Patent Document

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    Not applicable. 
       STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT 
       [0002]    Not applicable. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    The present invention relates generally to play areas and display systems, and more specifically to individually arranged and assembled tiles, forms, and articles for interactive play and display. The components interact so that they may be scaled to various sizes for use on floors, walls, table or counter tops, or other surfaces, and they can be assembled outward as well as upward for play or display in multi-dimensional settings. When displayed horizontally or vertically, this invention provides the capacity for interchangeable display of inserts, which may include but is not limited to artwork, advertising indicia, educational material (numbers, letters, etc.), instructional information, notices, or an infinite number of other materials which can be readily and changeably viewed. 
         [0004]    A favorite play activity involves toys that incorporate play upon a surface, such as a floor, table, counter, or other surface. Play may include toy vehicles that can be moved along roadways, runways, railways, waterways, or other travel paths, or may be parked inside or outside of play structures to simulate real-world environments. Surfaces for this type of play include rugs, mats, play boards, and tiles that interlock to create relatively flat or one-dimensional elements of a track or landscape. They often involve invariable patterns and are scaled for specific sized accessories, and therefore do not support use with multiple toys. Also, these play structures generally do not provide a way to adhere three-dimensional elements that can removeably affix to the play surface to prevent them from slipping or moving about the surface. 
         [0005]    Toys utilizing play surfaces with connecting or connectable pieces have been described. Various car and truck, train or other transportation-based layouts are present in the prior art. Additionally, mats comprising variously patterned and ornamented connecting parts have been described. The present invention improves on and is distinguished from the prior art foremost in that it has easily interchangeable components, allowing for an unlimited number of colors, textures, shapes, and articles which can be incorporated into the system. The play or display environment, or surfacescape, is created by the user by combining the various components of the invention. It offers the user the unlimited opportunity to build upward and outward from a surface, making the surfacescape truly multi-dimensional. A discussion of the related art of which the inventor is aware, and some of the differences and distinctions from the present invention are provided. 
       DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART 
       [0006]    This invention is unique in that it offers the user a single set of elements that can be used for both play and display. It can be made and used with an infinite number of changeable scenes or display backgrounds, including but not limited to roadways, runways, watercourses, or other interconnectable travelways that wind to or through changeable background scenery, landscapes and structures. It may connect to form simple travelways or whole cityscapes, and can hold and incorporate inserts that are printed, ornamented or treated with new and changeable images, textures or text, selected by the user. 
         [0007]    Unlike existing floor mats and tiles in the prior art that contain pre-cut or pre-printed alphabetic, numeric or shapes that are fabricated on or extend through the surface of mats or tiles, this invention allows the user to change, replace, expand, and repurpose components, and therefore mature with the system. 
         [0008]    Several examples of toy car tracks or roadways exist in the prior art. Seitzinger, et al., describes a toy car racetrack that allows connection and continuation through the component parts of the trackways at the midpoint of each side, forming a racing circuit. This invention is specific to roadway and terrain elements, with slot and embedded conductors aligned to form a closed circuit. In contrast, the present invention is capable of forming open and changeable travelways, and may connect to form not just a track, but a complete and changeable landscape. Similarly, Rubio teaches a kit for assembling a closed-loop toy simulation of a roadway comprising at least four curved road segments and at least two straight road segments, each road segment having at least one marking on such surface that simulates roadway lane markings. This invention is also restricted to a roadway, and does not offer changing landscape upon which the user can play or display a variety of different play environments; it has variously shaped components which do not all independently connect, as does the present invention. It is assembled in an end-to end configuration, whereas the present invention meets and connects with other interchangeable tiles on all sides. The present invention is designed not to be closed-looped, but rather openly configured to allow continuous and non-continuous extensions of roads, waterways and travelways through and to various landscapes and structures in multiple directions and dimensions. 
         [0009]    Mats or tiles used with racetracks and roadways have also been disclosed. Allen teaches a toy race track providing a mat for simulating a stock car racing track. As previously described, the present invention provides more than a race track; it offers an endless variety of cooperating scenes upon which play can be accomplished. The interconnecting tiles support a limitless variety of insertable accessories which complement travelways or other scenery and play environments, and are capable of building upon many levels moving upward and outward from the surface. Arsenault also teaches tiles used as a toy roadway, each tile having a roadway pattern and capable of interlocking with adjacent tiles. This invention requires the integration of body parts, spacers, tab plates, and rivets to form the roadway. It also includes raised land areas elevated above the roadway. The present invention is different in that it utilizes scalable, interchangeable tile pieces to form the basic elements of the travelways which include roads, waterways, runways, train tracks and other types of pathways, not just roadways, and background areas that are consistently sized to allow for play or display upon a substantially flat surface if the user desires, so that the user can sit, stand, and otherwise play comfortably upon the surface. If the user chooses, he or she can incorporate three-dimensional elements, including dimensionalizing tiles capable of interacting between proximate tiles, of varying textures and shapes around which play can occur. These dimensionalizing tiles interact ornamentally as well as structurally. The present invention additionally allows attachment of upper levels to the raised elements, so that users can build perpendicular to the surface, creating multi-level buildings, ramps to upper roadways, underpasses, and other multi-dimensional structures. And, the interchangeable tiles can be configured in an unlimited number of ways to provide continuously changeable artwork, background and scenery, or elements to display. 
         [0010]    Various examples of tiles used for building structures in play settings also exist, but can be distinguished structurally and functionally from the present invention. Xanthopoulos describes a toy building tile unit adapted to provide a building panel in which edge margins of the panel are offset on both top and bottom of the tile; one of the offset edge margins serves as a carrying means for interlocking with another tile. This invention is for creating buildings; individual components do not stand alone and it does not include a surface on which to play. The present invention includes building or structure components as an interchangeable accessory of the invention, along with other possible collapsible accessories that are removeably attached to the surface to facilitate play or presentation upon the surface or display. Smail describes a construction toy that comprises interlockable tiles assembled to form patterns. The present invention offers simpler ways to connect tiles, allowing the pieces to be easily and independently interchangeable. The variously shaped pieces required to assemble the Smail toy make putting it together more complex than the present invention, which utilizes tiles that are generally a consistent or scalable size and shape. Also, the present invention offers multiple ways of attaching or connecting the variously configured tiles in the set—base mats, extensions or recessions, or frame connectors, or combinations of these connecting methods can be used. 
         [0011]    Pads or mats for play have also been described. Glydon describes an interlockable foam pad with multiple layers of varying density that interlocks to form three-dimensional structures or a foam pad exercise mat. It includes sections adapted to interlock together with slight hand pressure to the adjacent foam pad. An embodiment of the present invention consists of foam tiles of uniform density. In addition to forming a surface cover, it functions as an interactive play or display surface utilizing differently ornamented and shaped pieces or accessories. The basic pad, or mat, formed by the foam tiles in one configuration of the present invention includes apertures or recesses into which said pieces or accessories can be placed, removed and replaced by other pieces or accessories to provide stimulating and changeable play or display environments. Anderson teaches play mats having a surface for play with various scenes, and includes a plurality of puzzle pieces with uniform puzzle edges that can be assembled in many orientations, and a plurality of border pieces. One of the ways the present invention can be distinguished is that instead of border pieces, tiles of the mat may contain a built-in frame into which various inserts can be added, including textured, writeable, alphabetical or alphanumeric elements, advertising indicia, or other components. They can be resurfaced by the user. Additionally, the present invention allows the user to insert and create multi-dimensional forms and structures contained within or directly upon the tile surface. 
         [0012]    Toy building systems involving mats and accessories used with these mats have also been described. Evans, et al., describes a structure building system that utilizes a mat, a set of pillars and a set of structural members to build a structure. This invention is distinct from the present invention in that it does not include changeable scenery around which the structures can be incorporated. Although “landscape mats” are described, their function and form are completely different from the interchangeable surface environment disclosed herein. Also, Whitehead relates to a play mat and articles placed thereon. The play mat includes at least a portion, more typically a layer, of a magnetic or magnetically attractive material such as a metalized compound. Disadvantages associated with metal or magnetic connections include danger of swallowing for very young children, the need to embed or attach magnets to all pieces, and increased cost. The present invention utilizes connection methods and accessories that do not require magnets to connect; it is safer without magnets and can be produced and sold at a lower cost. Articles can be inserted directly into apertures or punch-outs in the mat; this makes them sturdy yet easy to move and manipulate without the need for magnetic coupling. Thrush, et al., describes a toy floor mat system. The floor mat has removable play pieces within tiles that can be connected to form play figures or three-dimensional structures. It does not accommodate insertion of different changeable pieces with various artwork, textures or surface indicia. It is also specific to floor use, and the various inserts are shapes cut out from the mat itself. It does not contemplate use as a display. 
         [0013]    Generally, the prior art contemplates the use of artwork, shapes or travelways that are either unique to one system of mats or tiles, or contain travelways preprinted on mats with ornamentation that cannot be varied. The use of tessellating, interchangeable tiles containing surface ornamented or routed channel travelways including roadways, railways, runways, waterways, pathways, etc. arranged, aligned, and combined with non-travelway ornamented tiles and their ability to interact to create a continuous surface area which can be multi-directional and multi-dimensional is unique to this invention. Different travelways contained within the same system allows for the use of different types of vehicles to be played with along the same system. 
         [0014]    With the invention disclosed herein, the user can select, combine, and create multiple travelway systems with tiles and create their own layout incorporating non-travelway ornamentation tiles. Travelways do not have to take on a closed loop configuration, but can terminate within the same tile or extend to other tiles ornamented with travelways. For example, “paved” roadways can be coupled with “dirt” roadways or tiles without travelways leading to tiles ornamented with parking lot lines, “paved” surfaces such as driveways, landscapes, structures including garages, hangars, roundhouses, tunnels, and the like of this invention. 
         [0015]    Furthermore, the dimensionalizing tiles with travelways and dimensionalizing forms of this invention allow the user to connect travelways upward and outward from the first surface to create multiple levels of travelways such as raised highways and structures. Additionally, narrower travelways can connect with larger travelways and vice versa through the design or scaling of the tiles. Also, the combination of component parts allow the user to create structures (i.e. dollhouses, buildings, and shapes) or a flat surface with various tile configurations and ornamentation for learning or display, which makes the system truly multi-functional. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0016]    It is desirable to have a changeable play or display surface that is assembled in any configuration preferred by the user, made by easily connecting complimentary components to form multi-functional, multi-directional and multi-dimensional surfacescapes. The preferred embodiment comprises a soft and relatively flexible, yet sturdy material, without sharp or hard edges so that even very young children can play safely with or upon it. Scalable, interchangeable tessellating tiles can be assembled and built upon using collapsible connecting elements and inserts that attach various levels with an endless variety of surface materials and designs. Framed areas and channels in the tiles provide space to add visual, adhesive or structural elements, and punch-outs and juts create a means for inserting perpendicular components to allow for extending play or display beyond a flat surface. By providing scenery and accessories such as ramps and structural pieces that are selected and added by the user, the invention can be used to build upwards as well as outwards. It encourages stimulation and learning by presenting a spectrum of textures, colors, dimensions, and elements controlled and individually selected and directly applied to the surface by the user. Accessories and articles can be added, collected, changed, and can mature with the user. It is further desirable to provide a surface assembled by the user through which a user can travel, or move through to different play or learning environments. 
         [0017]    As a play surface, the present invention offers a way to provide colors, texture, artwork or elements such as numbers and letters for the player to touch, place, and interchangeably manipulate and build with. It can be used with a mat base, where tiles and elements are connected upon the mat, or the tiles can be joined to each other directly using extensions and recessions in the tiles, or frames that enclose raised portions on the tiles themselves, or combinations of these means for connection. As the tiles are connected, a surface is constructed upon which one can play, walk on or through, stand or ride upon. It can also be constructed on a table or countertop for use at eye level. 
         [0018]    In addition to serving as a play surface, this invention offers the added benefit of functioning as a display. Besides being placed and built upon a horizontal surface, it can be hung vertically. It serves as an easily visible and interchangeable horizontal or vertical teaching environment. It can provide changing directions, instruction, or visually stimulating material that can extend dimensionally. Some examples of use can be, but are not limited to, presentations, multi-dimensional scaled architectural rendering, artwork or wall covering as decoration, for advertising or displaying notices. It may include writeable surfaces such as paper, card, white or chalk board, attachable surfaces such as Velcro or Colorform, or commercially identifying indicia such as ads, logos, etc. Furthermore, this invention contemplates various versions in different scales, so that it can be made as a travel kit, a floor or table surface, or on a larger scale for whole room size to include play or display in homes, offices, schools, museums, outside areas, or other large spaces. 
         [0019]    The multi-functionality of this system has the added benefit to the environment and the users of creating less waste. The underlying tiles can be repurposed and transformed from a play to a display area with the changing of insert tiles and not the complete system. Users won&#39;t have to throw out single function play or display pieces. 
         [0020]    The various tiles described in the claims include configurations in multiple and proportional sizes, and those with areas including continuous top and bottom surfaces (continuous); tiles recessed from the top surface downward or the bottom surface upward (closed frame); those open from top surface to bottom surface (open frame); surfaced interior (insert); tiles which are recessed around a raised portion (panel); combinations of the aforementioned, and other configurations consistent with the specification and claims presented. 
         [0021]    Tiles can be further varied with routed channels that accept track, road or other travelway pieces (routed). For example, Lionel or HO gauge train track or Hot Wheels or other toy vehicle sets could be used within and upon the invention. By placing track within the routed channels, the track can be securely held in place. In a preferred embodiment, EVA foam tiles with routed channels exhibit a slight spring when pressed and released, which holds the track in place with just enough pressure to keep it steady; when the foam is depressed or pressed away, the track can easily be removed. 
         [0022]    The tiles described are incorporated into a set or system utilizing connecting and building components. They may be joined together by one or more separate connection means, which can be used separately or together to add strength to the connections as well as flexibility for the user to create individual surfacescape designs. Connection of proximate tiles can be accomplished by extensions and recessions which are part of the tiles themselves; placing the tiles upon mats which hold tiles in place; or frame connectors which incorporate raised areas on the tiles and frames which fit around the raised areas and hold together tiles placed adjacent to one another. 
         [0023]    Building components that enable multi-dimensional assembly, construction and play include but are not limited to insert tiles, ramps, walls and pillars with protrusions, or juts that can be positioned into and held within punch-outs or recessed areas on tiles throughout the surfacescape. Punch-outs and corresponding juts are spaced based on the dimensions of the smallest tile in the set. These building components, as well as accessory articles used to enhance the play or display experience, can either be pre-formed or may be assembled from a flat posture for packaging and storage, and are either positioned or folded together and inserted into frames or punch-outs or recessed areas as desired by the user. When inserted, tiles proximately positioned or folded accessory articles occupy and are held within punch-outs. 
         [0024]    A variety of materials are contemplated for the components of this invention, including: foam (including ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) or a variety of environmentally friendly foam (EFF) foams); rubber or rubber like materials (including thermoplastic elastomer (TPE)); cardboard (chipboard); wood (including 5 ply birch); acrylic; and may also comprise a variety of eco-friendly products made from recycled materials. 
         [0025]    The ornamentation of tiles, mats, forms, and other components of the invention can be achieved by printing directly upon the component surface or on a suitable substrate which can be applied to the component by means of adhesive bonding or suitable lamination process (including thermal lamination, flame lamination, or pressure sensitive lamination). If lamination is used, bonding of the substrates can form bi- or tri-laminates. Furthermore, surface modification of tiles can alter the material surface by pattern, size of pattern, spacing between patterns, locations of each pattern, and depth of cut(s). 
         [0026]    The terms single material depth and multiple material depth refer to the tile or insert component relative depth. Since the invention is designed to be both scalable and proportionate at different sizes, this refers to the depth dimension of the given component. For example, an insert tile that sits in a closed frame tile configuration would separately be a single material depth, because the underlying component—the frame tile underneath the recess or aperture—would also be a single material depth. Therefore, when combined, the insert and the frame tile constitute a multiple material depth, and would render the surface of the tile plus insert continuous; they would then also be continuous when releasably coupled with proximate tiles. Multiple material depth simply means a plurality of the single material depth. 
         [0027]    The present invention utilizes scalable and proportional individual tiles that are joined to connect, extend, and infinitely expand the play and display surface in all directions. Variously configured tiles accept components of many textures, colors or surface qualities that can be interchanged after the surface is assembled. 
       REFERENCE NUMERALS USED IN THE DRAWINGS 
       [0000]    
       
         
           
               1 . Continuous tile 
               3 . Extension 
               5 . Recession 
               10 . First surface 
               15 . Second surface 
               20 . Punch-out 
               23 . Routed tile 
               25 . Routed channel 
               30 . Insert tile 
               32 . Multi-dimensional insert tile 
               33 . Sloping tile 
               34 . Panel tile 
               35 . Jut 
               40 . Press aperture 
               50 . Frame tile 
               53 . Support form 
               55 . Long wall support form 
               60 . Short wall support form 
               65 . Support wall tabs 
               70 . Door opening in support form with brick as an example of ornamentation 
               75 . Solid wall support form with ornamentation 
               80 . Window openings in support form with brick ornamentation 
               85 . Pillar 
               90 . Angled pillar 
               95 . Connector jut 
               97 . Jut port 
               100 . Routed pillar groove 
               105 . Corner panel 
               110 . Frame connector 
               115 . “V”-cut 
               125 . Mirror-image of article prior to folding 
               130 . Article 
               135 . Raised panel mat 
               140 . Raised frame mat 
           
         
       
     
     
    
     
       FIGURES OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0062]    These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, claims and accompanying drawings where: 
           [0063]      FIG. 1A  shows a perspective view of the continuous tile with extensions and recessions as connection means, and punch-outs for dimensionalizing components, articles or additional connection means. 
           [0064]      FIG. 1B  shows a perspective view of the continuous tile with extensions and recessions as connection means, and juts for dimensionalizing components, articles or additional connection means. 
           [0065]      FIG. 2A  shows a perspective view of the routed tile, which has been routed to include a channel for placing track or other travelway. 
           [0066]      FIG. 2B  shows a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the routed tile channel on a tile with extensions and recessions and punch-outs. 
           [0067]      FIGS. 2C-2M  show alternate possible ornamentation to provide travelways and allow continuity between proximate tiles of the set: 
           [0068]      FIG. 2C  shows an intersection. 
           [0069]      FIG. 2D  shows a single lane road. 
           [0070]      FIG. 2E  shows a divided lane road. 
           [0071]      FIG. 2F  shows a runway. 
           [0072]      FIG. 2G  shows railroad tracks. 
           [0073]      FIG. 2H  shows a waterway. 
           [0074]      FIG. 2J  shows a multiple-lane road. 
           [0075]      FIG. 2K  shows a multiple divided lanes road. 
           [0076]      FIG. 2L  shows a walkway. 
           [0077]      FIG. 2M  shows a parking area. 
           [0078]      FIG. 3A  shows perspective views of several variations of insert tiles and the closed frame tile into which the insert tile is positioned. 
           [0079]      FIG. 3B  shows a multi-dimensional insert tile within a frame tile. 
           [0080]      FIG. 3C  illustrates a sloping tile configured as a staircase, positioned within a frame tile and supported by an angled pillar. 
           [0081]      FIG. 4A  shows a perspective view of a panel tile with juts and also the closed configuration frame tile into which the panel tile may be positioned. 
           [0082]      FIG. 4B  shows an open configuration frame tile, which could be a single or multiple material depth to accommodate insert tiles of various depths. 
           [0083]      FIG. 5A  is a perspective view of a continuous tile without extensions or recessions (smooth sides) and with routed corner panels. 
           [0084]      FIG. 5B  illustrates a panel tile with multiple raised areas and corner panels, and the multiple and proportional nature of the tiles. 
           [0085]      FIG. 5C  shows an embodiment of a closed frame tile with routed corner panels which cooperate with frame connectors. 
           [0086]      FIG. 5D  shows adjacent closed frame tiles connected by enclosing the corner panels with a frame connector. 
           [0087]      FIG. 6A  shows a perspective view of a support form configured as a long wall. 
           [0088]      FIG. 6B  shows a perspective view of a support form configured as a short wall. 
           [0089]      FIG. 6C  shows a perspective view of support forms assembled to make a basic building structure. 
           [0090]      FIG. 7A  shows a support form configured as a wall with brick ornamentation that includes a door opening. 
           [0091]      FIG. 7B  shows a support form configured as a solid wall with brick ornamentation. 
           [0092]      FIG. 7C  shows a support form configured as a wall with brick ornamentation that includes window openings. 
           [0093]      FIG. 8  shows support forms described in  FIGS. 6 and 7 ; they are shown from above the tile surface being moved into position within the punch-outs. 
           [0094]      FIG. 9A  shows an article configured as a stop sign in its flat or unfolded posture. 
           [0095]      FIG. 9B  shows the article of  FIG. 9A  folded for insertion. 
           [0096]      FIG. 9C  shows an article configured as a flag or travelway sign in its flat or unfolded posture. 
           [0097]      FIG. 9D  shows the article of  FIG. 9C  folded for insertion. 
           [0098]      FIG. 9E  shows a connector jut from a removeably blocked punch-out. 
           [0099]      FIG. 9F  shows the articles of  FIGS. 9A and 9C  positioned within punch-outs of a tile. 
           [0100]      FIG. 10A  shows a perspective view of a pillar and illustrates the pillar jut port. 
           [0101]      FIG. 10B  shows a perspective view of a pillar with jut ports at opposite ends, and a connector jut inserted in a jut port, and vertical routing. 
           [0102]      FIG. 10C  shows a perspective view of a pillar and illustrates the pillar jut with a jut port at its opposite end, drawn as dotted lines, with both horizontal and vertical routing. 
           [0103]      FIG. 10D  shows a pillar configured to include juts or jut ports in different surfaces. 
           [0104]      FIG. 10E  shows two pillars being connected, with an angled pillar including both horizontal and vertical grooves; it also illustrates the pillar jut on the angled surface and the jut port within illustrated as dotted lines. 
           [0105]      FIG. 11A  shows a vertically routed pillar accepting an article configured as a road sign. 
           [0106]      FIG. 11B  shows a mailbox article for insertion into a pillar groove. 
           [0107]      FIG. 12  shows dimensionalizing pillars with vertical routing connected by a wall element. 
           [0108]      FIG. 13A  shows a dimensionalizing form configured as a pillar, illustrating the flat posture prior to folding. 
           [0109]      FIG. 13B  shows a dimensionalizing form folded into a pillar. 
           [0110]      FIG. 13C  shows a form with “V”-cuts defining a flat pillar prior to folding, with protrusions that form a jut. 
           [0111]      FIG. 13D  shows a folded pillar with a jut and a jut port at its opposite end. 
           [0112]      FIG. 14A  shows a raised panel mat with a frame tile above for attachment on the mat. 
           [0113]      FIG. 14B  shows a raised frame mat with a tile above for insertion in the mat. 
           [0114]      FIG. 15  shows continuous tiles of different scales tessellating, and the positions of the punch-outs. 
           [0115]      FIG. 16  depicts the tessellating nature of tiles of the set; continuous tiles are shown. 
           [0116]      FIG. 17  shows the surfacescape used vertically as a display. 
           [0117]      FIG. 18  shows the surfacescape used for play. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0118]    The invention described herein contemplates a set or system of individual component tiles that can transform a surface from a single dimensional area to a multi-dimensional, multi-directional surfacescape through the use of other tiles, support elements, and insertable articles embodying three-dimensional objects commonly encountered in landscapes, cityscapes and typical daily life. When used together, they compliment, support and stabilize each other. Component pieces of the set or system can be packaged and stored flat, then assembled and incorporated for multi-dimensional use as part of interactive play or display. 
         [0119]    The tiles and insert components described are of varying multiple and proportional sizes, so that different scaled sizes will always interchangeably interact. For example, as shown in  FIG. 15 , two separate 3″×3″ continuous tiles  1  would have one set of extensions  3  and recessions  5  on each side that would interact with one 6″×6″ tile with two sets of extensions  3  and recessions  5  on each side. Similarly, two 6″×6″ tiles with two sets of extensions  3  and recessions  5  on each side (or four 3″×3″ tiles) would interact with one 12″×12″ tile with four sets of extensions  3  and recessions  5  on each side. In this way, small travel sized components can be packaged for portability, and also be combined with larger components to enhance variety and utility of the invention in different play or display settings. Different types of tiles may be used interchangeably; the various tile types and scales reciprocally connect. 
         [0120]    The interconnecting tiles can be aligned and connected by multiple means. They may include punch-outs  20  that allow for removal of a small area of the tile, which becomes a connector jut  95 , to accommodate perpendicular or three dimensional elements, such as, but not limited to, juts  35  of other tiles, connector juts  95 , long wall support forms  55 , short wall support forms  60 , or articles  130 . The jut  35  portions of pillars  85 , articles  130  or independent connector juts  95  created from the material removed from punch-outs fit within and occupy a punch-out  20  area or jut port  97 . The connector juts  95  can also be made in various lengths and occupy a single or multiple material depth, or a portion therein, and may extend through and beyond the punch-out  20  depth. The punch-out  20  area may also accommodate the wall tabs  65  of support forms  53  configured as long wall support forms  55  and short wall support forms  60 ; each right angle triangular wall tab  65  occupies one half of the square punch-out  20  area, so that two walls with right triangular wall tabs  65  can meet and join, thereby occupying the entire punch-out  20  area. One skilled in the art would recognize that juts  35 , connector juts  95 , support form  53  wall tabs  65  and punch-outs  20  in other shapes or geometric configurations would achieve the same function, as long as they fit within, compliment proximate components, and occupy the punch-out  20  area. In addition to the punch-outs  20  that run through the tiles, each tile may be configured with one or more punch-outs  20  that extend partially through the tile on one surface to allow for tiles to be mounted on a wall and hung as a display or wall surface covering, while leaving the opposing surface continuous. In another means for connecting tiles, extensions  3  and recessions  5  can be used to align and connect proximately positioned tiles. Also, corner panels  105  that are either raised or routed from the tiles can be connected using a frame connector  110 . Still a further means for connection of the component parts of the set or system incorporates panel tiles  34 , raised panel mats  135 , frame tiles  50 , or raised frame mats  140  which secure and support the various elements of play or display and provide a mounting means. 
         [0121]      FIG. 1  show two perspective views of different embodiments of a continuous tile  1 . In  FIG. 1A , the dotted lines represent punch-outs  20 , which are cut from tiles and may be removed or reinserted by the user as connector juts  95  to accommodate three-dimensional elements, building components, pillars  85 , articles  130 , connecting or mounting parts or other complimentary and conforming inserts.  FIG. 1B  shows the continuous tile  1  configured with juts  35  instead of punch-outs  20 , which fit conformingly within the punch-outs  20  of other tiles, jut ports  97 , or within connector elements or articles  130 . Punch-outs  20 , jut ports  97 , connector juts  95  and juts  35  provide a means for surface to surface building as well as adding dimensionalizing elements or articles  130  to tiles. 
         [0122]      FIG. 1  also illustrate extensions  3  and recessions  5 . Tiles of various configurations as further described herein may be placed next to each other along a surface. When tiles with extensions  3  and recessions  5  are used, they are aligned so that the extensions  3  of one tile can be inserted into the recessions  5  of the next tile; in this way, tiles can be releasably joined together to form a continuous tessellating surface. Tiles of different but proportional overall sizes as shown in  FIG. 15  have the same size recessions  5  and extensions  3  and distances between them so that they may be interchanged between differently sized sets. All tiles may be surface ornamented or textured on one or both surfaces or sides; the ornamentation is capable of continuing between tiles and dimensionalizing elements. Another method for connecting tiles proximately positioned is to build upon a raised panel mat  135  or a raised frame mat  140  base, as shown and described in  FIG. 14 . Tiles may also be connected by using proportionately smaller frame tiles  50 , or frame connectors  110 , which fit conformingly over juts  35  or corner panels  105  on the perimeter of tiles adjacently positioned, as described in  FIG. 5 . 
         [0123]      FIG. 2  show routed tiles  23  and surface ornamentation of travelways incorporating continuous and non-continuous lines and shapes in different possible embodiments. In the depicted embodiment of  FIG. 2A , the routed channel  25  is used to hold and stabilize railroad tracks, one of many uses for the routed channel  25 . Other uses include but are not limited to containing vehicles, objects, inserts, or ornamentation. Surface ornamentation of the travelways, as shown in  FIG. 2C through 2M , can be included in the routed channel  125  or configured on a continuous surface to include watercourses, roadway or other travelway track beds, gardens or greenways, pathways, etc. Routing is formed by routing a channel or peripheral area in a continuous tile  1 .  FIG. 2A ,  FIG. 2B , and  FIGS. 2C through 2M  show a sample of possible variations of the routing shape, travelway ornamentation, and function.  FIGS. 2C through 2M  also illustrate that alternate possible ornamentation provides for continuity between proximate tiles of the set. One skilled in the art would recognize that there are multiple possible shapes and lines for routing a channel and surface ornamentation which could provide straight, curved or angled “turns” to create one or more lanes or travelways contained within a tile or continuing to other tiles on one or more sides or surfaces. Routed channel  25  areas and travelway lines and shapes would be sized to accept vehicles of various sizes or standard toy track or travelway commercially available in local or regional markets. The tiles depicted in  FIG. 2A  and  FIG. 2B  also include extensions  3  and recessions  5 , although the side surfaces could be smooth and connection could be achieved by other means such as the use of panel tiles  34 , raised panel mats  135 , frame tiles  50 , raised frame mats  140 , or frame connectors  110 . 
         [0124]      FIG. 3  show a closed configuration frame tile  50  with insert tiles  30  variously configured and ornamented. The frame component comprises a first surface  10  and a recessed area into which insert tiles  30  are placed, in contact with the frame tile  50  on one or more sides or surfaces. Flat insert tiles  30  can be reversible, with different surfaces or ornamentation on different sides. Insert tiles  30  may be of varying material depth, dimensionalizing, or capable of traversing levels of play or display. In  FIG. 3A , three variations of insert tiles are presented above the frame tile  50  into which they may be inserted. In  FIG. 3B , a multi-dimensional insert tile  32  which connects two levels and includes extensions  3  and recessions  5  on its upper edge is shown; this is one method of connecting tiles in various levels of play and display. In addition to insert tiles  30  of many textures, colors or surface qualities, frame tiles  50  with recessed inner portions accept other components that can be interchanged after the surface is assembled, some of which are capable of attaching and extending to other levels, as shown by the sloping tile  33  configured as stairs in  FIG. 3C . The sloping tile  33  has angled sides or edges that conform to and rest on the frame tile  50 . The frame tile  50  frame component around a sloping tile  33 , multi-dimensional insert tile  32 , insert tile  30 , and the complementing insert tile  30  itself may be of many shapes, including but not limited to square, round, triangular or irregularly shaped. Square insert tiles  30  are illustrated. Additionally, the closed configuration frame tile  50 , or frame tile  50  with a surface extending at least part way through the tile, may include punch-outs  20 , or a hole, or press aperture  40  in the bottom surface that allows the user to push upon the insert tile  30  to remove it from the frame tile  50 . 
         [0125]      FIG. 4  depict frame tiles  50  with punch-outs  20  capable of accepting panel tiles  34  with juts  35 . In  FIG. 4A , the panel tile  34  shown can be inserted into the frame and the juts  35  on the panel tile  34  can be inserted into the punch-outs  20  on the frame tile  50  to align, secure and maintain it thereon. In this way, tiles of various configurations can be stacked and the surfacescape can be built outwards or upwards. Frame tiles  50  and panel tiles  34  can contain multiple frames or panels that compliment or matingly conform to each other. Juts  35  on the frame periphery allow for alignment and stability of attachment between tiles. As with all tiles in the invention, they may or may not contain juts  35 , punch-outs  20 , extensions  3  and recessions  5 , or combinations thereof, and the surfaces of the tiles can be ornamented, laminated, treated, or textured to accommodate a range of aesthetic or functional preferences. Also in  FIG. 4 , recessions  5  and extensions  3  are shown. The recessions  5  and extensions  3  are provided in one possible configuration; they could be in other complimentary or matingly conforming configurations capable of interlocking. As drawn, extensions  3  and recessions  5  are configured to include a first long straight side, a second side forming a 90 degree angle with the first straight side, and a third angled side returning back toward said first straight side to provide enhanced interlocking capacity between proximate tiles. When coupled, the tiles are continuous across the surface and form right angles at corners. This preferred embodiment is an improvement over existing interlocking tile configurations as many have alignment challenges; too many insert recesses and protrusions make it difficult to place or align tiles together. The present invention requires fewer recesses and protrusions and is easier to join, as it utilizes a straight side which optimizes ease of connection while allowing support of weight when the system is used by hanging on a vertical surface, as a display. It also facilitates multiple connection means which enhance and stabilize the connections between tiles. Tiles connected in this way are also an advantage over prior art in that corners of tiles will always line up. 
         [0126]    In  FIG. 4B , an open configuration frame tile  50  is shown, wherein the frame is open from the first surface  10  through the second surface  15 . This figure is drawn with extensions  3 , recessions  5  and punch-outs  20 . Frame tiles  50  and the other tiles in the set can also be configured with smooth sides, corner panels  105 , juts  35 , or any combination thereof. They can also vary in material depth. 
         [0127]      FIG. 5A  illustrates a continuous tile  1  with smooth sides and corner panels  105  created by routing a channel into the surface, that would be connected to adjacent tiles with a frame connector  110 , which accepts and holds together two or more corner panels  105  from adjacent tiles. The corner panels  105  from each tile occupy a portion of the frame connector  110 , which is a relatively smaller version of an open configuration, smooth sided frame tile  50 . When placed over and around the corner panels  105  or juts  35  of more than one tile, it can hold together and stabilize them. 
         [0128]      FIG. 5B  illustrates a smooth-sided panel tile  34  with multiple raised areas and corner panels  105 . It also shows the multiple and proportional nature of the tiles. When these tiles are placed adjacently, either free standing or on a mat, the corners and sides meet, bringing together corner panels  105  which may be connected by frame connectors  110 . 
         [0129]      FIG. 5C  shows the corner panel  105  and frame means of connecting tiles with a routed panel capable of creating a punch-out  20  when connected with other tiles by the frame connector  110 . As illustrated in  FIG. 5D , when the frame connector  110  is placed over the raised panels on the periphery of the tile, it is occupied by the corner panels  105  of the tiles being connected. If the corner panels are routed into an “L” shape, as the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5C , the frame connector  110  completes an aperture area that now can serve as a punch-out  20  which is a partial material depth, accepting juts  35 , connector juts  95  or other connecting elements. Removeably blocked punch-outs  20  can also be included on these tiles to create a full material depth punch-out  20  area. 
         [0130]      FIG. 5D  shows adjacent frame tiles  50  connected by enclosing the corner panels  105  with the frame connector  110 . This may be used in addition to other connecting means. As depicted, the frame connector  110  encloses the routed corner panels  105  of adjacently positioned tiles, connecting them and creating punch-out  20  areas. Adjacent tiles are shown as cutaways, and could be any type of tile in the set as long as proximate tiles are configured similarly and conformingly with regard to their connection means. 
         [0131]      FIGS. 6 through 13  refer to the dimensionalizing forms including pillars  85  and support forms  53  or other elements used to extend the invention upward if used on a horizontal surface, and outward if used on a vertical surface to enable multi-dimensionality of the system. Dimensionalizing tiles are multi-dimensional insert tiles  32  or sloping tiles  33  with the capacity to interlock on subsequent levels. 
         [0132]    In  FIG. 6 , one type of support form is drawn, shaped with extended side components, or wall tabs  65 , that fit conformingly within punch-outs  20 , and complement the shape of a proximate support form within the same punch-out  20  to fill it, mutually stabilizing the support forms upon a mat or tile.  FIG. 6A  shows a long wall support form  55  which can be combined with a short wall support form  60  shown in  FIG. 6B . When multiple support forms are placed next to each other in perpendicular or parallel fashion, buildings, rooms, tunnels, and other separated and defined spaces can be created. The external sides (those opposite the punch-outs), with the extended side components or wall tabs  65  previously described, can fit in the punch-outs  20  on the underside of the next level of play or display, aligning, securing and stabilizing it thereon.  FIG. 6C  shows a basic building shaped by combining two longer with two shorter support forms, with the extended sides or wall tabs  65  revealed ready to accept and support the various levels of play or display. One skilled in the art would recognize that extended side components could be made of different shapes as long as they fit conformingly within punch-outs  20  matching their shape and complimentarily to adjacent support forms. 
         [0133]      FIG. 7  illustrate support forms  53  with brick ornamentation, as one of many possible decorative surfaces that could be incorporated.  FIGS. 7A ,  7 B and  7 C show drive-through, solid and windowed configurations, respectively; one skilled in the art could recognize that many different openings, patterns of ornamentation, or combinations of these would fall within the contemplation of the disclosure presented. Door openings  70 , window openings  80 , solid wall  75  and other opening or ornamental embodiments are contemplated herein. These figures further show the extended side components, or wall tabs  65 ; in this embodiment they are triangular, although other shapes could be used as long as they are shaped to fit conformingly into punch-outs and complimentary to proximate components. 
         [0134]    In  FIG. 8 , the support forms  53  described in  FIGS. 6 and 7  are presented; they are shown from above the tile surface with wall tabs  65  being moved into position within the punch-outs  20 . Each support form wall tab  65  in this embodiment occupies a portion of the punch-out  20  that is or may be complimented by positioning another support form next to it, to completely occupy the punch-out  20  area. 
         [0135]      FIG. 9  shows articles  130  and connector juts  95  for a surfacescape, which may include complimentary elements common to landscapes or cityscapes, including landscape and travelway (roadway, railway, runway, waterway, and pathway) elements capable of being independently ornamented, textured, laminated, surfaced, conditioned or printed with indicia, formed in a variety of shapes, dimensions, and depths, including but not limited to telephone poles, street signs, stop lights, street lights, fire hydrants, trees, shrubs, fences, billboards, bridges, ramps, mailboxes, columns or supports for bridges and upper roadways, gas pumps, flags, flag poles, people, animals, or other objects or figures, which are further capable of insertion into or accepting tiles or pillars  85 . Articles  130  are supplied and capable of packaging or storage flat, in a mirror-image  125  configuration. A relief cut, made by cutting to, but not through, a first surface  10  enables folding along a line of symmetry, and when folded are capable of filling a punch-out  20 .  FIG. 9A  shows a stop sign article  130  in the flat, mirror-image  125  configuration, and  FIG. 9B  illustrates the same article  130  folded and ready for placement within a punch-out  20 .  FIGS. 9C and 9D  similarly show an alternate embodiment of an article  130 , as a flag or travelway sign.  FIG. 9E  shows a connector jut  95 .  FIG. 9F  depicts the articles of  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B  inserted into punch-outs  20  in a tile ornamented with checkerboard squares, in a tile embodiment including extensions  3  and recessions  5  and punch-outs  20 . 
         [0136]    Another way the system is connected and supported between levels for multi-dimensionalization employs cooperating dimensionalizing forms including pillars  85 , which may be placed within and supported by the punch-outs  20  and thereby connect spatially upper and lower levels, and can additionally hold other elements that further stabilize and support the system.  FIG. 10  depict pillars  85  that are routed vertically relative to the juts  35 , horizontally, or in both directions to accept insertable elements. Pillars  85  can have juts  35 , jut ports  97  or both, rendering them capable of insertion into punch-outs  20  or of accepting juts  35  or connector juts  95  which align, stabilize and support them.  FIG. 10A  shows a pillar  85  with vertical routing and a jut port  97 , and  FIG. 10B  shows a vertically routed pillar  85  with both an inserted connector jut  95  and a jut port  97 , with a connector jut  95  protruding centrally above the body of the pillar  85  and a jut port  97 , shown as the dotted line extending internally from an opposite surface.  FIG. 10C  provides a view of a pillar  85  with a jut  35  protruding centrally above the body of the pillar  85  and a jut port  97 . This figure further illustrates that a pillar  85  can be made in various lengths or with a horizontally routed pillar groove  100  in addition to the vertical routing, rendering them capable of accepting or receiving support elements along those planes.  FIG. 10D  shows a pillar  85  configured to include juts  35  or jut ports  97  in different surfaces.  FIG. 10E  is an angled pillar  90 , which is capable of supporting sloping or other dimensionalizing components, and includes juts  35 , jut ports  97 , and horizontal as well as vertical routing. Pillars  85  and angled pillars  90  with none, one, or multiple juts  35  or jut ports  97  are contemplated. 
         [0137]    In  FIG. 11 , vertically routed pillars  85  are shown accepting articles  130  with juts  35  or connector juts  95 .  FIG. 11A  shows a roadway sign article  130 , while  FIG. 11B  depicts a mailbox article  130 . These removeably attachable articles  130  can be inserted into routed pillar grooves  100  or jut ports  97 , or can be configured with jut ports  97  that can accept connector juts  95  that also fit into routed pillar groves  100  or jut ports  97 , or can be configured with jut ports  97  instead that can attach directly to juts  35  on support or other set complimentary elements on any side or surface. Juts  35 , connector juts  95 , and jut ports  97 , and punch-outs  20  can be made in any conforming, mating shape. 
         [0138]      FIG. 12  shows cooperating, dimensionalizing pillars  85  with vertical routing connected by a wall element. The pillars  85  are connected by and anchored with the wall element, providing the capacity to support levels above them. Jut ports  97  are shown which can accept and stabilize juts  35 , connector juts  95 , articles  130 , punch-outs  20  or other elements of the set in order to build upwards or outwards from the surface. 
         [0139]      FIG. 13  depict the flat to folding nature of the support forms  53 , and also illustrate the method of assembling a dimensionalizing pillar  85 . A pillar  85  is shown as one example of dimensionalizing elements, which are initially flat, and created with a series of “V” cuts  115  or relief cuts. A relief cut goes from a first surface to, but not through, a second surface, which is maintained and serves as a folding or bending point. “V”-cuts are angled to allow for a filled central area, as shown in  FIG. 13A . When folded, as in  FIG. 13B , the pillar  85  takes a shape that is capable of insertion into punch-outs  20  or accepting juts  35  or connector juts  95 . If the cut surfaces are leveled, the folded pillar will form a cavity capable of serving as a punch-out  20  or jut port  97 . If folded differently the form is capable of becoming stairs. If the cut surfaces are pointed, and the flat configuration also includes a pointed protrusion at one or both ends, the pillar  85  will be solid, and one or more juts  35  will be created upon folding.  FIG. 13C  shows one end shaped to be capable of forming a jut  35  and one capable of becoming a jut port  97  upon folding.  FIG. 13D  depicts a folded pillar  85  with the jut  35  protruding from one end and a jut port  97  on the other end. Once folded together, the elements are capable of use as perpendicular supports for connecting and supporting multiple levels of play and display. 
         [0140]      FIG. 14A  and  FIG. 14B  show two separate embodiments of the mat. It is flexible and can roll or fold for portability or storage. In  FIG. 14A , the raised panel mat  135  is depicted. This image includes a frame tile  50  above the raised panel mat  135 , which fits over and encloses one or more panels when it is placed on the mat. Open or closed frame tile  50  configurations can be accepted and stabilized by the panels on the mat. Alternatively, a raised frame mat  140  can be used, as shown in  FIG. 14B . In this embodiment, a tile is shown above the raised frame mat  140 . When placed within the raised frame of this type of mat, the tile is held and supported therein. This mat configuration can also be used in the same way as frame tiles  50  work, with sloping insert tiles  32  or other dimensionalizing elements as shown in  FIG. 3C  to stabilize and support those elements. 
         [0141]    In  FIG. 15 , the scalable and proportional feature of the invention is shown. Continuous tiles  1  of two different, but proportional sizes are presented. These multiple, proportional tiles cooperate interchangeably to connect, allow rotation, interact and lock on all sides. Relatively small tiles can connect with relatively large tiles as their extensions  3  and recessions  5  are the same size and location on each tile so that the smallest tile will remain relative to and useful with the largest one. Although  FIG. 15  shows the connection means as extensions  3  and recessions  5 , the tiles could also be connected by corner panels  105  and frame connectors  110  or by placing upon the complimentary connecting elements of the raised panel mat  135 , raised frame mat  140 , or by utilizing a combination of these connection means. 
         [0142]      FIG. 15  also shows the positions of the punch-outs  20 . Punch-outs  20  are positioned on the periphery of the smallest tile, in its corners. Tiles in the set or system can expand in size proportionally, but will always be scaled sizes of the smallest tile. Punch-outs  20  will be placed at regular intervals corresponding to those of the corners of the smallest tile. In this way, multiple punch-outs  20  will be positioned proximately to each tile&#39;s corner when that tile is connected with others. Where tiles meet, or where the corners come together, punch-outs  20  will line up to place multiple punch-outs  20  near each other, so that they are equidistant from each other and those on proximate tiles when they are coupled. Instead of or in addition to punch-outs  20 , juts  35  can be incorporated at these relative locations. 
         [0143]      FIG. 16  depicts the tessellating nature of tiles of the set. In this embodiment, continuous tiles  1  are shown, connected by extensions  3  and recessions  5 . All tile types, and all scalable sizes, can be connected to expand multi-directionally and multi-dimensionally. 
         [0144]      FIG. 17  shows the surfacescape used as a display, positioned vertically on a surface. As a display, the surfacescape can be horizontal or vertical. Continuous tiles  1 , frame tiles  50 , insert tiles  30 , and a support form  53  are shown. The insert tiles  30  are placed within a frame tile  50  and are also shown with surface ornamentation. These tiles are connected through the use of extensions  3  and recessions  5 . 
         [0145]      FIG. 18  illustrates the surfacescape used for play on a horizontal surface, and shows the multi-directional and multi-dimensional capabilities and function of the various tiles as they interact to create multiple levels of play.

Technology Category: a