Molecular models
OwnerAndre Dreidinginventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A molecular model has a center made up from two relatively pivotal parts which are angularly movable between predetermined angular positions. The parts are relatively unstable when not in such angular positions. Atomic valency bonds in the form of elongate flexible members extend from the pivotal parts and have at their free ends couplings which engage another like coupling of another flexible member or another center part. The couplings are identical and each comprises both a projection and a socket or in one embodiment a magnet presenting at an end surface, both a North and a South pole.
Claims29
A structural element for forming stereochemical models of molecular bonds between mutivalent atoms, said structural element comprising:
- at least two connector arms representing the valences of at least one atom, at least two of said connector arms having each a free end portion provided with manually operable means for pairwise coaxial coupling and uncoupling of the arm to or from another connector arm of the same or of another said element;
- articulation means for pivotally connecting together at least two of the connector arms in such a manner as to permit variation of the angular relationship of at least one of the connector arms with respect to at least one other of the arms;
- biasing means associated with the articulation means for producing a discontinuous manually surmountable resistance against pivotal movement and therewith for providing at least two discrete and stable rest positions with predetermined angular relationships between the connector arms, depending on the natural behavior of the matter represented by structural element, thus avoiding unintended yet permitting intended movement from any selected rest position.
A structural element according to claim 29 wherein at least one of the connector arms comprises a flexible element which is normally rectilinear when unloaded.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.