM> may include a magnet aperture <NUM>, a welding bridge aperture <NUM>, and a male component aperture <NUM>. The magnet aperture <NUM> may receive the magnet <NUM>. The welding bridge aperture <NUM> may receive the welding bridge <NUM> of the second portion <NUM>. The male component aperture <NUM> may receive the male component <NUM>. Other suitable types, including different sizes and shapes of, the preformed apertures <NUM> may also be employed.

In a most particular embodiment, the welding bridge apertures <NUM> and the male component apertures <NUM> may be spaced apart from one another and generally circumscribe the magnet aperture <NUM>. The welding bridge apertures <NUM> and the male component apertures <NUM> may be arranged in an alternating fashion, and substantially evenly disposed around the magnet aperture <NUM>. Other suitable arrangements may also be used.

The means for creating the preformed apertures <NUM> may include a die cutting process, as one-non-limiting example. It should be appreciated that the creation of the preformed apertures <NUM> in the flexible material by die cutting may allow the second portion <NUM> to pass through the main body <NUM> without requiring an uncontrolled tearing or puncturing of the main body <NUM> by the male components <NUM> and the welding bridges <NUM> of the second portion <NUM> upon assembly. It should likewise be understood that the use of the preformed apertures <NUM> therefore contributes to superior longevity of the construction unit <NUM> over time, with repeated deformation and bending, due to the absence the uncontrolled tears or punctures that would otherwise be present in the main body <NUM>. Other suitable means for creating the preformed apertures <NUM> without excessive tearing of the flexible material may also be employed, as desired.

With renewed reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> has a plurality of first ratchet teeth <NUM>. The first ratchet teeth <NUM> may be disposed on the exterior surface <NUM> around the central aperture <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the first portion <NUM> may have an annular groove <NUM> formed in the exterior surface <NUM> around the central aperture <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>. The first ratchet teeth <NUM> may be disposed on the exterior surface <NUM> within the annular groove <NUM>.

In certain examples, the first ratchet teeth <NUM> each have a peak <NUM>. The peaks <NUM> of the first ratchet teeth <NUM> may be spaced apart from a plane on which the remainder of the exterior surface <NUM> is disposed. For example, the peaks <NUM> may be recessed in the annular groove <NUM> such that each of the peak <NUM> is disposed below the entirety of the exterior surface <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the second portion <NUM> also has a plurality of second ratchet teeth <NUM>. The second ratchet teeth <NUM> may be disposed on the exterior surface <NUM> and arranged as an annular ring around the aperture <NUM> of the second portion <NUM>. The second ratchet teeth <NUM> may protrude outwardly from the exterior surface of the second portion.

In operation, the first ratchet teeth <NUM> of a first one of the magnetic connectors <NUM> may be configured to cooperate with the second ratchet teeth <NUM> of a second one of the magnetic connectors <NUM>. Advantageously, the cooperation of the first ratchet teeth <NUM> and the second ratchet teeth <NUM> militate against undesirable rotation of the construction units <NUM> where connected magnetically. Further, the cooperation of the first and second ratchet teeth <NUM>, <NUM> provides a desirable tactile feel upon turning the magnetic connectors <NUM> relative to each other while connected magnetically.

It should also be appreciated that the aforementioned recessing of the peaks <NUM> of the first ratchet teeth <NUM> in the annular groove <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>, together with the outward protrusion of the second ratchet teeth <NUM> of the second portion <NUM>, may also provide for a more secure or stable connection of the first and second ones of the magnetic connectors <NUM> in operation.

As disclosed hereinabove, each of the magnetic connectors <NUM> contains the magnet <NUM>, which is adapted to cause the magnetic connection to adjacent magnetic connectors <NUM>. The magnet <NUM> has a sufficient magnetic strength or field to permit for the selective magnetic connection where the magnetic connectors <NUM> are manually disposed adjacent one another, while also permitting for a selective manual disconnection of the magnetic connectors <NUM> by a user such as a child. In particular, the magnet <NUM> may be a rare-earth type magnet or magnet alloy. As nonlimiting example, the magnet <NUM> may include a neodymium iron boron (NdFeB), samarium cobalt (SmCo), alnico, ceramic, ferrite or a combination thereof. Any other suitable type of magnet <NUM> chosen by one having skill in the art.

In certain examples, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the magnet <NUM> is immovably fixed to the main body <NUM>. The immovable fixation of the magnet <NUM> may be provided by a friction- or press-fit, for example. Adhesives may also be employed to affix the magnet <NUM> in the magnetic connector <NUM>. However, in other examples shown in <FIG>, the magnet <NUM> may also freely rotate inside the magnetic connector <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the freely rotating magnet <NUM> may allow the user to connect adjacent magnetic connectors <NUM> regardless of the location of the magnet poles, which will freely rotate to the correct orientation. The freely rotating magnet <NUM> may be loosely disposed inside of a plastic or metal housing <NUM>, for example, which is encapsulated within the magnetic connector <NUM> or the main body <NUM>. Other suitable means for affixing the magnet <NUM> to the magnetic connector <NUM> or to the main body <NUM> direction, in either an immovable or movable form, may also be employed.

As depicted in <FIG>, the magnet <NUM> has a first section <NUM> and a second section <NUM>. The first section <NUM> may have a first width (W1). The second section <NUM> may have a second width (W2). The first width (W1) is greater than the second width (W2). The first section <NUM> of the magnet <NUM> may rest on or abut the ledge <NUM> of the second portion <NUM> of the magnetic connector <NUM>. The second section <NUM> of the magnet <NUM> may be received by the central aperture <NUM> of the second portion <NUM> of the magnetic connector <NUM>.

In certain embodiments, as also shown in <FIG>, the magnet <NUM> may be spaced apart from the exterior surface <NUM> of the first portion <NUM> a distance (D1) and together with a surrounding area of the first portion <NUM> defines a recess <NUM>. In operation, the annular ring <NUM> of a first one of the magnetic connectors <NUM> may be configured to rest on the exterior surface <NUM> and be received by the recess <NUM> of a second one of the magnetic connectors <NUM>. The recess <NUM> may be contoured to friction- or press-fit with the annular ring <NUM> in certain examples. Advantageously, the cooperation of the annular ring <NUM> and the recess <NUM> of the exterior surface <NUM> may provide for a more secure or stable connection of the first and second ones of the magnetic connectors <NUM> in operation.

According to an alternative embodiment, shown in <FIG>, the main body <NUM> may include a plurality of sheets <NUM>, <NUM>. The plurality of sheets <NUM>, <NUM> may include a first sheet <NUM> and a second sheet <NUM>. The magnetic connectors <NUM> may be disposed between the first sheet <NUM> of flexible material and the second sheet <NUM> of magnetic material. One of the magnetic connectors <NUM> may connect to another of the magnetic connectors <NUM> disposed within the same main body <NUM>. The magnetic connectors <NUM> of one main body <NUM> may also connect to the magnetic connectors <NUM> disposed on a separate and different main body <NUM>. It should be understood that the construction units <NUM> may thereby be connected to themselves, or to other construction units. The other construction units may be of any size or shape. One having skill in the art may also select the size, shape, number, and arrangement for the magnetic connectors <NUM> between the first and second sheets <NUM>, <NUM>, as desired.

In another alternative embodiment, shown in <FIG>, the magnet <NUM> may be disposed in a rotating magnet housing <NUM>. The magnet <NUM> may extend outwardly past the rotating magnet housing <NUM>, so as to be connected with other magnets where presented adjacent the magnet housing <NUM>. For example, in operation, the magnet <NUM> of a first construction unit <NUM> may directly connect to the magnet <NUM> of the magnet <NUM> of another construction unit <NUM>.

The rotating magnet housing <NUM> may have a pair of axles <NUM>. Each one of the pair of axles <NUM> may be disposed on an end of the rotating magnet housing <NUM>. Each one of the pair of axles <NUM> may be rotatably coupled to the magnetic connector <NUM>, for example, by the axles <NUM> being rotatably disposed within corresponding holes formed in the magnetic connector <NUM>, such that the magnet housing <NUM> may freely spin. In this embodiment, the magnetic connector <NUM> may have a main body aperture <NUM>. The main body aperture <NUM> may receive the main body <NUM>. The fixation of the main body <NUM> to the magnetic connector <NUM> may be provided by a friction-fit, for example, or the fixation may be provided by any other suitable means including those means described hereinabove with respect to other types of the magnetic connector <NUM>. Adhesives may also be employed to affix the main body <NUM> in the magnetic connector <NUM>. Though this particular magnet <NUM> configuration is depicted on the flexible main body <NUM> of the construction unit <NUM>, it should be understood that the magnet <NUM> configuration could be used on any construction unit <NUM> or on the flexible link <NUM>, as desired.

As shown in <FIG>, a kit <NUM> for construction of a structure <NUM> may include the plurality of separate construction units <NUM>. Each of the construction units <NUM> may have the main body <NUM> formed from the flexible material. As described hereinabove, the main body <NUM> may have the first side <NUM> and the second side <NUM>. Each of the construction units <NUM> may have the at least one magnetic connector <NUM> attached to the main body <NUM>.

For example, the plurality of separate construction units <NUM> includes a first unit <NUM>. The first unit <NUM> may have the four arms <NUM> extending outwardly from the hub <NUM>. Each of the arms <NUM> may have a free end <NUM>. The plurality of magnetic connectors <NUM> may include at least four first unit magnetic connectors <NUM>. Each of the first unit magnetic connectors <NUM> may be disposed adjacent the free end <NUM> of one of the arms <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the first unit <NUM> may include a fifth magnetic connector <NUM>. The fifth magnetic connector <NUM> may be disposed in the hub <NUM>.

The plurality of separate construction units <NUM> may include a second unit <NUM>. The second unit <NUM> may have an elongate body <NUM> with free ends <NUM>. The plurality of magnetic connectors <NUM> may include at least two second unit magnetic connectors <NUM>. Each of the second unit magnetic connectors <NUM> may be disposed adjacent one of the free ends <NUM> of the elongate body <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the second unit <NUM> may include three magnetic connectors <NUM>.

The plurality of separate construction units includes a third unit <NUM>. The third unit <NUM> may have a generally ovoid body <NUM>. The ovoid body <NUM> may have a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. The plurality of magnetic connectors <NUM> may include a third unit magnetic connector <NUM>. The third unit magnetic connector <NUM> may be disposed adjacent the first end <NUM> of the generally ovoid body <NUM>.

It should be understood that the kit <NUM> contemplated by this disclosure may include any suitable shape other than those shapes depicted in <FIG>. The kit <NUM> may include, as non-limiting examples, squares, rectangles, triangles, and circles.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, the kit <NUM> may further include at least one active unit <NUM> and at least one control unit <NUM>. The active unit <NUM> may be configured to be in electronic communication with the control unit <NUM>. The active unit <NUM> and the control unit <NUM> may be each further configured to be disposed on one of the magnetic connectors <NUM> of one of the construction units <NUM>. It should be understood that the active unit <NUM> and the control unit <NUM> may be a single component or may be two separate components of the kit <NUM>.

The active unit <NUM> may include input sensors such as proximity or light sensors, orientation sensors, sound sensors or output components with functional capabilities such as at least one of sound, light, and movement. Advantageously, once the active unit <NUM> is activated, the plurality of construction units <NUM> will "come to life" with an added technological feature such as movement or a light.

The control unit <NUM> may be in electrical communication with a battery (not shown). The battery may be included in the control unit <NUM> assembly or may be provided as an independent unit. The control unit <NUM> may also have a microprocessor and a memory. In a non-limiting example, the control unit <NUM> may be formed on a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may include conductive tracks, pads and other features etched from one or more sheet layers of copper laminated onto and/or between sheet layers of a non-conductive substrate. The PCB may be single-sided (one copper layer), double-sided (two copper layers on both sides of one substrate layer), or multi-layer (outer and inner layers of copper, alternating with layers of substrate). Other suitable constructions for the PCB may also be employed within the scope of the disclosure.

The memory may be provided in the form of a tangible, non-transitory, processor readable medium that is in communication with the microprocessor. The microprocessor may be adapted to execute instructions in the form of software tangibly encoded on the memory. The control unit <NUM> may be configured to one of selectively and automatically activate the active device <NUM> in operation. The control unit <NUM> may also be configured to execute certain programmable actions, as well as permit the user to enter the programmable instructions and store the same on the memory of the control unit <NUM>. In particular, the control unit <NUM> may include a human interface such as buttons, dials, touch-screens or the like, which permit the user to interact with the control unit <NUM>, as desired.

In an additional embodiment, for example, as shown in <FIG>, the active unit <NUM> and the control unit <NUM> may be provided as a single assembly such as an electronic unit <NUM>. The electronic unit <NUM> may be one of the construction units that also includes the structure and functionality of each of the active unit <NUM> and the control unit <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>. More particularly, the electronic unit <NUM> may have the battery, the PCB with CPU, a magnetic sensor and the active unit all contained within a unitary assembly or body. In certain embodiments, the active unit and the control unit may be affixed to one of the construction units <NUM> to form the electronic unit <NUM>. The active unit and the construction unit may be affixed via a mechanical fastener or a chemical fastener, as non-limiting examples. Advantageously, the single assembly of the electronic unit <NUM> may be easier for the user to implement in the structure.

The electronic unit <NUM> may be configured to connect to the internet cloud and/or a mobile remote device, for example, through use of wireless transmissions such as Bluetooth®. The electronic unit <NUM> may be provided with a wireless transceiver, for example, for this purpose. The electronic unit <NUM> may also be activated from a remote device such as a smart phone, as a non-limiting example. Other suitable means for electronic transmissions may also be employed, as desired.

The kit <NUM> may further include at least one flexible link <NUM>, for example, as shown in <FIG>. The flexible link <NUM> may include an insulated wire that configured to place the control unit <NUM> in electrical communication with the active unit <NUM>. In one example, the flexible link <NUM> may be a flat PCB connector cable that is configured to connect to the PCB. However, the flexible link <NUM> may also be fabricated with other suitable materials and constructions within the scope of the disclosure. It should be understood that the flexible links <NUM> may transfer electricity and signals or data.

In addition to the flexible link <NUM> being configured to place the active unit <NUM> in electrical communication with the control unit <NUM>, the flexible link <NUM> may further be configured to be disposed on the magnetic connector <NUM> of the construction unit <NUM>. For example, an end portion of the flexible link <NUM> may have at least one magnetic connector <NUM> or may be formed from a material that may be magnetically attracted to the magnetic connector <NUM> of the construction unit. The flexible link <NUM> may thereby be directly connected to the active unit <NUM> or may be disposed between the active unit <NUM> and the construction unit <NUM> where the active unit is otherwise connected to the construction unit <NUM> by the magnetic connector <NUM>. Other suitable means for placing the active unit <NUM> in communication with the control unit <NUM> are contemplated and may also be employed.

It should be understood that the flexible links <NUM> may be connected in various configurations to other flexible links <NUM>, the control units <NUM>, and the construction units <NUM>, for example, as shown in <FIG>. The flexible links <NUM> may be provided with a split for example. The split may allow the flexible link to connect to a plurality of construction units <NUM>. Further, more than one flexible link <NUM> or more than one active unit <NUM> may be in electrical communication with one control unit <NUM>. Where these units are connected, it should be understood that any rotation about the magnetic connectors of any unit may not inhibit the transfer of electricity or signals or data. For example, the electricity may pass from the flexible link <NUM> to multiple magnetic connectors <NUM> that may be attached to the flexible link. Other suitable configurations may also be used, as desired.

The kit <NUM> may include a plurality of accessories, which may enhance the final structure constructed with the kit <NUM>. The accessories may be used to extend the usage and give the user more building and playing options.

A first accessory may be a bearing <NUM>, for example, as shown in <FIG>. The bearing <NUM> may include a plastic cover. More particularly, the bearing <NUM> may be disposed within the plastic cover and have an exposed portion. The bearing <NUM> may be affixed within the plastic cover or the bearing may be configured to rotate within the plastic cover, as desired. The plastic cover may be disposed on one of the magnetic connectors <NUM> of one of the construction units <NUM>. The exposed portion of the bearing <NUM> may be configured to connect to another one of the construction units <NUM>. Advantageously, the bearing <NUM> may be used for decoration or for connecting two construction units <NUM> together, which may allow one of the construction units <NUM> to spin about a top of the bearing <NUM>, for example, as shown in <FIG>.

As depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, a second accessory may be a wheel <NUM>. The wheel <NUM> may have a wheelbase and a magnetic core. The magnetic core may be disposed on a magnetic connector <NUM> of one of the construction units <NUM>. A spacer <NUM> may be utilized along with one or more of the construction units <NUM> and the wheels <NUM>, for example, as shown in <FIG>. The spacer <NUM> may be substantially U-shaped, for example, and be configured to hold the wheels <NUM> in a spaced apart configuration. The spacer <NUM> may be configured to provide a rigid base on which to attach the wheel <NUM>. Advantageously, the wheel <NUM> and the spacer <NUM> may allow the user to form moving structures, such as a car or a helicopter, as non-limiting examples. Other suitable types, shapes, and materials for the spacer <NUM> may also be employed by a skilled artisan within the scope of the present disclosure.

A third accessory may be a decorative clip <NUM>, for example, as shown in <FIG>. The decorative clip may have a metal core. The metal core may be configured to connect to one of the magnetic connectors <NUM> of one of the construction units <NUM>. The decorative clip may also be configured to hold paper or other thin element including the main body <NUM> of another one of the construction units <NUM>. Advantageously, the decorative clip <NUM> may allow the user to decorate the structure with additional non-metal or non-magnetic elements.

The present disclosure further includes a method for construction of the structure <NUM>, for example, as shown in <FIG>. The structure <NUM> may be flat or two-dimensional, or may be three-dimensional, depending on the intent of the user. Though the structure <NUM> is shown throughout <FIG> as being a simple cylinder, it should be understood that the structure <NUM> could include many different structures of various complexity. For example, the structure <NUM> may include a building, an animal statue, a robot, and a vehicle. One having skill in the art may select any other suitable structure <NUM> to be built with the construction units <NUM>, as desired.

In operation, the method may include a first step of providing a plurality of the construction units <NUM>, separately, as described hereinabove. In a second step, at least one of the magnetic connectors <NUM> of a first one of the construction units <NUM> is connected with at least one of another one of the magnetic connectors <NUM> of the first one of the construction units <NUM>, and at least one of the magnetic connectors <NUM> of a second one of the construction units <NUM>, whereby the structure is formed. In other words, the first one of the construction units <NUM> may connect to itself to form the three-dimensional structure <NUM>, or the first one of the construction units <NUM> may connect to another one of the construction units <NUM> to form the three-dimensional structure <NUM>.

It should be understood that the structure <NUM> can be formed from any number, size, or shape of construction units <NUM>. In the method, the plurality of separate construction units <NUM> may also be provided to the user in the form of the kit <NUM>.

The method may have a further step of providing at least one active unit <NUM> and at least one control unit <NUM>, described hereinabove. For example, one of the active unit <NUM> and the control unit <NUM> may be disposed on one of the construction units <NUM>. Then the active unit <NUM> and the control unit <NUM> may be placed in electrical communication to activate the active unit <NUM>. In other embodiments, the active unit <NUM> and the control unit <NUM> may be provided together as the single, unitary electronic unit <NUM>. The electronic unit <NUM> may be connected to at least one of the construction units <NUM>.

Advantageously, the construction unit <NUM>, the kit <NUM>, and the method of the present disclosure can be used in various ways as described hereinabove to easily form or assemble three-dimensional shapes and structures <NUM>. The various components of the kit <NUM> including the construction unit <NUM> are flexible and easily connected and disconnected. It has been found that the construction units <NUM> are entertaining for children and adults and usable as toys.

Claim 1:
A construction unit (<NUM>), comprising:
a main body (<NUM>) formed from a flexible material, the main body having a first side (<NUM>) and a second side (<NUM>); the main body having a plurality of free end (<NUM>) areas, each free end area having a free edge; and
a plurality of magnetic connectors (<NUM>) attached to the main body, one of the magnetic connectors being disposed in one of the free end areas of the main body, the one of the magnetic connectors being circumscribed by an entirety of the flexible material of the free end area and spaced apart from the free edge of the free end area,
wherein the one of the magnetic connectors has a total thickness, the total thickness of the one of the magnetic connectors being greater than a maximum thickness of the main body;
characterised in that
the main body has a hub (<NUM>), a plurality of arms (<NUM>) disposed on the hub, and each free end (<NUM>) area is disposed at an end of each arm opposite the hub;
the maximum thickness of the main body is between <NUM> millimeter and <NUM> millimeters; and
a minimum width across each arm (<NUM>) of the main body (<NUM>) is less than a width across the respective free end (<NUM>) area along an axis of that free end area which passes through a centre of the magnetic connector therein.