Kit including self-supporting panels for assembling a modular structure

摘要

Panels can join to form a structural module via slotting, abutment, and rotational symmetry. The slots allow for assembly without additional fastening. Modules can range in shape and size, while conforming to the interlocking configuration between the panels. Panels can be joined to form various structures with similar connective features. The panel's combinability via the slots makes possible many structural forms and re-configurable applications.

主权项

1. A kit (10) for building a structural shape comprising:
first and second planar panels, each panel having at least three sides, including a first side (14) having a straight edge with a first corner (16) and a second corner (18), a second side (20) connected to the first corner (16) and extending from the first side (14) at a first predetermined angle (22), and a third side (24) connected to the second corner (18) and extending from the first side (14) at a second predetermined angle (26); a first connector (28) integrally formed with the first side (14) and defining a first slot (30) between the first side (14) and the first connector (28) having a first blind end (32), with the first slot (30) substantially parallel to the first side (14), and the first slot (30) having the first blind end (32) facing away from the second corner (18) and the first connector (28) having a straight edge between the second corner (18) and an outer tip (28a) of the first connector (28); a second connector (34) integrally formed with the second side (20) defining a second slot (36) having a second blind end (38) between the second side (20) and the second connector (34), with the second slot (36) substantially parallel to the second side (20), and the second slot (36) having the second blind end (38) facing away from the first corner (16); a third connector (40) integrally formed with the third side (24) defining a third slot (42) having a third blind end (44) between the third side (24) and the third connector (40), with the third slot (42) substantially parallel to the third side (24), and the third slot (42) having the third blind end (44) facing toward the second corner (18); and each of the first slot (30), second slot (36) and third slot (42) slidably engageable with another planar panel.