| 摘要 |
A group use toy structural construction set comprising various lengths of a straight resilient plastic tubes with slotted ends, large size tubular member resilient plastic hoops, three basic types of tubular member connectors, and an optional wheel hub. The three basic types of connectors are used for releasable interengagement of: (a) tubular member body-to-tube end; (b) tubular member body-to-tubular member body; and (c) tube end-to-tube end. Connectors use identical clutching elements and identical frictional fitted plugs, with clutching elements designed to grasp and frictionally hold tubular member bodies, and plugs designed to be fitted into slotted tube ends and frictionally hold therein. Tubes and hoops have same outside diameter for tubular bodies. Hoops have overall diameters ranging up to those of a "hula" hoop, or about 36 in. (90 cms). Some connectors are fixed type, and some pivotal type, with latter having angular latitude advantage over former. Optional wheel hub element for set permits assembly of mobile structures. Relatively large stationary and mobile structures can be assembled by groups up to 25 persons, indoors or outdoors, with size of structures measuring up to 4 yds (4 mts) high and 6 yds (6 mts) long. Set elements are simple, safe, lightweight, easy to use, and require no tools for assembly. Tubes and hoops are standard trade items and are readily available. Connectors are strong, durable, versatile, and can be made essentially of resilient plastic. Construction set with assemblies has high educational and entertainment value, and can be a valuable medium for encouragement of cooperative thought and work efforts when used by large groups. A booklet in schematic and photographic form showing various possible structures that can be assembled is to accompany set.
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