HK1145661B

HK1145661B - A toy construction system

Info

Publication number: HK1145661B
Application number: HK10112116.2A
Authority: HK
Inventors: Erik Hansen; Gaute Munch; Tommy Christian Pedersen
Original assignee: 乐高公司
Priority date: 2007-10-11
Filing date: 2008-10-06
Publication date: 2014-01-17

Description

Toy building system

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a toy building system comprising building elements and coupling mechanisms (coupling means) for releasably interconnecting the building elements.

Background

Such toy building systems have been known for decades. Specialized building elements with a particular appearance or mechanical or electronic functionality to enhance game value have been a complement to simple building blocks. Such functions include, for example, motors, switches, and light bulbs, but may also include a programmable processor that accepts input from sensors and may activate functional elements in response to received sensor input.

Self-contained functional building elements already exist, having: a functional device adapted to perform a preconfigured function, an energy source to provide energy to the functional device to perform the function, and a trigger to trigger the functional device to perform the function in response to an external trigger event. Typically, such known function building elements are designed to manually activate the trigger and provide only limited play value.

There are toy building systems that comprise a plurality of building elements including: each performing a respective function, and each controlling one or more function building elements, each building element comprising at least one connector for electrically connecting the building element with another building element via a respective connector of the other building element, the connector comprising at least one control signal contact.

In order to provide an interesting gaming experience, it is generally desirable to provide such a toy construction system that allows a user to construct a variety of models that differ in appearance as well as function.

For example, a programmable toy is known from the robot INVENTION SYSTEM (robot INVENTION SYSTEM) from the product "LEGO MINDSTORMS", which is a toy that can be programmed by a computer to perform both unconditional and conditional actions.

However, the above-described prior art toy has a problem in that a complicated construction element and a central processing unit storing and executing a program are required, thereby making the system relatively expensive.

US 6,773,322 discloses a modular toy building system comprising different input and output units. These units are connected to a transceiver/controller module which in turn communicates with a computer which can control the modular units.

However, the above-described prior art systems require relatively complex configuration and programming processes, and the generation of programs requires a relatively high level of familiarity with computers and a correspondingly high level of abstract cognitive abilities in order to program the desired behaviors, thereby limiting such toys to play by older children and/or children familiar with computers.

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a toy building system that includes functional elements that can be configured and controlled in a number of different ways and in a manner that is easily understood by children.

It is further desirable to provide a toy construction system with new construction elements that are suitable for use in the system and will enhance the play value of the system.

It is further desirable to provide a toy building system with building elements that are suitable for use in the system and that provide high play value without high manufacturing costs.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect, embodiments of the present invention relate to a toy construction system comprising:

a plurality of releasably interconnected building elements, including one or more function building elements each performing a respective function, each function building element including a control connection in communication with one or more other building elements of the toy building system;

a data processing system having stored therein computer program code adapted to, when executed by said data processing system, cause said data processing system to provide a programming environment for generating one or more logical commands for controlling one or more functional elements;

an interface construction element comprising:

● a first connection mechanism for providing a data stream connection to the data processing system and receiving the logical command from the data processing system;

● a processing unit adapted to convert the logic command into a control signal controlling a function of the at least one function building element; and

● second connection means for providing a control connection with the at least one function building element via the control connection means of the function building element and outputting a control signal;

wherein the interface construction element is adapted to detect at least the presence of the function construction element releasably connected to the interface construction element; and sending information to the data processing system indicating at least the presence of the connected function building element; and wherein the computer program code is adapted to cause the data processing system to provide a suitable programming environment in response to receiving information relating to the presence of at least the connected function building element.

The interface construction element may send information periodically and/or in another suitable manner as requested by the data processing system.

Thus, the user can explore the possibilities of the newly created structure immediately without going through the tedious setup and configuration process initially. Since the interface assembly element automatically detects the connected building elements, the programming environment may be adapted for the connected devices, e.g., to provide context-dependent assistance, enable/disable certain functions or displays in response to detected building elements, etc. Thus, even a user who is not very experienced in the computer software and hardware can easily learn how to control the built structure from the computer.

A further advantage is that the interface construction element functions only as an interface element, while all high-level logic is performed by the data processing system, so that the interface construction element can be produced from uncomplicated, inexpensive components.

When the interface construction element further detects and transmits information about the type and/or operating state of the connected construction elements, the programming environment may be further adapted by, for example, displaying graphical and/or iconic representations of the connected construction elements and their respective operating states.

The first connection mechanism may comprise a first connector for electrically connecting the interface construction element with the data processing system and receiving the logic command from the data processing system, thereby providing a simple and reliable connection.

When the interface construction element is further configured to receive power from the data processing system via the first connector, no additional power source is required in the interface construction element.

The connection may include a connection according to a suitable peripheral interface standard used throughout a cable, e.g., bi-directional serial transmission, to communicate between a computer and a peripheral, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection, firewire connection, etc.

In some embodiments, the programming environment comprises a visual programming environment, thereby providing a system that is easy to use even for inexperienced users.

Generally, a Visual Programming Language (VPL) is a programming language that lets users specify programs by manipulating program elements graphically rather than by specifying them verbally. The VPL allows programming by visual representation, spatial arrangement of graphical symbols, and optionally text. Many VPLs are based on active display objects such as, for example, icon or symbol cells interconnected directly or by line segments, arrows, etc. Examples of VPLs include icon-based languages, table-based languages, and graphical languages. The term "visual programming environment" means a programming environment that provides graphical or iconic elements that can be manipulated by a user to define a computer program or other form of computer-executable instructions. The manipulation of these units is typically interactive and typically follows a predetermined spatial grammar for program building.

In some embodiments, the control connection means comprises at least one connector for electrically connecting the function building element with another building element of the toy building system via a corresponding connector of the other building element. The connector may include at least one control signal contact/terminal/port.

In some embodiments, the function building element is a controllable function element and comprises an input connector for receiving a control signal and is adapted to perform a function in response to receiving the control signal; and an output connector adapted to forward the receive control signal. Thus, a plurality of function building elements may be controlled by the data processing system via a single interface building element, or simply by connecting one function building element with another function building element, so as to obtain a column or a string of interconnected function building elements. Thus, the control signal fed from the interface construction element into the first one of the list of function construction elements is forwarded to all function construction elements without additional wiring or programming/configuration.

Thus, the function building element may comprise a function device adapted to perform a preconfigured function, which function may be selected from a number of possible functions comprising, for example, mechanical and/or electrical functions.

According to a second aspect, embodiments of the present invention relate to a toy construction product comprising:

a plurality of releasably interconnectable building elements, including one or more function building elements each performing a respective function, each function building element including a control connection in communication with one or more other building elements of the toy building product;

a computer readable medium having stored therein computer program code adapted to, when executed by a data processing system, cause the data processing system to provide a programming environment for generating one or more logic commands for controlling one or more functional elements;

an interface construction element comprising:

wherein the interface construction element is adapted to detect at least the presence of the function construction element releasably connected to the interface construction element; and sending information to the data processing system indicating at least the presence of the connected function building element; and wherein the computer program code is adapted to cause the data processing system to provide a suitable programming environment in response to receiving information relating to the presence of at least the connected function building element. According to a third aspect, disclosed herein is an interface construction element for a toy construction system, the toy construction system comprising a plurality of construction elements including one or more function construction elements each performing a respective function, each function construction element including at least one connector for electrically connecting the function construction element with another construction element of the toy construction system via a respective connector of the other construction element; the interface construction element includes:

● a first connector for electrically connecting the interface construction element with a data processing system and receiving logic commands from the data processing system for controlling one or more function construction elements of the toy construction system;

● a second connector for electrically connecting the interface construction element with one of the at least one connector of the at least one function construction element and outputting a control signal;

wherein the first connector is further adapted to receive power from the data processing system to drive the function of the function building element; wherein the second connector is further adapted to output the received power; and wherein the interface construction element includes a power control circuit that controls power output by the interface construction element.

Thus, no separate power supply like a battery is needed in the various building elements, as they are all powered by the data processing system via the interface building element. This reduces the cost of producing the components, while increasing play value and reducing ownership costs, since the user does not need to purchase and replace a large number of batteries.

The provision of power control circuitry enables an open toy construction system in which a user can connect a wide variety and variable number of functions and other types of construction elements to the interface construction element without overloading the power supply provided by the data processing system.

According to a fourth aspect, disclosed herein is a toy construction system comprising:

● a plurality of construction elements including one or more function construction elements each performing a respective function;

● one or more output construction elements each generating an output signal; and

● each controls one or more control building elements of the one or more function building elements,

each building element comprising at least one connector for electrically connecting the building element with another building element of the toy building system via a respective connector of the other building element;

wherein each function building element comprises an input connector for receiving a control signal and is adapted to perform a function in response to receiving the control signal; wherein each output construction element comprises an output connector outputting an output signal; and wherein each control construction element comprises a configurable connector adapted to selectively output a control signal for controlling at least one function construction element and to receive an output signal from said at least one output construction element; and wherein the control building element comprises circuitry to detect at least the type of building element connected to the control building element via the configurable connector; and wherein the control building element is adapted to configure the configurable connector in response to the detected type. Thus, the connector of the control building element is selectively operative as a data input and output connector, allowing both function building elements like sensor building elements and output building elements to be connected to the same connector without manually configuring the connector as an input or an output. The risk of incorrect wiring when building a game structure is thus greatly reduced, which is of great benefit to children who are vulnerable to frustration when the built structure does not directly play the intended role. Furthermore, the configurable connectors enable the same physical design to be used for all connectors, thus enabling more cost-effective production.

The control building element may be an interface building element as described herein, or a stand-alone, e.g. self-contained or autonomous, control building element that controls one or more functional elements.

In some embodiments, at least one output connector of a construction element comprises a power contact adapted to provide output power for supplying power to one or more construction elements; and wherein the input connector of each building element comprises a power contact adapted to receive power and, optionally, to feed received power to the function building element. Thus, power received from a data processing system as described herein via the interface construction element may be supplied to a plurality of other construction elements.

Alternatively, or in addition, the power supply building element may be equipped solely for providing power, or the power supply building element may supply both power and control signals via its output connector. Thus, the power supply building element may further function as a control building element.

The connectors that electrically connect the building elements with other building elements may be in the form of inserts or sockets, or any other suitable means of terminating or connecting the wires of the various wires or cables and providing a means for the wires to extend to the mating connector. To this end, the connector may include a large number of contacts arranged in a predetermined manner, i.e., a predetermined number, spacing, arrangement, etc., in the connector body. Each contact may be provided as any suitable conductive member configured to provide electrical contact with a corresponding contact in another connector when the connectors are mated for the purpose of conveying electrical energy and/or control signals.

When each function building element comprises a stackable connector element comprising input and output connectors of the function building element, a unified connection mechanism is provided that facilitates the connection of a plurality of different function, output, sensor and/or control building elements. In particular, the unified stackable connector elements provide a unified connection mechanism that is independent of the shape and size of the function or control building elements or the like.

In particular, in one embodiment, each build element comprising a stackable connector comprises a build element body comprising an electrical circuit; and the stackable connector elements are electrically connected to the electrical circuit via an extension cable, e.g., a flexible cable. Thus, the building element body may be at a position offset from the connection point at which the stackable connector element is normally connected to a stack of stackable connector elements originating from a power supply building element and/or an interface building element and/or a control building element. Thus, greater flexibility in building the toy model may be achieved. Furthermore, when connecting the stackable connector element with the building element body of the function or control building element by means of a flexible extension cable, a great flexibility can be achieved in the shape and size of the building element body and its position within the toy building model. In particular, the shape, size and location of the building element body is not limited by the requirement that the connector must be accessible in order to connect with another connector.

When the stackable connector is adapted to receive power from an input connector of the stackable connector and to feed the received power to an output connector of the stackable connector element, no additional wiring is required to distribute independent power to those function building elements that require more power than is provided by a control signal.

In some embodiments, the stackable connector element of each function building element is adapted to receive a control signal from an input connector of the stackable connector element and to feed the received control signal to the function building element and to an output connector of the stackable connector element so as to provide a direct control signal path from the input connector to the output connector. Thus, a string of function building elements can be easily established in a uniform manner by stacking the connector elements on top of each other or in any other suitable orientation, e.g. one next to the other. Thus, a control building element like an interface building element may affect all function building elements that are dropped from the output connectors of said control building element in an uninterrupted sequence/stack.

In some embodiments, the plurality of building elements of the toy building system further comprises one or more sensor building elements, each comprising one or more input interfaces and/or sensors responsive to a physical event; and each comprising an output connection for communicating with one or more other building elements of the toy building system and outputting an output signal indicative of the detected physical event. The input interface and/or sensor may comprise any suitable circuitry, device or arrangement suitable for detecting an input from a user or another device, sensing a characteristic of an environment, or the like.

Examples of such activation interfaces/sensors include buttons, sliders, or other mechanical switches, shock sensors, tilt sensors, touch sensors, impact sensors, light sensors, proximity detectors, thermometers, microphones, pressure sensors, pneumatic sensors, bus bridges, inductive inputs, e.g., inputs activated by a tag, radio receivers, cameras, receivers of a remote control system (e.g., infrared remote controls, etc.), or combinations thereof. Thus, a simple and modular mechanism is provided that enables user-defined functionality, thereby providing a variety of interesting game scenarios.

In some embodiments, the toy construction system further comprises an expansion element comprising a stackable connector element, a further output connector, and an electrical expansion element such as an extension cable/wire. The stackable connector element comprises an input connector and an output connector, and the stackable connector element of the expansion element is adapted to receive control signals from the input connector of the stackable connector element and to feed the received control signals via the electrical expansion element to the further output connector and to the output connector of the stackable connector element. The extension element can thus be used as a function and/or control building element for extending cables and/or for dropping out parallel stacks/columns.

According to another aspect, disclosed herein is a control building element for a toy building system, the toy building system comprising: a plurality of building elements including one or more function building elements each performing a respective function; one or more output construction elements each generating an output signal; and one or more control building elements each controlling one or more function building elements, each building element comprising at least one control connector for electrically connecting the building element with another building element via a respective connector of the other building element; each function building element comprising an input control connector for receiving a control signal and adapted to perform a function in response to receiving the control signal; and each output construction element comprises an output control connector outputting the output signal;

wherein each control construction element comprises a configurable connector adapted to selectively output a control signal for controlling the at least one function construction element and to receive an output signal from the at least one output construction element; and wherein the control building element comprises circuitry to detect at least the type of building element connected to the control building element via the configurable connector; and wherein the control building element is adapted to configure the configurable connector in response to the detected type.

According to yet another aspect, the present invention discloses an interface construction element for a toy construction system, the toy construction system comprising a plurality of releasably interconnectable construction elements, including one or more function construction elements each performing a respective function, each function construction element comprising a control connection in communication with one or more other construction elements of the toy construction system;

the interface construction element includes:

● first connection means for providing a data flow connection to the data processing system having computer program code stored therein, the computer program code adapted to, when executed by the data processing system, cause the data processing system to provide a programming environment for generating one or more logical commands for controlling one or more functional elements; and wherein said first connection mechanism is adapted to receive said logical command from said data processing system;

● a processing unit adapted to convert the logic command into a control signal for controlling a function of the at least one function building element; and

wherein the interface construction element is adapted to detect at least the presence of the function construction element releasably connected to the interface construction element; and sending information to the data processing system indicating at least the presence of the connected function building element, thereby enabling the computer program code to cause the data processing system to provide a suitable programming environment responsive to the received information relating to at least the presence of the connected function building element. When the function, output, sensor, control, and/or interface building elements described herein contain coupling mechanisms that releasably interconnect the building element with another building element, they are compatible with the toy building system and may be used with other building elements. The invention is generally applicable to toy building systems in which the building elements comprise coupling means for releasably interconnecting the building elements. Furthermore, when the connectors of the construction elements described herein are configured such that the input connector is connectable only with the output connector and the output connector is connectable only with the input connector, mechanical coding is provided that ensures correct wiring/connection of the connectors to avoid faults, short circuits, etc. For example, such mechanical coding may be provided by the form of the connector, the arrangement of contacts in the connector, the form of the contacts, providing an additional coupling mechanism, and the like.

It should be noted that the toy building set may comprise further types of building elements without the ability to perform or control actions/functions, like passive building elements without any electrical connectors, and like conventional building blocks known in the art.

The different aspects of the invention may be realized in different ways including the toy assembly described above and in the following and further production means, each yielding one or more of the benefits and advantages described in connection with at least one of the aspects described above, and each possessing one or more preferred embodiments corresponding to the preferred embodiments described in connection with at least one of the aspects described above and/or disclosed in the dependent claims. Moreover, it should be understood that embodiments described in connection with one aspect described herein may be equally applied to other aspects.

In particular, a method of providing a programming environment for programming a toy construction system as described herein is provided. Furthermore, a computer program product is provided comprising program code means adapted to, when executed on a data processing system, cause the data processing system to provide a programming environment adapted to: generating one or more logical commands for controlling one or more function building elements of a toy building system, the toy building system comprising a plurality of releasably interconnected building elements, including one or more function building elements each performing a respective function, each function building element comprising a control connection in communication with one or more other building elements of the toy building system;

● transmitting the generated logical commands to an interface construction element of the toy construction system;

● receiving from the interface construction element information indicative of at least the presence of a function construction element releasably connected to the interface construction element; and are

●, is adapted to respond to a programming environment receiving information regarding the presence of at least the connected function building elements.

The computer program product may be provided as a computer readable medium, such as a CD-ROM (compact disc read only memory), a DVD (digital versatile disc), an optical disc, a memory card, a flash memory, a magnetic memory device, a floppy disc, a hard disc, etc. In other embodiments, the computer program product may be downloaded over the Internet or other computer or communication network as a downloadable software package on, for example, a Web server.

The data processing system may comprise any suitable computer or other processing device, such as a PC, portable or handheld computer, PDA (personal digital assistant), smart phone, etc.

Here and hereinafter, the terms "processing mechanism" and "processing unit" are intended to encompass any circuitry and/or device suitable for performing the functions described herein. In particular, the above terms encompass general or special purpose programmable microprocessors, Digital Signal Processors (DSPs), Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Programmable Logic Arrays (PLAs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), application specific circuits, the like, or combinations thereof.

Thus, an assembly with function and control building elements interconnectable by a respective set of connectors according to a predetermined connection configuration is provided. The assembly allows a user to construct multiple functions and functional relationships in a uniform manner and with a limited set of different building elements. Furthermore, according to some embodiments, a user may control the built structure from the data processing system in an easy manner. The toy constructs described herein have proven to be very useful in educational terms, for example, when implementing a learning scenario of simple construction built from toy building elements, programmed and controlled from a computer.

Drawings

Figure 1 shows a prior art toy building block (brick).

Figure 2 schematically shows an example of a functional toy building brick.

Fig. 3 schematically shows an example of a sensor building element.

Fig. 4 and 5 show examples of sensor building elements.

Fig. 6 shows an example of an interface construction element.

Fig. 7 shows an exemplary configuration of the tilt sensor and proximity detector connected to the respective connectors of the interface brick.

Figure 8 shows a further example of a toy building block.

Fig. 9 shows a schematic block diagram of an example of a structure made up of a toy building system as described herein.

FIG. 10 shows an example of a user interface of a visual programming environment of a toy construction system as described herein.

FIG. 11 shows a schematic block diagram of an intelligent building element.

FIG. 12 illustrates a number of intelligent building elements connected to a control building element (e.g., an interface building element).

Detailed Description

Embodiments of the present invention are described primarily using toy building elements in the form of bricks. However, the invention may be applied to other forms of construction elements for use in toy assemblies.

Figure 1 shows examples of toy building blocks each with coupling studs on its top surface and cavities extending into the block from the bottom. The cavity contains a central tube and the coupling studs on the other brick can be received in the cavity in frictional engagement as disclosed in US 3005282. Figures 1a-b show perspective views of examples of such toy building blocks comprising a top side and a bottom side thereof. Fig. 1c and 1d show other such prior art assembly bricks. The assembled bricks shown in the remaining figures contain coupling means of this known type in the form of cooperating studs and cavities. However, other types of coupling mechanisms may be used.

Fig. 2 schematically shows an example of the function building element.

Fig. 2a schematically shows a function building element, generally designated 200, comprising a main function building element in the form of a function brick 201, and a stackable connector 202 connected with the function brick 201 via a flexible cable 203 comprising wires 212 and 213. The functional brick contains coupling studs 205 on its top surface and corresponding cavities (not explicitly shown) in its bottom surface. As described in more detail below, the function brick 201 includes a function device 204 that receives power via the terminals 210 of the stackable connector 202 and the wires 213 of the extension cables 203, and receives control signals via the terminals 211 of the stackable connector 202 and the wires 213 of the extension cables 203, the electronic function device 204 performing a preconfigured function, e.g., a mechanical or electronic function. In one embodiment, the control signals may each have binary values of 0 and 1, respectively.

Examples of preconfigured mechanical functions that the function building elements described herein may perform include the following movements/movements: such as by driving a rotating output shaft, winding up a string or chain that can pull an object in close proximity to the functional brick, moving a hinged portion of the functional brick (which can, for example, open or close the door) quickly or slowly, ejecting the object, etc. This mechanical movement may be driven by a motor as shown in fig. 2 b. Fig. 2b shows a wiring diagram of an example of the functional device 204, the functional device 204 comprising a motor 230 driven by received power via a wire 212. The motor 230 is controlled by the control circuit 231 in response to control signals C1, C2 received via the electrical line 213.

It will be appreciated that the motor may be driven by power from the electrical line 212, or directly by the control signals C1, C2 as shown in fig. 2C. The independent power supply via wire 212 allows for supply in such a way that the polarity of the voltage is constant and well defined.

Fig. 2C schematically shows a wiring diagram of another example of a functional device 204 comprising a motor 230 controlled and driven by control signals C1, C2. Thus, in this example, the functional device does not receive independent power via wire 212, as the control signal is sufficient to operate the motor.

Examples of preconfigured electronic functions that may be performed by the function building elements described herein include: operating a switch with accessible terminals; generating a visible light signal; emitting steady or flashing light; activating several light bulbs in a predetermined sequence; generating an electrical signal; generating a non-visible light signal; sounding an audible sound such as a beep, an alarm, a ringtone, a siren, a voice message, music, a synthetic sound, a natural or simulated sound that mimics or stimulates gaming activity; recording and playing back sound; emitting an inaudible sound like an ultrasonic wave; transmitting a radio frequency signal or an infrared signal or the like to be received by another component; or a combination of the above functions.

The function bricks may have preconfigured functions, but these functions may also be programmed by the user or otherwise determined or influenced by the user.

Fig. 2d schematically shows a wiring diagram of an example of a functional device 204 comprising a LED (light emitting diode) 234 controlled and driven by control signals C1, C2. Thus, in this example, the functional device does not receive independent power via wire 212, as the control signal is sufficient to operate the LEDs. Alternatively, the LEDs may be driven by power received via wires 212 and via switches controlled by control signals C1 and/or C2.

In fig. 2e, it is illustrated that the functional device 204 may be a switch 271. Switch 271 may be a normally open or normally closed switch and its terminal 272 may be connected to a coupling peg on the top surface or to a surface in the cavity for engagement with a coupling peg on another assembly tile. The switch is controlled by a control signal received via the wire 213 and via the logic circuit 231 as described above. When switch 271 is closed, the voltage on power line 212 is applied to terminal 272. Logic 231 further receives power from power line 212.

Fig. 2f illustrates that the function building element may be an intelligent building element comprising a microprocessor or other processing device/logic unit, e.g. a function device providing feedback like feedback about its operating state. In particular, fig. 2f illustrates a block diagram of an example of a functional device 204 comprising a motor 230 driven by received power via wires 212a, b. The motor 230 is controlled by the microprocessor 263 via the control circuit/motor driver 231 in response to control signals received via C1 and C2, referred to as 213. The functional device further comprises an encoder unit 264 or other device that measures the speed of the motor. The signal from the encoder 264 is returned to the microprocessor, which can translate the encoder signal into a signal indicative of the motor speed. The microprocessor, for example, outputs the determined speeds via C1 and C2 periodically or in response to respective request signals received via C1 and C2. The functional device of fig. 2f is thus an example of a motor brick comprising a speedometer function.

In general, the functional device may interpret the control signal in different ways. In one embodiment, control signals C1 and C2 may each have binary values of 0 and 1, respectively, represented by, for example, two voltage levels "high" and "low" or "on" and "off. For example, in the example of fig. 2c, the motor 230 may be controlled according to the following table:

control signal value motor control

(C1, C2) — (0, 0) motor off

(C1, C2) ═ 1, 0) motor forward on

(C1, C2) ═ 0, 1) motor reverse direction on

(C1, C2) ═ 1, 1 motor interrupt (break)

In another example where the functional device includes a sound generator configurable to play two different sounds, the functional device may be adapted to play a selected one of the sounds, respectively, in response to, for example, a rising edge (i.e., a transition from 0 to 1) of each of the control signals C1 and C2, respectively, e.g., as per

C10 → 1 Play Sound 1

C20 → 1 plays sound 2.

Thus, in general, the functional devices may comprise any suitable mechanical and/or electrical devices, arrangements or circuits adapted to perform one or more of the above or alternative functions. Examples of functional devices include light sources such as light bulbs or LEDs, sound generators, speakers, sound cards or other sound sources, motors, gears, hinges, spindles, signal generators, valves, pneumatic controllers, shape memory alloys, piezoelectric crystals, electromagnets, linear actuators, radios, displays, microprocessors, and the like.

The stackable connector element 202 includes both a male input connector 206 and a female output connector 207. The connectors are located on opposite sides of the connector elements so that the connector elements are stackable. In particular, in this example, the male input connector is located on the bottom side and the female output connector is located on the upper side of the stackable connector element. The input and output connectors include four contacts each referred to as 210, 211 and 208, 209, respectively. Contacts 210 that receive power are connected to respective output contacts 208 and to functional device 204 via wires 212. In general, it is preferable to mechanically encode the input and output connectors 206 and 207 so that the contacts always connect with the corresponding correct contacts of the corresponding other connector.

Such functional bricks can be easily exchanged within a toy structure assembled from the assembly bricks described herein, when all function building elements of the toy assembly comprise respective stackable connector elements providing and relaying control and power input in a uniform manner. For example, the functional brick comprising the light bulb may simply be replaced by a functional brick comprising a sound source or a loudspeaker without having to change any other part of the structure, since both functional bricks are activated in the same way.

It will also be appreciated that each building element may use one or more of its input contacts in the input connector. For example, as described herein, some function building elements may use only control signals, while other function building elements may use both power and control signals. It will also be appreciated that the connector elements may comprise further contacts, for example signal lines providing a communication bus between building elements comprising a microprocessor.

Fig. 3 schematically shows an example of a sensor building element.

Figures 3a-c show a first example of a sensor building element, generally designated 300, comprising a main sensor building element body in the form of a sensor brick 301, and an output connector 302 connected to the sensor brick 301 via a flexible cable 303. The sensor brick contains coupling studs 305 on its top surface and corresponding cavities (not explicitly shown) in its bottom surface. The sensor brick 301 comprises a sensor circuit 304 which receives power via terminals 310 of the connector 302 and wires 312a, b of the extension cable 303. The sensor circuit 304 further includes a sensor element 314 for receiving a sensor input, such as an external input.

In general, the sensor tiles described herein may include one or more sensor elements that are responsive to a physical event (e.g., an external physical event). Examples of such physical events include mechanical forces, pushing, pulling, rotating, human manipulation, touching, proximity of an object, electrical signals, radio frequency signals, optical signals, visible light signals, infrared signals, magnetic signals, temperature, humidity, radiation, and the like, and combinations thereof.

Fig. 3b shows the sensor brick 301 connected with a control building element 361 (e.g. an interface building element as described herein) via a configurable connector 362 of an input connector or control building element 361.

Fig. 3c schematically shows a more detailed block diagram of the sensor circuit 304 of the sensor building element. Sensor element 314 receives power from wires 312a, b and is connected to wire 313a, labeled C1, to provide an output signal. It should be appreciated that some sensing elements may not need to be connected to the power lines 312a, b. The sensor circuit further includes an ID resistor that connects ground (line 312b) to output line 313b labeled C2. In one embodiment, each type of sensor building element has a respective ID resistance value, thereby allowing the control building element 361 to measure the resistance of the resistor 315 and thus identify the type of sensor building element connected thereto. Alternatively, another type of identification circuit may be used. For example, the sensor construction element may provide a second sensor output that outputs the ID of the sensor.

Thus, the sensor brick 301 generates a sensor signal on C1 in response to the sensed physical event and feeds the sensor signal to the contacts 311 of the connector element 302 via the wires 313 of the extension cable 303. Connector element 302 is similar to the stackable connector elements described above in that male connector 306 has the same physical dimensions as the male connector of the stackable connector described above and contains input contacts 310 for power. However, the contact 311 of the male connector 306 is an output contact that outputs a signal, and the connector member 302 does not include any female output connector.

By providing the sensor building element with non-stackable connectors, a reliable identification of the sensor element via the ID resistor is ensured. In some embodiments, sensor elements with stackable connectors but without ID resistors or with more complex identification schemes may be provided. However, it has been demonstrated that providing a sensor building element with an ID resistor and non-stackable connectors provides a cost-effective solution that provides a high play value.

Fig. 3d illustrates that the sensor building element may be an intelligent building element comprising a microprocessor or other processing means/logic unit. In particular, fig. 3d illustrates a block diagram of an example of sensor circuit 304 including sensor element 314 and microprocessor 363. The microprocessor 363 and, optionally, the sensor element 314 receive power via the wires 212a, b. The microprocessor is further connected with C1 and C2, referred to as 213, via which the microprocessor can receive and/or send signals. For example, the microprocessor may receive configuration signals and/or requests for data via C1 and C2, such as ID data, sensor results, and the like. The sensor may then output the ID and/or sensor results via C1 and C2, e.g., upon receipt of a corresponding request or according to another suitable protocol.

Fig. 4 and 5 show examples of sensor building elements. In particular, fig. 4 shows a proximity detector comprising a sensor brick 401, a sensor 402 connected to the sensor brick 401 via a flexible cable 403, and a sensing element 414 in the form of a light emitting diode and a light sensor. Thus, when the LED illuminates a surface in proximity to the LED/light sensor pair, the light sensor detects light reflected by the surface. Fig. 5 shows a tilt sensor comprising a sensor tile 501, a connector 502 connected to the sensor tile 501 via a flexible cable 503, and a sensing element (not explicitly shown) arranged inside the tile 501 and adapted to detect the tilt of the tile 501 along one or two predetermined axes.

Fig. 6 shows an example of an interface construction element. In particular. Fig. 6a shows a perspective view of the interface building element, fig. 6b shows a block diagram of the power control circuitry of the interface building element, and fig. 6c shows a block diagram of the port configuration circuitry of the interface building element.

The interface building element, generally designated 600, comprises a main interface building element body in the form of an interface brick 601, and a USB connector 624 connected to the interface brick 601 via a flexible cable 623. The interface brick 601 contains coupling studs on its top surface and corresponding cavities (not explicitly shown) in its bottom surface.

The interface brick 601 includes two configurable female connectors 622 that selectively function as input and output connectors as described herein. The interface brick 601 includes a processing unit 628 or other control device labeled 636C 1 and 637 labeled C2 that feeds and outputs control signals to respective contacts of the connector 622. Control brick processing unit 628 is further adapted to communicate with a data processing system (not shown in fig. 6) via USB communication line 625 of USB connector 624.

The control brick 601 is further adapted to receive power from the data processing system via USB power lines 626 and 627 of a USB connector 624. Control brick 601 feeds the received power to respective output contacts 632 and 633 of connector 622, thereby providing power to one or more building elements connected to configurable connector 622 of the interface building element. The output power provided by the interface construction element 600 may be low voltage power suitable for the toy construction, for example, between 4.5V and 9V.

Configurable connectors 622 are similar to female connectors 207 of the function building elements described above, and each include a power contact and a control contact that receives and/or outputs a control signal. The configurable connector 622 is designed to mate with the male connectors of both the function building element and the sensor building element described above.

The interface brick 601 includes two configurable connectors 622, each providing power and outputting/receiving control signals. It should be understood that other embodiments of the interface brick may include a different number of connectors. The control signals fed to or received by the configurable connectors may be the same or different. Thus, the interface building element 601 may control two parallel function building elements or a stack of function building elements, or the interface building element may receive input signals from two sensor building elements, or it may receive input from a sensor building element via one connector and output control signals to control one or more function building elements via another connector. Thus, in a toy structure assembled with tiles as described herein, several function and/or sensor tiles may be used interchangeably, and a particular interface tile may be used in several configurations to receive input from the sensor tiles and to control the function tiles in a uniform manner.

Fig. 7 shows an exemplary configuration of the tilt sensor (tilt sensor)501 and proximity detector 401 connected to respective connectors of the interface brick 601.

Referring again to fig. 6, the power supply available via connector 622 can be driven entirely via USB wires 623, 624 by the computer (e.g., PC) to which the interface building element is connected, thereby avoiding the need for a battery, which reduces the price, size and complexity of the system.

The toy building system described herein is an open electronic assembly system in that a user can build an almost unlimited number of building combinations of building elements. Each combination may use a different amount of power.

To accommodate this build freedom, the interface build element 601 contains a power control circuit 629 that provides power management of the USB connection.

The USB specification provides a 5V power supply on a single wire from which the connected USB device can draw power. The specification specifies that no more than 5.25V and no less than 4.75V (5V ± 5%) are present between the positive and negative bus power lines. The device may draw power from the UBS connection in two power modes, and may suspend the USB device:

big power mode (maximum 500mA)

Small power mode (maximum 100mA)

Suspend mode (maximum 400 μ A).

Since the interface building element is open to the toy building system, it controls how much power is drawn and also ensures that no current is transmitted back over the USB connection. This may occur, for example, when an electric machine connected to the interface building element is brought by external forces to function as a generator.

To accommodate this, power control circuitry 629 is configured via processing unit 628 and USB communication interface 625 to the desired USB power mode. In subsequent operation, the power control circuit 629 monitors both the current I drawn from the USB power connection 626 and the voltage V at the output of the interface building element. The current I is measured as the voltage drop across the resistor 630. If the current I exceeds the current specified by the selected power mode, the power control circuit controls the current generation circuit 631 or another circuit that regulates the current I so as to limit the current drawn on the output 632, 633 of the interface construction element.

If the voltage V exceeds a prescribed limit (e.g., when the connected electric machine functions as a generator), the power control circuit completely blocks the power output via the output connectors 632, 633.

As described above, each configurable connector/port 622 enables the interface construction element 601 to receive sensor inputs and provide control outputs from the same port. To this end, the processing unit 628 includes an analog-to-digital (AD) converter 634 and an output driver circuit 635, both connected to contacts 636 labeled C1 and 637 labeled C2.

The interface building element reads the input using AD converters 634 on C1 and C2. An example of a building element from which the interface building element may read inputs is the sensor building element described above. The AD converter converts the received input into a digital signal that is forwarded to the computer via USB communication link 625.

Similarly, when the interface construction element receives a control logic command from a computer via the USB communication link 625, the output driver 635 converts the logic command into, for example, an appropriate control signal as described above, and outputs the generated control signal via the output terminals C1 and/or C2.

The configuration of the configurable port 622 is performed in accordance with logical commands received from the computer, which in turn is based on the detected type of connected building elements. When a certain building element is connected to one of the configurable ports of the interface building element, the interface building element detects the time when the module is connected/disconnected and identifies information about the type of module (e.g. motor, light, tilt sensor, etc.). The building element then sends information about the type of module to the computer via connection 625. In response to receiving the information, the computer may then send a logic command to the build element for controlling the build element to configure the configurable port, e.g., via one or more appropriate switches. In an alternative embodiment, the configuration of the configurable port may be performed by control circuitry included in the building element.

Connection/disconnection can be detected by measuring the impedance from C1 and C2 to ground. When one element is connected, the impedance drops. The type of element can be determined in different ways: for example, if the impedance between C1 and C2 is low, e.g., below a predetermined threshold, the connected element is determined to be a motor. In other cases, the impedance between the ID resistor, i.e., C2, and ground is measured, which value will give the type of element.

It will be appreciated that the toy building system may further comprise additional control building elements which are not connected to the data processing system but which are controlled autonomously. Such a control building element may comprise, for example, a suitable input mechanism, such as a user activated input mechanism (e.g., a button, switch, remote input sensor, etc.), or an input connector similar to that of the function building element described herein. In this case, the control building element may be powered from a battery pack integrated or separate from the control element, or from another suitable power source. Such an autonomous control building element may also contain one or more configurable connectors as described above with reference to the interface building element comprising a suitable control unit detecting connected elements and configuration ports. Such a control unit may be integrated in the processor of the device itself, for example.

Figure 8 shows a further example of a toy building element.

Each of fig. 8a-b shows an example of an electric machine module 201 as an example of a function building element. The motor module 201 includes an aperture 881 that receives a shaft to be rotated by the motor. The motor module further comprises a coupling mechanism 205 coupling the motor module with other building elements. The electric machine module further includes a stackable connector element 202 as described herein.

FIG. 8c illustrates an example of a stackable connector 802 used in the function, control and/or expansion building elements described herein. In particular, fig. 8c shows connector element 802, a flexible extension cable 803, and a female connector 807 of a stackable connector that includes contacts 808 to output power, contacts 809 to output control signals, and further contacts 882 to output additional signals, e.g., for distributed intelligence as a high speed communication line. The connector element further includes a coupling post 805 that easily and reliably connects the connector element with a male connector containing one or more corresponding cavities.

Fig. 9a shows a schematic view of an interface building element connected to a data processing system, a function building element and a sensor building element. Fig. 9b shows a block diagram of the structure of fig. 9 a. The interface construction element 601 is connected to a computer 940 by means of a UBS connection 623. A software application 941 providing a programming environment executed by the computer 940 may now read data from the interface construction element 623 and send control commands to the interface construction element 623. The interface building element 601 contains two I/O connectors 622a and 622b connecting another building element (e.g. a function, control or sensor building element) of the toy building system described herein. In the example of fig. 9a-b, the sensor building element 301 is shown connected to port 622b, while the function building element 201 is shown connected to port 622 a.

As described above, an application program 941 on computer 940 receives information about when an element is connected or disconnected to interface construction element 601 and what type of construction element is connected, for example, based on the impedance measured by the interface construction element. For example, the application may receive the above information upon request, periodically, or in another suitable manner. The type of construction element may be a function, control, or sensor element. In some embodiments, the type may be more finely defined, for example, by distinguishing between different sensor types, e.g., proximity sensors, sound sensors, tilt sensors, etc., and/or by distinguishing between different functional element types, e.g., motors, LED elements, sound generators, etc.

Using this information benefits programming application 941. The programming application 941 can now act in response to what is connected. For example, the configurable port of the interface building element may be configured as an input or output, enable/disable programming possibilities, and give context-dependent help, all based on knowledge of where and where what is connected. Such adaptability allows even relatively young children to experiment with programmable structures.

Fig. 9c shows a schematic diagram of another example of an interface building element connected to a data processing system and a number of building elements. In this example, interface construction element 601 is connected to computer 940 using UBS connection 623. The interface building element 601 contains two I/O connectors 622a and 622b connecting another building element (e.g. a function, control or sensor building element) of the toy building system described herein. In the example of fig. 9c, the sensor building element 301 is shown connected to port 622a, while a stack of building elements is shown connected to port 622 b.

The stack of building elements includes function bricks 201a-c and control bricks 901 via their respective stackable connector elements 202a-c and 902. Thus, the function brick 201a and control brick 901 are connected via their respective stackable connector elements in a first stack 990 from the interface brick 601, while the function bricks 201b and 201c are connected in a second stack 991 of the output connector 922 of the source self control brick 901. Thus, in this example, interface brick 601 provides power to all of the functional and control features in stack 990, as well as to the elements in stack 991 via control brick 901.

Control brick 901 includes a control device (not shown) that can receive control inputs from an external interface (not shown), e.g., buttons or other interfaces or sensors, and generate corresponding output control signals. Furthermore, the control brick 901 comprises a stackable connector element 902 comprising a male input connector and a female output connector. Male input connector 407 contains input contacts for power and output contacts to which the input contacts are connected. Thus, the control brick receives power via the stackable connector elements and the wires 902.

The control brick further contains a separate female output connector 922 that functions as the main output connector in that the control brick feeds its output control signals to the corresponding output contacts of connector 922. Control brick 901 further feeds the received power to the corresponding output contact of connector 922, thereby providing an uninterrupted power line through the system. The stand-alone output connector may be connected to tile 901 or integrated into tile 901, or may be mounted separately from tile 901, for example by extending a cable connecting it to tile 901.

Also, the stackable connector element 902 includes wiring between the control signal input contacts and the respective output contacts, thus providing a direct control signal from its input to output.

The control brick 901 then generates its output control signal in dependence on the input control signal AND/OR in dependence on an external input, e.g. by combining two control inputs, e.g. by implementing a logic function like an 'AND' function, an 'OR' function, AND an 'XOR' function, by using a change in the input control signal as a trigger event, etc. In general, the logic function may be a pre-configured logic function, however, the logic function may also be programmed by the user or otherwise determined or influenced by the user. In some embodiments, the control device may use the input control signal and/or the external input as a trigger event to trigger the output control signal or to trigger a control process that results in the output control signal. For example, the control device may have stored therein an executable program, the execution of which may be triggered by a predetermined input control signal and may result in an output control signal or a sequence of output control signals.

Thus, the control brick 901 controls the function bricks 201b and 201 c. Also, since the function brick 901 receives control signals from its stackable connector, the interface brick 601 controls both the function brick 201a and the function bricks 201b and 201 c. The later control of the function bricks 201b and 201c is done indirectly via the control brick 901 and in accordance with the specific logic functions implemented by the control brick 901.

It should be understood that the connector of the sensor brick may also be stacked on top of the stackable connector of the function brick, which in turn is connected to a control brick, such as an interface brick. The stacked build elements may affect the detection of the type of build element as a function of impedance. For example, the impedance of the motor is lower than that of other elements, and a light emitting function element connected, for example, stacked with the motor is detected as the motor. In another embodiment, control lines C1/C2 may be configured as communication lines, as described below, thereby allowing improved ID detection of stacked building elements.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a user interface of a visual programming environment to generate, manipulate, and execute programs written in a visual programming language for a toy construction system as described herein.

Figure 10a shows the initial window in a situation where no building element is connected to the interface building element. The user interface contains a number of menu bars 1001 that control program execution, file management, help functions, and other functions. The user interface further comprises a workspace 1003 where the user can arrange programming icons. The user may select an icon-like programming element from a color palette 1002 at the bottom of the screen. For example, a user may arrange icons on a palette through a drag and drop operation. Each icon represents a respective programming element, e.g., function, condition, program control element, etc.

FIG. 10b shows the window after the user has connected the motor to one of the ports of the interface building element connected to the computer executing the programming environment. In response to the connection of the motor, the application displays a motor icon 1004 in the upper left corner of the workspace. The icon indicates the type of connected element (the icon shows a wheel 1006) and its operating status. In this case, the motor icon includes a status bar 1005 indicating the speed at which the motor is rotating, while a displayed wheel 1006 indicates the direction of rotation.

Fig. 10c shows the window after the user has further connected the tilt sensor to the other ports of the interface construction element. In response to the connection of the tilt sensor, the application displays a tilt sensor icon 1007 in the upper left corner of the workspace, the icon 1007 indicating the type of connected element and its operating status. In this case, the icon displays a tilt sensor that is tilted in the detected direction.

FIG. 10d shows a window in which a user has arranged many program icons representing simple exemplary programs on the work area. The program includes a start icon 1008. When executed (e.g., by clicking on the start icon 1008), the program first causes the computer controlled motor to run Clockwise (CW) as shown by icon 1009. The program then waits (icon 1010 represents a wait loop) until the tilt sensor tips forward (icon 1014 represents a condition). When the tilt sensor is tilted forward, the program changes the direction of the motor to the counter clockwise direction (CCW) (icon 1011). Then, it waits until the tilt sensor tilts back (icons 1012 and 1015). This process is repeated (icon 1013) in an endless loop until, for example, the user terminates it by activating a control element in one of the menu bars 1001.

During program execution, the program checks what changes (presence, absence, type, operating state) have occurred to what is connected (e.g., by periodically requesting corresponding information from the interface building element), so that, for example, when an element is disconnected, the program can be aborted or the state of program execution can be visualized. In the example of fig. 10d, the icon 1010 is highlighted by a white frame. This represents the current position of program execution, i.e., the program is waiting for the tilt sensor to tilt forward. The upper left icon then indicates that the motor is operating at CW (icon 1006) and that the tilt sensor is tilted back (icon 1007), i.e., consistent with the state of program execution.

In general, some embodiments of the toy building system may comprise one or more different types of input/sensor building elements, for example, one or more of the following types of sensor building elements:

simple resistive sensors (e.g., sensor blocks that measure touch, temperature, magnetism, etc.): the ID of such a sensor can be detected using an ID resistor as described herein, and such a simple sensor does not require input power. An example of such a sensor building element is shown in fig. 3 c.

A sensor (e.g., photodetector) powered by the power supply: the ID of such a sensor may also be detected using an ID resistor as described herein. Examples of such sensor building elements are shown in fig. 3 a-c.

Sensor building elements (e.g., compass, color detector, etc.) with integrated logic and communication via C1/C2: such elements receive power and use control lines C1 and C2 to communicate with control building elements such as interface building elements. An example of such a sensor building element is shown in fig. 3 d.

Similarly, some embodiments of the toy building system may comprise one or more different types of output/function building elements, for example, one or more of the following types of function building elements:

simple output function building elements (e.g., motors, lights, etc.) powered via C1/C2: examples of such elements have been described in connection with fig. 2c and d.

Function building elements (e.g., sound tiles) with independent power and control (e.g., trigger) inputs: examples of such elements have been described in connection with fig. 2b and e.

Functional building elements (e.g., servos) with integrated logic and communication via C1/C2: examples of such elements have been described in connection with fig. 2 f.

FIG. 11 shows a schematic block diagram of an intelligent building element. The construction element 1101 may be, for example, a sensor construction element or a function construction element. The construction element 1101 includes a function/sensor element 1114 and a microprocessor 1163. The microprocessor 1163 and optionally the function/sensor elements 1114 receive power via wires 1112a, b. The microprocessor is further connected to C1 and C2, referred to as 1113, where the microprocessor can receive and/or send signals. For example, the microprocessor may receive configuration signals and/or requests for data via C1 and C2, such as ID data, sensor results, work feedback, and the like. The construction element may then output the ID and/or sensor results, feedback data, etc. via C1 and C2, e.g., upon receipt of a corresponding request or according to another suitable protocol.

Thus, a building element with integrated logic may implement a variety of sensor/actuator functions also with integrated control.

The building elements with integrated logic and communication use wires C1 and C2 as communication lines for interfacing control building elements like interface building elements with one or more sensor/input and/or function/output building elements. The processor in the construction element 1101 provides a communication interface. Thus, the other end of the protocol may be implemented in the control building element, in the interface building element, or in a data processing system via the interface building element. Each building element with integrated logic may have a unique network ID stored in, for example, on-chip memory. When the build element with integrated logic 1101 comprises a stackable connector element as described herein, each mother card on a control build element, such as an interface build element, provides a communication bus that can connect multiple sensor/input and/or function/output build elements as illustrated in fig. 12.

FIG. 12 illustrates a number of intelligent building elements connected to a control building element (e.g., an interface building element). In the example of fig. 12, three building elements 1204a-c with integrated logic are connected to the control building element 601 via a dual-wire bus 1265, the dual-wire bus 1265 being formed by stackable connectors (not explicitly shown) of the building elements 1204a-c connected to the control building element 601. It should be understood that a different number of the construction elements 1204 may be connected in the manner shown in fig. 12.

Although some embodiments have been described and shown in detail, the invention is not limited to these, but may be embodied in other ways within the scope of the subject matter defined in the following claims. In the device claim enumerating several means or units, several of these means or units may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware, e.g. a suitably programmed microprocessor or other processing unit. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims and described in different embodiments does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

It should be emphasized that the term "comprises/comprising" when used in this specification is taken to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

Claims

1. A toy construction system comprising:

a plurality of releasably interconnectable construction elements, including one or more function construction elements each performing a respective function, each function construction element including a control connection in communication with one or more other construction elements of the toy construction system;

a data processing system having stored therein computer program code adapted to, when executed by the data processing system, cause the data processing system to provide a programming environment for generating one or more logical commands for controlling one or more functional elements; and

an interface construction element comprising:

wherein the interface construction element is adapted to detect at least the presence of the function construction element releasably connected to the interface construction element; and sending information to the data processing system indicating at least the presence of the connected function building elements; and wherein the computer program code is adapted to cause the data processing system to provide a suitable programming environment in response to receiving information relating to the presence of at least the connected function building element.

2. A toy construction system according to claim 1, wherein the control connection means comprises at least one connector for electrically connecting the function construction element with another construction element of the toy construction system via a corresponding connector of the other construction element.

3. A toy construction system according to claim 2, wherein the at least one connector electrically connecting the function construction element with another construction element is a stackable connector element comprising input and output connectors of the function construction element.

4. A toy construction system according to claim 3, wherein the stackable connector element of each function construction element is adapted to receive control signals via the input connector of the stackable connector element and to feed the received control signals to the function construction element and the output connector of the stackable connector element so as to provide a direct control signal path from the input connector to the output connector.

5. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 3 through 4, wherein each construction element including a stackable connector includes a construction element body including an electrical circuit; and wherein the stackable connector element is electrically connected with the circuit via a flexible cable.

6. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 3 through 4, wherein each stackable connector element comprises: a first connection side of the input connector including the stackable connector element, and a second connection side opposite the first connection side, the second connection side including the output connector of the stackable connector element.

7. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein the second connection mechanism comprises at least one second connector for electrically connecting the interface construction element with another construction element of the toy construction system via a corresponding connector of the other construction element.

8. A toy construction system according to claim 7, wherein the second connection mechanism comprises two second connectors, each for electrically connecting the interface construction element with a respective other construction element of the toy construction system via a respective connector of the respective other construction element.

9. A toy construction system according to claim 8, wherein the at least one second connector is selectively operable as a data input and output connector.

10. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 8 through 9, wherein the interface construction element is further configured to supply electrical power via the at least one second connector.

11. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein the first connection means comprises a first connector for electrically connecting the interface construction element with the data processing system and for receiving the logic command from the data processing system.

12. A toy construction system according to claim 11, wherein the interface construction element is further configured to receive power from the data processing system via the first connector.

13. A toy construction system according to claim 12, wherein the interface construction element comprises a power control circuit for controlling the power output by the interface construction element.

14. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 12 through 13, wherein the first connection means comprises a universal serial bus connection.

15. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein the interface construction element comprises circuitry for detecting at least the presence and type of construction element connected to the interface construction element via the second connection means; wherein the interface construction element is adapted to send information indicative of the detected presence and type of construction element to the data processing system via the first connection mechanism; and wherein the computer program code is adapted to cause the data processing system to provide a suitable programming environment in response to receiving information relating to at least the presence and type of build element.

16. A toy construction system according to claim 15, wherein the circuitry for detecting at least the presence and type of a construction element comprises circuitry for detecting an electrical impedance of the construction element connected to the interface construction element via the second connection means.

17. A toy construction system according to claim 16, wherein the circuitry for detecting at least the presence and type of a construction element connected to the interface construction element is further adapted to detect an operational state of the connected construction element and to transmit information indicative of the detected operational state to the data processing system via the first connection means.

18. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein the plurality of construction elements further comprise one or more sensor construction elements, each comprising one or more input interfaces and/or sensors responsive to a physical event; and each comprising an output connection for communicating with one or more other building elements of the toy building system and outputting an output signal indicative of the detected physical event.

19. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein the adapted programming environment is configured to provide an indication to a user of the data processing system of at least one of the presence, type and operational status of at least one construction element connected to the interface construction element.

20. A toy construction system according to claim 19, wherein the suitable programming environment is configured to provide contextual help to a user of the data processing system in response to the presence of at least one construction element connected to the interface construction element.

21. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein the programming environment comprises a visual programming environment.

22. A toy construction system according to claim 21, wherein the visual programming environment comprises iconic elements that can be manipulated by a user according to a predetermined spatial grammar for program construction; and wherein the visual programming environment is adapted to condition at least a small group of iconic elements on the detected type of connected construction element.

23. A toy construction system according to claim 22, wherein the visual programming environment comprises iconic elements that can be manipulated by a user according to a predetermined spatial grammar for program construction; and wherein the visual programming environment is adapted to change the appearance of at least a small group of iconic elements in response to the detected operating state of the connected construction elements.

24. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein each function construction element is adapted to receive a control signal via the control connection of the function construction element and to perform a function in response to receiving the control signal.

25. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 3 through 4, wherein at least one output connector of a function construction element comprises a power contact adapted to provide output power for supplying power to one or more construction elements connected to the output connector; and wherein the input connector of each building element comprises a power contact adapted to receive power.

26. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 1 through 4, wherein each construction element includes coupling means for releasably interconnecting construction elements.

27. A toy construction system according to claim 26, wherein each connector comprises a coupling mechanism releasably interconnecting construction elements.

28. A toy construction system according to claim 27, wherein the coupling means comprises a projection and a cavity adapted to receive the projection in frictional engagement.

29. A toy construction product comprising:

an interface construction element comprising:

30. An interface construction element for a toy construction system, the toy construction system comprising a plurality of construction elements including one or more function construction elements each performing a respective function, each function construction element including at least one connector for electrically connecting the function construction element with another construction element of the toy construction system via a respective connector of the other construction element; the interface construction element includes:

31. An interface construction element according to claim 30, wherein the power control circuit is adapted to monitor at least one of a current received from the data processing system and a voltage output by the interface construction element, and to at least reduce the current output via the second connector if the monitored current or the monitored voltage exceeds a respective predetermined threshold.

32. An interface construction element according to claim 31, wherein the power control circuit is adapted to monitor the current received from the data processing system and the voltage output by the interface construction element, and to reduce the current output via the second connector and cut off the power output via the second connector if the monitored current exceeds a predetermined threshold.

33. An interface construction element according to any one of claims 30 through 32, wherein the power control circuit comprises a current generator.

34. An interface construction element according to any one of claims 30 through 32, wherein the interface construction element is adapted to detect at least the presence of the function construction element connected to the interface construction element; and sending information to the data processing system indicating at least the presence of the connected function building element.

35. An interface construction element according to any one of claims 30 through 32, comprising at least two second connectors, each for electrically connecting the interface construction element with a connector of at least one respective function construction element.

36. An interface construction element according to any one of claims 30 through 32, wherein the at least one second connector is selectively operable as a data input and output connector.

37. An interface construction element according to any one of claims 30 through 32, wherein the first connector is a universal serial bus connector.

38. An interface construction element according to any one of claims 30 through 32, wherein the interface construction element comprises circuitry to detect at least the presence and type of construction element connected to the interface construction element via the second connector; and wherein the interface construction element is adapted to send information indicative of the detected presence and type of construction element to the data processing system via the first connector.

39. An interface construction element according to claim 38, wherein the circuitry for detecting at least the presence and type of construction element comprises circuitry for detecting an electrical impedance of the construction element connected to the interface construction element via the second connector.

40. An interface construction element according to claim 39, wherein the circuitry for detecting at least the presence and type of a construction element connected to the interface construction element is further adapted to detect an operational state of the connected construction element and to transmit information indicative of the detected operational state to the data processing system via the first connector.

41. An interface construction element according to any one of claims 30 through 32, wherein the interface construction element is further adapted to receive a sensor signal from a sensor construction element of the toy construction system via the second connector, the sensor signal being indicative of a physical event detected by the sensor construction element.

42. An interface construction element according to any one of claims 30 through 32, comprising coupling means for releasably interconnecting the interface construction element with corresponding coupling means of one or more other construction elements of the toy construction system.

43. An interface construction element according to claim 42, wherein the second connector comprises a coupling mechanism for releasably interconnecting construction elements.

44. An interface construction element according to claim 43, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a projection and a cavity adapted to receive the projection in frictional engagement.

45. A toy construction system comprising an interface construction element according to any one of claims 30 through 44.

46. A toy construction system comprising:

● each control one or more control building elements of the one or more function building elements,

each function building element comprises at least one control connector for electrically connecting the function building element with another building element via a respective connector of the other building element;

wherein each function building element comprises an input control connector for receiving a control signal and is adapted to perform a function in response to receiving the control signal; wherein each output construction element comprises an output control connector outputting the output signal; and wherein each control construction element comprises a configurable connector adapted to selectively output a control signal for controlling at least one function construction element and to receive an output signal from the at least one output construction element; and wherein the control building element comprises circuitry to detect at least the type of building element connected to the control building element via the configurable connector; and wherein the control building element is adapted to configure the configurable connector in response to the detected type.

47. A toy construction system according to claim 46, wherein the circuitry for detecting at least the type of construction element comprises circuitry for detecting an electrical impedance of the construction element connected to the control construction element via the configurable connector.

48. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 46 through 47, wherein the at least one output construction element is a sensor construction element comprising one or more input interfaces/sensors responsive to physical events, and adapted to generate output signals indicative of detected physical events.

49. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 46 through 47, wherein the control construction element comprises two configurable connectors, each adapted to selectively output a control signal for controlling at least one function construction element and to receive an output signal from the at least one output construction element.

50. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 46 through 47, wherein the at least one control connector electrically connecting the function construction element with another construction element is a stackable connector element comprising input and output connectors of the function construction element.

51. A toy construction system according to claim 50, wherein the stackable connector element of each function construction element is adapted to receive a control signal via the input connector of the stackable connector element and to feed the received control signal to the function construction element and to the output connector of the stackable connector element so as to provide a direct control signal path from the input connector to the output connector.

52. A toy construction system according to claim 51, wherein each construction element including a stackable connector includes a construction element body including an electrical circuit; and wherein the stackable connector element is electrically connected with the circuit via a flexible cable.

53. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 51 through 52, wherein each stackable connector element comprises a first connection side including the input connector of the stackable connector element, and a second connection side opposite the first connection side, the second connection side comprising the output connector of the stackable connector element.

54. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 46, 47, 51 and 52, wherein the control construction element is further configured to be supplied with electrical power via the configurable connector.

55. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 46, 47, 51 and 52, wherein the function construction element comprises an output control connector comprising a power contact adapted to provide output power for supplying power to one or more construction elements connected to the output control connector; and wherein the input control connector of each building element comprises a power contact adapted to receive power.

56. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 46, 47, 51 and 52, wherein each construction element comprises coupling means for releasably interconnecting construction elements.

57. A toy construction system according to claim 56, wherein each connector comprises a coupling mechanism releasably interconnecting construction elements.

58. A toy construction system according to claim 57, wherein the coupling means comprises a projection and a cavity adapted to receive the projection in frictional engagement.

59. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 46, 47, 51 and 52, further comprising a data processing system having computer program code stored therein, the computer program code adapted to, when executed by the data processing system, cause the data processing system to provide a programming environment for generating one or more logical commands for controlling the one or more functional elements; and wherein the control building element is an interface building element comprising:

wherein the configurable connector of the interface construction element is adapted to output a control signal.

60. A toy construction system according to claim 59, wherein the interface construction element is adapted to at least detect the presence of the function construction element connected to the interface construction element; and sending information to the data processing system indicating at least the presence of the connected function building element; and wherein the computer program code is adapted to cause the data processing system to provide a suitable programming environment in response to receiving information relating to the presence of at least the connected function building element.

61. A toy construction system according to claim 59, wherein the first connection mechanism comprises a first connector for electrically connecting the interface construction element with the data processing system and for receiving the logic command from the data processing system.

62. A toy construction system according to claim 61, wherein the interface construction element is further configured to receive power from the data processing system via the first connector.

63. A toy construction system according to claim 62, wherein the interface construction element includes a power control circuit for controlling the power output by the interface construction element.

64. A toy construction system according to claim 63, wherein the power control circuit is adapted to monitor at least one of a current received from the data processing system and a voltage output by the interface control element, and to at least reduce the current output via the second connector of the interface construction element if the monitored current or the monitored voltage exceeds a respective predetermined threshold.

65. A toy construction system according to claim 64, wherein the power control circuit is adapted to monitor the current received from the data processing system and the voltage output by the interface control element and to reduce the current output via the second connector and to cut off the power output via the second connector if the monitored current exceeds a predetermined threshold.

66. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 63 through 65, wherein the power control circuit comprises a current generator.

67. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 61 through 65, wherein the first connection means comprises a universal serial bus connection.

68. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 60 through 65, wherein the interface construction element comprises circuitry for detecting at least the presence and type of construction element connected to the interface construction element via a second connection mechanism; wherein the interface construction element is adapted to send information indicative of the detected presence and type of construction element to the data processing system via the first connection mechanism; and wherein the computer program code is adapted to cause the data processing system to provide a suitable programming environment in response to receiving information relating to at least the presence and type of build element.

69. A toy construction system according to claim 68, wherein the circuitry for detecting at least the presence and type of a construction element connected to the interface construction element is further adapted to detect an operational state of the connected construction element and to transmit information indicative of the detected operational state to the data processing system via the first connection means.

70. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 60 through 65, wherein the adapted programming environment is configured to provide an indication to a user of the data processing system of at least one of the presence, type and operational status of at least one construction element connected to the interface construction element.

71. A toy construction system according to claim 70, wherein the suitable programming environment is configured to provide contextual help to a user of the data processing system in response to the presence of at least one construction element connected to the interface construction element.

72. A toy construction system according to any one of claims 60 through 65, 69 and 71, wherein the programming environment comprises a visual programming environment.

73. A toy construction system according to claim 72, wherein the visual programming environment comprises iconic elements that can be manipulated by a user according to a predetermined spatial grammar for program construction; and wherein the visual programming environment is adapted to condition at least a small group of iconic elements on the detected type of connected construction element.

74. A toy construction system according to claim 73, wherein the visual programming environment comprises iconic elements which can be manipulated by a user according to a predetermined spatial grammar for program construction; and wherein the visual programming environment is adapted to change the appearance of at least a small group of iconic elements in response to the detected operating state of the connected construction elements.

75. A control building element for a toy building system, the toy building system comprising: a plurality of building elements including one or more function building elements each performing a respective function; one or more output construction elements each generating an output signal; and one or more control building elements each controlling one or more function building elements, each building element comprising at least one control connector for electrically connecting the building element with another building element via a respective connector of the other building element; each function building element comprising an input control connector for receiving a control signal and adapted to perform a function in response to receiving the control signal; and each output construction element comprises an output control connector outputting the output signal;

76. An interface construction element for a toy construction system, the toy construction system comprising a plurality of releasably interconnectable construction elements, including one or more function construction elements each performing a respective function, each function construction element including a control connection in communication with one or more other construction elements of the toy construction system;

the interface construction element includes:

● first connection means for providing a data flow connection to a data processing system having computer program code stored therein, said computer program code adapted to, when executed by said data processing system, cause said data processing system to provide a programming environment for generating one or more logical commands for controlling one or more functional elements; and wherein said first connection mechanism is adapted to receive said logical command from said data processing system;

wherein the interface construction element is adapted to detect at least the presence of the function construction element releasably connected to the interface construction element; and sending information to the data processing system indicating at least the presence of the connected function building element, thereby enabling the computer program code to cause the data processing system to provide a suitable programming environment responsive to the received information relating to at least the presence of the connected function building element.

77. A computer program product comprising program code means adapted to, when executed on a data processing system, cause the data processing system to provide a programming environment adapted to:

● generating one or more logic commands for controlling one or more function building elements of a toy building system comprising a plurality of releasably interconnected building elements, including one or more function building elements each performing a respective function, each function building element including a control linkage in communication with one or more other building elements of the toy building system;