DE102008033007B3 - Cubical, flat component i.e. toy module, for use in e.g. self-supporting dome structure, has surface coated with coating material, where edges of material are chamfered or rounded maximum upto surface of carrier - Google Patents

Abstract

The component (1) has a surface (11) coated with a coating material (20). The coating material is selected from the group of adhesive-free materials. The material is in contact with another component exhibits adhesive coefficient in the range between 0.7 and 1.1. Edges (21) of the material along breadth and/or length of a carrier (10) are chamfered or rounded. The edges are chamfered or rounded maximum upto a surface of the carrier. A material of the carrier is selected from bamboo, ash wood, birch wood, carbon fiber or stainless steel.

Description

• – einen Träger einer Längenabmessung L, einer Breitenabmessung B und einer Dickenabmessung d,
• – sowie zwei die Dickenabmessung d begrenzenden Oberflächen, welche jeweils mit einem die Haftreibung des Trägermaterials übertreffenden Material beschichtet sind, so dass sich für den beschichteten Träger eine Dickenabmessung D ergibt,

wobei das Verhältnis Längenabmessung L zu Breitenabmessung B des Bauelements zwischen 5 und 20 liegt; und wobei das Verhältnis Dickenabmessung D zu Breitenabmessung B des beschichteten Bauelements zwischen 0,5 und 0,1 liegt.The present invention relates to a cuboid, flat component, in particular a toy building block comprising

• A support of a length dimension L, a width dimension B and a thickness dimension d,
• As well as two surfaces delimiting the thickness dimension d, which are each coated with a material which exceeds the static friction of the carrier material, so that a thickness dimension D results for the coated carrier,

wherein the ratio of length dimension L to width dimension B of the component is between 5 and 20; and wherein the ratio of thickness dimension D to width dimension B of the coated device is between 0.5 and 0.1.

since always have building blocks especially for Toddlers educational valuable. The fundamentally open-minded character of the game trains with building blocks a variety of motor, sensory and intellectual abilities. Also basic moments of experience such as curiosity, exploration, challenge, Success and defeat are created in the game with blocks. Most of the blocks are part of kits more or less coordinated units of different Shape and size. you will be exclusively arranged by (possibly simple) stacking to new objects, which according to the age group.

much rarer are kits to be found, which with only one and the same block type the construction allow different objects. They are less suitable for toddlers, because they require a more intense intellectual-visual discussion. A certain limitation of the possibilities offers a special charm, what building blocks also for older children and even adults can make interesting, as the example of so-called Kapla blocks can be seen.

When However, building blocks are almost unknown, but components that are not have only uniform dimensions, but due to their aspect ratios over the pure Go beyond stack principle. For example, components are known, their aspect ratios L, B and d or D are such that at least 2.5 N or 3 N like components at least to a free-standing arch structure with N in an envelope reaching from support to support lying corners, where N is a natural number and is at least 2, preferably at least 3, and wherein in determining the number of similar components by means of of the term 2.5 N in the case of a decimal as a result of this the next natural Number is round up.

comparable free-standing arch structures are based on an idea by Leonardo Vinci (1452-1519) back, in his Codex Atlanticus (about 1480) a transportable bridge logs sketched, which is today known as Leonardo Bridge. The ratio of Length too Radius of the roundwoods was sized so that 3N in about the same round logs too a cantilever arch structure with N in one of supports too Bearing-reaching envelope lying corners could be put together. In practice, had to the roundwoods However, be secured by cords against slipping.

Nowadays anyone can practice practicing the construction of a Leonardo bridge at the Landesmuseum für Technik und Arbeit in Mannheim. The bridge consists only of flat wooden boards of a length dimension L, a width dimension B and a thickness dimension d, joined together without adhesive or fasteners. The aspect ratios L, B and d of the wooden boards are dimensioned so that 2.5 N or 3 N similar boards hold each other by their own weight and by friction and so a semi-stable arc with N in lying from support to support reaching envelope lying Forming corners. According to the museum, two hands are enough to build such a free-standing arch structure. However, at least from a certain size of the bridge a high degree of skill requirement, since at inclinations of about 30 ° "wood on wood" already slips or in other words, the Haftrei coefficient of application μ _{0 of} a dry material pair "wood on wood" usually with about 0.5 is relatively low. Wooden boards with two smoothly designed surfaces delimiting the thickness dimension, such as those in the Landesmuseum Mannheim, provoke a slippage of the same before the construction achieves sufficient stability, as can be clearly seen during the construction of card houses, for which the aforementioned wooden boards are neither conceived nor suitable ,

complex Structures as arches in particular, the extension of the construction principle to ring closure are with known flat, cuboidal components only made of wood but also just as unrealizable as with others Low friction materials. That would also be the precise cooperation change at least two people little. Rather, either additional technical aids and / or special designs the components needed.

For example, in the utility model DE 20 2005 000 914 U1 the necessary Sta achieved by the use of at least two types of components with mutually different geometries and by means of positive locking areas in the form of additional stabilizing notches for the presented above all as sports equipment, the known Rhönrad similar structure.

So far you still have the mathematical-educational stimulus that the Construction of different objects with only one and the same block type offers, may receive, can be found at the Center for Mathematics of the Technical University of Munich (TUM) in the context of the exhibition ix-square already identically shaped, from oblong Wooden slats made building blocks a length dimension L, a width dimension B and a thickness dimension d designed, in which the two surfaces limiting the thickness dimension d with felt adhesive or d-c-fix velor adhesive film, which is the slip resistance the blocks raise like that, that in addition to ring closure and bridge arch also so-called dome roofs can be built up {vgl. Richter-Gebert, Jürgen (March 2007): A down and over mathematics learn playfully from static constructions. While at Felt disorderly entangled fibers cause the same Material pairing "felt on felt "first Slips at an inclination of 60 °, For velours, the fibers are even perpendicular to the surface. By the mutual interlocking of the fibers is still here far higher Slip resistance.

this Advantage, however, is the disadvantage of the fact that when building alone non-positively self-supporting Structures such as the previously named "Velcro" textile (especially felt, Velor or the like hook and / or loop-shaped fibers) the lateral displacement of already entangled components so strong limits that whose correctability is ultimately prevented.

Finally, as well as the above-mentioned uncoated blocks of the Landesmuseum Mannheim also the coated blocks of the TUM for supplementary applications as neither inventions nor the card house principle suitable.

Of these, The present invention is based on the object, one opposite the prior art improved component, esp. A toy building block, to provide the construction of even complex-entangled structures like domes, arches and / or wheel etc, without giving up on the correctability already entangled components to be without. Alternatively or cumulatively to verschränkbaren structure structures to a preferred component in particular also designed in such a way be that a buildup of solo, supplemental and / or attachments after the house of cards principle allows is.

These Task is a component or a game module according to the features of the independent Patent claim 1 solved. Advantageous training and further education, which individually or in combination can be used together Subject of the dependent Claims.

• – dass das Beschichtungsmaterial aus der Gruppe klettfreier Materialien gewählt ist;
• – dass das jeweilige Beschichtungsmaterial eines ersten beschichteten Bauelements in Anlage mit einem zweiten beschichteten Bauelement einen Haftreibungskoeffizienten μ₀ zwischen etwa 0,7 und 1,1 aufweist; und
• – dass die Kanten des jeweiligen Beschichtungsmaterials entlang der Breitenabmessung B des Trägers und/oder entlang der Längenabmessung L des Trägers dergestalt angefast ausgebildet sind, dass die Kanten des jeweiligen Beschichtungsmaterials maximal bis zur jeweiligen Oberfläche des Trägers angefast sind.

The cuboid flat component according to the invention is based on generic components characterized

• - That the coating material is selected from the group of velcro-free materials;
• - That the respective coating material of a first coated device in contact with a second coated device has a coefficient of static friction μ ₀ between about 0.7 and 1.1; and
• - That the edges of the respective coating material along the width dimension B of the carrier and / or along the length dimension L of the carrier are formed chamfered such that the edges of the respective coating material are chamfered maximum to the respective surface of the carrier.

there are with "velcro-free Materials "all those materials that are not due to their nature and surface texture velcro-like Connections, that is detachable mechanical entanglements ("Verklettungen"), can enter. In his most common Application to garments, Shoes and the like the Velcro is known to be a textile, almost arbitrary often to be solved Closure agent based on the principle of burdock fruits. The static friction of the carrier material surpassing Coating materials, however, that consciously do without mechanical gearing, allow advantageously a move itself already complex entangled components and insofar as their correctability, so even of ideal construction lines obviously different starting structure structures easily can be completed, which helps to lift frustration tolerances.

Prefers are therefore coating materials each with a slip resistance Such that two superimposed components with the same material or possibly also differently coated surfaces also at angles α between 35 ° and 50 °, in particular between 40 ° and 48 °, preferably about 45 °, do not slip.

With respect to a horizontal plane, in each case coating materials of a first coated component are preferred, which are in contact (material pairing) with a second material chen or possibly differently coated component a coefficient of static friction μ ₀ between in particular 0.8 and 1.0; preferably about 0.9.

Accordingly can as coating materials, in particular cork (phellem) or comparable surpassing the stiction of the support material Plant fibers (pulps) and / or sponge rubber or comparable Foams, find use.

ever after used carrier and / or coating material and / or desired structure structure, For example, the respective coating material has a thickness between 0.8 and 2.0 mm, in particular between 0.9 and 1.5 mm, preferably of about 1.0 mm.

According to the invention preferred the edges of the respective coating material are at least along the width dimension B of the carrier formed chamfered. The chamfering of the edges of the coating material alone at least along the width dimension B of the carrier advantageously provides for a higher contact surface against each other or leaning against each other placed components, which the Danger of slippage in particular according to the principle so-called. Card Houses, ie partly leaning against each other, partly lying on each other, in solo, Supplementary and / or attachments minimized components.

Of the Degree of freedom of installation possibilities let yourself increase favorably, if preferred, the edges of the respective coating material along the length dimension L of the carrier chamfered are formed. In particular, then the components can be also over their long sides leaning against each other.

Around instead of edges as possible non-slip bearing surfaces It is important to note that the chamfering of the edges is actually only possible the respective coating material detected. In other words the edges of the coating material according to the invention maximum up to the respective surface of the carrier formed chamfered.

Of the Chamfer angle β of Edges of the respective coating material can be used for all edges uniform with preferably 45 ° or different, in particular between 30 ° and 60 ° lying, preferably between 40 ° and 50 °, formed be.

So especially for two at an acute angle the edges along the width dimension B of the carrier against each other leaning blocks Chamfer angle β of Proven 30 °. The to a 30 ° chamfer each mirror-symmetric edge on the same and the opposite surface preferably has a chamfer angle β of 60 °. The remaining, to first 30 ° chamfer points symmetrical edge on the opposite surface again preferably a 30 ° chamfer on. The paired arrangement of different chamfered edges of 30 ° and 60 ° promotes advantageous the structure extremely stable Structures according to the house of cards principle.

For applications as a souvenir or giveaway especially for adults persons as a carrier a metal core of z. B. Stainless steel use.

So far classic game applications esp. For children are in the foreground have become carrier materials in particular bamboo, ash wood, birch wood, plastics, carbon fibers (Carbon) and / or the like unbreakable and viscoplastic materials proven.

Especially Beams made of bamboo or wood can be solid or composite, For example, be made of plywood panels. The carrier can also as a plastic injection molding also solid or at least partially designed as a hollow body be. The use of carbon fiber (carbon) materials is conceivable.

For the creation from combined to bow and / or rings and / or the house of cards principle Established complex structures have become components with one relationship of length dimension L proven to width dimension B between 5 and 20. Aesthetically appealing Structures arise when the ratios of length dimension L to width dimension B corresponds to about 6, because without prejudice to the design options especially in bow or ring structures parallel components always pushed together to the full support width of a component can be.

For the combination of ring, bow, dome and / or card house structures equally suitable finally have Components with matching aspect ratios proven, where the ratio Thickness dimension D to width dimension B of the component, for example between 0.5 and 0.1, in particular between 0.2 and 0.3, preferably about 0.23, where the latter value of a preferred suitability of the components with L / B = 6, namely the construction of a 16-cornered ring closure.

The present invention is due to the hitherto unique compound, in particular of arch structure and card house principle as a sophisticated construction toy, due to The seemingly limited possibilities not only challenge minds, logic, and imagination, but also enable a comprehensible understanding of fundamental principles of geometry and mechanics. In addition, the game with components of the invention promotes the ability to concentrate, fine motor skills and cooperation with others, which is why it is particularly suitable as a therapeutic and educational toys.

additional Details and further advantages of the invention are given below with reference to an exemplary component and structures formed therefrom, to which, however, the present invention is not limited, and in conjunction with the attached Drawing described.

In this show schematically:

1 a cuboid flat component in a front, side, top and perspective view;

2 the use of a plurality of identical components according to 1 in two complex-entangled ring structures;

3 the use of a plurality of identical components according to 1 in two complex-entangled domed structures;

4 the use of a plurality of identical components according to 1 in four solo, supplementary and / or extensions according to the house-of-cards principle; and

5 to 10 the use of a plurality of identical components according to 1 in exemplary applications of a mix of complex entangled structures and solo, supplementary and / or extensions according to the house of cards principle.

at the following description of some preferred embodiments In the present invention, like reference characters designate the same or similar components.

1a shows a cuboid flat component 1 in a front, side and top view; 1b in a perspective view. The component 1 consists at its core of a carrier 10 a length dimension L, a width dimension B and a thickness dimension d. The carrier 10 can be made of metal, plastic or wood. Depending on the material used, the carrier 10 solid or composite and / or at least partially be formed as a hollow body. Shown is a massive carrier 10 of wood, preferably of ash or birch plywood or of bamboo. Visible limit two surfaces 11 the thickness dimension d of the carrier 10 , In order to already have complex structures (cf. 2 ff.) entangled components 1 to be able to correct the surfaces 11 each with a stiction of the carrier material 10 surpassing but velcro-free material 20 , in particular coated on both sides with cork (phellem).

The thickness of the coating material 20 depends on the material used by the wearer 10 from. Basically, the higher the flexural strength of the Trägermateri than 10 the greater the thickness of the coating 20 , or the thinner the carrier material 10 to get voted. For carriers 10 with length dimensions smaller than 20 cm, width dimensions B smaller than 4 cm and thickness dimensions smaller than 1 cm have coating thicknesses 20 between 0.8 and 2.0 mm, in particular between 0.9 and 1.5 mm, preferably proven by about 1.0 mm, wherein the coated carrier 10 each gives a thickness dimension D.

Length dimension L, width dimension B and thickness dimension D define at the same time the dimensions of the component 1 and are preferably matched to one another under the proviso L> B ≥ D in such a way that in contact of two uniformly executed components 1 such a high coefficient of static friction μ ₀ results in 3 N or only 2.5 N uniformly executed cuboidal components 1 not only to the above-mentioned cantilevered arch structure but also to a single frictionally self-supporting N-square ring structure 30 are combinable, in which case N is an even number and is at least 6, but preferably 16.

2a shows an example of a 2.5 N-angular ring structure 30 from (2.5 x 16 =) 40 identical components 1 with an inner one 31 and two outer ones 32 Treads.

2 B shows by way of example a 3N-angular ring structure 30 from (3 x 16 =) 48 identical components 1 with two inner ones 31 and two outer ones 32 Treads.

Recognizable include the in 2 shown self-supporting ring structures 30 2.5 N or 3 N components 1 , where N of the components 1 the two outer treads 32 the structure 30 form, N / 2 ( 2a ) or N ( 2 B ) other components 1 the at least one ( 2a ) or the two ( 2 B ) inner treads 31 the structure 30 form and N other components 1 equatorial and to those between the treads 31 and 32 arranged in pairs to the equatorial components 1 with the components 1 the treads 31 and 32 to bring the force shot. Since the aforementioned constructions only with the full training for ring closure 30 become stable, their construction requires a high level of Dexterity or precise cooperation of at least two persons. That is why the components are suitable 1 in appropriate dimensions and sufficient number of a set of preferably 40 or 48 components 1 good as a therapeutic or educational construction toy. An additional mathematical-pedagogical stimulus arises from the fact that virtually the complete information on the ring structure 30 already in the aspect ratios L>B> D of the individual component 1 plugged.

While a Leonardo bridge of entangled components 1 almost only in one direction and at most up to a ring closure 30 spreads, so-called dome roofs extend 40 over an area:

3a shows by way of example a so-called "igloo", constructed from 40 identically manufactured components 1 ,

3b shows a so-called "dome", constructed of 35 identically manufactured components 1 ,

In both examples, a Verschränkungsprinzip, in which always at least 4 or as shown at least 6 components 1 mutually interlinked, to that the respective dome construction 40 quickly gaining stability and height.

Alternatively or cumulatively, to build up dome 40 or arch structure including ring closure 30 It is also preferred according to the invention to be able to construct other complex structures that are self-supporting and / or self-supporting by themselves 21 of the coating material 20 at least along the width dimension B, preferably also along the length dimension L, of the carrier 10 formed chamfered.

1 also shows how the surfaces 11 of the carrier 10 continuous with a stiction-increasing material 20 coated in such a thickness are that the edges 21 are chamfered at least along the width dimension B and preferably also along the length dimension L, in the embodiment shown at a preferred chamfer angle β of 45 °.

By chamfering the edges 21 of the coating material 20 at least along the width dimension B of the carrier 10 let said components 1 not only to dome 40 , Bow and ring structures 30 combine but advantageous for the first time according to the principle so-called card houses 50 In other words, in some cases leaning against each other, partly lying on one another, putting up, depending on the exercise and knowledge of the construction principles, the construction indeed of impressive structures of completely identical components 1 allows:

4a shows by way of example a so-called "card block house", constructed from 54 identically manufactured components 1 ;

4b shows by way of example a so-called "wing bridge", constructed from 49 identically manufactured components 1 , wherein one of the two lateral serving as a support components 1 is dispensable;

4c shows by way of example a so-called "large ornament" constructed from 56 identically manufactured components 1 ; and

4d shows by way of example a so-called "pretzel monster", constructed from 80 identically manufactured components 1 ,

In 4a and 4b is well recognizable at about half height, such as a preferred coating material 20 so slip-resistant is that two superimposed components 1 even at angles of attack α between 35 ° and 50 ° do not slip, although above partly followed by considerable structural structures.

Even more than in 4 show the following application examples, as surprisingly, in particular the combination of arch structure and card house principle leads to further impressive structure structures:

5 shows by way of example a so-called "pillow", constructed of 60 identically manufactured components 1 ;

6 shows an example of a so-called. "Deckchair", built from 40 identical, manufactured components 1 ;

7 shows by way of example a so-called "Harmonikahaus", constructed from 40 identically manufactured components 1 ;

8th shows an example of a so-called "bird house", constructed of 33 identically manufactured components 1 ;

9 shows an example of two towers, on the one hand a "Chinaturm" ( 9a ), built from 52 identically manufactured components 1 and on the other hand a "leaning tower" ( 9b ), built from 39 identically manufactured components 1 ; and

10 shows by way of example a so-called "centipede", constructed from approximately 58 identically manufactured components 1 ,

Although the number of used construction ELEMENTS 1 , which are required for the construction of the above exemplary embodiments, are each indicated with, it should again be emphasized that a plurality of structures each from the same set of 2.5 N or 3 N, preferably uniform, trained components 1 can be built, wherein preferably N = 16 is selected.

The essential aspects of preferred components 1 can be summed up as follows: To the seat already to complex structures 30 or 40 entangled components 1 To be able to correct is inventively proposed, the coating material 20 to choose from the group of velcro-free materials. As far as alternative or cumulative to this, also statements according to the house of cards principle 50 are desired, the invention is preferably proposed, at least the edges 21 of the respective coating material 20 at least along the width dimension B of the carrier 10 Chastised to train.

Through the hitherto unique connection, in particular entangled structures constructed with those based on the house of cards principle, the present invention is suitable as a sophisticated construction toy like no other. Rather, it does not only challenge thinking, logic, and imagination because of the - seemingly - limited possibilities, but also allows for a comprehensive understanding of fundamental principles of geometry and mechanics. Finally, the game promotes with components of the invention 1 the ability to concentrate, fine motor skills and cooperation with others, which is why it is particularly suitable as a therapeutic and educational toy.

1

component, toy building block

10

Carrier; support material

11

surface

20

the Stiction increasing Material; coating material

21

Edges of the coating material 20

d

Thickness dimension of the uncoated carrier 10

D

Thickness of the coated carrier 10

B

Width dimension of the coated and uncoated carrier 10

L

Length dimension of the coated and uncoated carrier 10

N

number the corners

30

ring structure

31

inner race (s) of the ring structure 30

32

outer raceways of the ring structure 30

40

cupola

50

all or partially based on the house of cards principle structures

α

Angle of attack of two coated, superimposed components 1

β

Bevel angle of the edges 21 of the coating material 20

Claims (18)

Rectangular flat component ( 1 ), in particular toy building block, comprising - a support ( 10 ) of a length dimension L, a width dimension B and a thickness dimension d, - and two surfaces bounding the thickness dimension d ( 11 ), each with a material which exceeds the static friction of the carrier material ( 20 ) are coated so that for the coated carrier ( 10 ) yields a thickness dimension D, wherein the ratio length dimension L to width dimension B of the component ( 1 ) is between 5 and 20; and wherein the ratio of thickness dimension D to width dimension B of the coated component (FIG. 1 ) is between 0.5 and 0.1; characterized in that - the coating material ( 20 ) is selected from the group of velcro-free materials; - that the respective coating material ( 20 ) of a first coated component ( 1 ) in contact with a second coated component ( 1 ) has a static friction coefficient μ ₀ between about 0.7 and 1.1; and - that the edges ( 21 ) of the respective coating material ( 20 ) along the width dimension B of the carrier ( 10 ) and / or along the length dimension L of the carrier ( 10 ) are chamfered in such a way that the edges ( 21 ) of the respective coating material ( 20 ) maximum to the respective surface ( 11 ) of the carrier ( 10 ) are chamfered. Component ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the coating material ( 20 ) is non-slip in such a way that two superimposed coated components ( 1 ) even at angles α between 35 ° and 50 °, in particular between 40 ° and 48 °, preferably by about 45 °, do not slip. Component ( 1 ) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the respective coating commercial ( 20 ) the first coated device ( 1 ) in contact with the second coated component ( 1 ) a static friction coefficient μ ₀ between in particular 0.8 and 1.0; preferably about 0.9; having. Component ( 1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that as coating materials ( 20 ) Cork (phellem) or comparable the static friction of the carrier material ( 10 ) above appropriate plant fibers (pulps) and / or sponge rubber or comparable foams, find use. Component ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the respective coating material ( 20 ) between 0.8 and 2.0 mm, in particular between 0.9 and 1.5 mm, preferably about 1.0 mm thick. Component ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the edges ( 21 ) of the respective coating material ( 20 ) at least along the width dimension B of the carrier ( 10 ) are formed chamfered. Component ( 1 ) according to claim 6, characterized in that the edges ( 21 ) of the respective coating material ( 20 ) along the length dimension L of the carrier ( 10 ) are formed chamfered. Component ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chamfer angle β of the edges ( 21 ) of the respective coating material ( 20 ) for all edges ( 21 ) is uniformly or differently between 30 ° and 60 °, in particular between 40 ° and 50 °, preferably 45 °. Component ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the to a 30 ° fiber edge ( 21 ) of the coating material ( 20 ) each mirror-symmetric edge ( 21 ) on the same and the opposite surface ( 11 ) has a chamfer angle β of 60 °, wherein the remaining, to the first 30 ° chamfer edge ( 21 ) point-symmetric edge ( 21 ) on the opposite surface ( 11 ) again has a 30 ° chamfer. Component ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, characterized in that as support material ( 10 ) is a metal, especially stainless steel, use. Component ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, characterized in that as support material ( 10 ) Bamboo, ash wood, birch wood, plastics, carbon fibers (carbon) and / or a like unbreakable and tough-elastic material is used. Component ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier ( 10 ) is solid, in the composite and / or at least partially formed as a hollow body. Component ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ratio length dimension L to width dimension B of the component ( 1 ) is preferably about 6. Component ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ratio of the thickness dimension D to the width dimension B of the coated component ( 1 ) is in particular between 0.2 and 0.3, preferably about 0.23. Set of components ( 1 ), which are 2.5 N or 3 N, preferably uniformly formed components ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in particular N = 16. Use of a set of components ( 1 ) according to claim 15 in a self-supporting N-pronged ring structure ( 30 ). Use of a set of components ( 1 ) according to claim 15 in a self-supporting dome structure ( 40 ). Use of a set of components ( 1 ) according to claim 15 in a structure constructed according to the house-of-cards principle ( 50 ).