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US 7,458,186 B2Granted
Dome-shaped structure
OwnerPhilip R. Carterinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
The invention provides an igloo-shaped structure formed from a plurality of rectangular shaped blocks having a rim and a trough molded therein. The rim has pins adjacent the corners of the blocks that engage apertures or holes fastening plates. Each fastening plate has four holes to enable it to snap together four blocks. Subsequent rows of blocks may have smaller dimensions so that the assembly curves inward forming the familiar domed shape of an igloo. Curved trapezoidal shaped blocks, also held together with fastening plates, are used to cap off the dome.
Claims12
An igloo-shaped structure for use as a toy or a portable shelter, comprising:
- a plurality of first rectangular blocks, each first rectangular block having a defined length and width, and having a rectangular shaped trough and a rim surrounding the trough, the rim having adjacent each corner of the first rectangular blocks a pin for engaging a fastening plate;
- and
- a plurality of second rectangular blocks, each second rectangular block having a defined length and width less than the length and width of the first rectangular blocks, a rectangular trough, and having a rim surrounding the trough, the rim having at adjacent each corner of the second rectangular blocks a pin for engaging a fastening plate;
- a plurality of curved trapezoidal top pieces to form a dome atop the igloo-shaped structure, each curved trapezoidal top piece including a 15 trapezoidal shaped trough, with a rim surrounding the trough, the rim having adjacent each corner of the curved trapezoidal top pieces a pin of engaging a fastening plate;
- and
- a plurality of fastening plates, each fastening plate having a substantially square shape and including an aperture in each of four corners of the fastening plate for capturing or engaging a pin on a rectangular block or a curved trapezoidal top piece;
- whereby the first and second rectangular pieces and the trapezoidal top pieces join together with the fastening plates to form an igloo-shaped structure.
4 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.