HK1231803B - Modular electronic building systems with magnetic interconnections and methods of using the same - Google Patents

Description

Modular electronic building system utilizing magnetic interconnection and method of using the same

Divisional Application Instructions

This application is a divisional application of the Chinese invention patent application with the application date of August 26, 2013, application number 201380004224.3, and titled "Modular electronic building system using magnetic interconnection and its use method".

Related applications

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/728,103, filed November 19, 2012, entitled “Modular Electronic Building Systems with Magnetic Interconnections and Methods of Using the Same,” and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 13/593,891, filed August 24, 2012, entitled “Modular Electronic Building Systems with Magnetic Interconnections and Methods of Using the Same,” which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/527,860, filed August 26, 2011; each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to the field of electronic products, and more particularly to electronic building blocks and toy building sets.

Background Art

Today, people spend a lot of time every day with technology devices, but most people don’t know how these devices work or how to make their own. With all the interactivity of these devices, people are tied to passive consumption. Furthermore, playing with, creating, or integrating electronics into projects, toys, and products can be daunting and time-consuming, requiring specialized skillsets and specialized hardware/software platforms. People are afraid of connecting electronic objects the wrong way or getting shocked. This makes building objects with lights, sounds, buttons, and other electronic components very difficult and unaffordable for children, young students, designers, non-engineers, and others who lack the necessary experience. But with the advancement of technological miniaturization, electronics need to become more accessible to non-experts in a cost-effective way.

Therefore, there is a clear opportunity and need for an electronic building block platform that is simple, easy to use, and accessible, yet still capable of creating complex and interdependent systems. Such a platform would facilitate learning, enable 21st-century experimentation, and foster innovation. Furthermore, there is a need for a system that behaves like additional material during the creative process and enables children and adults to combine and integrate the system or its components with other conventional materials, such as paper, cardboard, and screws.

The following references provide background information and are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety: Ayah Bdeir, “Electronics as material: littleBits,” in Proceedings of the 3rd ACM International Conference on Tangible Embedded Interaction (TEI '09), New York, NY, USA, pp. 397-400, available at http://doi.acm.org/10.1145/1517664.1517743, with DOI 10.1145/1517664.151774; and Ayah Bdeir and Ted Ullrich, “Electronics as material: littleBits,” in Proceedings of the 5th ACM International Conference on Tangible Embedded Interaction (TEI '11), New York, NY, USA, pp. 341-344. material: littleBits”, see http://doi.acm.org/10.1145/1935701.1935781, its DOI is 10.1145/1935701.1935781.

Summary of the Invention

In certain exemplary aspects, an electronic educational toy or building system is provided that trains programming and circuit building logic without requiring expertise in either. The modular building system includes pre-assembled printed circuit boards (PCBs) interconnected by small magnets. Each block performs one or more independent functions (e.g., an LED, a button, a light sensor with a threshold, etc.), and blocks can be combined to create larger circuits. Some blocks respond to external events, such as mechanical force, touch, proximity, radio frequency signals, environmental conditions, etc. Still other blocks are pre-programmed, such as synthesizers, oscillators, etc. Still other blocks simply pass current, such as wiring blocks. Still other blocks provide current, such as power blocks/modules.

In some aspects, the system includes modules with different ways of interacting with each other. The interactions between modules, rather than the modules themselves, can form the building blocks of an innovation platform. In previous electronics kits, electronic components were central to the operation: resistors, capacitors, batteries, and so on. By manipulating the modules in those kits, children learned how electricity flows, how to design circuits, or how to identify components. However, this knowledge was specific and characteristic of a single circuit. It had little or no relevance to, for example, how the touch-sensitive wheel on an iPod ^™ works, or how a night light works, or how a cell phone vibrates, or how a phone can detect rotation and automatically rotate an image on the screen in response to that rotation, or how to make your own interactive objects. Although we are a society addicted to increasingly complex electronic devices (e.g., DVD players, MP3 players, cell phones, smoke alarms), the learning tools currently on the market only teach the very basics of electronics and electrical engineering, enabling us to, for example, turn on a light or observe the flow of electricity. There is a growing gap between what is taught to the average American and what they use and consume. This is also why most electronic sets and toys have a very short lifespan, because they don't connect to the user's daily life. Until now, there has been no way for children or adults to create their own innovative objects with custom-designed interactive behaviors without having to program or learn many of the complexities associated with advanced electronics. With the modular system of the present invention, people will be able to program interactivity in an intuitive and tactile way.

The description and drawings herein are provided as illustrations of one or more exemplary embodiments of the present invention, but should not be construed as restrictive or limiting. Thus, modifications may be made in many ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Hereinafter, the words block and module may be used interchangeably to refer to a modular circuit board.

Modules can be divided into categories corresponding to their functions. Examples of categories include, but are not limited to: power modules, input modules, output modules, wiring modules, etc. Power modules, for example, take current from a battery, a wall wart, or other power source and convert it into current that is fed to other components of the system. In any working configuration of modules, there is at least one power module. Input modules include, but are not limited to: buttons, switches, sensors, logic blocks, etc. Output modules include, but are not limited to: LEDs, displays, sound modules, etc. Wiring modules do not perform a specific function, but rather act as wiring extensions, construction converters, and in some cases as logic and status modules.

In one exemplary embodiment, standalone blocks are provided that can enable users with little or no electronics or programming experience to build basic and complex sensor, and interactive-based analog and digital circuits.

In another exemplary embodiment, the general electrical operation of the system is as follows. All modules can include standard interfaces and automatically connect when connected. Each module includes three power lines, interconnecting all modules and between all modules. These lines include power, signal, and ground. In the power module, the power and signal lines are 5 volts, and the system is low-power, with all modules sharing the power and ground lines. In other exemplary embodiments, the power supply can be other than 5 volts, such as 3V, 9V, 12V, 15V, alternating current (AC), etc. The input module has input control signal lines, which are operated according to the module's function and output a modified signal voltage. For example, when a pressure sensor is connected to a power source, the sensor module applies 5 volts to the signal line and outputs a voltage between 0 and 5 volts depending on the amount of pressure applied to the sensor. The output module responds to the signal line by "visualizing" the voltage through light, sound, display, or other forms.

All modules are pre-assembled, pre-designed and include the logic and circuitry needed to make the components easy to use. For example, an LED module includes a resistor corresponding to its current rating, an operational amplifier (OpAmp) that acts as a buffer in the rest of the circuit, and a button battery module that includes a discharge protection circuit. In certain exemplary embodiments, the system does not require prior knowledge of electronics and does not require any hardware or software platform. In other exemplary embodiments, the system may include a hardware and/or software platform. In addition, in certain exemplary embodiments, because the modules do not need to be programmed and no central circuit is required to control the modules, the system is independent and does not require a computer or hub. However, according to one exemplary embodiment, the system can be connected to a device such as a computer, hub, memory, or personal electronic mobile device (e.g., a cell phone, smart phone, etc.) to generate additional functionality or obtain information or power from the device.

In certain aspects, the modules are designed to be connected together and cascaded one after another. The modules include magnetic connectors that ensure electrical connection and can be expanded and mounted on a PCB. The magnetic connectors can be in the form of male and female connectors and in some examples can correspond to the north pole and south pole faces of a magnet. For standard blocks, each block has two magnetic connectors mounted thereon, one with the north pole face of the magnet(s) facing outward and the other with the south pole face of the magnet(s) facing outward. The south pole facing side of the magnetic connector of one module connects to the north pole facing side of the magnetic connector of the next module. This ensures correct connection and proper polarity. The repelling polarity prevents the magnets from connecting in an improper manner, thereby facilitating connecting the modules in the correct manner.

In another exemplary embodiment, a magnetic connector includes two magnets and three conductors embedded in an injection-molded plastic body. The two magnets serve as polarization and locking elements, while the conductors transmit signals from one circuit board to the next by mating a male and female connector. In the male connector version, the three conductors are spring contacts. In the female connector version, the conductors can be spring contacts or small metal tabs. In either case, the spring contacts or metal tabs come into contact with the spring contacts of the male connector and transmit electrical signals to the circuit boards. The magnetic connector also features an interlocking system in the form of complementary male and female components as part of the plastic housing. In one example, one block includes a male protrusion and a female recess on a second block. The protrusions and recesses cooperate to prevent the blocks from sliding against each other. In another example, each block includes a male protrusion and a female recess, and the male protrusions and female recesses on the interconnected blocks cooperate to prevent the blocks from sliding against each other.

According to one exemplary embodiment, the magnetic connector also features an interlocking system that, as part of the plastic housing, prevents the modules from sliding laterally relative to each other and ensures they are assembled in the correct orientation (i.e., preventing inverted connection). To prevent lateral movement, the connector may include a protrusion on either the male or female side that corresponds to a recess on the corresponding female or male side. Once the modules are connected, the protrusion enters the recess, and the modules are fully locked together to prevent lateral movement. In another embodiment, the connector may include a tab feature to inhibit lateral movement. For example, as shown in FIG12 , the portion of the connector closest to the circuit board (the "base") includes a circular tab that protrudes laterally from the connector and a circular recess adjacent to the tab. The corresponding connector would include a circular tab and recess configured such that when the two connectors are connected, the circular tab of the first connector inserts into the circular recess of the second connector, and the circular recess of the second connector inserts into the circular tab of the first connector, thereby locking the two connectors together to prevent lateral movement. To prevent inverted connection, the connector may include one or more protrusions. For example, as shown in FIG12 , the portion of the connector furthest from the circuit board (the “top”) includes a series of horizontal protrusions. When two modules are connected by a user, the horizontal protrusions on the two modules will align properly. Additionally, due to the circular protrusions on the bottom of the connector, such as shown in FIG12 , if the second connector is connected upside down, the horizontal protrusions of the second connector will hit the circular tabs of the first connector and prevent the two connectors from being improperly connected.

In addition to the aforementioned exemplary connectors, there can be many modifications to the connector including, but not limited to, the housing, the type of conductors used, the number of conductors, whether magnets are used as conductors, the number of magnets, the shape of the magnets, the polarity of the magnets, the way the connector is connected to the block's circuit board, and the like.

To make the system expressive and scalable, rather than limiting creativity, the number of available modules needs to be large. Generally, having only a few nuts and bolts is not very helpful in the prototyping process and can even be hindering. The present invention allows for the addition of new modules based on interconnection and voltage standards. For example, starting with a set of one hundred modules, we can imagine and design hundreds or thousands of additional modules that can be installed and integrated with the existing system to expand the system's functionality. For example, we can potentially build modules such as skin current sensors, arsenic detectors, microcontroller modules, etc., as well as adapter boards or other electronic blocks to build systems and interfaces.

At least one exemplary embodiment has been designed to enable complex behaviors to be programmed through physical interaction. The component features logic and state modules that introduce programming concepts to beginners. Examples of such modules are AND, OR, and NOT blocks, as well as threshold blocks. These blocks enable users to program certain behaviors of their designed systems without having to learn a programming language, write code on a computer, or program microcontroller circuitry. Programming is accomplished by creating decision trees using logic modules. Furthermore, the modules feature controls that enable the selection of behavioral modes, such as switches, knobs, and buttons. Just as a blender has three buttons, each corresponding to a specific speed of the blender motor, some modules of the present invention allow for mode selection or adjustment of their behavior. For example, a proximity sensor block may include a mode switch and a potentiometer. By operating the embedded potentiometer, a threshold level can be set, defining the input voltage level above which the module's output should be "high." Furthermore, by turning a switch, the module can be switched from normally high to normally low, essentially reversing its response to the desired threshold.

All blocks can be designed with space constraints in mind and can be kept to the smallest possible size to make the blocks easy to combine with other materials (e.g., cardboard, plastic, pipe cleaners, etc.) The blocks are user-friendly in their appearance and size, making playing and prototyping with the blocks equally appealing to children and adults, albeit for different purposes.

Modules can be provided as individual blocks or as kits. These modules can range from standard block components to specialized kits (e.g. sensor kits, mechanical kits, biological kits, sound kits, etc.). In addition, users can design and build their own modules or kits to extend the library.

In certain aspects, an electrical connector is provided, comprising a housing defining a side surface, an electrical conductor, a magnet, a protrusion, and a socket, wherein the housing defines a side surface, the electrical conductor is supported by the housing and includes an engagement portion located near the side surface of the housing, wherein the engagement portion is adapted to engage another electrical conductor of another electrical connector, the magnet is supported by the housing near the side surface of the housing, the protrusion extends from the side surface of the housing, and the socket is defined in the side surface of the housing.

In another aspect, an electrical module is provided, comprising a circuit board and an electrical connector. The electrical connector includes a housing defining a side surface, an electrical conductor supported by the housing and comprising a connecting portion and an engaging portion, wherein the connecting portion is adapted to engage and electrically communicate with the circuit board, and wherein the engaging portion is located near the side surface of the housing, the magnet is supported by the housing near the side surface of the housing, the protrusion extends from the side surface of the housing, and the socket is defined in the side surface of the housing.

In other aspects, a system is provided that includes a plurality of electrical modules that are selectively connectable together to transfer electrical current from one electrical module to another electrical module, each module having at least one function associated with the module and including an electrical connector that is adapted to connect to an electrical connector of another electrical module in the electrical modules, wherein the function of at least one electrical module in the plurality of electrical modules is dependent on at least one other electrical module in the plurality of electrical modules using the electrical connectors that are connected together.

In other aspects, a system is provided, which includes a plurality of electrical modules, the plurality of electrical modules being suitable for selectively connecting to each other, wherein the plurality of electrical modules include at least a first electrical module and a second electrical module, the first electrical module including a first circuit board and a first electrical connector, the first electrical connector including a first housing, a first electrical conductor, a first magnet, a first protrusion and a first socket, the first electrical conductor being supported by the first housing and including a first connecting portion and a first engaging portion, wherein the first connecting portion is suitable for engaging with and electrically communicating with the first circuit board, the first magnet being supported by the first housing, the first protrusion extending from the first housing, and the first socket being defined in the first housing. The second electrical module includes a second circuit board and a second electrical connector, the second electrical connector including a second housing, a second electrical conductor, a second magnet, a second protrusion and a second socket, the second electrical conductor being supported by the second housing and including a second connecting portion and a second engaging portion, wherein the second connecting portion is suitable for engaging with and electrically communicating with the second circuit board, the second magnet being supported by the second housing, the second protrusion extending from the second housing, and the second socket being defined in the second housing, wherein, when the first electrical module is connected to the second electrical module, the first magnet is magnetically connected to the second magnet, the first engaging portion engages the second engaging portion, the first protrusion is at least partially positioned within the second socket, and the second protrusion is at least partially positioned within the first socket.

The present invention is capable of various modifications and alternative configurations, some of which are described in detail in the accompanying drawings below. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not intended to be limited to a specific embodiment or form, but rather that the present invention is intended to cover changes, additions, and modifications as part of its scope. After reading the detailed description and accompanying drawings, the unique features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG1 is a top view of an exemplary module of the system;

FIG2 is a side view of the module shown in FIG1 ;

FIG3 is a top view of the set of three modules before the three modules are connected;

FIG4 is a top view of the three modules shown in FIG3 after being connected, illustrating how the modules are connected together using their magnetic connectors;

FIG5 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a magnetic connector of a module;

FIG6 is a top view of the magnetic connector shown in FIG5 ;

FIG7 is an exemplary configuration of four modules;

FIG8 is a top view of an exemplary module of a system featuring controls;

FIG9 is a perspective view of an exemplary set of three modules of the system, including a module illustrating physical programming by a control device;

10 is a perspective view of an exemplary tape packaging kit including a plurality of exemplary modules and an exemplary mounting plate for mounting the modules;

FIG11 is a perspective view of an exemplary wiring module of the system;

FIG12 is a top perspective view of an exemplary output module of the system;

FIG13 is a top perspective view of another exemplary output module of the system;

FIG14 is a top perspective view of an exemplary input module of the system;

FIG15 is a top perspective view of another exemplary input module of the system;

FIG16 is a top perspective view of an exemplary power entry module of the system;

FIG17 is a top perspective view of an exemplary multi-module kit of the system;

FIG18 is a top perspective view of other example modules and another example mounting plate of the example system, each module including at least one other example connector for connecting the modules together;

FIG19 is a bottom perspective view of the two modules shown in FIG18 connected together;

FIG20 is an exploded top view of one of the modules shown in FIG18;

FIG21 is an exploded top view of one of the connectors shown in FIG18;

FIG22 is a bottom perspective view of two exemplary modules connected together and an exemplary support member connected to two connectors;

FIG23 is a top perspective view of the support member shown in FIG22;

FIG24 is a top perspective view of an exemplary mounting plate connected to an exemplary configuration of toy building blocks;

FIG25 is a bottom perspective view of the mounting plate and exemplary toy building block shown in FIG24;

26A-26D are each a schematic illustration of a top view of a different embodiment of a module;

27A-27B are each schematic illustrations of a top view of different embodiments of a module.

Before describing in detail any unique features and embodiments of the present invention, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited in its application to the construction details and component arrangements set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The present invention is capable of other embodiments and can be implemented or realized in various ways. In addition, it should be understood that the words and terms used herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be considered restrictive. For example, directional terms (such as "top", "bottom", "up", "down", "front", "back", etc.) are not intended to be limiting, but are used to describe those exemplary illustrative embodiments herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An exemplary electronic building system 30 is provided. The electronic building system 30 is not only intended for use with pre-designed components and modules 34, but also allows users to combine these modules 34 with other conventional prototyping and entertainment items in a design studio or at home. Such materials may include, for example, paper, cardboard, wood, glue, pipe cleaners, foam, etc., thereby encouraging individuals to treat electronics as materials in the creative process.

In certain exemplary embodiments, system 30 may include at least four different types of modules 34: power, input, output, and wiring; however, there may be many more types of modules 34. Power modules 34 provide power to system 30. Input modules 34 interpret data or its surroundings and provide this input to system 30. Output modules 34 make visual, physical, or audible changes to the surroundings of system 30 based on one or more inputs to system 30. Wiring modules 34 provide power and communication lines between modules 34 in system 30.

According to an exemplary embodiment, when the first module 34 is connected to the second module 34, a power signal is transmitted from the first module 34 to the second module 34. Accordingly, the second module 34 is fully powered by the first module 34. If a button module 34, a sensor module 34, or another module 34 is placed somewhere between the first module 34 and the second module 34, the current flow may be affected by the action of the button module 34 or the sensor module 34. For example, unless a button on the button module 34 is pressed or a sensor on the sensor module 34 is activated, current will not flow from the first module 34 to the second module 34 (or alternatively, current will flow continuously from the first module 34 to the second module 34). Similarly, if the sensor module 34 is only partially activated, only a portion of the current will flow from the first module 34 to the second module 34.

There may be many different types of modules 34 within each category, including but not limited to the following: (i) power modules: wall wart modules, battery modules, solar modules, discharge protection circuits; (ii) input modules: pulse modules, pressure sensor modules, proximity modules, input recording modules, potentiometer modules, button modules, temperature modules, accelerometer modules, memory modules, timer modules; (iii) output modules: motion modules, vibration motor modules, fan modules, RGB LED modules, LED modules, bar graph modules, speaker modules; and (iv) wiring modules: wiring modules of various lengths, extender modules, splitter modules, and electroluminescent wiring modules. Any known type of circuit or electronic component or combination of components may be used to create a module 34 and thus form part of a system 30 constructed using these components.

The modular system 30 described herein is reusable, scalable from small, simple circuits to large, complex circuits, and sophisticated enough to allow for the programming of complex behaviors by manipulating tangible objects (using logic and state modules 34). Additionally, just as programmers use software modules and libraries to create larger and more complex software programs, modules 34 are transformed into a library of electronic components that can be used to create larger and more complex components or systems. In fact, users can expand the modular library almost infinitely, adding any new components they want to use to their modular arsenal.

Users can even create their own modules 34 and add these modules to the rest of the library. For example, according to one exemplary embodiment, the components of a module 34 (e.g., a male magnetic connector 38A and a female magnetic connector 38B that can snap onto or otherwise connect to a small circuit board, sensor, or other electronic component so that the connectors 38A/38B transfer electrical current from one module 34 to another) can be provided to the user, who can use these components to build their own interconnectable modules 34 from circuit boards, sensors, or output mechanisms that they have already built or collected from another source.

According to another exemplary embodiment, a system 30 comprising several modules 34 can be commercialized as a single kit or set. A kit can include one or more different modules 34 (power, input, output, and/or wiring), can include one or more different types of each module 34, a container for storing the modules 34, a mounting plate or baseplate on which the modules are placed or connected, can include educational materials, accessories, instructions, or various other components. For example, a kit can include a small number of modules 34 that can be connected in a virtually unlimited number of combinations to perform a wide range of input and output functions (see Figures 10 and 17). In other exemplary embodiments, a kit can also include a limited number of modules 34 that are intended to be assembled into a limited number of combinations (including a single combination) to perform a limited number of functions. For example, a kit can include as many as dozens, hundreds, or even more modules 34 to form a kit that can be used to construct a functional system, or a kit can include only two modules 34 (a power module and an output module). Alternatively, a kit can be intended to expand an existing module library, in which case the kit can include only one type of module 34, such as a kit containing only wiring modules 34 or only output modules 34. The kit may also be targeted to a specific age group, for example, where a kit targeted to an elementary school age group includes fewer and/or less complex modules 34 than a kit designed for a high school age group. In one exemplary embodiment, the kit may include a guide, video, or other media that informs the user of one or more possible combinations of modules 34. For example, the guide may instruct the user how to assemble the modules 34 into a battery-powered motion sensor that sounds an audible alarm upon detecting motion.

One possible aspect of the exemplary kits, systems, and modules is the extension of the modular platform concept to more complex components. According to one exemplary embodiment, the system 30 is adapted to allow access to complex devices via, for example, a simple three-wire analog interface. Exemplary complex devices may include, but are not limited to, LCD displays, OLED screens, timers, accelerometers, logic gates, and more. This can be achieved by pre-engineering all modules 34 and providing "entry points" into the device. Entry points, for example, are knobs or switches that allow the user to adjust the intensity or frequency of pulses, flip the operating mode, set thresholds, make decisions, or remember configurations, among many other operations. These can be considered "entry points" because they are based on similar devices that people know how to use in their daily lives. The exemplary modular system described herein can take experience and illustrations from consumer electronics (e.g., blenders, DVD players, alarm clocks, game consoles) and apply them to these semi-primitive electronic modules 34. This means that the learning curve for using and creating with the modular system 30 is very low; the user's pre-existing knowledge gained from operating their own consumer electronics can be leveraged to enable the user to program new objects through interaction.

An exemplary entry point may include an OLED screen module 34 that requires an SD card slot into which a user may insert an SD card pre-loaded with images and videos. The OLED screen module 34 may also include an onboard microcontroller that is pre-programmed with firmware to access and display images. Also integrated into the OLED screen module 34 may be a toggle switch and a knob, wherein the toggle switch selects between a fixed image/video or a looping playback, and the knob adjusts the looping playback speed. In the above example, even though the circuit board and firmware themselves may be complex, the end result will be an easy-to-use OLED screen module 34 with symbolic meaning that is easy for children and inexperienced users to understand. For example, the exemplary system 30 may allow for and include the pre-engineering and design of numerous other complex modules 34 similar to the OLED screen example.

Referring now to Figures 1 and 2, an exemplary module or block 34 of an electronic building system 30 is illustrated (the exemplary system 30 shown in Figures 3, 4, 7, 9, and 10). The block 34 shown is a touch switch module 34 or button and illustrates how discrete electronic components can be turned into a block 34. A button component 42 is connected (e.g., soldered) to a printed circuit board 46 having two interfaces (an input interface and an output interface). A magnetic connector is mounted on each of the two interfaces. In some exemplary embodiments, the magnetic connectors can be the same type of connector. In other exemplary embodiments, the connectors can include a male connector 38A located on the input interface side and a female connector 38B located on the output interface side.

The input interface of the tactile switch module 34 in FIG1 is designed to connect to the output interface of the previous module 34, and the output interface of the illustrated module 34 is designed to connect to the input interface of the next module 34. Module 34 features electrical traces designed to complete the connection between the two mating interfaces for power and ground. Signal lines pass through buttons 42, which open or close the circuit and, therefore, transmit the changed signal lines to the output interface corresponding to the module's function. In the exemplary embodiment shown, magnetic connectors 38A/38B are connected (e.g., soldered) to PCB 46 via surface-mount pads. The above figures also illustrate the modular design of system 30 and the connection and communication standards used to manufacture system 30.

An exemplary configuration of an electronic building system 30 is shown in Figures 3 and 4 and includes the exemplary tactile switch module shown in Figures 1 and 2. In these and subsequent figures, different modules will be identified by a common reference number "34" and a letter associated with each different module (e.g., 34C, 34D, 34E, etc.). Similarly, similar components between modules will be identified by similar reference numbers and letters corresponding to the letters associated with the modules (e.g., module 34F, connector 38F, circuit board 46F, etc.).

In Figures 3 and 4, an exemplary tact switch module 34A is shown intermediate between a wall power module 34B and a light-emitting diode (LED) module 34C. Male connector 38A on tact switch module 34A is attracted to female connector 38B on wall power module 34B via a magnetic connector described in detail below. The same connection scheme applies to tact switch module 34A and LED module 34C, which includes a dual-in-line package LED component 50 connected (e.g., soldered) to PCB 46C. When the magnetic connectors in the three illustrated modules 34 are connected together as shown in Figure 4 and a user presses tact switch 42 of switch module 34A, a circuit is completed and LED 50 illuminates. Power module 34B has a power adapter connector 54 that delivers DC voltage to power module 34B. Pre-integrated circuitry in power module 34B then steps down the voltage to the desired voltage, e.g., 5 volts in this example. It should be noted that if the tactile switch module 34A is removed from between the two other modules, the LED module 34C will be attracted to the power module 34B and the LED 50 will remain illuminated. In the above scheme, there is one power block (wall wart), one input block (switch), and one output block (LED). It should be understood that the exemplary blocks 34 can be replaced by other blocks 34 with other functions. For example, the LED block 34C can be replaced by a buzzer block that emits an audible sound when a button is pressed. Utilizing the immediate responsiveness of different blocks and components with different functions, all capable of forming different circuits, hundreds of other combinations can be achieved without the need for programming, soldering, or circuit assembly.

Referring now to Figures 5 and 6, an exemplary embodiment of a magnetic connector is shown. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the connector is a male magnetic connector 38A. The female magnetic connector can be similar to the male connector, except that the female connector can have spring contacts 66 that protrude less from the connector. In certain exemplary embodiments, a pair of magnetic connectors 38A/B is electrically connected to the PCB 46 to provide the modules 34. Alternatively, any number (including one) of magnetic connectors can be electrically connected to the PCB 46 and remain within the intended spirit and scope of the present invention. The illustrated exemplary magnetic connector 38A (here, a male connector) includes a housing 58 within which two magnets 62 are molded with exposed surface poles, serving as polarization and locking elements between the modules 34. In certain exemplary embodiments, the housing 58 can be made of a non-conductive material (e.g., plastic). Embedded within the housing 58 are three electrical conductors or spring contacts 66 responsible for carrying electrical current from one module 34 to the next. Furthermore, and for additional support, the magnetic connector 38A is mounted to the PCB 46 via mounting tabs 70 on both sides of the connector 38A. The male connector described above mates with a similar-looking female connector, but the spring contacts 66 in the female connector can be replaced with metal tabs, with the magnetically exposed surface facing away from the male connector. In other exemplary embodiments, the spring contacts 66 in the female connector can be similar to the spring contacts 66 in the male connector, except that they protrude less from the connector housing 58 than the spring contacts 66 in the male connector. It should also be noted that each connector (both male and female) includes a protrusion 71 and a recess or receptacle 72 in the housing 58. When the connectors are connected together, the protrusion 71 is adapted to insert into and mate with the recess 72 in the other connector. This engagement between the protrusion 71 and the recess 72 prevents the blocks 34 from sliding relative to each other. This design ensures that the blocks 34 are connected together, thereby preventing sliding between the blocks 34 and facilitating proper connection of the blocks 34. Users often face the difficult situation of making mistakes or dangerous electrical connections when working with other electronic components. This makes the electronic building system 30 of the present invention easy to use and user-friendly for children, non-technical personnel, and users with little or no experience with electronics.

Although the connector 38A shown in Figures 5 and 6 includes three spring contacts 66, any number of spring contacts 66 (including only one or more than three) can be used to accommodate current and/or communication from one module 34 to the next module 34. For example, the connector 38A can include four, five, six, or more electrical lines. In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that many devices other than spring contacts can be used to transmit current and/or communication from one module 34 to another module 34. In each system, the female connector 38B can be configured to appropriately accommodate the spring contacts 66 or other current transmission device from the male connector 38A so that current is appropriately transmitted between the connector 38A/B and the module 34. In other exemplary embodiments, the connector may not include a female connector and a male connector, but instead may include two similarly configured connectors that mate and facilitate the transmission of current and/or electrical communication from one module 34 to another module 34.

Referring to FIG7 , another exemplary configuration of a module or block 34 is shown, which provides a pressure sensor module 34D. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the power module is a battery block 34E, such as a button cell battery block. In this block 34E, the button cell battery 82 outputs slightly over 3 volts, which is boosted to 5 volts by an exemplary circuit. The circuit also includes a discharge protection circuit, which illustrates how the electronic building system 30 can be designed to make the system easier to use and safe for the user. The circuit may also include an embedded switch that allows the user to turn the battery block 34E on or off, thereby not wasting battery power. The next block connected to the battery block 34E is a pressure sensor module 34D, which reads the amount of pressure applied to the pressure sensor component 86 and outputs a voltage ranging from 0 to 5 volts based on the applied pressure. The greater the pressure applied to the pressure sensor component 86, the higher the voltage transmitted to the next module. In this example, the next modules include a vibration motor block 34F and an LED block 34G, which vibrate more and illuminate more brightly, respectively, as the applied pressure increases. Figures 3, 4, and 7, among others, illustrate how the electronic building system 30 can be a standalone system and does not require connection to a hardware platform or computer. For example, a child who wants to build their own carnival strength tester can use the exemplary system described above. As more force is applied, either through a finger or a hammer, the toy vibrates more and the LED 98 becomes brighter.

In certain exemplary embodiments, each module 34 may include control and protection circuitry to facilitate safe and convenient operation of the module 34. Additionally, each module 34 may include operational amplifier components used in a buffer configuration to reduce the overall current draw across the entire system 30 of connected modules 34. This helps facilitate cascading of multiple modules 34 without significant power loss, as well as sizing the system 30 as needed. In other exemplary embodiments, the system 30 may include a booster module throughout the entire system of connected modules 34 to increase the current and/or voltage across the power lines and ensure that all modules 34 in the system 30 function properly.

In addition to being able to produce discrete behaviors by cascading modules 34, the electronic building system 30 enables programming of certain behaviors and aesthetics of the modules 34 through a control device. In Figure 8, an exemplary red, green, and blue (RGB) LED block 34H is shown. In this module 34H, the output color of the RGB LED 102 is controlled by the value of a combination of three potentiometers or knobs 106 disposed in the module 34H. By changing the value of each potentiometer (one for red, one for green, and one for blue) using a screwdriver 110 or other device, a user can adjust the LED 102 to a desired color. In other exemplary embodiments, the potentiometers 106 of the block 34H can be disposed off the circuit board itself, and the color of the RGB LED 102 can be changed externally. In other exemplary embodiments, the potentiometers can include knobs or other manually adjustable devices so that no tools are required to perform the adjustments.

FIG9 illustrates another example of programming the behavior of an electronic building system 30 through a control device. Similarly, users can program the behavior of a circuit by manipulating physical components, without having to write code. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a 9-volt battery 114 is shown as part of a power module 341, which is connected to a temperature sensor module 34J that includes a threshold component, and then to an audio module 34K. In this example, the temperature sensor module 34J is more advanced than a traditional sensor module. Block 34J features a potentiometer 118 that can be adjusted to set a temperature threshold. If the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 122 exceeds the set threshold, the module 34J outputs a high reading. This is an example of integrating logic blocks with simpler analog blocks to achieve a complex circuit configuration. In this example, a high reading output from the temperature sensor module 34J will energize the audio module 34K and cause the speaker 126 to play a pre-recorded message associated with the high reading. For example, this exemplary circuit could be used by someone who wants to hear an alarm to turn on the air conditioner. When the temperature exceeds a preset threshold temperature, the audio module 34K will play back the message "It's time to turn on the air conditioner!" In addition, the audio module 34K can be replaced by a fan module that can be activated when a high temperature reading signal is received from the temperature sensor module 34J.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the temperature sensor module may include a mode switch 130 that may switch the behavior of block 34J from "normally low" to "normally high." In contrast to the previously explained configuration (i.e., normally low), the "normally high" setting will cause the module 34J to output a high reading except when the temperature exceeds a threshold. This means that the audio module 34K will play in a loop until the room temperature reaches a warmer temperature, at which point the audio module 34K will stop outputting audio. These controls, in addition to the pre-programmed blocks, logic blocks, and status blocks, will enable the system 30 to implement complex prototypes and circuits without the need for programming or electronics knowledge.

Referring now to FIG. 10 , an exemplary kit 132 is illustrated. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the kit 132 may include a plurality of modules or blocks 34 and a base plate or mounting plate 134 upon which the modules 34 may be placed, supported, and/or connected. The mounting plate 134 may have any size and be made of any material. In certain exemplary embodiments, the mounting plate 134 is made of a non-conductive material. Furthermore, the kit 132 may include a container 138 in which the modules 34 may be stored when not in use. The plurality of blocks 34 and base plate 134 may serve as a starting point for a user to expand the kit or library by creating or acquiring new modules and kits, all of which may be assembled together as part of the electronic building system 30. The above description and figures are intended to serve as examples of the configurations and modules implemented by the system. These descriptions and figures are in no way limiting or definitive, and those skilled in the art will understand and appreciate that variations, combinations, and equivalents of the embodiments, methods, and examples herein exist.

Referring to Figures 11 to 16, modules 34L, 34M, 34N, 34P, 34Q, and 34R can be uniquely constructed to provide the user with a quick visual indication of each module's function. A module can be uniquely constructed in any manner and have any characteristics to identify the module's function. Furthermore, any portion of module 34 can be uniquely constructed and have any characteristics to present a unique construction feature. For example, a module can have characteristics that uniquely identify the module through color coding or patterning, or can include unique structures such as shape, housing, interconnections, or connections. The illustrated exemplary embodiment shows color coding of connectors 38 as an exemplary way to uniquely construct a module to provide a visual indicator of the module's function. However, it should be understood that this exemplary embodiment of color-coded connectors 38 is not restrictive, and modules can be uniquely constructed in any manner and still fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. The function of a module identified by its unique construction and characteristics can be any type or level of function. For example, a unique construction can indicate whether the module is an input module, a power module, a wiring module, an output module, etc. In other embodiments, the unique configuration of the module may be more specific, such as an LED module, a 9-volt battery module, a single cell module, a potentiometer module, a switch module, a pressure sensor module, a pulse module, a button module, a vibration motor module, a wiring module, and the like.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, color coding provides the user with a quick visual confirmation of the module type and module function, and enables the user to know which color combinations are feasible. To represent the connector 38 having various colors in Figures 11 to 16, the connector 38 is shaded in different ways. Shading the connector 38 in different ways to illustrate the various colors is an exemplary way of representing the various colors, but is not restrictive. Other ways of representing different colors are also contemplated, and all such ways are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, the connector 38 can have any color and is not limited to the exemplary colors and associated shading included in the accompanying drawings.

According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG11 , the wiring module 34L may include an orange connector 38L. After reading the instruction manual, receiving the online guide, or through trial and error, the user will learn that the orange connector 38L can be connected to other orange connectors 38L, to the green connectors 38M, 38N of the output modules ( FIG12 shows the bar light 34M, FIG13 shows the vibration motor 34N), and/or to the pink connectors 38P, 38Q of the input modules ( FIG14 shows the pulse module 34P, FIG15 shows the pressure sensor 34Q). Each system 30 will similarly require a power module ( FIG16 shows the wall power module 34R), which according to an exemplary embodiment will include a blue color-coded connector 38R. In the exemplary embodiment shown and referring to FIG17 which illustrates a kit 132 associated with an exemplary system, the kit 132 may include a blue power module 34R, one or more orange wiring modules 34L, a plurality of pink input modules 34P, 34Q, 34S, 34T, and a plurality of green output modules 34M, 34N, 34U, 34V. Other exemplary kits may include any number of modules 34 having any possible functions and are within the intended spirit and scope of the present invention.

Referring now to FIG. 18 , another exemplary system 30 is shown that includes a plurality of exemplary modules 34W, 34X, and 34Y and a mounting plate or base plate 148 on which the modules are connected and supported. The system 30 shown in FIG. 18 can include any type of module described herein or any other type of module having any type of functionality. Therefore, the exemplary modules shown and described herein in conjunction with FIG. 18 are not limiting. The mounting plate 148 can be of any size and can be made of any material. In certain exemplary embodiments, the mounting plate 148 can be 4 inches by 12 inches. In other exemplary embodiments, the mounting plate 148 can be made of any non-conductive material. In other exemplary embodiments, the mounting plate 148 can be broken down or otherwise divided into smaller parts to a desired size suitable for the desired application. In such an embodiment, the mounting plate 148 can be made of a material or have a configuration that enables the mounting plate 148 to be broken down or separated into smaller parts, or the mounting plate 148 can include perforations, areas of reduced thickness, or other structural features that provide predetermined locations that facilitate easy breaking down or separation of the mounting plate 148 into smaller parts.

As described above, the modules are adapted to have various different types of functions and include suitable connectors, circuit boards, and associated electronic components connected to the circuit boards to perform the desired functions. The modules shown in the exemplary embodiment shown are for example and illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. The exemplary modules shown include a wall power module 34W (power), a bar light module 34X (input), and an LED module 34Y (output).

Referring now to Figures 19 to 21, each of the modules 34X and 34Y is shown and each includes a pair of connectors 152 and a circuit board 156 suitable for the desired module function. The modules may include suitable electronic components to perform the desired module function. Each connector 152 includes a housing 160 consisting of two parts 160', 160" (see Figure 21) connected together, a pair of magnets 164, and a plurality of electrical conductors 168. The two parts of the housing 160 can be connected together by various means (e.g., heat staking, ultrasonic welding, bonding, press fit, friction fit, interference fit, snap fit, or other positive locking means) and can be made of a variety of different materials (e.g., plastic (e.g., ABS plastic) or other non-conductive materials). The first part 160' of the housing defines a cavity 172 for accommodating the second part 160" of the housing therein. The cavity 172 is formed complementarily to the second part 160″ to ensure that when the two parts 160′, 160″ are connected together, the top surface 176 of the second part 160″ is substantially flush with the top surface 180 of the first part 160′ (see Figures 20 and 21), and the side surface 184 of the second part 160″ is flush with the side surface 188 of the first part 160′.

The first portion 160' of the housing also defines a pair of magnet apertures 192 (see FIG. 21 ) in its side surface 196, in which magnets 164 are supported. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnets 164 are cylindrical in shape, providing a circular cross-section taken along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the magnets 164. Therefore, the magnet apertures 192 defined in the first portion 160' of the housing are circular in shape. It should be understood that the magnets 164 can have any shape, and the magnet apertures 192 can similarly have any shape that complements the shape of the magnets 164. For example, if the magnets have a square cross-sectional shape, the magnet apertures in the first portion of the housing can have a square shape. In other exemplary embodiments, the magnet apertures can have a shape that is not complementary to the shape of the magnets. In such embodiments, the magnet apertures can have any shape that inhibits the magnets from passing through the magnet apertures and disengaging the connector housing 160. For example, the magnets can have a cylindrical shape, providing a circular cross-section, while the magnet apertures can have a square shape, such that the dimensions of the square are sufficiently small to inhibit the magnets from passing through the apertures.

In addition, the first portion 160' of the housing defines an electrical conductor aperture 200 in its side surface 196 to accommodate and support a portion of the electrical conductor 168 (described in greater detail below). In the exemplary embodiment shown, the electrical conductor aperture 200 is circular in shape and complementary to the shape of the portion of the electrical conductor 168 received therein. Similar to the magnet aperture 192, the electrical conductor aperture 200 can have any shape and be complementary to the shape of the portion of the electrical conductor 168 received therein.

The first portion 160' of the housing defines a plurality of conductor slots 204 (see FIG. 21 ) in its bottom surface 208 for accommodating the conductors 168 therein when the housing 160 is assembled. Each conductor slot 204 includes an upper end 212 having a first dimension, a lower end 216 having a second dimension, and a tapered side surface 220, wherein the second dimension is smaller than the first dimension, and the side surface 220 gradually decreases from the upper end 212 to the lower end 216. The shape of the conductor slots 204 complements the shape of the electrical conductors 168 to provide adequate support for the electrical conductors 168 when the housing 160 is assembled.

In addition, the first portion 160' of the housing includes a pair of protrusions 224 that extend downwardly from the bottom surface 208 of the first portion 160' for connecting the connector 152 to the circuit board 156 of the module 34. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the protrusions 224 are cylindrical in shape and can be inserted into holes 228 (see FIG. 20 ) defined in the circuit board 156. After the protrusions 224 are inserted into the circuit board holes 228, the protrusions 224 can be deformed to inhibit the protrusions from being removed from the holes 228 in the circuit board 156. The protrusions 224 can be deformed in a variety of different ways, such as by melting or heating the protrusions 224, bending, flattening, or any other method sufficient to deform the protrusions 224 to inhibit them from being removed from the holes 228 in the circuit board 156.

The housing 160 further defines a receptacle 232 in its side surface and includes a protrusion 236 extending from the side surface and positioned adjacent to the receptacle 232. Such a receptacle 232 and protrusion 236 are included in each connector housing 160 and assist in properly aligning and connecting the modules 34 together. The receptacle 232 is shaped to complement the shape of the protrusion 236 so that when the protrusion 236 is received in the receptacle 232, the protrusion 236 substantially fills the receptacle 232. When connecting two modules 34 (e.g., modules 34X and 34Y), the connectors 152 are aligned so that the protrusion 236 on each connector 152 substantially aligns with the receptacle 232 on the other connector 152, and the modules 34X and 34Y are moved together until the magnetic force of the four magnets 164 on the two connectors 152 is sufficient to pull the connectors 152 together, thereby inserting the protrusion 236 into the receptacle 232. After connection, the protrusions 236 of the connector 152 and the receptacle 232 cooperate to inhibit substantial lateral and vertical movement of the modules 34X and 34Y relative to each other.

Continuing with reference to Figures 19-21, the first portion 160' of the housing includes a pair of mounting members 240 that extend downwardly from the first portion 160' and are adapted to engage complementary-shaped receptacles 244 defined in the mounting plate 148 (see Figure 18). The mounting members 240 and receptacles 244 are configured to provide adequate support for the module 34 when mounted on the mounting plate 148. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the mounting members 240 have a shape formed from a quarter circle, while the receptacles 244 on the mounting plate 148 are circular in shape (e.g., see Figure 19 for mounting members 240). When two connectors 152 on adjacent modules 34 are connected together, the two mounting members 240 on the two connectors 152 form a semicircular shape that frictionally fits into the receptacles 244 on the mounting plate 148. The circuit board 156 can have various lengths and widths configured to provide appropriate spacing between the module 34 and the mounting plate 148. For example, as shown in FIG18 , the length of the circuit board 156 included in module 34Y is such that, with connectors 152 provided at each end of the circuit board 156, the mounting member 240 on one end of the circuit board 156 is positioned within a receptacle 244 spaced four receptacles apart from the receptacle 244 on the opposite end where the mounting member 240 is positioned. In other words, three receptacles 244 exist between the connectors 152 on opposite ends of the circuit board 156 of module 34Y. In another example, the length of the circuit board 156 included in module 34X shown in FIG18 is greater than that of module 34Y. For module 34X, the connectors 152 on each end of the circuit board 156 are positioned within a receptacle 244 spaced five receptacles apart from the receptacle 244 on the opposite end where the mounting member 240 is positioned. In this example, four receptacles 244 exist between the circuit board 156 on opposite ends of module 34X. Thus, the circuit board 156 may have various lengths while still accommodating appropriate spacing between the receptacles 244 on the mounting plate 148 .

Furthermore, when the two connectors 152 are connected as shown in FIG19 , the outer edge surface 157 of the circuit board 156 can be positioned substantially flush with the outer surface 151 of the connector 152. Alternatively, the outer edge surface of the circuit board can be positioned inwardly or outwardly of the outer surface of the connector. In other words, in such an alternative, the outer edge surface is not flush with the outer surface of the connector.

Continuing with reference to Figures 19-21, the electrical conductors 168 have spring characteristics that allow them to move due to forces applied to them. This spring characteristic, which facilitates movement of the conductors 168, helps maintain contact with the electrical conductors 168 on adjacent modules 34 connected to the current module 34 during operation of the modules 34. This operation can result in forces being applied to the modules 34, causing the modules 34 to move relative to each other. In some embodiments, the electrical conductors 168 on adjacent modules can have different lengths, such that the electrical conductors 168 extend different distances from the housing 160. For example, the length of the electrical conductors 168 shown in Figure 19 is greater than the length of the electrical conductors 168 shown in Figure 20. In such embodiments, a connector 152 having electrical conductors 168 such as that shown in Figure 19 can be connected to a connector 152 having electrical conductors 168 such as that shown in Figure 20. When the two connectors 152 are connected together, the respective electrical conductors 168 can apply a spring force (or biasing force) to each other to substantially maintain the position of the connected set of electrical conductors 168. In other words, as described above with respect to the previous embodiments, the connector 152 can be either a male or female connector and can be mated with another type of connector (e.g., a female or male connector, respectively). In the exemplary embodiment shown, each electrical conductor 168 includes an engagement portion 248 (see FIG. 21 ), a connecting portion 252, and an intermediate portion 256 (see FIG. 21 ), wherein the engagement portion 248 is positioned within the corresponding electrical conductor aperture 200, the connecting portion 252 extends downwardly and is adapted to engage and electrically communicate with the circuit board 156, and the intermediate portion 256 extends between the engagement portion 248 and the connecting portion 252. The engagement portion 248 is adapted to engage with an electrical conductor 168 of an adjacent module 34 connected to the current module 34. Because the electrical conductors 168 are made of a conductive material, electrical current is transported through the electrical conductors 168 of the current module 34 to its circuit board 156. Each electrical conductor 168 includes an enlarged portion 260 (see FIG. 21 ) positioned between the ends of the conductor 168 that fit into the corresponding conductor slot 204. The enlarged portion 260 has a complementary shape to the conductor slot 204 to provide vertical and horizontal support for the electrical conductors 168 when the housing 160 is assembled. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the enlarged portion 260 includes a tapered portion 264 that is complementary to the tapered surface 220 of the conductor slot 204 (see FIG. 21 ).

Referring now to Figures 22 and 23, a support member 268 is connected to two connected modules 34 to provide additional support for the connected modules 34. In some exemplary embodiments, the support member 268 is used instead of the mounting plate 148 to provide additional support to the modules 34. In other exemplary embodiments, the support member 268 can be configured such that both the support member 268 and the mounting plate 148 together provide support to the two connected modules 34. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the support member 268 includes a pair of receptacles 280 defined in its top surface 276 to accommodate the mounting members 240 of the connected modules 34. The receptacles 280 in the support member 268 are of similar size and shape and are similarly spaced apart from the receptacles 244 in the mounting plate 148. The support member 268 also has a height H such that, when the two modules 34 are connected to each other and to the support member 268, the top surface 276 of the support member 268 is substantially flush with and mates with or engages with the bottom surface 288 of the housing 160. Also in the illustrated exemplary embodiment, support member 268 includes a width W1 and a length L1, where width W1 approximates the width W2 of two connected connectors 152 and length L1 approximates the length L2 of two connected modules 34. Alternatively, the configuration of support member 268 may differ from the illustrated exemplary embodiment, so long as support member 268 provides support to the connected modules 34. When multiple modules 34 in system 30 are connected together, support member 268 may be connected to each pair of connected connectors 152 in system 30. Thus, any number of support members 268 may be included in system 30 and remain within the intended spirit and scope of the present invention.

The exemplary system 30 disclosed herein is suitable for interoperability with other types of systems to provide the functionality and features of the exemplary system 30 to other types of systems. The exemplary system 30 can interoperate with any type of other system and is within the intended spirit and scope of the present invention. Referring to Figures 24 and 25, an exemplary mounting plate 148 of the exemplary system 30 of the present invention is shown interoperable with a toy building block system 292 (e.g., building block system 292). The exemplary system is not intended to be limiting, but rather exemplary and illustrative. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the mounting plate 148 is configured to interoperate with the exemplary building block system 292 and, specifically, to connect to the building block system 292. A first side 296 (e.g., the top side) of the mounting plate 148 includes a plurality of receptacles 244 suitably spaced apart to accommodate the connectors 152 of the modules 34. A second side 298 (e.g., the bottom side) of the mounting plate 148 includes a plurality of protrusions 300 defining cavities 304 therein and suitably spaced apart from one another to facilitate connection to the building block system 292. As indicated above, the system 30 of the present invention may be connected to any type of other system, and thus the second side 298 of the mounting plate 148 may be configured in any manner to accommodate any type of other system to which the mounting plate 148 is to be connected.

It should be noted that the structures, features, functions, and other characteristics of the various exemplary embodiments of the systems disclosed herein and illustrated in Figures 1 to 25 can be combined with one another in any manner and in any combination, all of which are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, adapter(s) or foot members can be included to adjust the height of the connector so that different connector embodiments can be connected to a common circuit board or different circuit board/connector combinations can be connected together. For example, an adapter can be attached to the bottom of connector 38A (see Figure 5) to increase the length or height of connector 38A so that connector 38A can be connected to circuit board 156 together with connector 152. In another example, an adapter can be attached to the bottom of connector 38M (see Figure 12) to increase the length or height of connector 38M relative to the circuit board so that connector 38M can be connected to a different circuit board 156 having connector 152. Such an adapter can, for example, be adhesively attached to the bottom of connector 38A or connector 38M. In some embodiments, the adapter may include a mounting member or portion similar to the mounting member 240 described above so that the adapter can be engaged with a complementary formed socket (e.g., the socket 244 described above) defined in a mounting plate (e.g., the mounting plate 148 shown in Figure 18).

Although embodiments of module 34 are shown and described as having connectors (e.g., connectors 38 and 152) connected to one end or two opposing ends or edges of a circuit board (e.g., circuit boards 46 and 156), in other embodiments, module 34 can include connectors connected to more than two ends or edges of a circuit board. For example, Figures 26A-26D are each a top schematic view of a module including a circuit board and one or more connectors. The modules of Figures 26A-26D can include various different embodiments of connectors and/or circuit boards described herein.

Figure 26A shows a module 334A comprising a circuit board 356A and one connector 352A, with connector 352A connected to a single edge or end of circuit board 356A. Figure 26B shows a module 334B comprising a circuit board 356B and two connectors 352B, with both connectors 352B connected to a single edge or end of circuit board 356B. Figure 26C shows a module 334C comprising a circuit board 356C and three connectors 352C, with the three connectors 352C connected to three different edges or ends of circuit board 356C. Figure 26D shows a module 334D comprising a circuit board 356D and four connectors 352D, with the four connectors 352D connected to four different edges or ends of circuit board 356D.

Figures 27A and 27B are schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a module, illustrating the side edges of a circuit board relative to the side edges or surfaces of connectors. Figure 27A shows a module 434A having a circuit board 456A and two connectors 452A, with the two connectors 452A connected to the circuit board 456A. In this embodiment, when the connectors 452A are connected to the circuit board 456A, the side edges 457A of the circuit board 456A are positioned inward of the side edges or surfaces 451A of the connectors 452A. Although not shown, in other embodiments, the side edges of the circuit board may be positioned outward of the side edges or surfaces of the connectors. Figure 27B shows a module 434B having a circuit board 456B and two connectors 452B, with the two connectors 452B connected to the circuit board 456B. In this embodiment, when the connectors 452B are connected to the circuit board 456B, the side edges 457B of the circuit board 456B are positioned substantially flush with the side edges or surfaces 451B of the connectors 452B.

As described above in many examples of modules and systems, numerous modules can be connected together to implement various functions in each system. Modules can be connected in a cascaded fashion, where one module in the system can affect the function of a downstream module in a first manner, while a different module in the system can affect the function of a downstream module in a different manner. In other words, the connected modules in a system can depend on each other to affect the function of those modules and the entire system. A simple example illustrating this concept, but not intended to be limiting, includes a system comprising three modules: a power module, a button module, and an LED module. The button module and the LED module depend on the power module, and the LED module depends on the button module. To illustrate the dependency of the button module and the LED module on the power module, consider the following scenario: if the power module does not provide any power, neither the button module nor the LED module can operate in their intended manner. Similarly, to illustrate the dependency of the LED module on the button module, if the button is not pressed or otherwise activated to complete the circuit, the LED module will not illuminate; if the button is pressed, the LED module will illuminate. In other words, the cascaded modules in a system affect the operation and function of downstream modules.

The above description is presented for the purpose of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. These descriptions are selected to explain the principles of the invention and its practical application so that those skilled in the art can utilize the invention in various embodiments and modifications suitable for the intended specific application. Although specific configurations of the present invention have been shown and described, other alternative configurations will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are within the intended scope of the invention.

Claims (34)

1. An electronic construction device, the electronic construction device comprising: A first circuit board has a first side, a second side opposite to the first side, a first end, and a second end opposite to the first end, wherein the first side and the second side are each different from the first end and the second end; A first connector is mounted to one of the first side or the second side of the first circuit board; and The second connector is mounted to either the first end or the second end of the first circuit board. The first connector includes at least one conductor configured to contact a conductor on a connector connected to a second circuit board, and the second connector includes at least one conductor configured to contact a conductor on a connector connected to a third circuit board. At least one conductor of the first connector has (1) an engagement portion configured to engage with a conductor on the connector of the second circuit board, and (2) a connection portion integrally formed with the engagement portion and configured to electrically connect the first circuit board. 2. The electronic construction device according to claim 1, wherein: The first connector includes a first mounting member configured to be received within a first opening of a plurality of openings defined in a mounting plate, and a second mounting member configured to be received within a second opening of the plurality of openings defined in the mounting plate. The second connector includes a first mounting member configured to be received within a third opening of the plurality of openings defined in the mounting plate, and a second mounting member configured to be received within a fourth opening of the plurality of openings defined in the mounting plate. 3. The electronic construction device according to claim 1, further comprising: A mounting plate having a first side defining a plurality of openings and a second side including a plurality of protrusions. The first connector and the second connector are each configured to be removably connected to a first side of the mounting plate. The second side of the mounting plate is configured to be removably connected to at least one component of the modular building block system. 4. The electronic assembly apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first connector has a first height and includes a first mounting member and a second mounting member, the first mounting member and the second mounting member being respectively configured to be received within different openings defined in a mounting plate, the apparatus further comprising: A first adapter, configured to connect to the bottom surface of the first mounting component; and A second adapter, configured to connect to the bottom surface of the second mounting component. When the first adapter and the second adapter are connected to the first connector, the first connector has a second height that is greater than the first height. 5. The electronic assembly device according to claim 1, wherein the second connector comprises a first mounting component and a second mounting component, and the device further comprises: Second circuit board; and A connector mounted to the end of the second circuit board, the connector of the second circuit board including a first mounting component and a second mounting component. The first mounting component of the second connector is configured to be received within a first opening of a plurality of openings defined in the mounting plate, and the second mounting component of the second electrical connector is configured to be received within a second opening of the plurality of openings to removably connect the first circuit board to the mounting plate. The first mounting component of the connector mounted to the second circuit board is configured to be received within the first opening, and the second mounting component of the connector mounted to the second circuit board is configured to be received within the second opening to removably connect the second circuit board to the mounting plate. 6. The electronic construction device according to claim 1, wherein: The first connector includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion of the first connector. The second connector includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion of the second connector. 7. The electronic construction device according to claim 1, wherein: The first connector includes a first housing that is fixedly mounted to one of the first side or the second side of the first circuit board. The second connector includes a second housing that is fixedly mounted to one of the first or second ends of the second circuit board. 8. An electronic construction module, the electronic construction module comprising: Circuit board; A connector, which is mounted to one side of the circuit board, the connector having a side surface; The connector has a housing and a conductor disposed at least partially inside the housing, the conductor having (1) a engagement portion extending from the side surface and (2) a connecting portion extending from other surfaces of the connector, the engagement portion and the connecting portion being integrally formed; The connecting portion is electrically connected to the circuit board; When the bonding portion of the conductor is adjacent to and in contact with the side surface of the connector of the electronic assembly module and the side surface of the connector of the other electronic assembly module, the bonding portion of the conductor engages with the bonding portion of the other electronic assembly module. 9. The electronic assembly module according to claim 8, wherein, The connector includes a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion configured to removably connect the connector to the mounting plate. 10. The electronic assembly module according to claim 9, wherein, The first and second mounting portions of the connector are configured to complementarily engage with the first and second portions of the mounting plate, respectively. 11. The electronic assembly module according to claim 9, wherein, The first mounting portion of the connector is located at the first corner of the circuit board, and the second mounting portion of the connector is located at the second corner of the circuit board. 12. The electronic assembly module according to claim 11, wherein, The circuit board is defined by a first cutout at a first corner and a second cutout at a second corner. The first mounting portion of the connector is at least partially disposed within the first cutout of the circuit board, and the second mounting portion of the connector is at least partially disposed within the second cutout of the circuit board. 13. The electronic assembly module of claim 8, wherein the housing of the connector includes a pair of protrusions configured to connect to the circuit board, the pair of protrusions of the housing deforming to prevent the housing from dislodging from the circuit board. 14. The electronic construction module according to claim 8, wherein, The side surface of the connector includes a first extension portion extending in a vertical direction and a second extension portion extending in a horizontal direction. The first extension portion and the second extension portion of the connector are configured to contact the first extension portion and the second extension portion of the connector of the other electronic assembly module, respectively, when the side surface of the connector of the electronic assembly module is adjacent to and in contact with the side surface of the connector of the other electronic assembly module. 15. The electronic assembly module according to claim 8, wherein, The connector includes a mounting portion configured to removably connect the connector to a component of a modular building block system different from the electronic building module. 16. The electronic assembly module according to claim 15, wherein, The connector's mounting portion is a first mounting portion of the connector and is configured to be received within a first opening defined in the support member, the connector including a second mounting portion configured to be received within a second opening defined in the support member. 17. The electronic assembly module according to claim 8, wherein, The connector is a first connector, and the circuit board has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. The first connector is mounted to one of the first end or the second end of the circuit board, and the electronic assembly module further includes: A second connector is mounted to one of the first or second ends of the circuit board and is electrically connected to the circuit board. 18. The electronic assembly module according to claim 8, wherein, The connector housing includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion connected to the first housing portion of the connector. 19. An electronic construction device, the electronic construction device comprising: First circuit board; A first connector having a first conductor extending outwardly from a side surface of the first connector, the first connector being mounted to the first circuit board. Second circuit board; and A second connector, having a second conductor extending outwardly from a side surface of the second connector, is mounted to the second circuit board. The first conductor and the second conductor each include a engagement portion and a connection portion integrally formed with the engagement portion. The engagement portion of the first connector is configured to engage the engagement portion of the second connector when the first connector is removably connected to the second connector. The connection portion of the first connector engages and is electrically connected to the first circuit board, and the connection portion of the second conductor engages and is electrically connected to the second circuit board. 20. The electronic construction apparatus according to claim 19, wherein: The first connector includes a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion configured to removably connect the first connector to a mounting plate. The second connector includes a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion configured to removably attach the second connector to the mounting plate. 21. The electronic construction apparatus according to claim 20, wherein: The first mounting portion and the second mounting portion of the first connector are configured to complementarily mate with the first portion and the second portion of the mounting plate, respectively. The first and second mounting portions of the second connector are configured to complementarily engage with the third and fourth portions of the mounting plate, respectively. 22. The electronic construction apparatus according to claim 20, wherein: The first mounting portion of the first connector is located at the first corner of the first circuit board, and the second mounting portion of the first connector is located at the second corner of the first circuit board. The first mounting portion of the second connector is located at the first corner of the second circuit board, and the second mounting portion of the second connector is located at the second corner of the second circuit board. 23. The electronic construction apparatus according to claim 22, wherein: The first circuit board is defined by a first cutout at a first corner and a second cutout at a second corner. The first mounting portion of the first connector is at least partially disposed within the first cutout of the first circuit board, and the second mounting portion of the first connector is at least partially disposed within the second cutout of the first circuit board. The second circuit board is defined by a first cutout at the second corner of the second circuit board and a second cutout at the second corner of the second circuit board. The first mounting portion of the second connector is at least partially disposed within the first cutout of the second circuit board, and the second mounting portion of the second connector is at least partially disposed within the second cutout of the second circuit board. 24. The electronic assembly apparatus of claim 19, wherein the first connector includes a first housing fixedly mounted to the first circuit board, and the second connector includes a second housing fixedly mounted to the second circuit board. 25. The electronic construction apparatus according to claim 19, wherein: The first connector has a first housing including a pair of protrusions capable of connecting to the first circuit board, the pair of protrusions of the first housing deforming to prevent the first housing from detaching from the first circuit board. The second connector has a second housing including a pair of protrusions that can be connected to the second circuit board, the pair of protrusions of the second housing deforming to prevent the second housing from detaching from the second circuit board. 26. The electronic assembly apparatus of claim 19, wherein the first connector includes a first housing connected to the first circuit board, and the second connector includes a second housing connected to the second circuit board, each of the first housing and the second housing including a first housing portion connected to the second housing portion. 27. An electronic construction device, comprising: Circuit board; A first connector, having a first conductor extending at least partially from a side surface of the first connector, is mounted to the circuit board. The first conductor has a joining portion and a connecting portion integrally formed with the joining portion. The joining portion of the first connector is configured to engage the joining portion of the second connector when the first connector is removably connected to the second connector. The connecting portion of the first conductor engages with and is electrically connected to the circuit board. 28. The electronic construction apparatus according to claim 27, wherein, The first connector includes a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion configured to removably connect the first connector to the mounting plate. 29. The electronic construction apparatus according to claim 28, wherein, The first mounting portion and the second mounting portion of the first connector are configured to complementarily engage with the first portion and the second portion of the mounting plate, respectively. 30. The electronic construction apparatus according to claim 28, wherein, The first mounting portion of the first connector is disposed at the first corner of the circuit board, and the second mounting portion of the first connector is disposed at the second corner of the circuit board. 31. The electronic construction apparatus according to claim 30, wherein, The circuit board is defined by a first cutout at a first corner and a second cutout at a second corner. The first mounting portion of the first connector is at least partially disposed within the first cutout of the circuit board, and the second mounting portion of the first connector is at least partially disposed within the second cutout of the circuit board. 32. The electronic assembly apparatus of claim 27, wherein the first connector includes a first housing, the first housing being fixedly mounted to the circuit board. 33. The electronic construction apparatus according to claim 27, wherein, The first connector includes a first housing with a pair of protrusions configured to connect to the circuit board, the pair of protrusions of the first housing deforming to prevent the first housing from detaching from the circuit board. 34. The electronic assembly apparatus of claim 27, wherein the first connector includes a first housing connected to the circuit board, the first housing including a first housing portion connected to a second housing portion.