Multi-Angle Splice Plate for Building Toy Structures

The problem

Standard educational splice plates often confine users to flat, two-dimensional arrangements. While these surfaces may allow various accessories to be attached, they typically lack the structural provisions necessary to connect multiple panels at angles other than zero degrees. When a child attempts to build a three-dimensional object, such as a box or an architectural corner, the existing hardware fails to provide rigid right-angle joints or movable hinges. Furthermore, many conventional attachment points on flat panels use simple holes or uniform pegs that cannot securely grip objects with varying geometries, such as circular tokens or kidney-shaped parts. This forces users to rely on adhesive tape or separate bracket systems, which complicates the play experience and limits the intuitive expression of spatial ideas. The inability to transition seamlessly from a flat pattern to a solid structure restricts the developmental benefits of hand-eye coordination and proportion understanding.

The solution

The patented splice plate integrates a dual-function architecture that addresses both surface attachment and structural joining. First, the main body consists of a plurality of clamping units arranged uniformly in transverse and longitudinal directions. Each unit comprises four limit strips forming a square structure with inwardly extending limit protrusions at their middle ends. This specific geometry creates a first slot capable of gripping round articles through elastic deformation, while the spaces between adjacent units form second slots designed to clamp kidney-shaped articles. The cross-section of the limit strips utilizes an outward half-lip structure, ensuring that parts remain seated even when the panel is inverted.

Second, the edge of the splice plate incorporates a dedicated connecting groove. This groove is engineered to interface with three distinct types of connecting structures, all utilizing radial limit blocks that insert into the groove. For horizontal connections, an elongated member with two opposing blocks locks two panels side-by-side. For vertical structures, an L-shaped piece with perpendicular blocks and interlocking sleeves creates rigid ninety-degree corners. Finally, for movable assemblies, a third component uses a central shaft passing through a series of single-head connectors, allowing the connected panels to hinge along the axis of the shaft. This unified groove system means a single panel can serve as part of a flat wall, a cube, or a folding screen depending solely on the chosen connector.

Who it is for

• Educational toy manufacturers seeking to differentiate their product lines with 3D-capable modular systems that go beyond traditional flat boards.
• STEM curriculum developers requiring physical manipulatives that help students visualize geometric concepts like symmetry, volume, and angular relationships through hands-on construction.
• Home decor brands interested in creating customizable, wall-mounted organizational systems where panels can be linked horizontally or vertically to fit unique room dimensions.
• Retailers of interactive displays needing durable, reconfigurable base units that can support mixed-media attachments without permanent adhesives or complex tooling.

How it works

The main parts

Operating steps

1. Surface Attachment: To add accessories, align a round article with the first slot formed by the inward protrusions of a single clamping unit. Press it down; the half-lip strips flex outward to admit the object, then snap back to trap it. For kidney-shaped items, position them across the boundary between two adjacent units so the outer curves engage the second slots.
2. Horizontal Joining: Insert the radial limit blocks of the straight connector into the connecting grooves of two separate panels. Push the blocks fully home; the groove walls prevent lateral movement, securing the panels in a continuous flat plane.
3. Vertical Cornering: Take the L-shaped connector and insert its two perpendicular blocks into the grooves of two panels oriented at ninety degrees. The interlocking sleeve features on the connector body stack against each other, reinforcing the joint against shear forces.
4. Hinging Action: Thread the central shaft through the through-holes of multiple single-head connectors. Insert the free block of each connector into the respective panel grooves. The panels can now rotate freely around the shaft, enabling the creation of folding screens or adjustable stands.

Applications

Classroom Geometry Lessons

Teachers distribute kits to students to demonstrate how 2D grids transform into 3D solids. Students use the L-connectors to build cubes and pyramids, physically experiencing the relationship between face area and volume while practicing fine motor skills.

Interactive Museum Exhibits

Curators install large-scale versions of the panels to create tactile display bases. Visitors attach informational cards and small artifacts using the clamping units, while staff configure the layout using straight connectors to match the gallery walls or hinge connectors to create pop-out storyboards.

Modular Wall Organization

Homeowners mount the panels to drywall using screws through the positioning holes described in alternative embodiments. They link panels horizontally to cover wide areas or vertically to reach high shelves, using the clamping grid to hang keys, tools, or photos without damaging the surface.

Portable Trade Show Displays

Exhibition designers assemble lightweight partitions using the hinge mechanism. Panels fold flat for shipping and unfold into zigzag barriers on-site, with branding graphics clipped onto the surface using the universal clamping slots for easy replacement between events.

Where it is less suitable

• High-load industrial shelving: The plastic injection-molded construction and snap-fit joints are not rated for heavy weight-bearing applications compared to steel bolted frames.
• Outdoor weather exposure: Unless specifically formulated with UV stabilizers during manufacturing, standard materials may degrade under prolonged sunlight and rain.
• Fixed permanent installations: Users requiring non-reconfigurable structures may find the ease of disassembly unnecessary and prefer welded or glued solutions.