Patent ID: 7510457

Claim:
A method for constructing a three-dimensional structure with a multi-part construction toy set having a plurality of component parts which can be joined together in a semi-permanent manner by a lateral snap-together engagement, which comprises (a) providing a flat two-dimensional construction plan illustrating a flat two-dimensional assembly of a plurality of said component parts sufficient to form a substantial portion of said three-dimensional structure, (b) said two-dimensional construction plan including a full-size illustration of said flat two-dimensional assembly, showing the component parts thereof in assembled relation, (c) initially building said flat two-dimensional assembly directly upon said flat two dimensional construction plan by connecting together the component parts illustrated on said construction plan, (d) said flat two-dimensional assembly having opposite end portions and including first and second flat two-dimensional subassemblies, each including respective first and second end portions and said assembly further including a reorientable bridging element positioned between and joining adjacent end portions of said first and second subassemblies in said flat two-dimensional assembly, (e) erecting said two-dimensional assembly to a three-dimensional form, by reorienting said bridging element with respect to the respective subassemblies to bring said subassemblies into spaced apart positions with end portions thereof in generally opposing relation, and (f) connecting said opposite end portions of said reoriented assembly to form a three-dimensional structure.