BUILDING BLOCKS AND BUILDING BLOCK ASSEMBLIES

[0001] The present application is a Continuation Application of PCT Application No. PCT/IB2018/052890 filed on Apr. 26, 2018, which claims the benefit of Hong Kong Patent Application Nos. 17104288.4 filed on Apr. 26, 2017 and 17111979.3 filed on Nov. 16, 2017. All the above are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to building blocks and building block assemblies, and more particularly to interconnectible modular building blocks for use in toys, industrials and commerce. Background

[0003] Modular building blocks that can be inter-connected to form structural assemblies have many practical use and applications, for example, in the toy, industry and commerce sectors. Modular interconnectible building blocks facilitate cost effective and expeditious assembly and promotes standardization and are widely used in the construction industry. Modular interconnectible toy building blocks are widely used in education and leisure, as wisely designed building blocks promote creativity and can help train motor skills.

[0004] Modular building blocks that can be inter-connected typically comprises a main body and a plurality of inter-block connectors on the main body. The inter-block connectors are usually adapted for releasable interlocking of compatible building blocks without the need to use hand-tools to facilitate expeditious, efficient and convenient inter-block connection.

[0005] There is disclosed a building block or a building block assembly comprising a main body, a first coupling surface on a first side of the main body, a second coupling surface on a second side of the main body which is opposite facing to the first coupling surface, one peripheral wall having a peripheral surface or a plurality of peripheral wall having a plurality of peripheral surface extending between the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface and defining a lateral or peripheral boundary of the main body, one coupling connector or a plurality of coupling connectors on or defining the first coupling surface and defining a first coupling direction, one coupling connector or a plurality of coupling connectors on or defining the second coupling surface and defining a second coupling direction, and one peripheral connector or a plurality of peripheral connectors formed on a peripheral wall. The peripheral connector is a partial connector of an inter-block connector, the inter-block connector having a center axis defining a connection axis and a connection direction and having a transversal dimension which is measured in a direction orthogonal to the connection axis and passing through the center axis. The partial connector being an axially split portion of the inter-block connector and comprising an axially extending split surface which defines a split plane, and the split surface extends along a splitting direction which is parallel to the connector axis of the inter-block connector. The peripheral connector has an axial extent defined in the connection direction and a transversal extent defined in a direction orthogonal to the connection direction and orthogonal to the split surface or the split plane or orthogonal to the first coupling surface and/or the second coupling surface or orthogonal to the peripheral surface on which it is formed. The coupling connector and the inter-block connector are compatible building block connectors having matching features of compatible mating feature dimensions and the transversal extent of the partial connector is a fraction of the transversal dimension of the inter-block connector or of the coupling connector.

[0006] In some embodiments, the transversal extent of the partial connector is smaller than or not exceeding half of the transversal dimension of the inter-block connector, and the transversal dimension and the transversal extent are measured in a same direction.

[0007] In some embodiments, the coupling connector has an axial extent, the axial extent being measured with respect to the coupling surface on which the coupling connector is formed, and the axial extent of the coupling connector and the axial extent of the peripheral connector are same or comparable.

[0008] In some embodiments, the plurality of peripheral connectors comprises one male-type peripheral connector and/or one female type peripheral connector; and the male-type peripheral connector protrudes from the peripheral surface and extends orthogonally away from the peripheral surface along the connection direction, and the female-type peripheral connector has a partial receptacle compartment for receiving a building block connector and defined by a partial receptacle wall, the partial receptacle wall projecting away from the peripheral surface and extending into the main body for an axial extent comparable to the axial extent of the coupling connector.

[0009] In some embodiments, the split surface of the peripheral connector and the first coupling surface or the second coupling surface are in same facing direction; and/or the split surface is flush with or proximal to the first coupling surface or the second coupling surface.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least one male-type coupling connector is formed on the first coupling surface, and the split surface of the peripheral connector and the first coupling surface are facing in a same facing direction and/or the split surface is flush with or proximal to the first coupling surface.

[0011] In some embodiments, the transversal extent of the peripheral connector is defined by a first split plane and a second split plane which is parallel to the first split plane and the connector axis.

[0012] In some embodiments, the peripheral connector has a first transversal end on the first coupling surface and a second transversal end of the second coupling surface.

[0013] In some embodiments, the peripheral wall has a depth which is measured in a direction parallel to the coupling direction, and the transversal extent of the peripheral connector is comparable, equal to or larger than the depth of the peripheral wall.

[0014] In some embodiments, the peripheral connector comprises at least one male-type partial connector, and the male-type partial connector has a transversal extent which comparable to, equal with or exceeding depth of the peripheral wall.

[0015] In some embodiments, the peripheral connector comprises at least one male-type partial connector, and the male-type partial connector has a transversal end which projects and protrude beyond the first coupling surface or the second coupling surface.

[0016] There is disclosed a building block or a building block assembly according to any preceding Claims, comprising a first component block on which the first coupling surface is defined and a second component block on which the second coupling surface is defined. The first component block and the second component block are detachably connected by a plurality of inter-block connectors and are in abutment contact at a dividing surface, the dividing surface being intermediate the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface; and the dividing surface divides the partial connector into two axially split portions and the dividing surface defines a dividing plane which is parallel to the split plane or the split surface.

[0017] In some embodiments, the inter-block connectors connecting the first and second component blocks are aligned with the inter-block connectors on or defining the first coupling surface and/or the second coupling surface; and the inter-block connectors connecting the first and second component blocks and the inter-block connectors on or defining the first coupling surface and/or the second coupling surface are compatible inter-block connectors having mating features of compatible mating feature dimensions.

[0018] In some embodiments, the assembly comprises a first component block on which the first coupling surface is defined, a second component block on which the second coupling surface is defined, and a third component block. The first component block and the second component block are detachable and are in abutment contact at a first dividing surface. The second component block and the third component block are detachable and are in abutment contact at a second dividing surface.

[0019] Modular and inter-connectible building blocks and assemblies comprising modular and interconnectible are disclosed.

[0020] A building block that can be connected in a sidewise manner and/or by stacking is disclosed. The possibility of connection by stacking engagement and/or by sidewise connection provides useful utility in many applications. For example, as toy or in construction. The building block comprises a first surface, at least a row or a column of connectors comprising a plurality of connectors which is formed on the first surface, a second surface, a peripheral surface depending from the first surface and comprising a first lateral surface and a second lateral surface which is opposite facing to the first lateral surface, and a plurality of connectors on the peripheral surface.

[0021] The building block may be manufactured as tiles, for example, porcelain tiles, ceramic tiles, etc., for use in modular construction of buildings or building structures.

[0022] The connector has a coupling axis defining a coupling direction which extends along the coupling axis.

[0023] The connector comprises a connection portion having an axial extent in the axial direction, and a peripheral profile and a radial profile with respect to the coupling axis.

[0024] The connectors are distributed along a distribution axis which is a line of symmetry about which the row or the column of connectors is laterally symmetrical, and the distribution axis and the coupling axes of the connectors of the row of connectors cooperate to define a plane of lateral symmetry about which the row of connectors is laterally symmetrical.

[0025] A partial connector is formed on the first lateral surface and a partial connector is optionally formed on the second lateral surface. Additional partial connectors may be formed on other lateral surfaces and/or the first and second lateral surfaces. The partial connector is a truncated portion of a lateral connector which has a lateral coupling axis defining a lateral coupling direction and which is compatible to the connector on the first surface and the lateral connector.

[0026] In some embodiments, the partial connector has a plane of truncation which is parallel to the first surface.

[0027] In some embodiments, the partial connector has a plane of truncation which is orthogonal to the plane of symmetry.

[0028] In some embodiments, the partial connector has a plane of truncation which is flush with the first surface.

[0029] In some embodiments, the partial connector is laterally symmetrical about the plane of symmetry.

[0030] In some embodiments, the partial connector is laterally symmetrical about an axis of lateral symmetry and the axis of lateral symmetry is on the plane of symmetry and orthogonal to the distribution axis.

[0031] In some embodiments, the peripheral surface has a depth measured in a direction parallel to the coupling direction of the connector on the first surface, and the partial connector has a radial extent along the line of symmetry, the radial extent being equal to or larger than the depth of the peripheral surface.

[0032] In some embodiments, a partial connector on the first lateral surface has a corresponding partial connector on the first lateral surface which is coupling axes aligned.

[0033] In some embodiments, the partial connector on the first lateral surface is a truncated portion of a first lateral connector which is compatible to the connector on the first surface, and the partial connector on the second lateral surface is a truncated portion of a second lateral connector which is compatible to the connector on the first surface; and the first lateral connector and the second lateral connector are compatible connectors having opposite mating genders.

[0034] In some embodiments, the partial connector is a bisected portion of a lateral connector.

[0035] In some embodiments, the partial connector on the first lateral surface is a bisected portion of a male lateral connector, and the partial connector projects beyond the first surface.

[0036] In some embodiments, peripheral surface is orthogonal to the first surface and the partial connector comprises a partial receptacle compartment, and the partial receptacle is formed as a recess on the peripheral surface of the building block and has an interior peripheral wall defining a boundary of a partial receptacle compartment of the partial connector. The interior peripheral wall follows the peripheral profile of the connector on the first surface.

[0037] In some embodiments, the partial connector has a depth comparable to the axial extent of the connector on the first surface, the depth being measured in a direction parallel to the coupling axis of the lateral connector defining the partial connector.

[0038] In some embodiments, the connector has a diametrical radial extent measured along the distribution axis, and the partial connector has an axial extent measured along the line of symmetry, and the axial extent of the partial connector along its line of symmetry is equal to or less than half of the diametrical radial extent.

[0039] In some embodiments, the axial extent of the partial connector along its line of symmetry is between ⅓ to ¼ of the diametrical radial extent.

[0040] In some embodiments, the connector on the first surface has an axis symmetrical peripheral profile and the partial connector has a peripheral wall following the peripheral profile of the connector on the first surface.

[0041] In some embodiments, the second surface is parallel to and opposite facing to the first surface, and the peripheral surface interconnects the first surface and the second surface; and the partial connector has a plane of truncation which is on or flush with the second surface.

[0042] In some embodiments, the partial connector has a peripheral profile which is non-symmetrical about the first surface or the second surface, the peripheral profile being a profile in a peripheral direction orthogonal to and surrounding the lateral coupling axis.

[0043] In some embodiments, the partial connector has a peripheral profile which tappers on extending between the first surface and the second surface.

[0044] In some embodiments, the partial connector has a peripheral profile, the peripheral profile being a profile in a peripheral direction orthogonal to and surrounding the lateral coupling axis; and the peripheral profile of the partial connectors on the first lateral surface and the second lateral surface which are couple axes aligned have their peripheral profiles aligned.

[0045] In some embodiments, a plurality of connectors is present on the second surface, and a connector on the second surface has a corresponding connector on the first surface. A connector on the second surface and a corresponding connector on the first surface are compatible and are coupling axes aligned.

[0046] In some embodiments, the connector on the second surface and the corresponding connector on the first surface are connectors of opposite mating genders.

[0047] In some embodiments, the first lateral surface has a width in a direction orthogonal to the distribution axis and a thickness in a direction orthogonal to the first surface, and the thickness is smaller than the width.

[0048] In some embodiments, the thickness and the width have a ratio which is between ½ and ¼, between ½ and ⅓, and/or between ⅓ and ¼, or a range or ranges combined form the aforesaid.

[0049] In some embodiments, the building block is molded of hard plastics and the connector and the lateral connector are snap connectors having snap engagement portions. A snap connector herein may or may not have latching features such as tapered wedging or latching features.

[0050] In some embodiments, the building block is molded of a rigid and non-resilient material such as glass, porcelain, china, clay, concrete; and the connector and the partial connector are non-snap connectors.

[0051] A building block assembly comprising a plurality of component building blocks. Each component building block is a building block. The component building blocks are stacked to form a stacked assembly of building blocks. Each component building block has a basic block portion comprising the first surface, the plurality of connectors on the first surface, the second surface, and the peripheral wall, and comprises at least one partial connector on a lateral surface; and the component building blocks have an identical basic block portion but partial connectors having non-identical peripheral profiles. The partial connectors of the plurality of component building blocks cooperate to form an assembled lateral connector.

[0052] In some embodiments, the building block assembly comprises an upper surface, a lower surface and a side surface interconnecting the upper surface and the lower surface. The upper surface is the first surface of a component building block, the lower upper surface is the second surface of another component building block and the side surface is formed by stacking of the peripheral surfaces of the plurality of component building blocks, and the assembled lateral connector is a male connector.

[0053] In some embodiments, the side surface comprises a first side surface and a second side surface which is parallel with and opposite facing to the first side surface. A first assembled lateral connector having a first lateral coupling axis is formed on the first side surface and a second assembled lateral connector having a second lateral coupling axis is formed on the second side surface. The first assembled lateral connector and the second assembled lateral connector are lateral connectors of opposite mating genders.

[0054] In some embodiments, the first lateral coupling axis and the second lateral coupling surface are aligned and parallel to the distribution axis.

[0055] A building block assembly comprising a plurality of component building blocks. Each component building block is a building block and adjacent component building blocks are sidewise connected such that the distribution axes of the adjacent component building blocks are aligned and/or the first surfaces of the adjacent component building blocks are flush. The building block comprises a first partial connector on the first lateral side and a second partial connector on the second lateral side, the first and second partial connectors being complementary or reciprocal; and the second partial connector of a first component building block is connected with the first partial connector of a second component building block which is adjacent to the first component building block.

[0056] In some embodiments, the component building block is molded of a rigid and non-resilient material such as glass, porcelain, china, clay, concrete; and the connector and the partial connector are non-snap connectors; and adjacent component building blocks are connected by a binding agent such a glues, cements, or resins.

[0057] A building block herein comprises one or a plurality of connectors to facilitate detachable or releasable mechanical connection between modular building blocks in abutment. The mechanical connection is typically by press-fitting or snap-fitting. The building block comprises one connector or a plurality of connectors on at least one connection surface and building blocks can be stacked with their respective connection surfaces in abutment connect and the connectors on their respective connection surfaces in detachable mechanical engagement.

[0058] A building block herein may be a toy building block. A toy building block is typically made of thermoplastics such as ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), PC (polycarbonate), or other plastic materials that a high degree of strength and rigidity, as well as a small degree of resilience to be slightly resiliently deformable to facilitate press-fit or snap-fit engagement.

[0059] A building block herein may be made of clay, ceramic, porcelain, concrete, or other mouldable materials that have a high rigidity and a very low degree of resilience or virtually no resilience.

[0060] A building block herein may also be made of wood, metals, for example, steel, aluminium, aluminium alloys, or other materials that can be shaped.

[0061] Where a building block is made of a material having a high rigidity with a very low degree of resilience or no resilience, the building block may connect with a building block having a sufficient degree of resilience to facilitate mechanical connection by resilient deformation of the connector(s) thereon.

[0062] In general, a building blocks can be rigid and slightly resilient or non-resilient, and the rigidity and resilience may be selected to suit applications by selecting appropriate materials or appropriate mix of materials.

[0063] A building block herein may be ceramic building block or a porcelain building block. The ceramic or porcelain building block may be in the form of a ceramic brick or a porcelain brick, a ceramic tile or a porcelain tile, a ceramic panel or a porcelain panel, or other forms of ceramic parts or porcelain parts without loss of generality. The ceramic or porcelain building blocks may be interconnected using binding agents such as glue, cement, or mortar to form the modules, assemblies or sub-assemblies, or interconnect with building blocks made of a rigid and slightly resilient material.

[0064] A building block herein typically comprises a main body, a first surface on a first side of the main body, a second surface on a second side of the main body, a peripheral portion extending between the first surface and the second surface, and a plurality of connectors formed on the main body. The main body is typically rigid or semi-rigid and the connectors have peripheral walls which are rigid or semi-rigid and having a small degree of resilience to facilitate snap engagement with corresponding connector through resilient deformation of the engagement portions of the connectors. The connectors are usually formed on a panel portion of the main body. In some embodiments, male connectors are formed on one panel portion and female connectors are formed on another panel portion separate from the panel portion on which the male connectors are formed. In some embodiments, male connectors and female connectors are formed on a common panel portion.

[0065] A connector herein means a building block connector unless the context requires otherwise. A building block connector comprises a connection portion having a coupling axis defining a coupling direction. The connection portion comprises an engagement portion for making closely fitted engagement with a matched connector portion of a matched connector to form a pair of engaged connectors.

[0066] An engagement portion comprises mechanical mating features for making closely fitted engagement with a corresponding engagement portion of a matched connector to form a pair of engaged engagement portions. An engagement portion may be a male engagement portion or a female engagement portion.

[0067] A connector is generally classified as a male connector or a female connector. However, a male connector may comprise a female engagement portion in addition to its inherent male engagement portion and a female connector may comprise a male engagement portion in addition to its inherent female engagement portion.

[0068] A male engagement portion comprises male mating features. A male engagement portion typically comprises a protrusion which is shaped and sized for closely-fitted reception of a corresponding female engagement portion. A protrusion adapted for closely-fitted reception of a corresponding female engagement portion is a matched corresponding male engagement portion of that corresponding female engagement portion. A protrusion herein is also referred to as a “protrusion portion”, a “protruding member”, a “protrusion member”, “protrusion body”, and “protruding body” and the terms are interchangeably used herein unless the context requires otherwise.

[0069] A female engagement portion comprises female mating features. A female engagement portion typically comprises a coupling receptacle which is shaped and sized for closely-fitted reception of a corresponding male engagement portion. A coupling receptacle adapted for closely-fitted reception of a corresponding male engagement portion is a matched corresponding female engagement portion of that corresponding male engagement portion. A receptacle herein means a coupling receptacle of a female building block connector unless the context requires otherwise. A coupling receptacle of a female building block connector is also referred to as a male engagement portion receptacle or a male-connector receptacle.

[0070] A pair of connectors having matched corresponding engagement portions when on separate building blocks are detachably engageable to form a releasable mechanical connection. When the pair of connectors have matched snap engagement portions, the connectors are snap engageable to form a snap engaged connector pair.

[0071] A male engagement portion and a corresponding female engagement portion having matched and compatible mating features will enter into closely fitted engagement when they are brought or moved relatively towards each other with their respective coupling axes aligned and press connected along the aligned coupling axes. The fitted or closely fitted engagement herein may be by interference fit or snap fit. When a pair of matched connectors herein are brought or moved relatively towards each other with their respective coupling axes aligned and then pressed together, the matched connectors will engage and enter into closely fitted engagement.

[0072] A connector has a characteristic radial profile. The radial profile of a connector is characterised by the radial extent of the engagement portion or the engagement portions of the connector between its axial ends. A snap connector is characterized by a non-uniform radial extent in the axial direction, and more particularly by a bulged radial profile.

[0073] A male connection portion comprises a protruding portion which is to enter into a receptacle of a corresponding female connection portion to make releasable mechanical engagement therewith. The protrusion portion may be in the form of a protrusion body, a protruding body, a protrusion member or a protruding member.

[0074] The protrusion portion of a male connection portion projects from a base surface and extends in an axial direction away from the base surface, the axial direction being with respect to the coupling axis of the protrusion portion. A male connection portion comprises a connector head defining its axial end. The axial extent of a protrusion portion, measured along the coupling axis of the male connection portion between the base surface from which it projects and its axial end, defines the height of the protrusion. The protruding body has an outer peripheral wall which defines the mating features of the protrusion portion, including shape, configuration, radial profile and dimensions.

[0075] The protrusion portion of a male snap connector has a radial profile which is defined by its outer peripheral wall. The radial profile of a snap connector is characterized by a non-uniform radial extent in the axial direction. A male snap connector typically comprises a bulged portion having a bulged radial profile and a reduced portion having a reduced radial profile.

[0076] A typical protrusion portion herein is an annular protrusion comprising a first protrusion portion and a second protrusion portion. The first protrusion portion and the second protrusion portion are in series and are aligned on the coupling axis. The first protrusion portion is in abutment with the base surface and the second protrusion portion comprises the axial end, which is usually a free axial end. The first protrusion portion is, in the axial direction, or axially, intermediate the second protrusion portion and the base surface.

[0077] The first protrusion portion is referred to as a neck portion which is supported on the base surface and the second protrusion portion is referred to as a head portion which is supported by the neck portion.

[0078] The head portion has an enlarged radial profile compared to the neck portion radial profile, and is also referred to as an enlarged portion. As the profile enlargement is in the radial direction, the head portion is also referred to as a widened portion.

[0079] In general, the head portion is an enlarged portion having a head portion radial profile which is a bulged radial profile, or a bulged profile in short.

[0080] The head portion has an outer periphery which is in the general form of a peripherally extending rib. A peripherally extending rib herein is an annular rib having the radial profile of the head portion radial profile in the peripheral direction. The annular rib is defined by the outer peripheral wall of the protrusion portion and may be continuous or non-continuous. The peripheral direction is orthogonal to the coupling axis and is a tangential direction to a circle defining the annular rib. The annular rib surrounds a core portion of the head portion, and the core portion of the head portion may be solid or hollow. When the core portion is hollow, the head portion is in the form of a hollow shell having an internal compartment. The head portion radial profile and the annular rib has the radial profile of a radial protrusion and defines an engagement portion, and more specifically, defines a male snap engagement portion of a male connection portion. The engagement portion on the head portion of a male connection portion is referred to as a first engagement portion or a first snap engagement portion of the protrusion portion or of the male connection portion for ease of reference. The terms “rib” and “ridge” are equivalent and are used interchangeably herein.

[0081] The bulged head portion has a maximum radial extent defining a maximum radial plane at an axial level with respect to the base surface. The maximum radial plane is a maximum transversal plane, and the axial level of the maximum radial plane is a maximum radial extent level.

[0082] The bulged portion has a lower surface which extends between the maximum radial plane and the base surface. The lower surface is a tapered surface which oppositely faces the base surface. The radial extent of the lower surface of the bulged head portion at an axial level decreases as the axial level moves closer towards the base level of the base surface to define a lower tapered surface. Conversely, the radial extent of the lower surface of the bulged head portion at an axial level increases as the axial level of the lower surface away from the base surface increases. The radial extent of the lower surface of the bulged head portion reaches a local minimum at an axial level where it joins the neck portion.

[0083] The head portion tapers to narrow as it extends axially from the maximum radial extent plane towards the base surface. Conversely, the head portion flares to widen as it extends axially from the base surface towards the maximum radial extent plane.

[0084] The axial free end of the head portion may be flat or rounded. Where the axial free end is flat, the male connector has a flat head. Where the axial end is rounded, the male connector has a rounded head. The rounded head may be in the shape of a dome, a spherical cap, or a rounded boss or other suitable shapes.

[0085] The head portion radial profile extends in a peripheral direction to define an annular outer periphery of the head portion and the neck portion radial profile extends in a peripheral direction to define an annular outer periphery of the neck portion.

[0086] The neck portion has reduced radial profile compared to the head portion radial profile, and is also referred to as a reduced portion. As the profile reduction is in the radial direction, the neck portion is also referred to as a narrowed portion.

[0087] In general, the neck portion is a reduced enlarged portion having a neck portion radial profile which is a tapered radial profile, or a tapered profile in short.

[0088] The neck portion has an outer periphery which is in the form of a peripherally extending channel. The peripherally extending channel is an annular channel having the radial profile of the neck portion radial profile in the peripheral direction. The annular channel is defined by the outer peripheral wall of the protrusion portion and may be continuous or non-continuous. The peripheral direction is orthogonal to the coupling axis and is a tangential direction to a circle defining the annular channel. The annular channel, that is, the peripherally extending channel, surrounds a core portion of the neck portion, and the core portion of the neck portion may be solid or hollow. When the core portion is hollow, the neck portion is in the form of a hollow shell having an internal compartment. The neck portion radial profile and the annular channel has the radial profile of a radial indentation and defines an engagement portion, and more specifically, a female snap engagement portion on a male connection portion. The engagement portion on the neck portion of a male connection portion is referred to as a second engagement portion or a second snap engagement portion of the protrusion portion or of the male connection portion for ease of reference. This second engagement portion is a retention portion which is adapted to receive and retain a neck receptacle portion of a female connector. The terms “channel” and “groove” are equivalent and are used interchangeably herein.

[0089] The neck portion has a local maximum radial extent at an axial level where it joins or is in abutment with the head portion. The local maximum radial extent defines a local maximum radial plane, which is also a local maximum transversal plane.

[0090] The neck portion has an outer peripheral surface which extends between the local maximum radial plane and the base surface. The outer peripheral surface is a tapered surface which oppositely faces the base surface. The radial extent of the outer peripheral surface of the neck portion at an axial level decreases as the axial level moves closer towards the base level of the base surface to define a tapered outer peripheral surface. Conversely, the radial extent of the outer peripheral surface of the narrowed neck portion at an axial level increases as the axial level of the outer peripheral surface away from the base surface increases. The radial extent of the outer peripheral surface of the neck portion reaches a local minimum at an axial level where it joins the head portion. The outer peripheral surface is optionally a smooth continuation of the lower surface of the head portion. Where the lower surface of the head portion follows a curved profile to taper, the radial profile of the outer peripheral surface may follow a curved profile which is a curved continuation of the curved profile to taper. In some embodiments, the curved profile follows a radius of curvature equal to half the maximum radial extent.

[0091] Therefore, the neck portion tapers to narrow as it extends axially from the local maximum radial extent plane towards the base surface. Conversely, the neck portion flares to widen as it extends axially from the base surface towards the local maximum radial extent plane.

[0092] While the peripheral channel is primarily defined by the outer peripheral surface of the neck portion in cooperation with the base surface, the entire channel may be regarded as being defined by the lower axial end of the enlarged portion, the narrowed neck portion and the base surface in cooperation.

[0093] The channel may have a constant radial extent in the axial direction or may have a tapered radial profile such that the radial extent of the neck portion decreases as its axial level decreases towards the base surface.

[0094] The tapering may follow a curved profile, for example the profile of a convex curve, a straight slope or other desired profiles without loss of generality.

[0095] In general, the axial extent of a protrusion of a connection portion is a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the protrusion, and the fraction is optionally between 20% and 80%, for example, in percentage terms, at 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, or any range or ranges defined by a combination of any of the aforesaid values and/or ranges. Typically, the axial extent will be in the higher range of between 50% and 80% where the protrusion has a rounded end or partial spherical end and in the lower range of 15% and 60% where the protrusion has a flat head or flat axial end. For an annular protrusion, the maximum radial extent E is the diameter D of a circle, the circle defines a maximum radial extent plane and the aforesaid fraction is also in respect of the diameter.

[0096] The axial extent between the maximum radial extent level and the axial free end of the protrusion portion is a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the protrusion, and the fraction is optionally between 5% and 50% of the maximum radial extent, E, at the maximum radial extent level, for example, in percentage terms, at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges. This axial extent of the upper portion of the protrusion will be in the lower range of between 5% and 30% where the protrusion has a flat head or flat axial end, and in the higher range of between 25% and 50% where the protrusion has a rounded end or partial spherical end. When the axial extent of the upper protrusion is 50%, the upper portion has a hemispherical shape.

[0097] The axial extent between the base surface and the maximum radial extent plane of the protrusion is a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the protrusion, and the fraction is optionally between 6% and 30% of the maximum radial extent, E, for example, in percentage terms, at 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, 20, 25, 30, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0098] The axial extent of the bulged portion is a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the protrusion, and the fraction is optionally between 5% and 25% of the maximum radial extent, E, for example, in percentage terms, at 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0099] The axial extent of the neck portion is a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the protrusion, and the fraction is optionally between 5% and 15% of the maximum radial extent, E, for example, in percentage terms, at 5, 10, 15, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0100] The radial extent of the neck portion is a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the protrusion, and the fraction is optionally between 90% and 99% of the maximum radial extent, for example, in percentage terms, at 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges

[0101] The radial extent of the radial indentation defining the channel of the neck portion is a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the protrusion, and the fraction is optionally between 1% and 6%, for example, in percentage terms, at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or more, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0102] The protrusion portion or a portion thereof may be a convex annular portion which follows a convex curvature as it extends towards the base surface in the direction of the coupling axis. The convex annular portion may have the shape of a spherical segment having a radius of curvature R, where R is half the value of the maximum radial extent of the maximum radial plane, and an axial extent or height h. The maximum radial plane is usually contained between two smaller radial planes so that the radial extent of the convexly curved portion increases from a first radial extent defined by a first smaller radial plane to the maximum radial extent and then decreases to a second radial extent defined by a second smaller radial plane as the curved portion extends along the direction of the coupling axis, the radial plane extending in a transversal direction or a lateral direction which is orthogonal to the coupling axis.

[0103] The protrusion portion between the base surface and the maximum radial plane may be in the shape of a spherical segment or a truncated cone, i.e., frusto-cone. The axial height between the base surface and the maximum radial plane is optionally between 20% and 85% of R, where R is the radius of the sphere defining the spherical segment, for example, in percentage terms, at 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0104] Where the neck portion of the protrusion portion in abutment with the base surface is in the shape of a spherical segment, the neck portion has a shape of a lower spherical segment and has a convexly curved profile in the radial direction. When the neck portion is so shaped, the neck portion has a smaller radial extent at the base surface and a local maximum radial extent at an axial separation from the base surface.

[0105] The radial extent of the neck portion at the base surface is at a fraction of the maximum radial extent, and the fraction is optionally between 90% and 98.8%, for example, in percentage terms, at 90, 92, 94, 96, 98, 98.8, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0106] The local maximum radial plane is elevated above the base surface and a radial plane having a smaller radial extent is in abutment with the base surface.

[0107] The neck portion may taper to join the base surface and joins at a joining angle. The tapering may follow a convexly curved profile, may have a constant slope, or other desired tapering manner. The joining angle is an acute angle which is optionally between 50 degrees and 88 degrees, for example, in degree terms, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 70, 80, 85, 88, or a range or any ranges defined by a combination of any of the aforesaid values and/or ranges.

[0108] The protrusion portion, for example, the bulged portion or the reduced portion, may comprise a cylindrical body or a prismatic body which projects away from the base surface, with a tapered portion formed at a peripheral region in abutment with or in proximity to the base surface.

[0109] A snap connector or the engagement portion of a snap connector herein is axis-symmetrical. An axis symmetrical engagement portion has axis-symmetrical mating feature profiles. An axis-symmetrical engagement portion or connector typically has a circular cross section at an axial defined by the coupling axis of the engagement portion or the connector. In some embodiments, the engagement portion may not be exactly axis-symmetrical but has a square cross-section or a cross-section of a regular polygon having five side, six sides, seven sides, eight side, nine sides, ten side or more. A snap connector herein includes both the axis-symmetrical and non-axis-symmetrical types unless the context requires otherwise.

[0110] On the other hand, the radial extent of a protrusion portion of a press-fit or interference-fit connector without snap-fit features is substantially uniform in the axial direction.

[0111] A female connection portion comprises a coupling receptacle for reception of a protrusion portion of a corresponding male connector. More specifically, a female connection portion comprises a coupling receptacle, or receptacle in short, for closely-fitted reception of a protrusion portion of a corresponding male connection portion to facilitate snap engagement. When a male engagement portion is in closely fitted engagement with a female engagement portion, the male engagement portion is received by the receptacle and at least a portion of the male engagement portion projects into and is received inside the receptacle compartment.

[0112] The receptacle of a female connector comprises a receptacle compartment and a receptacle entry through which an axial end of a protrusion of a corresponding male connection portion is to enter the receptacle compartment. The receptacle comprises an inner peripheral wall which defines the receptacle compartment, the receptacle entry, as well as a receptacle entry plane and an entry aperture at the receptacle entry. The entry aperture is typically on an axial end of the receptacle and is also referred to as an access aperture and the receptacle entry plane is orthogonal to the coupling axis. The entry aperture defines a minimum radial clearance of the receptacle which in turn defines a maximum radial extent of the protrusion or the bulged portion of a protrusion that can enter into the receptacle without radial deformation of the receptacle entry or the male connector protrusion. The coupling receptacle extends in the axial direction away from the receptacle entry to define an axial extent of the receptacle compartment. The axial extent of a receptacle, as measured along the coupling axis of the receptacle between the axial ends of the inner peripheral wall which defines the receptacle compartment, defines the height of the receptacle. The inner peripheral wall of the receptacle defines the shape, configuration, dimensions of the receptacle compartment. The receptacle may be in the form of a receptacle portion, a receptacle body, or a receptacle member. In some embodiments, a female connector comprises a peripheral wall which defines the receptacle. The peripheral wall may comprise an inner peripheral wall which defines the receptacle compartment and the receptacle compartment radial profile and an outer peripheral wall which surrounds the inner peripheral wall and defines the outer periphery of the receptacle. The peripheral wall may be a continuous wall or a non-continuous wall. In some embodiments, the outer peripheral wall of the receptacle depends from the panel portion and has a substantial portion of its axial extent which is spaced apart from or independent of the panel portion. For example, the outer peripheral wall may have, in percentage terms of its axial extent or of the maximum radial extent of the receptacle compartment, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 90, 95, 100, or a range or any ranges defined by a combination of any of the aforesaid values and/or ranges which is laterally separated from the panel portion so that there is radial spatial separation between the outer peripheral wall and the panel portion from which the receptacle depends. In some embodiments, a minor portion of the axial extent of the receptacle is spaced apart from or independent of the panel portion, and the minor portion, in percentage terms of its axial extent or of the maximum radial extent of the receptacle compartment, is 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 9, 10, or a range or any ranges defined by a combination of any of the aforesaid values and/or ranges.

[0113] A female snap connector comprises a snap-fit receptacle which is shaped and dimensioned for closely fitted engagement of a male snap engagement portion. When a female snap connector and a male snap connector are in closely-fitted snap engagement, the male engagement portion is subject to a small radially inward compression force exerted radially inwardly by the receptacle functioning as a female engagement portion, and the receptacle is subject to a small radial outward expansion force which is exerted radially outwardly by the male engagement portion.

[0114] The receptacle compartment of a female connector has a radial profile which is defined by the inner peripheral wall of the receptacle. The radial profile of the receptacle compartment of a female snap connector is characterized by a non-uniform radial extent in the axial direction, and typically includes a bulged radial profile of a bulged receptacle portion and a reduced radial profile of a reduced receptacle portion in the axial direction. The terms receptacle, coupling receptacle, snap-fit receptacle, receptacle portion, receptacle body, and receptacle member are interchangeably used herein unless the context requires otherwise.

[0115] The entry aperture is on or at one axial end of the receptacle and is an annular aperture which provides access for a male engagement portion so that a male engagement portion can enter into the receptacle compartment through that axial end and through the entry aperture and then enter into closely-fitted engagement with the receptacle. A receptacle may have an entry aperture on each of the two axial ends of the receptacle to facilitate entry or exit of a protrusion portion of a male connector from a selected one of the two axial ends.

[0116] The entry aperture has or may have a radial clearance which is smaller or slightly smaller than the maximum radial extent of a male engagement portion, and the maximum radial extent of a male engagement portion is typically located on the bulged portion of the male connector protrusion. A smaller radial clearance at the entry aperture than the maximum radial extent of the bulged portion usually means a radial constriction at the axial end of the receptacle. The bulged portion of a male connection means would need to overcome the radial constriction in order to enter the receptacle compartment from outside the receptacle compartment or to leave the receptacle if already inside the receptacle compartment. A minimum radial clearance extent of the receptacle is defined at the entry aperture.

[0117] A receptacle may comprise a first receptacle portion having a first receptacle compartment and a second receptacle portion having a second receptacle compartment. The first receptacle portion and the second receptacle portion are in series and are aligned on the coupling axis. The first receptacle portion has an axial end comprising the receptacle entry and the second receptacle portion extends axially away from the first receptacle portion and the receptacle entry. The first receptacle portion is to surround and snap on the neck portion of a corresponding male engagement portion upon snap engagement therewith and is referred to as a neck receptacle portion. The neck receptacle portion is also referred to as a neck portion engagement portion and comprises a neck receptacle compartment. The second receptacle portion is to surround and snap on the head portion of a corresponding male engagement portion upon snap engagement therewith and is referred to as a head receptacle portion. The head receptacle portion is also referred to as a head portion engagement portion and comprises a head receptacle compartment. The two receptacle portions, namely, the head receptacle portion and the neck receptacle portion, may be separate or integrally formed.

[0118] The engagement portion of a receptacle portion is an annular receptacle portion defined by a portion of the inner peripheral wall of the receptacle defining the receptacle portion. The engagement portion may be in the embodiments of an annular bracket portion, an annular bracket member, an annular collar portion, or an annular collar member. In some embodiments, a receptacle portion has an access aperture at each of its axial ends to facilitate entry and/or exit of a matched male engagement portion at either axial end.

[0119] In some embodiments, the receptacle may have only one receptacle portion, for example, only the head receptacle portion or only the neck receptacle portion.

[0120] The head receptacle portion comprises a head receptacle compartment which is adapted for making snap engagement with the head portion of a corresponding male connector, and has a radial clamping profile which is complementarily shaped and sized to match the radial profile of the bulged portion of the corresponding male connector.

[0121] The head receptacle portion is an enlarged receptacle portion, also referred to as a widened receptacle portion, or an enlarged portion in short. The head receptacle portion has a head receptacle portion radial profile which is an enlarged radial profile compared to the neck receptacle portion radial profile. The head receptacle portion radial profile extends in a peripheral direction to define an annular inner periphery of the head receptacle portion. The head receptacle portion radial profile and the inner periphery of the head receptacle portion is defined by a portion of the inner peripheral wall of the receptacle defining the head receptacle portion. The engagement portion of a head receptacle portion is typically in the form of an annular clamp or clip, and in example embodiments in the form of an annular bracket portion, an annular bracket member, an annular collar portion, or an annular collar member. The maximum radial clearance extent of the receptacle is usually defined in the head receptacle portion.

[0122] The portion of the inner peripheral wall of the receptacle defining the head receptacle portion and the head receptacle compartment has a radial profile of an indentation or a recess, with the indentation or access inwardly facing the coupling axis. The indentation has a radial profile which defines the head receptacle portion radial profile. The radial profile may be angled or curved and extends peripherally in a peripheral direction, that is annularly, to define the head receptacle compartment and its boundary. The peripheral direction is orthogonal to the coupling axis and is a tangential direction to a circle defining the annular clamp or clip. The annular clamp or clip is in the form of an annular channel which surrounds a core portion of the head receptacle portion. The head receptacle portion defines a female snap engagement portion of the female connection portion, and is referred to as a first engagement portion or a first snap engagement portion of the receptacle, or of the female connection portion, for ease of reference. The terms “channel” and “groove” are used interchangeably herein.

[0123] The head receptacle compartment has a maximum radial extent defining a maximum radial clearance and a maximum radial plane at an axial level referred to a maximum radial extent level. The maximum radial plane is also a maximum transversal plane. The radial extent of the head receptacle portion decreases as the axial distance from the maximum radial extent level increases. Specifically, the radial extent of the head receptacle portion decreases as the head receptacle portion extends away from the maximum radial extent level and towards the receptacle entry, and the radial extent of the head receptacle portion decreases as the head receptacle portion extends away from the maximum radial extent level and away from the receptacle entry. Therefore, the head receptacle portion tapers to narrow as its axial distance away from the maximum radial extent plane or the maximum radial extent level increases. Conversely, the head receptacle portion flares to widen as it extends axially towards the maximum radial extent plane or the maximum radial extent level.

[0124] The axial end of the head receptacle portion distal to the receptacle entry may be flat or curved, for example, may have the shape of a spherical cap or other desired shapes.

[0125] The neck receptacle portion comprises a neck receptacle compartment which is adapted for making snap engagement with the neck portion of a corresponding male connector and has a radial clamping profile which is complementarily shaped to match the radial profile of the neck portion of the corresponding male connector.

[0126] The neck receptacle portion is a reduced receptacle portion compared to the head receptacle portion radial profile. The neck receptacle portion is a reduced receptacle portion, since it has a neck receptacle portion radial profile which is smaller than the radial profile of the head receptacle portion radial profile. The reduced receptacle portion is also referred to as a narrowed receptacle portion, or a reduced portion in short. The neck receptacle portion radial profile is defined by a portion of the inner peripheral wall of the receptacle which defines the neck receptacle portion and the inner periphery of the neck receptacle portion. The neck receptacle portion radial profile extends in a peripheral direction to define an annular inner periphery of the neck receptacle portion. The portion of the inner peripheral wall of the receptacle which defines the neck receptacle portion and the neck receptacle compartment has a radial profile of an indentation or a recess, and the indentation or access is inwardly facing the coupling axis and the centre of the maximum radial plane of the head receptacle portion. The indentation has a radial profile which is or which defines the neck receptacle portion radial profile. The radial profile may be angled or curved and extends peripherally in a peripheral direction, that is annularly, to define a neck receptacle compartment and its boundary.

[0127] The engagement portion of an example neck receptacle portion is in the form of an annular clamp or an annular clip which surrounds and defines the neck receptacle portion. The annular clamp or clip may have a radial profile of a clamping bracket or a clamping collar. The neck receptacle portion in exemplary embodiments is in the form of an annular bracket portion, an annular bracket member, an annular collar portion, or an annular collar member. The terms “bracket” and “collar” are interchangeably used herein and shall bear the same meaning unless the context requires otherwise. A clamping bracket herein is an inclined bracket having a recess or indentation facing the coupling axis and the centre of the maximum radial plane of the head receptacle portion. The bracket extends peripherally in a peripheral direction to define a neck receptacle compartment portion and its boundary. The peripheral direction is orthogonal to the coupling axis and is a tangential direction to a circle defining the annular clamp or clip. The neck receptacle portion defines a female snap engagement portion of the female connection portion, and is referred to as a second engagement portion or a second snap engagement portion of the receptacle, or of the female connection portion, for ease of reference. This second engagement means, similar to the first engagement means, is a retention portion defining a female retention means. The minimum radial clearance extent of the receptacle is usually defined in the neck receptacle portion.

[0128] The reduced receptacle portion has a local maximum radial extent defining a local maximum radial plane at an axial level referred to a local maximum radial extent level. The local maximum radial plane is also a local maximum transversal plane. The radial extent of the neck receptacle compartment decreases as the axial distance away from the local maximum radial extent level towards the receptacle entry increases. Specifically, the radial extent of the neck receptacle compartment decreases as the neck receptacle compartment extends away from the local maximum radial extent level and towards and joins the receptacle entry. The neck receptacle compartment is a tapered receptacle portion which tapers to narrow as it extends axially towards the receptacle entry. Conversely, the neck receptacle compartment flares to widen as it projects axially away from the receptacle entry.

[0129] The tapered entry end of the neck receptacle portion is optionally shaped and sized to operate as an engagement portion, or more specifically a male engagement portion, for engaging with or snap on the narrowed neck portion of the corresponding male connection portion, for example, by wedged engagement. Therefore, this tapered entry end be regarded as a third snap engagement portion of the receptacle.

[0130] The tapering may follow a curve, for example, a concave curve, a straight slope or other desired profiles without loss of generality.

[0131] The receptacle of a female connection portion is adapted to accommodate the protrusion of a male connection portion such that when two building blocks having matched connection means are stacked and their matched corresponding connection means in releasable engagement, the corresponding connection surfaces of the building blocks are in flush abutment and even contact. To meet the accommodation requirements, the axial end or ceiling of the receptacle compartment which is distal to the entry end would need to be at an axial level sufficient to accommodate the protrusion.

[0132] Where the entry end of the receptacle is at the axial level of the connection surface, as is usually the case, the ceiling end of the receptacle would be at an axial level corresponding to the axial extent of the protrusion from the connection surface, unless the ceiling end is an open end that allows the protrusion to pass through. In general, the axial extent of the receptacle compartment is a fraction of the maximum radial extent, E, of the protrusion or of the receptacle, and the fraction is optionally between 15% and 80%, for example, in percentage terms, at 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, or a range or any ranges defined by a combination of any of the aforesaid values and/or ranges. Typically, the axial extent will be in the higher range of between 50% and 80% where the protrusion has a rounded end or partial spherical end and in the lower range of 15% and 60% where the protrusion has a flat head or flat axial end.

[0133] A head receptacle portion which is adapted to snap on the bulged portion has a radial clamping profile which is complementarily shaped to match the radial profile of the bulged of the head portion.

[0134] In order to provide sufficiently effective snap griping on the bulged portion, the axial extent of the radial clamping profile of the head receptacle portion, which is determined by the radial profile of the annular bracket, would be comparable to the axial extent of the bulged portion of the corresponding male engagement portion. In general, the axial extent of the head receptacle portion would be a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the bulged portion, and the fraction would optionally be between 10% and 40%, for example, in percentage terms, at 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0135] The head receptacle portion is optionally symmetrical about a radial plane of symmetry, which corresponds to the maximum radial extent plane of the bulged receptacle portion or the bulged portion of the protrusion on snap engagement. The plane of symmetry divides the head receptacle portion into symmetrical halves about the radial plane of symmetry. The head receptacle portion tapers to narrow as it extends axially away from the maximum radial extent plane to taper. The head receptacle portion optionally follows a concave profile or has a concave radial profile as it extends axially to taper. Optionally, the concave profile follows or matches the convex profile of the corresponding bulged portion. In some embodiments, the concave profile follows a concave curvature having a diameter equal to or comparable to the maximum radial extent of the bulged portion. The tapering may follow a straight slope or other desired profiles without loss of generality. The concave curve may have a radius of curvature comparable to half the maximum radial extent E.

[0136] The radial extent of the head receptacle portion at an axial end of the head receptacle portion where symmetry about the plane of symmetry ends is a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the bulged receptacle portion, and the fraction would optionally be between 95% and 99%, for example, in percentage terms, at 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0137] The neck receptacle portion has an axial extent to provide snap grip on the neck portion of the male connector. The axial extent is a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the bulged portion which, in percentage terms, is optionally between 2 and 10, for example, at 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or a range or any ranges defined by a combination of any of the aforesaid values and/or ranges.

[0138] In order to provide sufficient or effective snap clamping on the neck portion of the protrusion, the axial extent of the radial clamping profile of the neck receptacle portion, which is the radial profile of the annular bracket, would be comparable to the axial extent of the neck portion of the corresponding male engagement portion. In general, the axial extent of the neck receptacle portion would be a fraction of the radial extent of the neck portion at the base surface, and the fraction would optionally be between 10% and 35%, for example, in percentage terms, at 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 35, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0139] The axial extent of the neck receptacle portion can be expressed as a fraction of the maximum radial extent of the receptacle, and the fraction would optionally be between 1.9% and 5%, for example, in percentage terms, at 1.9, 2, 2.0, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.0, 4.5, 5, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0140] The neck receptacle portion tapers to narrow as it extends axially towards the access aperture to define a narrowed access aperture to facilitate snap fit.

[0141] As a result of the tapering, the access aperture at the tapered axial end of the neck receptacle portion has a radial extent which is a fraction of the maximum radial extent of clearance of the internal compartment of the receptacle, and the fraction is optionally between 85% and 96%, for example, in percentage terms, at 85, 90, 95, 96, or a range or any ranges formed by a combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0142] As a result of the tapering, the inner peripheral wall of the neck receptacle portion is at an inclination angle to a radial plane at the access aperture axial end of the neck receptacle portion. The inclination angle is optionally between 50 degrees and 88 degrees, for example, in degree terms, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 70, 80, 85, 88, or any range or ranges defined by a combination of any of the aforesaid values and/or ranges. Preferably, the inclination angle corresponds to the joining angle to facilitate closely fitted engagement between the neck receptacle portion and the neck portion.

[0143] Where the receptacle comprises both the neck receptacle portion and the head receptacle portion, both the neck receptacle portion and the head receptacle portion may be defined by an integrally formed peripheral wall of the receptacle, and the axial extent of the peripheral wall of the receptacle would optionally be between 30% and 85% of R, for example, in percentage terms, at 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, or a range or any ranges defined by a combination of any of the aforesaid values and/or ranges.

[0144] A building block is disclosed. The building block comprises a top wall, the top wall having a boundary delimiting a top wall upper surface and a top wall lower surface, a bottom end, a peripheral wall extending orthogonally from the boundary to define the bottom end and comprising a peripheral wall inner surface and a peripheral wall outer surface, the peripheral wall cooperating with the top wall to define a main block body and the peripheral wall inner surface cooperating with the top wall upper surface to define a hollow internal compartment within the main block body, at least one male connector projecting from the top wall, the male connector projecting orthogonally away from the top wall upper surface and extending along a first axis (Z-Z) and in a first axial direction (+Z), the first axis (Z-Z) being a centre axis and an axis of lateral symmetry of the male connector and defining a coupling axis of the male connector. Each said male connector has a corresponding female connector which is formed inside the internal compartment and the female connector extending along a coupling axis which is aligned with the first axis and has an entry end at or near the bottom end, the female connector being a matched connector of the male connector which is shaped and sized to mechanically match and engage with a connector having the shape and size of the male connector, a plurality of partial connectors formed on the peripheral wall.

[0145] Each said partial connector is a partitioned portion of a full connector and having a partitioning surface which divides, delineates or defines the partial connector from the full connector. The full connector is adapted for making coupled mechanical engagement with a matched connector along a coupling axis of the full connector.

[0146] The partitioned portion and the partitioning surface may extend axially along a direction parallel to the coupling axis of the full connector, the coupling axis of the full connector being orthogonal to a portion of the peripheral wall on which the partial connector is formed.

[0147] The partitioned surfaces of the plurality of partial connectors may either be flush with or proximal the top wall upper surface and facing away the bottom end or be flush with or proximal the bottom end and facing away from the top wall upper surface; and the plurality of partial connectors includes at least one partial connector of a male-type full connector and at least one partial connector of a female-type full connector which is shaped and sized to match and engage with the male-type full connector.

[0148] A building block disclosed herein is advantageous. For example, building blocks having different partial connector arrangements can be formed on a basic building block structure, thereby mitigating the number of molds for forming the different building blocks. A basic building structure herein is one comprising the top wall, the bottom end, the peripheral wall, one or a plurality of the male connectors and one or a corresponding plurality of the female connectors.

[0149] By selectively disposing partial connectors on the peripheral wall proximal to the top wall only, such that all the partitioning surfaces facing in the same direction as the top wall lower surface; proximal to the bottom end only, such that the partitioning surfaces all facing in the same direction as the top wall upper surface; or proximal to both the bottom end and the top wall with a first set of partial connectors formed proximal to the top wall only and with the partitioning surfaces of all the partial connectors forming the first set facing in the same direction as the top wall lower surface, and a first set of partial connectors formed proximal to the bottom end only and with the partitioning surfaces of all the partial connectors forming the second set facing in the same direction as the top wall upper surface, different types of building blocks carrying functional partial connectors can be formed from a basic building block structure.

[0150] A building block having integrally formed partial connectors is referred to as a partial building block. A partial building block is one that has partial connectors of both the male-type and the female type integrally formed along its outer side edges. A partial building block carrying partial connectors when assembled with a matched partial building block carrying corresponding and complementary partial connectors will form an assembled building block having full connectors, the full connectors are formed when corresponding complementary partial connectors are aligned with corresponding portioning surfaces aligned and facing each other.

[0151] Therefore, there is also disclosed an assembled building block. The assembled building block comprising a first building block and a second building block detachably attached to the first building block. Each of the first and second building blocks comprises: a top wall, the top wall having a boundary delimiting a top wall upper surface and a top wall lower surface, a bottom end, a peripheral wall extending orthogonally from the boundary to define the bottom end and comprising a peripheral wall inner surface and a peripheral wall outer surface, the peripheral wall cooperating with the top wall to define a main block body and the peripheral wall inner surface cooperating with the top wall upper surface to define a hollow internal compartment within the main block body, at least one male connector projecting from the top wall, the male connector projecting orthogonally away from the top wall upper surface and extending along a first axis (Z-Z) and in a first axial direction (+Z), the first axis (Z-Z) being a centre axis and an axis of lateral symmetry of the male connector and defining a coupling axis of the male connector. Each said male connector has a corresponding female connector which is formed inside the internal compartment and the female connector extending along a coupling axis which is aligned with the first axis and has an entry end at or near the bottom end, the female connector being a matched connector of the male connector which is shaped and sized to mechanically match and engage with a connector having the shape and size of the male connector, a plurality of partial connectors formed on the peripheral wall. Each said partial connector is a partitioned portion of a full connector and having a partitioning surface which divides, delineates or defines the partial connector from the full connector. The full connector is adapted for making coupled mechanical engagement with a matched connector along a coupling axis of the full connector, and the partitioned portion and the partitioning surface extend axially along a direction parallel to the coupling axis of the full connector, the coupling axis of the full connector being orthogonal to a portion of the peripheral wall on which the partial connector is formed. The partitioned surfaces of the plurality of partial connectors are either flush with or proximal the top wall upper surface and facing away the bottom end or flush with or proximal the bottom end and facing away from the top wall upper surface; and the plurality of partial connectors includes at least one partial connector of a male-type full connector and at least one partial connector of a female-type full connector which is shaped and sized to match and engage with the male-type full connector. The first building block and the second building block are attached such that the bottom end of the first building block is in abutment with the top wall of the second building block. The first building block comprises a first set of partial connectors and all the partitioned surfaces of the first set of partial connectors is flush with or proximal the bottom end of the first building block and facing away from the top wall upper surface. The second building block comprises a second set of partial connectors and all the partitioned surfaces of the second set of partial connectors is flush with or proximal the top wall upper surface of the second building and facing away the bottom end, and the first set of partial connectors and the second set of partial connectors cooperate to form a set of full connectors, the full set of connectors comprising both male-type full connectors and female-type full connectors.

[0152] There is disclosed a building block comprising a first coupling surface on a first side of a main body, a second coupling surface on a second side of the main body, one peripheral wall or a plurality of peripheral wall extending between the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface and defining a lateral boundary of the main body. The building block may be for toy, industrial or commercial application.

[0153] The build block comprises one inter-block connector or a plurality of inter-block connectors defining a first coupling direction and the first coupling surface which is formed on the first side of the main body.

[0154] The build block comprises one inter-block connector or a plurality of inter-block connectors defining a second coupling direction and the second coupling surface which is formed on the second side of the main body.

[0155] The build block comprises one partial connector or a plurality of partial connectors which is formed on a peripheral wall.

[0156] The partial connector is an axially split portion of a discrete inter-block connector and comprises an axially extending split surface.

[0157] The discrete inter-block connector has a connector axis defining a coupling direction and the split surface extending along a splitting direction which is parallel to the connector axis of the discrete inter-block connector.

[0158] The inter-block connector on the first coupling surface and the inter-block connector on the second coupling surfaces are compatible inter-block connectors having mating features of compatible mating feature dimensions.

[0159] In general, an inter-block connector has a connector axis which defines a coupling direction. To facilitate inter-block connection, a building block having an inter-block connector and a counterpart building block having a matched inter-block connector are brought towards each other with the connector axes and coupling surfaces of the pair of matched inter-block connectors aligned until the pair of matched inter-block connectors or the corresponding coupling surfaces of the building blocks are in close-fitted engagement. When the corresponding coupling surfaces of the building blocks are in close-fitted or tight-fitted engagement, the building blocks are in interconnection, or more exactly, close-fitted or tight-fitted mechanical interconnection.

[0160] The inter-block connectors are adapted for releasable or detachable inter-connection of building blocks. To facilitate tight yet releasable inter-connection, the inter-block connectors are preferable snap-fit connectors. To facilitate flexible inter-block connection, the inter-block connectors are preferably annular snap connectors, for example, cylindrical annular snap connectors or spherical annular snap connectors. An annular snap connector has a center axis which is also the connector axis which defines its coupling direction and has circular symmetry about its connector axis.

[0161] When two building blocks having partial connectors of the same gender and compatible mating feature sizes are interconnected to form a building block sub-assembly such that the corresponding partial connectors are paired up, a discrete inter-block connector is formed. When the corresponding partial connectors are paired up, the adjacent building blocks in coupled engagement, their split surfaces are opposite facing and in abutment or in proximal juxtaposition.

[0162] A discrete connector formed by interconnection of adjacent building blocks provides additional sophistication and flexibility to building blocks, as well as a useful choice to the public. For example, a third building block may be attached to the building block assembly with its coupling surface not flush with the coupling surface of a component building block of the building block sub-assembly.

[0163] The one inter-block connector or the plurality of inter-block connectors defining the first coupling direction and the first coupling surface on the first side of the main body is or comprises a first inter-block connector having a first connector axis, and the one inter-block connector or the plurality of inter-block connectors defining the second coupling direction and the second coupling surface on the second side of the main body is or comprises a second inter-block connector having a second connector axis. The first connector axis and the second connector axis are axis aligned. The first inter-block connector and the second inter-block connector are compatible inter-block connectors having compatible mating feature size or dimensions. The first inter-block connector and the second inter-block connector may have same or opposite mating feature gender. For example, the first inter-block connector may be a male-type or female-type inter-block connector, and the second inter-block connector may be a male-type or female-type inter-block connector. When the inter-block connectors have compatible mating feature sizes or dimensions and opposite mating feature genders, the inter-block connectors are complementary and matched counterpart inter-block connectors.

[0164] When two building blocks having complementary and matched counterpart connectors are inter-connected, non-permanent joints that are releasable and detachable and that extend between the two building blocks are formed. As the non-permanent joints need to be releasable and detachable and yet must be robust enough to maintain structural integrity of a building assembly formed by the building blocks, the inter-block connectors are preferably snap connectors, which are also known as snap-fit connectors.

[0165] In some embodiments, the inter-block connector on the first coupling surface is an integrally formed male-type cylindrical annular connector, the inter-block connector defining the second coupling surface is an integrally formed female-type cylindrical annular connector, and the partial connector is a split portion of an assembled cylindrical annular connector having a characteristic connection axis defining a characteristic coupling direction. The partial connector has a split surface extending along the characteristic coupling direction.

[0166] In some embodiments, the split surface is flush with or in proximity with either the first coupling surface or the second coupling surface and has same facing direction with the coupling surface with which the split surface is flush with or in proximity with.

[0167] In some embodiments, the partial connector is an aligned part of a 3-dimensional array comprising the inter-block connectors on the first coupling surface and/or the inter-block connectors on the second coupling surface.

[0168] In this disclosure, coupled engagement means tight-fit or closely-fit engagement, including, friction fit, press fit, interference fit, and snap-fit engagement.

[0213] Referring to FIGS. 1A to 1G, an example building block 100 of the present disclosure comprises a main body extending between a first side and a second side, a first coupling surface 120 on the first side of the main body, a second coupling surface 140 on the second side of the main body, a peripheral coupling surface 160 extending between and interconnecting the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface, a plurality of coupling connectors formed on the first coupling surface, a plurality of coupling connectors defining the second coupling surface, and a plurality of peripheral connectors formed on the peripheral coupling surface 160.

[0214] The main body comprises a first panel which is on the first side of the main body and a second panel which is dependent from the first panel. The first panel has a first major surface 120a which is an upward facing surface defining the coupling surface and a second major surface 120b which is a downward facing surface. The thickness of the panel is defined by separation distance between the first major surface and the second major surface of the panel. In some embodiments such as the present, the first major surface and the second major surface of the first panel are parallel and the thickness of the first panel is defined by orthogonal separation distance between the first and second major surfaces. In some embodiments such as the present, the thickness of the first panel is substantially uniform. The first panel has an outer boundary which defines the shape of the coupling surface. In some embodiments such as the present, the building block is integrally formed as a single piece, with the first panel and the second panel cooperating to define a rigid, hollow, shell and an internal compartment of the building block.

[0215] The second panel is a peripheral panel which extends downwardly away from the first panel to define the second side of the main body and the second coupling surface. The peripheral panel has an inner surface 160a (or inward facing surface) and an outer surface 160b (or outward facing surface). The outer surface 160b defines the peripheral coupling surface 160 and the inner surface 160a defines the internal compartment of the building block. In some embodiments such as the present, the peripheral panel defines a peripheral wall which follows or extends along the outer boundary of the coupling surface. In this example, the first panel has a rectangular outer boundary and the peripheral wall extends orthogonally downwards along the rectangular outer boundary of the first panel to define a main body having a substantially uniform rectangular outer boundary along the direction of extension. The inner surface of the peripheral wall extends orthogonally downwards from the first panel to define an internal compartment having a substantially uniform rectangular cross-section along the direction of extension. In some embodiments such as the present, the outer surface and the inner surface are parallel and the peripheral panel has a substantially uniform thickness and the cross-section of the internal compartment substantially follows the shape of the first panel. The peripheral panel extends between a first end (or upper end), which is on the first coupling surface, and a second end (or lower end) which is distal to the first coupling surface and which defines the second coupling surface. The separation distance between the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface is defined by the depth of the peripheral wall. In some embodiments such as the present, the peripheral wall has a uniform depth and the first and second coupling surfaces are parallel.

[0216] An example plurality of two coupling connectors is formed on the first coupling surface. The example coupling connectors on the first coupling surface are male-type inter-block connectors 172(176) having their center axes distributed on a distribution axis which is a longitudinal center axis A-A′ of the first coupling surface 120. In some embodiments such as the present, the coupling connector has a circular profile. A lateral spacing is maintained between a coupling connector and a portion of the peripheral wall which is proximal to the coupling connector. In some embodiments such as the present, the spacings between a coupling connector and the proximal portions of the peripheral wall which are parallel are equal. A male coupling connector 172(176) on the first coupling surface 120 comprises a protrusion portion which projects from the first coupling surface 120 and extends in an axial direction which is along the coupling axis.

[0217] An example plurality of two coupling connectors is formed on the second coupling surface. The example coupling connectors on the second coupling surface are female-type inter-block connectors 174 having their center axes Z-Z′ distributed on a distribution axis which is a longitudinal center axis A-A′ of the second coupling surface 140. The coupling connectors on the first and second coupling surfaces are arranged such that a coupling connector on the first coupling surface has a corresponding coupling connector on the second coupling surface sharing a common center axis. A female coupling connector 174 on the second coupling surface 140 is defined by a receptacle wall which projects from the downward facing surface 120b of the first panel and extends axially downwards towards the second coupling surface 140 in an axial direction which is along the coupling axis.

[0218] An example plurality of six peripheral connectors 176, 178 is distributed on the peripheral wall. The peripheral connectors on the peripheral surface comprises male-type and female-type peripheral connectors.

[0219] A coupling connector is an inter-block connector on a coupling surface which is to facilitate detachable inter-block connection between a pair of immediately adjacent building blocks having matched inter-block connectors.

[0220] An inter-block connector herein is a connector for facilitating physical, detachable and fastened interconnection connection between building blocks. To facilitate physical, detachable and fastened interconnection connection between a first building block and a second building block, each building block has a compatible inter-block connector while the compatible inter-block connectors on the building blocks are of opposite mating gender to form a matched and compatible inter-block connector. A matched pair of inter-block connectors means that the inter-block connectors have mating features of compatible mating feature dimensions and mating features of compatible gender, that is, opposite mating gender. A male coupling connector on the first coupling surface and a female coupling connector on the building block of FIG. 1A is an example of a pair of matched pair of inter-block connectors means. The mating features of an inter-block connector are to facilitate detachable fastening. The detachable fastening may be by mechanical insert fit such as friction fit, interference fit or snap fit without loss of generality.

[0221] An inter-block connector herein has a center axis which defines a connector axis and a connection direction, and an associated reference surface which is referred to as a base surface or a connection surface. Each inter-block connector has an axial extent and a transversal extent. The axial extent is measured along the connection direction and with reference to the connection surface. The transversal extent is a dimension measured in a direction orthogonal to the connection axis and intersecting the center axis.

[0222] An inter-block connector has mating features which determine the mating properties and the mating characteristics of the inter-block connector. An inter-block connector may be classified as a male-type inter-block connector or a female-type inter-block connector. Where an inter-block connector comprises a mating portion which is primarily or dominantly a mating protrusion protruding or projecting from a base surface, the inter-block connector is conveniently classified as a male-type inter-block connector, or a male connector in short. Where an inter-block connector comprises a mating portion which is primarily or dominantly a mating receptacle which is inside the main body or below a base surface, the inter-block connector is conveniently classified as a female-type inter-block connector, or female connector in short. An example mating receptacle is defined by a receptacle wall as shown in FIG. 1B. A male-type inter-block connector may comprise ancillary female mating features or ancillary female mating properties and vice versa without loss of generality.

[0223] In some embodiments such as the present, an inter-block connector is axis symmetrical or circularly symmetrical about the center axis. In embodiments where the inter-block connector is axis symmetrical, the transversal extent is the diametric measure or dimension of the inter-block connector, with the center axis defining a center of measurement.

[0224] An inter-block connector on a coupling surface is conveniently referred to as a coupling connector and the coupling surface is the reference surface of the inter-block connector. A coupling connector has a coupling axis and a coupling direction extending along the coupling axis. An inter-block connector on a peripheral surface is conveniently referred to as a mating connector the peripheral surface (also referred to as a mating surface) is the reference surface of the inter-block connector. A mating connector has a mating axis and a mating direction extending along the mating axis. Each one of the coupling axis and the mating axis in substance corresponds to the center axis of an inter-block connector and each one of the coupling direction and the mating direction corresponds to the connection direction of an inter-block connector, for the avoidance of doubt.

[0225] The example peripheral connector is a split portion of an inter-block connector and is referred to as a partial connector herein. A partial connector is an axially split portion of an inter-block connector. A partial connector herein has a characteristic split surface extending in an axial direction defined by the coupling axis to define a characteristic split plane. A partial connector herein is also referred to as a split connector.

[0226] A partial connector has an axial extent and a transversal extent. The axial extent of a partial connector is measured in the same manner as that of a coupling connector, that is, along the connection direction and with reference to a reference surface or base surface, which is the peripheral surface in example embodiments such as the present. The peripheral surface is also conveniently referred to as a mating surface herein. The transversal extent of a partial connector is a dimension measured in a direction orthogonal to the connection axis, intersecting the center axis, and orthogonally with respect to the split surface or the split plane. The transversal extent of a partial connector is a fraction of or is smaller than the transversal extent of that of a coupling connector or an axis-symmetrical inter-block connector.

[0227] In the example building block of FIG. 1A, two male-type partial connectors 176 are formed on a first long side of the peripheral wall, two female-type partial connectors 178 are formed on a second long side of the peripheral wall opposite to the first long side, one male-type partial connectors 176 is formed on a first end of the peripheral wall and one female-type partial connectors 178 is formed on a second end of the peripheral wall opposite to the first end.

[0228] In some embodiments such as the present, a partial connector 176, 178 is laterally symmetrical about an axis of lateral symmetry. The axis of lateral symmetry for a partial connector on the peripheral surface is parallel to the axis Z-Z′ of FIGS. 1E and 1F.

[0229] In some embodiments such as the present, the transversal extent of a partial connector is about half that of the coupling connector and the partial connector is an axially bisected inter-block connector. The axially bisected inter-block connector has a characteristic split plane

[0230] In some embodiments, the transversal extent of a partial connector is less than half that of the coupling connector, for example, between one quarter or one half or between one quarter or one third of that of the coupling connector on the same building block. Where the transversal extent of a partial connector is a fraction of the transversal extent of that of an axis-symmetrical inter-block connector, the transversal extent of a partial connector is the same fraction of the diameter of a circle defining the axis-symmetrical inter-block connector.

[0231] In some embodiments such as the present, the depth (or height) of the peripheral wall is comparable or slightly larger than the transversal extent of the partial connector but is smaller than the transversal extent of a coupling connector.

[0232] In some embodiments such as the present, the partial connector is defined by a single splitting plane. In this example, the splitting plane is a diametrical plane. In some embodiments, the partial connector is defined by a pair of splitting planes, for example, a pair of parallel and spaced apart splitting planes.

[0233] The example plurality of peripheral connectors on the peripheral surface comprises a mixture of male-type and female-type partial connectors. A male-type partial connector is an axially split portion of a male-type inter-block connector and a female-type partial connector is an axially split portion of a female-type inter-block connector.

[0234] The example peripheral connectors on the peripheral surface are arranged such that their split surfaces are aligned. In some embodiment such as the present, the split surfaces are flush with a coupling surface which in this example is the second coupling surface. In some embodiment such as the present, the split surfaces are flush with a coupling surface which in this example is the second coupling surface. In some embodiment such as the present, the center axis of a partial connector intersects with the center axis of a coupling connector. In some embodiment such as the present, the split surface is parallel to the first coupling surface and/or the second coupling surface.

[0235] In some embodiments such as the present, spacing between adjacent coupling connectors on a distribution axis and spacing between adjacent peripheral connectors along a parallel distribution axis is equal.

[0236] A building block according to the disclosure may be integrally molded from materials having a strong rigidity as well as being slightly resilient, for example, from hard plastics such as ABS, PP, PE and PC, metal or other moldable materials.

[0237] A building block according to the disclosure may be integrally molded from rigid and non-resilient materials such as clay, porcelain, ceramics, glass, etc.

[0238] An example building block 10 comprises a main body extending between a first side and a second side, a first coupling surface 120 on the first side of the main body, a second coupling surface 140 on the second side of the main body, a peripheral coupling surface 160 extending between and interconnecting the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface, a plurality of coupling connectors formed on the first coupling surface, a plurality of coupling connectors defining the second coupling surface and a plurality of peripheral connectors formed on the peripheral coupling surface 160, as depicted in FIGS. 10A, 10B and 10C.

[0239] An example plurality of two coupling connectors is formed on the first coupling surface. The example coupling connectors on the first coupling surface are male-type inter-block connectors 1721 having their center axes distributed on a distribution axis which is a longitudinal center axis of the first coupling surface 120. The male-type inter-block connector 1721 has a slightly different physical configuration compared to the male-type inter-block connector 172 but is substantially identical and functionally equivalent in so far as the present disclosure is concerned.

[0240] An example plurality of two coupling connectors is formed on the second coupling surface. The example coupling connectors on the second coupling surface are female-type inter-block connectors 1741 having their center axes distributed on a distribution axis which is a longitudinal center axis of the second coupling surface 140. The female-type inter-block connector 1741 has a slightly different physical configuration compared to the female-type inter-block connector 174 but is substantially identical and functionally equivalent in so far as the present disclosure is concerned. The coupling connectors on the first and second coupling surfaces are arranged such that a coupling connector on the first coupling surface has a corresponding coupling connector on the second coupling surface sharing a common center axis.

[0241] An example plurality of six peripheral connectors 1761, 1781 is distributed on the peripheral wall. The peripheral connectors on the peripheral surface comprises male-type 1761 and female-type peripheral connectors. The peripheral connector 1761, 1781 has a slightly different physical configuration compared to a corresponding peripheral connector 176, 178 but is substantially identical and functionally equivalent in so far as the present disclosure is concerned.

[0242] The descriptions herein above in relation to the male-type inter-block connector 172(176), in relation to the female-type inter-block connector 174, in relation to the peripheral connectors 176, 178, their relationships, configurations functionalities are incorporated herein by reference and applied mutatis mutandis.

[0243] Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10C, the building block 10 comprises a dividing plane which divides the building block 10 into two detachable portions. The dividing plane is parallel to the first coupling surface and intersects the partial connectors on the peripheral surface. As depicted in FIGS. 10B and 10C, the dividing plane partitions the female partial connectors on the peripheral wall into two axially split connector portions each having a transversal extent, a split surface and a split plane. In some embodiments such as the present, the transversal extents of the axially split portions are not equal.

[0244] The two detachable portions are two component building blocks, comprising a first component building block 1100 and a second component building block 1200. The two component building blocks are physically and detachably connected by a plurality of inter-block connectors to form the building block 10, which is also a building block assembly. The inter-block connectors interconnecting the component building blocks 1100, 1200 are building block connectors compatible with the coupling connectors. In some embodiments such as the present, male coupling connectors 1721 are formed on the first coupling surface 120 and compatible female coupling connectors 1741 are formed on the second coupling surface 140 with their center axes aligned with corresponding coupling connectors on the first coupling surface 120.

[0245] The two axially split connector portions comprise a first split connector portion on the first component building block 1100 and a second split connector portion on the second component building block 1200. The first split connector portion is defined by a single split plane, which is intermediate (or more specifically, at about mid-way between) the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface of the building block 10. The split plane of the first split connector portion is on a second coupling surface of the first component building block 1100. The transversal extent of the first split connector portion is substantially smaller than that of the second split connector portion, and is less than ¼ the transversal dimension or transversal extent of the coupling connector or of the inter-block connector. The second split connector portion is on the second component building block 1200 and is defined by two parallel and space apart split planes. The transversal extent of the second split connector portion is substantially larger than that of the first split connector portion, and is larger than ¼ but smaller than ½ of the transversal dimension or transversal extent of the coupling connector or of the inter-block connector. In other words, the transversal extent of the second split connector portion is between less than ½, ½ and ¼ or less than ¼ (or a range defined by combining any of the aforesaid values) of the transversal dimension or transversal extent of the coupling connector or of the inter-block connector. In this example, the split planes of the second split connector portion are on the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface of the second component building block 1200.

[0246] In some embodiment such as the present, the dividing plane intersects a male peripheral connector without splitting, truncating or severing. Referring to FIG. 10A, the male peripheral connector 1761 on a short end of the peripheral wall is integral with the second component block 1200 and projects above the dividing plane. The axial top end of the male peripheral connector 1761 projects beyond the second component building block 1200 and the dividing plane, as shown in FIG. 11A. In other embodiments, the dividing plane intersects a male peripheral connector with splitting, truncating or severing.

[0247] The split planes of the split connector portions are parallel or substantially parallel to a coupling surface or both coupling surfaces. In some embodiment such as the present, the split surface of the peripheral connector, which is a major or the largest split plane among the split planes of the split connector portions, is on the second coupling surface 140 and facing away from the first coupling surface 120 of the building block 10.

[0248] An example building block 20 comprises a main body extending between a first side and a second side, a first coupling surface 120 on the first side of the main body, a second coupling surface 140 on the second side of the main body, a peripheral coupling surface 160 extending between and interconnecting the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface, a plurality of coupling connectors formed on the first coupling surface, a plurality of coupling connectors defining the second coupling surface and a plurality of peripheral connectors formed on the peripheral coupling surface 160, as depicted in FIGS. 11A, 11B, 11C, 11D and 11E.

[0249] The example building block 20 is substantially identical to the building block 10 except that the transversal orientations of the peripheral connectors are turned 180 degrees and the peripheral connectors are arranged such that their split surfaces are on or flush with the first coupling surface, rather than the second coupling surface. Where features of the building block 20 are identical or comparable or equivalent to those on the building blocks 10 and 100 or other example building blocks herein, the description thereon and thereto is incorporated herein by reference and applied mutatis mutandis.

[0250] The building block 20 comprises a dividing plane which divides the building block 20 into two detachable portions. The dividing plane is parallel to the first coupling surface and intersects the partial connectors on the peripheral surface. As shown in FIGS. 11A to E, the dividing plane partitions or truncates the female partial connectors on the peripheral wall into two axially split connector portions each having a transversal extent, a split surface and a split plane; but does not split, truncate or sever a male peripheral connector intersecting the dividing plane. In some embodiments, the dividing plane intersects a male peripheral connector with splitting, truncating or severing.

[0251] The two detachable portions are two component building blocks, comprising a first component building block 1300 and a second component building block 1400, which are physically and detachably connected by a plurality of inter-block connectors to form a building block, which is also a building block assembly. The inter-block connectors interconnecting the component building blocks 1300, 1400 are building block connectors compatible with the coupling connectors. In some embodiments such as the present, male coupling connectors 1721 are formed on the first coupling surface 120 and compatible female coupling connectors 1741 are formed on the second coupling surface 140 with their center axes aligned with corresponding coupling connectors on the first coupling surface.

[0252] The two axially split connector portions comprise a first split connector portion on the first component building block 1300 and a second split connector portion on the second component building block 1400. The second split connector portion is defined by a single split plane, which is intermediate (or more specifically, at about mid-way between) the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface of the building block 20. The split plane of the first split connector portion is on a first coupling surface of the second component building block 1400. The transversal extent of the second split connector portion is substantially smaller than that of the first split connector portion and is less than ¼ the transversal dimension or transversal extent of the coupling connector or of the inter-block connector. The first split connector portion is on the first component building block 1300 and is defined by two parallel and space apart split planes. The transversal extent of the first split connector portion is substantially larger than that of the second split connector portion and is larger than ¼ but smaller than ½ of the transversal dimension or transversal extent of the coupling connector or of the inter-block connector. In other words, the transversal extent of the first split connector portion is between less than ½, ½ and ¼ or less than ¼ (or a range defined by combining any of the aforesaid values) of the transversal dimension or transversal extent of the coupling connector or of the inter-block connector. In this example, the split planes of the first split connector portion are on the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface of the first component building block 1300.

[0253] Referring to FIG. 11D, the male peripheral connectors 1761 on the peripheral wall are integral with the second component block 1400 and projects above the dividing plane. The transversal bottom end of the male peripheral connector 1761 projects beyond the first component building block 1300 and the dividing plane, as shown in FIG. 11D.

[0254] An example building block 30 comprises a main body extending between a first side and a second side, a first coupling surface 120 on the first side of the main body, a second coupling surface 140 on the second side of the main body, a peripheral coupling surface 160 extending between and interconnecting the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface, a plurality of coupling connectors formed on the first coupling surface, a plurality of coupling connectors defining the second coupling surface and a plurality of peripheral connectors formed on the peripheral coupling surface 160, as depicted in FIGS. 12A, 12B and 12C.

[0255] The example building block 30 is substantially identical to the building blocks 10 and 20 except that the transversal orientation of the peripheral connectors is different, that the female peripheral connectors are arranged such that their split surfaces are on or flush with both the first coupling surface 120 and the second coupling surface 140 of the building block 30, and that the male connectors 172(176) on the peripheral surface are inter-block connectors (also referred to as full connector or full inter-block connector) and not split or partial connectors. Where features of the building block 30 are identical or comparable or equivalent to those on the building blocks 10, 20 and 100 or other example building blocks herein, the description thereon and thereto is incorporated herein by reference and applied mutatis mutandis.

[0256] The building block 30 comprises a dividing plane which divides the building block 30 into two detachable portions. The dividing plane is parallel to the first coupling surface and intersects the partial connectors on the peripheral surface. As shown in FIGS. 12A to C, the dividing plane bisects the female partial connectors on the peripheral wall into two axially split connector portions each having transversal extent, a split surface and a split plane. In some embodiments such as the present, the two axially split connector portions of a split female partial connector having an equal transversal extent. In some embodiments, the two axially split connector portions of a split female partial connector having unequal transversal extents.

[0257] The two detachable portions are two component building blocks, comprising a first component building block 1200 and a second component building block 1200, which are physically and detachably connected by a plurality of inter-block connectors to form a building block, which is also a building block assembly. The inter-block connectors interconnecting the component building blocks 1200, 1300 are building block connectors compatible with the coupling connectors. In some embodiments such as the present, male coupling connectors 1721 are formed on the first coupling surface 120 and compatible female coupling connectors 1741 are formed on the second coupling surface 140 with their center axes aligned with corresponding coupling connectors on the first coupling surface.

[0258] The two axially split connector portions comprise a first split connector portion on the first component building block 1200 and a second split connector portion on the second component building block 1300. Each split connector portion is defined by two parallel and space apart split planes. The transversal extent of the split connector portion is less than ½ of the transversal dimension or transversal extent of the coupling connector or of the inter-block connector. In some embodiments, the transversal extent of the split connector portion of a component building block is between less than ½, ½ and ¼ or less than ¼ (or a range defined by combining any of the aforesaid values) of the transversal dimension or transversal extent of the coupling connector or of the inter-block connector.

[0259] In some embodiments such as the present, the partial connector on a peripheral wall has no specific or salient orientation.

[0260] In some embodiments such as the present, the partial connector has a transversal extent near or approaching 90% or more of the transversal dimension or transversal extent of the coupling connector or of the inter-block connector.

[0261] An example building block assembly 40 of the present disclosure comprises a main body extending between a first side and a second side, a first coupling surface 120 on the first side of the main body, a second coupling surface 140 on the second side of the main body, a peripheral coupling surface 160 extending between and interconnecting the first coupling surface and the second coupling surface, a plurality of coupling connectors formed on the first coupling surface, a plurality of coupling connectors defining the second coupling surface, and a plurality of peripheral connectors formed on the peripheral coupling surface 160.

[0262] An example plurality of two coupling connectors is formed on the first coupling surface. The example coupling connectors on the first coupling surface are male-type inter-block connectors 172(176) having their center axes distributed on a distribution axis which is a longitudinal center axis X-X′ of the first coupling surface 120. In some embodiments such as the present, the coupling connector has a circular profile. A lateral spacing is maintained between a coupling connector and a portion of the peripheral wall which is proximal to the coupling connector. In some embodiments such as the present, the spacings between a coupling connector and the proximal portions of the peripheral wall which are parallel are equal. A male coupling connector 172(176) on the first coupling surface 120 comprises a protrusion portion which projects from the first coupling surface 120 and extends in an axial direction which is along the coupling axis.

[0263] An example plurality of two coupling connectors is formed on the second coupling surface. The example coupling connectors on the second coupling surface are female-type inter-block connectors 174 having their center axes Z1-Z1′, Z2-Z2′ distributed on a distribution axis which is parallel to the longitudinal center axis X-X′ of the second coupling surface 140. The coupling connectors on the first and second coupling surfaces are arranged such that a coupling connector on the first coupling surface has a corresponding coupling connector on the second coupling surface sharing a common center axis. A female coupling connector 174 on the second coupling surface 140 is defined by a receptacle wall which projects from the downward facing surface 120b of the first panel and extends axially downwards towards the second coupling surface 140 in an axial direction which is along the coupling axis.

[0264] An example plurality of six peripheral connectors 176, 178 is distributed on the peripheral wall. The peripheral connectors on the peripheral surface comprises male-type and female-type peripheral connectors. More specifically, two male-type partial connectors 176 are formed on a first long side of the peripheral wall 160, two female-type partial connectors 178 are formed on a second long side of the peripheral wall opposite to the first long side, one male-type partial connectors 176 is formed on a first end of the peripheral wall and one female-type partial connectors 178 is formed on a second end of the peripheral wall opposite to the first end.

[0265] Each of the coupling connectors 172(176), 174 and the peripheral connectors 176, 178 is a full or discrete inter-block connector having mating feature dimensions which are equal, comparable or compatible with those of a full or discrete inter-block connector.

[0266] The building block assembly 40 is formed by stacked engagement of an example plurality of the four component building blocks 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, as depicted in FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C and 13D. Each component building block 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 is in itself a stand-alone building block. Each component building block is referred to hereinbelow as a building brick for succinctness and ease of identification. The example building block 40 is formed by stack engagement of, sequentially, a first building brick 1100, a second building brick 1200, a third building brick 1300 and a fourth building brick 1400.

[0267] Each of the building brick 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 comprises a basic block or block body. The basic block is a common block or a common basic block which is shared by the building bricks 100, 200, 300, 400.

[0268] The building block assembly 40 can be considered as a building block assembly formed by snap fastening of two building block assembly components, namely, the example building block assemblies 10 and 20.

[0269] The building block assembly 40 can be considered as a building block assembly formed by snap fastening of a first building block component consisting of the component building block 1100, a second building block assembly component consisting of the building block assembly 30 and a third building block component consisting of the component building block 1400, with the second building block assembly component sandwiched between the component building blocks 1100 and 1400. In some embodiments, the second building block assembly component may be a single piece component building block having features of the component building blocks of the building block assembly 30 integrated.

[0270] A connector, including a coupling connector, an inter-block connector, herein is for making releasable or detachable interconnection between a building block having the connector and another building block having a matched connector. The building block and the other building block will become releasably interconnected when the connector and the matched connector enter into mated mechanical engagement by relative moving along a coupling axis of the connector. The coupling axis defines a coupling direction along which matched connectors are to relatively move in order to enter into mated mechanical engagement. The coupling axis is typically a center axis of the connector which extends along the geometric center of the connector. The connector is typically laterally symmetrical about the center axis. Lateral symmetry herein means symmetry on opposite diametric sides of the center axis and the lateral direction is a direction orthogonal to the center axis.

[0271] Mated mechanical engagement is also referred to as coupled mechanical engagement where the context requires or is appropriate. A connector herein can be a male connector or a female connector. A male connector is also referred to as a male-type connector and a female connector is also referred to as a female-type connector where the context requires. A male connector has mating features which are characterized by a protrusion or a protrusion member. A female connector has mating features which are characterized by a recess or a receptacle. A protrusion (or a protrusion member) and a recess (or a receptacle) have mating features of opposite mating properties. A first connector having a first mating feature dimensions and first mating properties and a second connector having second mating properties opposite to the first mating properties and second mating feature dimensions which are matched with the first mating feature dimensions formed a matched pair of connectors herein.

[0272] In the example building block of FIG. 1, each of the connectors has a circular symmetry about its center axis and the coupling axis is also an axis of circular symmetry of the connector.

[0273] A partial connector herein is an axially partitioned portion of a connector, which is also conveniently referred to as a full connector. A partial connector has the length of a full connector and is formed by partitioning the full connector along its length, that is in a direction parallel to the coupling direction or coupling axis of the full connector. A partial connector has a characteristic partitioning surface which delimits the partial connector from the rest of the full connector.

[0274] In the example building block 100, the partitioning surface is a planar surface containing the coupling axis of the full connector, and the partial connector is a bisected partial connector having a characteristic plane of bisection or bisection plane, the plane of bisection passing through the center axis of the full connector to divide the connector into two equal or symmetrical axial halves, and the connector defining the bisected partial connector has lateral symmetry about the plane of bisection.

[0275] In some embodiments, the partitioning surface is a planar surface parallel to but offset from the coupling axis of the full connector. When the partitioning surface is parallel to and offset from the coupling axis of the full connector, the full connector is axially partitioned into unequal partial connectors.

[0276] In some embodiments, the partitioning surface has a cross-section which is defined by a geometric sector of the connector and extends along the coupling axis or the center axis of the connector. The geometric sector has a characteristic central angle, θ, which is defined between sector arms of the partial connector. The sector arms at an axial level of the partial connector define a plane which is orthogonal to the coupling axis and meet at the coupling axis (i.e., the center axis). The central angle of a partial connector is constant (including substantially constant) and is typically between 60 degrees to 240 degrees, although a range of between 150. When the central angle is 180 degrees, the partial connector has a planar partitioning surface.

[0277] A partial connector or a bisected connector herein can be a male-type partial connector or a female-type partial connector. The partial connectors on the example building block 100 are all bisected connectors and comprise a plurality of male-type partial connectors and a plurality of female-type partial connectors. In general, the building block comprises at least one male-type partial connector and at least one female-type partial connector formed on the peripheral wall.

[0278] A male-type partial connector herein comprises a protrusion member which projects outwardly from the peripheral wall and extends generally orthogonal to the peripheral wall outer surface. The protrusion member has male mating features which are shaped and sized for making mated engagement with a compatible and matched female connector. A compatible and matched female connector comprises a protrusion member receptacle having mating features which are shaped and sized for making mated engagement with a compatible and matched male connector.

[0279] A female-type partial connector herein comprises a protrusion member receptacle which defines a recess or an opening on the peripheral wall. The recess is defined by an opening which is opened at the bottom end and the opening extends upwardly towards the top wall but stops before reaching the top wall. In this example, the opening stops at about half-way between the top wall and the bottom end and has a substantially semi-circular shape and is defined by a semi-circular portion of the peripheral wall. In some embodiments, the opening may have a non-semicircular outline, such as a square, including a rounded square, or a regular polygonal, including rounded regular polygon, outline. The thickness of the peripheral wall defines a partial connector receptacle for receiving a matched and compatible male-type partial connector.

[0280] A male-type partial connector is to combine with a conjugate male-type partial connector to form a male-type full connector. Likewise, a female-type partial connector is to combine with a conjugate female-type partial connector to form a female-type full connector. A male-type full connector (also referred to as a male connector or a male-type connector) and a matched female-type full connector (also referred to as a matched female connector or a matched female-type connector) are a pair of matched connectors which are to enter into mated engagement to hold each other when brought together along a coupling axis. The matched female connector has female mating features, for example, a protrusion member receptacle, which are shaped and sized to complement the mating features, for example, a protrusion member, of the male connector (that is, the matched male connector), to facilitate the mated engagement.

[0281] A matched and compatible male-type partial connector to a female-type partial connector herein means that the male-type partial connector is matched in physical shape and size but has opposite mating features and properties to the female-type partial connector. When one male-type connector is formed by combining a plurality of male-type partial connectors, for example two male-type partial connectors, the resulting combined male connector will be a connector which is matched, complementary and compatible with a corresponding or matched female connector.

[0282] In some embodiments, the top wall of the example building block has a rectangular shape (including substantially rectangular shape) and is formed from one square portion or a plurality of conjoining square portions. Adjacent square portions of the plurality of conjoining square portions are in abutment contact and the square portions are joined to form the rectangular shape of the top wall, a rectangular shape herein includes a square shape without loss of generality. For example, the top wall may be formed from N rows and M columns of square portions, where the rows and the columns are orthogonally arranged and N=1, 2, 3, 4, 5, . . . and M=1, 2, 3, 4, 5, . . . . While the values of N and M can be different and very large, for example, up to 100, the typical value or N and M would be somewhere between 1 and 10, or 1 and 20 for most practical applications. In the example block of FIG. 1, N=1 and M=2 and the top wall is formed of two conjoined and sides aligned square portions.

[0283] The peripheral wall extends downwardly from the rectangular boundary of the top wall and comprises a plurality of four peripheral side walls, and each peripheral side wall extends downwardly and orthogonally from one outer boundary of the top wall. In some embodiments, the top wall, comprising a plurality of conjoining square portions, may have a non-rectangular shaped boundary, for example, a circular shaped, oval-shaped or rectilinear-shape outer boundary and the peripheral wall may follow the shape of the outer boundary without loss of generality.

[0284] Each square portion has four equal orthogonal sides and each side has a one unit length and a pair of diagonals which meet at the square center. A male connector is formed on each square portion and projects orthogonally away from the top wall upper surface along a first axial direction, the first axial direction, or +Z direction, being a direction which is defined by the center axis, or Z-axis, of the square portion which passes the geometric square center of the square portion and extends orthogonally away from the portion of the top wall upper surface defining the square portion. The male connector is centered about the Z-axis so that its center axis coincides with the Z-axis. The male connectors on the plurality of square portions are substantially identical and have same, comparable or identical mating features and mating dimensions.

[0285] Where the top wall is formed from N rows and M columns of square portions, and the rows and the columns are orthogonally arranged, the Z-axes of the plurality of square portions are distributed to form a N×M matrix, with equal spacing or distance between adjacent rows and adjacent columns of the matrix. As each male connector on the top wall is centered on or about the Z-axis or center axis of the square, the separate distances between adjacent male connectors in a row and in a column, measured with reference to the center axes of the adjacent male connectors are the same or uniform.

[0286] The male connector on a square portion has a foot-print which is substantially less that the area of the square portion so that there is substantial unoccupied space or clearance between adjacent male connectors on the top wall, the foot-print being an orthogonal projection of the male connector on the square portion in the −Z direction, the −Z direction being opposite to the +Z direction and is also defined by the Z-axis. In general, the area occupancy ratio of a male connector on the square portion is between 20% and 80% of the total area of the square portion, and the range of area occupancy ratio can be 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or a range or ranges defined by any combination of the aforesaid values. In the example of FIG. 1, the area occupancy ratio of the circularly symmetrical male connector is about 25%, and the male connector has a transversal spread of about 50% of the length of the square portion, taken diametrically across the square center.

[0287] Each male connector on a square portion has a corresponding female connector. The corresponding female connector is formed inside the main body and is axially aligned, or more exactly, co-axially aligned with the corresponding male connector. The female connector is a matched type of connector to the male connector on the square portion. The example female connector comprises a protrusion receptacle which is adapted to make mated engagement with the protrusion of a matched male connector. The protrusion receptacle projects axially downwards to end at or near the bottom end. To be matched with the corresponding male connector which is circularly symmetrical about its center axis, the female connector, and more particularly, the protrusion receptacle is circularly symmetrical about its center axis of coupling axis. In the example of FIG. 1, the protrusion receptacle is defined by a sleeve member, the sleeve member extending circumferentially about the coupling axis to define an axially extending protrusion receptacle. The sleeve member projects downwardly away from the top wall lower surface and extends along in an axial direction or the −Z direction which is opposite to the first axial direction and ends at or near the bottom end.

[0288] A plurality of bisected connectors 176, 178 is formed on the peripheral wall. The plurality of bisected connectors including both male-type and female type bisected connectors. The bisected connectors are disposed such that the planes of bisection of all the bisected connectors are flush with (which term is to include substantially parallel substantially flush) or proximal the top wall upper surface. In addition, the planes of bisection of all the bisected connectors are parallel (which term is to include substantially parallel) to the top wall upper surface or a bottom end plane which is defined cooperatively by the bottom end(s) of the peripheral wall(s). Each bisected connector is disposed such that its center axis or coupling axis is orthogonal to the peripheral wall and intersects with the center axis or Z-axis of the male connector on the top wall or the Z-axis of the female connector inside the main body.

[0289] In the example block of FIGS. 1A and 1B, a plurality of two bisected male connectors is formed on one long peripheral side wall, a plurality of two bisected female connectors is formed on the other long peripheral side wall and projecting orthogonally outwardly from the long peripheral side wall, a bisected female connector is formed on one short peripheral side wall and a bisected male connector is formed on the other short peripheral side wall and projecting orthogonally outwardly from the short peripheral side wall.

[0290] An example building block 200 depicted in FIGS. 2A to 2G comprises a first panel 220, the first panel defining a top wall having a top wall upper surface 120a and a top wall lower surface 220b; a bottom end 240; a second panel 260 defining a peripheral wall, the peripheral wall extending orthogonally from the top wall to terminate at the bottom end; a plurality of male connectors 272 projecting upwardly from the top wall; a plurality of female connectors 274 projecting downwardly from the top wall; and a plurality of partial-connectors 276, 278 formed on the peripheral wall. The first panel and the second panel cooperate to define a main body having a rigid hollow shell, and the rigid hollow shell defines an internal compartment of the example building block. The peripheral wall comprises a peripheral wall inner surface 260a which faces towards the internal compartment, the interior or geometric center of the main body and a peripheral wall outer surface 260b which faces away from the internal compartment, interior or geometric center of the main body. More specifically, the top wall lower surface 220b and the peripheral wall inner surface 260b cooperate to define the internal compartment or the interior of the main body. In some embodiments, the building block is integrally molded from hard plastic materials, for example ABS, PP, PE and PC, metal or other moldable materials having a strong rigidity as well as being slightly resilient.

[0291] A plurality of bisected connectors 276, 278 is formed on the peripheral wall. The plurality of bisected connectors including both male-type and female type bisected connectors. The bisected connectors are disposed such that the planes of bisection of all the bisected connectors are flush with (which term is to include substantially flush) or proximal to the bottom end. In addition, the planes of bisection of all the bisected connectors are parallel (which term is to include substantially parallel) to the top wall upper surface or the bottom end plane defined cooperative by the bottom end(s) of the peripheral side wall(s). Each bisected connector is disposed such that its center axis or coupling axis is orthogonal to the peripheral wall and intersects with the center axis or Z-axis of the male connector on the top wall or the Z-axis of the female connector inside the main body.

[0292] In the example building block of FIGS. 2A and 2B, a plurality of two bisected male connectors is formed on one long peripheral side wall, a plurality of two bisected female connectors is formed on the other long peripheral side wall and projecting orthogonally outwardly from the long peripheral side wall, a bisected female connector is formed on one short peripheral side wall and a bisected male connector is formed on the other short peripheral side wall and projecting orthogonally outwardly from the short peripheral side wall.

[0293] Apart from the differences in the arrangement and disposition of the partial connectors, that is, the planes of bisection of most, if not all, of the bisected connectors of the example block 100 are in the same plane and are all flush with or proximal the top wall upper surface while the planes of bisection of most, if not all, of the bisected connectors of the example block 200 are in the same plane and are all flush with or proximal the bottom end plane defined by the bottom end of the peripheral wall, the features of the building block 200, especially those of the main body, are the same as those of the building block 100, and description on the building block 100 herein, especially the description in relation to the main body is incorporated herein by reference with corresponding numerals increased by 100.

[0294] An example building block 200 depicted in FIGS. 2A to 2G comprises a first panel 220, the first panel defining a top wall having a top wall upper surface 120a and a top wall lower surface 220b; a bottom end 240; a second panel 260 defining a peripheral wall, the peripheral wall extending orthogonally from the top wall to terminate at the bottom end; a plurality of male connectors 272 projecting upwardly from the top wall; a plurality of female connectors 274 projecting downwardly from the top wall; and a plurality of partial-connectors 276, 278 formed on the peripheral wall. The first panel and the second panel cooperate to define a main body having a rigid hollow shell, and the rigid hollow shell defines an internal compartment of the example building block. The peripheral wall comprises a peripheral wall inner surface 260a which faces towards the internal compartment, the interior or geometric center of the main body and a peripheral wall outer surface 260b which faces away from the internal compartment, interior or geometric center of the main body. More specifically, the top wall lower surface 220b and the peripheral wall inner surface 260b cooperate to define the internal compartment or the interior of the main body. In some embodiments, the building block is integrally molded from hard plastic materials, for example ABS, PP, PE and PC, metal or other moldable materials having a strong rigidity as well as being slightly resilient.

[0295] A plurality of bisected connectors 276, 278 is formed on the peripheral wall. The plurality of bisected connectors including both male-type and female type bisected connectors. The bisected connectors are disposed such that the planes of bisection of all the bisected connectors are flush with (which term is to include substantially flush) or proximal to the bottom end. In addition, the planes of bisection of all the bisected connectors are parallel (which term is to include substantially parallel) to the top wall upper surface or the bottom end plane defined cooperative by the bottom end(s) of the peripheral side wall(s). Each bisected connector is disposed such that its center axis or coupling axis is orthogonal to the peripheral wall and intersects with the center axis or Z-axis of the male connector on the top wall or the Z-axis of the female connector inside the main body.

[0296] In the example building block of FIGS. 2A and 2B, a plurality of two bisected male connectors is formed on one long peripheral side wall, a plurality of two bisected female connectors is formed on the other long peripheral side wall and projecting orthogonally outwardly from the long peripheral side wall, a bisected female connector is formed on one short peripheral side wall and a bisected male connector is formed on the other short peripheral side wall and projecting orthogonally outwardly from the short peripheral side wall.

[0297] Apart from the differences in the arrangement and disposition of the partial connectors, that is, the planes of bisection of most, if not all, of the bisected connectors of the example block 100 are in the same plane and are all flush with or proximal the top wall upper surface while the planes of bisection of most, if not all, of the bisected connectors of the example block 200 are in the same plane and are all flush with or proximal the bottom end plane defined by the bottom end of the peripheral wall, the features of the building block 200, especially those of the main body, are the same as those of the building block 100, and description on the building block 100 herein, especially the description in relation to the main body is incorporated herein by reference with corresponding numerals increased by 100.

[0298] An example building block 300 depicted in FIGS. 3A to 3C is an assembled building block which is formed by attaching the building block 200 to the bottom side of the building block 100 with the peripheral walls edge aligned. More specifically, the building block 200 is attached to the building block 100 with the male connectors on the top wall upper surface of the building block 200 in mated engagement with the female connectors formed inside the internal compartment of the building block 100. When the building block 300 is assembled, the protrusion member of the male connector 272 on the top wall of the building block 200 and the protrusion member receptacle of the female connector 176 on the bottom end of the building block 100 are in mated engagement to hold the building blocks 100,200 in place. When in this assembled form, the top wall upper surface of the building block 200 is in abutment contact with the bottom end of the building block 100, and providing structural support to the building block 100. On the other hand, the building block 200 may be on top and the building block 100 on bottom, so that the bottom end of the building block 100 is to provide structural support to the building block 200 above.

[0299] The example building block 300 comprises a top wall 120 of the building block 100, a bottom end 240 of the building block 200 and a combined peripheral wall formed by joining the peripheral walls 160, 260 of the building block 100 and the building block 200 in the Z-Z′ direction, the combined peripheral wall extending orthogonally from the top wall 120 to the bottom end 240.

[0300] The example building block 300 has a main body defined by the top wall 120 and the combined peripheral wall. The main body is in the shape of a rectangular cuboid comprising a rectangular top wall of two-unit length and one unit width and two square ends each having sides of one-unit length. The combined peripheral wall has a height of one unit length due to contribution of half-unit height from each of the building block 100 and the building block 200.

[0301] When the building block 300 is formed, the bisected connectors 176, 178, 276, 278 are correspondingly aligned and cooperate to form full connectors on the combined peripheral wall. The full connectors comprise both male-type full connectors and female-type full connectors are symmetrically about a joining plane, the joining plane being defined by the bottom end of the building block 100 and/or the top wall upper surface of the building block 200.

[0302] In this example, the building block 100, 200 has a half-unit depth or height so that the combined peripheral wall one-unit depth or height and a square end surface. However, it should be appreciated that the half-unit depth or height is used as a convenient and non-limiting example, and the depths or heights of the peripheral walls of the building block 100 and the building block 200 can have other values and can be different without loss of generality.

[0303] In addition, while the top wall is rectangular and has a dimension of two-unit length and one-unit width, it should be appreciated that the top wall can have different outline shapes without loss of generality. For example, the top wall can be oval, circular, rectangular, square, polygonal, or of other geometric or non-geometric shapes.

[0304] While the building block 100, 200 has two male connectors on the top wall, it should be appreciated that any number of male connectors can be formed on the top wall. In general, the number of male connectors can be between 1 and 1000, while a usually range would be between 1 and 10, 1 and 20, 1 and 30, 1 and 40 etc. without loss of generality.

[0305] To facilitate flexible inter-block connection, the male connectors are typically arranged in orthogonal rows and columns, with equal spacing between adjacent male connectors in the same row and in the same column. As the female connectors follow the distribution of the male connectors, the female connectors are also typically arranged in orthogonal rows and columns, with equal spacing between adjacent female connectors in the same row and in the same column, with each female connector inside the internal compartment coaxially aligned with a corresponding male connector on the top wall.

[0306] The building block 100 and the building block 200 share a common basic block structure. The common basic block structure comprises the main body, the male connector(s) on the top wall and the female connector(s) inside the internal compartment of the main body. By manipulating the disposition of partial connectors on the peripheral wall, complementary and matching component blocks 100, 200 carrying partial connectors which are to combine to form full connectors when the complementary and matching component blocks 100, 200 are attached are provided.

[0307] For example, a matched pair of component blocks may comprise a first component block having the basic block structure with the partitioning surfaces of the partial connectors disposed proximal the top wall and facing away the bottom, and a second component block having the basic block structure with the partitioning surfaces of the complementary partial connectors disposed proximal the bottom and facing away the top wall.

[0308] In some embodiments, for example, when the height or depth of the peripheral wall is larger than 1.5 length unlit, partial connectors on a building block having the basic block structure are formed proximal both the top wall and the bottom end. In such a case, the partial connectors comprise a first set of partial connectors having their portioning surfaces proximal the top wall and facing away from the bottom end and a second set of partial connectors having their portioning surfaces proximal the bottom end and facing away from the top wall.

[0309] The example male connector 172, 272 of the building block 100,200 comprises a protrusion member which projects orthogonally away from a base surface 120a. The protrusion member flares outwards as it extends away from the base surface 120a and the flaring portion cooperates with the base surface to form a wedging region, and the protrusion member tapers to narrow after the flaring region until reaching its axial free end. More particularly, the protrusion member curves convexly to flare and then curves convexly to taper as it projects away from the base surface towards its free axial end. In this example, the free axial end of the male connector is formed as a flat head, and the protrusion member is a hollow member having circular symmetry about its center axis.

[0310] The example female connector 176 comprises a sleeve member which defines a protrusion member receptacle. The sleeve member is circularly symmetrical about its center axis and is axially or coaxially aligned with the protrusion member of the corresponding male connector in the same square portion. The sleeve member projects orthogonally away from the top wall lower surface and extends towards the bottom end to define a protrusion member receptacle at or near the bottom end. The protrusion member receptacle is formed at an axial free end of the sleeve member and has an entry aperture at an entry to the sleeve member at the bottom end of the building block. The protrusion member is defined by an internal wall of the sleeve member. The internal wall has a bulged or tulip shape defined by the internal wall to match with the shape and size of the protrusion member of the corresponding male connector. As depicted in FIGS. 1E and 2E, the internal wall flares to expand to form a flared portion as it extends axially upwards towards the top wall and then tapers to narrow as it extends axially away from the flared portion whereby a protrusion member receptacle having a narrowed entry and an enlarged receptacle is formed. More specifically, the internal wall curves concavely as it extends axially upwards towards the top wall to flare to expand and curves concavely as it extends axially upward and away from the flared portion towards the top wall to taper to narrow to form a bulged or tulip shaped protrusion member receptacle.

[0311] In some embodiments, the male connector has a rounded head at its axial free end, for example a dome shaped head or a head having the shape of a spherical cap, and the protrusion member receptacle is correspondingly shaped and sized.

[0312] In some embodiments, the male connector has a cylindrical shaped head without a bulging portion or a converging portion, and the protrusion member receptacle is correspondingly shaped and sized.

[0313] In some embodiments, the protrusion member of the male connector has a solid or non-hollow body.

[0314] While the example female connector comprises a sleeve member to define a protrusion member receptacle, the protrusion member receptacle may be formed by a non-sleeve member, for example, by grid structures formed inside the internal compartment.

[0315] While partial connectors are formed on all the sides of the peripheral wall to provide more flexible inter-block coupling, it would be understood that partial connectors may not present at some of the sides without loss of generality.

[0316] Furthermore, the male-type full connector herein may have features and characteristics which are the same as those of the male connector on the top wall, and the description herein in relation to the male connector in the top wall is incorporated herein to apply mutatis mutandis to the male-type full connector.

[0317] Likewise, the female-type full connector herein may have features and characteristics which are the same as those of the female connector inside the internal compartment, and the description herein in relation to the male connector in the top wall is incorporated herein to apply mutatis mutandis to the female-type full connector.

[0318] While the male connector on the top wall and a corresponding female connector in the internal compartment are matched connectors, the full connectors to be formed by the partial connectors may or may not match with the male connector on the top wall or the corresponding female connector in the internal compartment.

[0319] An example partial building block 400 depicted in FIGS. 4A1 and 4A1 are substantially identical to the building block of FIG. 1A, except that the top wall has a square shape and having four male connectors 472, four correspondingly disposed female connectors, and eight partial connectors disposed on the peripheral wall. The description on the building block 100 is incorporated herein by reference and applied mutatis mutandis, with corresponding numerals increased by 300.

[0320] An example partial building block depicted in FIGS. 4B1 and 4B1 are substantially identical to the building block of FIG. 2A, except that the top wall has a square shape and having four male connectors, four correspondingly disposed female connectors, and eight partial connectors disposed on the peripheral wall. The description on the building block 200 is incorporated herein by reference and applied mutatis mutandis, with corresponding numerals increased by 200.

[0321] An example assembled building block depicted in FIGS. 4C1 and 4C2 is formed from attaching the partial building block of FIG. 4B1 to the bottom end of the partial building block of FIG. 4A1. The description on the building block 300 is incorporated herein by reference and applied mutatis mutandis, with corresponding numerals increased by 200.

[0322] A partial building block 500 of FIGS. 5A1 and 5A2 is substantially identical to the building block of FIG. 1A, except that the male connector has a ball-shaped cap head.

[0323] A partial building block of FIGS. 5B1 and 5B2 is substantially identical to the building block of FIG. 1B, except that the male connector has a ball-shaped cap head.

[0324] FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C show an assembled building block formed form the partial building blocks of FIGS. 5A1 and 5A2.

[0325] A partial building block 700 of FIGS. 7A1 and 7A2 is substantially identical to the building block of FIG. 1A, except that the male connector has a protrusion member having a dome-shaped or rounded axial end,

[0326] A partial building block of FIGS. 7B1 and 7B2 is substantially identical to the building block of FIG. 1B, except that the male connector has a protrusion member having a dome-shaped or rounded axial end.

[0327] FIGS. 8A, 8B show another embodiment of partial building blocks according to the present disclosure, and FIG. 8C depicts an assembled building block formed from partial building blocks of FIGS. 8A and 8B.

[0328] FIGS. 9A1 and 9A2 depict an embodiment of a partial building block according to the present disclosure, the partial building block is substantially identical to that of FIG. 4A1 except that the male connector has a protrusion member having a dome-shaped or rounded axial end, and the description on the partial building block of FIGS. 4A1 and 4A2 is incorporated herein by reference and to apply mutatis mutandis.

[0329] FIGS. 9B1 and 9B2 depict an embodiment of a partial building block according to the present disclosure, the partial building block is substantially identical to that of FIG. 4B1 except that the male connector has a protrusion member having a dome-shaped or rounded axial end, and the description on the partial building block of FIGS. 4B1 and 4B2 is incorporated herein by reference and to apply mutatis mutandis.

[0330] While the disclosure has been made with reference to examples and embodiments, the examples and embodiments are non-limiting and shall not be used to restrict the scope of disclosure.

[0331] Each of the connectors 13, 15, 17 of the building block assembly 40 has a connector portion which defines an engagement means. Each connection portion has a coupling axis and the coupling axis defines a coupling direction which is along the coupling axis. The coupling axis of a connector is orthogonal to the surface on which the connector is formed.

[0332] The building block assembly 40 comprises a substantially rectangular main body which is defined by cooperation of the first surface, the second surface and the peripheral surface. The example first surface 12 is a rectangular surface which faces in the coupling directions of the connectors 13. The example connectors 13 on the first surface 12 are male connectors each of which projects axially away from the first surface and extends along a first coupling direction defined by its coupling axis. The coupling axes and the coupling directions of the connectors 13 on the first surface collectively or cooperate to define a first connection direction of the first surface, which is a first connection surface or a first coupling surface.

[0333] The example second surface 14 is a rectangular surface which faces in the coupling directions of the connectors 15. The example connectors 15 on the second surface 14 are female connectors each of which comprises a connector receptacle which retracts axially below the second surface 14 and extends along a second coupling direction defined by its coupling axis. The coupling axes and the coupling directions of the connectors 15 on the second surface collectively or cooperate to define a second connection direction of the second surface, which is a second connection surface or a second coupling surface. The second coupling direction is opposite to the first coupling direction and the first connection direction is opposite to the second connection direction. The example second surface has same peripheral dimensions as the first surface and has its short and long sides aligned with corresponding short and long sides of the first surface, but is opposite facing to the first surface. In other words, the second surface is an orthogonal projection of the first surface in the second connection direction.

[0334] The peripheral surface 16 interconnects the first surface 14 and the second surface 16 to define the side surfaces and the rectangular main body. The example peripheral surface 16 comprises a first lateral side surface 16A which is on a first short side of the rectangular main body, a second lateral surface 16B which is on a second short side of the rectangular main body and which is opposite facing to and parallel with the first lateral surface, a third lateral surface 16C which is on a first long side of the rectangular main body, a fourth lateral surface 16D which is on a second long side of the rectangular main body and which is opposite facing to and parallel with the third lateral surface.

[0335] The connectors 13 on the first surface 12 are distributed along a first distribution axis X-X′. The first distribution axis is on a middle line or a bisection line of the first surface 12 and is parallel to the long side. The connectors 15 on the second surface are distributed along a second distribution axis. The second distribution axis is on a middle line or a bisection line of the second surface and is parallel to the long side. The first and second distribution axes cooperate to define a long bisection plane which bisects the rectangular main body into two long halves. This long bisection plane will be referred to as a first long bisection plane for ease of identification.

[0336] The connector 17A on the first lateral surface is a male connector having a protrusion portion which projects orthogonally away from the first lateral surface and away from the main body and along its coupling axis. The coupling axis of the connector 17A passes through the center of the first lateral surface and is parallel to the first distribution axis. The coupling axis of the connector 17A is on the first long bisection plane and the connector 17A is laterally symmetrical about the long bisection plane which is defined by the first and second distribution axes. In other words, the long bisection plane is a plane of symmetry of the connector 17A. The connector 17A is symmetrical about a bisection plane which is parallel to the first surface and which bisects the first lateral surface 16A into two equal halves, namely an upper half extending between the first surface and the bisection plane and a lower half extending between the bisection plane and the second surface. This bisection plane is also a long bisection and will be referred to as a second long bisection plane for ease of identification. The second long bisection plane bisects the main body into two equal long halves, namely a first long-half (or upper long-half) extending between the first surface and the bisection plane and a second long-half (or lower long-half) extending between the bisection plane and the second surface. The coupling axis of the connector 17A is on the second long bisection plane. The example connector 17A is symmetrical about the first long bisection plane and the second long bisection plane. In this example, the connector 17A on the first lateral surface 16A and the connector 17B on the second lateral surface are compatible connectors of opposite or complementary connector gender. In some embodiments, the connector 17A on the first lateral surface 16A and the connector 17B on the second lateral surface are compatible connectors of same connector gender, for example both male or both female.

[0337] The example connector 17B on the second lateral surface is a female connector. The connector 17B includes a connector receptacle which retracts from the second lateral surface and extends into the main body along its coupling axis and along a direction opposite to its coupling direction. The coupling axis of the connector 17B is aligned with, that is, coaxial with, the coupling axis of the connector 17A. Specifically, the coupling axis of the connector 17B passes through the center of the second lateral surface and is parallel to the first distribution axis. The coupling axis of the connector 17B is on the first long bisection plane and the connector 17B is laterally symmetrical about the long bisection plane which is defined by the first and second distribution axes. In other words, the long bisection plane is a plane of symmetry of the connector 17B. The connector 17B is symmetrical about the second long bisection plane which is parallel to the first surface and which bisects the second lateral surface 16B into two equal halves, namely an upper half extending between the first surface and the bisection plane and a lower half extending between the bisection plane and the second surface. The coupling axis of the connector 17B is on the second long bisection plane. The example connector 17B is symmetrical about the first long bisection plane and the second long bisection plane.

[0338] The connectors 17C on the third lateral surface 16C are distributed along a third distribution axis. The third distribution axis is on a middle line or a bisection line of the third lateral surface 16C and is parallel to the long side. The third distribution axis is on the second long bisection plane and the connector 17C is symmetrical about the second long bisection plane. The second long bisection plane divides the connector 17C into two equal halves, namely an upper half and an lower half. The connectors 17D on the fourth lateral surface 16D are distributed along a fourth distribution axis. The fourth distribution axis is on a middle line or a bisection line of the third lateral surface 16D and is parallel to the long side. The fourth distribution axis is on the second long bisection plane and the connector 17D is symmetrical about the second long bisection plane. The second long bisection plane divides the connector 17D into two equal halves, namely an upper half and an lower half. The third distribution axis and the fourth distribution axis are coplanar and each of the third distribution axis and the fourth distribution axis is on the second long bisection plane.

[0339] The example connector 17C is a male connector which projects away from the third lateral surface 16C and away from the main body. The example connector 17D is a female connector which retracts away from the fourth lateral surface 16D and extends into the main body. In this example, the connector 17C on the third lateral surface 16C and the connector 17D on the fourth lateral surface are compatible connectors of opposite connector gender. In some embodiments, the connector 17C on the third lateral surface 16C and the connector 17D on the fourth lateral surface are compatible connectors of same connector gender, for example both male or both female. In some embodiments, the connectors on the third lateral surface comprise both male and female compatible connectors. In some embodiments, the connectors on the fourth lateral surface comprise both male and female compatible connectors. In some embodiments, a connector on the third lateral surface and a connector on the fourth lateral surface sharing a common coupling axis are compatible connectors of opposite connector genders.

[0340] The connectors on the long surfaces, that is, the first surface, the second surface, the third lateral surface and the fourth lateral surface, comprises a first connector group which is proximal the first lateral surface 16A and a second connector group which is proximal the second lateral surface 16B.

[0341] In this example, the connectors of the first connector group are arranged such that their coupling axes cooperate to define a short bisection plane. In other words, the coupling axes of the connectors forming the first connector group are on the short bisection plane. This bisection plane is parallel to the first lateral surface and is orthogonal to the first surface or orthogonal to both the first and second long bisection planes. This short bisection plane, which is referred to as a first short bisection plane for ease of identification, is a plane of lateral bisection of the connectors of the first connector group.

[0342] In this example, the connectors of the second connector group are arranged such that their coupling axes cooperate to define a short bisection plane. In other words, the coupling axes of the connectors forming the second connector group are on the short bisection plane. This bisection plane is parallel to the second lateral surface and is orthogonal to the second surface or orthogonal to both the first and second long bisection planes. This short bisection plane, which is referred to as a second short bisection plane for ease of identification, is a plane of lateral bisection of the connectors of the second connector group.

[0343] The short bisection plane is referred to as a vertical bisection plane when the long bisection plane is referred to as a horizontal bisection plane or vice versa. A long bisection plane and a short bisection plane in this example are mutually orthogonal.

[0344] Each connector has a radial extent along a line of symmetry. The line of symmetry is contained in a plane of bisection which bisects the connector and is orthogonal to and intersects the coupling axis of the connector. The line of symmetry of the connector 13 on the first surface 12 is or overlaps with the first distribution axis X-X′. The first distribution axis X-X′ is also a longitudinal axis of the building block 10. Each connector has a radial extent along a plane of symmetry. The plane of symmetry is a plane of bisection which bisects the connector and is orthogonal to and intersects the coupling axis of the connector. The first long bisection plane or the transversal bisection plane is an example plane of symmetry of the connector 13 on the first surface 12. The first transversal bisection plane is an example plane of symmetry of the connector 131 on the first surface and of the connector 171(176) on the peripheral surface.

[0345] Each connector 13 on the first surface 12 has a longitudinal radial extent along a longitudinal distribution axis X-X′ and a transversal radial extent along a transversal distribution axis orthogonal to and intersecting the longitudinal distribution axis X-X′. The transversal radial extent of the connector 13 is smaller than the transversal extent of the first surface. In the example of FIG. 1A, the transversal radial extent of the connector is about 60% of the width of the first surface 12. The width of the first surface 12 is its transversal extent or its dimension in a transversal direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction defined by the longitudinal distribution axis. The longitudinal radial extent and the transversal radial extent of the connector 13 are equal.

[0346] Each connector 15 on the first surface 14 has a longitudinal radial extent along a longitudinal distribution axis X-X′ and a transversal radial extent along a transversal distribution axis orthogonal to and intersecting the longitudinal distribution axis X-X′. The transversal radial extent of the connector 15 is smaller than the transversal extent of the first surface. In the example of FIG. 1A, the transversal radial extent of the connector is about 60% of the width of the first surface 12. The width of the first surface 12 is its transversal extent or its dimension in a transversal direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction defined by the longitudinal distribution axis. The longitudinal radial extent and the transversal radial extent of the connector 13 are equal.

[0347] The radial extent of a connector is measured with respect to its connection portion and with respect to its coupling axis. For a male connector, the radial extent is an outer dimension of the protrusion body of the connector measured diametrically across the coupling axis. For a female connector, the radial extent is an internal dimension of the receptacle compartment of the connector measured diametrically across the coupling axis.

[0348] In this example, a connector 13 on the first surface 12 has a corresponding compatible connector 14 on the second surface 14 which are couple axes aligned.

[0349] In this example, the connectors 13 on the first surface 12 are compatible connectors of the same gender. In some embodiments, the connectors 13 on the first surface 12 may be of different or opposite genders.

[0350] In this example, the connectors 15 on the second surface 14 are compatible connectors of the same gender. In some embodiments, the connectors 15 on the second surface 14 may be of different or opposite genders.

[0351] In this example, a connector 13 on the first surface 12 and a corresponding compatible connector 14 on the second surface 14 have opposite genders. In some embodiments, a connector 13 on the first surface 12 and a corresponding compatible connector 14 on the second surface 14 have same gender.

[0352] In general, a connector herein is symmetrical about a first plane of symmetry and a second plane of symmetry which is orthogonal to the first plane of symmetry. In general, a connector herein is symmetrical about a first line of symmetry and a second line of symmetry which is orthogonal to the first line of symmetry. The line of symmetry intersects and is orthogonal to the coupling axis. The plane of symmetry contains the coupling axis and is parallel to or orthogonal to a distribution axis.

[0353] In this example, each of the example connectors is an axis symmetrical connector having a connection portion which is axis symmetrical about its coupling axis.

[0354] In this example, each coupling axes-aligned connector pair on the peripheral surface comprises a male connector and a female connector which is a reciprocal connector or a complementary connector to the male connector. Having an axis-aligned reciprocal or complementary connector pair on opposite sides of the peripheral surface is advantageous.

[0355] In this example, the connector on the first surface 12 is a male connector having a substantially cylindrical periphery and a cylindrical axis which is coaxial with the coupling axis.

[0356] In this example, the connector on the second surface 14 is a female connector having a substantially cylindrical peripheral wall and a substantially cylindrical receptacle compartment and a cylindrical axis which is coaxial with the coupling axis.

[0357] In this example, the connectors 13 on the first surface are arranged in a single row or a single file forming an array (an example 1×2 array) and are distributed along a single distribution axis which is the first distribution axis. In some embodiments, the connectors are arranged in an N×M matrix comprising N row and M columns where N and M are natural numbers, and a row, which extends along a row direction, and a column, which extends along a column direction orthogonal to the row direction, are mutually orthogonal.

[0358] Where the connectors on the first surface comprises an example plurality of N×M connectors, the N×M connectors may be distributed in N rows and M columns which forms an N×M matrix. For example, the connectors forming the N×M matrix may be distributed along N distribution axes in the row direction and M distribution axes in the column direction. In some embodiments, the plurality of N×M connectors may be distributed in concentric rows.

[0359] In example where the connectors on the first surface are arranged into N rows, the connectors in a row, or more specifically the coupling axes of the connectors of that row are distributed along a row distribution axis (also referred to as a longitudinal distribution axis) and define a row bisection plane containing the coupling axes of the connectors of that row. Where there is only a single row such as the example of FIG. 1A, the first long bisection plane is a row bisection plane, which is also a longitudinal bisection plane.

[0360] In example where the connectors on the first surface are arranged into M columns, the connectors in a column, or more specifically the coupling axis of the connectors of that column are distributed along a column distribution axis (also referred to as a transversal distribution axis) and define a column bisection plane containing the coupling axes of the connectors of that column. In the example of FIG. 1A, each of the short bisection planes is a column bisection plane, which is also a transversal bisection plane which is orthogonal to the longitudinal plane.

[0361] The terms “row” and “column”, and the terms “longitudinal” and “transversal” herein are relative terms that are used, for example to indicate relative orientations or directions, for ease of identification and do not bear an absolute meaning unless the context requires otherwise.

[0362] For example, where the connectors on a connection surface are arranged into a square matrix of N rows and N columns, there are N longitudinal distribution axes, N longitudinal bisection planes, N transversal distribution axes, and N transversal bisection planes,

[0363] The first surface is an example of a connection surface, the description herein in relation to the distribution of the connectors on the first surface applies to other connection surfaces and the description herein is incorporated herein by reference and to apply mutatis mutandis to other connection surfaces without loss of generality.

[0364] Where a connector or a plurality of connectors is formed on an outward facing surface or an exterior surface of an example building block and the example building block is adapted for making detachable engagement with another building block, which is referred to as a corresponding building block herein, by means of the connector or by means of the plurality of connectors which defines a connection direction along which the example building block is to move relative to the corresponding building block in order to enter into the detachable engagement, and such that the outward facing surface or the exterior surface will be opposite facing and/or in abutment contact with the another building block when the example building block and the corresponding building block are in detachable engagement, the outward facing surface or the exterior surface is referred to herein as a connection surface or a coupling surface.

[0365] In the example of FIG. 1A, each of the first surface, the second surface and the lateral surfaces are a connection surface or a coupling surface.

[0366] An example male connector comprises a protrusion member which projects along its coupling axis. The protrusion member comprises a peripheral wall having an outer peripheral surface. The peripheral wall, or more specifically the exterior surface of the peripheral wall, of the male connector defines the connection portion of the male connector. The connection portion of the male connector has a radial profile as it extends in the axial direction which defines the peripheral profile of the connector portion. The example male connector also comprises an axially extending collar member or sleeve member, as depicted in the Figures. The collar member or the sleeve member projects from a base surface which is a lower panel surface in this example.

[0367] A male connector herein is to enter into closely-fitted engagement with a compatible female connector on another building brick or another building block and the outer peripheral wall of the male connector will be in closely fitted engagement with the interior peripheral wall of the compatible female connector when the male connector is in closely-fitted engagement with a compatible female connector.

[0368] The example connector on the second surface and the example connector on the second surface are compatible connectors.

[0369] A compatible connector herein means a connector having compatible mating feature dimensions and can be a male connector or a female connector.

[0370] A male connector and a female connector are connectors of opposite genders.

[0371] A male connector and a female connector which are compatible herein means they are complementary connectors or reciprocal connectors.

[0372] A male connector herein is for making detachably engagement with a compatible female connector and a female connector herein is for making detachably engagement with a compatible male connector.

[0373] In other words, a connector herein is adapted for closely-fitted detachable engagement with a reciprocal connector or a complementary connector herein without loss of generality.

[0374] The closely-fitted detachable engagement may be by press fit, friction fit, or snap fit unless the context requires otherwise.

[0375] The basic block comprises a first surface 112 on which a plurality of connectors 113 is formed, a second surface 114 on which a plurality of connectors 115 is formed and a peripheral surface 116. The first surface 112, the second surface 114 and the peripheral surface 116 cooperate to define a main body and an internal compartment. The first surface 112 and the second surface are parallel and opposite facing, and the peripheral surface 116 extends between the first surface 112 and the second surface 114 and defines a height or thickness of the main body. A plurality of connector formations is formed on the peripheral surface 116 of the basic block and the connector formations cooperate to form the plurality of lateral connectors of the building block 40, as depicted in FIGS. 13A and 13B.

[0376] In this example, the first surface 112 of the basic block is identical to the first surface 12 of the building block 40, the second surface 114 of the basic block is identical to the second surface 14 of the building block 14, and the peripheral surface 116 comprises a first lateral surface 116A extending orthogonally from a first side of the first surface 112, a second lateral surface 116B extending orthogonally from a second side of the first surface 112 and opposite facing to the first lateral surface, a third lateral surface 116C extending orthogonally from a third side of the first surface 112, and a fourth lateral surface 116D extending orthogonally from a fourth side of the first surface 112 and opposite facing to the third lateral surface. The first surface 12 of the building block 40 is the first surface 112 of the basic block and the second surface 14 of the building block 40 is the second surface 114 of the basic block.

[0377] In the example of FIG. 13A, the first lateral surface 16A is formed by the stacked assembly of the first lateral surfaces 116A of the building bricks 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, the second lateral surface 16B is formed by the stacked assembly of the second lateral surfaces 116B of the building bricks 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, the third lateral surface 16C is formed by the stacked assembly of the third lateral surfaces 116C of the building bricks 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, and the fourth lateral surface 16D is formed by the stacked assembly of the forth lateral surfaces 116D of the building bricks 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400.

[0378] A plurality of connectors 113 is formed on the first surface 112 of the basic block, and the connectors 113 are distributed along a distribution axis. More specifically, the coupling axes of the connectors 113 are distributed along the distribution axis. Each of the connector is symmetrical about a bisection plane, and the bisection plane contains the coupling axes of the connectors 113. The bisection plane containing the coupling axes of the connectors 113 is a longitudinal bisection plane and will be referred to as a first longitudinal bisection plane. Each of the connector 113 is symmetrical about a bisection plane which is transversal to the first longitudinal bisection plane and contains the coupling axis of the connector 113, and this bisection plane is referred to as a transversal bisection plane. The example plurality of connectors 113 on the first surface 112 comprises a first connector 1131 which is proximal to the first lateral surface 116A and a connector 1132 which is proximal to the second lateral surface 116B.

[0379] The connector 1131 which is proximal to the first lateral surface 116A is symmetrical about a transversal bisection plane, which is referred to as a first transversal bisection plane and the connector 1132 which is proximal to the second lateral surface 116B is symmetrical about a transversal bisection plane, which is referred to as a second transversal bisection plane. The first transversal plane and the second transversal plane are parallel and separated by a distance equal to the separation distance between the coupling axes of the connectors 1131 and 1132.

[0380] A plurality of connectors 115 is formed on the second surface 114 of the basic block, and the connectors 115 are distributed along a distribution axis. More specifically, the coupling axes of the connectors 115 are distributed along the distribution axis. Each of the connector is symmetrical about a bisection plane, and the bisection plane contains the coupling axes of the connectors 115. The bisection plane containing the coupling axes of the connectors 115 is a longitudinal bisection plane and will be referred to as a first longitudinal bisection plane. Each of the connector 115 is symmetrical about a bisection plane which is transversal to the first longitudinal bisection plane and contains the coupling axis of the connector 115, and this bisection plane is referred to as a transversal bisection plane. The example plurality of connectors 115 on the first surface 114 comprises a first connector 1151 which is proximal to the first lateral surface 116A and a connector 1152 which is proximal to the second lateral surface 116B. The first longitudinal bisection planes of the corresponding connectors 113, 115 on the first surface and the second surface are coplanar.

[0381] The connector 1151 which is proximal to the first lateral surface 116A is symmetrical about a transversal bisection plane, which is referred to as a first transversal bisection plane and the connector 1152 which is proximal to the second lateral surface 116B is symmetrical about a transversal bisection plane, which is referred to as a second transversal bisection plane. The first transversal plane and the second transversal plane are parallel and separated by a distance equal to the separation distance between the coupling axes of the connectors 1151 and 1152. The first transversal bisection planes of the corresponding connectors 1131,1151 on the first surface and the second surface are coplanar, and the second transversal bisection planes of the corresponding connectors 1132,1152 on the first surface and the second surface are coplanar.

[0382] In this example, the example first connector 113 on the first surface of the basic block is identical to the example first connector 13 on the first surface of the building block 40, and the example second connector 115 on the second surface of the basic block is identical to the example second connector 15 on the second surface of the building block 40. The description on and in relation to the first connector(s) on the first surface and the second connector(s) of the building block 40, including their inter-relationship, their arrangements and their possible variations are incorporated herein by reference, with numerals increased by 100 where necessary or appropriate. For example, each of the connectors 113, 115 has a connector portion which defines an engagement means.

[0383] Each connection portion has a coupling axis and the coupling axis defines a coupling direction which is along the coupling axis. The coupling axis of a connector is orthogonal to the surface on which the connector is formed. In this example, the connector 113, 115 is compatible to the connector 13, 15, 17.

[0384] In the example herein, the peripheral surface has a uniform height or thickness and the main body has a uniform height or thickness, the height or thickness being a dimension in or along the coupling direction of the connector 113 on the first surface.

[0385] In the example herein, the peripheral surface of a building brick has a thickness which is about one quarter of the width of the first surface. A building block formed by stacked engagement of an example plurality of four building bricks has a substantially square first lateral surface 16A and a substantially square second lateral surface 16B which is parallel with and opposite to the first lateral surface 16A and which has the same physical dimensions as the first lateral surface 16A.

[0386] In the example herein, the main body of the example building brick comprises a rigid panel member having an upper surface and a lower surface which is parallel and opposite to the upper surface. An example connector on the first surface is a male connector which projects orthogonally away from the upper panel surface and extends along its coupling axis. An example connector on the second surface is a female connector having a connector receptacle which projects orthogonally away from the lower panel surface and extends along its coupling axis towards the second surface. The female connector is defined by a peripheral wall which extends in a peripheral direction and which extends in the axial direction to define a periphery of the connector receptacle, the axial direction being a direction along the coupling axis of the female connector. The peripheral wall projects from the lower panel surface and has an interior peripheral surface which defines a receptacle compartment of the connector receptacle. The peripheral wall has a substantially uniform radial thickness and the connector receptacle is in the form of a circular collar or a circular sleeve which projects axially from the lower panel surface. The peripheral wall has a free axial end which approaches or which is proximal or flush with the second surface. The free axial end of the peripheral wall is the free axial end of the connector receptacle and defines an entry aperture to the connector receptacle. The peripheral wall, or more specifically the interior surface of the peripheral wall, of the female connector defines the connection portion of the female connector. The connection portion of the female connector has a radial profile as it extends in the axial direction which defines the peripheral profile of the connector portion.

[0387] Each building brick 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 comprises one connector formation or a plurality of connector formations which is formed on the peripheral surface, as depicted in FIGS. 10A-10C, 12A-12C, and 11A-11C. The connector formations are distributed on the peripheral surface 116. The connector formation is a partial connector consisting of a portion of an assembled connector. The connector on the peripheral surface 16 of the building block 40 is an example of an assembled connector.

[0388] The assembled connector has a coupling axis defining a coupling direction and the partial connector has an axial extent along the coupling axis to define height or depth of the partial connector. Where the assembled connector is a male connector, the axial extent defines the height of the protruding connection portion of the male connector. Where the assembled connector is a female connector, the axial extent defines the depth of the receptacle compartment of the male connector. The assembled connector is on a lateral surface of the building block 40 and is for coupling in a lateral direction which is orthogonal to the coupling direction of a connector on the first surface. The assembled connector is also referred to as an assembly lateral connector having a lateral coupling axis which defines a lateral coupling direction.

[0389] The partial connector is laterally symmetrical about a line of symmetry. The partial connector therefor has a symmetrical portion which is symmetrical about the line of symmetry. The partial connector extends along the line of symmetry between a first radial level and a second radial level to define a radial extent of the partial connector. The partial connector has the same periphery as the assembled connector or follows the periphery of the assembled connector between the first radial extent and the second radial extent. The line of symmetry is orthogonal to the coupling axis of the assembled connector and intersects the coupling axis. In the example, the line of symmetry is on a longitudinal bisection plane or a transversal bisection plane of the basic block.

[0390] In the example building block 40, the first building brick 1100 is stacked on the second building brick 1200, with the second surface 114 of the first building brick 1100 in abutment contact with the first surface 112 of the second building brick 1200; the second building brick 1200 is stacked on the third building brick 1300, with the second surface 114 of the second building brick 1200 in abutment contact with the first surface 112 of the third building brick 1300; and the third building brick 1300 is stacked on the fourth building brick 1400, with the second surface 114 of the third building brick 1300 in abutment contact with the first surface 112 of the fourth building brick 1400. In the example orientation of FIG. 13A, the first building brick 1100 is a top building block member of the building block 40, the, the fourth building brick 1100 is a bottom building block member of the building block 40, and the third and fourth building bricks are intermediate building block members of the building block 40.

[0391] A connector 1131 on the first surface 112 and a corresponding connector 1151 on the second surface 114 have their coupling axes aligned and form a coupling axes aligned connector pair. A connector 1132 on the first surface 112 and a corresponding connector 1152 on the second surface 114 have their coupling axes aligned and form another coupling axes aligned connector pair. Usually, the coupling axes of all the corresponding connectors 1131, 1151; 1132, 1152 on the first surface and the second surface have their corresponding coupling axes aligned. The corresponding lateral surfaces 116A, 116B, 116C and 116D are correspondingly aligned to form a building block 10 having a flush peripheral surface 16.

[0392] Each of the example third and fourth building bricks 1200, 1300 is an intermediate building brick. The example intermediate building brick 1200, 1300 comprises a partial connector 117A on the first lateral surface 116A, a partial connector 117B on the second lateral surface 116B, a plurality of partial connectors 117C (comprising 117C1, 117C2) on the third lateral surface 116C and a plurality of partial connectors 117D (comprising 117D1, 117D2) on the fourth lateral surface 116D. The partial connector 117A is a male partial connector. The partial connector 117B is a female partial connector. The partial connectors 117C are male partial connectors. The partial connectors 117D are female partial connectors.

[0393] In this example, a partial connector on one lateral surface of an intermediate building brick and a corresponding partial connector on another lateral surface of the intermediate building brick which is opposite facing the one lateral surface, which are on or sharing a common plane of symmetry, and/or which are along a distribution axis form a pair of corresponding partial connectors.

[0394] In this example, a pair of corresponding partial connectors of an intermediate building brick comprises partial connectors of opposite genders.

[0395] In this example, a pair of corresponding partial connectors of an intermediate building brick comprises partial connectors which are radial level aligned. Partial connectors are radially aligned when their first radial levels are aligned and/or when their second radial levels are aligned.

[0396] In this example, a pair of corresponding partial connectors of an intermediate building brick comprises partial connectors having the same radial extent.

[0397] The radial extent of a partial connector is a measure of its physical dimension in a radial direction along a plane of lateral symmetry of the partial connector, and the radial direction is orthogonal to the coupling axis of an assembled connector which characterizes the partial connector.

[0398] A partial connector 117 on the peripheral surface 116 of an intermediate building brick has a radial extent which is comparable or equal to the thickness of the building brick. The partial connector 117A, 117C of the first intermediate building brick 1200 is a male partial connector which extends from a partial connector base to a partial connector top. The partial connector base of the example partial connector 117A, 117C is flush with the second surface 114 of the first intermediate building brick 200. The partial connector top of the example partial connector 117A, 117C is above or beyond the first surface 112 of the first intermediate building brick 1200. The radial extent of the partial connector 117A, measured between partial connector base and the partial connector top, and along the line or plane of symmetry of the partial connector, is slightly larger than the thickness of the building brick. The example partial connector 117A, 117C is a bisected portion of a connector which is split about a splitting plane containing the coupling axis and parallel to or flush with the first surface and/or the second surface. In this example, the thickness of the building brick is smaller than half of the radial extent of the assembled connector or is smaller than the radial extent of the partial connector. In alternative embodiments, the partial connector 117A, 117C is truncated at another radial level so that the partial connector top is flush with the first surface. In those example embodiments, the partial connector is not a bisected portion of a connector, but is smaller than a bisection portion, and the partial connector is formed by truncating the connector at two truncating planes which are parallel and are separated by a distance smaller than half of the radial extent of the connector, the radial extent being along the line of symmetry of the partial connector. In other embodiments, the partial connector is larger than a bisection portion, and the partial connector is formed by truncating the connector at two truncating planes which are parallel and are separated by a distance larger than half of the radial extent of the connector.

[0399] The example male connector 13, 113 is a basic connector which is used as a reference connector herein for ease of reference. Of course, the example female connector 14, 114 can also be used as a basic connector for use as a reference connector without loss of generality.

[0400] The example partial connector is a split portion of a connector having a peripheral profile which follows the peripheral profile of the connector. A split portion of a connector herein has a characteristic splitting plane which is parallel to the coupling axis of the connector, and is therefore a longitudinal split portion or an axial split portion of the connector. The peripheral profile of the connector is a characteristic profile in a peripheral direction which is orthogonal to and surrounds the coupling axis. The peripheral direction is tangential to the coupling direction on a periphery of the connector. The example reference connector 13, 15 has an axis symmetrical peripheral profile, which is a circular profile in this example, and the partial connector follows the peripheral profile of the reference connector between the radial levels of the partial connector.

[0401] The male partial connector 117A, 117C comprises a protruding connection portion which protrudes form the peripheral surface 116. The connection portion has a base portion which extends along an edge formed by intersection of the peripheral surface 116 and the second surface 114. The connection portion extends away from the second surface 114 and extends towards the first surface 112 to define a radial extent (or an axial extent if with respect to the coupling axis of the connector 113) along a line of lateral symmetry of the partial connector. The base portion of the partial connector 117A, 117C which is on the edge, or more specifically a cornered edge, defines a lateral extent of the partial connector 117A. The partial connector converges to a top portion as it extends away from the second surface and extends towards the first surface. The partial connector has a peripheral profile which tapers to narrow as it extends away from the second surface and extends towards the first surface, and the tapering follows a pair of concave curves which is symmetrical about the line of symmetry. Conversely, the partial connector has a peripheral profile which flares to widen as it extends from the first surface towards the second surface, the flaring follows the pair of concave curves which is symmetrical about the line of symmetry. The concave curves are portions of the peripheral profile of the circular peripheral profile of the reference connector or the assembled connector.

[0402] The partial connector 117B, 117D of the first intermediate building brick 1200 is a female partial connector having a connector receptacle which extends from a partial connector base to a partial connector top. The partial connector base of the example partial connector 117B, 117D is flush with the second surface 114 of the first intermediate building brick 1200. The partial connector top of the example partial connector 1178, 117D is flush with the first surface 112 of the first intermediate building brick 1200. The radial extent of the partial connector 117B, 117D measured between the partial connector base and the partial connector top, and along the line or plane of symmetry of the partial connector, is same as the thickness of the building brick.

[0403] The example partial connector 117B, 117D is a truncated portion (or more exactly a double truncated portion) of a connector which is truncated at two different radial levels, with the partial connector top flush with the first surface and the partial connector top flush with the second surface. In this example, a through bore is formed between the partial connector top and the partial connector base and the through bore is the partial receptacle compartment of a connector receptacle.

[0404] In this example, the partial connector is defined by two truncating planes of the connector at two truncating planes which are parallel and are separated by a distance smaller than half of the radial extent of the connector. In this example, the partial connector is a portion of a bisected portion of a connector or a minor portion of a reference connector or an assembled connector in the radial direction along the line of lateral symmetry of the partial connector, and more specifically, a portion of a half connector receptacle. Therefore, the partial connector has a radial extent smaller than half the radial extent of a reference connector or an assembled connector.

[0405] In some embodiments, the partial connector is defined by two truncating planes of the connector at two truncating planes which are parallel and separated by a distance equal to or larger than half of the radial extent of the connector.

[0406] In some embodiments, the partial connector is located intermediate the first surface and the second surface, and in such embodiments, the partial connector top does not intersect the first surface or form a top aperture on the first surface. On the other hand, the partial connector of the example building brick 1200 intersects with the first surface to form a partial connector top aperture on the first surface and intersects with the second surface to form a partial connector base aperture on the second surface.

[0407] The example partial connector is a split portion of a connector receptacle having a peripheral profile which follows the peripheral profile of the connector. The peripheral profile of the connector is a characteristic profile in a peripheral direction which is orthogonal to and surrounds the coupling axis. The peripheral direction is tangential to the coupling direction on a periphery of the connector. The example reference connector 14, 16 has an axis symmetrical peripheral profile, which is a circular profile in this example, and the partial connector follows the peripheral profile of the reference connector between the radial levels of the partial connector.

[0408] The female partial connector 117B, 117D comprises a hollow connection portion having a partial receptacle compartment which is retracted inside the peripheral surface 116. The partial receptacle compartment has a depth which is comparable to the axial extent of a male connector or which is sufficient to make secured, yet detachable, engagement with a protrusion portion of a compatible male connector. Similarly, the connection portion of the partial connector 117B, 117D has a base portion which extends along an edge formed by intersection of the peripheral surface 116 and the second surface 114. The connection portion extends away from the second surface 114 and extends towards the first surface 112 to define a radial extent (or an axial extent if with respect to the coupling axis of the connector 113) along a line of lateral symmetry of the partial connector. The base portion of the partial connector 117B, 117D which is on the edge, or more specifically a cornered edge, defines a lateral extent of the partial connector 117A, or more specifically the lateral extent of the receptacle compartment. The partial receptacle compartment converges to a top portion as it extends away from the second surface and extends towards the first surface. The partial connector, or more specifically, the partial receptacle compartment has a peripheral profile or a radial extent which tapers to narrow as it extends away from the second surface and extends towards the first surface, and the tapering follows a pair of concave curves which is symmetrical about the line of symmetry. The concave curves are portions of the peripheral profile of the circular peripheral profile of the reference connector or the assembled connector.

[0409] The partial connectors on opposite lateral surfaces have their curved peripheral profiles aligned, as depicted in FIGS. 14B1 and 14B2.

[0410] The second intermediate building brick 1300 comprises the basic block and a plurality of connector formations. The connector formation is a partial connector described herein. The second intermediate building brick 1300 is identical to the intermediate building brick 1200 and comprises similar partial connector and partial connector arrangements, although the orientations of the partial connectors are different, and the description on and in relation to the intermediate building brick 1200 is incorporated herein by reference. Specifically, the partial connectors on the second intermediate building brick 1300 are arranged in mirror symmetry to the partial connectors on the second intermediate building brick 1300. In other words, the partial connectors on the second intermediate building brick 1300 are in mirror symmetry to the partial connectors on the second intermediate building brick 1300. More specifically, the partial connector has a transversal extent at an edge formed by the peripheral surface 16 and the second surface 114, and the transversal extent gradually increases, that is flares to widen, as the partial connector extends from the second surface towards the first surface. In other words, the partial connector diverges to a top portion as it extends away from the second surface and extends towards the first surface. The partial connector has a peripheral profile which flares to widen as it extends away from the second surface and extends towards the first surface, and the flaring follows a pair of concave curves which is symmetrical about the line of symmetry. Conversely, the partial connector has a peripheral profile which tapers to narrow as it extends from the first surface towards the second surface, the tapering follows the pair of concave curves which is symmetrical about the line of symmetry, as depicted n FIGS. 14B3, 14B4.

[0411] The top or first intermediate building brick 1100 comprises the basic block and a plurality of connector formations. The connector formation is a partial connector described herein. The partial connectors on the peripheral surface 16 of the intermediate building brick 1100 are all female partial connectors and each partial connector is a minor split portion of a connector and having an aperture on edge defined by the peripheral surface 16 and the second surface, and the partial connector ends stops well before reaching the first surface.

[0412] The bottom or fourth intermediate building brick 1400 comprises the basic block and a plurality of connector formations. The connector formation is a partial connector described herein. The partial connectors on the peripheral surface 16 of the intermediate building brick 1100 are all female partial connectors and each partial connector is a minor split portion of a connector and having an aperture on edge defined by the peripheral surface 16 and the first surface, and the partial connector ends stops well before reaching the second surface. In this example, the partial connectors of the first intermediate building brick 100 and the partial connectors of the first intermediate building brick 1400 are substantially mirror symmetrical.

[0413] In this example, the first partial connector 117A on the first lateral surface 116 of the first intermediate building brick 100 is an indentation to provide a clearance receptacle for accommodating the partial connector top of the first partial connector 117A of the second intermediate building brick 1200 which protrudes beyond its first surface, and is not for cooperation with another partial connector to form an assemble female connector. Likewise, the first partial connector 117A on the first lateral surface 116 of the fourth intermediate building brick 1400 is an indentation to provide a clearance receptacle for accommodating the partial connector top of the first partial connector 117A of the second intermediate building brick 1300 which protrudes beyond its second surface, and is not for cooperation with another partial connector to form an assemble female connector.

[0414] In this example, the assembled connector on the peripheral surface 16 are in mirror symmetry about a dividing plane which is either the second surface of the second intermediate building brick 1200 second or the first surface of the third intermediate building brick 1300. Such a mirror symmetry is for example, and the assembled connector may be shifted upwards towards the top surface or the bottom surface of the building block without loss of generality. In general, symmetrical dispositions enhances flexibility while non-symmetrical dispositions provide enhanced directionality.

[0415] In the example of FIG. 13A, the connectors on the first and second surface are compatible and complementary or reciprocal. In other embodiments, connectors on the first and second surface are compatible and non-complementary or non-reciprocal. For example, the connectors on the first and second surfaces of the second intermediate building brick 1200 may be all of male connectors, and the connectors on the first and second surfaces of the third intermediate building brick 1300 may be all of female connectors. For example, the connectors on the first and second surfaces of the second intermediate building brick 1100 may be all of male connectors, and the connectors on the first and second surfaces of the second intermediate building brick 1200 may be all of female connectors, or may have female connectors on the first surface and male connectors on the second surface without loss of generality.

[0416] Various building block assemblies 20, 30, 40, 50A-50D, 60A and 60B that can be constructed from the building bricks 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400 are depicted in the Figures.

[0417] As depicted in FIGS. 12A-12C, an assembled male connector is formed on the first lateral surface of the assembly 30. The assembled male connector is a full male connector identical to the example connector 13, 113 on the first surface 12, 112, although the total thickness of the main body of the building block assembly 20 is smaller than the total or maximum radial extent of the assembled male connector. An assembled female connector is formed on the third lateral surface. The assembled female connector is a substantial portion or a major radial portion (more than 75%, more than 80%, more than 85%, and equal to or less than 90% or 95%) of a full female connector 15, 115 on the first surface 14, 114. Although the total radial extent of the assembled female connector is less than that of the full connector, the substantial portion or a major radial portion of the assembled connector functions as a full connector for most, if not all, practical purposes. A corresponding assembled female connector is formed on the second lateral surface of the assembly 30. The assembled female connector on the second lateral surface of the assembly 30 and the assembled male connector on the first lateral surface have their coupling axes aligned. The surface nomenclature of the building block assembly 40 is applied herein for succinctness.

[0418] As depicted in FIGS. 10A-10C, an assembled male connector is formed on the first lateral surface of the assembly 10. A corresponding assembled female connector is formed on the second lateral surface of the assembly 10. The assembled male connector is a bisection of a full male connector of the example connector 13, 113 on the first surface 12, 112, with its maximum radial extent on the second surface. The assembled female connector is a bisection of a full female connector of the example connector 15, 115 on the second surface 14, 114, with its maximum radial extent on the second surface and its peripheral profile aligned with the peripheral profile of the assembled male connector.

[0419] As depicted in FIGS. 11A-11C, an assembled male connector is formed on the first lateral surface of the assembly 20. A corresponding assembled female connector is formed on the second lateral surface of the assembly 20. The assembled male connector is a bisection of a full male connector of the example connector 13, 113 on the first surface 12, 112, with its maximum radial extent on the first surface. The assembled female connector is a bisection of a full female connector of the example connector 15, 115 on the second surface 14, 114, with its maximum radial extent on the first surface and its peripheral profile aligned with the peripheral profile of the assembled male connector. The assembly 20 is substantially a mirror symmetrical assembly of the assembly 10. Other possible combination of the building bricks are depicted in FIGS. 15A1, 15B1 and 15C1 for completeness.

[0420] As depicted in FIGS. 15C1 and 15C2, an assembled female connector not compatible with the connector on the first surface or second surface is formed on the peripheral surface.

[0421] An example building block 60A formed by sideway connection of the example building bricks 1300 are depicted in FIGS. 15D1 and 15D2. In this example, a partial connector on the second lateral side of a first component brick 1200 is connected with a compatible and complementary partial connector on the first lateral side of an adjacent component building block which is identical to the first component brick 1200. In this example, the first surfaces of the adjacent building blocks are aligned and flush and the adjacent component building block are fastened with a binding agent.

[0422] An example building block 60B formed by sideway connection of the example building bricks 1300 are depicted in FIGS. 15E1 and 15E2. In this example, a partial connector on the second lateral side of a first component brick 1300 is connected with a compatible and complementary partial connector on the first lateral side of an adjacent component building block which is identical to the first component brick 1300. In this example, the first surfaces of the adjacent building blocks are aligned and flush and the adjacent component building block are fastened with a binding agent.

[0423] The building bricks 1200 and 1300 are particularly suitable for use in construction, for example, as modular times. For example, the partial connectors on opposite facing lateral sides of the peripheral surface facilitates efficient and expeditious alignment of modular parts and this means substantial economic value, for example, for the construction industry.

[0424] Furthermore, the building bricks 1200 and 1300 can be connected in a sidewise manner, for example, with the first surface of the building brick 1200 aligned with or in flush with the second surface of the building brick 1300 and vice versa.

[0425] The various sidewise connection possibilities provide useful choices and combination for the public and are advantageous.

[0426] Additional example of building block assemblies 70, 80 built from building bricks having a rectangular or square first surface are depicted in FIGS. 16A1-16A3, and 16B1-16B2.

[0427] Example building block assemblies 90A, 90B, 90C built from building bricks having a non-rectangular or non-square first surface are depicted in FIGS. 16C1-16C3, 16D1-16D2 and 16E1-16E2 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In these examples, the first surface has a triangular shape or a trapezoid shape. Of course, the first surface and the corresponding surface can be of any shape without loss of generality. For example, the first surface can have a circular shape, an oval shape, regular or irregular polygonal shape, or non-geometric shapes.

[0428] The example building brick of the assembly 90B has an equilateral triangular first surface. The equilateral triangular first surface facilitates sidewise as well as cyclical connection of bricks.

[0429] In addition, the combined capability of adjacent building blocks to connect by stacking as well as sidewise connection makes three-dimensional construction using modular building blocks more flexible, expeditious and productive.

[0430] While the disclosure has made reference to various embodiments, the embodiments are for example and should not be used to limit restrict the scope of the disclosure.

[0431] For example, the example building blocks herein are toy building blocks for toy or toy-like applications and the building block assemblies are toy or toy-like building block assemblies. However, the building blocks herein can also be non-toy building blocks such as machine building blocks, construction building blocks such as tiles or bricks, and/or other industrial building blocks and the building block assemblies are modular built machines or machine parts, modular built structures, modular built structure parts, modular built structural parts, modular built fixture and/or fixture parts and/or fixture sub-assemblies.

[0432] When used for toy applications as toy assemblies, the component building blocks have a typical radial extent (or width, or lateral extent) of between 1 cm and 15 cm and a typical axial extent (or thickness) or between 0.3 mm for a miniature block to 5 cm. For example, the radial extent can be, in units of cm, 1 for a miniature block, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, 10.5, 11, 11.5, 12, 12.5, 13.5, 14, 14.5, 15, 15.5, 16, 16.5, 17, 17.5, 18, 18.5, 19, 19.5, 20, or more for a mega block, or a range or any ranges formed by a selected combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges. For example, the axial extent can be, in units of cm, 1 for a miniature block, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5, 10, or more for a mega block, or a range or any ranges formed by a selected combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges.

[0433] When for industrial uses, for example for modular construction of machines, buildings, structures, parts, the aforesaid values may be scaled up, in unit of times, by 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, or a range or any ranges formed by a selected combination of any of the aforesaid values as limits of a range or limits of ranges; and the component building blocks may be made of strong thermoplastics, carbon fibres, fibre glass, or metals, or other mouldable materials, having a high rigidity and a small degree of resilience.

[0434] While assemblies of the building blocks have been described with reference to snap engagement or snap connection and snap connectors, the building blocks may be joined or connected by other press-fit mechanisms or methods without loss of generality.

[0435] While the example connectors described and depicted herein are snap connectors adapted for making snap-fit engagement, a connector herein can be a “press-fit” connector for making press-fit engagement or a “friction-fit for making press-fit engagement unless the context requires otherwise.

[0436] In general, a snap-fit connector comprises an engagement portion having snap-fit mating features. The terms “snap”, “snap fit”, and “snap-fit”, are interchangeably used herein unless the context requires otherwise. The terms “fastener” and “connector” are also interchangeably used herein unless the context requires otherwise. In this description and specification, and when in relation to a connector or an engagement portion having a coupling axis, the terms “closely-fitted engagement” and “coupled engagement” are interchangeable, the axial direction is with respect to the coupling axis and the axial direction is along the coupling axis, and the radial direction is with respect to the coupling axis and the radial extent is in the radial direction, unless the context requires otherwise.

[0437] The words “first”, “second”, “third”, “fourth”, etc. are generic terms for ease of reference only and are not intended for indicate priority, order or sequence unless the context requires otherwise or specifies otherwise. Where there are conflicts in relation to the aforesaid generic terms, the conflicts are to resolve to give a meaning which is reasonable for interpretation where possible.

[0438] While singular and plural terms are used herein, a singular term may apply mutatis mutandis to a plural situation and a plural term may apply mutatis mutandis to a single situation where the context permits or requires.

[0439] While the disclosure has been made with reference to examples and embodiments, the examples and embodiments are non-limiting and shall not be used to restrict the scope of disclosure.