U.S. patent application number 17/676524 was filed with the patent office on 2022-08-25 for connected block play system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Radio Flyer Inc.. Invention is credited to Garrett DeBry, Matthew Young.
Application Number | 20220265063 17/676524 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-08-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220265063 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
DeBry; Garrett ; et
al. |
August 25, 2022 |
CONNECTED BLOCK PLAY SYSTEM
Abstract
A connected block play system made up of a series of block
members, a backer and a flap. The block members include a first-end
block member, a second-end block member and a plurality of block
members therebetween. Each of the series of block members have
substantially the same shape and are positioned adjacent one
another in a row in an open orientation. The backer extends from
the first-end block member to the second-end block member, and the
bottom wall of each block member in the series is connected to the
backer. The flap extends from the first-end block member and
assists in connecting the second-end block member to the first-end
block member.
Inventors: |
DeBry; Garrett; (Chicago,
IL) ; Young; Matthew; (Chicago, IL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Radio Flyer Inc. |
Chicago |
IL |
US |
|
|
Appl. No.: |
17/676524 |
Filed: |
February 21, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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63152382 |
Feb 23, 2021 |
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International
Class: |
A47D 13/06 20060101
A47D013/06; A63H 33/00 20060101 A63H033/00; A63H 33/06 20060101
A63H033/06 |
Claims
1. A connected block play system, comprising: a series of foam
members comprising a first-end foam member, a second-end foam
member and a plurality of foam members therebetween, each of the
series of foam members having substantially the same shape
comprising a bottom wall, a top wall opposing the bottom wall,
opposing side walls joining the bottom wall and the top wall, and
opposing end walls, the series of foam members positioned adjacent
one another in a row in an open orientation; a first receiver
connected to the first-end foam member and extending distal a first
of the opposing side walls of the first-end foam member; a second
receiver connected to the second-end foam member and extending
distal a second of the side walls of the second-end foam member,
the second receiver engaging the first receiver to secure the
first-end foam member adjacent the second-end foam member in a
closed orientation; and, a backer extending from the first-end foam
member to the second-end foam member, the bottom wall of each foam
member in the series of foam members being connected to the backer
to pivotally secure each of the blocks together.
2. The connected block play system of claim 1, further comprising a
flap extending from the first-end foam member.
3. The connected block play system of claim 2, wherein the first
receiver is part of the flap extending from the first-end foam
member, and thus the first receiver is connected to the first-end
foam member via the flap.
4. The connected block play system of claim 2, wherein the flap
assists in connecting the second-end foam member to the first-end
foam member.
5. The connected block play system of claim 1, wherein the foam
members are generally symmetrical about a center line thereof.
6. The connected block play system of claim 1, wherein a width of
the bottom wall of the foam members is greater than a width of the
top wall of the foam members.
7. The connected block play system of claim 2, wherein each foam
member has a length defined by a distance between the end walls,
and wherein the length of the foam members is generally the same as
a length of the flap.
8. The connected block play system of claim 1, wherein the bottom
wall of the foam members is arcuate.
9. The connected block play system of claim 1, wherein the top wall
of the foam members is arcuate.
10. The connected block play system of claim 1, wherein the top
wall of the foam members has a first width adjacent a front end
wall, and a second width adjacent a rear end wall, and wherein the
first width is less than the second width.
11. A connected block play system, comprising: a series of foam
members comprising a first-end foam member, a second-end foam
member and a plurality of foam members therebetween, each of the
series of foam members having substantially the same shape
comprising a bottom wall, a top wall opposing the bottom wall,
opposing side walls joining the bottom wall and the top wall, and
opposing end walls, the series of foam members positioned adjacent
one another in a row in an open orientation; one or more connection
members pivotally joining adjacent foam members; a first receiver
connected to the first-end foam member and extending beyond a first
of the opposing side walls of the first-end foam member; and, a
second receiver connected to the second-end foam member and
extending beyond a second of the opposing side walls of the
second-end foam member, the second receiver engaging the first
receiver to secure the first-end foam member to the second-end foam
member in a closed orientation.
12. The connected block play system of claim 11, wherein the one or
more connection members comprise a backer extending from the
first-end foam member to the second-end foam member, the bottom
wall of each foam member in the series of foam members being
connected to the backer.
13. The connected block play system of claim 11, wherein the
connection member comprises a sleeve.
14. The connected block play system of claim 13, wherein the sleeve
has a plurality of side walls, a back wall and an opening leading
to a cavity of the sleeve.
15. The connected block play system of claim 11, wherein each of
the series of foam members have a trapezoidal cross-sectional
shape.
16. The connected block play system of claim 11, wherein each of
the series of foam members have an elongated half-cylinder
shape.
17. The connected block play system of claim 11, wherein the series
of foam members are also pivotable about a centerline of each foam
member, such that each foam member can be folded in half.
18. A connected block play system, comprising: a series of block
members comprising a first-end block member, a second-end block
member and a plurality of block members therebetween, each of the
series of block members having substantially the same shape
comprising a bottom wall, a top wall opposing the bottom wall,
opposing side walls joining the bottom wall and the top wall, and
opposing end walls, the series of block members positioned adjacent
one another in a row in an open orientation; a backer extending
from the first-end block member to the second-end block member, the
bottom wall of each block member in the series of block members
being connected to the backer; and, a flap extending from the
first-end block member, the flap assisting in connecting the
second-end block member to the first-end block member.
19. The connected block play system of claim 18, further comprising
a first receiver operably connected to the first-end block member
and extending distal a first of the opposing side walls of the
first-end block member, and a second receiver operably connected to
the second-end block member and extending distal a second of the
side walls of the second-end block member, the second receiver
engaging the first receiver to secure the first-end block member
adjacent the second-end block member in a closed orientation.
20. The connected block play system of claim 19, wherein the first
receiver is part of the flap extending from the first-end block
member, and thus the first receiver is connected to the first-end
block member via the flap.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 63/152,382 filed Feb. 23, 2021, which is
expressly incorporated herein by reference and made a part
hereof.
FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0003] The present subject matter relates to a play system, and
more particularly, to a play system incorporating a series of
connected blocks.
BACKGROUND
[0004] Children's block play systems are known in the art. While
such block play systems according to the prior art provide a number
of advantages, they nevertheless have certain limitations. The
present disclosure seeks to overcome certain of those limitations
and other drawbacks of the prior art, and to provide new features
not heretofore available. A full discussion of the features and
advantages of the present disclosure is deferred to the following
detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the
accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY
[0005] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, the
disclosed subject technology relates to a connected block play
system.
[0006] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, comprising: a series of foam members comprising
a first-end foam member, a second-end foam member and a plurality
of foam members therebetween, each of the series of foam members
having substantially the same shape comprising a bottom wall, a top
wall opposing the bottom wall, opposing side walls joining the
bottom wall and the top wall, and opposing end walls, the series of
foam members positioned adjacent one another in a row in an open
orientation; a first receiver connected to the first-end foam
member and extending distal a first of the opposing side walls of
the first-end foam member; a second receiver connected to the
second-end foam member and extending distal a second of the side
walls of the second-end foam member, the second receiver engaging
the first receiver to secure the first-end foam member adjacent the
second-end foam member in a closed orientation; and, a backer
extending from the first-end foam member to the second-end foam
member, the bottom wall of each foam member in the series of foam
members being connected to the backer.
[0007] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, comprising: a series of foam members comprising
a first-end foam member, a second-end foam member and a plurality
of foam members therebetween, each of the series of foam members
having substantially the same shape comprising a bottom wall, a top
wall opposing the bottom wall, opposing side walls joining the
bottom wall and the top wall, and opposing end walls, the series of
foam members positioned adjacent one another in a row in an open
orientation; one or more connection members pivotally joining
adjacent foam members; a first receiver connected to the first-end
foam member and extending beyond a first of the opposing side walls
of the first-end foam member; and, a second receiver connected to
the second-end foam member and extending beyond a second of the
opposing side walls of the second-end foam member, the second
receiver engaging the first receiver to secure the first-end foam
member to the second-end foam member in a closed orientation.
[0008] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, comprising: a series of block members comprising
a first-end block member, a second-end block member and a plurality
of block members therebetween, each of the series of block members
having substantially the same shape comprising a bottom wall, a top
wall opposing the bottom wall, opposing side walls joining the
bottom wall and the top wall, and opposing end walls, the series of
block members positioned adjacent one another in a row in an open
orientation; a backer extending from the first-end block member to
the second-end block member, the bottom wall of each block member
in the series of block members being connected to the backer; and,
a flap extending from the first-end block member, the flap
assisting in connecting the second-end block member to the
first-end block member.
[0009] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system having a flap extending from the first-end foam
member.
[0010] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the flap assists in connecting the
second-end foam member to the first-end foam member.
[0011] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the first receiver is part of the flap
extending from the first-end foam member, and thus the first
receiver is connected to the first-end foam member via the
flap.
[0012] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the foam members are generally
symmetrical about a center line thereof.
[0013] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein a width of the bottom wall of the foam
members is greater than a width of the top wall of the foam
members.
[0014] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein each foam member has a length defined by
a distance between the end walls, and wherein the length of the
foam members is generally the same as a length of the flap.
[0015] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the bottom wall of the foam members is
arcuate.
[0016] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the top wall of the foam members is
arcuate.
[0017] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the top wall of the foam members has a
first width adjacent a front end wall, and a second width adjacent
a rear end wall, and wherein the first width is less than the
second width.
[0018] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the one or more connection members
comprise a backer extending from the first-end foam member to the
second-end foam member, the bottom wall of each foam member in the
series of foam members being connected to the backer.
[0019] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the connection member comprises a
sleeve.
[0020] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the sleeve has a plurality of side
walls, a back wall and an opening leading to a cavity of the
sleeve.
[0021] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein each of the series of foam members have
a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape.
[0022] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein each of the series of foam members have
an elongated half-cylinder shape.
[0023] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the series of foam members are also
pivotable about a centerline of each foam member, such that each
foam member can be folded in half.
[0024] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, further comprising a first receiver operably
connected to the first-end block member and extending distal a
first of the opposing side walls of the first-end block member, and
a second receiver operably connected to the second-end block member
and extending distal a second of the side walls of the second-end
block member, the second receiver engaging the first receiver to
secure the first-end block member adjacent the second-end block
member in a closed orientation.
[0025] The disclosed technology further relates to a connected
block play system, wherein the second receiver is part of the flap
extending from the second-end block member, and thus the second
receiver is connected to the second-end block member via the
flap.
[0026] It is understood that other embodiments and configurations
of the subject technology will become readily apparent to those
skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein
various configurations of the subject technology are shown and
described by way of illustration. As will be realized, the subject
technology is capable of other and different configurations and its
several details are capable of modification in various other
respects, all without departing from the scope of the subject
technology. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are
to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as
restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] To understand the present disclosure, it will now be
described by way of example, with reference to the accompanying
drawings in which embodiments of the disclosures are illustrated
and, together with the descriptions below are incorporated in and
constitute a part of this specification, and serve to explain the
principles of the disclosure. In the drawings:
[0028] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a connected block play
system according to the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the connected block
play system of FIG. 1 folded in half.
[0030] FIG. 3 is front perspective view of the connected block play
system of FIG. 1 in a climb and slide orientation.
[0031] FIGS. 4A-4L are a series of twelve different use
orientations for the connected block play system of FIG. 1.
[0032] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of another connected
block play system according to the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of the connected block
play system of FIG. 5 folded in half and in an arched climber
orientation.
[0034] FIGS. 7A-7O are a series of fifteen different use
orientations for the connected block play system of FIG. 5.
[0035] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of another connected
block play system according to the present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the connected block
play system of FIG. 8 in a dome orientation.
[0037] FIGS. 10A-10I are a series of nine different use
orientations for the connected block play system of FIG. 8.
[0038] FIG. 11A-11I are a series of nine different use orientations
for the connected block play system of FIG. 8 in use.
[0039] FIG. 12 is a front top perspective view of multiple
different connected block play systems used in combination
according to the present disclosure.
[0040] FIG. 13 is a front top perspective view of multiple
connected block play systems used in combination according to the
present disclosure.
[0041] In one or more implementations, not all of the depicted
components in each figure may be required, and one or more
implementations may include additional components not shown in a
figure. Variations in the arrangement and type of the components
may be made without departing from the scope of the subject
disclosure. Additional components, different components, or fewer
components may be utilized within the scope of the subject
disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0042] While this disclosure is susceptible of embodiments in many
different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be
described in detail preferred embodiments with the understanding
that the present disclosure is to be considered as an
exemplification of the principles of the disclosure and is not
intended to limit the broad aspect of the disclosure to the
embodiments illustrated. It should be noted that the features
illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and
features of one embodiment may be employed with other embodiments
as one of ordinary skill in the relevant art would recognize, even
if not explicitly stated herein. Further, descriptions of
well-known components and processing techniques may be omitted so
as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments of the present
disclosure. The examples used herein are intended merely to
facilitate an understanding of ways in which the present disclosure
may be practiced and to further enable those of ordinary skill in
the art to practice the embodiments of the present disclosure.
Accordingly, the examples and embodiments herein should not be
construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure, which is
defined solely by the appended claims and applicable law.
[0043] Generally, this disclosure describes several embodiments of
connected block play systems that are arrangeable in a variety of
different orientations, both alone and in combination.
[0044] Referring now to the figures, and initially to FIGS. 1-4,
there is shown an embodiment of a connected block play system 100.
The connected block play system 100 generally comprises a plurality
of blocks 102 that are connected and pivotable with respect to
adjacent blocks 102. In one embodiment the blocks 102 comprise foam
members 102. Further, in one embodiment the plurality of blocks 102
comprises a first-end block 114, a second-end block 116 and a
plurality of blocks 102 therebetween to form a series of adjacent
blocks 102. The blocks 102 in the series of blocks 102 generally
have substantially the same shape. FIG. 1 displays the series of
blocks 102 positioned adjacent one another in a row in an open
orientation.
[0045] A variety of blocks with different geometries are disclosed
herein, but it is understood that the possibility of different
geometries for the blocks is not limited to those shown herein, and
countless other geometries fall within the scope of this
disclosure.
[0046] In one embodiment, one or more connection members 104 are
used to pivotally connect adjacent blocks 102 at a side of each of
the blocks 102. In an alternate embodiment, the blocks 102 are
positioned in sleeves 106, and adjacent sleeves 106 are pivotally
connected to one another, such as with a connection member 104,
such as a living hinge 104. The sleeves 106 may have side walls and
a back wall with an opening leading to a cavity to insert the block
102, the sleeve 106 may have both ends open and just comprise side
walls, or the sleeve 106 may entirely enclose the block 102 with
side walls and front and rear walls. The side walls of adjacent
sleeves 106 may be pivotally connected as shown in FIGS. 1-3. In a
further embodiment, alternate connection members 104 such as a
backer 105, hinges, slide hinges, male and female pivoting
receivers, etc. may be used to pivotally connect adjacent blocks
102. Additionally, in alternate embodiments the connection members
104 and backers 105 may be able to disconnect and reconnect so that
any number of blocks 102 can be connected in series together. And,
different shape blocks 102 may be connected together in any
combination with such connection members 104.
[0047] The connected block play system 100 may also have a flap 108
to connect opposing end blocks 102, for example, as shown in FIG.
3. In one embodiment, a first end 110 of the flap 108 may be
secured to a side wall of a first-end block 114 of the series of
blocks 102. The second end 112 of the flap 108 may also be and/or
have a first receiver 117. Thus, the first receiver 117 is on or
part of the flap 108 extending from the first-end block 114. For
example, in various embodiment, the first receiver 117 may be a
Velcro portion, a strap or a clip on the flap 108. Additional
embodiments may be easily provided. The second-end block 116 on the
opposing end of the series of blocks 102 may have a second receiver
118, at a sidewall thereof to secure the first receiver 117 of the
second end 112 of the flap 108 thereto. The second receiver 118 can
be a clip, Velcro member, D-ring, etc. In one embodiment, the first
receiver 117 is connected to the second-end block 116 via the flap
108. Thus, the flap 108 assists in connecting the second-end block
116 to the first-end block 114. The flap 108 has a width defined by
the distance between the first end 110 and the second end 112 of
the flap 108. In one embodiment, each block 102 has a length
defined by a distance between end walls. Further, in one
embodiment, the length of the blocks 102 is generally the same as
the length of the flap 108.
[0048] In one embodiment, the blocks 102 are elongated members that
have a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape as shown in FIGS. 1-4. In
one embodiment of the trapezoidal shaped blocks 102, the
cross-section may include a flat bottom wall 120, two opposing side
walls 122, in this embodiment the sidewalls are angled, and a top
wall 124 opposing the bottom wall 120, which in this embodiment is
a curved or convex top wall 124, also referred to as arcuate. The
blocks 102 may be elongated about their side walls 122, and are
preferably pivotally connected to adjacent blocks 102 about their
side walls 122 or about the connection member 104 adjacent the side
walls 122, or via the backer 105. The blocks 102 also have a first
end wall 126 and a second end wall 128. In one embodiment the
blocks 102 are generally symmetrical about a center line thereof.
In one embodiment, the backer 105 extends from the first-end block
114 to the second-end block 116. The bottom wall 120 of each block
102 in the series of blocks 102 is connected to the backer 105 to
pivotally secure the blocks 102 together.
[0049] The connected block play system 100 of the embodiment of
FIGS. 1-4 may be configured in a plurality of orientations. For
example, in FIGS. 1, and 4B, the connected block play system 100
may be laid flat such that the top wall 124 of each block 102 is
placed on the floor, in a "wobbly bridge" configuration. In FIGS.
3, and 4D, the blocks 102 are orientated with the top wall 124 up
and the side walls 122 adjacent each other, and then the flap 108
extending from the first-end block 114 is connected to the opposing
second-end block 116 via Velcro straps and Velcro receivers 118.
The flap 108 is placed on the floor and with the blocks 102 in an
arch above the flap 108. The length of the flap 108 is shorter than
the length of the connected blocks 102 and results in a taught
"bridge and slide" being created. Referring to FIG. 4, additional
orientations include a "balance bridge" in FIG. 4A, whereby the
flat bottom wall 120 of each adjacent blocks 102 is placed on the
floor for a child to walk on. FIG. 4C illustrates a "tall stones"
orientation where a first portion of the series of blocks 102 may
be placed with the bottom wall 120 on the floor and a second
portion of the series of blocks 102 may be placed with the top wall
124 of those blocks 102 on the top wall 124 of the blocks 102 that
are on the floor. FIG. 4E illustrates a "lounger" orientation where
the two end blocks 114 and 116 are orientated at a vertical angle,
and the blocks 102 between the two ends 114 and 116 are positioned
with the top walls 124 toward the floor in an angled orientation.
FIG. 4F illustrates a "chaise lounge" chair orientation where the
bottom wall 120 of several blocks 102 are positioned on the floor,
and the first-end block 114 operates as a pillow held in place by
the adjacent block 102. FIG. 4G illustrates a "hammock"
orientation, wherein the connected block play system 100 is placed
in the "bridge and slide" configuration as explained herein, but
rather than having the flap 108 positioned on the floor, the center
blocks 102 are placed on the floor and the user can rest on the
flap 108 as if in a hammock. Similarly, FIG. 4H illustrates a
"rocker" orientation where connected block play system 100 is again
placed in the "bridge and slide" configuration as explained herein,
but rather than having the flap 108 positioned on the floor, the
blocks 102 between the center blocks 102 and the first-end block
114 are located on the floor so that the flap 108 is at an angle to
the floor. The user can rest on the flap 108 and rock back and
forth as if in a rocking chair. FIG. 4I illustrates a "Couch
lounge" chair orientation, whereby the first-end block 114 and
several additional blocks 102 are placed with the top wall 124 on
the floor, and then the second-end block 116 and an adjacent block
102 are elevated on a surface such as a chair, couch or table, and
the user can rest on the bottom wall 120 of the blocks 102 in a
couch orientation. FIG. 4J illustrates a "barricade" orientation
whereby the connected block play system 100 is placed on edge, such
as on the first end wall 126 of the blocks 102. FIG. 4K illustrates
a "tunnel" orientation whereby the connected block play system 100
is configured in the "bridge and slide" configuration, and the user
plays under the blocks 102 which operate as a tunnel. FIG. 4L
illustrates a "fort" orientation, whereby the connected block play
system 100 is configured in the "bridge and slide" configuration,
but it is then placed on edge so that the first end wall 126 of the
blocks 102 is on the floor and the user can reside within the
cavity between the flap 108 and the bottom walls 120 of the blocks
102 as if in a fort.
[0050] Referring now to the embodiment of FIGS. 5-7, there is shown
another embodiment of a connected block play system 200. The
connected block play system 200 of this embodiment similarly
comprises a plurality of blocks 202 that are connected and
pivotable with respect to adjacent blocks 202, but this connected
block play system 200 also allows for the blocks 202 to be
pivotable about a centerline of each block 202, such that each
block 202 can be folded in half. Accordingly, each block 202 in
this embodiment preferably has three hinges or connection members.
Two first connection members 204 or hinges 204 between adjacent
blocks 202, and a second connection member or hinge 230 between
adjacent halves of each block 202.
[0051] As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, in this embodiment each block
202 is in the shape of an elongated half-cylinder and have the
cross-sectional shape of a half of a circle, meaning 180.degree. of
a circle. In one embodiment, the half-cylinder blocks 202 comprise
a flat bottom wall 220 and a curved top wall 224, such as
180.degree. of a circle, joining the two edges of the flat bottom
wall 220. The blocks 202 are preferably elongated and pivotally
connected to adjacent blocks 202 about either a backer 205 or an
alternate pivoting connection member 204 at the edge 223 where the
top wall 224 and the bottom wall 220 are joined. The blocks 202
also have a first end wall 226 and a second end wall 228. Unlike
the blocks 102 from the first embodiment, the blocks 202 of this
embodiment also pivot in half about another pivoting connection
member 230, which may also be the backer 205, at the joint 232 on
the bottom wall 220 that extends from one edge 223 to the opposing
edge 223 of the block 202. Preferably, the joint 232 is at the
midpoint about a length of the bottom wall 220 of the block 202.
Thus, the half-cylinder blocks 202 can be folded such that the
bottom wall 220 of one half of the half-cylinder block 202 is
positioned against the bottom wall 220 of the other half of the
same half-cylinder block 202 to create a full cylinder as shown in
FIGS. 7F and 7G.
[0052] In this embodiment, connection member 204 is used to
pivotally connect adjacent blocks 202 at the edge 223 of each of
the blocks 202, and connection member 230, such as backer 205, is
used to pivotally connect one half of a block 202 with the other
half of the same block 202. In an alternate embodiment, the blocks
202 are positioned in sleeves, and adjacent sleeves are pivotally
connected to one another, such as with a connection member, such as
a living hinge. The sleeves also should allow for the blocks 202 to
be folded in half on themselves. The edges of adjacent sleeves may
be pivotally connected. In a further embodiment, alternate
connection members 204 such as backers, hinges, slide hinges, male
and female pivoting receivers, etc. may be used to pivotally
connect adjacent blocks 202 as well as form the connection member
230 at the joint 232 on the bottom wall 220 of each block 202.
Additionally, in alternate embodiments the connection members 204
may be able to disconnect and reconnect so that any number of
blocks 202 can be connected in series together. And, different
shape blocks may be connected together in any combination with such
connection members 204.
[0053] As with the first embodiment, this embodiment of the
connected block play system 200 may also have a flap 208 to connect
opposing end blocks 202, for example, as shown in FIGS. 7C and 7D.
In one embodiment, a first end 210 of the flap 208 may be secured
to an edge 223 of a first-end block 214 of the series of blocks
202. The second-end block 216 on the opposing end of the series of
blocks 202 may have a receiver 218 at an edge 223 thereof to secure
the second end 212 of the flap 208 thereto. The receiver 218 can be
a clip, Velcro member, D-ring, etc.
[0054] The connected block play system 200 of the embodiment of
FIGS. 5-7 may be configured in a plurality of orientations. For
example, in FIG. 7A the connected block play system 200 of this
embodiment may be laid flat in a "balance bridge" orientation
whereby the flat bottom wall 220 of each adjacent blocks 202 is
placed on the floor so that a child can walk on the curved top
walls 224 of the blocks 202. FIG. 7B illustrates a "wobbly bridge"
configuration whereby the curved top wall 224 of each block 202 is
placed on the floor and the user can walk on the bottom wall 22.
FIG. 7C illustrates a "climb and slide" orientation whereby the
blocks 202 are orientated with the curved top wall 224 up and the
edges 223 of adjacent blocks 202 being adjacent one another. The
flap 208 extending from the first-end block 214 is connected to the
opposing second-end block 216 via Velcro straps and Velcro
receivers 218. The flap 208 is placed on the floor and with the
blocks 202 in an arch above the flap 208. The length of the flap
208 is shorter than the length of the connected blocks 202 and
results in an arch being created. FIG. 7D and FIG. 6 illustrate a
similar "arch climber" where the blocks 202 are first folded about
their joint 232 to create a full cylinder for each block 202. Then,
the blocks 202 are converted into an arch as explained above and
the flap 208 is secured from the first-end block 214 to the
second-end block 216. FIG. 7E illustrates a "tunnel" orientation
whereby the connected block play system 200 is configured in the
"climb and slide" configuration, and the user plays under the
blocks 202 which operate as a tunnel. FIGS. 5 and 5F illustrate a
"stepping stones" configuration whereby the blocks 202 are first
folded about their joint 232 to create a full cylinder for each
block 202, and then the blocks 202 are placed on edge on their
second end wall 228. FIG. 7G illustrates "wobbly stones" whereby
the blocks 202 are first folded about their joint 232 to create a
full cylinder for each block 202, and then the blocks 202 are
placed on their curved top wall 224. FIG. 7H illustrates a "fort"
orientation, whereby the connected block play system 200 is
configured in the "climb and slide" configuration, but it is then
placed on edge so that the second end wall 228 of the blocks 202 is
on the floor and the user can reside within the cavity between the
flap 208 and the bottom walls 220 of the blocks 202 as if in a
fort. FIG. 7I illustrates a "hammock" orientation, wherein the
connected block play system 200 is placed in the "climb and slide"
configuration as explained herein, but rather than having the flap
208 positioned on the floor, the top wall 224 of the center blocks
202 are placed on the floor and the user can rest on the flap 208
as if in a hammock. Similarly, FIG. 7J illustrates a "rocker"
orientation where connected block play system 200 is again placed
in the "climb and slide" configuration as explained herein, but
rather than having the flap 208 positioned on the floor, the blocks
202 between the center blocks 202 and the first-end block 214 are
located on the floor so that the flap 208 is at an angle to the
floor. The user can rest on the flap 208 and rock back and forth as
if in a rocking chair. FIG. 7K illustrates a "couch lounge" chair
orientation, whereby the first-end block 214 and several additional
blocks 202 are placed with the bottom wall 220 on the floor, and
then the second-end block 216 and an adjacent block 202 are
elevated on a surface such as a chair, couch or table, and the user
can rest on the top wall 224 of the blocks 202 in a couch
orientation. FIG. 7L illustrates a "chaise lounge" chair whereby
the bottom wall 220 of the first-end block 214 is pivoted against
the bottom wall 220 of the adjacent block 202, the bottom wall 220
of the second-end block 216 is pivoted against the bottom wall 220
of the adjacent block 202, and the middle blocks 202 are positioned
with their bottom walls 220 on the floor. FIG. 7M illustrates a
"bed" configuration whereby the bottom wall 220 of the first-end
block 216 is pivoted against the bottom wall 220 of the adjacent
block 202 to create a pillow, and then the remailing blocks 202 are
positioned with their curved top wall 224 on the floor so the user
can rest on the bottom walls 220 of those blocks 202. FIG. 7N
illustrates a "sofa" whereby the user creates a "chaise lounge"
configures, but then turns it over such that the curved top wall
224 is positioned on the floor and the user can rest on the bottom
walls 220 of those blocks 202. FIG. 7O illustrates a "barricade"
orientation whereby the connected block play system 200 is placed
on edge, such as on the first end wall 226 of the blocks 202 is
positioned on the floor to create a barricade or wall.
[0055] Referring now to FIGS. 8-10, there is shown another
embodiment of a connected block play system 300. The connected
block play system 300 of this embodiment generally comprises a
plurality of blocks 302 that are connected and pivotable with
respect to adjacent blocks 302. In one embodiment, a connection
member 304, such as for example a living hinge 304 or a backer 305
is used to pivotally connect adjacent blocks 302 at a side of each
of the blocks 302. In a further embodiment, alternate connection
members 304 such as a backer, hinges, slide hinges, male and female
pivoting receivers, etc. may be used to pivotally connect adjacent
blocks 302. Additionally, in alternate embodiments the connection
members 304 may be able to disconnect and reconnect so that any
number of blocks 302 can be connected in series together. And,
different shape blocks may be connected together in any combination
with such connection members 304.
[0056] In this embodiment, the blocks 302 are elongated polygon
members that have a bottom wall 320, opposing side walls 322, a top
wall 324, a first end wall 326 and a second end wall 328. The
opposing side walls 322 angle in such that the width of the top
wall 324 is smaller than the width of the bottom wall 320.
Similarly, the first end wall 326 and the second end wall 328 angle
in such that a length of the top wall 324 is smaller than a length
of the bottom wall 320. With such geometry, it is understood that
the cross-sectional shape of the blocks 302 will vary from the
first end wall 326 to the second end wall 328 thereof. This is
because the cross-sectional area of the blocks 302 increases from
the first end wall 326 to the second end wall 328. The blocks 302
are preferably pivotally connected to adjacent blocks 302 with
connection members 304 adjacent their side walls 322, and more
preferably at an edge 323 where the side walls 322 join the bottom
wall 320, or with a backer 305 preferably connected to their bottom
walls 320.
[0057] A flap may not be required in this embodiment. However, the
first and second-end blocks 314, 316 may have a fastener system
317, 318 to secure the first-end block 314 to the second-end block
316 as shown in FIG. 9. The fastener system 317, 318 may include
clips, Velcro members, D-rings, etc. In one embodiment, a first
receiver 317 is connected to the first-end block 314 and extends
distal a first of the opposing side walls of the first-end block
314, and a second receiver 318 is connected to the second-end block
316 and extends distal a second of the side walls of the second-end
block 316. The second receiver 318 engages the first receiver 317
to secure the first-end block 314 adjacent the second-end block 316
in a closed orientation.
[0058] The connected block play system 300 of the embodiment of
FIGS. 8-11 may be configured in a plurality of orientations. For
example, FIGS. 10A and 11A illustrate a "curved bridge" orientation
where the top wall 324 of each block 302 is on the floor to allow a
user to walk on the upward facing adjacent bottom walls 320. FIGS.
10B and 11B illustrate a "fort" orientation where the second end
wall 328 of each block 302 other than the first-end block 314,
where all of the blocks 302 other than the first-end block 314 are
positioned with their side walls 322 adjacent one another, and
where the first-end block 314 is positioned like an open door with
the bottom wall 320 of the first-end block 314 positioned against
the bottom wall 320 of the adjacent block 302. FIGS. 9, 10C and 11C
illustrate a "climb and hide" orientation that is similar to the
"fort" orientation, however, the first-end block 314 is not
positioned with its bottom wall 320 against the bottom wall 320 of
the adjacent block. Instead the first-end block 314 has each of its
sidewalls 322 against adjacent side walls of adjacent blocks 302,
and the fastener system 318 may be used to secure the first-end
block 314 to the second-end block 316 to lock the connected block
play system 300 in a cone shape. FIGS. 10D and 11D illustrate a
"stepping stones" orientation where the bottom wall 320 of each
block 302 is on the floor to allow a user to walk on the upward
facing adjacent top walls 324 with a gap between each top wall 324.
FIGS. 8 and 10E illustrate a "double tunnel" orientation where the
sidewalls 322 of three blocks are adjacent one another and the
sidewalls 322 of three other blocks are adjacent one another, but
the joint between the third and the fourth blocks 302 is open.
FIGS. 10F and 11F illustrate a "roller seat" orientation whereby
the connected block play system 300 is placed in the "climb and
hide" configuration, and then the connected block play system 300
is positioned such that one of the bottom walls 324 of one block
302 is positioned on the floor for a user to side inside the system
300 on a top wall 324 of one of the blocks 302. FIGS. 10G and 11G
illustrate a "tall stones" orientation where the top walls 324 of
three adjacent blocks 302 are placed on the floor, and the next
three blocks 302 are folded over on the three blocks 302 on the
floor such that the bottom walls 320 of the top three blocks 302
rest on the bottom walls 320 of the bottom three blocks 302. FIGS.
10H and 11H illustrate a "tunnel and mat" orientation where the
first-end block 314 and two adjoining blocks are fixed with their
side walls 322 adjacent one another in a tunnel configuration, and
the next three blocks 302 are placed with their top walls 320 on
the floor in a mat configuration. FIGS. 10I and 11I illustrate a
"cone pit" orientation whereby the connected block play system 300
is placed in the "climb and hide" configuration, but the connected
block play system 300 is positioned such that the first end wall
314 of each block 302 is on the floor in an inverted cone to allow
a user to sit in the connected block play system 300.
[0059] It is also understood that different connected block play
systems 100, 200, 300 in a variety of configurations can be
combined for different play situations. For example, as shown in
FIG. 12, the third embodiment of the connected block play system
300 may be placed in the "climb and slide" orientation and put on
the top of both one of the first and second embodiments of the
connected block play systems 100, 200 that are positioned on edge
in their "barricade" orientations. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 13,
various connected block play systems 100, 200, 300 may be placed in
different orientations to create an obstacle course. The ability to
combine different connected block play systems 100, 200, 300
together in different orientations and different combinations
allows for endless opportunities. Additionally, within a single
connected block play system it is understood that different shaped
blocks may be combined together instead of all of the same shape
blocks being part of a single connected block play system.
[0060] The embodiments detailed hereinabove may be combined in full
or in part, with any alternative embodiments described.
[0061] A reference to an element in the singular is not intended to
mean "one and only one" unless specifically stated, but rather "one
or more." The term "some" refers to one or more. Underlined and/or
italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only,
do not limit the subject technology, and are not referred to in
connection with the interpretation of the description of the
subject technology. Relational terms such as first and second and
the like may be used to distinguish one entity or action from
another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such
relationship or order between such entities or actions. All
structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the
various configurations described throughout this disclosure that
are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in
the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended
to be encompassed by the subject technology. Moreover, nothing
disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public
regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the
above description.
[0062] Numerous modifications to the present disclosure will be
apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing
description. Preferred embodiments of this disclosure are described
herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying
out the disclosure. It should be understood that the illustrated
embodiments are exemplary only, and should not be taken as limiting
the scope of the disclosure.
[0063] Several alternative embodiments and examples have been
described and illustrated herein. A person of ordinary skill in the
art would appreciate the features of the individual embodiments,
and the possible combinations and variations of the components. A
person of ordinary skill in the art would further appreciate that
any of the embodiments could be provided in any combination with
the other embodiments disclosed herein. Additionally, the terms
"first," "second," "third," and "fourth" as used herein are
intended for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the
embodiments in any way. Further, the term "plurality" as used
herein indicates any number greater than one, either disjunctively
or conjunctively, as necessary, up to an infinite number.
Additionally, the term "having" as used herein in both the
disclosure and claims, is utilized in an open-ended manner.
[0064] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of" preceding a
series of items, with the terms "and" or "or" to separate any of
the items, modifies the list as a whole, rather than each member of
the list (i.e., each item). The phrase "at least one of" does not
require selection of at least one item; rather, the phrase allows a
meaning that includes at least one of any one of the items, and/or
at least one of any combination of the items, and/or at least one
of each of the items. By way of example, the phrases "at least one
of A, B, and C" or "at least one of A, B, or C" each refer to only
A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and/or at
least one of each of A, B, and C.
[0065] To the extent that the term "include," "have," or the like
is used in the description or the claims, such term is intended to
be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprise" as
"comprise" is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a
claim. Phrases such as an aspect, the aspect, another aspect, some
aspects, one or more aspects, an implementation, the
implementation, another implementation, some implementations, one
or more implementations, an embodiment, the embodiment, another
embodiment, some embodiments, one or more embodiments, a
configuration, the configuration, another configuration, some
configurations, one or more configurations, the subject technology,
the disclosure, the present disclosure, other variations thereof
and alike are for convenience and do not imply that a disclosure
relating to such phrase(s) is essential to the subject technology
or that such disclosure applies to all configurations of the
subject technology. A disclosure relating to such phrase(s) may
apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A
disclosure relating to such phrase(s) may provide one or more
examples. A phrase such as an aspect or some aspects may refer to
one or more aspects and vice versa, and this applies similarly to
other foregoing phrases.
[0066] A reference to an element in the singular is not intended to
mean "one and only one" unless specifically stated, but rather "one
or more." The term "some" refers to one or more. Underlined and/or
italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only,
do not limit the subject technology, and are not referred to in
connection with the interpretation of the description of the
subject technology. Relational terms such as first and second and
the like may be used to distinguish one entity or action from
another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such
relationship or order between such entities or actions. All
structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the
various configurations described throughout this disclosure that
are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in
the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended
to be encompassed by the subject technology. Moreover, nothing
disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public
regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the
above description. No claim element is to be construed under the
provisions of 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 112, sixth paragraph, unless the
element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for" or, in
the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase
"step for."
[0067] While this specification contains many specifics, these
should not be construed as limitations on the scope of what may be
claimed, but rather as descriptions of particular implementations
of the subject matter. Certain features that are described in this
specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be
implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely,
various features that are described in the context of a single
embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments
separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although
features may be described above as acting in certain combinations
and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a
claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the
combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a
subcombination or variation of a subcombination.
[0068] The title, background, brief description of the drawings,
abstract, and drawings are hereby incorporated into the disclosure
and are provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure, not as
restrictive descriptions. It is submitted with the understanding
that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the
claims. In addition, in the detailed description, it can be seen
that the description provides illustrative examples and the various
features are grouped together in various implementations for the
purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The method of disclosure is
not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed
subject matter requires more features than are expressly recited in
each claim. Rather, as the claims reflect, inventive subject matter
lies in less than all features of a single disclosed configuration
or operation. The claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed
description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately
claimed subject matter.
[0069] It will be understood that the present disclosure may be
embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit
or central characteristics thereof. The present examples and
embodiments, therefore, are to be considered in all respects as
illustrative and not restrictive, and the Claims are not to be
limited to the details given herein. Accordingly, while the
specific embodiments have been illustrated and described, numerous
modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the
spirit of the disclosure and the scope of protection is only
limited by the scope of the accompanying Claims.
[0070] Further, the claims are not intended to be limited to the
aspects described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope
consistent with the language claims and to encompass all legal
equivalents. Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to
embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of
the applicable patent law, nor should they be interpreted in such a
way.
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