Magnetic Construction Toy

Abstract

A construction toy is provided, with illustrated panels that connect together magnetically to assemble two- and three-dimensional structures and background scenery, optionally with accessory items that bind magnetically or mechanically to the panels to embellish the structures or scenes that are created.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The invention relates to a construction toy, in particular a toy that includes illustrated panels that connect magnetically at their edges to construct structures or scenes.BACKGROUND[0002]Construction toys, or building sets, have long provided children with educationally enriching play. Through the act of building, kids develop foundational science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills such as spatial reasoning and decision making Magnetic construction toys such as Magformers®, Tegu®, and Magna-Tiles® have made building more accessible to children by having pieces that join magnetically without the need for precise dexterity that is often required when assembling with plastic building bricks such as Lego® or even plain wooden blocks that can easily topple. These existing magnetic construction toys are composed of abstract plastic or wood shapes (panels) that can be combined magnetically to form a larger structure.[0003]Existing panel type magne...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a construction toy set that offers building and play opportunities through magnetically connected panels. The panels have illustrations that serve as jumping off points for stories and play. The panels can be combined in any way the child chooses, and magnetic accessory items can be added to customize the scene. The freedom of configuration and the optional magnetic accessory items increase replayability as children modify the story context and experiment with different designs. Furthermore, the panels have holes between them to facilitate pulling them apart, and the panels can also have gaps between them to make them easier to stack and separate. Overall, the invention provides a flexible and customizable toy set that can provoke creative play and reimagine the world around us.

Problems solved by technology

Existing panel type magnetic building sets do a good job in getting kids to build structures, but they fall short in the opportunity to create long-term engagement by involving children in narrative development.

The structures that are formed are abstract, which makes it difficult for many children to engage in imaginative play with the structures.

GeoMag® has made a few attempts with themed magnetic building sets, but these sets are cumbersome to play with as there are many small parts required for assembly since the magnets are separate pieces rather than being housed within the shapes / panels.

In addition to a deficiency in providing thematic backdrops for imaginative play, existing magnetic construction toys present a number of challenges for getting building pieces to magnetically attract regardless of orientation.

WO 2010111189 A1), which limits the way the child can combine panels.

This allows for panels to connect regardless of orientation but requires expensive Neodynium magnets, which also pose a safety risk to children due to their strength.

This works to provide the child with freedom of choice but creates an inconvenience with additional small parts to keep track of as well as posing a choking and swallow hazard.

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